SeniorNet Dallas

SeniorNetDallas Blog Changed to Inactive Status

2011-05-08T11:55:00.010-05:00

Hello Dallas SeniorNetters,

As you have probably noticed, there have not been any new posts to this blog since 2009. SeniorNet of Dallas is focusing its online presence on its official website at seniornetdallas.org and on a new SeniorNet Dallas FACEBOOK(!) page which is now in development. Some of the content from this blog has already been moved to the seniornetdallas web site. The blog will remain online for a while but will not contain new posts from now on.

The blog has been fun, but it's time to move on to more current means of online communication. Keep up the good work!

V. Ingram
(out of state now, but still very much in touch with my SeniorNet of Dallas friends)

SeniorNet Mouse Exercises and Games

2009-09-14T14:41:00.041-05:00

Over the years we have accumulated quite a few exercises and games to help you with mouse and keyboard dexterity. Here they all are in one place. Just click on the pictures below to enjoy. Use your browser's Back arrow to get back to our blog.

Strong passwords: How to create and use them

2009-08-06T12:55:00.005-05:00

Your passwords are the keys you use to access personal information that you've stored on your computer and in your online accounts.
If criminals or other malicious users steal this information, they can use your name to open new credit card accounts, apply for a mortgage, or pose as you in online transactions. In many cases you would not notice these attacks until it was too late.

Fortunately, it is not hard to create strong passwords and keep them well protected.

CLICK HERE to read this excellent tutorial on creating strong passwords on Microsoft.com.
Use your browser's Back Arrow to return here.

A Safety Net for You - OnGuardOnline.gov

2009-05-26T18:36:00.011-05:00

We all need up to date information on how to secure our computers, protect against Internet fraud and protect our personal information. The federal government in collaberation with the technology industry has developed a great web site which provides practical tips to help you safeguard your computer and your personal information...... onguardonline.gov.

The site has a number of fun game-like quizes to test your knowledge of safe shopping, ID theft, safe investing, Phishing scams, laptop security and many others. Click on the link below or the games image above to launch the OnGuardOnline page containing the quizes. Enjoy, and we hope you pass with flying colors. If not check out the rest of the site where you'll find the answers to all of your safety questions.

Take a Quiz

SeniorNet Survey

2009-05-04T11:30:00.000-05:00

As volunteer educators we are always interested in how you, as Seniors, view today's world of technology and computers and how you would like to use them. If you are 50 years old or older, we'd like you to give us your input in a short survey (just 8 questions) which is COMPLETELY ANONYMOUS. The results will be used for no other purpose than help us improve our ever-changing curriculum. If you haven't taken this survey before, just click on the "Talk to Us" link below and use your Browser's back arrow to return here when your finished. A BIG THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP!

Talk to Us!

Click here to see survey results to date.

From Our May 2009 Newsletter - TIP!!

2009-05-04T11:16:00.002-05:00

TIP!!

Need to make email easier to read?

If you have a scroll wheel on your mouse (between left and right mouse button), there is a very easy way to increase the text size in your email.

Just hold down the "Ctrl" key on your keyboard while you push the scroll wheel forward on the mouse.

Try it! It works!

Note: This method works only for web-based email. It does not work if you are using Outlook Express for email or other email systems which run from your local computer.

What Is Spyware?

2009-05-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

Spyware is a general term used to describe software that performs certain behaviors such as advertising, collecting personal information, or changing the configuration of your computer, generally without appropriately obtaining your consent first.

Read Microsoft's excellent article which explains Spyware and how to prevent it. Click HERE.

Volunteer Appreciation Coffee - December 2008

2009-01-30T17:04:00.006-06:00

SeniorNet of Dallas volunteer teachers, coaches and office personnel gathered together at the second annual Volunteer Appreciaton Coffee at The Point at C. C. Young on December 5. The turnout was outstanding. Click on the picture above to view a full slide show of the event. Those young faces you see in the pictures belong to our much appreciated volunteers from Brinker International Corporation. How did we ever do without them?

THANK YOU ALL for your help and support this past year.

SeniorNet of Dallas

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure

2008-10-18T17:11:00.007-05:00

Our Dora (Dora Owens, SeniorNet coach and office assistant) has been training all year for this as we know from her Walking Log. CONGRATULATIONS DORA on your active support of this great cause and for being one of the millions of happy survivors!

Dora's Race for the Cure Slide Show

Valle

Dora's Walking Log

2008-09-01T23:35:00.005-05:00

2008's totals are in. Dora logged a total of 584.43 miles for the year!

Some of our volunteers don't let the grass grow under their feet. One such volunteer is Dora Owens who has been active at SeniorNet for 4 years. She maintains her good health with a routine walking program that she really sticks to and logs her progress on a spreadsheet. Of course she learned how to create that spreadsheet in a class at SeniorNet of Dallas. Here's what Dora says:

"I decided to walk on Jan 26, 2004 when I was eighty years old. I do let miscellaneous reasons distract me from my routine. But the days I walk are always BETTER than the days I don't. I recommend this to anyone who can and will find time for walking. It is safe and easy to walk in my neighborhood...and besides JoLene [dog] loves it.

In 2004 and most of 2005 I was using the treadmill at Garland Senior Center. I had to sign up and wait my turn to do that. Then I got a pedometer and started walking in my neighborhood. On my route I put nine neighbors papers by their front door. They complain when I don't deliver!"

Click here to see Dora's Walking Log

Go Dora!

New Mouse Exercise - Apple Picking Fun!

2008-07-24T16:55:00.000-05:00

Alright.... Let's see how many apples you can get in the basket. Good exercise for mouse and hand-eye coordination. Click on the apple picture at left to start.

GOOD LUCK.

Valle

Photo Tip - Create an e-mailable image

2008-05-30T19:19:00.007-05:00

When sending photos to friends and family via e-mail, don't send them the files straight from your digital camera, because they're too big (in terms of file size) for most peoples' inboxes. Each image file produced by a digital camera is usually one megabyte in size or more. While files that big can technically be attached to e-mails, some recipients' e-mail boxes may get overloaded by such files, and others might reject these large attachments outright.

So before e-mailing a photo, it's a good idea to reduce its file size. This is especially true if you are planning to send multiple photos in one e-mail message.

Click Here to learn how to do this easily with Windows Paint

Computer Help Simply Put

2008-04-05T14:47:00.006-05:00

I you are using the Windows XP Operating System and are looking for great online source of help in simple terms, just check out:

The Coolnerds.com PC Survival Camp

Everything is explained with the computer novice in mind. It is free to use and there are no ads of any kind. Here are some of the topics:

"Wrong Button!", "Crash the Internet", "Desktop", "Start Menu", "Task Bar", "Understand Windows Explorer", "What's Download?", "What's a Web Browser?", "Software", "Toobars"........

You get the idea.

The Ageless Internet

2008-03-03T00:41:00.001-06:00

If you think folks over the age of 60 are only represented on the Internet by sites like AARP and SeniorNet, think again. Many seniors have their own web pages or web logs (blogs). Check out "the Ageless Project" to visit countless entertaining and informative sites built by seniors, catagorized by year of birth.

A couple of my favorites are below. Click on them to experience.

Last Quarter Game of Life (age 82)
Don to Earth (age 94)

Also of interest: Where Elders Blog

Valle Ingram

How's Your Reaction Time?

2008-03-01T13:08:00.002-06:00

How quick on the draw are you with the mouse? We're not sure this has anything to do with driving a car but if this game rates you as "Sluggish snail" or "Ambling armadillo", it might be a clue not to drive too fast.

Click here to give it a try!

Air Force Mouse Exercise

2008-02-29T12:54:00.000-06:00

The object of this game is to move the red block around without getting hit by the blue blocks or touching the black walls.
If you can go longer than 18 seconds you are phenomenal. It's been said that the US Air Force uses this for fighter pilots. They are expected to go for at least 2 minutes.

Click once on the square at left to enter the game .......

GOOD LUCK!

Surfers Graduate - Internet and Email

2008-02-21T15:29:00.001-06:00

Click on the picture to view a larger image

Congratulations to all graduates of the SeniorNet winter Internet and Email class. This class was super savvy and even taught the teacher a few things. Good luck with your surfing and keep in touch!

David A., Bill B., Joanne B., Jerry B., Anneliese C., Robert F., Marian I., Jane K. and Susan S.

Click here to view the updated Graduation Video

Thanks and watch this page for our upcoming spring class schedule.

Valle I.

Good Links!

2008-01-15T23:24:00.000-06:00

Are you looking for a good reference web page that gives you all the links to sites you've ever wanted? Well, SeniorNet has made one for you. It has 103 links in 9 categories and has become known as the "SeniorNet of Dallas Yellow Page". This is a good one to make your Home Page or add to your Favorites or Bookmarks. Click on the picture or the link below:

SeniorNet of Dallas Yellow Page

Turkey Shoot Mouse Practice Game!

2008-01-10T17:00:00.000-06:00

Our popular Snowball Fight game is no long available but you were all getting too good at it anyway, so here's a NEW challenge. THE TURKEY SHOOT!. . Have fun and practice your mouse maneuvers at the same time. Click on the link below to play. Get those turkeys!! To return to this page when your done, just click on your browsers BACK arrow.

CLICK HERE TO START THE TURKEY SHOOT!

Enjoy!

Congratulations Grads - Introduction to Computers

2007-12-15T19:47:00.000-06:00

Click on picture for a larger view

Congratulations to Jan A., Ria K., Pat S., Margie T., Caryl V. and Bob V. for completing the Dallas SeniorNet Learning Center's Introduction to Computers Course, December 14, 2007.

This was a terrific class! Hope to see you back next year.

Merry Christmas,

Valle

SeniorNet Volunteer of the Year - 2007

2007-12-13T19:51:00.001-06:00

SeniorNet is happy to name Annie Palacios as Volunteer of the Year for 2007. Thank you Annie for your outstanding service.

(click on the pictures for a larger image).

SeniorNet Volunteer Appreciation Coffee-2007

2007-12-12T16:44:00.001-06:00

A good time was had by all this morning as certificates of appreciation were awarded to SeniorNet of Dallas volunteers at a Volunteer Appreciation Coffee, C. C. Young Retirement Center. About 35 volunteer teachers, coaches and office staff were in attendance.

Click on the picture above to view a slide show of the event.

Merry Christmas and thank you again for volunteering this year!

Welcome To SeniorNet 2008!

2007-12-10T22:59:00.000-06:00

SeniorNet volunteers are looking forward to a great new year. We will be starting 2008 with more class space for students and all new computer hardware. Our classes can now accommodate 9 students!

Classes start next week (January 14) and there are still a few openings. Click HERE to view the schedule. Make a resolution to expand your computer knowledge this year and sign up for classes.

Can't Type? -- Super Typing Lesson

2007-09-24T16:11:00.000-05:00

We ran across this this pretty good web site for practicing your typing on the Internet. Study the finger position chart below and then click on the chart to start the practice session. To see the chart during the practice session just click on Help.

Moving Day At Last!

2007-09-22T13:09:00.000-05:00

A large group of volunteers gathered at C.C. Young on Friday, September 21 to help move the SeniorNet lab to the new facility in the Learning and Cultural Arts Center. The operation went fairly well! We are indebted to C. C. Young for the gift of this wonderful space. We captured the essence of the event in these pictures. Enjoy.

Dallas SeniorNet Graduation Video

2007-08-20T22:23:00.000-05:00

Click on the screen shot above to view the video slideshow of 2006 and 2007 SeniorNet graduations.

Humor in the News

2007-08-17T14:12:00.005-05:00

Click HERE for the latest political cartoons from CAGLE.COM

SeniorNet of Dallas Cited in DMN Article

2007-08-04T11:34:00.000-05:00

Dallas seniors learn to connect with computers

SeniorNet of Dallas makes the Metro section of the Dallas Morning News. Click for article: Dallas Morning News Article

or read it here on our blog:

BRENT WORSHAM/DMN

They're never too old to learn. Harold Rucker (center), board president of SeniorNet Dallas, helps Owen Brogdon (left) and Joe Veneziano complete their word document projects. SeniorNet offers computer classes for adults age 50 and older.

____________________________________________________

12:00 AM CDT on Saturday, August 4, 2007
By JOANNA CATTANACH / The Dallas Morning News jcattanach@dallasnews.com

Maxine Shannon peered through red-framed bifocals with eyes focused on a blue computer screen. Then, she carefully clicked the icon before her.

Limited to little more than an e-mail now and then, Ms. Shannon joked that her computer skills weren't exactly those of a professional.
"I knew just enough to be dangerous," she said.

But on this day, Ms. Shannon joined six other seniors eager to learn more about the contraptions their grandchildren have mastered at a computer course offered by SeniorNet Dallas.

Ms. Shannon, 77, now sports an indigo flash drive attached to a keychain on instruction days. She proudly proclaims she managed to hammer out a letter to the city using skills she learned in class.

And when she couldn't figure out how to print an address onto an envelope, "I got out my trusty typewriter," she said.

The eagerness to communicate to grandchildren and improve word processing skills are what motivates most seniors who sign up for courses, board president Harold Rucker said. He's one of many retirees IBM tapped to help form the local chapter of SeniorNet, a national nonprofit with some 200 locations in 38 states.

SeniorNet Dallas, which began at Southern Methodist University in 1994 as a partnership between IBM and Travelers Insurance, has since moved to its current location at C.C. Young, a senior retirement community at 4847 W. Lawther Drive near White Rock Lake.
The center plans to unveil a new learning and cultural arts center on Sept. 9 that will include more space for the SeniorNet classes.

SeniorNet Dallas has helped educate more than 2,000 seniors in basic computing techniques such as word processing, spreadsheets, Internet and e-mail, as well as more advanced classes such as tax return preparation and digital photo editing.

The classes, geared toward ages 50 and older, are offered at a cost of $40 to $60 and stretch from four to eight weeks. Only 5 percent of participants are residents of C.C. Young, Mr. Rucker said.

The program is senior-run and senior-organized, and is staffed by volunteers such as Ken Patterson, a retired naval officer who honed his word processing skills after 16 years working for Dallas Area Rapid Transit. Mr. Patterson helps lead courses like Ms. Shannon's with the help of course graduates who can provide one-on-one assistance.

The course Ms. Shannon was enrolled in is the second course in the introductory series. The first fundamentals course covers the basics.

"If things go right, they can maybe make the mouse move," Mr. Patterson said.

Executive director Kristin Fabos, who heads SeniorNet's nationwide effort, says the original intent of the program was to enable seniors to communicate using computer technology.
A large number of newly retiring baby boomers have basic computer training from previous careers, but many participants are interested in hobbyist courses such as making greeting cards. Also, many seniors want to continue to be active, Ms. Fabos said.

Retired dentist Charles Cavin attended Tuesday's introductory class with his wife, Linda. He said having a computer in his home but not having the knowledge to use it properly was frustrating.

The course was helpful, he said: "The first time you're lost, but you get through it."

More Seniornet Mouse Exercises

2007-06-08T10:52:00.000-05:00

Now that you have completed the mouse tutorial, you can practice your skills with some advanced mouse exercises. We've created a collection of exercises that will give you lots of practice with the mouse and common Windows tasks. Click once on the button below to begin.

Internet and Email - About Browsers

2007-01-23T10:51:00.000-06:00

Browser toolbars - Most Internet browsers have basically the same functionality but have a different toolbar design. In SeniorNet's Internet and Email course we teach the class using Internet Explorer version 7. Many in our classes are using Internet Explorer version 6 or the ATT Yahoo browser at home. The following link may help you locate important functions on the various browser toolbars.

Browser Help

History of the Internet by Decade

2007-01-15T22:30:00.000-06:00

There are a number of good sites on the Web which describe the history of the development of the Internet and the World Wide Web. One such site begins in the 1960's and chronicles Internet development decade by decade with graphics and pictures of all the major contributers.

Internet and Email students, click HERE to access this informative site.

Internet Connection Speed Comparison

2007-01-15T22:04:00.000-06:00

Compare speeds of the various types of Internet connections available today.

Click Here.

Attention SeniorNet Teachers and Staff ...

2006-12-22T15:26:00.000-06:00

Posting topics to the SeniorNet of Dallas blog is as easy as writing an email. All you need is the username and password which you can get by emailing me at Blog Monitor. If you already know our username and password you can begin posting by clicking on the link below:

Post A Topic!

V. Ingram

More Christmas Games

2006-12-17T18:54:00.000-06:00

The Snowball Fight was such a success we have added more games to improve your mouse dexterity. Click on Santa above for Christmas jigsaw puzzles, memory games and more. When doing the jigzaw puzzles, just drag the pieces around to put them in place.

Enjoy!

Need a Little Practice Typing?

2006-11-21T23:04:00.000-06:00

Most computer beginners have a little or no experience with typing. Needless to say, typing is kind of preliminary to using a computer. Now, one need not be an expert typist but just familiar enough with the keyboard to get around reasonably well. For a simple typing exercise on the Internet, click on the link below. GOOD LUCK!

http://www.typing-lessons.org

Blog Workshop a Success!

2006-11-18T00:04:00.000-06:00

There were just 3 students in the Blog Workshop (Nov. 3 and 10) but that made the class more personal and "hands on". And even though the workshop was only 4 hours long one of our students (Florine Jeffrey) was able to build a real live blog for her Casa View neighborhood crime watch group. It's still a work in progress, of course, but she is well on her way. When she gives me the go ahead, I'll publish the web address.

Blogs are easy to do and lots of fun. I hope we can drum up some interest in another workshop. (If you are interested just leave a comment on this post). Here are some links to a couple of fun blogs created by seniors like us:

http://mymomsblog.blogspot.com

http://agedandgrumpy.blogspot.com

Happy Thanksgiving,
Valle I.

SeniorNet Workshop on Blogging

2006-11-02T20:28:00.000-06:00

On November 3rd (2 hours) and November 10 (2 hours) SeniorNet Dallas is offering a workshop on "How to Build a Blog". The links and descriptions below are examples of some of the many categories of blogs there are today on the Internet. (We will refer to these links in class).

Blog Samples

1. Private Thoughts Blogs - The Last Quarter-Game of Life. This blog was created by an 80+ year-old retired gentleman who resides in Florida. Every day (or almost) he delights us with his memories of his younger days and interesting experiences from his life. He has a wonderful way with words. I make it a point to visit his blog several times a week.

http://agedandgrumpy.blogspot.com/

DontoEarth: "A Nonagenarian (90+) Ponders Life, the Universe, and Aging". Gentleman, 92 years young who started blogging this year has plenty of wisdom to share on an attractive site.

http://dontoearth.blogspot.com

2. A Collaborative Blog - SeniorNet Dallas. This blog was set up as a communications forum for the teachers, students and staff of the SeniorNet of Dallas, Texas Learning Center. (It's the blog you're looking at right now.)

Lenox Crime Watch Blog -

Collaborative blog for a neighborhood crime watch group.

http://lenoxcrimewatch.blogspot.com/

3. Blogs for Help, Advice on a Specific Topic - Silver Surfer. The author's intention in creating this weBLOG is to identify freeware and learning links for the mature surfer. (originates in Wellington. New Zealand).

http://silversurfernz.blogspot.com/

Dummies Guide to Google Blogger -

- Tips for those using the popular BLOGGER blogging service, (blogspot). Many of the tips are also relevant to those using other blogging services.

http://bloggerfordummies.blogspot.com/

4. Personal Diary Blogs - CBreaux Speaks - Just what you would expect to find in a diary - an accounting of daily experiences (with pictures, however).

http://cbreaux.blogspot.com/

My Mom's Blog - This delightful 81-year-old from Massachusetts has a great blog with a lot of readers. It even has video! Millie shares her mother's wonderful recipe for potato pancakes with us.

http://mymomsblog.blogspot.com

5. Political Blogs - Pundit Mom - Professional freelance writer and attorney living in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, D.C. writing frequently for a variety of national and regional publications on the law, adoption, culture & lifestyle, and politics.

http://punditmom1.blogspot.com/
http://www.iowatrueblue.com/

6. Hobby Blogs - The Providential Gardener - Community of gardeners in Providence Rhode Island.

http://www.providentialgardener.typepad.com/

Pottery Blog: Emily Murphy -

http://potteryblog.com/

Followup to Maps Workshop

2006-09-15T14:39:00.002-05:00

Online maps are one of the most useful tools on the Internet today. As competition increases, the Internet's power players (Yahoo, Google, MapQuest, Microsoft) have been steadily upgrading their map sites, hoping to draw more users. These sites now have many more useful features and options. Below is a list of map sites and a link to a short tutorial on using MapQuest.

MapQuest - http://mapquest.com/
Google Maps - http://google.com/maps
Yahoo Maps - http://maps.yahoo.com/
Windows Live Local - http://local.live.com/

Click Here for a quick online MapQuest tutorial.

Valle Ingram

Internet Mapping Sites - The Best Directions

2006-07-31T16:48:00.000-05:00

Click on the picture for a larger view
If you have taken SeniorNet's Internet and Email course you already know a little about using maps on the Internet. Online maps have gotten much better in the past few years. The directions haven't changed much. But boy, the mapping sites sure have. Google Inc.'s maps didn't even exist back then. And no major competitor was offering aerial photos, which are almost standard now. The Internet's power players have been steadily upgrading their map sites, hoping to draw more users. The sites now have more useful features and options, though some have so many choices that they require some practice to learn to use.

This year SeniorNet is offering a new two hour workshop on "How to find and use Online Maps". We will cover maps provided by Google, Yahoo, MapQuest and a new site called Windows Live Local. The workshop will be given on Friday, September 15 from 10 AM until noon. Call 214-841-2818 to sign up.

Note: The maps shown above (regular view and satellite view) are from Google Maps and are the result of entering the address of the SeniorNet Learning Center at the C.C. Young Retirement Center, 4829 West Lawther Drive, Dallas, Texas 75214.

Congratulations Internet Class - July 3 2006

2006-07-06T00:00:00.000-05:00

What a great class! Congratulations to you all for successfully completing the course. We had a few delays (Memorial Day and the blackout on June 19) but we made it. Many thanks to our two great coaches - Gini Lewis and Annie Palacios. I'm Sorry we didn't get a class picture but here are your names graduate surfers:

Sara Allen
Pearl Blair
LaVera Gardner
Cecil Gilliam
Millie Hieb
Mary Lunceford
Terri Teele

Be sure to check this site regularly for class schedules and tips from your teachers on all of our SeniorNet courses.

Enjoy ........
Valle

Free Tutorials from SeniorNet in New Zealand

2006-05-27T20:05:00.000-05:00

Access to the Internet gives us help and information from all around the world. Mr. Alan Royal, a Seniornetter from Wellington, New Zealand happened on our blog and emailed me with a link to a New Zealand blog site that is loaded with free tutorials and software on just about everything (Word, Excel, Internet Explorer, Picassa ..., etc.). I also learned that New Zealand has over 100 SeniorNet Learning Centers! Here is the text of his email and a clickable link to the site:

"Enjoyed your site. You may like to include a link(s) from a NZ
Seniornetter which includes useful freeware, free tutorials, a template
tutorial and a blog tutorial introduction, the latter in the right hand
links. The site is:"

Silver Surfer

Alan Royal
Seniornet
Wellington
New Zealand

Intro to Computers Class of May 24, 2006

2006-05-24T20:12:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to all of you who completed the Introduction to Computers class that ended today. Special thanks to Valle Ingram and Faye Brooks for being great coaches.

Dick Dexheimer

Printing tip from a Blog visitor

2006-05-14T20:10:00.000-05:00

Sometimes visitors make comments to our posts that are worthy of a post of their own. Here's a comment made by an anonymous visiter to our topic on "Printing Email Messages". Thanks Anonymous!

Anonymous Said:

Here's a tip on printing email and saving the color ink. When you do File, Print you will get a PROPERTIES option in the Print dialogue window.

If your printer has multiple ink cartridges, and one of them is black, you can print your email just using the black ink.

1. Click on PROPERTIES
2. Click on the Quality tab and select Everyday
3. Click on the Color tab and select Print in Grayscale and choose Black Print Cartridge only.

You'll save the precious color ink and a bit of the black as well.

I hope you find this handy.

The Many Faces of Google

2006-05-05T17:11:00.000-05:00

The SeniorNet Computer Literacy Center of Ewing, New Jersey has a wonderful web page with a ton of useful information for SeniorNeters. One such resource is good online tutorial on how to best use the Google search engine. It's called "The Many Faces of Google" and here's the link to click on:

Many Faces of Google

Thanks Ewing NJ SeniorNet!
Ewing SeniorNet Home Page

Mouse Tutorial for Beginners

2006-05-04T16:44:00.000-05:00

This tutorial is for you if you are really new to the Personal Computer and the mouse. In it you will learn how to use the mouse to interact with your computer. Read each page and follow the instructions to build your skills. When you finish the tutorial you may want to practice what you've learned by trying the "Mousercise".

Click once with the LEFT mouse button on the colored link below to start the tutorial.

Start the Tutorial!

Printing Email Messages

2006-04-29T16:57:00.000-05:00

One day last week someone asked me about printing email messages. I'm not sure we really covered that adequately in our last class. Many of you have DSL Internet accounts with SBCglobal (now ATT) which uses Yahoo mail and some of you have established free email accounts with Yahoo. Here's how to correctly print an email message In Yahoo mail. (note: you may click on any of the pictures in this post to see a larger view).

1. Open your message by clicking on the message "Subject". See example of an opened message below.

2. If you decide to select "File", "Print" from the browser file menu at this point, you will print a page that looks like the one above including all of the Yahoo advertisements and the email folder panel on the left of the screen. Sometimes printing this way will also truncate part of your message!

3. Instead, select "Printable View" from the top right of your message. (See picture below).

4. Clicking on "Printable View" will result in a layout like the one below which includes only the message address area and the message itself. Of course, we still have to live with the red Yahoo label on the top but this layout is much better.

5. Now just click on "Print-Close Window" on this screen and your message will be printed.

Almost all Webmail providers (ie. Comcast, Juno and others) offer a way to print your email messages this way.

I hope this helps,

Valle

Tutorial on Internet Security

2006-04-25T10:46:00.000-05:00

The SBCGlobal help pages on the Internet have an excellent video called "What Should I Know About Internet Security". This information applies to everyone, not just SBCGlobal clients. It just takes a few minutes to watch and covers these topics:

Viruses, worms and Trojan Horses
Phishing, spoofing and scams
Vulnerable software and spyware
Security resources available

Just click on this link to view the video http://help.sbcglobal.net/viewlets/dsl/security/

Valle Ingram

SeniorNet Article Posted on AARP Web Site

2006-04-21T22:21:00.001-05:00

Yesterday a detailed article on the mission, benefits and work of SeniorNet was posted to the AARP web site! The article explains the goals of SeniorNet and the many activities of the organization both in Learning Centers and online. To view the article please click HERE.

Congratulations Internet & Email Class, March-April 2006

2006-04-20T18:37:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to recent graduates (see below)of the SeniorNet Internet and Email class, April 19, 2006. You were a great group to teach!

Click picture to enlarge image.
(missing from picture - Melinda McInnis and Ouine Price)

And many thanks to Florine, Aldo and Ken for helping as coaches.

I'm looking forward to being your teacher again,

Valle

Internet & Email: Security Tips

2006-04-18T01:18:00.000-05:00

Tips for Avoiding Email Spam:

We all know that the food Spam is a canned meat product made by the Hormel Foods Corporation. But "Spam" in the context of the Internet is any message or posting, regardless of its content, that is sent to multiple recipients who have not specifically requested the message. Web sites that are less reputable or that have privacy policies that are less strict may sell your email address to spammers. Just as some merchants send junk mail to your house, spammers send unsolicited email with the hope that you will buy their products or services. Since it is very inexpensive to send an email message, spammers can afford to send millions of them, even if only a small number of people respond by purchasing their products. They send their messages from numerous different--and often falsified--addresses, which makes them hard to track. Here are some things that you can do to help reduce the amount of spam that comes to your mail account:

Never respond to unsolicited email. One response or "hit" from thousands of emails is enough for spammers to justify the practice. In addition, a response lets the spammer know that your email address is active, which makes it more valuable and opens the door to more spam.

Never send your personal information (credit card numbers, passwords, etc.) in an email. Spammers can fake the format of normally trusted sites.

Never follow a spam email's instructions to reply with the word "remove" or "unsubscribe" in the subject line or body of the message unless you trust the source. This is often a ploy to get you to react to the email, which lets the spammer know that your email address is valid.

Never click on a URL or web address listed within a spam email, even if the message tells you that's how you unsubscribe. This also alerts the sender that your email address is active and can result in more spam.

Never sign up with sites that promise to remove your name from spam lists. Although some of these sites may be legitimate, most are actually address collectors. If a collector records your address, they will value it more highly because it is active.
Never open an unsolicited email unless you have blocked HTML graphics. Blocking graphics prevents spammers from being alerted when you open the message.

Pictures from C. C. Young

2006-04-18T01:06:00.000-05:00

Assorted pictures of SeniorNet students at the C.C. Young Retirement facility taken recently. Click on the picture to see a larger image.

A Special Day, Sunday, May 14.

2006-04-02T17:42:00.000-05:00

Here's wishing all mothers (and grandmothers) a wonderful day on Sunday, May 14.

Memorial Day Remembrance

2006-04-02T13:17:00.000-05:00

The History of Memorial Day

The American Civil War wasn't even over when a group of women took up the mantle of decorating the graves of fallen soldiers from both sides of the conflict. In 1865, a druggist from Waterloo, NY began promoting the idea of institutionalizing the practice of decorating the graves of fallen soldiers. The community stood behind him and on May 5th, 1866 celebrated the memory of fallen soldiers by having a banquet, marching band, and decorating the graves in three cemeteries with crosses, wreaths, and flowers.
Two years later, General John Logan issued General Order 11 that officially created Decoration Day:

'The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.'

In 1971, over 100 years later, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday to be observed on the last Monday in May. It memorialized the memory of all soldiers who have died in our nation's service. We want to take this time to express our thanks to the men and women who gave their lives in the 18th, 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries, at home and abroad, to give us the freedom to pursue our dreams in peace and without fear of oppression.

SeniorNet of Dallas Course Descriptions

2006-03-12T19:13:00.000-06:00

CLASSES FILL FAST - CALL TODAY... 214-841-2818
Office Hours are 10 AM to 1 PM, Monday thru Friday

Click Here to View the Current Schedule

Computer Fundamentals

Students receive a solid foundation of computer skills, gain confidence using a mouse and keyboard and learn some basic word processing. Advanced word processing is also available.

Prerequisite: None.
Class Periods: 4 half days, once a week.

Introduction to Computers

This class introduces you to some of the basic features and the most used functions of Windows, Word and "hands on" exploration of the Internet and email.

Prerequisite: Fundamentals and a computer at home.
Class Periods: 7 half days, once a week.

Word Processing

Class introduces you to someof the basic features and most used functions of Word Processing. At the end of the class you should be able to edit text, change the appearance of words and paragraphs.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computers and a computer at home.
Class Periods: 6 half days, once a week.

Internet and Email

The goals of this course are to introduce you to the popular uses of the Internet (accessing the World Wide Web and email) and to provide you with basic skills so that that you will be able to correspond with friends and family using email, navigate around the Web, search for information of interest to you and become an active “Netizen” (Internet citizen) by sharing your ideas and support with others in discussions, chat or email groups.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computers and a computer at home.
Class Periods: 6 half days, once a week.

To view a slide show of the course topics and a brief overview of the Internet click HERE.

Windows Tips and Tricks

Learn in Microsoft Windows to open and close documents and programs, to maintain files and to work with multiple windows. Other Windows features covered are use of the "Control Panel", "My Computer" and "Accessories".

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computers and a computer at home.
Class Periods: 4 half days, once a week.

Genealogy / Family Tree Maker

Learn how to create a Family File, organize your genealogy research, create an ancestor chart and print a Family Group Sheet. We will back up and restore data and learn to share it with others. We will also learn about searching for genealogy information on the Internet.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computers and a computer at home.
Class Periods: 4 half days, once a week.

Map to SeniorNet Learning Center

2006-03-01T14:43:00.000-06:00

SeniorNet of Dallas Learning Center

at:

The Point, Center for Arts and Education

4847 West Lawther Drive

Dallas, Texas 75214

214-841-2818

(Click on image to enlarge)

Congratulations August Computer Fundamentals Graduates!

2006-01-01T16:22:00.000-06:00

(click on picture to enlarge)

On Monday, August 6 , SeniorNet of Dallas graduated 7 new computer aficionados. You were a pleasure to teach. Congratulations to this great class and thanks to coaches Florine J. and Gini L.! Graduating students:

Jack C., Marie C., Jean H., Ramona J., Joyce L., Minnie M., Judy P.

Have a wonderful summer. See you in the next class..............

V. Ingram

Internet Surfers Graduate!

2006-01-01T04:11:00.000-06:00

Click on picture to enlarge
CONGRATULATIONS to Stasia H., Millie H., Mary L., Kathleen R., Wayne S. and Doris T...... graduates of the October-November, 2006 Internet and Email Class.

And many thanks to Clarke C. and Jack B. for coaching.

Happy Holidays to all,

Valle I.

HAPPY NEW YEAR !!

2006-01-01T01:07:00.000-06:00

Hello fellow Seniornetters,

Hope you enjoy this special New Years message. Click on the link below. Scroll down a little and it will scroll by itself. Make sure your sound is turned on.

http://intouch-2000.net/happynysnet.html

Happy New Year and be sure to tell your friends about our January - March, 2007 class offerings. See the schedule of classes by clicking on "Class Schedule" in the left column on this page.

Valle I.