Showing posts with label technology. Show all posts
Showing posts with label technology. Show all posts

North City Tech Group: High Level Overview of Deep Learning

Sunday, July 30, 2017

The North City Tech Group will meet on Monday, August 7, 2017, from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at the Shoreline Public Library, 345 NE 175th St, Shoreline 98155. 

Everyone is invited, there is no fee. You may RSVP at our Meetup page, but feel free to show up without registration.

Presentation: A High Level Overview of Deep Learning

Deep Learning is the workhorse tool now being used in image analysis and speech to text translation, and it looks like its applications will only be growing. This talk will provide high level pass over the basics of neural network technology, how it is being applied, why has it recently become so effective, and where is it going.

Speaker Bio: Thomas L. Skillman
Biomedical Research Information Technology Directory, Benaroya Research Institute.

Tom Skillman is a senior manager of biomedical technology companies. He provides information technology leadership including strategic planning, research data management and analytics, strategic planning, financial modeling, and operations management experience.

Early in his career, with a BS in Physics and a MS in Computer Science, Skillman developed unique embedded real-time software flown in NASA satellites. Later, at Boeing, Skillman led significant innovation efforts that created computer models of high speed machining, developed AI based autonomous vehicle controllers, and patented advance sensor and signal processing systems.

In his current position as Director of Research Technology at Benaroya Research Institute, Skillman collaborates with research scientist to apply novel information technology to accelerate their research. This includes the design and management of the research data and analysis infrastructure, assisting researchers in managing, analyzing, and visualizing their scientific data. Applied technologies include NoSQL database, scalable cloud computing, t-SNE analytics, and custom VR applications.

The North City Tech Meetup is a free meetup, usually the first Monday of each month at either the Shoreline or Lake Forest Park Library.

North City Tech Meetups follow an every-other-month schedule. One month we feature a speaker and alternate months are general discussions. We meet at either the Shoreline Library or Lake Forest Library depending on their availability. You can check out the Meetup page for each month’s topic.



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Shoreline’s Clean Energy Technology Program awarded National Science Foundation grant

Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Students in Shoreline’s Clean Energy Tech program complete a mock installation of
a battery based photovoltaic system on the demonstration roof
next to the Zero Energy House on Shoreline’s campus.
Photo courtesy Shoreline Community College


Shoreline Community College was awarded a National Science Foundation grant to enhance its Clean Energy Technology (CET) program over the next three years.

The $168,242 grant will assure that the CET program is equipped to ensure students develop a skillset that prepares them for high-skill technology jobs in the field of clean energy. Careers in the green building sector continue to see steady growth, particularly in the Greater Seattle area, which surpasses the nation in energy management and systems technology jobs.

With the National Science Foundation funding, Shoreline Community College will upgrade its Clean Energy Technology curriculum to expedite graduates’ placement into energy design and management jobs.

The program will also include long-term project-based learning experiences to give students first-hand experience with authentic research and field activities that they will conduct once they are employed.

Another goal of the grant is to increase the regional awareness and interest in clean energy technology. Currently, there is no national title for a clean energy technologist. However, Shoreline's industry advisory board has identified a need for such a position and the grant funding will allow Shoreline to develop skill standards that align with industry needs.

“By developing a curriculum that addresses industry-identified needs and contains job-specific experiences — such as higher levels of software and engineering knowledge — the revitalized program will help students develop a skillset that prepares them for high-skill technology jobs in the field of clean energy,” says Louise Petruzzella, director of the Clean Energy Technology program.

The Clean Energy Technology program started in 2009 and provides students with a solid foundation in alternative energy systems, green building techniques, residential and commercial metering and control systems, sustainable business practices, and entrepreneurship.

Shoreline Community College was founded in 1964 with leadership from the Shoreline School District and on land acquired with the help from the Boeing family, Shoreline Community College offers more than 100 excellent academic and professional/technical programs. The professional / technical programs at Shoreline are closely tied to industry and graduates gain the skills that help them quickly find employment in their chosen field.


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For CRISTA Senior Living - It’s Never 2 Late

Tuesday, June 27, 2017

Cristwood Retirement Community Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for It’s Never 2 Late Program

CRISTA Senior Living proudly announces their state of the art technology partner, “It’s Never 2 Late”. IN2L is dedicated to making technology and the internet accessible and enjoyable for older adults regardless of physical or cognitive limitations. A proprietary combination of adaptive hardware, software, and content, IN2L delivers a person-centered experience that engages, empowers and inspires.

Thanks to the generosity of CRISTA Senior Living donors, residents are now able to experience daily neuromuscular reeducation, strength and endurance training, cognition and safety awareness in their assisted and memory care neighborhoods at Cristwood, the Shoreline community within CRISTA Senior Living.

Cristwood is one of Washington’s first communities offering this innovative platform. Stated Debra Hawkins, Administrator: ”The IN2L has been a game changer for our residents and they are flourishing.”

CRISTA Senior Living is a registered Christian Life Plan Community where over 700 seniors reside within the Cristwood and Crista Shores (Silverdale) campuses. Founded in 1949, CRISTA Senior Living is part of the CRISTA family of ministries, joining King’s Schools, World Concern, Christian Veterinary Mission, Seattle Urban Academy, CRISTA Camps and CRISTA Media.



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Music Technology Portfolio Show Friday afternoon at SCC

Thursday, June 8, 2017


Friday, June 9, 2017, 2:30 – 4:30pm
SCC Music Building 800, Room 820 (campus maps)
16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline 98133
Admission is FREE and everyone is invited (small fee for parking on campus)


Shoreline Community College second year Music Tech students have been working hard this year to not only complete all their required classes towards their degree, but also create a polished portfolio to use in their job search. Transfer students also use this portfolio to apply for bachelor degree programs at universities all over the country.

The college is seeing quite an increase in students pursuing other programs who are interested in acquiring the skill set for their personal, creative endeavors.

It's especially helpful for high school and first year students to see this presentation as a window into their future.

The projects are interesting, challenging and very creative.

These kids put in tons of hours to refine their work for the portfolio show. We would love for people in the community to know about this successful program that is growing so fast.

Music Technology Degrees and Areas of Study:


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Free Tech Help Workshop Saturday sponsored by SnoCo Young Dems

Saturday, June 3, 2017

A free Tech Help workshop, sponsored by SnoCo Young Dems and 32nd LD Dems, will be held Saturday, June 3, 11am - 1pm, at the Richmond Beach Library, 19601 21st Ave NW, Shoreline 98177.

Need some technology help? We are here to assist!

This is a free-form time where we will have people ready to help you with anything you need. Votebuilder - MiniVan - Facebook - Email - Slack - Twitter - Google Drive - Microsoft Office - ANYTHING!

We will have laptops, tablets, and smartphones on hand, but feel free to bring your own device as well. We are excited to help you however you need.


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The Internet of Things: Beyond the Hype

Tuesday, May 30, 2017

North City Tech group will meet on Monday, June 5, 2017 from 7 - 9pm at the Shoreline Public Library, 345 NE 175th St, Shoreline 98155 in the Large meeting room.

Everyone is invited, there is no fee. You may RSVP at the Meetup page, but feel free to show up with registration.

Program:  The Internet of Things: Beyond the Hype
In this discussion we will survey the state-of-the-art relating to the Internet of Things and try to separate what is marketing hype from what is production-ready and what is reality from fiction.

We will cover a large swath of the technologies and use cases from the ground to the cloud with professional insight into where the field is and where it is going. There will be some equipment show-and-tell and time for questions so please come and join the discussion.

Speaker Mike Maas is a Cisco Technical Evangelist focused on Internet of Things. He works in the DevNet team helping to facilitate technology access, content, and experiences to developers around the world. Mike has way too many systems, devices, and gadgets with never enough time to tinker with them all.

North City Tech Meetups follow an every-other-month schedule. One month is a speaker and alternate months are general discussions. Meet at either the Shoreline Library or Lake Forest Library depending on their availability. Check out the Meetup.com site for each month’s topic.



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The cybersecurity war needs more talent now, says UW Bothell cybersecurity expert

Tuesday, May 16, 2017

From UW Bothell

Barbara Endicott-Popovsky, Ph.D., executive director of the Center for Cybersecurity Assurance (CIAC) at the University of Washington headquartered at UW Bothell, says that the executive order on cybersecurity signed by President Donald Trump last Friday is a “critical step”

Endicott-Popovsky, Ph.D., says today’s executive order is a “critical next step to knit together the efforts of the private and public sectors.” Federal government agencies, she adds, has been “asleep at the switch – they haven’t been grappling with the problem.”

Cybersecurity vulnerabilities are one of today’s most pressing issues, she says. “Couple this with lack of qualified people who are prepared to defend, and you have a recipe for disaster.”

At University of Washington Bothell, CIAC is working to fill the nation’s dearth of cybersecurity professionals.

The University has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education through 2022. The designation comes from the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.

UW Bothell also offers two degree options in cybersecurity, including a Bachelor of Science in computer science and software engineering and a Master of Science in cybersecurity engineering.

Across the digital landscape, the federal government faces the challenge of creating partnerships across the private and public sectors so that, together, they can better address cybersecurity issues. 

“The private sector doesn’t believe they are a target,” she says. “The private sector believes the Department of Defense should be facing nation-state adversaries.”

But the nation’s infrastructure is largely owned by the private sector, she says.

Thus, “there’s not a recognition by the general population that cybersecurity is a local problem impacting them. She cited today’s ransomware attacks on hospitals in the U.K. as an example. Now, finally, we are talking about the problem.”

Learn more about the Center for Cybersecurity and Information Assurance.


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Masters of Evolution: the Promise and Peril of Genetic Engineering

Monday, March 27, 2017

North City Tech Meetup presents a speaker on the very current topic of Genome Editing (Genetic Engineering) Monday, April 3, 7-9pm, Shoreline Library Meeting Room, 345 NE 175th, 98155.

Bryan Bartley will speak on: Masters of Evolution: the Promise and Peril of Cas9 / CRISPR Genome Editing:

After years of quiet, incremental discoveries in basic research labs, Cas9-CRISPR genome editing has suddenly burst onto the scene as a potential disruptor technology.
Genome editing gives human beings the ability to rewrite DNA with potentially important applications in biomedicine and agriculture such as engineering disease-resistant crops, controlling disease-carrying insects , and curing inherited genetic diseases by modifying embryonic germ cells.

In this talk, he will provide an introductory background to the basic principles of molecular biology necessary to understand how this technology works. In addition, he will briefly survey work in this area at the University of Washington and discuss the ethical implications of gene-editing technology. 

Like all technology, public engagement is critical to ensuring that genome editing technology is developed with appropriate ethical, social, and legal safeguards. Will we become masters of our own evolution? 
Or does the specter of eugenics lurk in the shadows?

Speaker Biography: Bryan Bartley is a PhD student of Bioengineering at the University of Washington. His current research interests is synthetic biology, manipulating the genetics of the bacterium E. coli for industrial applications. His background includes biomedical research in diabetes, kidney disease, and cancer.

The North City Tech Meetup is a free meetup, usually the first Monday of each month at either the Shoreline or Lake Forest Park Library. This month’s event is Monday, April 3, 7pm at the Shoreline Public Library. The meetup is open to everyone. You may RSVP at the meetup page, and that is appreciated, but not required.


North City Tech Meetups follow an every-other-month schedule. One month they feature a speaker and alternate months are general discussions. They meet at either the Shoreline Library or Lake Forest Library depending on availability. Check out the Meetup site for each month’s topic.



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Expanded Special One-on-One Computer, Cameras, etc. Instruction Offered

Saturday, March 18, 2017

Personal instruction in computers, tablets, cell phones,
cameras and programs like email, Facebook, Skype
ClipArtBest.com
Instructor Richard Harrison teaches a variety of one-on-one sessions, by appointment, at the Shoreline / Lake Forest Park Senior Center.

He is pleased to announce that he has added Tablets and Cell Phones to the list of options available.

COMPUTER and CAMERA INSTRUCTION: Individual instruction with computer and point and shoot camera skills can be provided by appointment with our computer instructor, Dick Harrison.

Instruction is available for any of the following areas:
  • Computer (PC, not Apple) Basics and Intermediate, including instruction in Microsoft Word or Excel
  • Digital Camera Basics (for point-and-shoot cameras, not SLRs)
  • Tablets and Cell Phones (Android, not Apple)
  • Working with digital picture files, taken with a camera or cell phone
  • Email which includes sending attachments
  • Files transfer and management
  • Help with Facebook, Skype

You may use the Senior Center's computer or bring your own laptop. The Senior Center has a computer with Windows 7.

If you have a laptop with a Windows 10 Program, our instructor can help you. Just ask for the Windows 10 instruction time. Please remember to bring your laptop.

Make an appointment for instruction at the Front Desk or by calling the senior center at 206-365-1536. 
Appointments can be made for Mondays in one hour time slots between the hours of 2:00-4:00pm. 
Fee: $22 for Senior Center Members/ $25 for non-members (one hour minimum)

Cancellations: Please notify the center 48 hours in advance if you must cancel an appointment. Refunds may or may not be given.

A computer is available for use by center participants when not in use for instruction or if the room is not in use for a class. Check with the Front Desk for an available time.

Shoreline / Lake Forest Park Senior Center is located on the Shoreline Center Campus, 18560 1st AVE NE #1, south end. 206-365-1536.



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Coder Dojo program at Richmond Beach and Shoreline Libraries this weekend

Wednesday, March 1, 2017



Drop in program for kids to start to learn coding. Ages 7-17 (12 and younger with adult).
  • Richmond Beach Library Saturday, March 4, April 1, April 29, 11am - 12:30pm. 19601 21st Ave NW, 98177.
  • Shoreline Library, Sunday March 5, April 2, April 30, 1 - 2:30pm. 345 NE 175th, 98155.
Bring your laptop or tablet - there are a limited number of devices available for checkout.

More information at CoderDojo.com or contact librarian Leslie Carter

If you have experience coding and would like to be a volunteer mentor, attend the CoderDojo Volunteer Orientation on Wednesday March 1 from 6:30-7:30pm at the Shoreline Library (345 NE 175th Street, 98155).



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The Internet of Things: Beyond the Hype - North City Tech Meetup Monday

Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Mike Maas
Cisco Technical Evangelist
The next North City Tech Meetup will be on Monday, February 6th from 7 to 9pm at the Shoreline Library meeting room, 345 NE 175th, Shoreline 981553

 The topic is “The Internet of Things”. Everyone is welcome, there is no cost to attend and no membership required. RSVP is suggested, but not required, just show up if you can!

Presentation Title - The Internet of Things: Beyond the Hype

Speaker Biography
Mike Maas is a Cisco Technical Evangelist focused on Internet of Things. He works in the DevNet team helping to facilitate technology access, content, and experiences to developers around the world. Mike has way too many systems, devices, and gadgets with never enough time to tinker with them all.

Presentation Description
In this discussion we will survey the state-of-the-art relating to the Internet of Things and try to separate what is marketing hype from what is production-ready and what is reality from fiction.

We will cover a large swath of the technologies and use cases from the ground to the cloud with professional insight into where the field is and where it is going. There will be some equipment show-and-tell and time for questions so please come and join the discussion.

North City Tech Meetups follow an every-other-month schedule. One month we feature a speaker and alternate months are general discussions. We meet at either the Shoreline Library or Lake Forest Library depending on their availability. You can check out the Meetup.com site above for each month’s topic.



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Senior Citizens - get free help with technology on Monday

Wednesday, January 11, 2017

Are you a senior citizen? Could you use a little help with technology?

If so, stop by the Shoreline Center, 18560 1st Ave. NE, on Monday, January 16 between 8:30-11:30am.

Students from Shorewood and Shorecrest High Schools will be hosting a “Senior Citizen Technology Help Day” to provide FREE one-on-one technology assistance to senior citizens who want to learn more about using technology in their daily lives.

Computers and teen tech experts will be available for seniors to learn how to:

  • Send and receive emails
  • Create a social media profile
  • Skype video-conference
  • Send photos online
  • Watch online videos
  • Search for information
  • Use emojis
  • …and much more!

Seniors are also encouraged to bring any of their own devices (cell phones, laptops, tablets) that they need help with.

If you have any questions, contact Curtis Campbell by email or phone 206-393-4412.



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Technology assistance at local libraries

Saturday, December 31, 2016

Technology assistance at Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, and Richmond Beach Libraries - January 2017

Richmond Beach Library, 19601 21st Ave NW, Shoreline, WA, 98177. 206-546-3522
Lake Forest Park Library, 17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park, WA, 98155. 206-362-8860
Shoreline Library, 345 NE 175th St., Shoreline, WA, 98155. 206-362-7550

Computer Class: One-on-one Computer Help 
Date: Most Tuesdays
Start Time: 11:00 AM
End Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Shoreline Library
Description: Do you have computer or software questions? Volunteers are available for 30-minute one-on-one appointments. Please call 206.362.7550 to make an appointment. You may bring your own laptop, but TechTutors cannot provide hands-on or hardware assistance.

Computer Class: One-on-one Computer Help 
Date: Most Fridays
Start Time: 11:00 AM
End Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Shoreline Library
Description: Do you have computer or software questions? Volunteers are available for 30-minute one-on-one appointments. Please call 206.362.7550 to make an appointment. You may bring your own laptop, but TechTutors cannot provide hands-on or hardware assistance.

Computer Class: One-on-one Computer Help
Date: Most Saturdays
Start Time: 11:00 AM
End Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Shoreline Library
Description: Do you have computer or software questions? Volunteers are available for 30-minute one-on-one appointments. Please call 206.362.7550 to make an appointment. You may bring your own laptop, but TechTutors cannot provide hands-on or hardware assistance.

eReader and Digital Downloads Demo
Date: 1/6/2017
Start Time: 4:00 PM
End Time: 5:00 PM
Library: Shoreline Library
Location: Large Meeting Room
Description: Learn how to download KCLS eBooks to your eReader device or computer during this digital downloads demonstration. If this ebook downloading session is inconvenient for you, ask about making an appointment with staff for individual assistance.

Computer Class: Beginner BiblioCommons Library Catalog
Date: 1/13/2017
Start Time: 3:30 PM
End Time: 4:30 PM
Library: Shoreline Library
Location: Small Meeting Room
Description: Learn the basics of searching the library catalog, understanding your results, placing holds, and registering your account. Please note: this class is taught lecture style in a meeting room and is not hands-on. Please call 206.362.7550 to register.

Computer Class: Advanced BiblioCommons Library Catalog
Date: 1/27/2017
Start Time: 3:30 PM
End Time: 4:30 PM
Library: Shoreline Library
Location: Small Meeting Room
Description: Learn about managing your library account and BiblioCommons settings in My KCLS, advanced searching, using your Shelves and Lists, and how to participate in the BiblioCommons community.
Please note: this class is taught lecture style in a meeting room and is not hands-on.
Please call 206.362.7550 to register.

eReader and Digital Downloads Demo
Date: 1/29/2017
Start Time: 3:00 PM
End Time: 4:00 PM
Library: Shoreline Library
Location: Large Meeting Room
Description: Learn how to download KCLS eBooks to your eReader device or computer during this digital downloads demonstration. If this ebook downloading session is inconvenient for you, ask about making an appointment with staff for individual assistance.



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Senior Citizen Technology Help Day January 16

Wednesday, December 28, 2016


Are you a senior citizen? Could you use a little help with technology? If so, stop by the Shoreline Center, 18560 1st Ave NE, on Monday, January 16 between 8:30-11:30am.

Students from Shorewood and Shorecrest High Schools will be hosting a “Senior Citizen Technology Help Day” to provide FREE one-on-one technology assistance to senior citizens who want to learn more about using technology in their daily lives.

Computers and teen tech experts will be available for seniors to learn how to:
  • Send and receive emails
  • Create a social media profile
  • Skype video-conference
  • Send photos online
  • Watch online videos
  • Search for information
  • Use emojis
  • …and much more!

Seniors are also encouraged to bring any of their own devices (cell phones, laptops, tablets) that they need help with.

If you have any questions, contact Curtis Campbell or 206-393-4412.



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Computer Q and A at The Commons Sunday

Thursday, January 22, 2015

On Sunday, January 25, from 2:30 to 4pm, computer guru Brian Boston will hold a free workshop where you can ask questions and get user-friendly answers.

This month's topic is “Scams and Schemes: Telling Good Tech Support from Bad.”

The Third Place Commons is on the upper level of Town Center at Lake Forest Park. The workshop is held in the glass-walled Anne Stadler Room.


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Computer Q and A at Third Place Commons Sunday

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Brian Boston shares his computer magic in a session Sunday at Third Place Commons in Lake Forest Park Town Center, corner of Ballinger Way and Bothell Way.

Sunday, October 26, 2:30 - 4pm

Ask questions and get user-friendly answers during this free workshop. This month’s topic explores the timely topic Five Reasons Your Computer Is Slow.


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Having trouble keeping up with technology?

Sunday, June 29, 2014



Come to the Shoreline library for a demonstration on how to download King County Library System eBooks to your eReader device or computer .

Tuesday, July 1, 2014 fro 1-2pm, Shoreline Library, 345 NE 175th St, Shoreline 98155.



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Low cost computers and internet connection for low income residents

Wednesday, June 5, 2013


A new program from Interconnection offers high speed mobile internet for $8 per month, with a laptop computer for $149, or internet service only for $10 per month, for people who receive benefits from DSHS, such as food stamps, or are low income.

This program is similar to CenturyLink’s Internet Basics program or Comcast’s Internet Essentials program, which also offer internet service for $10 per month and an optional laptop for $150. But Interconnection Internet is totally mobile, you don’t need to have your own housing unit, phone or cable lines to do it. Low-income people who don’t participate in any government programs are also eligible. Even people experiencing homelessness can participate in Interconnection’s low-income internet program and have internet service on any device that can access Wi-Fi (laptop, tablet, iPod, smartphone, etc.) wherever they go.

You can get the service in person right away, rather than having to apply through the mail. The service is prepaid and there is no contract or credit check, so even if you owe money from past internet bills you can get Interconnection Internet. The service is through Clear whose well-established 4G mobile Internet infrastructure is available in most cities in Washington State.

Internet access isn’t usable without a computer. InterConnection’s ten year old computer refurbishing program ensures people can purchase a quality, low-cost refurbished laptop or desktop with their Internet service, complete with a Wi-Fi card, Windows 7 Professional, Microsoft Office and antivirus software. Laptops start at $149 and include a 90 day warranty.

In order to qualify for the low cost Internet or discounted computers, you must present proof of low income (less than $1,916 per month for a single person) or proof of receiving government benefits such as Food stamps, SSI, Medicaid, TANF, State Family Assistance, Refugee Assistance, free or discounted school lunches, etc.

You must pay for a full year of service up front –that’s $99 with a computer or $120 without a computer for one full year of internet service. They do not offer monthly payment plans. You must also buy the Clear modem at the same time. There are 3 different types of modems available: The hub modem which you plug into an electrical outlet at home and can connect to multiple devices at the same time costs $36. The mobile USB laptop modem which you can plug into any computer’s USB port costs $43. The mobile hotspot, which is totally wireless and mobile, fits in your pocket, is battery operated and can connect multiple devices at the same time costs $76.

The Internet service, modem and low-cost laptops are available at InterConnection’s retail store in Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood at 3415 Stone Way N. People can purchase a laptop, receive a pre-activated 4G modem, and personal instructions on how to set up the service, all at the same location and in less than an hour. Hours are 10 to 6 Monday to Friday and Saturday 10 to 5. For more information call (206) 633-1517, email or visit Interconnection's Low-Income Discounts webpage.


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PC'S ----> OVERSEAS

Wednesday, February 15, 2012


A group of Shoreline Community College students are collecting used computers in coordination with InterConnections, a nonprofit organization in Seattle. The computers will be refurbished and donated to charitable organizations worldwide.

Drop off your computers on Saturday, February 18, 2012 - from 10am to 3pm at Shoreline Community College PUB parking lot (there will be signs).


Sponsored by WPDSS Student Club and InterConnections.



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There's an app for that - Shoreline Community College goes mobile

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Actually, there are two apps and more on the way.

Shoreline Community College is going mobile in an effort to meet students where they are, wherever they are. Shoreline is the first community college in the state to launch full-featured “apps” for Apple and Android mobile devices. A Blackberry option is on the way and a Windows version is anticipated. The college also has a new mobile Web site.

In the coming weeks, the college will launch a new communication service, Connect–ED, that sends emergency and other important messages via e-mail, texts, voicemail to cellular and land-line phones and even to TTY-TTD devices for the hearing impaired.

And, they all tie in with the college’s existing learning management system that can allow students to go to class on their smartphone, iPad or other mobile device.

“These are big steps for us, but they are just first steps,” Shoreline Community College President Lee Lambert said. “Students have an expectation of this kind of service. We all have that expectation in our everyday lives, it shouldn’t be different when you go to college.

The new apps were created in partnership with Blackboard, the same company Shoreline uses for its online learning system. Both the Apple and Android apps provide:
  • Directory – Look up contact info for Shoreline faculty and staff, save contacts and e-mail to a phone or mobile device.
  • Courses – Access the class schedule for the current term, and the next term as soon as it is published.
  • Learn - Check in on class assignments and other information posted in Blackboard and even go to class in some cases with Blackboard Mobile Learn.
  • Videos – Tune in to Shoreline’s YouTube channel.
  • Images – See a sampling of photos from campus events on Shoreline’s Flickr feed.
  • Get Help - Emergency phone numbers and other contact information.

Connect–ED - a communication service that provides college officials with the ability to reach students, faculty and staff with time-sensitive information within minutes - is also being implemented through the partnership with Blackboard.

“Statistics show Shoreline to be a safe campus, but we must prepare for situations that we hope never happen,” Shoreline President Lee Lambert said. “The ability to have immediate communication during emergency situations plays an important role in the safety and security of our students, employees and the surrounding community. This new tool gives us that ability.”

Contact information for about 10,000 current students and employees is already loaded into the Connect-ED system. The college is sending a test e-mail and phone message on Jan. 17. A second test, a text message, will be sent Jan. 23 to students and employees who provide a phone number for texts.

It is important that all current students and college employees go to www.shoreline.edu/connect to confirm, change or add contact information and preferences for Connect-ED.

“Depending on the service plan, receiving a text message can cost the user money. So for that part of the service, we’re asking students and employees to go to our Web site and choose their preferences,” said Jim Hills, special assistant to the president for communications, marketing and government relations. “No system is perfect, but the more ways we have to communicate important and emergency messages, the better chance we have of keeping people informed and safe.”

The new mobile Web site was created in partnership with Hearst Seattle Media, the sales arm of www.seattlepi.com. The site includes mobile versions of pages about programs, cost, enrollment, online classes, photos and contact information. The mobile site also includes a link back to the main college Web site. “Hearst has been a big help in quickly getting the college into the mobile environment,” Hills said.

For students, the core is the Blackboard learning management system.

Blackboard Learn is Web-based software that provides students and instructors a set of tools to post class materials online and easily communicate with each other. Shoreline uses Blackboard to deliver its online and hybrid courses and to provide Web-based resources for many on-campus classes. Students can access Blackboard from anywhere they have Internet access.

In addition, Shoreline adds Blackboard Mobile Learn, giving students and faculty access to their courses, content and organizations on a variety of mobile devices including iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android, BlackBerry and Palm smartphones. Initially, Mobile Learn was available only for Sprint customers, but through an agreement with Blackboard, it is now available regardless of carrier.

There is no additional fee from the college to students for any of the online services, although cellular phone companies may charge for data services and text messages.

Ann Garnsey-Harter, director of eLearning for Shoreline, said the steps support all students regardless of how and where they attend classes. “While we offer four degrees completely online and one more mostly online along with eight certificates, these additional online services are available to everyone,” Garnsey-Harter said.

President Lambert has previously announced that Shoreline would move ahead with a virtual-college initiative.

In March, 2011, a 64-page “Blueprint for a Virtual College: Report to the President’s Senior Executive Team” was presented to Lambert and other college officials by Garnsey-Harter and Stuart Trippel, acting director of financial services.

The blueprint concludes the college should take an “approach that will build upon the College’s existing strengths: offering high quality online instruction at an affordable price. … Using this incremental approach, the immediate recommended goal is to improve existing online instructional offerings and to package them comprehensively, and – equally if not more importantly – to address internal process barriers in the area of student services.

“The mobile apps we’ve launched are milestones, visible evidence that we’re making progress,” Lambert said. “We’re following the blueprint, taking the steps necessary to make sure we’re meeting the needs of our students and the community.”



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