Girls In Tech

Are you one of the many out there who has some old electronics lying around? Perhaps an old gaming system you never use, an old flip phone covered in gems, or dare I say it, *gasp* an old beige desktop PC? For many households, these items become “outdated” rather quickly, and often stick around somewhere gathering dust, never to be used again. Today, with the help of many companies, you can recycle and donate your old gadgets. Some of these companies will clean up and resell the items, taking 100% of the profits and putting them into various charities, while others will actually refurbish the devices if possible, putting them in the hands of those in need, such as schools with little-to-no technology programs or budgets, to third world communities who really need the technology but can’t afford it.

So where can you go to donate your used tech toys? There are many resources, such as eBay’s Rethink Initiative / eBay Giving Works, which acts as a directory of resources for you to donate or recycle your gear. Others include Reconnect, a collaboration between Dell and Goodwill, that accepts items in any condition, and is as simple as dropping the items off to a local participating goodwill location. Check out the links at the bottom of this article for even more places to choose from.

Recycling or donating your gadgets is a great way to help others in need, and maybe even help clean up some more space around the house. Of course, for those wondering, there are often tax benefits and write-off’s as well if needed. Don’t forget, if donating pc’s, laptop’s, or cell phones, to be sure to delete and remove all personal or sensitive data from your device’s as well.

The next time you think to toss out that old ipod or personal dvd player, make sure to recycle or donate. You’ll save landfill space, and perhaps help someone less fortunate who could really use it.

Links:
http://www.recyclingforcharities.com/index.php

http://reconnectpartnership.com/whoweare.php

http://www.cristina.org/

http://close-the-gap.org/

http://mashable.com/2010/04/29/donating-electronics/

If you’re a gamer like myself, you’ve probably heard of the electronic entertainment expo, or E3. It’s one of the biggest conventions used to preview up-and-coming and recently released video games, accessories, attire, and much much more. I’ve had the opportunity to check out this convention for the past several years, and would like to share some of my thoughts on the highlights and changes that have occurred during this time.

After walking the halls of the convention for hours and hours, what really stood out is how much the entertainment industry has merged with the video game industry. Just 5-10 years ago Hollywood was on top of the world and gamers were more of an underground or basement crowd existing completely independently of each other. Now with the recessive economy, Hollywood is losing revenue while the gaming industry is maintaining it’s numbers. Once a power house, the movie market has now switched positions with the gaming industry. There’s a boost in game development and its takers, and entertainment is begging for a chance to play a part in anything gaming.

Take for example the highlight of the show: Nintendo’s 3DS. Nintendo truly outdid themselves with this new intriguing handheld console. As the name implies, the new features include two cameras on the back which allow for taking 3D pictures, and the ability to play games in 3D. However after the 30 minute wait to get a hands-on look at this new device, the majority of uses I saw were not gaming related, but entertainment. During the preview it wasn’t so much the games, but the movies that were highly stressed. “You can watch regular movies in 3D on the Nintendo 3DS!”, I was told. Now as amazing as I think it is to be able to watch movies on a game console, I started to wonder how it became as much or more about movies as gaming.

Looking around the halls there is more integration of entertainment and gaming than ever before. Most popular movies today are being turned into video games, as well as the other way around. There have been rumors about the online game World of Warcraft being turned into a movie. A game that is being played by a whopping 12 million people. Such a following would be a sure box office success.

This strange evolution from people watching movies or playing video games independently to a world where a movie or a game enhances the overall experience is amazing. In a short time these two very different industries found a way to combine their strengths and bring two audiences into the same circle. I believe this is a positive turn of events for gamers everywhere and I hope this trend continues, and the these two communities continue to grow in unison.

I have always had a passion for video games. Since I was a child, I played them whether I was with friends or alone. I loved games so much that I started an online social network for female gamers. Yet despite all that, when I’m faced with the question of “what do you do?” I seem to get the same premature response every time: “Really? Girls play video games?!?”

Now I know what you’re thinking: “This isn’t the 18th century anymore, people don’t really still think that, do they?” Well… the good news is… they don’t.

As much as men (and the occasional woman) like to crack jokes about females not being into technology, or gaming, I’m happy to say that these people are now few and far between. This is a time of change, and the ones leading the way are the ones who have familiarized themselves with all things tech around them. Women who could barely enter the menu options on their cell phones just five years ago are now adding friends and family to their Facebook App on their smartphones. Forget sitting at the kitchen table reading the paper in the mornings, moms today use the Kindle to stay in touch with the news before the paper can even reach the doorstep. Young girls are asking for the upcoming iPhone 4G for their birthdays before the boys on their block knew there was a new iphone on the way.

The transition happened so fast one could barely see it coming. And the gaming industry is no different. Today, whether you game, work, or know someone that does, it’s hard to walk through a mall and not be surrounded by people and media of video games. This is especially true for women. More women play video games today than they have ever in the history of the industry. In fact, the numbers are split almost 50/50.  With so many platforms, genre’s and choices available today, it’s no wonder we’re now seeing those kinds of numbers.
Whether you’re a friendly Solitaire player, or a competitive player at parties or with friends, or an avid game developer, women are flooding the halls with gaming influence. And I, for one, am raising my glass to the prospect of this growth continuing.

So, you’re almost 4 months into 2010. Perhaps you’ve switched jobs, started a new business, invested in one, bought a new house, an eco-friendly car, or any number of big life changes. Just when you thought things are starting to settle down, it hits you: Uncle Sam’s big tax payday is right around the corner! So what’s a girl to do? If you’re one of the many who still haven’t done their taxes yet, don’t fret! Here are some awesome tips and resources to help you out.

There’s a few ways to do your taxes, such as using websites online, specialized tax software for your computer, or even just going into a tax consultant or accountant. (There’s also the old fashioned pen and paper and forms method, but if you’re still reading this, then that’s probably not the route for you.)

So which to choose?

If you’ve got a simple tax situation, such as you held the same job all throughout 2010, no major life changes like marriage, new children, new house, car, or anything else similar, then tax websites or software are probably right for you.  They’ll save you the money of a tax consultant or accountant, are easy to use, and a lot of them now have some form of “Audit Protection” as well, should you be one of the random chosen few selected for an audit. Whether by website or software, They’ll ask you to have your W-2 form from the workplace in front of you, ask you for the numbers or amounts in each box on it, then some follow up questions to see if there’s anything you can deduct to give you the maximum possible refund if you’re entitled to one, or if you have to pay, make that amount as small as possible. All in all the process can take anywhere from 15-45 minutes and then you’re all set, in most cases they’ll even e-file for you, then let you setup how you want your refund (check, direct deposit, etc) and you’re all set and don’t have to lift a finger ‘til 2011.

But what if your situation isn’t as simple and you’ve had some major life changes? Maybe you did some consulting and have 1099’s to file as well, or started a new business and have to do taxes for that?

Online tax prep might not be right for you, but Tax Software might be.  Most tax software can even import your information from financial software like quicken, money, QuickBooks, and more, to make the process even easier. They’ll walk you through every step of your situation to make sure you’re crossing all of your T’s and dotting all your I’s.

If all else fails and you’re still a little nervous about handling your taxes, let a tax professional handle them for you. This route will typically be much more expensive, and often more time consuming, but that’s the price tag that comes with getting a professional to make sure it’s done right.

Things to keep in mind this year:

• Home ownership has some great tax perks, especially this year. Due to the Economic stimulus package, if you purchased a home in 2009 or even closed on it before tax time this year, you’re entitled to a huge tax credit. You can also deduct property taxes, mortgage interest, and more.

• Pay tuition for school for yourself or a dependant? Another great deduction.

• Was your Adjusted Gross Income lower than $57,000 last year? You’re eligible for free federal tax prep and filing.

• Didn’t earn enough to pay taxes this year? You might still be in for some cash back due to the Earned Income Tax Credit. More info at http://www.irs.gov/eitc

And don’t forget if worse comes to worse and you know you won’t have your taxes done on time before the April 15th deadline, be sure to file an extension, and then get them done!

Popular Tax Websites & Software:
H&R Block
TaxAct
TurboTax

It’s that time of year again when love is in the air and gift shopping is in full swing. Don’t know what to get your game-loving sweetheart? Well here are some great ideas that are sure to Zap your loved one out of their seat and make you their winner!

Nintendo Wii – Couples who game together stay together! With beloved games that are fun for everyone, why not get your loved one a game console that you both can enjoy.  From the classics you enjoyed as a kid, to games to help get fit and more, it’s an easy way to play your way to your game fanatic’s heart!

Turn heads when you turn on your computer. Laptop skins add a unique touch to who you are, and are an easy way to personalize your sweethearts gaming rig. Available for almost all makes and models, you can even make a custom skin that’ll show them exactly how you feel about them this Valentines Day!

Trying to find that right mix of romance and technology? Then look no further than the infamous iPod Touch. Just preload it with tunes and game apps that you both love and share and you’ll be dancing your way to their heart! Already have an iPod touch or iPhone? Some apps and games even allow you to play against (or with) each other remotely, bringing you closer together on those business trips, daily lunch breaks, and more.

The techie you love will heart (<3) this 4GB USB thumb-drive. It’s the perfect on the go accessory to wear around your neck or use as a keychain. Available in various colors, it’s a great gift you can wear and share! Want to give it even more of a personal touch? Leave a letter, photos, a video greeting, or more for them on it to find and enjoy the first time they use it!

The Canon PowerShot A480 is a great and affordable way to start making new memories with your loved one.  This is both a romantic gift as well as a functional one. It has a 2.5inch LCD screen and 3.3x optical zoom, and comes in stunning silver as well as this gorgeous red.

If you’re looking for something sweet and simple to give this Valentines Day, give the gift of memory with this heart shaped digital photo frame. Just load this 2.4inch frame with pictures of the two of you and you’ve found the perfect way to stay in their thoughts and on their desk this Valentine’s.

No more than 10-15 years ago, playing games (especially by girls) was not only discouraged, but also frowned upon. Normally, this is the type of opposition one receives from their parents growing up, but that wasn’t the case with me. While all my girlfriends wanted to go shopping and put on make-up, I was anxious to hit the arcade and challenge all the boys to some game-play. Needless to say this activity sounded less than appealing to all my girlfriends.
Now as I sit here over 10 years later, it is those very friends that have inspired me to write this piece. The same friends that used to joke and tease me for being the “geeky” girl who likes video games, are the ones who now ask me “which computer should I get”, “what’s new in mobile technology and gaming”, and “what’s the best app out there to play together?”
It is this transformation in such a short span of time that amazes me. We changed from what once used to be a taboo for most people to something that is not only socially and globally accepted, but assumed and almost required. I would think a change that happens this fast would lead to a culture shock. Instead, it spread virally. Nerdy boys gaming in their basements are a thing of the past. “I game, you game, and people game” became the new standard.
Now, gaming is easier than ever. I can play on my own on a hand held or on a phone or I can play with my friends via wi-fi. And getting other people involved just enhances your experience. I can invite friends to play from my phone, they can join me on their mp3 players, or if they don’t have one, they can compete with me on Facebook or a number of other social networking sites. The possibilities are endless.
All I can say is I hope this trend continues. Girls, now more than ever are comfortable playing games, and are encouraged to do so. They diverted their attention from the stereotypical female activities to a new set of interests in tech. Now, with their heads held high, this revolutionary shift brings girls one-step closer to paving the way for future innovations in gaming, technology, and more.

Last month it was that time of year again: Panel Picker Voting for the Annual South by Southwest Interactive (SXSWi) conference in Austin, TX. Sound familiar? Check out fellow GIT blogger Kristine Gloria’s post about it here: http://girlsintech.net/2009/08/31/girls-in-tech-at-sxsw-2010/

Each year the public votes online for which proposed panels should make it through to being accepted for the conference. I submitted a panel proposal, titled “Impact of Women in Technology”. Whether the panel makes it through to the final round and becomes an official SXSWi panel or not, I do want to share some of my thoughts on the subject, as well as hear everyone else’s and get some great discussion going on this.

For all you girls out there, was there a female presence that got you excited about tech? Maybe it was a mother, sister, aunt, or friend. Perhaps someone well respected in technology today, like Social Media Strategist Erica O’Grady, or Ad-Village CEO Marissa Louie for example?

If you do have an example like this, what about them or their journey in the tech world inspired or empowered you to pursue your dreams? How important do you think their roles are as pillars of Women in Technology to the future of Women in Tech? For me, two of those people are Tekzilla Co-Host & Gadget Guru Veronica Belmont, & New media producer and star of “The Guild”, Felicia Day. These two women are strong willed, have shown great initiative in their respective spaces, and have become pioneers and tastemakers in the fields of Journalism & New Media.

How have women influenced and changed the face of technology as we know it? This includes anything even remotely tech related, whether it be Journalism, Gaming, PR, Marketing, Social media, & more. Are there any famous cases of companies or brands that have seen great success due to Women in Technology? What issues as a Girl in Tech have you had to face? What issues have other women who’ve made a major impact in technology had to face on their paths to success? What would you tell younger or newer women entering the tech space to help them overcome these hurdles and encourage growth of the amount of women in the tech field?

Why are women in tech important to you, or the Tech Space in general?
I hope this post serves as some great food for thought, & would love to hear everyone’s thoughts and discussion (preferably in the comments below) about this!

Thanks!

In this day and age, words like ‘geek’ and ‘techie’ are thrown around as part of regular everyday conversation quite often. We’ve come a long way from the days of these terms being attached to images of boys with greased comb-overs, braces, thick rimmed prescription glasses and pocket protectors. Geek is chic, and Tech is sexy. But just what makes you a ‘geek’ or ‘techie’ exactly? I believe to find the answer to that, you need look no further than your own enthusiasm and passion in something technology related.

When someone talks about Twitter or Facebook, or shows off their new install of the latest operating system from Microsoft, do you groan and go back to whatever you were doing? Or, are you someone like myself who gets excited to hear about the latest iPhone apps (Yes, I even stood in line to get the new 3GS on the first day), or that awesome new version of Rock Band to play with your friends on Friday night? Being a “techie” is no longer about writing programs or fixing computers, (though these things still count too), but having a genuine passion and drive for the technology around you every day. Whether it’s what’s powering your mobile device, your car, your laptop, your gaming experiences, or your social life. If you’re curious to have, play with, or learn about the latest toys and technologies, and even if you know you might not ‘get it’ right away and have to spend some time with the instruction manual.

We interact with many forms of technology all around us in our daily lives. Do you ever find yourself captivated by it all sometimes, or does it make you feel like you’re in a foreign country? The next time you think you might not be qualified enough to fit into the role of ‘techie’ or ‘geek’, look at the tech around you and in your life and what it means to you and it’s effect on you. If you find it brings a slight smile to your face….be sure to let your ‘Techie’ flag fly!