Unique Ed Techie

The Innovator Academy - Thank You

2012-01-28T18:05:00.000-05:00

One week ago, I saw something in my Twitter stream or Google+ stream of Knowledge Sharing Passionistas about the Innovator Academy.

The page opened with, "Join the movement! Digital skills are the key to making a difference in education. Part contest/part learning experience, the Innovator Academy will introduce educators to digital tools, people, and places that will inspire curriculum innovation. Sign up to be a part of the Academy online at http://www.innovatoracademy.com and then you will receive a weekly email that gives the first clue to a learning web scavenger hunt. The contest is free, no strings, no costs along the way - just a great way to learn and have fun at the same time.

I was catching up on email when the email from Innovator Academy came through. When I read it I figured I would respond but I certainly knew I wasn't first...but to my surprise a Google Alert prompted me to see why my name was on the net and this is what displayed:

So if you want to participate in the web scavenger hunt check out the Innovator Academy. The Currix Innovator Academy Scavenger Hunt takes place worldwide from Friday January 20, 2012 (01/20/12) to Sunday June 17, 2012 (06/17/12).

So what did I win?
This week's prize is a choice, a spot on the real Innovator Academy during ISTE 12 or a Wacom Bamboo Capture Tablet.

Thank you Currix and Ann-Caryn Cleveland !

Follow Currix on Twitter or the hashtag #innovatoracademy

Lowe's Senior CLASS Award Vote for Paul Goldsmith

2012-01-23T04:25:00.002-05:00

What is CLASS?
An acronym for Celebrating Loyalty and Achievement for Staying in School, the Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award was launched in 2001 to honor the attributes of college basketball seniors who remained committed to their university and pursued the many rewards that a senior season could bring.

Fan balloting counts for 1/3 of the total with the remaining 2/3 determined by NCAA Division I coaches and national media members. Please see the Selection Process section of the Lowe's Senior CLASS Award website for more information. Voting ends February 8, 2012.

No registration required. Vote for Paul Goldsmith Lowe's Senior CLASS Award
Goldsmith will graduate in May 2012 with a degree in sports management, physical education and health. More information about Paul on his page

I have known PJ since he was in elementary school and his mom and I were stationed in Alaska. I am proud to call her my friend, mentor, and one of the blessed breast cancer survivors. I wanted to do what I could to show PJ that I am also proud of everything he has accomplished.

Of course all of the students on the ballot deserve credit for their accomplishments and the positive impact in their digital portfolios. Congrats to all of the students for being nominated for Lowe's Senior CLASS Award!

Thanks in advance for your support!

What a difference a generation makes with gadgets

2012-01-22T11:22:00.001-05:00

We acquired our first networked computer in the house when my daughter started Kindergarten. Now her daughter, at 20 months, in this multigenerational household is exposed to a wireless network, gadgets and terminology such as smartphones, tablets, mobile devices, and laptops.

GGMa Flo who used a beeper during her career days and experienced Atari as the family game console, who didn't grow up with the Internet is now an Internet addict. My daughter who grew up with the technology as we shared many lessons learned from online school to teens tinkering with social media, implements security and privacy measures while sharing select information with her designated Internet connections. And the G-daughter who is growing up with everything Google and is the next generation gadget girl is exposing us all to the wonders of tech through a toddler's eyes.

And me...well I get to be the Network Manager, technogeek, still attempting to educate the end users to be mindful of the information they release and how to hit the F1 key to help themselves, and to tinker.

We use ebooks, multimedia books, Sesame Street and Disney Junior channels on YouTube, a shared Picasa album, Android and iPad apps for children, shared Google calendar for appointments, medicine, milestones, and special events.

The Department of Defense attempts to educate family members on OPSEC as they realized education was better than banning, so the Social Media hub was developed for all services to share Internet based capabilities policies, training and education sources. How are you influencing the family social media policy? How do you educate family users on security topics such as computer security, information security, operation security, personal security?

Some sites that may be of interest:
Free OPSEC training material from the OPSEC Professional's Association
US Army Social Media
US Army Online and Social Media Division Slideshare

Tinkering with Screenshot UX and Google Mobile

2011-12-26T08:21:00.000-05:00

On November 25, 2010 I blogged about tinkering with the ShootMe app and Google Mobile. At that time ShootMe did not require devices to be rooted. Since then the app changed back to requiring users to root their devices and now it seems it is no longer available on the Android Market. The apk file is available from the Android Forum discussion thread. Finding a screen capture (or screen shot, screenshot, screen grabber) app in the Android Market or Amazon Apps produces different results with varying requirements for users.

What do you look for when selecting an app? I probably over analyze but the app has to have ROI in my world, provide the option to connect with others who are using the app, review other individuals comments about the app, see how active the developer is in social networks, affordability of the app and the option to donate if the app is free...but most of all I have to want to use it and be able to share that usability with others.

Since then I upgraded my phone and I am trying out different apps. For a screen capture app that does not require a user to root their device, I am tinkering with Screenshot UX. The developer recommends using the Screenshot UX trial version first so users can see if this app works on their device. If the app functions the way the user wants, you can purchase the app for $3.99. If you use screen captures to help others or in your blogs this app works well.

Here is an image of Google Mobile using Screenshot UX:

What is your favorite screen capture or screen sharing app?

As always, comments, recommendations +1s, and reaction check boxes are always appreciated.

Favorite SMS Backup App? How do you backup your SMS, MMS, and phone log?

2011-12-13T06:12:00.001-05:00

What is your favorite SMS/MMS/Phone log backup app?

Whether you want to backup your phone log, MMS, or SMS there are a variety of free and paid apps out there based on the market you choose. If you are getting ready to upgrade a phone or keeping messages for future reference there is an app for you and your device.

I opted for SMS Backup+ based on what I read, the ease of integration into my GMail, Google Calendar, and because it is a fork from Backup Android. It is also possible to restore SMS and call log entries back to the phone.

SMS Backup+ in the Android App Market
SMS Backup+ in the Amazon Marketplace
SMS Backup+ on github

If you support those who develop apps, the PayPal donation option is available through the About option or from the site you can opt to Flattr.

If you are backing up a phone log I recommend creating an additional Google Calendar for your phone log backup.

SMS - Short Message Service
MMS - Multimedia Messaging Service

So what is your favorite SMS backup app?

As always comments, recommendations, +1s, and reaction box checks are appreciated.

Doctoral dropout and Custodial GMama

2011-12-11T11:53:00.001-05:00

It is official. I withdrew from my Comps and from NCU. It is OK, I can return when I have time. There are times when you have to choose the hard right over the easy wrong. I admit...I wanted to complete my last year...comps and the dissertation phases and be done with something I started.

I beat myself up and down trying to make life work with school, work, custodial grandparenthood, and 4 generations in a household. The last year has been full of adapt, implement, and overcome moments. This post is kind of long...so pour your drink of choice and get comfortable.

While many children under the age of 2 have a digital presence, I have only shared Jazlyn's pictures with select individuals through Picasa. Below is the reason that I chose to be a Doctoral Dropout for now. She is definitely a gadget girl who likes to tinker, from the iPad to the Kindle Fire and she loves Elmo. I did create a GMail address for her so that I can share all of the events that have kept us so busy and so she is not mistaken when she Googles her own parents.

I did not want to be called "Grandma" so I am opting for "GMama". My neighbors adopted the GMama and GDaddy titles and to this day their granddaughter calls them by that title respectively. The other grandmothers in this picture are happy to be grandmothers, both are younger than me and with younger children at home. I know there is another blogosphere on why young adults have unprotected sex.

It is challenging seeking help for our young adult children who want and need to move on with life. I loved being an empty nester in North Carolina. I thought returning to Augusta, GA would encourage my daughter to move on with her life. We went to counseling. The other family talked her into self admitting to the hospital. I am trying to protect my daughter's HIPPA rights but I know that I am not alone in this situation. Then she aged out of my insurance program and does not have any benefits through her employer.

My lawyer said that grandparent custody cases are rising for his firm. Choosing to seek custody of Jazlyn was a tough decision but after a few incidents, consulting with my own mother, and heightened media of the Casey Anthony case...I opted for going to court versus having my daughter committed through probate court. I work with three other women who are stepping up as custodial grandparents. My daughter has not lost her parental rights...she must show that she can support herself and her child.

I will continue to blog as the Unique Ed Techie and just update the profile descriptions throughout the web. I thought about starting another page with a tab at the top and opted against it because I am a unique educational technologist in my personal and professional life. Who knows what the future holds? Maybe I will throw my name in the race for school board in May 2012...maybe our prayers will be answered and my daughter will get her life together and be the responsible single mother that I know she can be...maybe...regardless of what happens I will continue to blog, maybe more that I don't have as much research and reading to do and maybe less because of what LiL JJ brings to our life.

Single parenthood the first time was challenging and never did I think I would be going through this again particularly at this time in my life when I wanted to enjoy "Me Time". I am thankful for everyone in my village for making this work. I am particularly thankful to my mom as I could not continue in my career without her being there for Jazlyn when she cannot go to daycare and I know she did not expect to be taking care of babies after recovering from her fractured neck vertabrates in November 2009.

I know something has happened to my young adult daughter that I cannot help her with. I continue to take the high road and move forward as the other options would put me behind bars. She will not discuss anything with me but apparently lashes out at me via her social media connections. She has blocked anyone who may contact me about her on or offline behavior.

Jumping off of the virtual blog soap box. Keep us in warm thoughts and prayers this season along with those service members who continue to serve and keep on learning every day!

Google Recipes, tech integration, Grandparents Gone Wired

2011-12-05T05:02:00.000-05:00

Have you tried Google Recipes? In February 2011, Google Recipes view launched in the U.S. and Japan.
This link is for Recipe sharers who are webmasters

This holiday season would be a great time to digitize those family recipes, bookmark your favorites and annotate those food allergies. Remember...just because it is your favorite dish does not mean everyone else will like the dish you bring to the holiday get together.

One of my favorites is Spicy Chicken Tenders. Of course a Google Recipe search brings up 135,000 results but I have the option to select filters by ingredients, cook time, and calories.

When I select No blue cheese, the options drop from 135,000 to 8,000 and selecting lower calorie options reduces the options dramatically.

So whether Uncle Joe is using a smart phone or Aunt Bessie has the latest tablet or the office party participants argue over which digital device is the best...integrate the technology by sharing the favorite recipes. Then let the discussion and demo session migrate to who has the best app and how are they using it for grocery shopping lists and annotating food allergies.

Because quality time is stretched thin during the holidays, throw in a free technology sharing certificate for everyone to dedicate one hour of one to one techspertise sharing.

If you are helping a family friend, grandparent, or a senior citizen in your neighborhood, develop your own tutorial and submit it to Do Something's Grandparents Gone Wired project by December 30, 2011. You could win a prize: an iPad, iTunes gift cards or a $500 scholarship.

As always, comments, recommendations, +1s, and reaction box checks are appreciated.

How to become a poll worker in Augusta, GA

2011-12-04T06:46:00.001-05:00

So you want to be a poll worker in Augusta, GA?
The Richmond County Board of Elections is currently looking for persons to work at the polls on Election Day. Beginning pay is $100 per day, with an opportunity for advancement.

You will be required to attend a training session.
You must report to your assigned polling location at 6:00 am on the day of the election and work until the polls close and all paper work and machine close out is completed.
You will complete your assignment by 8:00 pm, but there are times when your day could be longer.

Requirements to be Poll Worker - Augusta, GA
You must meet the following criteria:

Be a citizen of the United States and a resident of Richmond County.
Be at least 16 years of age.
Be able to read, write, and speak the English language.
No person holding public office or Candidate for Office may serve as a poll worker.
An immediate relative of an elected official cannot serve in an election where the relative is a candidate.

Find your polling location

If you are interested, please contact our office at (706) 821-2341.

Absentee Ballot information

Add the G+ icon to your site and Authorship

2011-11-27T18:11:00.001-05:00

Link your Google Profile to your site to help users find your content.
Connecting to your Google Profile will help users find your content on the web.
G+ button generator

Read the branding guidelines - This site outlines the various ways you can use the Google Profile name, logo, and icon without having to have your people call their people.

Hat tip to +Linda Lawrey for sharing this Google+ post today: Online Tool To Check and Improve How Google Displays Your Search Results

Run your site through the Rich Snippets Testing Tool (beta).

Use the Rich Snippets Testing Tool to check that Google can correctly parse your structured data markup and display it in search results.

Authorship - Google is piloting the display of author information in search results to help users discover great content. This feature is being rolled out gradually and will be implemented algorithmically, so author information will not always display in search results.

Have you added the Google+ icon to your site? Have you checked your site results in the Rich Snippets Testing Tool? A viable option for learners to start their digital portfolios beyond a walled learning environment?

Comments, recommendations, +1s, and reaction box checks are welcome.

What kind of shroom is this growing in my yard?

2011-10-22T18:14:00.000-04:00

On May 1, 2011, I asked about a turtle I saw in my back yard in a blog post...now I need help in identifying this giant shroom in my yard. From the deck I thought it looked like a small grocery sack that had blown in the yard from the recent gusts. As I strolled closer it almost resembled a bad cantaloupe but it is some type of mushroom with fire ants feasting at the base. Let the crowdsourcing begin: Can anyone tell me what kind of shroom this is? Is it safe to dig up and put in the yard waste can without causing more shrooms to sprout?

View from the top

View from the side

If you know what type of mushroom this is and the best way to dispose of it, please leave a comment. Thanks in advance for your participation in my crowdsourcing request.

Dug it up and scooped it into the yard waste can. It was solid so no spores drifted in the yard.

How do you keep your stuff up to date?

2011-10-16T08:24:00.000-04:00

In a recent post by Mr. Byrne, author of Free Technology for Teachers, he asks, "Have you updated your browser lately?" On the homefront, I keep everything up to date, tinker with the new, the old, and the outdated...but at work my network is controlled. I understand why but we do not have the option of the tools used, including the selected browser. This image displays if I check my Gmail:

This image displays if I try to access Google+ in the workplace:

But thanks to personally owned gadgets and apps, I can still access my Google products and projects when needed, while keeping OPSEC, COMPUSEC, INFOSEC, IA (and all other securities) in place.

So how do you keep "your stuff" up to date? What options do you have to make suggestions when you do not control your network management tools? Have you become technologically apathetic due to automated controls and functions? Do you have a data recovery plan in place that works? Have you tested the implementation plan that you developed or adopted?

Thanks to Mr. Richard Byrne and his awesome blog, Free Technology For Teachers for sharing his knowledge, skills, and abilities with the world, regardless of a reader's profession.

Comments, recommendations, +1s, and reaction box checks are welcome.

DOD Dictionary of Military Terms and Acronyms & NetLingo

2011-10-12T05:33:00.000-04:00

Every niche in our global lives has some type of jargon associated and working with the military and federal agencies is no different. At times, we have been accused of creating sentences containing only acronyms, from a jargon sometimes referred to acronymese.

One link that is shared amongst those who ask, "What does that mean? What are they talking about?" is the DoD Dictionary of Military Terms and Acronyms. The files are also available in pdf and xml formats. Users have the option to enter a word and search or browse the links

The description from the site:
The DOD Dictionary is managed by the Joint Education and Doctrine Division, J-7, Joint Staff. All approved joint definitions, acronyms, and abbreviations are contained in Joint Publication 1-02, DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms 08 November 2010, as amended through 15 August 2011.

Another niche with acronyms and terms often shared is Net Lingo.
For those who wonder what everyone is talking about in chat, text message, and on the net is NetLingo: The List of Chat Acronyms & Text Message Shorthand, Smileys and Emoticons, to the Top 50 lists for parents, newbies, business, funniest, and commonly used.

What are some of your often shared links for jargon, terms, references when people ask, "What are you talking about?"

Comments, recommendations, and links to your favorite jargon sites are welcome.

For my job seeking friends and acquaintances

2011-10-05T06:11:00.005-04:00

*Update: The overhauled USAJOBS site is back up and running. Log in, update your profile and saved searches.

USAJOBS search and apply functions offline during the transition

OPM will transition to the new USAJOBS over the Columbus holiday weekend. During the transition nearly 5 billion rows of data will be extracted, validated, and subjected to integrity testing to preserve the applicant resumes, seeker profiles, and agency job postings in the current system.

The USAJOBS search and apply functions will be "offline," beginning at 5 pm EDT on October 7, 2011, which means no searches can be conducted and no applications can be submitted via USAJOBS. Daily transition status updates and general employment information, however, will be available on USAJOBS.gov. So, if you were planning to jump start your federal job search in the new fiscal year, you might want to schedule it for October 12th!

USAJOBS Student Jobs
Feds Hire Vets

You can still keep up to date through Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
The Army Resume Builder site lists this announcement: APPLICANTS please note that while USAJOBS is down, 6-12 October 2011, you WILL NOT be able to apply (self-nominate) to any announcement. During this period access will be limited to creating/updating your resume and viewing the status of submitted applications only.
Comments, recommendations, +1 and reaction box selections are always welcome.

How Google Docs saved me during ABIC

2011-09-24T12:26:00.000-04:00

Recently I attended an ABIC (Army Basic Instructor Course) Refresher Course...reasons why are for another blog post, so any way back to how Google Docs saved me. On day one we are issued this stack of papers as a Student Reference and a CDROM. On day two we are assigned a specific common core/general knowledge class that we will present in the ABIC/TRADOCian method.

We develop a training outline, then develop a question outline, prior to giving our presentation. We are given access to a computer lab in another building before and after class but I head back to the office as we are down to the wire before the big TRADOC QAO Accreditation visit. Google Docs is not accessible from .mil domain so it never really saves me on the computer I use at work when I need a product that I save in my Google Docs.

For some reason, the CDROM was blank after using at work and we were required to submit a printed copy of the training outline to our evaluator. Because I saved, created, and modified my requirements in Google Docs, I knew if I needed the data I could access the information with my tablet or my phone.

While I was frustrated in the walled learning environment, which included a ban on cell phones, I enjoyed working with the great group of NCOs who taught the course and those who were students in the course as they prepare for their military instructor positions for the leadership and technical aspects of the Signal Corps. Would I do it again? Not unless I am required to do so and the course is implementing the Army Learning Concept 2015 or following the pilot using iPads and mentors.

Hopefully, the course improvements will adapt more of the tenets of ALC 2015 before FY 15 as FY 12 starts next Saturday, 1 October 2011.

iCivics Games

2011-09-05T10:01:00.004-04:00

What is iCivics?
From the About page: iCivics (formerly Our Courts) is a web-based education project designed to teach students civics and inspire them to be active participants in our democracy. iCivics is the vision of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, who is concerned that students are not getting the information and tools they need for civic participation, and that civics teachers need better materials and support. You can download the handout (.pdf), see What is iCivics in Prezi by Jeff Curley, or visit the iCivics and explore on your own.

A special section for teachers to search or browse curriculum units via games, web quests, lesson plans and by state, grade, and state standards. Below is the brief description of the games with links organized by topic. From the site you can select the topic or time tab.

You can register (with your Facebook account or email) and save your progress, educators can create accounts and share lessons, or you can opt out and just play and explore. You also have an option to make and impact and donate your points to an impact project.

Citizenship and Participation

Activate
Do you have a great idea about how to make positive change in your community? In Activate, you campaign for an issue of your choice.
Cast Your Vote
What issues do you want to ask candidates about? In Cast Your Vote, you choose the questions in a debate, rate their responses, and vote for the candidate of your choice....
Immigration Nation
Do you know how people become citizens of the United States? In Immigration Nation, you'll find out as you guide newcomers along their path to citizenship. Good luck!
Responsibility Launcher
Have you ever wanted to knock some civic sense into someone? In Responsibility Launcher, you can ...

The Constitution and Bill of Rights
Argument Wars
Ever tried to win a disagreement? In Argument Wars, you will try out your persuasive abilities by arguing a real Supreme Court case.
Do I Have a Right?
You’ll run your own firm of lawyers who specialize in constitutional law.

Budgeting
Counties Work
Do you want to make your community a better place to live? In Counties Work, you decide about the programs and services that affect everyone!
People's Pie
Do you like to control your own money? In People’s Pie, you control the budget of the federal government!

Separation of Powers
Branches of Power
Do you like running things? Branches of Power allows you to do something that no one else can: control all three branches of government!

The Executive Branch
Executive Command
Ever wanted to be President for a day? In Executive Command, you can be President for four years!

The Legislative Branch
LawCraft
Want to make some laws? You can in LawCraft, where you play a member of Congress from the state of your choice.
Represent Me
In Represent Me!, you work as a legislator trying to meet the needs of your constituents.

The Judicial Branch
Argument Wars
Ever tried to win a disagreement? In Argument Wars, you will try out your persuasive abilities by arguing a real Supreme Court case.
Court Quest
In Court Quest, people from around the country need your help to navigate our court system. Listen carefully to each case, so you can guide them to the right place!
Do I Have a Right?
You’ll run your own firm of lawyers who specialize in constitutional law.
Supreme Decision
Ever wondered how the Supreme Court really works? In Supreme Decision, you help cast the deciding vote.

So whether you are an autodidact, celebrating Constitution Day, remembering 9/11 or just like to tinker with games that may enhance your knowledge, check out the iCivics site...there is something for everyone.

Comments, recommendations, +1 and reaction box selections are always welcome.

Farm to School Program Does your school or district participate?

2011-08-14T21:09:00.000-04:00

When you look at your local schools can you remember the last time you were in the local school cafeteria? Eaten in one lately? Do you know if and/or how your state is participating in the Farm to School program?

Recently, one of the local news stations (WRDW) featured a story on Healthier eating options for Richmond County School System students. What I find ironic is that according to the Georgia FFA page, "Georgia FFA is the 3rd largest state association with more than 31,000 members. There are 285 chapters and more than 400 agricultural education teachers in Georgia" but when I inquire as to the participation (or lack of) in the Farm to School program only 2 districts and 99 schools in the state of Georgia are participating?

The GA Farm to School Profile page states, "Georgia is the 6th largest producer of vegetables in the U.S., yet our children rank as the 3rd most obese and overweight". The CDC Obesity and Overweight site provides a map with obesity rates from 1985-2010 and tools where one can view the statistics for their county.

Today, when more organizations are collaborating for success in education, business, health, welfare or within local communities I wonder why the connection between the FFA and the Farm to School program isn't encouraged, particularly by those who want to gripe and groan about budget cuts rather than recommending possible solutions.

While Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution brought attention to American school lunch programs, he has been educating and helping people make healthy decisions longer than most people in the US are aware, as one can see on his global foundation sites: JamieOliver.com UK, Australia, Nederland, US . Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution site has one page with the latest news from people who are participating in a personal Food Revolution at home, to schools, to districts making a difference. His site also has tools for individuals, schools, teachers, and school districts.

This post allows me to ask those questions that have been previously asked but have gone unanswered or ignored. As another school year starts and budget issues continue in the normal operations...what are you doing to make a difference?

Does your school participate in the Farm to School program? Are students in your district participating in their version of a Food Revolution? How does your state, county, city rate in the CDC Overweight and Obesity trends?

OK...I'll jump off of the 20 questions soap box.
Comments, reaction box checks, or using a shared option are always appreciated.

My Coke Rewards for school and other things YOU can do to help education

2011-08-13T06:34:00.001-04:00

One year ago I did a blog post on Coke Rewards for Schools where I listed the Richmond County Schools that were participating in the program and where anyone could donate points to a school whether the school was registered or not. I recently returned to the site to enter my codes and went to the donate to schools section and Butler High School was registered...finally. Hopefully all of my previous donations went to schools that were registered in our area, if not, I am sure some school was happy to receive the additional points.

The school system is still one part of your community, you still pay taxes (in one form or another) to support the system, so why not support it in additional ways that can help those in the system? Whether you donate your time, your points, your soup labels, or whatever your community is doing...invest in our replacements, as the students today will make the decisions about "who rocks your rocking chair"...it is the circle of life.
What if you don't drink participating Coke products (Water, Tea, Soda, Powerade)? Look around...is there a vending machine in your workplace? Set up a box for people to drop off the lids before they recycle the bottle. Does the team purchase the multipacks of Powerade or Dasani?

There are 4 easy ways to enter codes:

MyCokeRewards.com
My Coke Rewards Mobile - Associate your mobile # with your account
Desktop Widget
Text codes to 2653

There are other ways to use your Coke Rewards from supporting a good cause (USO, Hispanic College Fund, American Cancer Fund, National Parks, Ocean Conservancy, River Network) to selections from the rewards, sweepstakes, instant wins.

What other ways are you helping your local learners and schools?
Encourage, inspire, assist, +1 someone, listen, care
DonorsChoose
DoSomething
BestBuy @15
Lowe's Toolbox for Education
Barnes and Noble at school
Boxtops for Education
Target Take Charge for Education
Office Depot Foundation - Education
Office Depot - Local support
Kroger Earning Plus Learning
Campbell's Labels for Education
America's Promise
UPromise
Google Scholarships

What other ways are you helping those who will eventually replace you in the circle of life?

Previous related posts
10+ things anyone can do (2008)
$13.4 million shortfall what else can you do? (2008)
Schools worry donations will dwindle (2008)
Two schools will win $10K for their library via Coke Rewards (2011)

Download your Google+ Circles, Contacts and Data Liberation

2011-07-16T08:02:00.007-04:00

Google lets you save a backup of your photos, profile information, contacts, circles, stream posts, and Buzz posts to your computer.

– An important note about the Google+ Field Trial –
You're a part of a small group of people who are helping to test Google+. When you share something with people who are not yet able to use Google+, they will receive it via email but won't be able to comment or engage with the content like other Google+ users. They'll be able to join Google+ as we let more users in over time.

Data Liberation - New to you?

Why did you start The Data Liberation Front?
For a couple of reasons. The first reason is that we heard our CEO, Eric Schmidt, speak out against lock-in time and time again, "How do you be big without being evil? We don't trap end users. So if you don't like Google, if for whatever reason we do a bad job for you, we make it easy for you to move to our competitor."

We started looking at our products and discovered that while the door to leave wasn't locked, in some cases it was a bit "stuck" and we thought that we could do better. Google products that have been liberated

Do you have a personal data recovery/transition plan? Have you ever implemented the plan? How do you know what you are maintaining or backing up is functional?

Why wait until World Backup Day March 31, 2012? If you consider your data valuable or precious, develop and maintain a personal data recovery and/or transition plan.

What my cousin is doing with his leukemia diagnosis

2011-07-10T22:07:00.022-04:00

This post is dedicated to my cousin, Paul. Paul Pavao...you can Google him, friend him on Facebook, purchase his recent book ( Logos ) but I would encourage you to visit his latest blog, Thrilled to Death: Paul Pavao's Leukemia blog: http://yippee-leukemia.blogspot.com/ follow it, subscribe to it, or at least read the post on marrow donation.

Normally I post about something I discovered, learned, found a need to share or just something that is sticking in my craw that is in some way connected to educational technology. Because of technology integration, I can share his latest blog: Thrilled to Death: Paul Pavao's Leukemia blog.

Paul's links:
His informative post on marrow donation:
http://yippee-leukemia.blogspot.com/2011/07/marrow-donation.html
His Google profile https://profiles.google.com/115443870120035597654/posts
Proof of evolution blog
Thrilled to Death: Paul Pavao's Leukemia blog
Linkedin http://www.linkedin.com/in/shammahpavao
Rosecreek Village http://www.rosecreekvillage.com/

This post is for the connections we will make, marrow donations that will be made, and awareness by those who read and share.

What is Google Pack?

2011-06-22T06:15:00.000-04:00

Occasionally I run into people who are new to computers and are overwhelmed where to start, what is safe, who to trust, or ________ (insert your own concern).

One site I recommend for them to visit is the Google Pack site. Which is then followed by, "What is Google Pack?" and for those who are on the site while we are talking, "Why is this free?" or "Why didn't someone tell me about this before?"

As displayed in the image, Google Pack is:
Software selected by Google
Always free
Ready to use in just a few clicks!

Google Pack for Mac and Google Pack for Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7.

Learn more about the software selected in Google Pack. The site lists the software selected by Google with two bullet statements that provides a description. You can select Learn More About Google Pack Software and access the source where one can gather more information about each product. The site changes to keep up with current needs, when Google Pack first launched Google Chrome didn't exist. You can select one or all of the following options for installation: Google Chrome Web Browser, Google Apps, Google Earth, Google Toolbar for IE, Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus, avast! Free Antivirus, Immunet Protect Antivirus, Google Desktop, Google Picasa, Adobe Reader, Firefox with Google Toolbar, Google Talk, Skype, RealPlayer, WebM for IE9.

Previous versions of Google Pack included: Ad-Aware, GalleryPlayer, Norton Antivirus Special Edition 2005, which included a 6-month subscription, Norton Security Scan, StarOffice, a productivity suite that includes a word processor and spreadsheet, Trillian, Spyware Doctor Starter Edition.
Google Pack is also available through the Google Products page in the Home and Office Category.
Once Google Updater is installed, you can view the current status, view installed software, set the status for updates, and set your preferences. You can remove or customize Google Updater.

Scroll to the bottom of the site and you will find links for the International versions of Google Pack available in: Български - čeština - dansk - Deutsch - Ελληνικά - English - English (UK) - Español - suomi - Français - Hrvatski - Magyar - Italiano - 日本語 - 한국어 - Nederlands - Norsk - polski - Português (Brasil) - Română - русский - Slovenčina - svenska - ไทย - Türkçe - 简体中文 - 繁体中文
Google Pack via Wikipedia

So whether you like to tinker, help others, or need a quick fix for an older device there is something for everyone in the Google Pack. Have you or do you use Google Pack?

Comments, recommendations, +1 and reaction box selections are always welcome.

Have you checked out the new items in the Google Store?

2011-06-19T13:11:00.000-04:00

I have been a Google girl/Google jockey/Google user for at least a decade and I still share this link with people who have never visited the Google Store. My mother often jokes that if the Google store sold underwear/panties/drawers she would buy them for me every Christmas.

So when people ask where did you get that shirt, gadget, sticker, mouse pad or whatever item of interest...I share the link or just tell them to Google the Google Store. You will be prompted to select your location for a shipping location: US, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Europe, South America, Africa, and Asia. It is OK to check on another area to see what is available even if you don't live there and practice your currency conversion too!

The Google Store has something for everyone, from stickers, bibs, things to wear, to collectibles to a section for YouTube gear. Select a category: Apps, Accessories, Fun, Kids, Office, Wearables, or Doodles, search the site, or review top sellers, what's new, eco-friendly, or specials, shop by size, color, or select sort options.

Eco Friendly References

Of course, all of the no cost Google digital products and Google Labs are always cool to share tinkering time with someone.

Remember...just because you know about it, tinkered with it, or visited the site...many of your friends, peers, coworkers, supervisors, administrators have never gone beyond the search screen of Google unless it was to click on the Google Doodle. Encourage others to tinker and explore, regardless of the device they use to access the Net.

*This blog post was created for those who are interested in visiting the Google Store. I am a user of Google products, not an employee. No discount, gifts, freeware, or special privileges were offered in the creation or deployment of this post.

Google Inside Search

2011-06-16T20:43:00.001-04:00

Another cool Google site to tinker with: Google Inside Search using the Chrome Extension Blog This
Google Inside Search Google deals with more than 1 billion queries a day from all around the world returning results on an average of 0.25 seconds.

Google Under the Hood - Experiments Lab, Life of a Query, Instant Search, Search Globe.

Dive into Search and learn more about what happens behind the scenes of Google Search. Play with our Experiments Lab and get a better look at the technology behind Google.

Chrome Extension Blog This

Critical Thinking and Decision Making...still required skillsets

2011-05-27T06:40:00.001-04:00

Regardless of your role in life, student, parent (first and lifelong teacher), educator, technology integrationist, or whatever your job title...you will be impacted by social media, technology, and sometimes you may find yourself in the crossroads when you reflect on your own critical thinking and decision making processes. You can reflect upon those decisions when you read the old standby of Dr. Suess's, Oh the Places You'll Go (1990).

You'll get mixed up, of course, as you already know.
You'll get mixed up with many strange birds as you go.
So be sure when you step. Step with care and great tact
and remember that Life's a Great Balancing Act.
Just never foget to be dexterous and deft.
And never mix up your right foot with your left.

And will you succeed?
Yes! You will, indeed!
(98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed.)

Our ability to make decisions and think critically are still core competencies that require us to learn and apply life lessons throughout our lives. Learning to adapt, implement, and overcome is just another aspect in our personal duties and responsibilities in our own lives.

Memorial Day

Don't forget to take a moment to remember those the U.S. men and women who died during military service by observing a minute of silence at 3:00 PM, local time. If you are driving, turn on your lights.

IdeaPaint finally makes a debut in the SW Augusta Lowe's

2011-05-07T08:08:00.001-04:00

About 45 days ago I was at my local Lowe's and inquired at the paint department and customer service about the location of IdeaPaint. I was shown chalkboard paint and said no, IdeaPaint it is like a whiteboard paint so I can write on the walls with dry erase markers. The paint department sent me across the aisle to customer service. At customer service, she called the paint department and asked if she knew anything about the paint I was looking for, of course the same response. She asked where did I learn about this paint, and my response was through the net, particularly from my Twitter network.

You can order IdeaPaint from the IdeaPaint website or from Lowe's. My preference was to purchase it at the store or special order it and pick it up at the store and receive the 10% military discount offered by Lowe's.

Last weekend, as I walked in the front main aisle, I saw this display at the edge of the paint department. While I was happy Lowe's now carries IdeaPaint in the store, I thought how much cooler would it be if the area above this display had an operational piece with IdeaPaint so people could write on it with a dry erase marker and experience the product.

IdeaPaint display at SW Augusta Lowe's

I appreciate Lowe's bringing IdeaPaint to the physical storefront. If you do purchase the IdeaPaint, there is a list of items you want to purchase in addition to the IdeaPaint: Glidden Gripper or Killz Primer, a separate roller for the primer, and typical paint prep accessories such as tape, 120 grit sand paper, rags for clean up, and you need to let IdeaPaint cure for 7 days. Plan on vacating the room and set up for ventilation as the odor is quite different than standard paint.

Free Tech Sharing Certs for School Nurse, Teacher Appreciation Week and Mother's Day

2011-05-03T06:09:00.001-04:00

Thanks to 2500+ using the Tech Sharing Certs for Mother's Day, Teacher Appreciation, School Nurse recognition and other days that can be associated with sharing techspertise.

With many people looking to give meaningful gifts on limited budgets here are a few free certificates that you can use or modify for your tech sharing event for upcoming School Nurse Appreciation Day, Teacher Appreciation Week and Mother's Day. Many children want to give but may not know what to give...so the gift of your time can be memorable especially when sharing techspertise.

These are created in Google Docs and you can create a copy and print or tailor to your needs. Be creative and give the gift of your time and share techspertise amongst each other.

No tech in the classroom or at home? Meet at the local library, introduce people to members of your PLN, show someone how to make that digital clock to quit blinking, challenge others to explore menu bar options, share tips on recycling tech, enjoy a Google video chat or Skype conversation.....fill in the blank with your idea. Tech skills are as diverse as the tools available...why not help someone learn something new...or be willing to let someone show you what they have learned.

School Nurse Technology Sharing Gift Certificate

Teacher Appreciation Technology Sharing Gift Certificate

Mother's Day Technology Sharing Gift Certificate

Enjoy...and feel free to share how you used the certificates. Thanks to all of you (2500+) who have used these tech sharing certs with others.

Comments, recommendations, and/or checks in the Reaction boxes are welcome.