May 12th, 2010
Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Mozilla FirefoxOf course you’re wondering whether to make the change from regular Internet Explorer Ver. 6.0 to Mozilla Firefox web brower. Don’t be afraid about asking because there are many people just like you who just
aren’t quite sure if they are ready to make the switch. They’re already on edge from their workload, they have nine bosses telling them about the latest memo, or maybe they’re afraid that suggesting change will get them fired. Well, for all of those good folks out there, a local Chicago businessman is ready to show them how to direct their lives. Well, at least in the field of “look-over-your-shoulder-to-see-if-anyone’s-watching” internet exploration. Microsoft’s Internet Explorer has been the standard in the business world for 10 years now, ever since Microsoft included it in their Windows 95 Plus! Kit. Back then, though, it was titled the “Internet Jumpstart Kit.” Now, the jumpstart has kicked into high gear with the Internet Explorer currently enjoying 86.07 percent of the internet market, according to OneStat, a web analytics company.With the introduction of Mozilla Firefox on November 9, 2004 though, a challenger began to arise in the fight to control the average man’s nightly internet prowl for sports scores. Firefox was able to spread rapidly due to passionate marketing campaigns, sometimes aided by the browser’s users, who were given “referrer points” for turning people on to the new software. These campaigns allowed for the browser to reach the 50 million download mark less than 6 months after its release. Both of these internet browsers have their ups and downs. Mozilla Firefox allows tabs to be created within a single “window,” so users are able to look at many websites at once without clouding their Taskbar. It also boasts a more effective pop-up blocker than Internet Explorer 6.0, according to Walter Mossberg of the Wall Street Journal. In fact, one website even listed 101 things that you can do with Firefox that you can’t do with the Explorer. However, many users complain that Firefox takes longer to load than does Internet Explorer. Sometimes, websites don’t load correctly in Firefox because they were made to fit the Internet Explorer mold.The Internet Explorer, by most accounts, is obsolete and susceptible to a variety of viruses, but there are advantages to using it over Mozilla Firefox. Most websites were created to be shown by the Internet Explorer. This means that using Microsoft Internet Explorer, one will be able to see certain web pages the way they were meant to be seen. Another advantage to the Internet Explorer is that you usually don’t have to download it, because it comes with any computer that uses Windows. At the end of the day, most technology experts, internet-surfing geeks, and sports-score checking jocks will agree that Firefox is the better choice. It is easier to use, more effective for searching, and the visual interface more appealing than Bill Gates’ drab backgrounds. If you want to stick to your guns and stay with the Explorer, you may go down fighting. But don’t think Microsoft won’t be fighting back. Mr. Gates has announced that a new, updated version of Microsoft Internet Explorer will be guiding you through cyberspace sometime this summer.
Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Mozilla Firefox
Of course you’re wondering whether to make the change from regular Internet Explorer Ver. 6.0 to Mozilla Firefox web brower. Don’t be afraid about asking because there are many people just like you who just
aren’t quite sure if they are ready to make the switch. They’re already on edge from their workload, they have nine bosses telling them about the latest memo, or maybe they’re afraid that suggesting change will get them fired. Well, for all of those good folks out there, a local Chicago businessman is ready to show them how to direct their lives. Well, at least in the field of “look-over-your-shoulder-to-see-if-anyone’s-watching” internet exploration. Microsoft’s Internet Explorer has been the standard in the business world for 10 years now, ever since Microsoft included it in their Windows 95 Plus! Kit. Back then, though, it was titled the “Internet Jumpstart Kit.” Now, the jumpstart has kicked into high gear with the Internet Explorer currently enjoying 86.07 percent of the internet market, according to OneStat, a web analytics company.With the introduction of Mozilla Firefox on November 9, 2004 though, a challenger began to arise in the fight to control the average man’s nightly internet prowl for sports scores. Firefox was able to spread rapidly due to passionate marketing campaigns, sometimes aided by the browser’s users, who were given “referrer points” for turning people on to the new software. These campaigns allowed for the browser to reach the 50 million download mark less than 6 months after its release. Both of these internet browsers have their ups and downs. Mozilla Firefox allows tabs to be created within a single “window,” so users are able to look at many websites at once without clouding their Taskbar. It also boasts a more effective pop-up blocker than Internet Explorer 6.0, according to Walter Mossberg of the Wall Street Journal. In fact, one website even listed 101 things that you can do with Firefox that you can’t do with the Explorer. However, many users complain that Firefox takes longer to load than does Internet Explorer. Sometimes, websites don’t load correctly in Firefox because they were made to fit the Internet Explorer mold.The Internet Explorer, by most accounts, is obsolete and susceptible to a variety of viruses, but there are advantages to using it over Mozilla Firefox. Most websites were created to be shown by the Internet Explorer. This means that using Microsoft Internet Explorer, one will be able to see certain web pages the way they were meant to be seen. Another advantage to the Internet Explorer is that you usually don’t have to download it, because it comes with any computer that uses Windows. At the end of the day, most technology experts, internet-surfing geeks, and sports-score checking jocks will agree that Firefox is the better choice. It is easier to use, more effective for searching, and the visual interface more appealing than Bill Gates’ drab backgrounds. If you want to stick to your guns and stay with the Explorer, you may go down fighting. But don’t think Microsoft won’t be fighting back. Mr. Gates has announced that a new, updated version of Microsoft Internet Explorer will be guiding you through cyberspace sometime this summer.
May 12th, 2010
Many people use Internet Explorer to surf the Internet. It is easy because it is installed on all Window's computers (which is what the majority of computer users use). They simply click the blue E and many people do not even realize they have another choice. The following is a basic description for both browsers that might help you decide which one you would prefer.
*Internet Explorer: The Pros*
Before Internet Explorer 8 was released, there would not have been much competition. Version 8 has greatly improved Internet Explorer's functionality and security. Internet Explorer is now considered much safer and the features are much more expanded.
Internet Explorer added some unique features to their browser you won't find elsewhere. The accelerators are probably the most popular and beneficial. These provide a one click access to some of the most common searches on the Internet. You can now highlight text on the browser and quick jump to a website preset with search results for the selected text. For example, with two clicks you can look up the definition of a word or the location of an address with multiple search providers and in a new tab. This not only saves time, but opening another tab avoids losing your spot. For usability and ease of use, Internet Explorer is top rate.
*Internet Explorer: The Cons*
The speed is still an issue with Internet Explorer. It's many features and programming have created a long time reputation for Internet Explorer. Both downloading and running this program has been known to be more complicated and take longer. Furthermore, since Internet Explorer is so tightly integrated to the Window's operation system, many complicated problems can occur during an upgrade, even if the upgrade in uninstalled. IE has been known to cause computers to crash after upgrading to version 8.
As far as features are concerned, oddly, Internet Explorer has seemed to build a reputation to lag behind other browsers. Perhaps it is because Microsoft is too consumed with building patches for problems and security threats that come with each new version of Internet Explorer, and the Windows operating systems. Another reason could be that IE is used by the largest group of computer users, especially those who are not familiar with the computers, the Internet, and downloads. These people use Internet Explorer either because it the easiest option (any others would require a download), or they don't know about the others.
For whatever reason, Internet Explorer was the last version to adopt tabbed browsing, and still does not have some very basic features available on most other browsers. For example, Internet Explorer does not allow tabs to be moved into a separate window, and windows to become tabs of other windows. Internet Explorer does not offer to remember passwords on every log in page. IE8 is much better than previous versions, so Microsoft may be breaking their tradition of being behind soon.
Many people use Internet Explorer to surf the Internet. It is easy because it is installed on all Window's computers (which is what the majority of computer users use). They simply click the blue E and many people do not even realize they have another choice. The following is a basic description for both browsers that might help you decide which one you would prefer.
*Internet Explorer: The Pros*
Before Internet Explorer 8 was released, there would not have been much competition. Version 8 has greatly improved Internet Explorer's functionality and security. Internet Explorer is now considered much safer and the features are much more expanded.
Internet Explorer added some unique features to their browser you won't find elsewhere. The accelerators are probably the most popular and beneficial. These provide a one click access to some of the most common searches on the Internet. You can now highlight text on the browser and quick jump to a website preset with search results for the selected text. For example, with two clicks you can look up the definition of a word or the location of an address with multiple search providers and in a new tab. This not only saves time, but opening another tab avoids losing your spot. For usability and ease of use, Internet Explorer is top rate.
*Internet Explorer: The Cons*
The speed is still an issue with Internet Explorer. It's many features and programming have created a long time reputation for Internet Explorer. Both downloading and running this program has been known to be more complicated and take longer. Furthermore, since Internet Explorer is so tightly integrated to the Window's operation system, many complicated problems can occur during an upgrade, even if the upgrade in uninstalled. IE has been known to cause computers to crash after upgrading to version 8.
As far as features are concerned, oddly, Internet Explorer has seemed to build a reputation to lag behind other browsers. Perhaps it is because Microsoft is too consumed with building patches for problems and security threats that come with each new version of Internet Explorer, and the Windows operating systems. Another reason could be that IE is used by the largest group of computer users, especially those who are not familiar with the computers, the Internet, and downloads. These people use Internet Explorer either because it the easiest option (any others would require a download), or they don't know about the others.
For whatever reason, Internet Explorer was the last version to adopt tabbed browsing, and still does not have some very basic features available on most other browsers. For example, Internet Explorer does not allow tabs to be moved into a separate window, and windows to become tabs of other windows. Internet Explorer does not offer to remember passwords on every log in page. IE8 is much better than previous versions, so Microsoft may be breaking their tradition of being behind soon.
- Internet Explorer in Windows Vista and Windows XP: Reinstall and ...
The method is very different if you want to work in version 6 of Internet Explorer. You really do not need to reinstall Internet Explorer 8 if you're already running Windows XP Service Pack 2. However, you can resolve all issues with ... - Which Is More Secure – Internet Explorer Or Firefox? - TechH2o.com
While IE8 is more compliant than any previous version, it still trails behind Firefox, Chrome, and Safari. Internet Explorer 8 makes large improvements toward secure design and awareness of interoperability. ... - Bing's answer to the political dilemma | Internet Explorer 8 - The ...
Political abbreviations and terms are confusing enough and Bing provides simplifies these issues and unlike many politicians it makes finding what you want a lot easier. - Download Internet Explorer 8 Final | an'SBook
Internet Explorer 8 is an improved version of Internet Explorer 7. After going through the beta phase, Microsoft finally released the final version of. - How do I stop Internet Explorer 8 shows my history in the browser ...
Simply download Internet Explorer 8 and I hope that my record shows the window, but I do not want to delete my history after each session is. - Keygen for Internet Explorer 8 8.0.6001.18702 working key crack ...
Internet Explorer 8 8.0.6001.18702 description Making your web even better...Faster, Easier, Safer Don't forget to check out the new Internet Explorer 8. - Download Bing Optimized Internet Explorer 8
Microsoft is offering a customized version of IE8, tweaked for Microsoft's Bing services. - Reset All Internet Explorer 8 Settings to Fix Stability Problems ...
With the new enhancements and features available in Internet Explorer 8, sometimes too much tweaking can cause it to stop working. One area you could start with is troubleshooting IE 8 Add-ons. However, if you don't want to waste time ...
August 27th, 2010
Having trouble installing software on your system is frustrating. Want to know how to install IIS on Windows XP SP2 CD without SP2?
The problem I experienced when you install IIS:
I tried to install Internet Information Server (IIS) on my Windows XP Service Pack 2. The installation program failed and asked for Windows XP SP2 CD. I only had Windows XP Service Pack 1 CD and Service Pack 2 Service Pack 2 installation package.com/windows/xpsp2. You do not need to spend time in the fusion of Windows XP SP2 CD. I mounted the CD image on a virtual CD. This is what I did: I had removed the SP2 installation file using WinRAR a while ago and compiled a CD image file from it. Begin to install IIS using the standard procedure (Control Panel> Add and Remove Programs> Windows Components)
4. You need not dangerously affect the safety of the Windows folder.html) if you do not.
I tried to find an existing solution on the Internet using Google.
com) or similar compression software;
3. When prompted for the source folder, locate the I386 folder that you extracted earlier
5.
The solution was easier than it looks. Extract the contents of the file in a folder using WinRAR (win-rar.
2. I have read and tried many complex solutions including
Microsoft Support and some simple solutions "Installing IIS after Service Pack 2". Download the installation file in Windows XP SP2 (softwarepatch. How do we install and uses the Virtual CD to supply the missing files that are somewhere inside the I386 folder. When applying for missing files, browse I386 and its sub-folders for them. None of the solutions I found actually worked, or the instruction was too complicated to follow
I finally had to settle for myself. All you need do is use what was already there.
Here are the steps you can follow to install IIS without having a CD of Windows XP SP2:1.
Having trouble installing software on your system is frustrating. Want to know how to install IIS on Windows XP SP2 CD without SP2?
The problem I experienced when you install IIS:
I tried to install Internet Information Server (IIS) on my Windows XP Service Pack 2. The installation program failed and asked for Windows XP SP2 CD. I only had Windows XP Service Pack 1 CD and Service Pack 2 Service Pack 2 installation package.
I tried to find an existing solution on the Internet using Google. I have read and tried many complex solutions including Microsoft Support and some simple solutions "Installing IIS after Service Pack 2". None of the solutions I found actually worked, or the instruction was too complicated to follow
I finally had to settle for myself. This is what I did: I had removed the SP2 installation file using WinRAR a while ago and compiled a CD image file from it. I mounted the CD image on a virtual CD. How do we install and uses the Virtual CD to supply the missing files that are somewhere inside the I386 folder.
Here are the steps you can follow to install IIS without having a CD of Windows XP SP2:
1. Download the installation file in Windows XP SP2 (softwarepatch.com/windows/xpsp2.html) if you do not.
2. Extract the contents of the file in a folder using WinRAR (win-rar.com) or similar compression software;
3. Begin to install IIS using the standard procedure (Control Panel> Add and Remove Programs> Windows Components)
4. When prompted for the source folder, locate the I386 folder that you extracted earlier
5. When applying for missing files, browse I386 and its sub-folders for them.
The solution was easier than it looks. You need not dangerously affect the safety of the Windows folder. You do not need to spend time in the fusion of Windows XP SP2 CD. All you need do is use what was already there.
August 12th, 2010
Gina Marie Incandela, the petite 7-year-old sensation who blessed the spectators at the Orlando Magic playoff games, is poised to move forward with her musical aspirations.
She is not a typical young girl. Gina has autism, but that is not stopping her from following her dreams. "I want to be a rock star," Gina said while she was waiting to perform at the Back-2-School, Back-2-Health event in Orlando July 25 with her mother, Michelle, father Dwayne, sister Alexis (Lexi), grandfather Mort Mescall and other family members.
That day will always be special to Gina. Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty and 3rd District Commissioner Mildred Fernandez proclaimed July 25 "Gina Marie Incandela Day" stating that "despite an early diagnosis of an autistic spectrum disorder, [Gina] exceeded all expectations and defied odds." The proclamation continued to acknowledge that Gina and her parents "worked very hard over the past few years to reach all the social and developmental goals set out for her, and after numerous occupational, speech, language and behavioral therapies, and with the loving support of her family, she has established herself as a vocal star."
Gina is best known for her National Anthem performances at the Orlando Magic games. She gained international recognition with her penetrating rendition at the recent NBA playoff games in the Amway Arena. "Gina Marie captured our collective hearts," Magic Vice-President of Communications and team spokesperson Joel Glass said. "She is absolutely remarkable and truly inspirational to everyone in the Magic family. While serving as the Magic good luck charm, she brought attention to autism and it is our hope that in ways big and small she provided her contagious inspiration to others."
Gina said that performing in front of 30,000 people is exciting for her. "When I sing the National Anthem, I feel like everyone is with me on the stage," she said. Mescall added that Gina will not even perform in small crowds. "If there is a group of eight people, Gina won't sing. But give her a packed stadium and she will sing her heart out."
Following her dreams, Gina is working on a collaboration album that will help benefit The Miracle Project and "is less about research and the cure and more about working to improve the quality of life for children and families with autism living today and applying the transformational techniques inherent in theater to bring out the ability within the disability," Diane Isaacs, executive producer of the project said.
The album, "Fly: Into the World of Autism," features the voices of children with autism. Several well-known artists will be contributing to the effort including Chaka Khan, Stephen Stills and Drew Seeley. Gina will also contribute to the song "Make Some Music" which features Seeley on lead vocals. Isaac's own autistic son, Wyatt, will sing a song with Jack Black featuring Stills on guitar.
Gina's part of the duet with Khan, "Butterfly," was recorded in her sister's room. It's a song about a young child who will emerge as a butterfly in her own time. Jason Lucas, wrote and produced the song and traveled from Los Angeles to Orlando, bringing with him the full, mobile recording equipment. "We were surrounded by stuffed animals and walls painted with cartoon characters, like a little wonderland," Lucas said. "I set up the studio on a children's tea party table and sat on a tiny plastic chair
"Gina would come in and record fifteen minute sessions with me for 2 days. She would step in like a professional, put on her headphones and just do it. Gina did not need two bars of introduction, just a few words. She was very well -rehearsed, thanks to her Mom and family, who provide a very supportive, progressive, yet normal environment."
Lucas described Gina as "a very happy, warm and loving youngster, who is a joy to hang out with." He recalled that Gina "memorized the string names on my guitar having heard them named one time. Two hours later, Michelle, her mother, asked her to name the strings and with very little hesitation and no flaws, she did." "When I first heard about Gina, I knew she had to sing on "Fly: Into the World of Autism" because she flies and redefines the common perception about what a child with autism can do," Isaacs said. "She is a shooting star, as are many of our other child singers. It is a celebration of the many voices of autism to open eyes, ears and hearts to this diagnosis."
The album is scheduled to be released this fall. Updates will be available at ginachildperformer.com/ and at www.themiracleproject.org/. Other celebrity contributors to the project include Rev. Run (from MTV's Runs House and Run DMC) , Ben Vereen, Babyface, Gary Cole and several others.
Gina was first diagnosed with autism when she was two years-old; however, her parents were not sure this diagnosis was correct because they were not familiar with the symptoms. Gina was unable to speak and did not associate with other children well. She would become frustrated and angry because she could not communicate the way she wanted to. Things seemed to be getting worse and not better. The Incandela's soon realized that what they had dismissed as "behavioral quirks" were actually symptoms of autism.
Gina received treatment at UCP of Central Florida from age two through five. She now attends a private school in Kissimmee. "We believe that the early diagnosis and early intervention along with the family support were crucial to her success," Michelle added.
Now, at age seven, Gina "works hard every day to function in a world which she perceives much differently than most," Michelle said. She explained that "through music therapy, Gina's speech improved and through speech therapy, her singing improved and it has brought her full circle."
"Gina does not really know that she has autism," Michelle said. "We have tried to explain it to her, but I don't think she is yet able to see those differences between herself and the other kids. If you ask her whether or not she is different from the other kids she will say 'Yes, I sing really good.' She sees her musical ability as the trait which makes her unique and not her autism."
Autism is a neurological disorder that typically appears during the first three years of life. The illness impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction and verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Those with autism may exhibit repeated body movements, unusual responses to other people, attachments to certain objects and have an aversion to any changes in routine activities. There is currently no cure for autism, but the illness is treatable. Donna Lorman, president of the Autism Society of Greater Orlando (http://www.asgo.org/), said that "Gina always amazes me and reminds me of the possibilities."
Donna Helsel, board member of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Greater Orlando (http://www.namigo.org/), heard Gina perform at the opening of the Central Florida Behavioral Hospital. "She is fantastic," Helsel said. "She is a wonderful example that early intervention and treatment works."
Gina has performed the National Anthem more than fifty times locally and across the country. In addition to opening for the Orlando Magic, she has appeared at Shea Stadium in New York, Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas and was also a guest on the Today Show. Recently, Gina was asked to return to New York for the US Open Tennis Championship on Labor Day weekend. Topping off her busy schedule, Gina is also working on new recordings of her own that will be available in various formats.
It's difficult to know what the future holds for Gina and her family, but Michelle explained that our plans are to support Gina and her dreams. We want both our girls to ultimately do what takes them happy in life and will do whatever we can to support them in their endeavors. Gina's career choice might change but, hopefully whatever she does it will be something that she loves."
Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs is hosting the 5th annual Orlando Walk Now for Autism fund raising event on November 14. For further information, visit www.walknowforautism.org/orlando.
Additional photos of Gina can be viewed at www.bvphoto.net/musicians
Gina Marie Incandela, the petite 7-year-old sensation who blessed the spectators at the Orlando Magic playoff games, is poised to move forward with her musical aspirations.
She is not a typical young girl. Gina has autism, but that is not stopping her from following her dreams. "I want to be a rock star," Gina said while she was waiting to perform at the Back-2-School, Back-2-Health event in Orlando July 25 with her mother, Michelle, father Dwayne, sister Alexis (Lexi), grandfather Mort Mescall and other family members.
That day will always be special to Gina. Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty and 3rd District Commissioner Mildred Fernandez proclaimed July 25 "Gina Marie Incandela Day" stating that "despite an early diagnosis of an autistic spectrum disorder, [Gina] exceeded all expectations and defied odds." The proclamation continued to acknowledge that Gina and her parents "worked very hard over the past few years to reach all the social and developmental goals set out for her, and after numerous occupational, speech, language and behavioral therapies, and with the loving support of her family, she has established herself as a vocal star."
Gina is best known for her National Anthem performances at the Orlando Magic games. She gained international recognition with her penetrating rendition at the recent NBA playoff games in the Amway Arena. "Gina Marie captured our collective hearts," Magic Vice-President of Communications and team spokesperson Joel Glass said. "She is absolutely remarkable and truly inspirational to everyone in the Magic family. While serving as the Magic good luck charm, she brought attention to autism and it is our hope that in ways big and small she provided her contagious inspiration to others."
Gina said that performing in front of 30,000 people is exciting for her. "When I sing the National Anthem, I feel like everyone is with me on the stage," she said. Mescall added that Gina will not even perform in small crowds. "If there is a group of eight people, Gina won't sing. But give her a packed stadium and she will sing her heart out."
Following her dreams, Gina is working on a collaboration album that will help benefit The Miracle Project and "is less about research and the cure and more about working to improve the quality of life for children and families with autism living today and applying the transformational techniques inherent in theater to bring out the ability within the disability," Diane Isaacs, executive producer of the project said.
The album, "Fly: Into the World of Autism," features the voices of children with autism. Several well-known artists will be contributing to the effort including Chaka Khan, Stephen Stills and Drew Seeley. Gina will also contribute to the song "Make Some Music" which features Seeley on lead vocals. Isaac's own autistic son, Wyatt, will sing a song with Jack Black featuring Stills on guitar.
Gina's part of the duet with Khan, "Butterfly," was recorded in her sister's room. It's a song about a young child who will emerge as a butterfly in her own time. Jason Lucas, wrote and produced the song and traveled from Los Angeles to Orlando, bringing with him the full, mobile recording equipment. "We were surrounded by stuffed animals and walls painted with cartoon characters, like a little wonderland," Lucas said. "I set up the studio on a children's tea party table and sat on a tiny plastic chair
"Gina would come in and record fifteen minute sessions with me for 2 days. She would step in like a professional, put on her headphones and just do it. Gina did not need two bars of introduction, just a few words. She was very well -rehearsed, thanks to her Mom and family, who provide a very supportive, progressive, yet normal environment."
Lucas described Gina as "a very happy, warm and loving youngster, who is a joy to hang out with." He recalled that Gina "memorized the string names on my guitar having heard them named one time. Two hours later, Michelle, her mother, asked her to name the strings and with very little hesitation and no flaws, she did." "When I first heard about Gina, I knew she had to sing on "Fly: Into the World of Autism" because she flies and redefines the common perception about what a child with autism can do," Isaacs said. "She is a shooting star, as are many of our other child singers. It is a celebration of the many voices of autism to open eyes, ears and hearts to this diagnosis."
The album is scheduled to be released this fall. Updates will be available at ginachildperformer.com/ and at www.themiracleproject.org/. Other celebrity contributors to the project include Rev. Run (from MTV's Runs House and Run DMC) , Ben Vereen, Babyface, Gary Cole and several others.
Gina was first diagnosed with autism when she was two years-old; however, her parents were not sure this diagnosis was correct because they were not familiar with the symptoms. Gina was unable to speak and did not associate with other children well. She would become frustrated and angry because she could not communicate the way she wanted to. Things seemed to be getting worse and not better. The Incandela's soon realized that what they had dismissed as "behavioral quirks" were actually symptoms of autism.
Gina received treatment at UCP of Central Florida from age two through five. She now attends a private school in Kissimmee. "We believe that the early diagnosis and early intervention along with the family support were crucial to her success," Michelle added.
Now, at age seven, Gina "works hard every day to function in a world which she perceives much differently than most," Michelle said. She explained that "through music therapy, Gina's speech improved and through speech therapy, her singing improved and it has brought her full circle."
"Gina does not really know that she has autism," Michelle said. "We have tried to explain it to her, but I don't think she is yet able to see those differences between herself and the other kids. If you ask her whether or not she is different from the other kids she will say 'Yes, I sing really good.' She sees her musical ability as the trait which makes her unique and not her autism."
Autism is a neurological disorder that typically appears during the first three years of life. The illness impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction and verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Those with autism may exhibit repeated body movements, unusual responses to other people, attachments to certain objects and have an aversion to any changes in routine activities. There is currently no cure for autism, but the illness is treatable. Donna Lorman, president of the Autism Society of Greater Orlando (http://www.asgo.org/), said that "Gina always amazes me and reminds me of the possibilities."
Donna Helsel, board member of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Greater Orlando (http://www.namigo.org/), heard Gina perform at the opening of the Central Florida Behavioral Hospital. "She is fantastic," Helsel said. "She is a wonderful example that early intervention and treatment works."
Gina has performed the National Anthem more than fifty times locally and across the country. In addition to opening for the Orlando Magic, she has appeared at Shea Stadium in New York, Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas and was also a guest on the Today Show. Recently, Gina was asked to return to New York for the US Open Tennis Championship on Labor Day weekend. Topping off her busy schedule, Gina is also working on new recordings of her own that will be available in various formats.
It's difficult to know what the future holds for Gina and her family, but Michelle explained that our plans are to support Gina and her dreams. We want both our girls to ultimately do what takes them happy in life and will do whatever we can to support them in their endeavors. Gina's career choice might change but, hopefully whatever she does it will be something that she loves."
Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs is hosting the 5th annual Orlando Walk Now for Autism fund raising event on November 14. For further information, visit www.walknowforautism.org/orlando.
Additional photos of Gina can be viewed at www.bvphoto.net/musicians
August 12th, 2010
Plum Island Director's StatementThe Director of the Plum Island Animal Disease Center today uttered an unequivocal denial that the Monster of Montauk came from the facility.
With the Monster of Montauk the hottest topic on Google Trends for the second day running, Associated Content called the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) which jointly operate the facility, for a response to persistent speculation that the Montauk Monster is USDA property. As reported yesterday on Associated Content, the USDA's Plum Island Animal Disease Center is located not far from where the Montauk Monster washed ashore.
The close proximity of the Plum Island facility and the site of the Montauk Monster's discovery had fueled speculation that the Monster of Montauk is property of the USDA and may have been an experiment gone wrong or a byproduct of improper disposal.
Dr. Larry Barrett, Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC) Director, responded to a flood of media inquiries on the Montauk Monster by issuing the following statement:
"It is impossible to accurately identify the species of animal from the photo. There is no scale from which to judge its size. Additionally, when a body has had prolonged exposure to water and predators, it can be altered or appear different from its normal form. If we had the actual body, we could tell you what it is; however, from viewing a canine tooth in the picture, we could guess it may be a cat or raccoon. I can state categorically that it is not associated with the work performed at Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC). PIADC serves as the nation's first line of defense against foreign animal diseases of livestock by identifying such diseases through diagnostic testing and by developing vaccines to protect livestock from those diseases."
Sandy Miller-Hays, of USDA, also said that there is no way the creature known as the Monster of Montauk came from Plum Island. She said that the research there involves barnyard animals, cows, pigs and sometimes sheep, used for research into foot and mouth disease. The Plum Island work is critical, Hays-Miller said, because export rules would prevent the United States from exporting any animal products for a full year if an outbreak of foot and mouth disease were to occur here. Emphasizing the impossibility of the Monster of Montauk being USDA property derived from Plum Island, Hays-Miller noted that all Plum Island research subject animals are euthanized and incinerated once research is complete.
Security at the facitlity is so tight that researchers entering and exiting the building must strip naked and enter a one way turnstile, then dress in facility provided clothes on the other side. Even jewelry and contact lenses must be removed during this process.
Yesterday's Associated Content article erred in stating that Plum Island is a level 4 faciltiy; it is actually level 3-ag and is not responsible for studying zoonotic diseases as stated in yesterday's article. The facility has done limited West Nile virus work but only to address its possible transmission among farm animals.
With the issuance of Dr. Barrett's statement, and the information provided by Miller-Hays, the mystery surrounding the Monster of Montauk seems to have dissipated. No aliens, no sinister government experiments and no devious publicity stunts. Just an unfortunate animal that met its demise.
Sources: interviews and emails with USDA and DHS officials
Plum Island Director's Statement
The Director of the Plum Island Animal Disease Center today uttered an unequivocal denial that the Monster of Montauk came from the facility.
With the Monster of Montauk the hottest topic on Google Trends for the second day running, Associated Content called the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) which jointly operate the facility, for a response to persistent speculation that the Montauk Monster is USDA property. As reported yesterday on Associated Content, the USDA's Plum Island Animal Disease Center is located not far from where the Montauk Monster washed ashore.
The close proximity of the Plum Island facility and the site of the Montauk Monster's discovery had fueled speculation that the Monster of Montauk is property of the USDA and may have been an experiment gone wrong or a byproduct of improper disposal.
Dr. Larry Barrett, Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC) Director, responded to a flood of media inquiries on the Montauk Monster by issuing the following statement:
"It is impossible to accurately identify the species of animal from the photo. There is no scale from which to judge its size. Additionally, when a body has had prolonged exposure to water and predators, it can be altered or appear different from its normal form. If we had the actual body, we could tell you what it is; however, from viewing a canine tooth in the picture, we could guess it may be a cat or raccoon. I can state categorically that it is not associated with the work performed at Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC). PIADC serves as the nation's first line of defense against foreign animal diseases of livestock by identifying such diseases through diagnostic testing and by developing vaccines to protect livestock from those diseases."
Sandy Miller-Hays, of USDA, also said that there is no way the creature known as the Monster of Montauk came from Plum Island. She said that the research there involves barnyard animals, cows, pigs and sometimes sheep, used for research into foot and mouth disease. The Plum Island work is critical, Hays-Miller said, because export rules would prevent the United States from exporting any animal products for a full year if an outbreak of foot and mouth disease were to occur here. Emphasizing the impossibility of the Monster of Montauk being USDA property derived from Plum Island, Hays-Miller noted that all Plum Island research subject animals are euthanized and incinerated once research is complete.
Security at the facitlity is so tight that researchers entering and exiting the building must strip naked and enter a one way turnstile, then dress in facility provided clothes on the other side. Even jewelry and contact lenses must be removed during this process.
Yesterday's Associated Content article erred in stating that Plum Island is a level 4 faciltiy; it is actually level 3-ag and is not responsible for studying zoonotic diseases as stated in yesterday's article. The facility has done limited West Nile virus work but only to address its possible transmission among farm animals.
With the issuance of Dr. Barrett's statement, and the information provided by Miller-Hays, the mystery surrounding the Monster of Montauk seems to have dissipated. No aliens, no sinister government experiments and no devious publicity stunts. Just an unfortunate animal that met its demise.
Sources: interviews and emails with USDA and DHS officials
August 11th, 2010
Blocking Internet sites is usually one of many characteristics located in "parental controls".
The facility to block and unblock internet sites is a means used to: limit access to Internet content, founded on an personal database of the result, or limiting entry to Internet content by way of a database looked after external to the product itself. Some programs limit access to Internet content to particular ratings allocated to those web pages by a third party by examining content, located on a keyword, phrase or text sequence.
The majority of filtering software at present is intended for the home market. It has been declared many times that, this type of software is over-inclusive and restricts access to or censors unsuitable websites and conversely filters potentially academic works regarding some sensitive topics. The companies creating this type of software package also supply no appeal method to content suppliers who are prohibited, thereby undermining the self-activating conversion of knowledge that has been a trademark of the Internet population.
There are two main web browsers in the market place today which provide users the ability to block and unblock internet sites. These are of course Microsoft's Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox.
Mozilla Firebox browser is relatively easy to set up to block or unblock Internet sites through its plug in facility. BlockSite is an supplemental add on, which automatically blocks internet sites of your selection. In addition, this extension will deactivate all hyperlinks to these web sites, by just presenting the link text deprived of the clicking action. This extension should not be used for parental control or access control intentions, really considering that it is not secure and can readily be incapacitated or even taken off.
Microsofts Internet explorer is equally as straight forward to set up using the "Content Advisor" facility which allows you to add sites to allow or block list established through ratings which you can set up yourself. This can be located within the 'tools' and then 'internet options' and then 'Parental Controls'. Setup is very straight forward and the best way to learn how to accomplish this is to go into the settings and see for yourself.
Blocking Internet sites is usually one of many characteristics located in "parental controls".
The facility to block and unblock internet sites is a means used to: limit access to Internet content, founded on an personal database of the result, or limiting entry to Internet content by way of a database looked after external to the product itself. Some programs limit access to Internet content to particular ratings allocated to those web pages by a third party by examining content, located on a keyword, phrase or text sequence.
The majority of filtering software at present is intended for the home market. It has been declared many times that, this type of software is over-inclusive and restricts access to or censors unsuitable websites and conversely filters potentially academic works regarding some sensitive topics. The companies creating this type of software package also supply no appeal method to content suppliers who are prohibited, thereby undermining the self-activating conversion of knowledge that has been a trademark of the Internet population.
There are two main web browsers in the market place today which provide users the ability to block and unblock internet sites. These are of course Microsoft's Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox.
Mozilla Firebox browser is relatively easy to set up to block or unblock Internet sites through its plug in facility. BlockSite is an supplemental add on, which automatically blocks internet sites of your selection. In addition, this extension will deactivate all hyperlinks to these web sites, by just presenting the link text deprived of the clicking action. This extension should not be used for parental control or access control intentions, really considering that it is not secure and can readily be incapacitated or even taken off.
Microsofts Internet explorer is equally as straight forward to set up using the "Content Advisor" facility which allows you to add sites to allow or block list established through ratings which you can set up yourself. This can be located within the 'tools' and then 'internet options' and then 'Parental Controls'. Setup is very straight forward and the best way to learn how to accomplish this is to go into the settings and see for yourself.
