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by Burton Kelso, The Tech Expert
You should know that protecting your social security numbers, bank account numbers, pins, credit cards, and passwords is key to stopping identity thieves and hackers. But have you attempted to keep your mobile number safe from prying eyes? Your telephone number is used to validate your identity to access your online accounts, and fraudsters are developing more sophisticated attacks to take advantage. Phone port fraud is the latest scam crooks are using to gain access to your personal information. Read on to find out how this works and how to keep yourself safe. What is phone porting fraud? Phone porting fraud is when your mobile phone number is ported to a new telecommunications provider without your consent. A phone port can be initiated with a criminal providing your name, mobile number, email, and your date of birth. If your phone number has been illegally ported, you lose mobile phone reception, access to network data, and the ability to call and text. The crook who illegally ported your number can now text, and make calls from your phone number and is the new owner of your number. This also means cyber thieves can log into your online accounts from which you setup two factor authentication and use your mobile phone number to reset your passwords for those accounts and take over those accounts. How do criminals know my personal information? Cybercrooks may have obtained your information in several different ways. You may have clicked a phishing link through an email or text message and entered sensitive information, or your emails may have been compromised. Cyberthieves may have accessed personal information you may have accessible on social media profiles. They may have also accessed your information via ‘social engineering’ through a phone call or messaging app. ‘Social engineering’ is the act of manipulating people to give up confidential or sensitive information. Crooks may have also located your information on the dark web from a variety of large data breaches in which your information may have been leaked. Signs You May be a victim of a port fraud. Your service is suddenly disconnected and showing ‘SOS only’. Unexpected texts from your provider advising that you have requested your number to be ported to another network. How to prevent phone porting. Stop giving out your mobile number to the public. Only share it with close family and friends. Setup a WhatsApp or Google Voice number to share with the public. Contact your phone provider and increase your security questions to unique answers only you would know. Remove your email, mobile number, and date of birth from your social media profiles as well as any other online profiles. Use two-step verifications to log into your email account and banking apps. Never click a link you receive via email or text message. Be aware of cold calls where a scammer will manipulate you to give up personal information such as your banking credentials, credit card, address, or date of birth. What do to if you suspect your phone has been ported. Contact your mobile phone provider immediately. Contact your financial institutions. Change your passwords to online banking, email, and social media accounts. Hopefully, this will give you tips to help you stay safe from phone porting scams. If you have any questions, please reach out. I'm always available. Want to ask me a tech question? Send it to [email protected]. I love technology. I've read all of the manuals and I'm serious about making technology fun and easy to use for everyone.
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by Addie Rainbolt, Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce Marketing Intern Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is an American Family Insurance agency in Grain Valley. Alyssa Scholl, agency owner, said American Family Insurance provides auto, home, business, health, and life insurance, so essentially “anything you need to protect.” Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is licensed in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Ohio, Scholl said, and has been open for three years. While Scholl was originally located in Independence, she said, “I wanted to move into a community that was growing and booming, and Grain Valley was the place to be.” Scholl said she grew up in Blue Springs and has enjoyed watching Grain Valley grow and prosper. Now that she is located in the heart of Grain Valley, Scholl said she has gotten to experience this growth firsthand. When deciding to move to Grain Valley, Scholl said she believed she “could leave a bigger impact in a smaller community” because small towns do not typically have very many local resources. Scholl hoped to become one of these local resources. Scholl said the biggest goal of moving Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC to Grain Valley was to get involved in the community. Scholl said Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is unique from other insurance providers because they have a small staff. A smaller staff allows Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC to be more personable with customers and involved in the community. Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC strives to provide excellent customer service, so each customer feels valued, Scholl said. “We’re not just an 1-800 number,” Scholl said; customers “are more than welcome to come in, we can go out to them, we’ll take phone calls,” or whatever is required to make them feel valued. “Because we are so small,” Scholl said, “we do know a lot of our customers” outside of the office setting. Moreover, Scholl said, “They know us, they know our life stories.” Getting to provide them with insurance simply allows Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC staff to further their friendships with customers and fellow community members. People are more than customers, Scholl said, “they are somebody that matters to us.” “I’ve always been one to help people in times of need and typically when people are calling us for insurance reasons, it’s not always a pleasant phone call,” Scholl said. So, Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC wants to be the calm in the storm for those customers. According to Scholl, most people do not typically think about their insurance until they need it; however, “when those catastrophes do strike, customers want to know that we’re here for them.” Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC. being local “gives people a sense of peace,” Scholl claimed. “We want to be sure we can provide that to customers when they do have something happen.” Additionally, because community involvement was Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC’s driving force of moving to Grain Valley, Scholl said they are intentional about their activity. Their recent community involvement includes sponsoring First Fridays, the Grain Valley Fair, and supporting activities at Grain Valley High School. Ultimately, Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is “really big on giving back” and “helping out,” Scholl said. Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is located at 115 SW Eagles Pkwy. Its operating hours are Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Website: https://www.amfam.com/agents/missouri/grain-valley/alyssa-scholl Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alyssaschollAMFAM by Phil Hanson, President & CEO, Truman Heartland Community Foundation
Philanthropy comes in many forms. Some people give back by donating their time and talents, others donate financially to causes close to their hearts, and some choose to do a little of both. Then, there are those extraordinary individuals who go above and beyond to make an even greater impact on the communities where they live, work, and serve. Among them are the Truman Heartland Community Foundation’s 2024 Citizens of the Year. From a visionary restaurant manager to a retired professional pilot, a diligent building inspector to a passionate community activist, the 2024 Citizens of the Year embody the true spirit of local philanthropy. Each year, local Mayors are asked to select someone from their city who exemplifies philanthropic excellence to be recognized at the foundation’s annual Toast to Our Towns Gala in September. This is the list of this year’s honorees: Blue Springs – Bobby Hines Selected by Mayor Chris Lievsay Bobby Hines has been the General Manager of Sandy's Restaurant in Blue Springs for more than a decade, but his contributions to the community go well beyond delicious home-style meals. Although the biscuits at Sandy’s are amazing, Bobby is best known for his thoughtful philanthropy. Bobby is the Founder of the You Matter Movement, providing a wide range of resources for those struggling with mental health, addiction, and homelessness. The Movement also promotes empathy among the public, working to erase the stigma associated with these issues. Bobby is deeply involved in various community-focused activities, such as serving on the National Night Out Committee and the Blue Springs Fall Fun Fest Committee. He volunteers for Life Sports and Girls on Fire, provides thousands of summer lunches for local youth, and educates high school students on issues around mental health. Grain Valley – Eddie Saffell Selected by Mayor Mike Todd Eddie Saffell's passion for serving his community has been unwavering for more than 40 years. His journey of service began in 1980 as a volunteer firefighter, braving the front lines to ensure the safety of his community. His commitment to public service only grew from there as he transitioned into the role of Deputy Chief at Central Jackson County Fire Protection District for more than 15 years. Eddie's impact expanded beyond his professional roles as he fervently devoted himself to improving his community. Eddie has served on the Grain Valley Board of Education for 12 years, six of which he spent as President. He’s been an active member of the Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce for six years, has served as a volunteer on the fair committee for seven years, and served as a valued member of THCF's Advisory Board for four years. Eddie’s selfless contributions have left an indelible mark, shaping the community for the better and inspiring others to follow in his footsteps. Independence – Alversia Pettigrew Selected by Mayor Rory Rowland The Neck Neighborhood in Independence has a rich history. Established in 1877, the vibrant community was demolished in the 1960s as part of Urban Renewal programs. However, the memory of its residents lives on in McCoy Park, thanks to the efforts of former residents like Alversia Pettigrew. Alversia has received many awards and accolades for her civic contributions over the years, including the prestigious DeVerne Lee Calloway Woman of the Year award for her contributions to equity and social justice, presented by the Women Legislators of Missouri. She's been an active member of the city's Rehabilitation and Housing Board, a supporter of organizations like Boys and Girls Club of Independence and Truman Heritage Habitat for Humanity, and has also volunteered as a historical reenactor at the National Frontier Trails Museum, showcasing her deep commitment to preserving her community's vibrant heritage. Lake Tapawingo – Robert Seago Selected by Mayor Tom Rodenberg Bob Seago served on active duty as a Navy Pilot and then spent 16 years in the naval reserves while also working as a pilot for Continental Airlines. In 2008, when he moved into the Lake Tapawingo community, he was promptly elected to the Board of Alderman, a position he still holds today. Regardless of the weather or time of year, including weekends and holidays, Bob is always on hand to help with any problem, working alongside employees in the field. Bob walks the talk. On a recent holiday weekend, Bob gave the water and sewer employees some much-needed time off. When an issue arose, he was the one out in the heat, working to fix it. Bob is a selfless, hardworking servant of the citizens of Lake Tapawingo, often working quietly behind the scenes to ensure Lake life is as good as it can be for everyone. Lee’s Summit – Dave Eames Selected by Mayor Bill Baird Dave Eames has been a resident of the Lee’s Summit community for more than 30 years. He is always eager to volunteer; whether it's serving on a task force or board, he is an enthusiastic ambassador for his city. Dave, a professional artist and owner of Fossil Forge, has been an essential part of Lee’s Summit’s downtown revitalization efforts, bringing art, color, and light to the city. His passion for creating and refurbishing historical signs and sculptures has transformed the downtown district in a really meaningful way. Dan has served as a former board president of Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street, is on the board of Lee’s Summit Creates, is a member of the Civic Roundtable, and is chairperson of the City’s new Cultural Commission. Dave has also previously served as an advisory board member for Lee’s Summit Education Foundation. Oak Grove – Ruth Ann Hafner Selected by Mayor Dana Webb Since March 2017, Ruth Ann Hafner has been an integral part of the community as a contributing writer for the city’s newspaper, Focus on Oak Grove. Her tenure began the day after the EF3 tornado wreaked havoc on the community. Ruth Ann's outstanding work on that story and many others has been recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious General Excellence Award in 2018. Not only does she share her culinary expertise through the weekly Skillet Lickin’ Good recipe column, but Ruth Ann also crafts feature stories that shine a spotlight on community, family, civic, school, and governmental news, depicting the events and people that truly shape her community. Her dedication to our community extends beyond her role as a writer, as she has served as Secretary of the Oak Grove Chamber of Commerce Board for seven years and is a current member of the Truman Heartland Community Foundation Advisory Board. Ruth Ann Hafner's commitment, passion, and talent will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the whole community. Raytown – Pat Ertz Selected by Mike McDonough Pat Ertz, a dedicated resident of Raytown since 1989, has been an influential figure in his community. Following a successful career with Hy-Vee, he transitioned to managing the Jackson County Public Water Supply District #2. Pat has selflessly contributed numerous hours to public service, serving on the Board of Aldermen for eight years and even fulfilling the role of Mayor Pro-Tem. Holding volunteer appointments on various committees, such as the Raytown Finance Committee, Recycling Committee, Legislative Committee, and Park Board Governance Committee, among several others, further demonstrates his commitment to public welfare. In addition to his public service, Pat is passionate He is passionate about giving back as a volunteer, sharing his time and talents with the Raytown Emergency Assistance Program (REAP), Raytown Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, Raytown Rotary, and the Raytown Education Foundation. Sugar Creek - John C. “Chuck” Mikulich (posthumous) Selected by Mayor Mike Larson Chuck Mikulich's unwavering dedication to the community of Sugar Creek is truly inspiring. From his early days as a lifeguard at the Sugar Creek Pool to his 39-year career at TWA, Chuck was always deeply committed to his community. As a long-standing Sugar Creek Alderman, he tirelessly sought feedback from residents, demonstrating his genuine desire to serve. He was actively involved in various community affairs and activities, including his role in organizing the Slavic Festival and co-founding the public service organization "Go, Sugar Creek." Chuck was also committed to uplifting the lives of others, as evidenced by his efforts in building wheelchair ramps, conducting home repairs, and assisting in property sales for low-income individuals and families. His selfless contributions extend to his involvement in various boards and committees, including service on a THCF Advisory Board, exemplifying his unwavering dedication to making his community a better place for all. Chuck's strength of character, work ethic, problem-solving skills, and tremendous sense of humor have left an indelible mark on the whole community, ensuring that he will be remembered for generations to come. In a world where kindness and giving back often go unrecognized, it is heartwarming to see individuals celebrated for their philanthropic accomplishments. Truman Heartland Community Foundation's annual Toast to Our Towns Gala serves as a reminder of the impact that these extraordinary individuals have on their communities. Their dedication and generosity set an example for others to follow, inspiring hope and positive change for a brighter future. Through their selfless actions, they have shown that everyone can make a difference, no matter how big or small, and their contributions will continue to leave a lasting legacy in the hearts of those they have touched. These Citizens will be honored at an exclusive reception held at the home of Dr. Nancy Newhouse and Dr. Paul McGraw, which is sponsored by University Health Lakewood Medical Center. For those wanting to join in celebrating these extraordinary individuals table sponsorships and tickets are still available at THCF.org/gala or by calling 816-836-8189. You can also join us to celebrate Doug and Helen Hatridge, who will be celebrated as the Heartland Humanitarians of the Year, Corporate Citizen of the Year: CommunityAmerica Credit Union, the Dr. Paul M. Thomson Professional Advisor of the Year Award will be Craig Bolger, and the Heartland Service Award will go to Child Abuse Prevention Association (CAPA). The Truman Heartland Community Foundation 2024 Toast to Our Towns Gala is proudly sponsored by Blue Ridge Bank & Trust Co. Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 14,700 jobs in June 2024, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by two-tenths of a percentage point. Private industry employment increased by 14,600 jobs and government employment increased by 100 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 95,700 jobs from June 2023 to June 2024, and the unemployment rate increased by seven-tenths of a percentage point, from 3 percent in June 2023 to 3.7 percent in June 2024.
EMPLOYMENT Missouri's nonfarm payroll employment was 3,072,300 in June 2024, up by 14,700 from the revised May 2024 figure. The May 2024 total was revised upward by 6,800 jobs from the preliminary estimate. Goods-producing industries decreased by 1,100 jobs over the month, with manufacturing decreasing by 1,000 jobs and mining, logging, and construction decreasing by 100 jobs. Private service-providing industries increased by 15,700 jobs between May 2024 and June 2024. Employment in private service-providing industries increased in private education and health services (7,400 jobs); leisure and hospitality (4,200 jobs); trade, transportation, and utilities (3,200 jobs); financial activities (800 jobs); and professional and business services (400 jobs). Employment decreased in other services (-200 jobs) and information (-100 jobs). Total government employment increased by 100 jobs over the month, with an increase in state government (700 jobs) and decreases in local (-500 jobs) and federal government (-100 jobs). Over the year, total payroll employment increased by 95,700 jobs from June 2023 to June 2024. The largest gain was in private education and health services (28,500 jobs); leisure and hospitality (21,400 jobs); trade, transportation, and utilities (11,300 jobs); mining, logging, and construction (10,300 jobs); financial activities (6,400 jobs); other services (4,200 jobs); manufacturing (2,300 jobs); and information (200 jobs). Employment decreased in professional and business services (-1,100 jobs). Government employment increased by 12,200 jobs over the year, with increases in local (5,500 jobs), state (5,400 jobs), and federal government (1,300 jobs). UNEMPLOYMENT Missouri's smoothed seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by two-tenths of a percentage point in June 2024, increasing to 3.7 percent from the revised May 2024 rate of 3.5 percent. The June 2024 rate was seven-tenths of a percentage point higher than the June 2023 rate. The estimated number of unemployed Missourians was 114,479 in June 2024, up by 5,099 from the revised May total of 109,380. The number of employed Missourians also increased in the month, growing by 4,351. The state's not-seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate increased in June 2024 by three-tenths of a percentage point to 4.2 percent from the May 2024 not-seasonally-adjusted rate of 3.9 percent. A year ago, the not-seasonally-adjusted rate was 3.2 percent. The corresponding not-seasonally-adjusted national rate for June 2024 was 4.3 percent. Missouri's labor force participation rate was 63.6 percent in June 2024, one point higher than the national rate of 62.6 percent. Missouri's employment-population ratio was 61.2 percent in June 2024, 1.1 percentage points higher than the national rate of 60.1 percent. Missouri's unemployment rate was 3.7 percent in June 2024, four-tenths of a percentage point lower than the national rate of 4.1 percent. Missouri's unemployment rate has been at or below the national rate for more than nine years. Sponsored content by Addie Rainbolt, Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce intern
Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley is prepared to serve and become part of the local agricultural community. Fairbank Equipment started in Wichita, Kansas, “as a supplier of propane equipment to the oilfield and agricultural industries,” according to the official Fairbank Equipment website. “Like a generational farmer who learns the lay of the land, [Fairbank Equipment has] grown and adapted over the years into the fertilizer application parts and equipment business we are today,” the official Fairbank Equipment website states. Justin Moore, branch manager of Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley, said this Fairbank Equipment location has only been open for less than three months. “We’re trying to get our name out there and let people know we’re here.” Moore said Fairbank Equipment services and sells applications and equipment for the agricultural world. From sprayers, inductors and fertilizer spreaders to nurse trailers, hydrous gas equipment and custom-made tanks, Moore said, no matter what you are looking for, “you should be able to walk in and get an answer.” Moore acknowledged that “the [agricultural] world is not a Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. world.” So, Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley is not held to this structure either. If a customer needs assistance outside of regular business hours, Moore stated, staff members will do whatever they can to help. Additionally, even if customers have an “off the wall” request or a service or product only they need to buy, Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley staff will still do whatever is necessary to get these customers what they need. Moore described Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley’s dedication to its customers; staff members will “do whatever is necessary to take care of the customer” and “listen to customer needs.” According to Moore, at least two staff members are always in the store to help find products and answer questions. This staff is experienced and knowledgeable, Moore said. “Our average tenure in the company is 17 years, so most of the [employees] here have been doing it for a long time.” Additionally, the official Fairbank Equipment website states the company has “over 75 years of industry expertise.” While the Grain Valley location mainly serves local farmers, they also ship products nationwide, Moore said. Fairbank Equipment has 14 stores in the United States, Moore said, so if customers need a product the Grain Valley location does not have, staff members can most likely order it from another location. The official Fairbank Equipment website states, “This network allows us to serve our customers across the entire country from any of our branches.” The Grain Valley location allows easy access for local farmers and easy access for quick shipping from the city, Moore said. Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley is set apart from competitors, Moore said, because it is “not tied up with corporate regulations and rules.” “We have a lot more autonomy to do what we need to do in the store to take care of [customers],” Moore said. Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley wants to be part of the community, not just a business in it, Moore said. So, they are purposefully and actively working to serve the community and become a staple in it. “Our business is one that relies a lot on relationships,” Moore said, and Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley looks forward to forming relationships with the local community as their business grows. Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley is located at 615 NW Valley Ridge Ct. Its normal operating hours are Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Website: https://www.fairbankequipment.com/our-locations/grain-valley-missouri/ Metropolitan Community College will host a ceremonial groundbreaking at 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 16, to kick off construction of the MCC-Longview Automotive Institute and a major overhaul of the campus’ cornerstone automotive program. The event will be held in the Education Center at MCC-Longview, 500 S.W. Longview Road, Lee’s Summit.
The $27.9 million project is expected to be completed by the start of the Fall 2025 semester. MCC-Longview President Ryan Crider said the facility will more than double the square footage for automotive programming, which will allow for expansion of the existing automotive technology and collision repair programs and make way for a brand new diesel technology program. The project will include renovation of the existing 28,000-square-foot automotive high-technology building and construction of an all new 39,000-square-foot Automotive Institute. Sheryl Farnan, Longview’s dean of instruction, said the new building will link the existing building to the center of campus, forever altering the footprint at Longview and allowing automotive students to be more engaged in activities on campus. “This will now become the crown jewel of our campus,” Farnan said. “When you park by the main entrance and turn up the main sidewalk, you will see this beautiful building front and center at the end of our campus.” “We’ve always had high caliber programs,” Crider said. “Now we’re going to have a facility that will be a worthy home for those programs.” Crider said adding the new diesel program will go a long way toward addressing a skills gap in the field, as there is an identified need for diesel mechanics in the region. “Employers have been asking for diesel for years,” Crider said. “We already have folks involved in diesel who are looking for ways to get in front of our existing students even before we had the program.” Industry partners and Longview’s automotive advisory board, which includes leaders from local shops and dealerships, were also involved in planning. Features of the ultramodern space will include:
“It will look like a showcase space,” Crider said. “Everything will be transparent. You will be able to look into the space from the bridge on the second floor, into the classrooms and labs. There will be glass dividers so you can see what’s going on in there.” Students completing the associate of applied science (A.A.S.) degree in automotive technology with medium- and heavy-duty truck emphasis will be ready to accept a position as an entry-level diesel mechanic when they graduate in two years or less. MCC-Longview’s automotive technology arsenal also includes numerous degree and certificate options in automotive service (including Ford ASSET and GM/ASEP) and collision repair. All MCC automotive curriculum is designed to ensure students are prepared to pass the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) exams at graduation. Lead architect for the project is DLR Group, and McCown Gordon is the general contractor. Funding came from both public and private resources and includes:
The public is invited to the event. Please RSVP by emailing [email protected] or calling 816.604.2144. Peer-to-peer (P2P) payment app usage has been on the rise over the past couple of years, especially with younger smartphone users. These apps let you send money to friends and family instantly for things like meals, shared bills, or even paying merchants who use these apps to collect money from customers.
If you're not familiar, peer-to-peer payment apps like Venmo, PayPal, and Cash App work differently than other forms of digital commerce. They are like using cash rather than a debit card. The great thing about these apps is they are easy to use and offer a good deal of security. Though these apps can be secure, this doesn't mean you can't fall into the clutches of a cyber crook. If you want to stay safe using these apps, follow these tips. You're probably familiar with credit or debit card fraud which means your card information is compromised, and a crook uses your card number to purchase goods or services without your consent. P2P payment scams work a little differently as they are focused on tricking you into sending money to someone you don't know. Credit card companies have sophisticated systems to detect fraud, and electronic payment processing for cards allows them time to stop fraud before the funds are transferred. However, money can be hard to recover on P2P apps because, most of the time, you agree to send the money. Here are some scams to watch out for: Impersonation. Scammers will call or text to trick you into believing they are your financial institution, the P2P platform, or some government agency like the police or IRS. A bank impersonator may report suspicious activity and ask you to send money to verify your account or test if your account is working correctly. Phishing. Phishing is a similar tactic to impersonation scams, but instead, the fraudster is trying to get you to share a verification code, your password, or other sensitive information. These communications usually have a time-sensitive element or say your account will be locked if you don’t respond. Unauthorized Money Transfers. This occurs when a criminal logs into your account and transfers money without your permission. They gain access to your account with your credentials they found on the dark web. Fake Product or Service. This scam involves selling you something from an online store where the seller asks you to transfer money for the purchase, and after you do, they disappear without providing that product or service. The ‘Accidental’ Transfer. This scam involves someone “accidentally” transferring you funds that were meant for someone else. Or you may be selling a product or service, and they overpay you by check or transfer. Then, the scammer will ask you to send the money back to them.Later, you will find the money transfer was from a stolen or fake account, or the check doesn’t clear To make sure you don't fall for scams, follow these tips to help keep your money and information safe from P2P scams. Transfer Funds to Your Bank Account Regularly. Many people who use P2P apps keep their money on these apps exclusively, but you need to use a traditional bank with these apps. Most payment apps do not provide the same protections as a bank account backed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. That means that if the app goes belly up, there’s no guarantee you can recover your funds. Choose the Most Restrictive Privacy and Security Settings for the app and your phone. If you use a payment app, make sure you set up two-factor authentication and public transaction sharing. Then, choose a unique password and opt to lock your phone after a short amount of time so if it gets stolen no one can get into the app. Make Sure the User Name and Password to Your App isn't on the dark web. Crooks still use a method called 'credential stuffing' to see if passwords you've used in the past work for your cash apps. Use a combination of 'Have I Been Pwned' and a password manager to check to see if your information is on the dark web. If you find your credentials, change your information immediately. Know Who You Are Sending Money To. It’s best to use P2P payment apps with people who you know personally. Do not send or accept payments from people you don’t know. Check and Double-Check the Details. When sending money through a P2P platform, a missed digit can be the difference between paying your friend and sending money to a stranger, never to be seen again. So, double-check the phone number, account number, email, and other information, especially if you are sending money to a new recipient. Hopefully, this will give you tips to help you stay safe when using a P2P Payment app. These apps have a good deal of security, but make sure you are taking additional steps to keep your account safe. If you have any questions, If you have any questions, please reach out. I'm always available. Want to ask me a tech question? Send it to [email protected]. I love technology. I've read all of the manuals and I'm serious about making technology fun and easy to use for everyone. Need computer repair service near you? My company Integral offers the highest quality computer repair service nationwide. If you need on-site or remote tech support for your Windows\Macintosh, computers, laptops, Android/Apple smartphone, tablets, printers, routers, smart home devices, and anything that connects to the Internet, please feel free to contact my team. Our team of friendly tech experts organization can help you with any IT needs you might have. Reach out to us a www.callintegralnow.com or phone at 888.256.0829. The above content is provided for information purposes only. All information included therein is subject to change without notice. I am not responsible for any direct or indirect damages, arising from or related to the use of or reliance on the above content. ![]() by Addie Rainbolt, intern, Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce Mindful Evolutions has brought the trending art of Pilates to Grain Valley, MO, allowing its citizens to experience this fun way to exercise alongside fellow community members. Christy Cater, owner of Mindful Evolutions, said Pilates is a unique way to move your body that is beneficial for everyone, regardless of age or skill level. Nevertheless, beginning a new fitness journey may be intimidating, so Cater offers her expertise to guide clients through this journey. Because many people do not know what Pilates is, Cater tells beginners that some of the moves are similar to those involved in gymnastics and martial arts. “Pilates targets the core and spine,” Cater added, which supports overall body strength. Cater quoted a common saying that after one Pilates session, you feel a change and after ten Pilates sessions, you see a change. While this may not be accurate for all clients, Cater said that after one Pilates session, clients begin to carry themselves differently because they feel muscles working that they did not even know they had. People who practice Pilates “train our body to work the small muscles that support the big ones,” Cater said. In other words, people who practice Pilates are creating a support system within their bodies. This support system makes even the little, daily tasks easier, Cater explained. Noticing these daily tasks getting easier “makes [people] feel like they're turning back time,” Cater said. At Mindful Evolutions, each new client begins with two 55-minute introductory solo sessions for $98 total, Cater said.. These introductory sessions allow clients to get familiar and comfortable with Pilates while allowing Cater to see what each client needs physically and mentally on their Pilates journey. According to Cater, after these two introductory sessions, clients can either continue with solo sessions for $90 per session or join a group session for $28 per session. Duet sessions are also available; two duet sessions cost $84 for each client. All sessions are 55 minutes long. Clients have a 12-hour cancellation window. Group sessions are capped at six people, so Cater can maintain an intimate and personalized Pilates experience for each client. This small class size allows clients to “feel like they matter,” Cater said. This intimate Pilates experience also sets Mindful Evolutions apart from other Pilates studios or gyms, Cater said, because she intentionally prioritizes each individual’s story. Through this story, Cater is guiding, supporting and keeping her clients accountable. Cater likes to begin every class with a transitional stretch sequence to get her clients’ minds in the right place, ready to move their bodies intentionally and further their physical and mental fitness. Cater said she enjoys being “an impactful piece of the healing journey for people of all different ages through Pilates.” “Whether you are 18 or 80,” Cater said, Pilates is beneficial because it targets form, breath and core connection. Cater recalled her own discovery of Pilates, “When I found Pilates, there were women that were twice my age doing things I couldn't do.” Cater said she not only wanted to be able to do those things, but she also enjoyed the “quiet and intimate” nature of Pilates. After practicing Pilates, “I started to see my core change and I started to feel stronger,” Cater said. “I just fell in love with it.” Considering her own story, Cater said she strives to lead Pilates sessions that she would want to take. Cater also recollected one of her clients saying, “this is not exercise, this is fun.” Pilates “is hard and you do sweat; you do get sore,” Cater said, “but it's just a different way of moving and it is fun.” Mindful Evolutions is located at 117 SW Eagles Pkwy in Grain Valley. Hours are by appointment. Website: https://mindfulevolutions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mindfulevolutionspilates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindfulevolutions/ Photos: Addie Rainbolt
Q. Why don't charitable vehicles like to drive?
A. They prefer to stay parked and thrive. Charitable vehicles. I’m not talking about donating old cars or trucks to charity. I’m talking about the kinds of charitable vehicles that can help you donate to charity and potentially save money on your taxes. Just like cars, there are a wide variety of makes and models of charitable vehicles to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits. Choosing the right one depends on your personal circumstances, financial goals, and philanthropic interests, but here is a short list of popular options. Donor Advised Funds (DAFs): These funds are like having your own personal charitable savings accounts. Donors contribute to their fund, enjoy tax benefits for the contribution, and can recommend grants to their favorite charities and causes over time. Charitable Trusts: These are legal arrangements that allow individuals to set aside their present and future assets for charitable purposes while retaining both a current income stream and other benefits. There are different types of charitable trusts, including charitable remainder trusts and charitable lead trusts. Private Family Foundations: Private Foundations are independent legal entities usually set up by an individual family to support their charitable activities. This vehicle offers donors a great deal of administrative responsibility and control over how their charitable dollars are distributed. Scholarship Funds: These funds are often created in memory or honor of a loved one. Donors who are passionate about education have the opportunity to design their own eligibility criteria and requirements and choose how much they want to participate in the student selection process. Beneficiary Designations: You can easily make any eligible nonprofit a beneficiary of your IRA by simply updating your beneficiary form. You can name your favorite charitable organization or even your DAF to receive a specific percentage of your retirement account. Retirement funds given to your heirs will be taxed as ordinary income, which is why these types of assets are some of the best to donate to charity. Bequests: Specific language can easily be added to will or trust documents instructing a gift to charity from your estate upon death. Bequests are one of the easiest ways to leave a legacy. And bequests can be made to one or several entities, specified by a specific dollar amount or percentage of the donor's estate. Once you have decided on the right vehicle for you, you need to find it a new home where it can be kept safe and secure. There are lots of options out there for you, and you should consult with your professional financial advisor or attorney to find the best parking spot for your charitable plan. Just remember that your local community foundation is here for you with a knowledgeable staff that is ready to provide professional guidance, administrative support, investment management, and more. We are dedicated to helping your charitable vehicle operate smoothly and efficiently, supporting your philanthropic efforts for generations to come. Local business leaders with the Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce gathered with staff and volunteers from the Good People Cafe on Wednesday, June 5th to celebrate the recent opening of the cafe at 101 SW Eagles Parkway with a ribbon cutting. Pastor Mike Cassidy from Faith United Methodist Church welcomed the group and spoke about the long journey the leadership and staff of the Cafe have taken to get the doors open. The Cafe is an outreach of Faith United Methodist Church, and Cassidy referred to this foundational support explaining Good People Cafe "stands on Faith". Good People Cafe's mission is to create a place, a passion, and a purpose for all people through a café atmosphere that intentionally employs members of the local disability community, provides a safe hangout spot for local teens, and houses a new worship alternative to the traditional church. The Good People Cafe is open 6:00am - 5:00pm; the dining room is open 6:00am - 2:00pm, with a variety of to-go items available after the dining room closes. For more information on the Cafe, visit Good People Cafe - Grain Valley, MO. Good People Cafe staff and volunteers and local business leaders joined Wednesday morning to celebrate the opening of the cafe with a ribbon cutting hosted by the Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce. Photo credit: Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce
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