Submitted by:
Rebecca R. Molus MC10
Alarm Coordinator
Maricopa Police Department

Snoop Proof Your Computer

Your PC is ready and willing to reveal what you’ve been up to. Give nosy types just a few hours to dig around, and they can unearth plenty: incoming and outgoing mail you’ve deleted, Internet sites you’ve visited, search criteria and data you’ve entered on web forms, even phrases you’ve included in a document (then thought better of and deleted). Fortunately, you can protect yourself with a few insider tricks. Here’s how to keep your personal PC information hidden.

Take out your recycling

Get rid of files you think you’ve already nixed from your system. We’re talking about all the trash you banished to your Recycle Bin. Sure, you can empty it out whenever you remember, but a better way is to turn off the Recycle Bin. To truly delete your files the first time around, right click on the Recycle Bin and choose Properties, then Global. Check the box called “Do not move files to the Recycle Bin. Remove files immediately on delete.”

Clean up and lock down

Even if snoops can’t view your documents directly, they can get an idea of what you’ve been doing by scanning your list of recently used files in the Microsoft Word or Excel File menu. This temporary menu lists even files you’ve recently deleted, so it’s best to turn off the option. In Word or Excel, select Tools>Options, then General. Uncheck the box labeled Recently Used File List.

Next, cover the tracks of your current documents. Pop up the Start menu and select Documents. It shows a list of the last 15 or so files you had open, making it too easy for someone to browse through your work or personal files without even searching your hard drive. To hide your work, clear the menu by clicking on the Start>Control Panel>Task Bar and Start Menu. Then click on the Start Menu tab, click Customize, and then click the Clear List button.

Now it’s time to clean out your temp files. Word and other applications usually save temporary copies of your work in progress to guard against system crashes. Many applications also save text you’ve deleted, moved, or copies, even if you haven’t saved the file you’re working on. Get rid of those bits by routinely deleting the temporary files that each application saves in the WINDOWS/TEMP folder. Also, be sure to delete all files within its subdirectories, such as those labeled FAX and WORDXX. Many of the files have extensions such as TMP, but they are actually complete versions of DOC, HTML, or even image files.

Passwords protect

New computers with Windows XP usually provide some basic security. You can make your computer completely inaccessible while you’re away from it by setting a password in Windows XP.
In the Control Panel, click on Users.
Click on Create a New Account, and follow the prompts to create a user identity and password for yourself.
You will now need to know the password in order to log into the system.
You can also add a password to your screensaver:
In the Control Panel, click on Display.
Click on the Screen Saver tab.
After selecting a screen saver, check the box next to On resume, password protected.
Click the Change button to set the password, and then click OK.

Now, when your screen saver runs, only someone who knows the password will be able to reactivate the computer.
You can also add password protection to specific files using such programs as Word and Excel. With the program, click Save As and then select the Options button to set the password option for each file.

The best passwords aren’t real words or dates. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and punctuation for a password that’s hard to guess. You’ll have to type your password each time you open and save the document.
Learn more about choosing and protecting your passwords.

Caught in your own web

Browsers (i.e., Netscape Navigator, Microsoft Internet Explorer, even AOL) keep a record of every web address you type into your browser. To see this for yourself, just enter a URL (website address) in the location window below the toolbar; the browsers record the URL in the drop-down menu until other entries replace it. Here’s a way to visit a site undetected: In either browser, press Ctrl-O to bring up a dialog box, then type the URL into it.

Your browser is the next area to safeguard. Both Internet Explorer and Navigator keep lists of all the places you’ve been, including the specific pages you’ve visited, searches you’ve done, and data you’ve entered.
To view your web history in Navigator, press Ctrl-H; to delete Navigator’s history items, highlight the desired items and press the “Del” key, or delete them all at once by choosing Select All on the Edit menu and then pressing the “Del” key.
To view your web history in Internet Explorer, choose View>Explorer Bar>History. Internet Explorer stores your web history in weekly folders or by website. You can delete individual URLs, but the quickest way is to delete entire folders. To clear out your whole history, select Edit>Internet Options or Tools>Internet Options, choose the General Tab, and click on the Clear History button.

You should also clean out your cache. Both Internet Explorer and Navigator keep caches of recently visited web pages on your hard drive. This speeds up web access when you revisit the pages, but it also leaves you open to snoops.
To clear your cache in Navigator, choose Preferences from the Edit menu, click on the “+” sign next to the Advanced selection, and then click on Cache. Now click on the button labeled Clear Disk Cache. In Internet Explorer, select Internet Options from the View menu and click on the General tab. Click on the button labeled Delete Files.

You can also set your browser so that it doesn’t use a cache at all. (Yes, this slows surfing.) In Navigator, select Edit>Preferences>Advanced. Click on Cache and set the Disk Cache box to 0. In Internet Explorer, select View>General>Settings. Then move the slider all the way to the left.

If you connect to the Internet via DSL or cable modem, your high-speed connection makes a tempting target for hackers as you are “on line” at all times. For this reason you should have a good firewall program installed. Personal firewalls protect your computer system from external attack and provide warning of nefarious activity. A computer using a national broadband provider receives an amazing number of scans on a daily basis. Once you install a personal firewall, you can see what kind of scans your system gets. Even if you run a personal firewall, never share your drive or folders with other users on the Internet.

Gone Wireless?

If you are a user of the new wireless Internet connection, your neighbors several houses away may be able to see what you are doing on your computer. Encryption programs can keep hackers out. They come with your wireless unit, so take an extra 5 minutes to load the program and use it.
If you have a home network there are a few simple things you can do to reduce the likelihood that someone will snoop your data:
1. Don’t call attention to yourself. Turn off the broadcast SSID function.
2. Change your name. Don’t make your network name obvious; change the default name and then change it every
few months.
3. Scramble your data. Use an encryption tool (i.e. WEP – Wired Equivalent Privacy).
4. Telecommute through a tunnel. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) which creates a “tunnel” between your laptop and
your office only. The tunnel is fortified with better encryption than WEP. All versions of Windows XP include the desktop
software required to connect a VPN.

Other suggestions:

Don’t store credit card information or online bank account information on your computer.
Use Anti-virus software.
Turn off file-sharing.
Scan for spyware with software such as “Spybot Search & Destroy” which can be downloaded for free from the
Internet. Do a search on “spybot software.”
Change passwords frequently.

3 STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO HELP BRING
QUALITY JOBS TO ARIZONA

1. Communicate with your legislators.
Personal emails, letters and phone calls are
very effective. Legislators appreciate hearing
from their constituents. Let them know why
you want quality jobs in renewable energy for
Arizona. Find legislators’ contact info here.

2. Submit letters and opinion editorials
to local newspapers.
Community newspapers and newsletters
are a great way to get the message out.

3. Spread the word.
Schedule GPEC to present the need for a
renewable energy program to your co-workers
and professional organizations, and get them
motivated to help build a renewable energy
cluster in Arizona.

——————————————————————————–

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

SB1403 has been introduced to the Arizona
Legislature by Senator Barbara Leff. The Senate
is not hearing any bills until finished with its
2010 budget. GPEC will update you as soon
as SB1403 makes any progress.

Download a briefing on the renewable
energy program.

——————————————————————————–

UPCOMING EVENTS

Southwest Valley Town Hall

March 31, 2009 at 6:30 pm

Estrella Mountain Community College

Map

Join influential community leaders -
like Goodyear Mayor James Cavanaugh
and the Arizona Association for Economic
Development representatives – as they
discuss renewable energy’s role in shaping
the Southwest Valley.

This event is free and open to the public.

Click here to view invitation.

RENEWABLE PROGRAM IN THE NEWS

The proposed Quality Jobs through Renewable Industries program has caught the attention of media throughout Arizona. Below is a sampling of recent articles:

Maricopa, state hope bill will
attract solar industry firms
85239.com
March 23, 2009

Let’s strengthen Arizona’s economy
The Arizona Republic
Elliott D. Pollack Op-Ed
March 14, 2009

Solar energy urged by Yuma legislators
The Yuma Sun
March 9, 2009

Other states eclipse Arizona’s
efforts to lure solar industryThe Arizona Republic
March 8, 2009

Chairman Michael Bidwill discusses
the region’s economy, GPEC and
renewable energy in ArizonaFOX Business News
February 23, 2009

Renewable energy tax credit billKAET Eight / HORIZON
February 11, 2009

——————————————————————————–

ENERGIZE ARIZONA
Know the latest on renewable energy in Arizona?
Visit www.twitter.com/EnergizeAZ for real-time updates
delivered to your mobile device. Join Twitter now.

——————————————————————————–

In this Update…
USDA Announces REAP Energy Technical Assistance Funding
Congress Boosts REAP Funding for 2009

USDA Announces REAP Energy Technical Assistance Funding
The 2008 Farm Bill’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) added, for the first time, a new Energy Audit and Technical Assistance program to REAP.

Under this program, state, local and tribal governments, universities, rural electric cooperatives and public power entities can apply to the USDA to receive grants to implement energy technical assistance programs to benefit agricultural producers and rural small businesses. The program will cut energy waste, help farmers and businesses produce their own renewable energy and improve the bottom line of farm and rural business operations.

This year, based on likely REAP funding, we expect that up to $2.4 million will be available nationwide under this REAP program. The maximum grant per applicant is $100,000, and the deadline to apply for grants is June 10, 2009. A summary of the new program and the full notice may be found here.
To be clear – this energy technical assistance program is for government and rural electric cooperative/private power entities. Also, although the REAP statute suggests that other similar entities, such as non-profit trade associations, could be eligible to apply, this year USDA chose not to allow such entities to apply for program grants.

Congress Boosts REAP Funding for 2009

The Omnibus budget bill signed into law today provides $60 million in funding for 2009 for the Farm Bill’s Rural Energy for American Program (REAP). REAP offers grants and loan guarantees to agricultural producers and rural small businesses to install renewable energy systems or energy efficiency improvements. Although the Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 did not boost funding for farm bill energy title programs, the addition of this funding by Congress carries through on commitments in the 2008 Farm Bill. For a full summary of 2009 Farm Bill Energy Title funding, visit our Appropriations page.

Maricopa receives vital interest on the grade separation during a recent trip to Washington.

Maricopa, Ariz. (March 18, 2009) — On March 10, 2009, Mayor Anthony Smith, Councilmember Farrell and City Staffer Paul Jepson traveled to Washington D.C. to meet with key legislators regarding the City’s legislative agenda, which included the grade separation at State Route 347.

As the Federal government determines which key projects to fund through the Recovery and Restoration Act (Economic Stimulus Package), the Maricopa City Council decided to take action and tell they story of Maricopa. Mayor Smith and Councilmember Farrell went to Washington with the determination to jump start the grade separation project and seek funding for the project’s environmental and design studies.

During meetings with members of the Senate and House, including members of the Appropriations committees, U.S. Representatives Raul Grijalva, Ann Kirkpatrick, Ed Pastor and Harry Mitchell, Senator Jon Kyl, and Senator Jack Reed from Rhode Island, the Mayor and Councilmember discussed safety concerns and the potential for fatalities at the State Route 347 crossing of the Union Pacific rail line and that Federal action is needed to remedy this condition given the gravity of the situation, the scale of the solution required and the scarcity of alternative options.

“This is the time to take the necessary steps to eliminate a growing public safety risk and position Maricopa for future growth,” stated Mayor Smith.

After three days of meetings, Mayor Smith and Councilmember Farrell know that they have garnered support for the City of Maricopa. Congressman Grijalva committed to supporting this appropriation request through the legislative process. Grijalva had previously met with Councilmember Farrell and past Mayor Kelly Anderson in February 2008; he toured the City and understands first hand the situation in Maricopa. In addition, support at the federal level from key agencies and elected officials include; Representative Pastor’s office, Representative Kirkpatrick , Senator Reed, and the National Highway Administration, and National Railroad Administration.

After the conversations and meetings that we have had, I am confident that the public safety and environmental issues in Maricopa, regarding the grade separation, will be a priority,” Councilmember Edward Farrell exclaimed. “The City of Maricopa made great strides in Washington, and I am certain that this project will become a reality.”

This priority issue for Maricopa will continue to be addressed at both the Federal and State level with the assistance of Landry, Creedon and Associates, Inc., the firm contracted to push Maricopa’s legislative agenda forward.

“The grade separation project in Maricopa is an excellent opportunity for Federal spending or State allocations. It is a worthwhile endeavor that will save lives,” stated Mayor Smith. “This is not just a project of convenience.”

About the Author
Marsha Lindquist, CEO of The Management Link, Inc., has over 30 years experience as a business expert in Government contracting She has enhanced her clients’ cost competitiveness, improved their contractual positioning, and solidified overall strategies with companies including BP Amoco, DynCorp, and Northrop Grumman. Marsha adds value by telling you what you need to hear. For more information on her, please visit: www.TheManagementLink.com or email her: Marsha@TheManagementLink.com.

Many businesses shy away from doing business with the Federal Government largely because they have either heard it’s complicated or it requires a large investment in infrastructure to handle successfully. The simple truth is you don’t need a complicated network of support people – something small businesses are not able to easily afford. Equally true is doing business with the Federal Government can be a very simple matter of selling your product or service to a very willing buyer.

Don’t let either of these myths keep you from engaging in a very rewarding and profitable business with a very stable customer. Understanding how the Federal Government buys what they buy, the approaches of how you can fit that requirement and the ways to fit that requirement are essential to market to this valuable customer.

How The Government Buys What They Buy in a Nutshell
The Government essentially buys everything the general commercial marketplace buys and more. It’s no different. The Government needs the same toilet paper for our troops, engineering design services for that new federal building, and radiation oncology services for the nation’s military that commercial businesses need.

The Government generally goes through the same process a business does to buy what they buy. They determine the requirement, write the specifications, assure they have the money, and have the requirement specifically identified. The decision makers are notified of the potential purchase, the requirements and evaluation criteria are detailed for all bidders, and potential bidders are identified. Lastly, all who can reply are given adequate notification and time to respond.

In some cases, it doesn’t take any longer for the Federal Government to purchase what they identify they need than it does in the open marketplace. But let’s talk about six approaches you can take in order to get started working with the Federal Government.

The Approaches – How You Can Fit That Requirement
Keep in mind the Federal Government wants to do business with you. Begin thinking that way and you’ll see these approaches give you several different ways to easily market your services to this valuable customer.

1.Small Business Innovation Research Programs (SBIR). SBIRs are a very available program encouraging small business to explore their technological potential and provide the incentive to profit from its commercialization. The Government wants to include qualified small businesses in R&D so they can stimulate innovation. By reserving a specific percentage of federal R&D funds for small business, SBIR protects the small business and enables it to compete in the same markets as larger businesses. SBIR funds the critical startup and development stages and encourages the commercialization of the technology, product, or service, which, in turn, stimulates the U.S. economy.

2.Prime Contractors. Large companies who already do significant business with the Federal Government are in an excellent position to work with small businesses to deliver what the Government needs. What’s more they are incentivized to do so. All large businesses that have contracts with the Federal Government are required to get small businesses involved on their contracts. They must meet agency goals for small business participation in their contracts and are always looking for qualified and reputable small businesses to partner with. Contact the small business liaison in those large businesses who you believe need your goods or services and develop a relationship with them. This year twenty-three percent (23%) of government procurement dollars are ear-marked for small businesses. There is even a Mentor/Protégé program available to pair up a small business with larger companies.

3.Purchase Orders. The Government can buy in small quantities and can usually buy from you using a simple purchase order. Purchase orders with the Federal Government vary widely. However, with limits varying from $5000 per purchase to a quarter million dollars, they are a purchase vehicle worthy of your attention.

4.Grants. Federal grants, generally given to non-profit organizations, are also available to for-profit companies. Grants are most often used for programs or services that benefit the community. You can find and apply for competitive grant opportunities from most Federal agencies. You can electronically obtain information on types of grants and the government agencies that make grants. You can also sign up to receive notification of future grant opportunities.

5.Small Businesses Representation. The Government earmarks contract dollars for contracts to small, small disadvantaged, women-owned, Native American, veteran-owned, and service disabled veteran owned businesses. Some of these are self-certifications and others require you apply for the certification and prove viability. Under these certification programs companies can realize a faster path to contract awards.

If you are a small business, one of your first calls should be to the SADBU of any agency you think might buy what you sell. These individuals are specifically there to assist you, and can and will help you find opportunities in that agency.

6.Strategic Partnering. The Government gets significant kudos for awarding to small disadvantaged, women-owned, Native American, veteran-owned, and service disabled veteran owned businesses. If you are not in one of these groups, you can still get a strategic advantage by partnering with a company that is. It’s often best to establish those relationships and perform some work with that company commercially before you begin your relationship on a Government contract.

It does take a little work to get Government business and it is not always an easy quick path to growing your business. The Government is a very reliable customer and as a small business you don’t always have to compete head on with the big guys. In fact, you shouldn’t. By using some of the approaches mentioned here, you can expand your business with just a little effort.