Just before we sat down this morning to discuss daily assignments, it was discovered that one of our newsroom computers was infected with a virus and had to be taken offline. That, plus the countless e-mails we’ve received over the last few days, seemed reason enough to explore the information behind the April Fools’ super virus.

Called the Conficker worm, it has already inspired reaction from major retailers like Staple’s and even the FBI. While not new, rumors have been circulating about a re-launch to happen tomorrow. If infected, it will turn your computer into a spam machine and and steal all of your information. The virus exploits a security gap in Microsoft Windows. And Microsoft is offering a $250,000 reward to the person who catches the Conficker creator.

Experts say to keep your anti-virus protection up to date, and have your computer checked out if you notice any odd behavior. Apparently one of the signs of the virus: if you try to search for information about it or about virus protection, your computer won’t load the page.

While there are disadvantages to being a Mac user, it’s times like this that I’m glad I am.

Click here to see reporter John Wilmer’s full report on the Conficker worm.

-jj

Posted under Web/Tech

On the surface it’s simply a new feature for iPhone users – Skype on your cell phone. And why not. Apple promised you all the perks of computer-based Web browsing on a handheld device. But, heavy data consumers are hoping it will be the spark that ignites change in how we are billed by the wireless companies.

Skype announced today that it’s iPhone app will be a free download. But, Apple and AT&T are limiting when the app can be used. While the companies want to meet user demand, it seems they also want to protect their paid calling service. According to PC World, the app will only work when connected to a Wi-Fi network and not with the AT&T data networks.

So how can this little app inspire change? By changing how the phone companies look at the different information sent on a cell phone. Right now, most companies separate phone calls, texts and data when in reality all three are simply data sent from one device to another.

To me it’s similar to the evolution of landlines, or even in the beginning when most cell companies charged for roaming.

On one hand, the current system is likely to my advantage because I make very few phone calls but I’m a heavy data user. The iPhone plan comes with unlimited data, so while I’m making losing some money on the call side, I think I’m saving more on the data side.

Last year there were reports circulating that iPhone owners had up to 30 times more data usage than other smartphone owners. I just checked my bill history and I’m averaging about 100 MB per month.

It’s hard to believe, but data usage and pricing is still new. I think wireless companies are doing what many industries do – clinging to the familiar (voice usage) and trying to maintain strict control of the unknown (data usage). Maybe AT&T wants to keep Skype from cutting into it’s call volume, but if customers used the app on the data network instead of Wi-Fi, it would still count as data usage, right?

Maybe there’s some big piece I’m missing.

While I highly doubt the Skype app will be remembered as the catalyst that brought the wireless companies and their pricing plans to their knees, I do think it’s one of many future developments that signal a coming change.

As a heavy data consumer, I think I’m getting the better end of the deal, so I’m not in a big hurry to be charged for my data usage. I have unlimited text and data, which I use the most, and limited talk, which mostly goes unused.

So, what is the point to this whole story? Why am I frustrated that AT&T and Apple are limiting the Skype app? I think maybe it’s the rebel in me. Like most tech kids, I don’t like being told how and when to use my technology. I am a product of my generation. I want to use the program I want, on the device I want, where I want.

I’ve been following the outrage all day online, and I’m interested to know your thoughts. Leave a comment.

-jj

Posted under Apple, Web/Tech

I will never forget the e-mails and phone calls we received last summer, begging us to publicize sandbagging efforts. I truly believe the TV and radio stations played a vital role in spreading the message about volunteer efforts. And while I saw some Facebook and Twitter pleas last year, with the way social networking has continued to grow in the last nine months, I can’t help but wonder. If we were in the same situation right now, would social networking play a larger role in our survival?

Well, there’s no doubt in Fargo.

Here’s part of an AP report about the power of social networking…

“When Kevin Tobosa got word Thursday that a friend needed help building a sandbag dike, he immediately posted a status update on his Facebook page: ‘Heading to 2825 Lilac Lane in North Fargo – needs to be raised another 2 feet.’
When city officials needed volunteers at other dikes, Tobosa suggested setting up a Facebook group. By Thursday, it had attracted more than 4,550 members and was constantly picking up new ones.”

 Another person set up a Twitter feed to track the river levels, @redriveratfargo, and already has 300 followers.

A sociologist interviewed says it’s common for city and county sites and phone lines to be overwhelmed during a crisis, but social networking sites are built to handle the traffic.

Read the full article here.

Interesting reading. Some of it is much too familiar. But, I always find it refreshing to see people connecting in a time of crisis.

Did you use social networking in the wake of last year’s natural disasters? Leave a comment and share your story.

-jj

Posted under Weather, Web/Tech

Anyone who knows me (or has read my bio) know that I love to travel. Unfortunately, my hectic schedule and current budget don’t always make this possible.

Still, I’m always looking for a good deal – and today I found a new way to score cheap lodging.

iStopOver melds an open room post on Craigslist and a hotel reservation. The site serves two audiences. Homeowners/Office managers can list anything from an open room to an entire house on the site complete with photos and prices. Travelers can peruse available spaces in cities all over the world and find something to suit their needs and budget. Most of the prices are well below hotels (~$60 a night in Los Angeles). But, you do need to pay close attention to whether the listing is for a bedroom, or the entire house. Also, many hosts offer options that range from 1 night to several weeks.

The company is Canadian based and still catching on in the U.S. In other words, you’re not going to find destinations for every city. Right now there is nothing listed in Iowa, or nearby Chicago. But, that could easily change as word begins to spread. So far, I’m impressed by the usability of the site. We’ll see if it catches on.

Of course, this requires a shout-out to one of my favorite travel sites, Couchsurfing.com. The site has evolved from a place to share your sleeping space to an international philosophy. Anyone can list their “couch” on the site complete with photos, background info and nearby hot spots. The biggest difference is travelers stay for free when they surf. It’s more about building relationships and maybe finding a local tour guide. While there are some risks involved with opening up your home, I’ve used couchsurfing a few times and always had a good experience.

If you use either one, let me know. I’d love some feedback. Until then, happy traveling.

-jj

Posted under Travel, Web/Tech

I’m doing some research on Twitter for a big journalism conference this weekend where I have to sit on a panel and pretend to be an expert, even though I don’t feel much like one.

As part of my preparation, I’m putting together a list of useful/entertaining Twitter spin-offs. I found myself analyzing my Tweetstats and trying to philosophize about my life, based on how and when I update.

Jenn’s Tweetstats

While I concluded there are no great truths to be found in my charts, here are some observations.

Despite being on Twitter since 2007, I was a fair weather follower up until December, with the exception of a spike in September when I live-tweeted the McCain/Palin rally in Cedar Rapids. Two things facilitated my immersion into Twitter culture – my new phone and the discovery of Tweetdeck.

My Twitter stats say more about my focus (or lack there of) than about my schedule. I tweet very little in the mornings. Work wise – this is probably when I actually have the most to say. But, I get lost in the story that must be posted, the picture that must be fixed, the ad that must be scheduled or the e-mail that must be answered. It only after the News at Noon starts that I am allowed to sit back and take stock. Which includes perusing my Twitter updates.

And most of my other tweets happen in the afternoon, because that’s when I delve into the big projects and need some distraction to refresh my focus.

The only thing I can’t figure out is why I tweet most on Thursdays. It just doesn’t seem to add up. Mondays are my busiest days, Fridays are my slowest. Wednesdays are normally my most productive days. What makes Thursdays so special that they get extra Twitter attention?

This is probably the most pointless post ever. Really. I’m contemplating deleting this, but I already typed it all and put all the links in.

I guess that only way to salvage this is to ask for some advice and input.

If you use social networking of any kind – why? And how do you think journalists can better connect with you online?

If you don’t use social networking – why not? And do you think journalists should?

Leave a comment!

-jj

Posted under Web/Tech

The government has a new program it claims will help 7-9 million Americans either refinance or modify their home loan.On Thursday, MakingHomeAffordable.gov launched, with the purpose of educating home owners about eligibility.

Visitors can answer 4-5 questions, based on whether they want to refinance or modify a loan, and the site will identify whether they are eligible for assistance under the new program. Refinancing is available to those who are making their payments but are unable to refinance to a lower interest because the value of their home has decreased. Modification is available to those who are unable to make their mortgage payments and meet the criteria.

If you can answer yes to all of the questions, the site provides of checklist of information and documents you will need when you talk to your lender.

Only loans owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are eligible for the program.

Although the site is live, many banks are still working to implement the program and may not be accepting applications yet. So – the site says to be patient.

-jj

Posted under Economy

After two people sent me a link to the Boston Globe photo essay on the recession, and I saw it pop up several times on my Twitter feed, I couldn’t resist the temptation to follow the link. I’m always very skeptical of links to begin with, so it takes intense curiosity or repeated suggestions for me to check it out.

Some of the photos were familiar, others thoughtful, and some were upsetting – like the image of an empty newsroom (#26).

With a mental picture of unemployment and job-fair crowds still circling in my head, I ran across a Mashable post about the best resume sites, it was like a giant cosmic consensus that it was time to post some job hunting resources.

Like the stages of grief, Mashable had a five step guide for the recently unemployed. Here’s a quick review.
1. Find support and recover using sites like LaidOffCamp.
2. Manage your money using sites like Mint.com.
3. Make some short-term cash using classifieds like Craigslist.
4. Network using sites like LinkedIn.
5. Find a job using sites like SimplyHired.

It was only about a year and half ago that I was job hunting. And I spared no expense, despite the fact I only had a minimum wage job and nearly no savings. I had video examples on VHS, multimedia examples on DVD, traditional resumes, miniature pocket-sized resumes, business cards, special cards to promote my Web site…anything I could think of to brand myself. Because that’s really what job-hunting is all about. Especially at a time when you’re competing with a few extra million people.

The Resume
This is what will get your foot in the door. While the traditional paper resume is still essential, a multimedia resume can set you apart. A visual interactive resume has become standard for any job involving visual arts. But, for the traditional office-based job – think about how to make your skills come to life. Do you have video or photos of an event that you organized? Put it on a DVD with a digital copy of your resume or create a simple Web page. These are great to hand out at an interview or when you run into a potential job contact. Or for a cheaper alternative that involves less tech knowledge, keep it Web-based on a site like VirtualCV. It will host the elements and puts you into a searchable database for employers.

The Appearance
Earlier this week I was talking with a co-worker about the guilty pleasures that have survived the economic downturn. She commented that her hair stylist says the salon has seen a steady stream of business, but their customers have changed from those looking to indulge, to those looking for a job.

Prive Salon in California has picked up on this and now offers the complete package. You can get a hair style, manicure or eyebrow wax, and a review of your resume. While I haven’t heard of a similar deal available locally, the experts say to be well groomed from your hair to your nails and that your wardrobe should be conservative and fit well.

If you can afford a trip to the Chicago area, the Wardrobe Coach will give you a body fit analysis, a closet audit and even go shopping with you.

The Questions
Interviews take research. You have to know your strengths and weaknesses and understand the company you are asking to work for. A site like Job Interview Questions will walk you through potential questions and interview scenarios. It has guides for what questions you should ask your potential employer, how to negotiate a salary and the post-interview follow-up.

Other tips or stories to share – leave a comment!

-jj

Posted under Uncategorized

Okay – maybe it’s lame to use the blog name as a post title. But I figured since the blog is actually called “On the Download,” maybe I should chat a bit about what I’m actually downloading.

I’m not gonna lie, podcasts and I had a falling out up until lately. There wasn’t a big fight or particular reason, just a general distancing. When podcasts and I first met, it was hot and heavy, like any new relationship. I remember sitting in a college classroom and actually dissecting the make-up of a podcast, learning how to write the code and post it on a very simple Web page. Ahh, the early days. Initially it was interest that kept us together. Then, it was necessity. When I moved to London, it was a 45 minute commute each way from my tiny little flat to the newsroom. Music was expensive, but podcasts -and occasionally a discarded newspaper – were free entertainment.

When I moved back to Midwest America, a five minute commute cut down on the necessity for podcasts and cable television nearly eliminated the desire.

But, on a recent roadtrip to Des Moines with our 5 p.m. producer, podcasts and I had a chance to rekindle the flames of affection. Maria introduced me to some of her favorite podcasts. Some made us laugh, others inspired intelligent conversations. I arrived home and sat in bed – pouring through thousands of podcasts and getting to know them all over again.

Here’s what have become some of my favorites over the last few weeks.

Meet The Press:
Okay, maybe a little predictable, but not purposely self-promotional. I’ve always loved MTP. I was one of those big nerds in high school that watched the reruns on Sunday evenings. Nowadays, I definitely don’t wake up early enough to watch it on Sunday mornings, and why not watch a little political banter during a good run at the gym. My iPhone props up perfectly on the treadmill and David Gregory helps to distract me from the pain in my side or the fact that I’m very thirsty.

Indie Spotlight:
I’m not a big fan of the iTunes machine. I frequently change my country of residence so I can buy overpriced music from the European iTunes store because the American iTunes store has a scaled down and pathetic selection. But, I do enjoy their Indie Spotlight podcast. This isn’t the type you hit play and walk away. It’s a 12 minute sampling of 40 or so artists. It’s all about finding something to peak your interest and investigate later. It’s not meant to be something you soak in.

Wait, Wait…Don’t Tell Me!
Love, love, love this podcast. It’s really a radio show. An NPR radio show to be exact. Which might explain part of why I love it. I love all of the NPR shows/podcasts (Political Rewind, Fresh Air, Technology, Pop Culture, On the Media). Wait, Wait…Don’t Tell Me is a quiz show based on news events with a bit of humor thrown in between. I love listening to it in the morning. Gets me thinking and makes me laugh.

Couch to 5K with Robert Ullrey:
Robert claims to be a runner (I say claims to be because I’m always skeptical). He decided he wanted to run a 5K, so he put together a series of podcasts to help him train. It follows a running program he found online. He gives instructions set to a decent collection of running music. I have my doubts that I’ll be ready for a 5k in nine weeks. I’ve always been more of an elliptical, aerobics or pilates person, but I’m on week two, so we’ll see how it goes. Robert is there to tell you when to run and when to slow down. He has a dry, steady voice. And what it lacks in enthusiasm, it has in reassurance. I’ve used these coaching podcasts before. I have a couple from Nike that I like. My favorite is the OkGo treadmill workout. But the Roberty Ullrey version is free and so far, gives just as good of a workout.

Now that I’m back together with podcasts, I’m looking for suggestions. Leave a comment with your favs.

-jj

Posted under Web/Tech

As much as I love my job, at least once a week I have to fight the urge to drive to the nearest airport and buy a plane ticket. The destination doesn’t matter much, I just feel the need to go and explore. I grew up traveling, moving from place to place, and I will never be able to fully suppress that wandering spirit. In the end my responsible side (and more likely my lack of financial resources) convince me to stay close to home.

Well, last week, I had the pleasure of meeting and chatting with one of two Waterloo natives who have decided to give in to their traveling desires and will travel to 65 countries in 365 days. (I’m so jealous!)

Marc Johnson and Dave Huting grew up in Waterloo and graduated from West High in 2003. Dave went to Iowa State and Marc went to UNI. Both have left Iowa to pursue careers, but thought their hometown and college crowd might be interesting in their upcoming adventure. Dave and I have been exchanging e-mails and my first question was simple. Why?

His answer:

“Three years since we caught the travel bug, after over a year of working our 9-5′s, with no immediate end in sight, we decided not to put it off any longer.  We are both young, healthy, single.  We share a passion for travel and photography.  We realized that the longer we put this off, the less likely it becomes it will ever happen. So a plan was born. We were going to do this, period.”

Unlike my spur of the moment planning, these two have spent months researching and writing profile sheets for each country they plan to visit and meticulously calculating exactly what the cost will be. So far – their estimated budget is about $50,000. And that number is no coincidence. The project is currently one of the top ten in the running for exactly $50,000 as part of Microsoft’s Name Your Dream Assignment project. The contest is meant to sponsor creative and well-thought out photography. As long as Dave and Marc are in the top 20 when voting ends on April 3, they will be one of the finalists. Then a panel of experts will look over each application for creativity, experience and planning. So – here’s the plug for you to vote early and vote often.

While the hotels and transportation are economical, the equipment to document the trip is not. The two friends plan to use satellite Internet and HD cameras to capture the entire trip and upload it to their Web site, www.exposingthebeauty.com.

Dave is an amateur photographer – and I use the word amateur loosely because the pictures on his Facebook page are breathtaking! Their goal is to capture the beauty they see but also take us along for the ride.

“We hope to provide many a means of escaping reality by bringing the sights, sounds, wonders and dangers of our grand adventure into their hearts and homes, through the growing availability of HD TV and high-speed Internet,” Dave said.

If they win, I’m sure there will be many days – especially during an Iowa winter – that I will escape with them to the jungles of Asia. If I can’t make the trip myself, I guess I’ll have to live vicariously through them.

-jj

Posted under Travel

As a member of Generation Y (18-32 year-olds), I will admit that we subscribe to the belief that the Internet is our playground. We understand it, we use it, we dominate it. At least that’s what we think.

Perhaps that’s why it is so fascinating for me to see my parents trying to use the Internet. I taught my mom to blog and my dad to Google. I am intermittently frustrated and impressed by their progress as Internet users. And when I run into a Baby Boomer who quizzes me on connection speeds and scripting – I feel humbled.

The truth is – there’s no learning curve for my generation when it comes to adopting social networking or learning a new computer program at work. We’ve been using computers since we were at least in our teens. And for the Millenials it will be even more intuitive as most of them were using basic computers before they started school. Don’t believe me – watch the new Microsoft commercials.

But for the older generations, the concept of making dinner reservations online or texting a colleague with a work question, required more than learning which buttons to push. It required a cultural shift.

In Tanzania it is fairly expensive to use your cell phone, but free to text message. So I spent a two week family vacation convincing my parents it is more cost-effective for them to text their friends if they have a quick message to relay. They were horrified at first and felt it was extremely rude. But as the week went on and they received countless texts from close friends, work colleagues and even acquaintances, they realized times have changed and they needed to change too.

Well, despite my generation’s self-proclaimed ownership of the Web, we’re losing ground. That’s according to new data from the Pew Internet and American Life project. Check out this table.

The study claims, “Generation X (not Y) is the most likely group to bank, shop, and look for health information online. Boomers are just as likely as Generation Y to make travel reservations online. And even Silent Generation Internet users are competitive when it comes to email.”

Interesting. Very interesting.

You can read the full study here. Thoughts? Leave a comment.

-jj

Posted under Uncategorized