It’s a new year with lots of things to see and do

Happy beginning of 2019. My greatest wish is for a blessed year for all and that I can remember to write 2019 on my checks and correspondence. 

 It’s that time to make resolutions or try something new for 2019.   

 TVCC in Ontario is reaching out to any prospective new students, young and old, who would like to take a class to “Try Out TVCC” this winter. 

 The classes for this program are tuition free.  Classes start Jan. 7 and the admissions office is open on Jan. 2 at 8 a.m. 

 Visit their webpage for more information or contact the office.  This would be a great way to try something new.  

 WPD Chief Carl Smith brought in information being circulated about a cybersecurity risk involving spyware placed on electronic devices.  

 These devices are often handed out as free promotional gifts and are referred to as thumb drives or flash drives.  The cyber attacks rely on the victim plugging the infected device into a personal or work computer, tablet, etc.  This automatic download of spyware potentially allows access to sensitive information and/or industrial controls.  

 The spyware is put out by representatives from other countries or hackers looking for personal or corporate information. 

 Be cautious of using any free electronic devices at anytime but particularly when acting in an official capacity.  

 “Vigilance and awareness are key,” according to the Idaho Criminal Intelligence Center.  

 “Handing out free electronic devices to visitors, guests, conference attendees, etc. is a common practice.  Attackers rely on a victim’s trust and a lack of awareness of these tactics to spread their spyware. 

 “Be wary of any free electronic devices from vendors that can be plugged into computers. Never assume a gifted device is safe to use; have a cyber expert scan the device’s firmware and memory. This is always true but particularly when traveling abroad.”

 The Weiser Fire Department was invited to provide a class at the new children’s museum in Meridian recently. They were able to talk to the kids about fire safety and good home practices. 

 The children’s museum moved into its new home in December and is a nice venue aimed at children ages 2-8.  

 “There are many hands-on, unstructured education experiences for the kids along with the adults in their lives,” according to their website. 

 I have enjoyed reading about the museum as it has been developing. Some of the fabrication for the exhibits was done by Chris and Sharolyn Scofield, our own Great Idaho Potato sculptors. Congratulations on another great project. Check out the children’s museum website and take your kids to enjoy the experience.

 Congratulations to Governor-elect Brad Little on his inauguration this week. Our new governor has close ties to our community through family. He was instrumental in getting the needed help for us during the snow event in 2017 and stayed in touch with us through the cleanup and flooding. I look forward to working with him this year.

 Happy 100th birthday to Elizabeth Cada. What a wonderful milestone. Hope your day was joyful.