Addicted to Social Media

Formally announced by Mashable, on August 8, 2007, an innovative social website established residency on the Internet; a release said to be of global proportions, within a era proceeding the current revolutionized social media saturation, with appeal sectioned to a restricted target audience of networking women –- without exposing their restrictions in text, a gender defined name of Sk*rt summed up a newly created URL that cutesy replaced the asterisk with a hyphen. With a fundamental motivation in providing socialization through continual user bookmarking, this estrogen packed haven was designed to mimic the behavior of bookmarking contender Digg; appearing as a chocolate covered appetizer, the platform débuted itself in 2007 at Chicago’s BlogHer symposium. Showing a little leg for maximum exposure; ladies of a global populace spread themselves, socially, by sharing websites of interest — appealing to the other females, with of ease commenting this lead to socializations. Each publicly posted for the friendly content madams to vote up -– yet modest, unlike Digg, Sk*rt contained no option to vote down another’s famed glory. Functionally, shaped from Digg’s an attractive toolbar booklet provided users with nail salvaging ease; allowing a simplified single click submission – mining gold, descriptions were free to be added after this action. Daily gossip; crowned, most popular by gaining the most votes, dolled up the homepage to capture the attention of those with like minds — content was also sent out in a spree, via RSS feeding. Sk*rt, as a social network qualifier, allowed was the ability to increase user interpersonal communications by creating of a home sweet socialization experience; where a user could add and clear clutter in a simple step –- dilating their network with custom augmentations. While Digg penetrates vast categories of added user-generated content shares, for the greater good, Sk*rt had idiosyncratic categories at a limit for its women; home and lifestyle –- by eliminating the technological atmosphere, full focus was put upon the charmed role of the female user –- adding to sanitary interests of the feminine mind, users could even indulge in full participation of contests based upon their account activity –- marketing, to insure proper sustainability for a impregnated 40 weeks. Sk*rts gestational age, that of a fetus in the warmth of a womb ended with these mothers being portrayed as new-age name heisting criminals, by corporate America.

Leaving many to ask what happened, the full story is difficult to find information on; its events remindful of the bodies own episiotomy. As growth bloomed, the three mommy blog creators let their hair down, satisfied with their cookie cutter creation; a move that would be torn apart in May 2008. Balancing on a single stiletto; Ms. Laurie Smithwick, Ms. Gabrielle Blair, and Ms. Laura Mayes were knocked off their pedestals by Skirt Magazine and their enterprise owner — Morris Publishing. Threatened by a team of corporate lawyers, these women, found their playground in the laundry bag to the cleaners –- in direct violation of Trademark infringement, an offence bringing a steep fine and possible imprisonment. With nothing to giggle and blow bubbles about, these mommy bloggers turned website “momentrepreneurs” fell from grace as criminals facing a fine of $500,000 –- starting off as defensive mother bears in protection of their young; quickly molded, after noting the zeros, quickly their silence brought full laboring compliance. Promptly leaving a on-board notice that “Sk*rt” was being “forced to change its name”. Fearful, of what was to come these mothers who started as tigers, ran to the comforts of BlogHer companionship; ending up silenced like lambs, in full compliance with strict manly demands — with these legality claims it was properly put on-site, in conjunction with the name change, that Sk*rt was not affiliated with Skirt Magazine nor the enterprise’s owners. Costly, this commonly made mistake was evident of the lack of research and poor legal fact checking prior to running in four inch heels with a self professed idea; friendly BlogHer sent out a notice also of Trademark violations when starting one’s own business using Sk*rt an example.  Putting their maternal minds together, these three ladies took off their pumps and waded with bare feet into shallow murky water of possible name changes –-  in a intelligent marking plan that was respectful to their female audience a contest was made out of this hellish situation, with ten names to choose from it was opened to poll voting and user submission.

Selected by an empathetic audience of teary-eyes, quickly a fresh name was chosen; and trademarks were looked into with great detail prior to getting into another heated super bowl brawl — the choice Kirtsy, winning by a landslide over possible alternatives such as the instant reaction of such legal mayhem “HolyMoses”. Operating with an additional cohort, Gwen Bell, a supportive BlogHer inspiration during a bloating time and twenty-five editors to seek content for a new site; Kirtsy speaks nothing, in the about section, of the handsome  corporate lawyers and near $500,000 diaper change that came with the course –- Trademark 101. Putting it all behind them for a positive media experience on brand new, top rated Kirtsy; their new beginning is here — this new rebirth showed positive for a wildly used and highly recommended networking experance.

More Information - Kirsty: Top Rated Social Media Bookmarking for Women

(Copyright © Social-Media-Addict 2009)

In a twenty-first century global crisis, the environment stands at high risk for a non-sustained future; several programs and upwards of a hundred advocacy groups have been implemented to change a globe in turmoil. A successful implication to this global emergency is that of carbon offset purchases, a financial base aimed at the reduction of green houses gases absorbed in the atmosphere –- a destruction already leading to global warming responsible for the melting of polar ice caps. Operating in a danger zone, these greenhouse gases have been responsible for heating the earth; raising the temperature an outstanding 59 degrees (F) at current –- a number expected to continue rising unless something is put in place to stop this. Measured in metric tons, ones carbon footprint calculates six primary categories of green house gases; one wanting to participate in carbon offsets must first have acquired knowledge of their unique carbon footprint and the equivalent monetary value of the offset.  Operating in two principal categories, these offsets can be purchased by large businesses and/or government; the smaller can be acquired by individuals or voluntary markets. In example a white collar worker engaged in a large number of airplane travel may choose to purchase an offset for his traveling; or his company may choose to give more funding as an offset for each of their workers air travels.

In 2008, around $705 million of carbon offsets were purchased within a voluntary market; allowing for funding for wind farms, biomass energy, and hydroelectric dams –- as well as environmental research to be conducted. Within western counties, carbon offsetting, has gained appeal as more and more individuals want to participate in saving the Earth they live on. Cheaper than an alternative to reducing the total fossil-fuel consumption, offsets, are purchased by many like gift cards to our vast environment. Renewable energy, methane abatement, reforestation, fuel switching, and energy efficiency; as well as over two-hundred various projects have seen the benefits of this method in correct humanities wrongs.

Leading to the improvement of the quality of humanity and a sustainable future, offsets prove successful in helping to reduce carbon footprints; by lowering greenhouse gas pollution, preservation of foresting, education for children in the importance of environmental awareness participation, and more. In a project, designed to help future generations; carbon offset purchasing has found prestige in many catagories; such as that of reforesting which allows for more oxygen to be put into our air –- a waste products of living plants that allow for the continued existence of humanity.

To purchase a carbon offset, as said above, one must be aware of their carbon production; this varies from person to person. Within an accredited site, calculations of the total footprint must be done; with honesties. Third, a person must know how carbon offsets work to provide a balance of the impact of the footprint discovered. Lastly, a quality provider for these offsets must be found; precautions must be took due to the large market, so that the donation of an offset has an intended impact on our Earth. It is recommended that prior to a purchase many comparisons should be made; sites such as EcoBusinessLinks and Carbon Catalog make offsetting much easier to evaluate the options that currently exist. Within minutes, confirmation will be made of the credit card purchase; and the buyer will be left influenced by his/her contribution.

Do your part today, to save the environment for tomorrow.

(Copyright ©  Social-Media-Addict 2009)

In accordance with participation with environmental awareness, there are a number of ways to reduce the carbon footprint; a measurement of the number of unique carbons that are produced by day-to-day actions. Some of these, more feasible than others in cost; however the aspects of sustainable living are the objective within the following detailed list — also this summery of advocacy  includes tactics that are at no cost to the individual. As individuals we want to reduce our carbon use behaviors for the benefit of the Earth, however one will never be rid of a carbon footprint due to the action of breathing and living; these can only dramatically be reduced at free will.

-Regulate Temperatures: A two degree decrease in the winter and increase in the summer, will deeply impact the environment of a ton of annual carbons. A smart thermostat can be installed to automatically do the work, to insure the temperature levels are set in accordance. Settings also must be set when not at home, as there is no need to heat or cool while not at home, thus the thermostat can be programmed to discontinue its use during the summer months and set to a low setting in the winter to insure that pipes do not freeze.

-Water Heating: Lower the settings on the thermostat to 120 degrees, even a drop in two degrees would reduce carbons; water heaters should be weatherized and wrapped in an insulated blanket to keep heat inside. Showers should be quick so that water heaters should never be drained, for water and energy conservation.

-Refrigerator: Temperatures should be set between 36 and 38 degrees (F) with the freezer portion set from 0 to 5 degrees (F). The refrigerator should be packed tightly to reduce the amount of cooled air; as well as a remembering that if an appliance is not approved as an Energy Star device it should be replaced. At current these appliances should be no more than five years old, as older model products can be very hurtful to the environment as well as the energy bill.

-Dryers: Discontinue the use of using a clothes dryer in months of warm weather, by line drying your clothes; if no outdoor allergies are to be had. Items such as towels should always be line dried due to their construction to dry themselves and delicates such as panties can easily be lined dried. For drying that need to be dried cleaned, call ahead; making sure you use a facility that respects the environment.

-Dishwashers: While it may sound that it goes against this article, it has been proven by green certified testing that dishwashers are better than hand washing; as when hand washing dishes you consume more hot water; make sure your appliance holds the Energy Star label and do not use the heated mode on these appliances. Dishwasher use should only be for full loads.

-Clean Filters: Once a month any type of air filter should be replaced, new filters should have the energy approved product labeling; air filters in automobiles, heating and cooling units, purifiers, and so forth should be replaced each month to ensure maximum filtration.

-Reverse Ceiling Fans: In both the summer and winter month all ceiling fans need to be reversed for maximum air flow; a button on each fan is a simple flip for blades to pull in the opposite direction.

-Lighting: Incandescent bulbs should be replaced, throughout the home, with Florescent (CFL) or Light-Emitting Diodes (LED); these bulbs are at an added cost but reduce the price of electricity used as well as last four to ten time longer depending on the brand. Over a lifetime $30 will be saved by these bulbs, justifications for the added expense. CFL bulbs must be properly discarded due to the mercury, which can easily be done at a local Home Depot when in the area or hazard facility; LED bulbs have no mercury and can be disposed of regularly while lasting six times longer than CLF bulbs. When lights are not in use, they need to be turned off; and children need to be properly educated on why they need to shut the lights off.

-Power Management: Turn off all devices and unplug them from the wall socket when not in us. Most, have no knowledge that even when plugged in current is still pulled to that device; even when shut off. Cell phone chargers should never be plugged in, unless charging the phone. Surge protectors can be switched off when device plugged into them are powered down; these devices make it simple to unplug a number of devices at once — don’t forget a second step is unplugging the device from the wall outlet when switched off.

-Electronics: Count for up to 10% of phantom load electricity used in homes, when on standby mode; these items must be turned off and unplugged. Personal computer settings can easily be changed in the power management settings to save energy and reduce carbon when in use, but in an idle setting.

-Paper: When possible use cloth napkins and line dry these to clean, this will reduce the use of paper consumption; as an impact to the forests. Any paper items used should be recycled and bought recycled with labeling on the packaging. Reductions to the paper use can also be made by purchasing items that do not have packing material.

-Water: Reduce the water in your toilet’s tank by putting a single liter bottle in the tank manually; 300 gallons of water can be saved annually. Shutting off the water when brushing teeth can save an amazing 25 gallons of water per month. Also use low flow equipment.

-Microwave: Cook using a microwave, when possible, as a microwave uses less energy and produces less carbons then conventional ovens and stoves; especially for the heating of water for morning coffee or tea. Turn off this product and unplug after basic use. It is not recommended to use this appliance for every meal due to the lack of nutrients that are zapped out of the food; however every little bit of savings helps to reduce the footprint.

-Cool Showers: Instead of using the hot water in the insulated water heater and adding to the consumption of H2O, take cool showers; if healthy, while this saves both energy and water, it will also boost the immune system.

-Washing: When washing use the cool water setting, on an Energy-Star approved washer to reduce and conserve. Again, hang clothes out to line dry; if possible or if using a dryer always clean the lint trap prior to each load.

-Traveling: If able combine your local travel for clothes, home needs, groceries, and so forth; these should be combined into a single trip a week or possible after work. Trips to work can be car pooled as well as trips for needs. Hybrid cars as well as small vehicles can be purchased, for a higher gas mileage; as well as cars that operate on other power than that of gas.

-Banking: In a twenty-first century revolution for technology, banking can be done online; reducing the paperwork. Banking is on secure servers, which are safe; various programs can be used such as PayPal or other software.

-Weatherize Home: Caulk around windows and doors while applying weather stripping to these places; this is an easy fix home project. Install thermostatic valves on your radiators, insulate lofts with 180mm thick loft insulation, replace wall insulation with energy-star improved insulation, and insulate water heaters and basements properly.

-Reduce Travel: As mentioned prior, carpool to work and to do your duties that need to be done each week; reduce bank trips by banking online. For journeys in short durations, walk or ride a bike; this will provide healthy lifestyle choices. Reduce air travel, as air travel resorts in the emitting of many carbons; if you must travel call ahead for an airline that respects the environment. Rather than traveling by car, if possible travel by bus or by train; as mass transit aids in the traveling needs of many in a single trip.

-Healthy Choice: Reduce or cut out your consumption of red meat, this reduces the gases that are expelled from your body; as well provides for a healthy life. Eat local grown or home grown, fruits and vegetables; growing a garden yourself, in spring and winter, without the use of chemical pesticides will yield health and aid the environment. Consume organic produce as well as change your diet to include organic foods; eliminate processed foods without natural qualities. Stop buying pre-packaged products and foods from distant lands; think about your health as health has much to do about the environment.

-Recycle: As much as possible recycle and reuse; this drastically reduces waste that ends up in carbon producing landfills and causes environmental damage. Paper, plastics, aluminum, and cardboard should be recycled at all times. Special products such as ink toner, batteries, and electronics should also be properly recycled; there are special means for this recycle cycling. Food and kitchen waste can be reused in composting techniques that aid in fertilizing the soil; such as raw vegetables, crushed shells of eggs, tea leaves, tea bags, food scraps, and fruit.

Simplistically, there is only a single planet called Earth that we live within, a single planet only gives one shot to protect and conserve. Even without the abundance of finances a part can be achieved in the betterment of the planet. Do your part today, to help by reducing the print on your life, cleverly dubbed as the carbon footprint.

For more information check out- My Tips for Carbon Reducing

(Copyright © Social-Media-Addict 2009)

As a child of the information age, I am a platinum member of the mile high multitasking generation; often to lose my balance as I clumsily thumb through a hodgepodge of tabbed browser windows, database programs, socialization applications, gadgets, and background programs –- each multiplied, at times hangnails in my desktop taskbar. Engaged in the field of social media, I have a sophisticated addiction of acquiring new-age twenty-first century organic software that integrates countless functions into a single download; each built for the dynamic creation and preserving of interpersonal communication –-simultaneously discharging an arsenal of content, modified for my eager consumption, at random time intervals. Customized to marvelous perfection and attached to an external device of two terabytes, I never cease my amazement in the elegant performance of the main multi-functional technological device that is the object of devotion; one of many, networked, each customized to perform a particular additional function. Rising in the delight of the morning, prideful in my achievement, I rise with a remarkable thirst for knowledge as I take my place within a globally connected metaverse; a productive and professional young woman who has created a name for herself in the modern day society of technological involvement –- not just a journalist but adapted voyager in the vast world of networking. Quickly a bare task panel is congested with one browser than another, sometimes three, tabs begin to open along with multiple windows; database, electronic mail, chat boxes –- keeping on task as I glance to view the agenda for the day, feeling accomplished with each completed strike through. It’s no secret, often, I am lured off of my path of productivity by an interesting concept or selfish desire; even more so, with so many programs opened, I find myself lost within the navigation. However, as a professional I know both temptation and time; with strides in my pace I find myself back on task as I have allotted myself a flexible schedule knowing both intentional and unintentional placement. Personally, I believe the steps to professional productivity vary from person to person; each single individual knowing of his or own basic needs for production with a few commonalities –- I have taken the liberty to charting my own professional measures for productivity.

-Schedule Flexibility: Flexibility is a term that I, personally, know well as I cope with chronic pain and illness; first I found myself in a work environment that I could no longer function in, instead of giving up on myself and submitting to a label of “terminal”, I put confidence in good friends who encouraged me to pursue writing –- most telling me that I writing was my gift. I have prearranged flexibility in my, work from home, daily schedule which allows me the time I need without risking professional confidence; I have also allotted a patterned time to take breaks, both of these flexibilities allow for any sidetracks that may entice me from my agenda. I believe that in any schedule, for any person, flexibility is key; the twenty-first century society is a fast pace generation, non-scheduled nuisances are to be had and errors are to be made. Not only do I work around my chronic pain and illness, I take full advantage of my pain induced insomnia; working through a sleepless night with strict limitations that any time on the computer after midnight is designated for work only. Instead of being a citizen of social media, I shut off any outside interference and I work within peace; my best work comes after midnight and from a night of insomnia, as my focus is on a stricter foundation. Not everyone can work during a night of insomnia, yet point-by-point arrangements can be made for everyone to reduce outside inferences during work hours.  

-Personalized Notes: My personality is such that I must remain organized at all times, so with this I value and utilize taking notes; along with various Vista side-bar notepads I also utilize two other note programs, each of these contain notes on the same subjectivity as staying organized is a critical key point. In addition to various note pads, I believe it is strategic to have a game plan for the work week; beyond believe I take detailed notes, as a writer that will never change my spots, these notes I clear after the end of each work week unless they can be carried over or used for future references. For any professional precision is necessary even with note taking. In work we are given deadlines, each task needs to be charted with a rough deadline; I personally allow for one extra day for each task to be finished by the employed deadline, allowing me a boost in confidence when I get things finished a day or even two days early. Multi-tasking with two various fields, journalism and social media, that overlap slightly I plan my days or weeks to be devoted to one single substance; never do I plan by day as it only provides confusion — this confusion ties up tasks and allows for personal deadlines to not be properly met. As a professional, I never work on two different things at once, rather I devote my time to a single thing to respect what I do and do it to the best of my ability. However, tasks with the earliest due date must be done first; procrastination on critical tasks is far from that of professional in my opinion; rushing to complete work does not yield word of quality.

-Focus: As a professional, many things are demanded daily; however I have found it critical to only focus on the task at hand. Focus will drastically improve the quality of work and reduce errors; for example do not write a critical piece of work while watching a favorite sports team be successful in a sporting game. However, if my focus is interrupted then comes proof reading which I do a triple check of prior to a final save and one prior to submitting or publishing my work. I suggest professional’s triple check all work and utilize all utilities, stopping short of having a peer review the work for you. When focusing, I reduce all distractions; similar to that of a night of insomnia. After a large focus, I believe that one must treat themselves worthwhile and take a break in accordance with their focus. Most do not work well with loud music and see it only as a distraction of focus, personally I find that music is such a major part of my day-to-day life I must have it to produce quality work; I am in a routine and part of a focus is to not change that routine if a strict routine of habits is to be had –- some professionals do well with change, I’m not one of them and will be repeat in all of my behaviors daily. In example I wake up at 8am and instead of coffee, after a shower, I start with very sweet tea for my sugar buzz, to gain my thirst for knowledge I start the work day with Fox News and user generated content on various social mediums, turning on music is next and I process through my day repeating my habits; as I feel off base without these. However, as an individual you must find the proper routine that works for you, as the professional, each routine will be of difference in accordance with personality, interest, and work ethics. I keep the routine in my breaks, as well, unless affected by my illness; this is what works for me but is not recommended for anyone else. Due to my illness, my pain is worse in the mornings thus by 1pm I make sure I start my agendas as part of my routine; if I am ill I attempt to push myself but know that my work can suffer drastically if I am not up for the task at hand no matter how routine I keep it. I recommend for everyone, regardless of work, not to push themselves in any regard; work will always suffer to some extent.

-No, Just Say No: Phone calls are daily nuisances, this is the reason as to why I turn my phone off or refuse to answer the phone during crucial working hours; other nuisances penetrate our work environment and these need to be dismissed with a refusal. However, I find that the number one person that I have to say no to daily; myself. With the baiting of social media, I am often lured in to message after message of social communication; knowing that I have work to do,  any communication I do I have allotted the time for and will only do such if I have the freedom from time restrictions –- if I have no time allowed or if I feel that I may need extra time I say no and reduce the distractions.

-Keep Track of Goals: I keep track of progress on various mediums including that of social media; this also allows my network to have the knowledge that I am not ignoring them but rather I am attempting to maintain my professionalism. After each task, no matter how small, I keep track of this and make notes of the complication; this allows me professional confidence and also this shows me of the start time and the stop time to review. Goals should be clearly focused, in the best way possible for the one who makes those goals; each should be in reach. I have found the importance in reachable goals; if goals are too far out of reach they will be left uncompleted and the confidence level will only be diminished. Deadlines should also be reviewed, I do this each day even if I set my agenda for a week at a time; this allows me to see what needs to be done and in what order those tasks need to be done -– also this allows for what rate breaks can be taken. Negativity should be removed before it becomes a habit and also to remain professional one must remember to remain flexible and set the own pace based on individual needs.

Remember, it’s never to early nor too late to start a professional productive schedule for yourself; regardless of work, you are the one that knows your habits and mannerisms.

(Copyright ©  H0llywoodWh0re 2009)

With an avid thirst for knowledge, I tend to seek that knowledge; when the pain gets too severe as I believe self education can be used for a positive focus. In this twenty-first century society, a global establishment, social media has changed the way in which we function on the Internet. As a social media journalist, I often use my boredom and pain to seek knowledge about technology and social media; my two most preferred interests at current. I ran across an article today via social bookmarking medim, claiming to boycott Twitter; the reasoning behind this boycott the fact that Charles Manson held a fake profile and that there was a Twitter user with a username of “Satan”.

Myself, I am an opinionated young woman and I hold a high respect the people who develop their own individual opinions; and share those opinions. However, I am against social media ignorance. I myself have been involved in claiming  “boycotts” of either a product, software, utility, and/or service. Recently my loathing for Microsoft’s Internet Explorer resulted in a detailed blog about the use of a better browser; Firefox. In this blog I gave facts, links, and expressed opinions in why I believe that Microsoft’s IE should be boycotted; by those Internet lovers who love to indulge in the test of new software. However, I would never claim a boycott as a single person not involved in a group; giving no statistical facts with a basis being that Charles Manson dupes and the username of Satan can be allowed on the product.. — to be honest even with a group never would I claim this moronic ignorance.

Personally, I believe the writer of this “freelance boycott” was angry; that anger at herself for her own personal gullibility. Punished for his crimes, for his role in brain washing that lead to murders of the innocent, Charles Manson is serving a life sentence and logically has never set a first glance on the Internet; by date of creation and widespread use. With Satan being a phantom mantis, like one of a ghost I assume, logically there couldn’t be a usage of the Internet; personally I would think that this place “hell” would be far to hot for functioning computers and server connections…

This user went on to claim that she called the prison that houses Mr. Manson and was told that prisoners do obtain items in prison illegally; an answer to what I believe to be the writers belligerent query of “how did a prisoner [Charles Manson] obtain this device [Twitterberry]”; with every call, the call and complaint in question is taken seriously at the time of the call — prison officals must act proper, professional, and with respect. After the call they can laugh, knowing it is not possible; either because of prisoner, death row, or simple occurrences such as no Wi-Fi to the prisoners in cells — in this event I can only bet they laughed for days. Then she stated the ones to blame are the “groupies” that follow these people; my opinion is that the freedom of humanity on the Internet is to follow who you like, how you like, when you like. Random people, who are not versed in another’s stupidity of false claims against fake people, are not to blame for that stupidity; the blame again should be directed only to the suspect who believes and suffers from gullibility.

Twitter is a remarkable social network, I have been involved heavy in Twitter as a journalist since it’s mainstream media transition. I have personal experience with, and personal relationships with, those who work with their team of support; I know for a fact Twitter’s Service is top rated for those with legitimate claims. Twitter also responds well to the complainers that create incoherent claims for attention, such as this writer, as she claimed she did get a Twitter service response — one that said “This user is a fake and there is nothing to worry about” . You cannot base a boycott of a multimillion user network without supportive facts; those facts must concern a group and that group must declare a boycott. A a single person boycott is just, well, rather useless. I am one who protects my own online identity, and this I highly recommend for everyone concerned with Internet safety; as this “article”, or piece of garbage, makes me thankful that my real identity is in protective care — Lord forbid a play pretend facade contacts me to fluff up my dander, or the author to a boycott claim no better than that to line my bird cage with — as recycling matters!

For more information, via Digg.

Rating - ★★★★★

After wasting nearly four years in a relationship that should have never happened, I often think back to the past of mistakes I made; in this relationship one single thing delightful occurred, Firefox. This relationship, occurring years prior, transpired before my zealous obsession with computers and technology; as I wasn’t nearly as in depth with technology as I am at present. Stuck in a land of Microsoft Internet Explorer frustration, like many, I never was made aware that I had another option. For those novices to technology, software, browsers, and/or the Internet, in this twenty-first century many browsers are available to assist in ones Internet adventures — Recommended, highly by many independent users, is the browser Firefox.

Available for free download, Mozilla Firefox, has been revamped to bear the name of organic software; simply this means there is no compact disc, plastic case, paperwork, or box -– making this a approving environmentally friendly browser. Firefox is classified under the label of open source software; an approach to getting users more involved by allowing them the freedom to design, develop, and distribute their own updated advancements for — personal gain or in the community. As the second most popular web browser, in 2009, Firefox runs at a much more rapid speed than that of IE and includes new-age functionality; making this browser appeal to those diverse users of the current day Internet. Unlike that of Internet Explorer, Firefox is tricked out with features that appeal to the user; executing current web standards Firefox includes tabbed browsing, built in spell checking, live bookmarking, instant keyword finding, private and local browsing, integrated searches, and download management.  However, Firefox allows users to customize their browsers through the unique implementation of extensions, which are third party developed, and referred to as add-ons. Currently, 1,620,266,167 add-on downloads are available, from entertainment to the most functional.

Those advanced in the edifice of technology are free to build their own personalized extensions, easily, after approval these can be used and shared by other Firefox consumers. However, for those who are not skilled in building, these extensions are categorized by; alerts & updates, appearance, bookmarking, download management, blogs & feeds, entertainment, music photos, plug-ins, privacy & security, social communications, tabbing, tools & toolbars, web development, videos, and a host of miscellaneous add-ons.  Users can even customize the look of their browser by themes, these are user generated creations that can easily be downloaded; downloading occurs in seconds and restarting will retrieve any prior pages a user was on. This browser also includes dictionaries, language packages, search tools, and collections; these collections are new-age ways to discover more of favorite extensions and can be recommended, shared, and synced with all sources. Per add on extensions a user can simply share comments, give kudos, and/or ask questions; with a simple user account. Personally, I recommend the exploration of all Firefox extensions that best fit ones interest; these virtually take no space and run directly in the browser without slowing down the speed, add-ons can be easily removed and/or disabled through toolbar settings.

Mozilla Firefox operates on practically any existing computer OS system, for all users to take full advantage of; including Windows, Mac, Linux and other open source operating systems. Including application extensions, for the concerned user, Firefox takes far less memory than Internet Explorer, Opera, Safari and Netscape – recent studies show. For a program of this caliber taking less memory, the user has no worries and can install other programs on their custom system; updates are available for this product, instantly, and take less than a minute to download based on connectivity and system standings. With top notch security, this browser has become my favorite technological love affair; one that I highly recommend for anyone stuck on the out-dated sphere of Internet Explorer.

This article marks the first of my browser dedication; dedication that has lead to the boycott of IE use –- as an avid technological savvy geek chic I will be recommending various extensions; my favorite FasterFox/SmarterFox. Until then, enjoy your Internet escapade; remembering this download is free, organic, and can easily be uninstalled in the event you dislike the program.

(Copyright © H0llywoodWh0re 2009)

With personal trials and tribulations, I found my true self expression in the beauty of writing at a young age. At the tender age of 13-years-old, I found my natural gift; writing my soul out word-for-word like a disease in journals of diaries and poetry. More than a decade later, my natural gift of writing has continued to become my explored passion; be it through my journalism, social networking, comments, debates, or personal blogging. In this twenty-first century of social media, the current revolution of networking has allowed each individual user to become his/her own media source; in this globally interconnected society. Ruled by only the Terms of Service for each different social media outlet, the American Freedom of Speech Act is shown true; allowing users to credit, edit, censor, remove, and/or globally share their own self-created media without limitations or censorships. Finding my own personal niche, in this new-age of user generated content and communication, I am thankful for the prospects given forth in a world of social media; my greatest love interest of all. With a remarkable thirst for knowledge, I often scan the Internet at random to find content best suited for my own personal needs; within a single year I have noticed a drastic and positive difference as the Internet becomes more personalized. Statistical findings have exposed over 80% of current Internet users are authors to their own blogging medium; these authors diverse in their ages, races, and cultures from all over the globe.  As an adopter of early technological ideas; I started to blog, long before Blogger and Wordpress became household names. Now opening myself up to critical user analysis on Tumblr, I have noticed many start-up virginal bloggers; in that I would like to take this time to offer tips, as a journalist, to those who have just entered into the new generation of concept.

At the most critical, in blogging, take the time to find your own unique voice; this is essential for any blogger new, novice, or advanced — writing for personal and/or professional means. Taking this time will allow you to explore various interest to discover that single niche that works the best for you; take all the time you need prior to writing your first text-based blog. I personally believe that as diverse humanity, we all possess a distinctive forte; finding this will allow for the stability of blogging consistently and allow for one blog to flow well with the next. I started out blogging, on a site now ancient in this current networking modernization, personal to my private life; a blog I shared with only a selective handful of people. As my interests changed, I wanted to bask in the concept of an established communicative network; yet I didn’t feel comfortable sharing intimate life details with an unlimited number of judgmental users. With self-evaluation I found a dormant interest, my passion for computers and technology; and I started to write loosely on such -– flirting with such, I realized my topic was far too broad and quickly edited myself to the largely popular topic of social networking media. With that of an addictive and essentially obsessive personality I created a solid foundation and without searching my blogs were picked up my local and mainstream mass media publications as a journalist; a name was created for myself as I started out receiving compensation per article. With gratitude and respect for those who found me, I continued to write; my pay per article increased and near doubled as social networking was introduced to mainstream media. My voice, found, allowed for changes I never planned for, however, the name I created within the world of professional journalism didn’t end there… Recently I was given another distinctive opportunity to explore my fervor, with limitless possibilities; leaving journalism behind for field work, more than tripling my pay rate. These opportunities I obtained simply, and quickly, because I took the time to find my characteristic voice –- if it can happen to me it surely can happen to you, with both patience and passion.

Consistency is the second key factor in blogging that occur in two points; however these can only be accomplished after finding your own subjective niche. You should only write on the subject that appeals to you the most; the voice found, in the soul, through self-exploration. Visualize your blog as your dream home; a solid foundation must first be built with consistency, following the poured foundation a structure must be built from quality materials, and lastly your dream home can be decorated at your will. At the virginal beginning the foundation can be manipulated and tweaked solid; it should not be compromised by jumping around to materials that do not fit. Once the structure is erected you should thrive to improve yourself; both in writing quality and usefulness of the output. As a media journalist, I rummage through web content every day; each day I see a dream home built on a cracked foundation; these authors are responsible for their own failures — by topic jumping. As a recent example to both points, I recently came across “the bouncing egotistical blogger”. This blogger produces three blogs per day; the first on the environmental impact of carbons, the second open source technology, and the third writer peer-to-peer etiquette. As you note, none of these topics can be linked together in subjectivity; a solid foundation poured with diluted cement and rotted wood.   Yet this egotistical writer feels she is clever, because she is diverse in her topics; failing herself as her dream home never passes inspection.  However, to this egotistical writer she refuses to accept any positive criticism, from her peers or viewers; not even when she uses the word “there” instead of “their”; by allowing her ego to rule, she fails herself and her falters continue to worsen. This concept is one that includes both consistency and quality of that consistency. As a blogger you want to work to better yourself, each and every single published work; a year or ten years down the road you will never stop learning and improving your work with proper inspiration; inspiration you will find on your life path.

Third, embrace the current generation of social media; by appealing to reader acquisition strategies for blogs in the twenty-first century. After establishing your blog to the point you feel comfortable with it’s growth; there is absolutely no point in continuing without readers/viewers — unless you glorify talking to yourself. While this is a crucial concept for every personal blogger, this concept is one that goes without its tricks and headaches as what works for one may not work for another. There are various web mediums that will help you in your process of self content marketing; the theory of reader acquisition is quite simple meaning you want to get as many people, as possible, with similar interests to your content. As a social media journalist, I am personally still learning how to attract the correct viewers; remember that attracting the proper viewers may lead to employment and/or other structured opportunities. While, I will describe a few of these below I suggest Google for more information on each; remembering Google is there to utilize for anything and everything.

• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) – The process of improving web generated traffic to your site from search engines. After each blog there is an option for “tags”, these tags are self created and should be keywords to what your blog is focused on; tags should be used at all times on all blogs. Again, tricky; you do not want to use too many so that you appear to search engines and mediums as spam –- you do, however, want to use key terms with the most power and several “keyword generating tools” exist on the web to give you the best results per blog. On the idea of SEO, I recommend research and Google.
• Social Platforms – These platforms are popular social media sites; such as Twitter, Friendfeed, Tumblr, and so forth. You may invest the time to make accounts with each so you create a network within the platform and link the platform to your blog – including feeding whenever possible.
• Blog aggregators – Sites exist in this global social media boom that allow you to submit your blog and blog content to a database of such content; that content is retrieved through search and is categorized by subject. As a personal favorite I enjoy Digg and highly recommend this site; other sites such as Delicious, StumbledUpon, Reddit, Mixx, and BuzzYahoo also aggregate your blog. After signing up for an account with each; fill out your profile to reflect your “voice” and interests as I believe profiles are vitally important, and manually submit each blog you wish to draw attention to. I personally suggest adding content to each site mentioned above, with Digg being a primary; Digg allows for the establishment of communication through likeminded interests and to my experience is the most successful due to the network it has established already with millions of users globally.

These are a mere three suggestions, from a single social media journalist; to help create and improve your blogging perspective. The avid blogger will not fail to produce content as frequency is very important; I suggest no less than one blog each day and if a day is skipped making up for that one blog with two more.  Remember your imagination is without limitation, of your voice, come up with new brainstorms each time you come across an idea you believe would be blog worthy; pay close attention to what your friends are saying, news reports, websites, and what is on the “hot list” for current social media such as Twitter’s Trending Topics. Lastly, have fun with everything you write and remember to proof read prior and after each blog posting.

(Copyright © HollyWoodWh0re 2009)

Earlier this week, The Wall Street Journal printed an article that communication is changing; claiming that electronic mail will be outsourced by social media.  This well known publication, claims that the towering reign of electronic mail is already over; replaced by social networking sites like Twitter, FriendFriend, Facebook, and the numerous others in this global technological revolution. According to the Wall Street Journal:

“We all still use email, of course. But email was better suited to the way we used to use the Internet—logging off and on, checking our messages in bursts. Now, we are always connected, whether we are sitting at a desk or on a mobile phone. The always-on connection, in turn, has created a host of new ways to communicate that are much faster than email, and more fun.”

Myself, a social media journalist; this is a concept that has recently came up, and one and I am currently statistically studying in my field work. In my opinion I predict a drastic decrease in electronic mail, with the introduction of social media; however social media will never replace the era of e-mail 100%. The current revolution of social media provides individual users with an almost never ending connection; increasing the need for mobile connect cards, Broadband, Wi-Fi, and cable Internet. This reality has users instantly connected to each other, in a globally interconnected networking society. Each social media network is offering diverity for each unique user; providing them in 2009 with the chance to create, moderate, censor, and edit their own media. Simply, social networking has allowed for more interpersonal communication to be established globally; giving each user their own distinctive opportunity to become his/her own media. Electronic mail has become boring in comparison to this new-age feature; however even as a feature that impacts the life of most this still will not be a replacement for e-mail.

Myself, a member of over 130 uniquely diverse social media networks, the avid Internet user basically can do anything their heart desires on the appropriate network. Advancements and adaptations are currently being made to social media, as the basic idea was never thought of having such a daily life impact. Social media allows for the share of text, audio, video, photography, files, and more; giving to humanity the desires and needs for social interaction. E-mail will still be around to provide private interpersonal interactions even if those interactions can be networked in both a public and private way; between one or twenty-one people. Hard to believe, in the new-age twenty-first century, there are many who still have not jumped on the band wagon of social media; these generations will keep using electronic mail for their interactions. These older generations, not completely tech savvy if at all, are the reason we still see a mail truck six days a week delivering to an outside snail mail box — even if at the beginning and middle of the e-mail era it was said snail mail would be a thing of the past. Just as with snail mail, the same will occur with electronic mailing; decreases instead of extinction. The only extinction thus far seen is that of dial up connections for our Internet; quickly dial up died out not to be missed.

As the Internet changes equally mankind must adapt, yet mankind must never get to far from reality with its predictions; remembering the global community as a whole. While a 26-year-old, technologically friendly user, may completely move for social media communication decreasing his/her e-mail consumption; a 41-year-old may be more prone to open Outlook and converse in that manner, while 70-year-old’s continue to address envelopes for communicative news. It’s not until the multitasking members of today’s informational age and subsequent generations, reign that snail mail or electronic mail will die out.

Poll: What do you think will happen, to e-mail, as social media inpacts day-to-day life?

(Copyright © H0llywoodWh0re 2009)

Following the introduction of Twitter’s micro-blogging concept, in the early part of 2009; the Internet, as we know it, has changed in ways unexpected. Popularized by mainstream media publications, such as Fox News, the social networking favoritism  rapidly bloomed into a interconnected global explosion; perfect for a company operating on limited funding. “What are you doing,” now a household association, branded the Internet with the preconceived notion of 140 characters or less. Rapid growth took control, crashing servers at times, giving each user a place on the Internet to become his or her own media..

While Twitter excels in one sided communicative information, the limitation of 140 characters fails to produce extensive social interactions; giving way to social networking. Mediums such as FriendFriend, Tumblr, Digg, Youtube, Pandora, and hundreds more picked up in the area of communication — the area Twitter left off. These social networks support the human need for social interaction through means of the Internet, connecting a single user to a globally interconnected society. Right before our eyes, the Internet transformations are being discovered as more and more people move to create unique user names and log into a network of interest. Supporting the democratization of knowledge, user-generated content (UGC) have brought together groups of people, each sharing similar interests, and put them into a single medium for established communication.

Not only a social media journalist, I recently received the chance to work in the field of social media; where as before I was writing on the topic. This was the breaking point, turning my thirst for knowledge into a rabid addiction. Working from both a personal and work account, I am kept quite busy when it comes to the Internet; a positive focus from chronic pain and terminal illness. My interests vast; I am primary interested in the establishment of healthy, positive, and mature communication. A current member of over 135 social networks, each unique to itself; on each searching for, finding, maintaining, and building an positive reward system — putting me on the map within a twenty-first social media revolution.

(Copyright © H0llywoodWh0re 2009)

Feel Free To Add A Comment

Each day I search the Internet, getting my daily dose of technological knowledge; today I made an amazing discovery Flash Widgetz. To the right of this text box, you will see this discovery in the shape of Hello Kitty; and if you click her left paw you will hear my favorite songs. As time allows, more songs will be added; as I was testing the widget when I found my discovery.

Myself, a little girl at heart, I love Hello Kitty and have a variety of objects decorating my room — so I thought it was appropriate to add her to my personalized site. Following the link above, you can create your own music player; with a variety of shapes, sizes, and options. Creating your player is easy, as you add your songs via YouTube link. I did run into trouble adding additional songs to the player, a quick refresh did the trick; a problem with my browser I am assuming as I seen no prior comments of this error.

Enjoy and don’t forget to check out my other widgets, today I devoted to fix up my personal sites; I think I have everything perfect but I am not too sure yet on the last page widget and may remove it — replacing it with something else in accordance.

♥XoXo♥

H0llywoodWh0re