MIKE'S COMMENTARY
THIS WEEK'S SCHEDULE
NEWS & NOTES BY SUE FOUST
 

MIKE'S COMMENTARY AND/OR BITS OF WISDOM Final
Lock Haven Summer Concert

...Sunday evenings at the J. Doyle Corman Amphitheater and Floating Stage, Jay & Water Streets, Lock Haven.

DATE & TIME	BAND	TYPE OF MUSIC
August 28 - 6:30-9:00 pm	The Billy Price Band	Rhythm & Blues

Oh yes, it is that time again.  Whether you're a diehard supporter or casual observer of  Pop Warner, Pee Wee, Midget, Jr./Sr. School Age, Prep School, College, Pro, Fantasy and/or all of them, the next 23 weeks (yes you read it correctly - 23 weeks)  will feature pigskin rivalries -- live, on the air, on-line, and in the media.  Non football participating spouses can kiss weekends, Monday and Thursday evenings co-activity good-bye.  Here are some sites that should prove useful for the avid fan.       Football - General  The next two pretty much cover it all.  http://football.about.com/ College Football Fight Songs http://fightmusic.com/ Official Rules for any sanctioned football association http://football.about.com/od/footballrules/      Pop Warner / Central Mountain Wildcats http://eteamz.active.com/cmwpwf/      High School PIAA - Pennsylvania High School http://www.piaa.org/Sports/Specific/Football/index.asp http://piaa.ebensburg.com/football/PIAAChampions.htm Central Mountain http://www.kcsd.k12.pa.us/cmsid/ftball.htm Jersey Shore Area -needs updated  http://www.jsasd.k12.pa.us/mainpages/Schools/SRHIGH/Sports/Football.htm      College Football NCAA site. http://www.ncaafootball.net/ College Football Hall Of Fame http://www.collegefootball.org/ College Polls and More http://www.collegefootballpoll.com/polls_and_more.html Penn State Football http://www.gopsusports.com/Football/home.cfm http://www.pennlive.com/pennstatefootball/ http://www.psu.edu/sports/football/history/ University of Pittsburgh http://pittsburghpanthers.collegesports.com/sports/m-footbl/pitt-m-footbl-body.html http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/college/teams/pittsburgh/ Lock Haven University http://www.lhup.edu/sports/football/ Lycoming http://www.lycoming.edu/sports/football/05releases/fb_16jan05.htm Bucknell http://bucknellbison.collegesports.com/sports/m-footbl/buck-m-footbl-body.html Temple http://www.owlsports.com/sports/football/ Notre Dame Good site from Sports Illustrated. http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/ncaa/ Good site from ESPN http://college.espn.go.com/ncf/index Good site from Sporting News. http://www.sportingnews.com/ College Football News http://www.collegefootballnews.com/      Professional Football Offical NFL Site http://www.nfl.com/ Hall of Fame (Pros) site http://www.profootballhof.com/  Philadelphia Eagles http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/default.jsp Pittsburgh Steelers http://www.steelers.com/      Fantasy Football http://games.espn.go.com/ffl/frontpage

 
 
 

Morphing Math Teaching I've had the personal pleasure? of chronologically (1950-2005) experiencing the following social stages for teaching math , as a student, as a parent, as a mentor, as a grandparent, as a grandparent, as a grandparent, and the final stage, just last year, as a taxpayer and fast food chain customer...Yikes, what can be next? Last week I purchased a burger for $1.58. I handed the cashier $2.00 and started digging for some change. I pulled out 8 cents and gave it to her. She stood there with $2 and 8 cents. She looked bewildered, holding the nickel and 3 pennies, while looking at the screen on her register. I sensed her discomfort and tried to tell her to just give me two quarters, but she hailed the manager for help. While he tried to explain the transaction to her, she burst into tears. The incident got me thinking about how our kids were learning math in school (or not). Teaching Math In 1950: A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is 4/5ths of the price. What is his profit? Teaching Math In 1960: A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is 4/5ths of the price, or $80. What is his profit? Teaching Math In 1970: A logger exchanges a set "L" of lumber for a set of "M" of money. The cardinality of set "M" is 100. Each element is worth one dollar. Make 100 dots representing the elements of the set "M." The set "C," the cost of product ion, contains 20 fewer points than set "M." Represent the set "C" as a subset of set "M." Answer this question: What is the cardinality of the set "P" of profits? Teaching Math In 1980: A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is $80 and his profit is $20. Your assignment: Underline the number 20. Teaching Math In 1990: By cutting down beautiful forest trees, the logger makes $20. What do you think of this way of making a living? Topic for class participation after answering the question: How did the forest birds and squirrels feel as the logger cut down the trees. (There are no wrong answers) Teaching Math In 2000: A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is $120. How does Arthur Anderson determine that his profit margin is $60? Teaching Math in 2005: El hachero vende un camion carga por $100. La cuesta de production es .  I've got at least another 10 years. I can't imagine what's next in teaching math.  Thanks to C. Wayne Wert for this gem.

The Telemarketer The phone rang as I was sitting down to my anticipated evening meal, and as I answered it I was greeted with, "Is this Wilhiam Wagenhoss?" This didn't sound anything like my name, so I asked, "Who is calling?" The telemarketer said he was with The Rubberband-Powered FreezerCompany or something like that and then I asked him if he knew Wilhiam personally and why was he was calling this number.  I then said off to the side,"Get really good pictures of the body and all the blood." I then turned back to the phone and advised the caller that he had entered a murder scene and must stay on the line because we had already traced this call and he would be receiving a summons to appear in the local courthouse to testify in this murder case. I then questioned the caller at great length as to his name, address, phone number at home, at work, who he worked for, how he knew the dead guy and could he prove where he had been about one hour before he made this call. The telemarketer was getting very concerned and his answers were given in a shaky voice. I proceeded to tell him we had located his position at his work place and the police were entering the building to take him into custody.  At that point, I heard the phone fall and the scurrying of his running away. My wife asked me as I returned to our table, why I had tears streaming down my face and so help me, I couldn't tell her for about fifteen minutes. My meal was cold, but oh-so-very enjoyable.  I'd go back on the call list if I thought that I'd get a shot at doing that.  (Mike)

~HMMM~  A conscience is what hurts when all your other parts feel so good. &  If everything seems to be going well,  you have obviously overlooked something.

 
KCNET CLASSES:

Beginner Windows 9x/XP
 4 session course
Topics include an introduction to all parts of the computer, learning about the desktop, mouse features and operation, and features and operation of the keyboard. Also creating shortcut icons, using recycle bin, wallpaper and screen savers, toolbars and taskbars, drag and drop, using window features (minimize, maximize, resize, etc), control panel, accessing the different drives, and more. There is always time for questions and general exploration.

Intermediate Windows 9x/XP
 4 session course
Topics include organization of windows programs, creating and organizing folders, file extensions, saving files from Internet, folder and file views, formatting floppy disks, installing programs, download programs from Internet, HTML email, uninstall vs delete, scandisk and defrag, email attachments, and more. There is always time for questions and general exploration.

Advanced Windows 9x/XP
 4 session course
Topics include a review of the management of folders and files, an introduction to photo manipulation, introduction to web page creation, using the sound recorder, attaching recordings to emails, introduction to eyeball cams and Internet transmission, and an introduction to burning your own CDs. There is always time for questions and general exploration.

KCnet Users Group:  (formerly know as  "Senior Net Learners" most recently called "Advanced Class").  I  wanted to call this class "The Abusers Group", but Sue would not hear of that.  Attendees are persistent in their search for computer knowledge.  They ask great questions and present interesting challenges.  The cost for this class is $0.00 for members of KCnet and $2.00 per session for non KCnet members.  There is no set format for the sessions.  Occasionally we will take a specific subject and do a detailed study over a period of successive weeks.  Don't be afraid to ask questions.  The folks that have been attending for awhile are always happy for a review and in most cases new or better ways to do things will surface.  Questions stimulate in-depth exploration with the usual result being an understanding of how and why.
We welcome new attendees from the Advanced sessions and our forever growing KCnet membership.  This is an advanced group and we cover a lot of territory. We are kind of free flowing.  You never know what will transpire.
It is not necessary for attendees to have their own computers but it sure helps with the learning curve.
KCnet Advanced Class computer knowledge and Advanced Class computer skills are necessary.

OTHER CLASSES:
CLICK HERE FOR ORIENTATION - BEGINNERS - INTERMEDIATE - ADVANCED
CLICK HERE FOR SCANNING - MAC- GENEALOGY - WEB PAGE - EXCEL - WORD - DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY - PHOTO MANIPULATION - OTHER SPECIALTIES

KCnet Users Group:  Every Wednesday
The starting time is 9:00 AM on this Wednesday August 31.  We meet in Computer Lab 1 (The Big Room).  Leadership is Mike Foust and anyone that wants to jump into the fray.
Quite a day this past Wednesday.
We got rollin' with some pics from viewers...then we took the tech ride.  Among the many topics covered we...

...discused using the Windows system disk to repair system errors instead of reinstalling Windows.  This is a Windows XP technique.  Bev Womeldorf explained how she repaired some utilities that were lost or missing, including system restore.  She made us aware of a tech site that enabled her to go through the process.  She actually was looking for directions to do a "Clean Boot".  But in the process she accomplished a reinstall of Windows XP which cured her ills.  Take a look at http://www.winxpfix.com/page3-Clean-Boot-Tips.htm#cleanboot  for clean boot directions.  Look at the home page for Windows Fix Zone for a ton of good tech help.  http://www.winxpfix.com/

...reviewed a series of emails pertaining to fixing Pay Pal security because of a phishing scheme problem.

...heard Sue and Mike Foust do an update on the new KCnet Web based mail.  Topics covered included establishing personal info, setting parameters for folders , setting parameters for Blacklisting, setting parameters for the Spam Assassin, how to keep the mail below the allowable size, etc.  Keep in mind that there are default settings for all the above and KCnet users will not loose the current level of spam control or virus protection.  The
advantage for KCnet members is the ability to increase or decrease the intensity of these tools.  Members will still have the choice of using the new Web based mail system or their current POP mail  program such as Outlook Express, Eudora, Netscape, Thunderbird or  whatever; or both systems.
A general email to all members explaining the new system is forthcoming.
 

Snacks:  Umm Umm Good!  For the sweet toothed, Alberta Rice made a very tasty batch and a half of Maple Syrup Bars.   Wayne Smith brought a fresh batch of Sliced Fukes floating in his secret Cucumber Dressing Recipe. & As promised last week, please enjoy pics of Margretta Day sharing her birthday with us.  Thanks to John Laubscher and Peg Masden for the snapshots.  (Apologies for the name spelling error by the artistic cake decorator, thank goodness It didn't affect the taste.)  Click on images to view expanded photos.

This class often becomes idea swapping and we learn by sharing our many experiences and I'll tell you all again, that really happened this week.
Thanks to all that brought in suggestions, asked questions, and helped with explanations.
 
 

WEB PAGE CREATION (BEGINNERS)
Rescheduled to:  September
Dates to be disclosed later.
Call KCnet at 893-8111.
Instructor:  Mike Foust

Music Creation
Starting when four students register--call 893-8111 to register.
Participants should be able to play a piano/keyboard by sight or ear.
Instructors: Carsten "Jon" Ahrens & Mike Foust

Orientation to KCnet
One-Session Class – No Charge for KCnet Members
Third Wednesday of Every Month 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Instructor:  Bob Fenton

MAC User Group
Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month
Time is 4:30 PM
Instructor:  Clair Falls

For more class details and to register visit: http://www.kcnet.org/class/
Registration can be done online, simply click on the course you are interested in and enter the information requested.  Registration can be done via phone 893-8111.
 

NEWS AND NOTES WITH SUE FOUST:

Tips for Donating a Computer We're always grateful when we receive a good, reusable computer that is donated for someone else's use.  We recently placed 2 of them in homes and the appreciation shown by the recipients is very gratifying.  We re-format the hard drives after saving the necessary files to operate the hardware.  We re-load the system and any software that can be legally provided to the new owner.   According to the U.S. EPA, nearly 250 million computers will become obsolete in the next five years. In 2001, only 11 percent of personal computers retired in the U.S. were recycled. o Each computer dumped in a landfill is a missed opportunity to provide Information Age tools to people across the digital divide.   Out-of-date computer systems can be more of a burden than a blessing to schools and nonprofits, as it can cost them up to $400 to bring a 4 year old computer up to today's standards. Donate computers to a recycler or refurbisher, rather than directly to these other groups.   CompuMentor is a company devoted to assisting non-profit groups with software and hardware.  Here are CompuMentor's Tips for Donating A Computer   Determine if your old computer can be reused. If you have a computer that is less then five years old, chances are that it can be put to good use by someone else. It works best for everyone involved if you can donate your equipment to a nonprofit or school-based refurbisher rather than directly to a charity or school, especially if you need to wipe your hard drive or are not sure of the condition of your equipment. Refurbishers will ensure that equipment passed on to nonprofits and schools is working well and runs legal copies of software. They also know how to properly dispose of non-usable parts, so-called "e-waste." Refurbishers work with newer equipment, usually Pentium II-level computers or newer that can run current Internet programs. If your computer is more than five years old, it will be best to send it to a commercial recycler, not a refurbisher.   Recycle old and broken PC equipment. Any equipment that is not working or that is below Pentium- or Mac Power PC-level should be tagged for recycling. Recyclers are businesses or organizations that remove useful parts and then break down the rest of the materials, as we do with bottles and cans. They also safely remove hazardous materials. Note: Some of these organizations may charge a fee to accept old PC's and equipment for recycling -- especially computer monitors. Clinton County Landfill accepts computer equipment in their recycling program.  You may call and get details about how to drop this equipment off at the facility.  At this time, I believe the service is still free.   Contact the refurbisher or recycler before donating. Call the organization or check for details on its Web site to ensure that it accepts the type of computer you plan to give away.   Remember the accessories. If you can, include the keyboard, mouse, printer, modem, packaged software, or any other accessories. Schools and charitable organizations can almost always put them to good use. Most organizations only accept complete systems.   If possible, keep the operating system intact. If you are donating hardware with a pre-installed Microsoft operating system, keep in mind that the license is only valid when used on the original machine on which it was first installed. Since charitable organizations usually cannot afford to purchase and license new operating systems, a legal transfer (keeping the machine and operating system together) can be very helpful. Linux and Mac operating systems have different requirements, but we urge that whenever possible, please pass on the operating system software with all donated computers.   Provide the original media and documentation. It's helpful to have the original disks, media, and documentation that came with the PC when it was purchased. Include the proof of license, which will help facilitate the legal transfer of the operating system.   If you clean your computer of personal information yourself, it's best to use some disk cleaning software to delete your Internet browser's cache, cookies, history, your e-mail contacts and messages, your documents, your recycle or trash folder, and non-transferable software. The best thing to do is to use a disk cleaning utility that overwrites data so that is unrecoverable.  DO NOT REFORMAT unless you plan to discard the hard drive.   If the PC is still under a manufacturer's warranty, you can call the company's technical services and ask for specifics on how to delete personal files.   Follow PC delivery instructions. Many recycling and refurbishing organizations have specific locations where a PC can be donated, while others have delivery instructions they expect donors to follow.   Keep a list of what you donated for your records. Remember that tax season will be coming up. You are very likely eligible for a tax donation if you donate to a nonprofit refurbisher. Most school or nonprofit refurbishers can provide a tax receipt upon request. The tax laws pertaining to this are Section 170 of the Federal Income Tax Code, the New Millennium Classrooms Act, and the 21st Century Classrooms Act. Business donors can deduct the un-depreciated value of the computer, and individuals can deduct the current market value of a computer.  To determine the fair market value of a computer, go to the Computers "valuator" at http://servlets.edeal.com/servlets/PcEval.   Plan for future donations. Save a box from the recycling bin and use it to store the documents that came with your new PC. When the time comes around to donate that PC, everything will be in one place.  For more information, or to donate a useable computer, call KCnet at 893-8111. Until next week KCnet Board Of Directors Officers:   President Bill Raco, Vice President Bob Rolley, Secretary Jon Ahrens,  Treasurer Don Miller and Past President Judy Yoho.   Other members of the board:  Carolyn Carl, R.  Keith Kelly, Paul Korn, Donna Lannan, Amy Lapriola, Tom Livingston,  Ray McGill,  , and Rich Wykoff.

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