President’s Message
As your incoming President, I look forward to working with our Board and Committee volunteers to help “untangle technology” for our members. I am not a Geek nor a power user but this stuff has become so woven into my daily routine that I sometimes need help navigating through or out of the rough waters. Now for some updates:
First Level Support
Year after year, our FLS team has been quickly responding to an average of 90+ calls a month to provide our members with the help needed to keep our digital lives connected and going. As we use our devices more and more for staying in touch with family, finances, interests as well as streaming for relaxation, FLS is here to offer you help.
Tap
While the total number of systems we have been providing to those youths that cannot afford computers has been down from previous years, we remain committed to helping keep those in need from falling behind a world that grows more reliant on technology.
Tours
Over the years, more than 1600 TVCUC members participated in the tours Bob Kutschera put together. In February, three tours are being offered – MasterCraft Boat Manufacturing, the Proton Therapy Center in Knoxville, and the Loudon County 911 Center. Please sign up through the Tellico Life website. I will guarantee you will enjoy each one.
Membership
If you have not renewed your membership, please go to Tellico Life and do so. TVCUC yearly paid membership runs from January 1 – December 31. We still have those who sign up or renew on or after October 1st membership for that current year and the next. This is easy to overlook and we will be sure to send out reminders during the October – December time frame for 2026. To join or renew click here: https://tvlife.memberclicks.net/tvcuc-membership
Security
Karen Brown, our MAC Special Interest Group (SIG) leader has provided the below link for distribution to the entire club. This information is critically useful to both Apple and Windows users.
Phishing attacks come into our email inboxes almost every day. Learn what they are, how they work and how to protect yourself. Learn how AI may be making phishing attacks even worse. Click here for the article: Phishing Attacks: How They Work and How To Protect Yourself
Volunteers Needed
We’re on the lookout for two volunteers from the general membership to serve as Trustees to provide financial oversight with the Treasurer. It’d be awesome if you had a background in finance or accounting, but it’s not a strict requirement. All you need is 4-6 hours (annually) of your time. This is a fantastic chance to get a closer look at how our club works. If you’re interested, just send an email to [email protected] with your contact info.
Looking Ahead in 2025
The end of Windows 10 support on October 14, 2025, will have several key impacts on PC users:
- Security Risks: PCs running Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates, leaving them vulnerable to malware and cyberattacks.
- Compatibility Issues: New software and hardware may not work with Windows 10, limiting functionality over time.
- Upgrade Options: Users with compatible hardware can upgrade to Windows 11 for free. Older PCs may need replacement.
- Offline Use: Some users may opt to keep Windows 10 PCs offline to avoid risks, but this limits functionality.
Members helping members,
Buddy Holt, President
Tellico Village Computer Users Club