By Jeanne Sorensen, Plains Network Services

Recently, a large number of computer users are reporting a screen popup message that claims the computer is infected and you need to call Microsoft immediately. You may be redirected to a web page that indeed looks like a Microsoft web page with a phone number to call.

DO NOT CALL THE NUMBER! This is not Microsoft you are dealing with. Instead, you will be talking to a criminal who is attempting to gain access to your computer, and your personal information

by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, ID Theft & Fraud Unit

Romance scams affect thousands of people every year, but many victims do not believe they are victims and continue sending money.  The average loss per person is about $9,000-$10,000 and some have lost as much as $500,000, have mortgaged homes, sold vehicles, pawned family heirlooms, and taken out loans to send money.

Following a few simple steps can help reduce your risk of being scammed by a con artist Casanova.

SECPA Cautions Customers About Billing Scheme

First Southeast Crops and Livestock Expo Held at Lamar Community College

Movie Review - Rings

By Chris Sorensen

Spring-like temperatures last week disappear for a few days before warm and sunny days return to Kiowa County.

Sunday will see a high in the mid-40s under mostly cloudy skies before falling to the mid-20s overnight.

By Slim Randles

In the week before Valentine’s Day, Marvin Pincus had two new customers for his (free of charge, of course) love advice and fly-tying consultation services. He tied up a midge for one client, a salmon streamer wrapped in lead for another, and wished them well. This was his busy time, of course. He knew another would come in mid-May, in desperate anticipation of June weddings.

“Marge,” he said, sipping coffee and looking out at the snow, “I think we need a vacation.”

by Pastor Rich Z

CORRECTION

“Whoever corrects a mocker brings on insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse.” Proverbs 9:7

Birthdays

February 13

Samantha Splitter

Tommy Haskell

Glenda Stoker

Jordynn Rhaelin Turcotte

Dale Back

Melinda Jane Smith

Mirana Keplar

Irene Harris

February 14

Chris Lindholm

Teri Nelson

Yonda Lynne Leonard

Max Owens Jr,

Noah Kliesen

Billy Jack Tate

Catherine Coffey

Vernon Harris

February 15

Jesse Togers

Kamden O’Neal

By Chris Sorensen

Area farmers, ranchers, and agriculture-related businesses filled the Lamar Community College Wellness Center for the Southeast Crops and Livestock Expo (SCALE) last week.

SCALE was a day-long expo providing continuing education for area ag producers.