CTS on 9/21

At the last Carbondale to Cyberdale meeting, it was announced that Carbondale to Cyberdale would be going to a quarterly format instead of the existing monthly format.

The next Carbondale to Cyberdale meeting will be on Wednesday, September 21, 2005, where the tentative topic will be VoIP. The presenters of the topic will be Warren Heuman, Data Manager and Ann Smith, Sales Engineer, both of CTS.

“Business should only invest in technology if it can increase profitability and increase competitive advantage. Acronyms are flying all over the place in the technology world. VoIP is one of the most frequent ones. If you are confused or in the dark about VoIP, you are not alone. CTS will shed some light on VoIP and how it may benefit you and your business.”

Computers for $60

A multi-agency initiative designed to enhance computer literacy is under way in Carbondale: Writes Tom Woolf: "The Carbondale Computer Rehabilitation Program will provide families enrolled in the free or reduced lunch program in the Carbondale Elementary School District with the opportunity to buy a refurbished computer system for $60. The systems will include a monitor, keyboard, printer and software. Senior citizens residing in north Carbondale also are eligible for the program.

Sponsors are the Community Outreach Partnership Center program, part of Southern Illinois University Carbondale's Center for Rural Health and Social Service Development; Attucks Community Services, Inc.; the Carbondale Elementary School District; Jackson County Health Department; and Web Innovations Technologies of St. Louis. Attucks Community Services is administering the program.

Eligible families may register for the computer program during school registration, Aug. 9-10, noon to 6 p.m. at the Carbondale Middle School, 1150 E. Grand Ave. By signing up for the program, parents and seniors also then will participate in two one-hour sessions to introduce them to basic computer and Internet skills. Recipients also can sign up for free eight-week computer classes offered at Attucks Community Service's Computer Technology Center, located in the Eurma C. Hayes Center."

podcasting plods on

UPDATE: Interviews of business people on the Town Square about the demolition of the old Bank of Carbondale building on the corner of Main and Washington were interesting, but not digitally recorded because the individuals spoken to did not want their opinions recorded for posterity. Instead, plans for interviews with interesting people at "the best tables in town" will be arranged for the Fall.

Mayor Cole was impressed by the digital voice recording of the Historic Preservation Committee meeting earlier this summer. He's recommended that the City go digital in future meetings. The Mayor is also committed to Community Wi-Fi and webcasting City Council meetings, so that should be virtual reality in a month or two.