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Press Room These are press releases recently submitted
to Newspapers. The focus of the articles is very narrow and does not
necessarily represent the Clubs main activities, rather June Lectures June 4, 7pm: Google Earth and other free Google software.
Google offers a variety of free software that anybody can download. Google Earth is a stunning experience if you have not navigated the globe yet. It includes a flight simulator that can be quite challenging. Google Maps and Google Streetview also are interesting and very useful tools. Go sight seeing in the town your grandparent grew up in Hungary as an example. Google calendar another great free program that sends you email to remind you when your next Doctor's apointment is coming up. Picasa is a program that organizes all photos in your PC and let's you easily crop and improve them with stunning results. The last item of the night will be Skype, which recently was purchased by Google. Video chatting, fun and free, will be demonstrated. For more information please visit www.hcc.org or call (352) 592-0070.
June 18, 7pm: How you can have a free Website with free hosting
The Club will hold a lecture on creating a free Website. Microsoft Office Live is one of the Websites that allows you to easily build a Website using their free Website creation tools, then you will be able to also have your Website hosted for free. During this lecture a Website will be assembled from the beginning to the end. You will have learned enough so you can at home also build yourself a site in a few hours, it is so easy. For more information please visit www.hcc.org or call (352) 592-0070.
Featured Event of the Month June: Open Office
Open office is a free alternate software to MS Office. Why spending houndreds of Dollars when you can get it for free. You easily download the package of programs that includes alternatives to Word, PowerPoint and Excel, Access. The programs feel and act almost identical, so no new stuff is to learn just improve on what you know already. Joann Fruchione, the instructor, will give you an overview of the programs that the visitor might find useful. For more information please visit www.hcc.org or call (352) 592-0070.
June 30, 7pm, Simple Start from Quickbooks
Quickbooks is a commonly used book keeping software for small and medium sized businesses. What is barely known is the a simplified version is available for free. Even this simplified version is quite a capable software to run a small business or house hold, it handles the invoicing, receivables, writes the checks, balance the check book and makes your reports for the tax man. The lecturer Pat Turek is a professional bookkeeper and will answer questions as they are posed.For more information please visit www.hcc.org or call (352) 592-0070.
June 9, 10am Capture and Edit Video, burn DVDs
Do you have boxes and boxes of video tapes? Digital or analog in this lecture class you will see how this material can be captured, edited and burned onto DVDs. so this precious footage can be saved for years to come. You will see how clips can be partially deleted, music added, titles and credits inserted and much more. A class for fun. For more information please visit www.hcc.org or call (352) 592-0070.
E-Sword Coming Monday, May 19, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm, Dennis Carmer will hold a lecture class on E-Sword. This is a FREE bible research program. Dennis will show how to download bibles, commentators and dictionaries of many choices as well as how to navigate the maze of information and translations. This class is of interest not only for religious persons but anybody interested in history or literature. For information call (352) 592-0070 or visit www.hcc.org Ethan Pollitt Ethan Pollitt, a very young man from Spring Hill, was a recent guest speaker at the Hernando Computer Club’s monthly feature, “The Best of Free Software”. At this lecture class several interesting software programs were presented at the well attended event. Joann Frucchioni gave an overview of Open Office, a free alternative to MS Office, and Clint Pollitt spoke about Linux, a free Operating System. The Club’s Education Director, Brigitte Haag, assembled the topics and presented programs like Audacity, Log Me In, Simple Start by Quickbooks, MS Office Life free Websites, Google’s Picasa and more. The most entertaining presentation, though, was given by Ethan. He explained and demonstrated ooVoo, a program that allows video chatting with up to six persons simultaneously. While on the demo PC he invited other participants sitting in the audience to video chat with him using their laptops. Ethan is a gifted teenager, schooled at home by his parents. His technical interests were triggered early in life by his father, a Systems Analyst with IBM. Ethan is an applicant to the Bright Futures program, a state-wide high school scholarship program. He needs to show excellent SAT scores, a high Grade Point average and proof of Community Service to receive a four year college scholarship. When evaluating his choices for community service, he and his dad decided to invest their time at the Hernando Computer Club. At the club both of them are volunteers for all kinds of activities, from coffee making to lecturing and instructing. Soon Ethan will be the lead instructor in a Hand-On Class covering YouTube, MySpace, Blogging and more. For more information please visit www.hcc.org or call (352) 592-0070.
HCC helps Boys and Girls Club Joshua Kelly, the Boys and Girls Club's new manager, evaluated the club's Computerlab equipment and found that the lab PCs needed work. He contacted the Hernando Computer Club and asked for help. The Computer Club's Techies visited the the club, examined the equipment and suggested reformatting the hard drives and adding RAM. The picture shows Mike Sexton, Wolfgang Steinberger and Ron Purkhiser working on installing software on one of the lab PCs.
Gray Alexander, new instructor Gray Alexander joined the ranks of volunteer instructors at the Hernando Computer Club. He holds degrees in mechanical and electrical engineering, which do not really provide the knowledge and skill needed for instructing at the Club. As an enthusiastic member of the Club he had taken many classes, from learning the hardware in "Build Your OwnComputer" and "Repair and Refurbish" to many software classes. His love for all things computer grew steadily and he felt he would like to give something back to the club. He teaches introduction to Windows XP, which is one of the most important classes for the club, because if the member enjoys these introductory lessons, he/she will be interested in taking more classes after learning the basics. The photo shows Gray Alexander looking into the camera, Jim Rogers, Senior Instructor sitting at PC, and other Club members Tom Bjorkman and Mike Vazquez
Press Release: The Best of Free Software The May featured lecture, May 5, 7pm, is about software that is free and can be downloaded and used by anybody. In this lecture you get to take a peak how Linux looks, how free Open Office compares to MS Office. You will see how you can log into your own PC at home while vacationing in the Bahamas. You explore MS PowerToys, Web Mail, photo browsing programs, fly with Google Earth, do your books and manipulate music, video conference with 4 people at the same time. See how to convert everything into anything, and create the most amazing photo albums. Call the Club for info (352) 592-0070 or visit www.hcc.org
Record Setting Hernando Computer Club The word is getting around about the Hernando Computer Club. There has been record breaking membership growth with more lecture and Hands On classes offered than ever. The recent monthly membership meeting was attended by over 150 members and guests. The speaker, Gene Barlow, commented that he was amazed at the size of the crowd attending his lecture. The only larger crowd he has seen in Florida was at the Sarasota-Bradenton Computer Club meeting, which is Florida’s largest computer club. Gene gives informative sales presentations about computer related items at computer clubs all over the United States. The Hernando Computer Club now is one of Florida’s largest computer clubs. This success is due to the current hard working Board, under the leadership of Don Karslake, the great volunteers and a group of 19 dedicated instructors. Four of the club’s instructors went to Zephyrhills, where the Florida Association of Computer User Groups (F.A.C.U.G.) held its Spring Conference. Not only did they participate in the various planned events, but they lectured to instructors from 32 other Florida computer clubs. This was the largest group of presenters of any club at the conference. Brigitte Haag, Hernando Computer Club’s Education Director got the highest marks of all presenters at the event. Check out what the club has to offer to everyone, beginning or advanced computer user. Call 352-592-0070 of visit www.hcc.org
How to put emergency information on a Flash drive How to Put Emergency Information on a Flash Drive April 14 and 16 at 1pm the Hernando Computer Club invites the public to come to the club to learn how to put your life saving medical information onto a Flash Drive. Membership is not required and there are no fees. This demonstration is presented by Ron Purkhiser, facility director and instructor at the club, so that everyone who understands the importance of this can take advantage of the opportunity to see how it can be done. Why would this be important? Recently an evening at the club was dedicated to the use of Flash Drives, also called Thumb drives, for storing medical and asset documentations. Imagine carrying a flash drive on your key chain that contains your name, medication, and other emergency information, that can be retrieved by medical personnel and that provides life saving information. Doctor Natasha Haag, an Internist in Bethesda Maryland explained, that deaths occur when unconscious people receive the wrong medication due to lack of information. Just knowing the medication a person takes is of utmost importance for successful emergency treatment. The picture features the speaker of the evening Pam Harris, Hernando County Emergency Planner. She gave a lively presentation in Emergency Preparedness. Chris Kingsley, County Commissioner, member of the club, attended the event and said that he will support the use of Flash Drives by conveying the idea to the County’s Fire Departments and First Responders. For information cal the Club 352-592-0070 or visit www.hcc.org
Family Tree Maker
On April 2, at 7pm, the Hernando Computer Club is introducing now a monthly feature that is held on a Wednesday to accomodate everybody who cannot come on a Mondays.
The subject is new for the Club. Charleen Lafferty will present a lecture on The Family Tree Maker. A program that makes is easy to discover, perserve and share your family history. You can built a tree with names, dates, puictures, events, audio and video files and much more. Many template create beautiful ancestry maps. The same subject is also offered as Hands-On Class. Please call the Club at (352) 592-0070 or visit www.hcc.org for information
Press Release
The Florida Association of Computer User Groups recently held its Spring Conference in Zephyrhills. Over 30 of Florida's computer clubs sent delegates to this seminar so that leaders and instructors of such clubs can further their skill and knowledge over a wide variety of topics. The Hernando Computer Club made a stong showing. Ron Purkhiser, Mike and Nacy Sexton and Brigitte Haag not only attended the event to learn about their fields, they were actually asked to come and hold lectures in the following subjects: PowerPoint, GPS, Windows Vista, Computer Basics. The word obviously got around that our Hernando County club has excellent instructors. All 4 were very well received and felt good to show off their club and contribute to the richness of this event.
How a Flash Drive Can Save Your Life The Hernando Computer Club is holding a lecture March 24 at 7 PM about using a Flash Drive, attached to your key chain, to store your vital medical information. This might well be the club’s most important lecture of the year. The subject has already received attention from the press and county officials. An interview with Don Karslake, the club’s president, recently aired on Channel 9. Pam Harris, the County’s Emergency Planner, will be one of the keynote speakers for the evening discussing emergency preparedness. It has long been known that in case of health emergencies, paramedics, doctors and hospitals need life saving information about your health and they need it right away. What allergies do you have? What medication are you taking? Who is your primary doctor? Who should be notified if you are in an accident? The “File of Life” project has been in existence for quite some time. It is a piece of paper containing just such information which is placed in a red plastic pouch and attached to your refrigerator door with a magnet. A copy is carried in your wallet. The Hernando Computer Club wants to take this idea a step further and suggests storing this information on a Flash Drive that will be attached to your key chain. During the evening, Ron Purkhiser will demonstrate how this can be done. Two follow-up meetings are scheduled, where members and the public are invited to come to the club to learn and practice placing files on a Flash Drive, free of charge. Another topic that will be covered is how proper asset documentation can save you thousands of dollars in case of emergency when dealing with the insurance claim forms. This information can also be placed on a Flash Drive; easy to take with if you must evacuate your home. Please visit the club’s Website to see the interview by Ferdinand Zogbaum. Schedules and other information: www.hcc.org or call (352) 592-0070.
PRESS RELEASE 2008
Perfect Backup Approach Making regular backups of your computer’s hard drive is the most important thing you should do to protect and maintain your computer. Without a good backup in place, you will "loose" your important data files and your computer will not run properly after a hard drive failure. With a good backup, you can be back up and running again in minutes with all of your important files in place after your hard drive fails. Backup technology has improved significantly in the past few years, so that it is much easier to do backups today than a couple of years ago. Using the latest technology will give you the best backups and be the easiest to do. Our presentation this month covers the best backup approach to use to do your backups. You will find out what is the best hardware media to use to save your backups on. Then you will see the best backup software available today to do backups and what backup approach works best using that software. You will also learn how often you need to do backups and how to automate your backups so that you don’t have to think about them. Next, you will see how easy it is to recover one or more files from your backup media and how to get them back to your main hard drive. You will also learn the steps to restore your entire hard drive in case your main hard drive crashes. A backup is no good if you can’t easily restore your lost files and hard drive. Knowing how to properly restore a backup is very important to understand. Finally, the presenter will explore with you a couple of the more advanced backup considerations. One approach shows you how to set up a separate data partition in which to store your personal data files. He will also discuss the advantages of having local and remote backups to protect your system in all situations. Understanding these more advanced backup considerations will make sure your backups are the best possible for your needs. Our presenter is Gene Barlow. He is a very knowledgeable individual on the many backup approaches available to PC users today and can tell you which way is best for you. He is an excellent and easy to understand speaker and can reach all levels of users – novice through advanced users. You will find him an interesting and entertaining speaker as well. You won’t want to miss this important presentation to your group on the Perfect Backup Approach.
Hernando Computer Club donates a PC to the High Point Computer Club At the February member meeting the club had a special surprise for Charleen Lafferty. Charleen is a volunteer instructor at the club that holds lecture as well as Hands-on classes in a variety of subjects like Print Shop, Genealogy, Brain Games, Travel Planning, Windows Basics, Web Site Creation. She was a Kindergarten teacher and also trained fellow teachers in computer use for many years. But this is not all, as resident of the High Point community she discovered a need and took the initiative to start a community computer club there. She offeres weekly “Surfing Seniors” sessions and twice a month Basic Computer Use classes. The need for instruction is only one component of club activities. The other important fact is the there are computers needed. Working with donated machines that are quite old has limited her possibilities, especially after the community installed wireless Internet Access. She needs machines that can run at least Windows XP.
Recently a resident of the Heather called the Hernando Computer Club and donated such a computer. Ron Purkhiser the Club’s Facilites Director with his Techie team, reformatted the hard drive, fixed a few things and was contemplating who would be a recipient of this donation. The choice fell on Charleen. Her computer club serves her community and therefore this machine will be of use by many people. All in all a win-win situation. If anybody considers donating a computer, it must be an XP capable PC in working condition.
For information call the Hernando Computer Club at (352) 592-0070 or visit www.hcc.org
Hernando Computer Club receives Certificate of Appreciation Most Hernando County citizens are familiar with ARC Nature Coast, Hernando County’s Association for Retarded Citizens, an organization that provides highly individualized support to individuals and their families to aid them in achieving optimum personal outcomes. The Hernando Computer Club reaches out into the community by asking its volunteer instructors to visit and teach at the local Arc Centers. Ron Purkhiser, Mike and Nancy Sexton have spent time in Spring Hill and Brooksville Centers to demonstrate the many uses for computers for a variety of entertaining activities. Recently at the occasion of a formal dinner, Ron Purkhiser received this certificate that expressed appreciation to the Hernando Computer Club for its efforts. (not delivered)
Attention New SIG What is a SIG again??? It means Special Interest Group. These are meetings where people of common interest come together to discuss their favorite subject. In the digital imaging SIG (First Monday 7pm), most participants share some photos they have recently taken, or tell how they fixed some less than perfect photos, or enjoy a little 10 minute mini-lecture by the facilitator. Another SIG is devoted to Genealogy (First Monday 1pm). This is a get together of people who enjoy researching their ancestry. There is so much to learn and so much to share. Teresa Rose, the SIG facilitator, has done substantial research in this field and has a lot of know-how to share. She is the current Secretary for the Hernando County Genealogy Society and a participant in the West Hernando Library Genealogy SIG. Brigitte – do they call their meeting a SIG or something else. We should call it what they call it. SIGs are for members only and, if you’re not already a member, you can join the Club at any SIG meeting. SIG’s are $3 per meeting. Just drop in on Genealogy or Digital Imaging, but please call if you want to come to the Website SIG. See you there. Brigitte Haag, Education Director
Monday, January 28, 7 PM, the Hernando Computer Club will present its monthly featured event: How to create a radiant Newsletter with MS Publisher! Almost every club or organization publishes a newsletter, and someone of that group’s volunteers takes on the project. It can be quite a challenging task, because not only can the assembly of the Newsletter content be a tough job, but overcoming the software hurdles to create a pleasing document also requires some knowledge. The Hernando Computer Club wants to be helpful and is presenting a lecture on using MS Publisher program for this task. A Newsletter will be produced, starting from scratch, by setting up the pages, followed by how to insert text boxes, pictures and graphics, and how to make the pages vibrant by adding images and color to backgrounds and outlines. The many ways on how to get the project printed will also be discussed. The evening lecture promises to be not only informative but also entertaining. For information call 352-592-0070 or go www.hcc.org The Hernando Computer Club has so many new members that it becomes a challenge to explain to all of them how things work in the club, how to get into the hands-on classes, what Special Interest Groups are, and how much the lecture classes cost. So the Education Director, Brigitte Haag, had the idea to invite new members to a Newcomer Welcome event. There were 45 people who responded to the written invitation. They heard the instructors tell about their extensive backgrounds; they heard how the club works and the many activities they can participate in; they visited the lab with its brand new computers that can run on XP as well as Vista. They met their fellow newcomers, but best of all they got to enjoy a lavish breakfast put on by the enthusiastic new Directors: Jean Hook, Nancy and Mike Sexton. Check out the club on its Website www.hcc.org, or call (352) 592-0070 for more information. Computer Club’s Largest Event Coming The Hernando Computer Club is always looking for opportunities to do good things for the community. In the past, the techies assembled PCs from used donated equipment and provided thousands of dollars worth of computers to various charitable organizations. Currently the Club’s greatest assets are its volunteer instructors. Most Hernando County citizens are familiar with ARC Nature Coast, Hernando County’s Association for Retarded Citizens, an organization that provides highly individualized support to individuals and their families to aid them in achieving optimum personal outcomes. When the Club heard that ARC would welcome one of our instructors, Ron Purkhiser did not think twice and went to offer free instruction in basic computer use. Debbie Bruce and Debbie Weaters, coaches at the center, were delighted with the response of the customers and asked him to come back. As a latest project, he used digital images that were taken at the organization’s recent talent show and created a stunning slide show, with fun transitions and music, to the delight of the group. A CD was burned and now the talented participants as well as the spectators can enjoy the show again and again. A win-win situation where all involved are happy and satisfied. The Center has asked Ron to come again for two more sessions next month. Hernando Computer Club is looking for other organizations to host free guest lectures on computer use. Please contact the Club’s Education Department, 686-0750, and visit www.hcc.org for information.
Caption to photo: Quickbooks, Featured lecture event of November The Hernando Computer Club strives to provide training in subjects that the membership requires. Several inquiries had been made for information on a program named Quickbooks. This is an accounting software that helps to track your banking account acivities and Credit Cards. It is also a simple way to start manage the financial side of your business. Come to this lecture, Monday November 26, 7pm, and see how QuickBooks makes it easy to create invoices, track sales and expenses, print checks, automates your payroll activities. If wanted it also keeps track of your inventory, times purchase of supply and much more. The best part of using an accounting software is that at the end of the year, you print a few reports and you are all set for your CPA. The lecture will demonstate how helpful your computer can be in letting you see how you are doing privately or in business.
New Vista capable PCs in time for the Club EXPO The pressure is building up for the Hernando Computer Club to provide Hand-On training for Windows Vista and the new updated Vista ready programs like the new MS Office 7. For months now Vic Symonds offers lecture classes on various aspects of the new Vista Operating System every month and these became the most visited lectures lately. The Club even is holding already Hands-On-Your-own-Laptop classes in the Lab lead by Ron Purkhiser. But still, nothing is as effective as the Hands-On Class operating on the same software to learn something new. Although the existing lab computers recently got a bunch more RAMs, so they could handle high end photo manipulation with Adobe Photoshop and Video Editing with Adobe Premiere Elements, still they are not capable enough to handle the new Vista. So the Club now will have built 5 very capable new PCs in time for the
upcoming Club EXPO on October 15. Vic Symonds and his Techies, Wolfgang
Steinberger, Jim Rogers and John Hectus will in assembly style work create
this new technological wonders. From Fire Wire, DVD Writers, to Card
Readers, these machines will feature all the bells and whistles. They will
run on Windows XP as well as Windows Vista just as needed. During the Expo on October 15, the instructors will have displays, where they show the subject they teach and are available to everybody with questions.
Intro to Vista The featured Event for August is a lecture by Vic Symonds introducing
Windows Vista, Microsoft’s new operating system. This is the software that
enabled you to interact with your PC or Laptop. If you buy a PC or
laptop today most like Windows Vista will be installed. If you want to
upgrade the machines you are using now to Vista go to the Microsoft
Website and have your PC checked out if it is ready to handle the new
software, and with programs might need updates so they function in Vista
as you want them to function. Vic will introduce you to all the major
changes and improvements. There are Benefits to using Vista, It is safer,
more entertaining, better connected. What are the areas you see changes?
Communication, Gaming, Music, TV and Movie, and Memory management.
All in all after you have attended the lecture you will be much better
informed and prepared to know what you can expect from an upgrade or new
PC. Hernando Computer Club goes Wireless At the recommendation of the Facilities director Ron Purkhiser, the Hernando Computer Club added a wireless network. The easy part was purchasing the router and the hard part is installing the addition to the existing hard wired network. Here came Dave Curtis, a Senior instructor and Techie with the Club, owner of Brooksville Computer, a networking company, and volunteered his time and expertise to install and proof the wireless system. Several opportunities are opening up now for the Club. New kinds of classes can now be held that are a middle thing between lecture and hands-on classes. Everybody who recently purchased a lab top most likely has to acquire new skill using Vista. No better place than coming to the Club and take Introduction to Vista. You bring your labtop to the lecture hall and Vic Symonds, the Club’s Vista specialist, will make exploring the new operation system a refreshing venture. Following the demonstration by doing on your own machine, what better way to learn is there. There were concerns about the safety of wireless connections, but as it was explained recently by Steve Herzman an Internet Security specialist at a lecture class he held at the Club about Internet vulnerability, each router added to a network represents another level of additional security. Wireless networks are more secure than hard wired kind. The Hernando Computer club is the place to learn everything about computers. The next featured event April 30, 7pm, is a lecture named: What you can find out about your Real Estate. An online guide of places you can go to find out everything you want to know about your and your neighbor’s home. HERNANDO COMPUTER CLUB HAS SUPPER AND
AUCTION
On Monday evening, June 4, the Hernando Computer Club enjoyed a social evening with the members which included a Chinese Auction along with a pot luck supper. The Hernando Computer Club, 13400 Montour St., Brooksville, usually filled with attentive members learning how to operate their computers, put aside their books and lessons on computers and had a wonderful evening socializing with each other. Although they are serious with their computer learning, they also enjoy some fun and games. There was entertainment for all provided by the
talented quartet of men named Tom Russo, Pat Russo, Dennis Boff and
Ed Gallaway. The auction was entertaining in itself as the numbers of
winning tickets were called out for many items donated to the club, with
individual computer lessons offered by the volunteer Instructors, and many
donations of gift certificates by local merchants. Please see the
listing of these donors on the club's web site http://www.hcc.org/
The club welcomes those users of computers to visit the
general meetings, check out the schedule and attend a lesson.
Many hands-on lessons are available where the members sit at computers
fitted with all the up-to-date programs and learn the use of a computer
program in a closed session with a few other members and two instructors.
Getting this type of instruction makes the user more positive in one's
approach to computers. A large selection of programs is available to
members. The lessons are available mornings, afternoon and evenings -- see
schedules.
Directions to the club and schedules of both lecture
classes and hands-on classes may be located on the web site, http://www.hcc.org/. or phone the club at
592-0070 with your inquiries.
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PICTURE ENCLOSED: One club member smiles as his
number is called for a prize he had hoped to win.
What you can find out about your Real Estate
On April 30 at 7 p.m. the Hernando Computer Club, (Shriner's Bldg) 13400 Montour St., Brooksville, will hold its monthly featured event. Woody Marr, a Spring Hill Real Estate Professional, graciously offered to hold a lecture on how one can research facts about one’s home or investments. By putting himself in the shoes of a home owner, Woody will demonstrate how to navigate the many Web sites dedicated to provide information. Many sites just want your information, but others provide a wealth of information without any conditions. He will show how to find and navigate the Public Records of the County, where you can see who the previous owners were, how much they sold a house for, plot information, mortgage recorded, tax information, FEMA zoning and so much more. Other sites are dedicated to showing which houses are currently on the market in your immediate neighborhood and what the asking prices are. You also can find which homes around your property sold recently and for what price. It never hurts to know what is going on. He will also touch on the subject how to shop for a good agent and why, if you really want to sell, it is more promising to list a house than doing it on your own. What is this Multiple Listing Service? How does it help you? He will give hints about mortgage shopping and much more interesting information.
Woody Marr has been in sales and sales management and training for over 33 years. He is known as a world class trainer and coach and has published a book entitled “Relationship Selling”. Woody and his wife are very successful realtors with REMAX Advantage Realty in Hernando County. Living life to its fullest, he is an avid blue water sailor, master scuba diver, a frustrated golfer and really enjoys a backyard BBQ with friends!
Although this meeting is for club members, membership is still open for the month of April, and applications may be accepted that evening. Please call 352-592-0070, or visit www.hcc.org for more information and class schedules. The Hernando Computer Club's goal is to provide its members with low-cost training for everything computer related. The Club is run by volunteers who always strive to provide a wide variety of topics. The more volunteers who offer to be instructors, the wider the variety. Wonderful lecture and hands-on classes are offered, from Introduction to Computers and Windows to Web site Creation, or Introduction to Vista.
Elections Held at the Hernando Computer
Club
A new slate of Board members will be bringing the Hernando Computer
Club into the New Year. New energy has been infused and big changes with
challenges are in store for the club.
EXPO planned by the Hernando Computer
Club. MICROSOFT POWERPOINT PRESENTATION AT LOCAL COMPUTER CLUB On Monday August 28 and Wednesday August 30 at 7:00 P.M., Vic Symonds,
Education Director of The Hernando Computer Club, will be conducting
a Training Course entitled "Microsoft PowerPoint". PowerPoint is the
primary Presentation tool used by Schools, Universities, Businesses,
Industry, and the Government. It is extremely powerful and serves as
a great aid for any Presentation, Training Course, or Lecture that a
person may have to give. Each lecture will last two
hours. This course is held at The Hernando County Shrine Club,
13400 Montour St., Brooksville, FL. A map is available at the Hernando
Computer Club’s Web site, http://www.hcc.org/, or information can be
obtained by calling (352) 592- 0700. Members will pay the usual lecture
fee. We urge anyone using a computer for their business consider the Power- Point Presentation. It is suggested that users read about the Club on the Web site and fill out the application for membership. One might want to sponsor and encourage their employees to join the club, attend the lectures, and further improve their PowerPoint knowledge. Members will be on hand to welcome anyone interested in joining the Club (not only to learn PowerPoint but to take advantage of the many other educational opportunities on the Club’s schedule.) (George Gilette) Volunteer Breakfast at the Hernando Computer Club John Lubertowicz, president of the Hernando
Computer Club invited the Club’s volunteers for a fresh bagel breakfast,
which was held the morning of July 10 at the clubhouse. There are many
kinds of activities that the volunteers do to make the club work:. The
Greeter, Registrar, Set-Up, and Coffee Personnel, are the largest group
and perform the very important basic jobs. Then there are the technical
staff taking care of the computer and equipment maintenance, further all
the instructors who with enthusiasm teach there subjects on lecture and
hands-on classes, facilitators of the various special interest groups and
lastly the members who volunteer for the Board positions and take on
responsibilities. BUILD YOUR OWN
COMPUTER
Some people build castles with Lego blocks others enjoy assembling puzzles. Whether it be constructing model ships, embroidering or designing garden furniture the fascination with building and creating never ends. One member of the Hernando Computer Club, Paul Lutz, just recently experienced this satisfying feeling. With the guidance and instruction of knowledgeable and experienced Club "techies", Paul designed and built his own computer. Anticipating a "hit on his budget" Paul named the computer Armut (poverty in Ge  rman) but
fortunately due to rebates, bargains and careful comparison shopping for
parts, this state was never attained. Armut is a very powerful machine
with the latest bells and whistles. It is capable of editing hours of
movies, storing thousands of pictures and playing the most elaborate games
and doing just what he wants to do with it now and in the future
when modifications will be aided by his Design, Buy and Build
handbooks.Who is Paul Lutz? One might guess that he might have been a computer specialist. Actually, his careers in sales and university teaching did not expose him to any technical challenges of this nature. He tackled this project because it was a task he perceived and felt he had to do. In the process he began to understand the workings of computers and, most importantly, he  experienced the camaraderie and interaction with other computer
friends. There were 16 people in the Build Your Own Computer group,
14 of whom have completed their own custom PCs. Kathleen Back, for
example, is thoroughly enjoying her own production, Ginger, whenever she
boots it. And there are others such as "Ron Purkhiser who recently
finished Skip, a very elaborate machine. Jim Roger has completed three.
The first two ended up on the desks of his grandson and granddaughter so
he then, for himself, had to build Queen. Vic Symonds, the creator and
leader of the group, and facilitators Dave Curtis, Wolfgang Steinburger
and John Hectus would not let Jim build the same computer three times so
this very well designed computer has been another great learning
experience for Jim. Come to the Hernando Computer Club and embark on such an adventure. It may take a few weeks or months or even a year - you set the pace, but the process is rewarding and the completion is extremely satisfying. And, when you're done you'll receive a Certificate of Completion at the General Monthly Meeting. The Computer Club is a fun place to go if you really want to learn what your computer can do for you. For a minimal investment you can join the Club and attend lecture and lab classes and also special interest groups. No computer knowledge is required. Classes range from basic to advanced. For more information call 592-0070 or visit the Club's website at www.hcc.org. (Brigitte Haag) Creating Slide Shows with Your PC Did you ever spend a fortune to have a
video made for a recent family event – birthday party, family reunion,
vacation – with photos sliding by showing the fun, pleasant music playing
the background, and a narrator explaining what’s happening? If you
recently bought a computer that uses Windows XP, you will find a lovely
little program in your machine called Windows Movie Maker. This
program enables everyone to create just such video footage. You might
think it pretty intimidating to undertake such a venture, but this is
where the Hernando Computer Club comes in handy.Almost every month the
club offers a series of lecture classes called Introduction to Computer
Basics. These classes cater to people who are just getting started
with computers. This month, Jim Rogers, a senior instructor with the
club, is teaching the very basics of computer use – what the mouse does,
what the desktop is, how to open programs, how to organize your files in
folders, etc. As a part of this class he asked fellow member, Ron
Purkhiser, to give an overview of using the Windows Movie Maker video
editing software. Ron has enjoyed taking photos for years and he stepped
up to the plate to For video editing one can spend from $100 to $1,000 on
software, but then again you can use this simple little program that comes
with your computer. Join the Hernando Computer Club, attend the lecture
classes, or sign up for the Hands-On classes in the lab. Beginner or
not, there is always something more to learn. Anyone who enjoys a
digital camera and a computer will love the club. (Brigitte Haag) For more
information, contact us at 352-592-0070 or www.hcc.org. Radiant Graphics at the Hernando Computer
Club A very special treat is this informal class session, with
a program that explains how to make stunning graphics, create drawings
from photos, create animation, and assemble collages of photos, fun text
and clipart to dress up your stationary, your emails, your invitations and
even your website, if you are ambitious. Photographs are improved, sunsets
becomes brighter, shadows lighter, people look prettier... This program
that instructor, Brigitte Haag, is introducing, not only makes the
creation of all these graphics looks so easy, she also shows that actually
it is easy. All one needs, is to be shown how to do it and this is one of
the computer club’s purpose. This class has special entertaining value,
because it’s so pleasurable to watch these colorful happenings. Radiant
photos, colorful lettering, bright clipart is developing on the screen
right in front of your eyes.
All volunteer instructors are qualified by their knowledge
in the various programs. Brigitte Haag is a graphic artist whose
specialization is the design of Web presentations. Originally trained as
in educator with emphasis on mathematics, she has been working for many
years as an artist, photographer and designer. Her presentation is
entertaining and informative.
Are you new to computers?...or are you an expert? There is
always something to learn at the Hernando Computer Club. Call
(352) 592-0070 or visit the club’s website at http://www.hcc.org/ for all upcoming
events. The volunteers of the Hernando Computer Club, located in
the Shriner's Club Bldg., 13400 Montour St., Brooksville, are putting a
lot of effort into informing and educating the general public. For the
price of membership and a modest fee per lecture class, everybody can
learn by watching the instructor explain the features of various programs,
Popular subjects are Image Manipulation, Word Processing, Home Video
Editing, and more. During Lecture classes, the instructor is working on
his/her PC facing the group but focused on the monitor, while the large
screen that's on the wall shows everything happening. Other special
classes in our Lab introduce you to the very basics of using a computer,
and many other commonly used programs, where each of five students works
hands on at the club’s equipment with one or two instructors there to
help. Dave Curtis recently received recognition for his extensive volunteer work for the Hernando Computer Club. He tirelessly teaches classes, maintains computers, and seems to be always there when help is needed. He acquired his extensive knowledge and experience first by graduating from the Chubb Technical Institute (which was located within 200 feet of the base in the World Trade Center) in the Spring of 2001 after majoring in Networking Engineering and Data Communications. He also completed training in Cisco (CCNA Certified) as well as training in PIX firewall and CCNP certification course work from InterCert Technical Institute in Manhattan in 2003.In his professional career he demonstrated his varied skills. At the Consortium for Worker’s Education under contract to the NYS Department of Labor he maintained almost 2000 computers on these networks, with close to 1,000 at the main headquarters in Manhattan where he installed and configured computers on the network, migrated user accounts, performed updates and network troubleshooting, as well as solved application and computer operating system issues for his share of the thousands of computers in one of several corporate office sites. He was also employed as a Network Administrator at the Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum. Then came the call of his mother Helga Curtis, 85, a native of New York City who lives in Brooksville already for 24 years. She has a colorful work history ranging from writer to fashion designer is actively volunteering in the community. She teaches an art class for the county recreation department at Delta Woods and supports the East Hernando Library with her volunteer efforts there. So in 2004 Dave moved to Brooksville to be close to his mother. Dave today owns and operates Brooksville Computer. He has installed and maintained network systems for many customers including various real estate firms, legal offices, medical offices, engineering firms, and such. He also provides Web hosting and Website services, a new skill he added after his customers requested support in this field as well.Dave’s outgoing personality is unusual for a network specialist, his people skill were developed early when he made his living tending and managing bars and restaurants, beginning with an assistant manager position in one of the Riese Brothers BOSS restaurants in NYC back in 1979.Volunteer work always was part of his life. When he was still living in Manhattan he performed volunteer work teaching computer skills to the blind at the Lighthouse for the Blind. Now here in Florida he has also taught computer with the Hernando Public Library system and has been asked by the director of the Hernando Library IT Department to teach at the West Hernando Library after they open their new branch library in West Hernando. He was awarded twice last year by the Board of County Commissioners for his volunteer efforts with the Library system and with the Recreation Department working with children. Why do some people enjoy unpaid volunteer work, if they could concentrate all their effort on making money instead? He said he is trying to make a difference in the world and make himself a better human being. And then he simply finds instructing people enjoyable. Join the Computer Club there is always more to learn……. And Dave with many other volunteers will be there for you. (Brigitte Haag)
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Many of the volunteers came and enjoyed the generous breakfast
donated by the president and chatted away as their job often does not
allow when performing their duties. John gave an overview over the goings
on of the club. In the following discussion Vic Symonds expressed the
value of voluntarism and made everybody feel good about their efforts to
further the good cause. Another major subject was the evaluation of the
newly overhauled Web site. A computer club has resources in their teaching
staff and this club has a technically advanced Web site with fun animation
and plenty of information thanks to the effort of several caring volunteer
specialists like Dave Curtis, Don Halloran, Ron Purkhiser, and the
Webmaster, Brigitte Haag.. The web site is www.Hcc.org. Phone
352-592-0070The next upcoming event is “Excitement for your Screen” an
overview of software available to create interactive animations and
advanced video editing, which will be an entertaining evening. .On October
9, the public is invited to the Club’s Free Open House which
will be held to inform the public what a Computer Club can do for
everybody. (Brigitte Haag) 
give a very informative
demonstration. Using pictures he had recently taken at a State Park,
Ron showed how to drag photos onto the time line, add some fancy
transitions from photo to photo, and add some soothing music. It all
seemed pretty easy to do. Then he finalized his show and it was
ready to go. His options? He could e-mail it, place it onto a Web
site, or simply burn a DVD that he could mail to family and friends to be
played on their DVD player. The spectators gave a loud round of applause
when Ron finished his presentation. They loved what they saw.
