Author: Matthew Kelly, MPTC Cybersecurity Program Instructor; Source: MPTC Today.

It is that time of year again, when the days get shorter, and our thoughts lead to holiday cheer with friends and family.  The other specter of the holiday season is shopping for gifts and with less time this year to shop, many individuals will turn to online shopping.  Whether that is Black Friday or Cyber Monday, people around the area will begin the hunt online.  Here are a few things to keep in mind as you shop this holiday.

1. Text and Email Scams

If you receive a text or email that states your package is being held and you need to click the link verify, don’t.  These are examples of phishing messages, if you are concerned do not click the link, but rather validate with the online store or carrier directly.

2. Fake QR Codes

Be aware of fake QR codes taking you to malicious websites, as consumers become more savvy in identifying phishing messages like those seen in the tip above, the next generation will use QR codes since it is more difficult to identify a malicious QR code visually.

3. Fake Digital Ads

Be aware of web and social media ads that click through to websites– these can sometimes be fake.  Always go to the website directly, you are in control of where you go online and should not be directed by an advertisement.

4. Fake Sites or Sellers

Many fake sites or sellers will use images from other sources to appear legitimate. This why even on Amazon or Etsy, you will see the same image used by multiple companies.

5. Website Validation

If you don’t trust a website, don’t shop there or at least check the validity of a website from reviews (like Trustpilot) and hallmarks of a business-like address and contact information.

6. Encrypted Website

Ensure that your browser is using an encrypted website, seen with a closed padlock and HTTPS at the start of the website’s address.

7. Credit Cards

Always use a credit card for online shopping.  They offer much greater fraud protection than a debit card.

 I hope these tips offer a safer online experience for everyone during the holidays.  Wishing you a safe and wonderful holiday season from the Moraine Park Technical College IT Departments.

About the author, Matthew Kelly, MPTC Cybersecurity Program Instructor:

Matthew Kelly is an experienced educator, IT leader and facilitator.  Energetic from holistic logic, he takes pride in providing the best education and solutions to the students, companies, and organizations he serves.  As an IT cybersecurity instructor with Moraine Park Technical College, he continues to utilize his over 25 years of education experience and over 35 years of IT experience working with many Fortune 500 organizations.  He has also served multiple years as a director and past president of the Wisconsin Technology Association (WTA).

Original Article: https://www.morainepark.edu/today/holiday-online-shopping-tips-from-cybersecurity-instructor/

James Simmers, our Culinary Arts Instructor, joined WLUK-TV FOX 11 to share some creative Thanksgiving desserts. He was joined in the kitchen by students Peter Pham and Jackson Bauer. A big thank you to Chef James and his students for showcasing the delicious Pumpkin Brulee and Pumpkin Custard recipes—check them out and give them a try! https://fox11online.com/good-day-wi/moraine-parks-culinary-students-spice-up-thanksgiving-with-pumpkin-brle-and-custards

James Simmers, Culinary Arts Instructor at Moraine Park Technical College

Community members are invited to explore the newly completed AIR Center on October 30 between 5pm and 7pm. Check out the outcomes of the 2022 referendum and learn about Moraine Park’s manufacturing programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and cutting-edge equipment. More: https://www.morainepark.edu/visit-us/open-house-fdl/

Automation, Innovation and Robotics (AIR) Center

In Wisconsin: register to vote, check your registration status, request absentee ballots, find your ward, district and polling place at www.myvote.wi.gov.

Are you voting early or on Election Day?

What's the word for someone from Fond Du Lac? I.e Wisconsinite, or Madisonian?

In 1962 a unique souvenir was purchased from Wisconsin Dells. It was a grey ceramic mug styled like a dragon with red stone jewel eyes and the playful inscription "My Ass Is Dragon (or draggin')' ' My dad left the quirky, beloved keepsake at Leon's Pub in Fond du Lac after his employment ended there. It was left on a shelf above the food prep area and inside this cherished mug was a class ring from Goodrich High - graduating year of 1961.

This mug has spurred my dad's own unique gifts with this play on words, and we are hoping to find one or both items. It may be a longshot but if anyone remembers seeing such a distinctive dragon mug or might have an idea of who to ask, we would be incredibly grateful for any information or leads. Feel free to share this info and help us bring this fun piece of history back home.

Thanks!

A 2.2-mile ruck march/walk (backpacks are optional) will occur on Saturday, April 20, 2024, around the Fondy Soccer Complex adjacent to Moraine Park's Fond du Lac campus. The walk begins in the B-1 parking lot just off Campus Drive, Fond du Lac, WI. Additionally, local mental providers and veteran support organizations will have information available.

A free lunch will follow the walk. This event is sponsored by Moraine Park Technical College's Veteran Affinity Group and Marian University.

More: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/22-no-more-7th-annual-veteran-suicide-awareness-walk-tickets-808259374547

Hello all - A few weeks ago, a bat entered our home through the attic cavity and was found in our basement. We just had someone come out and seal up entrances on the chimney, ventilation, and other areas on the roof. During this, they pulled us outside and explained that the roof is shot and is crumbling; the fiberglass is even visible. That said, we aren't sure what roofing companies in or near the area are reputable. Could anyone recommend a trustworthy roofing company near the area that will give us a fair price and does quality work?

the long and short of it is i'm showing my girlfriend a summer wisconsin weekend in june and we found a cool cabin in/near fond du lac for the weekend. i'm planning to bring her to a supper club for dinner one of the nights but figured the other i would show her a classic wisconsin bar for dinner/sports/darts/pool. you know, the classic scene. somewhat set in the woods, lodgy type spot, good food and spotted on tap, etc. anyone got a best rec? could be within a 20-30 min drive. cheers. she's from latin america so trying to give her the whole experience, etc.

Hi!!! Any suggestions on good tattoo removal services in the area?

Any fellow booklovers out there? Puzzle lovers? The AAUW sale is March 21-24th this year. They have a boatload of history this year. Lots of donations in general. Apparently people have been cleaning out the bookshelves, DVDs etc etc. This has been going on for over 50 years, so it surprises me that people might not have heard of it, or just not keep that date X'ed out from year to year, but if you didn't know it happens, now you do!
This and this have more info, but if you have any questions I can find out the answers!

Join us for College Preview Day for high school juniors & seniors on Wednesday, March 13, 2024.

- Tour Campus

- Visit Two Program Areas (Select Two in Advance)

- Connect with MPTC Staff and Students

- Win Prizes and more!

Sign up by March 6!

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My family is looking to go out this Thanksgiving instead of our traditional home cooked meal; just curious what will be open. For what it's worth, I personally err more towards healthier options and am not much of a super club fan, but I imagine there will not be a lot of choices so I welcome all suggestions. Thank you!

Long shot but here it goes - while my BIL was babysitting my kids while I attended my father's funeral (Aug 26), in fond du lac. While at Lakeside park, he placed our wagon in someone else's car thinking it was our car. This wagon wasn't necessarily cheap but has served our family well! It was definitely a crazy accident (the chances that a car that looks like ours was also unlocked and so he put it in there..and away that person drove with our wagon when they eventually got back to their car..crazy!). So hoping someone can help or maybe they have a family member who *crazily attained a nice wagon* while they enjoyed their time at Lakeside Park on Aug 26.. Appreciate the help!

Wagon: Radio Flyer 3 in 1 Off-Road EZ Fold Wagon with Canopy, Red Folding Wagon

Interested in technical education? Come see what Moraine Park has to offer at our Fond du Lac Open House, on October 4. Tour campus, check out our labs, speak with instructors and so much more.

Learn more about our event ➡️ morainepark.edu/discover

Calling all Fond du Lac area residents and visitors!

Do you use the local trails, bike lanes and/or sidewalks? If you answered “yes!” then we want to hear from you about walking and bicycling facilities.

Take the Bicycle and Pedestrian Survey and Add Information to the Interactive Map

https://ecwrpc.mysocialpinpoint.com/fond-du-lac-mpo-bike-ped-plan

❗️Survey Deadline: September 1, 2023

This survey data will be used as part of a bicycle and pedestrian plan in the Fond du Lac metropolitan planning area that will help us identify areas that need improvement, potential hazards, and ideas for creating more accessible and secure pathways.

Whether you're a cyclist, pedestrian or just care about our community's well-being, we need your valuable insights! Let's work together to promote active transportation and enhance the overall quality of life in the Fond du Lac area.

My gay sister is looking to move here, and she’s worried that people are super religious around here. What has been your experience?

If you are looking to jump-start a new career with free tuition AND a paid internship, all in one semester, it’s hard to beat this opportunity!

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Test Drive Day is Moraine Park’s premiere event for learning about our boot camps and a great first step to attending the next boot camp that starts this August.

If you are looking to jump-start a new career with free tuition AND a paid internship, all in one semester, it’s hard to beat this opportunity!

Learn more: https://www.morainepark.edu/academics/continuing-education/manufacturing-boot-camps/

Are there bird electric scooters in fond du lac? The Bird app isn't showing anything and I'm wondering if there are any around lakeside Park area? Thanks!!

It's been like that for decades.

I understand there's a patrol headquarters nearby, so maybe it's just a proximity thing?

But still, everyone has to slow way down there compared to other areas. What's up with that stretch of 41 always being so bad with enforcement?

Hello everyone!

I’m a genealogist & I am trained in discovering local Wisconsin family lineages and stories through vital records, census records, and newspapers.

This is the interest form I put together for anyone interested in learning more about their personal Wisconsin family history. I create family trees, ancestral maps, and historical road trip itineraries based on YOUR personal family history! It’s a great way to connect with your heritage and wonderful knowledge pass down to future generations.

LINK TO INTEREST FORM: Family History Interest Form

Here are some things you can discover from my research:

• Newspaper articles about your ancestors (Crime? Scandal? Who knows!)
• Custom ancestral mapping showing your approximate ethnic admixture
• Most common causes of death in your family history
• United States migration mapping showing how your ancestors migrated throughout the country
• Your great-great-great grandparents’ names
• Most popular professions and careers in your family history
• Photographs of your ancestors you have never seen before (Found in Newspaper archives, I have subscriptions to several newspaper websites)

I have a degree in Anthropology and have spent several years working for a professional genealogy company. I have been working as an individual genealogist for about 6 years. If you have any questions about my research, please fill out an interest form or email: heritagehuntersgenealogy@gmail.com

For those of you with ancestry outside of Wisconsin, please send me a message. I’d be happy to help you or direct you to a better suited genealogist. Thanks!

Ancestral Origins Map Example

https://preview.redd.it/x9tqbtq8bm3b1.png?width=962&format=png&auto=webp&s=023332f7dac7695f7409a7d5474b53a14f5b1ddd

USA Origins Map Example

https://preview.redd.it/fto5yr79bm3b1.png?width=973&format=png&auto=webp&s=69ecd9e4c47342bf1aaf42ea4cd6cb821c39be73

LINK TO INTEREST FORM: Family History Interest Form