Category Archives: Articles & Columns

FAQ for the Non-Techie – Yosemite Beta

Posted on by
1

Yosemite Betta

A few weeks ago, there was a lot of buzz about Yosemite Public Beta and fortunately, I have a chance to test it. Here’s a basic six-question FAQ about this craze in “non-tech” terms.

1. “What is Yosemite Beta?”
Only open to the first one million, Yosemite Beta is the early public release of the new operating system (OS X) on the Mac for the everyday consumer. Note the word beta as it means, “a trial of machinery, software, or other products, in the final stages of its development…”

2. “Is that what #YosemiteBeta is referring to social media sites?”
Yes. Folks that are using that “hashtag” term on Twitter are basically excited to share that they’re more than likely one of the 1 million that got access to the program. If you’re not sure what a hashtag on Twitter is, read Twitter’s tutorial. If you spot someone being a “hastag abuser,” send them this love link: howtohashtag.com

3. “How did you get a copy of the new version of Mac?”
I signed up to be on the waiting list on the OS X Beta Program. The program is limited to the first 1 million people, so if you’re interested, hurry up!

4. “How do I find out more about Yosemite Beta’s features?”
The popular tech blog Mashable has a great preview article by Christina Warren titled, “The Mac Never Looked So Good: OS X Yosemite Beta.” It quickly highlights the new look and features and includes a concise 2-1/2 minute video, making it easy to understand.

5. “What if I already switch over my computer but I want to go back to the old version?”
If you’re comfortable with your computer skills AND you have everything backed up, check out this great article on how to go about it by Christopher Breen, Senior Editor at Macworld.com, titled “How to revert to Mavericks from the Yosemite public beta.”

6. “How’s everything going on your Mac so far with Yosemite Beta?”
Pretty good and happy with it. One minor bug that, well, bugs me but I have sent the feedback to the Feedback Assistant provided. Here’s a quick tutorial on how to use it at oxsdaily.com, titled “Don’t Like Something in OS X Yosemite? Let Apple Know with Feedback Assistant.”

What about you? Do you love the new OSX or hate it? Did you installed it? Share your comments below.

Quit and Move On: Why Facebook is like a Poor Newsletter

Posted on by
Reply

newstands
An opinion piece was recently published in Yahoo! Voices and I wanted to share a quick preview. I encourage you to check out the full article and share your feedback. Do you agree or disagree?

I quit Facebook because it reminded me too much of a poor startup newsletter: it’s content completely dispersed, no solid direction, and desperate for readers. Dispersed. When you first open Facebook in the morning, you’re not sure what to expect. It could be a morning salutation, an inspiration quote or a rant. Let’s not forget that one random person that still “pokes” you…

Continue reading at … yahoo

Elgin recognizes new U.S. citizens (El Conquistador)

Posted on by

First article published in a bilingual newspaper, El Conquistador. Friday, June 23, 2006. Review links below for full article clipping and more.

by Tracy Ibarra

ELGIN – Juan Castro, along with 30 other new U.S. Citizens, were recognized June 14 at the seventh Annual Elgin Recognition Program for New U.S. citizens that was held during a city council meeting.

The event, which had the Elgin Chambers packed with approximately 200, was organized by the Elgin New Citizens Recognition Commission, which includes founder Jerry Turnquist, Elgin Community College, City of Elgin Mayor Ed Shock, Elgin’s City Council, and citizens at large.

Citizenship class instructor at Elgin Community College Richard Reed gave a brief overview of the process the students have to go through in order to apply for citizenship. “These students really want to be citizens, so they’re willing to put the time and effort,” said Reed. Castro, who became a U.S. citizen in January, spoke at the recognition about his arrival to the United States when he was 18 years old from Guerrero, Mexico, about his wife and three kids, and his love for the United States.

“I love this country because it give me the opportunity for a better life and not just for me but for my family as well. I am proud to be an American citizen.” Castro said.

Abigail Martinez, a Huntley resident, was very happy for her friend Rosa Sanborn, another new U.S. citizen acknowledged at the recognition. “I’m excited for her because she’s been waiting for three years and I know she wants to live in this country for the rest of her life, so that she can have better opportunities,” Martinez said.

The event closed with the Elgin Choral Union Outreach Ensemble singing patriotic songs, including the National Anthem.

A reception, hosted by State Representative Ruth Munson (R-Elgin) and Senator J. Rauschenberger (R-Elgin), followed the ceremony.

Full Clipping – PDF – Elgin recognizes new U.S. citizens