Bernie's World

We moved!

2007-06-11T17:10:00.000-04:00

It totally did not require a Ryder truck! All it took was a hosting account at... well, not an advertiser, so no plug. BUT, you can find my Wordpress blog for Bernies World (same lo-cal content, same chef, just different china) at:

http://worldofbernie.com

The podcast feed is still at http://feeds.feedburner.com/berniesworld

Get back at the jerk kicking your seat

2007-06-02T21:10:00.001-04:00

Regal Theaters is rolling out a new device in their theaters. I can't wait to see this thing in action.

Is the guy behind you talking on his phone? Are those girls in front of you throwing popcorn at their friends? Is the sound out? No problem. Just call the manager using the "Guest Response System" and they will come in a jiffy.

I guess when you have 28 theaters to manage concurrently, you need to enlist a little vigilante corps. Sign me up! Just let that couple in front of me start making out. I'm all over that!

Episode 55- Live to Tape

2007-06-01T12:04:00.001-04:00

Click the tape machine to play the file.

Show notes:

I have so many podcasts to edit, I couldn't possibly edit another (see post production note below), so this one will be live to tape. I still have some great podsafe music though!

Songs in this episode:

She's So Amazing- Junior
I Want A Better Life- The Shakes
If This Geek Ruled The World- Geoff Smith
99 Words for Boobs- The FuMP

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Visit All American Hot Sauce- 10% off Coupon Code XX17762007XX
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me at bernie (AT) worldofbernie (dot) com
Shownotes are always available at worldofbernie.com
Outro by Johnne Tuzza

(post production note- leaving my laptop power cable behind at work, I ended up finishing this episode in GarageBand, which I had never done before! All my pre-recorded material was on my laptop, I had trouble getting it to mp3... it was a disaster that took longer to edit than most episodes I'd done previously. The best laid plans...)

When did you last backup your work?

2007-05-27T07:53:00.001-04:00

I'm in the midst of moving my files from my old PC to my new Mac, as well as cleaning off the meager hard drive of the laptop I use for work and recording. It got me thinking of the consequences of not having a good backup.

For those of you who think it could never happen to you, go over and ask the folks at Business 2.0 magazine. They'll tell you it can happen to anyone at any time. They know, having recently lost an entire issue of their magazine prior to printing.

via Techcrunch

Technorati Tags: business magazine backup failure harddrive storage

Episode 54- Office for Mac costs HOW MUCH?

2007-05-18T01:01:00.001-04:00

Click the mini to hear this episode.

Show notes:

Yeah baby! I got a Mac. The only problem is, all my Mac software is decades old, and I own a few thousand in WINDOWS software. Ah well, what to do? Bad weather continues here in the Northeast, but the sun is out now...

Songs in this episode:

Digg the Code- Geoff Smith
I Have A Song To Sing- Ronnie
Last Of The Superheroes- American Heartbreak
Smoke and Mirrors- Grand Atlantic

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Visit All American Hot Sauce- 10% off Coupon Code XX17762007XX
Visit payforthepodcast.com- check out the bargains and support the podcast
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me at bernie (AT) worldofbernie (dot) com
Shownotes are always available at worldofbernie.com
Outro by Johnne Tuzza

Powered by ScribeFire.

Technorati Tags: podcast, podsafe, geoff smith, digg, atlantic, mac, mini, weather

Yikes!

2007-05-17T08:48:00.001-04:00

Due to a Feedburner error this morning, I had a moment of heart failure.

It's all good. Feedburner acknowledges the issue, and we can't really complain. I mean, they're free, right? And they've given me nearly 100% uptime, right?

Episode 53- Who The Heck Is Vinny?

2007-05-03T08:15:00.000-04:00

Click the question mark to listen to this episode.

Show notes:
Peter Parker and Clark Kent? No contest. Bernie's true identity comes out in this episode. The weather is great, the Son's show went well, podcasting may get quiet if the recording industry gets it's way, and the Hot Sauce contest heats up!

Songs in this episode:

Wonderful Tragedy- Grand Atlantic
I Believe- Peter Searcy
Bonnie Jean- Artie Traum
What Was I Thinking?- Junior

Links:

SoundExchange

Episode 52- The Year In Review

2007-04-27T23:09:00.001-04:00

Click the calendar to hear this episode.

Show notes:
It's been a year? I can't believe it! A quick look back at where we've been, closure on Podcamp NYC, the new production schedule, and a contest to win free hot sauce! Songs in this episode:

Panic At The Disco- I Write Sins, Not Tragedies
3 Blind Mice- Call Me Beautiful
Laura Clapp- Let It Rain
Geoff Smith- Set The Music Free

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network

Visit All American Hot Sauce- 10% off Coupon Code XX17762007XX
Visit payforthepodcast.com- check out the bargains and support the podcast
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me at bernie (AT) worldofbernie (dot) com
Shownotes are always available at worldofbernie.com
Outro by Johnne Tuzza
Powered by ScribeFire.

A Gift for You

2007-04-26T14:53:00.000-04:00

I've recently requested and received a coupon code from Suffern Brothers, the makers of All American Hot Sauce. This coupon code entitles you to a 10% discount on your total order, but you have to act fast! It expires at the end of June. The code is XX17762007XX.

Why should you support All American Hot Sauce?

5 different types of Hot Sauce- (Full-Bodied, Mild, Bayou, Southwest, and Northeast)
They come with Free Recipes!
"The All American Hot Sauce, LLC, is a corporation with a conscience. Seven percent of all profits go to organizations that improve the lives of Americans. We currently purchase phone cards for our military. Proceeds from our Bayou-Classic sauce are donated to the Gulf region hit hard by Hurricane Katrina." (from their website)
Cheap and yucky Hot Sauce is easy to find. Quality Hot Sauce, on the other hand, is not.

You 10% discount means you can have the America The Beautiful assortment for $18 instead of $20.

Note: I receive no part of your purchase, but I do receive the satisfaction of supporting a worthy organization, and the metrics to find out who shops from my podcasts!

Sorrow

2007-04-17T13:51:00.001-04:00

Many of the blogs I read are Higher Ed blogs. I am relieved to know you all to be safe and well, but after VA Tech, I'm sure you are somewhat shaken nonetheless.

I'll be praying tonight for you, your colleagues, and your students. My family and I send our love to you and those who suffer today.

Powered by ScribeFire.

Episode 51- Call Me Noah

2007-04-16T23:42:00.001-04:00

Click the Ark to download this episode

Show notes:

Where is my umbrella? It's raining cats and dogs, the roads are flooded, but at least we have some great podsafe music, including a Podcast World Premiere. Bernie's van broke down again, the company doesn't want to cover it under warranty OR give him a loaner car. Finally, our hearts go out to the parents of the Virginia Tech students terrorized, hurt, or killed today. Songs in this episode:

Q*Ball-Sinking
NoCo- Aloud To Me
The Four Bags- Not Titled
Laura Hughes- Full Of Grace

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Visit payforthepodcast.com- check out the bargains and support the podcast
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me at bernie (AT) worldofbernie (dot) com
Shownotes are always available at worldofbernie.com
Outro by Johnne Tuzza
Powered by ScribeFire.

NOTE: Podshow appears to be having a DNS refresh issue, so I may be late posting the audio. I'll do the band links later. Sorry guys!

Episode 50- Podcamp NYC

2007-04-11T15:24:00.001-04:00

Click the torch to play the file

Show notes:

Bernie is on his way home from the opening event of Podcamp NYC. There are probably a few too many drinks involved, but it's clearly an exciting time in the history of Bernies World. Vinny met all kinds of cool folks at the Networking Party at Slate, including Brother Love! Bernie compares "old school marketing" to podcasting. Oh, and what the hell is a podcamp? Songs in this episode:

Push- Brother Love
Foot in Your Door- Geoff Smith
I Know You're There- Matthew Ebel
Girlfriends Ghost- Sophia Ramos

Podcamp NYC- An Epiphany at Easter?

2007-04-08T23:20:00.001-04:00

"like, this one time... at Podcamp..."

So I went to Podcamp NYC hoping I would learn some things and meet some people. I did, and I did. I want to give all of the life-changing people I met the time and credit they deserve, and will certainly do so in time. Right now, however, I continue to process the sessions that caused me to think. I mean, REALLY think.

As I look back on 49 episodes of Bernies World, 12 episodes of Digital Father and 6 episodes of Podcast for Educators, I realize that I have some changes I need to make. Changes I want to make. Changes for the better, I hope, but changes that may affect the nature of the blogs and podcasts I have been doing for the past year. What makes this so challenging is the fact that these creations are my children. I created them. I'm attached to them in many ways. They are a part of me and are at their core my soul bared to you.

Further complicating the matter is you, dear reader and listener. Many of you have been with me for a long time. You have come to expect certain things of me, and change risks the future of our relationship. I value your time and caring feedback, and I feel I may betray you if I make changes.

And so, dear friends, though you favor me by being here, I ask yet another favor. As things here at the blog and podcast evolve in the near future (and always), I wish for you to share your feelings. Let me know what you like, and what you wish were different. When things don't work, please yell. When things get better, please cheer. My goal of 52 podcast episodes may be tough, but with one nearly ready to post, I will get there!

Technorati Tags: blog, podcast, blogging, feedback

Episode 49- Holy Thursday!

2007-04-06T01:15:00.001-04:00

Click the church to play the file

Show notes:

It's Holy Thursday (really) and Bernie is on his way to and from his church music job. Does he preserve harmony in the household, or does he attempt to direct his wife? Hmmm. Also, Bernie is not the guy to use his free time productively. Well, of course not- he's a podcaster!

Waking Up In The Neighborhood- Planet of Women
Topless Girl- Oland
Silver Streak- Rich and Royal
Drive Away- Matthew Ebel

Technorati Tags: podsafe, church, easter, choir, music

Desktop Meme

2007-04-02T09:38:00.000-04:00

I was over at StyleyGeeks site and took in the desktop meme. So, here's mine.
I've had photo's for a while, but it gets so cluttered, and photo's make it hard to find what you want. I created the stripes last night, and thene saw this meme.

I showed you mine- now you have to show me yours!

Episode 48- You Don't Need an iPod!

2007-03-31T00:13:00.001-04:00

Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:

You really don't need an iPod to listen to my show- just click the player on the side, or click the Direct Link and your computer will play it! The Easter Break starts today! There's a week of church gigs, a chance to get out of the office, and a possible live Bernies World using Talkshoe. Bernie also freaked out the kids this week with Twittervision, IP Tracking, and your Amazon Shopping list is public, so you better remove that copy of Sex - Madonna Music in this episode:

You Don't Need and iPod- Uncle Seth
Quit My Day Job- Geoff Smith
OK James- The Four Bags
His DVD- Gilly Slinn

Episode 47- Sunshine!

2007-03-28T00:50:00.001-04:00

Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:

Is it Spring already? Bernie was locked inside all morning, but he got a little sunshine in the afternoon and is sharing it with you. The Son is doing a musical, Scoble pointed me to an incident of concern on the internet, and BRUCE! Music in this episode:

No Place for Happiness- JetVicious
Walk With You- John Keenan
This Time- Ginnicide
Broken Radio- Jesse Malin with Bruce Springsteen

A Sad Day

2007-03-26T17:19:00.001-04:00

A Sad Man

Originally uploaded by colinpeddle.

Update: I'm taking the links out of the last 3 posts, because Kathy has stated she now has more trouble than she could have hoped for. That's not why I did this. It's a shame that a few jerks have to be this way, but it's not for me to decide.

Kathy- I'm sorry. You didn't ask to be the poster child for internet safety. You wrote to tell your readers why you were canceling some speaking engagements. I wish you the best in whatever you do.

Update: This is a fairly lively topic. I cross posted on Digital Father, and I will continue the conversation there. I feel it's a better forum for this discussion, but I wanted everyone to know about it. Please drop by to keep up.

I feel very passionate about freedoms. Freedom to worship. Freedom from fear. Freedom of speech.

However, there are certain types of speech that are not protected. I just read an entry on Creating Passionate Users about Kathy, who had to cancel a number of public appearances because she received death threats on her blog.

Oh my God! These were not your run of the mill "I don't like what you write" kind of responses. These were planned, detailed, BACKED UP WITH VISUAL EXAMPLES (!!) threats. Who wakes up in the morning and says "today I think I'll photoshop a noose into a picture and post it on the internet'?

I can't believe this could happen. Of course, I do, because I have met these people in all walks of life. But I've come to feel so free here. Saying what I think. Linking to other blogs when I find something cute and funny. Guess what? That might be one cute and funny post in between hateful, disgusting rants. That apparently may have been the case here. Jeanne Sessums may have linked the the blog that spawned this disgusting rant.

As a lesson to us all, tread carefully in this new world. Stop by Kathy's site while you are out and about and lend your support. I've stayed home for many reasons. I've been tired. I've been embarrassed. I've been angry. I've even been afraid of terrorists.

I've never had to be afraid because I wrote a blog. God help us all.

Episode 46- All A-Twitter

2007-03-24T23:55:00.001-04:00

Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:

Bernie is totally hooked on Twitter and Tumblr. Mom's big birthday bash is tonight. Big plans for Digital Father Podcast. I'm going to Podcamp NYC. Music in this episode:

Dead Penguin- 3 Blind Mice
Nobody's Watching- Steve Swanson
Inertia- Cat Jahnke
Mine Again- Black Lab

Bum Rush the Charts NOW!

2007-03-22T15:24:00.000-04:00

It's time. Let's show the Media Giants that we can influence decisions in new ways, using new media. Click the fist below to purchase "Mine Again" by Black Lab. Support a band that got rooked by not one but two record labels, sponsor scholarships, and make a statement on behalf of blogging, podcasting, and non-traditional media.

Update: We came, we saw, we rushed. Click the fist to get the latest news on how we did!

New Web Tools

2007-03-21T21:09:00.000-04:00

I've become particularly enamored of a couple of tools lately, and they've both shown up here. I though I would tell you about them and why I like them.

Twitter is generally an IM tool, but I've been using it just as a fun tool to add to the blog. I can quickly post what I'm doing, where I am, or what I'm thinking. It's instantly added to the feed, and made available on the Twitter Public Timeline. It has an RSS feed of your "tweets", the "tweeting" of your friends, or someone you're stalking! Join up and you can appear on the Bernie Feed. Oh, and real people tell me it's an addictive IM tool, where you and your friends can "tweet" one another with just a few shortcuts.

Tumblr was a complete waste of time, as far as I could see at first blush. Then I tried it. I'm using it now to do the stuff del.icio.us used to do for me. As a blogger, I read a few hundred posts each day. Some of them are cool enough to share, but don't require anything more than a note to you that says "look at this." I hate it when my blog has short posts. I don't want Bernies World to be less, I want more. How do I get those little, funny things out to you, though? I tried the del.icio.us feed, but it's kind of blah. Tumblr to the rescue.

Tumblr is not for anything more than a graphic, a link, or a video. You can add a comment if you want, but it's not necessary. What makes Tumblr work so well is the fact that it's so very easy to add a post. You drag a "Share on Tumblr" button to your button bar, and when you land on a page you want to share, you click. Tumblr makes a pretty good guess of what you want to add and gets your post jump-started. If there are multiple pictures on the page, it allows you to choose which one you want to blog. Tumblr, by the way, will accept your RSS feeds, so you could easily feed your blog, podcast, Twitter, and whatever else you want and make it a one-stop location for sharing. I will blog about Tumblr over at the Podcast For Educators because I have some great ideas as to how it can work for teachers.

These tools each meet different needs, but they are both cool in a Web 2.0 way. If you want me to see what you're doing with these tools, let me know. I won't IM (I can't justify the $$$) but I will tweet you on the web. And I'll Tumblr everything I think you might like.

Episode 45- The Nor'easter

2007-03-18T18:00:00.001-04:00

Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:
It's a giant snow storm, and Bernie has to walk to the grocery store to pick up some stuff. Join him as he trudges a half mile to the store and back. Music in this episode:

Man Down- Steve Stellavato
Battesimo Del Fuoco (which translates to "Baptism By Fire")- The Dear Hunter
Write Him A Letter- Paul Castle
Unlikely Messenger- Brett Mikels

10 Weird Things About Me

2007-03-17T20:19:00.001-04:00

I got tagged by The Contessa, and never got around to responding, but I have a few minutes to catch up on links and blogs. So here they are- 10 Weird Things About Me!

I was a School Safety Patrol Sergeant in Bluefield Elementary School when I was in 6th Grade.
My parents were divorced, and I was home alone frequently. As a result, I do not like being home without the T.V. on, even now.
I took 7 years of dance lessons, and worked at the dance studio when I was younger.
My mom went away on vacation once when I was 18, and I stole her standard-shift Ford Fiesta to go to work. I did not know how to drive it at the time, and had only a Learners Permit.
I held the record for truancy and cutting in my Middle and High Schools.
As a result of #5, I do not have a traditional High School Diploma.I got an Equivalency Diploma at age 21.
When my wife and I bought our house, most of my high school friends blew off the housewarming to go to a party in D.C. We had a giant fight and I don't really speak to them anymore (with the single exception of Peet Fointed).
I have been fired from 4 jobs in my life.
I was driving home from a friends wedding and hit a guard rail when a bottle of windshield washer fluid fell over in the car. Everyone else thinks I fell asleep behind the wheel.
At one point in high school, I dated a girl one year older than me. The girl I had dated previously had been her babysitter, 11 years older than me.

I would say, even for my long-term friends, that there is at least one thing on this list you didn't know. I'll not tag anyone else since most of my close friends were tagged already. However, if you read this and choose yourself, leave comment here and consider yourself tagged!

Snow Storm = Link Storm

2007-03-16T07:09:00.000-04:00

Snow is not the only thing accumulating here at the farm. Links have been accumulating in my del.icio.us account forever, it seems. I thought it about time to get out the shovel and share.

Add This- A one-stop button for your readers. Add this to your blog, podcast, or website and users get a single, easy to find button for whatever bookmarking tool they choose. They have a feed tool as well!
Comcast Customer Uses "Unlimited Service" Excessively, Gets Disconnected For A Year- Spending too much time on YouTube? Watch out! You may get banned.
Domain Name Scoop- Get all your stats in one place.
Free Culture- A simple yet masterful presentation on creativity by Lawrence Lessig.
How-To Fix an iPod that Won’t Boot- I have been through three 20gb ipods, and there comes a time when one has to say "enough is too much!" I tried this fix. It worked. Not for the faint-hearted.
Line Rider- Kill an entire day playing this game. Create your own virtual sledding hill, and watch our intrepid test pilot shatter himself into little tiny pieces as you desperately scramble to remember your HS physics.
Masterpieces Or Fakes? The Joyce Hatto Scandal- If you missed this, you have to read it. Husband, so in love with sick wife, steals the music of others to make her life. Original Story- The Evidence- The Apology.
Non-Newtonian And Ferro Fluid?!?- If you've ever put together corn starch and water, you HAVE to see this video.
Kevin Kelly's Cool Tools- I first found the Sweater Stone here, then the Back Buddy. I love this type of stuff. So does Kevin. So will you.
Tech Support in Medieval Times- No explanation required. Just laugh aloud with me.

That's ten. Enough for now.

powered by performancing firefox

Content and Comment Policies

2007-03-15T22:13:00.001-04:00

Since Creative Commons has published a new license (3.0), I decided it might be a good idea to create some policies here, just for the sake of having them. I don't expect I'll need them, but one never knows.

Creating content is a complicated process. While there are some great copyright and comment policies on the 'net, I like to adhere to a few simple ideas.

When I Build on The Works of Others: To bring you news, I must occasionally refer to other blogs, podcasts, and online resources. As I would expect others to respect my work, I attempt to respect yours as well. As such, if you believe I have not properly attributed works to you, please feel contact me using the information below. I will do my best to comply with your requests in a timely manner. There is no need for C letters, angry posts, or flaming comments.
When You Use My Works: The original works I create here are mine to share, and I give you license to borrow. This blog, podcast and other original content are protected under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License. You are free under that license to Share and/or Remix the work, provided that you attribute the original work to me. Please do not imply that I endorse your work unless I have specifically done so. You may request my endorsement by contacting me using the information below.
My Authority: I'm a smart guy, but not that smart. You should neither accept my word as gospel nor dismiss it as hogwash. Please use it as one of a variety of sources, most of which are readily accessible on the internet. Isn't that how you got here in the first place?
Comments: Blogs and podcasts are meant to be interactive. You are welcome to participate by adding written comments to the blog/shownotes, emailing me, or calling and leaving voice comments. I welcome discourse of all types. However, I do reserve the right to delete comments that are inappropriate or offensive. I shall be the sole arbiter of comments, but as a rule, those comments that will be deleted would be discriminatory, racist, sexist, or clearly spam. I do not delete comments solely because they offer contrary points of view. In fact, I welcome them.
Tone: Blogs and podcasts can easily be misconstrued because they lack facial expression, body language, and sometimes context. If you find yourself on the uncomfortable end of the tone of any content here, please feel free to say so. I will try to be considerate of such concerns in future posts.
Affiliations: I love blogging and podcasting. I do it for my own enjoyment and the enjoyment and information of others. You should know these things about my works:

What I write is not sanctioned by my employer, nor should any content be considered the opinion or policy of my employer.
I do not receive direct compensation from any vendor whose products I review or endorse.
I could be convinced to write on your behalf. However, if I do I will disclose such affiliation clearly within the content.

Affiliate and Associate Fees: I do have Affiliate and Associate accounts. Occasionally the links on the site will send you to a sales site from which I receive a fee if you complete a purchase. Under no circumstances are you charged a premium by using these links. In fact, you may receive a discount. However, you are under no obligation to make purchases for content, nor do I require recompense for content.

Original Content on this site copyright 2007 by Vincent Green

email bernie AT worldofbernie.com

(206) 350-3861

Episode 44- Cruise Control

2007-03-14T22:03:00.000-04:00

Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:
Bernie has a 5 hour round trip. While on it, he talks about the Homeless Conference he's attending, computer woes, and wearing slippers while driving. Your mileage may vary. Music in this episode:

Real Sad Time- Steve Stellavato
Mother- Kevin Reeves
Rescue Me- Jennifer Jayden
Run- The Tones

Episode 43- Compressor Limiter? I Don't Even Know Her!

2007-03-12T22:38:00.001-04:00

Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:

It's a first! Mrs. Bernie makes an appearance in a rare drunken interview (Bernie's drunk, not The Mrs.) Bernie's Mom turns 60. Skippy sees The Who! Are there no talented DJ's out there? All awesome podsafe music, too!

We Rock- Lifted Culture
In The Coffee Shop, When- Andy Stone
Become- Pete Hopkins
Baby, For You- Andrew Lubman

Happy Blogiversary

2007-03-12T11:02:00.000-04:00

One Year Ago Today!

Well, it's official.

I'll be leaving my current position at the end of the school year. This means I'm looking for a gig.

Assistant Principal or Principal, matters not.

O.K.- it matters a little. The money matters too.

The true story of my departure will remain mine to tell, when the time is right. However, there are a lot of rumors out there. I will tell you that the ones which have me doing something illegal or untoward are completely false. Let's just say it is a mutual choice between the Superintendent and I.

Let me know if anything pops. I'd love to take a look at any job that you'd like to suggest.

Since that post, I have written more than 180 posts on this blog (plus about 195 posts on my other blogs). There are 56 podcasts with my voice out there on the net (heaven help us all!) plus 40 or 50 choir rehearsals and performances.

To think it all started with a boot in the butt. Well, if that's all it takes, maybe the world will be seeing two more blogs in the future.

I owe a special thanks to those who I've read, and who've been reading me. As for the non-lurkers, thanks to: Katie, Rich, Kate, Lindsay, Dean Dad, Adventure Dad, Quarter Life Crisis, Angry Pregnant Lawyer, AM, Jessica, BitchLab, Propterdoc, Sam, and Penguin. I'm proud to have spawned a few blogs as well. besides my newer blog (Digital Father, which started as Will Daddy Come Too?), I feel proud to have been there to watch the blogtism of Lisa, The Contessa, Maple Mama, and Sierra.

Dear Reader: For your time and feedback, I owe you a debt of thanks. I would be in dire straits right now were it not for the fellowship and support I receive from friends, readers, and listeners. I know that some of you wear all three of those hats, and for that I love you with all my narcissistic heart. I hope the blog and podcast bring you a few minutes of relief from life's little suck-y points. For me, they have become the best therapy money didn't buy.

Delayed is not Denied

2007-03-10T17:20:00.001-05:00

I'm delaying today's podcast for a day.

You see, I'm off to our church's St. Patrick's Day Dinner Dance. I spent the day recording a piano track for my choir performance tonight. I did NOT feel like lugging a digital piano there, or paying to have their piano tuned, only to have me play it live like the survival pianist* I am.

I will try to get some good audio, but I will at least have good stories. Among my plans for tonight-
- Calculate the mean age at my table.
- Calculate the mean age of all attendees.
- See who can get the most drunk.
- Pick the best and worst DJ-selected songs of the evening.

I'll have my audio recorder, so I may go nuts and get some good audio as well. Or bad audio. The latter may make for a better podcast, but we'll see what happens.

Sorry for those of you counting on today's podcast. I'll make it up to you when this one gets posted, I promise!

*Survival Pianist- I've learned enough piano to get by, and I can support a choir, but you wouldn't want me playing at your wedding or cocktail party.

Photo courtesy of smallformat.org

Sniper Rifle Implants Chip from 1km away? Feels like a Mosquito Bite!

2007-03-08T15:02:00.001-05:00

Empire North, a company from Denmark, claims to have introduced this item in Beijing in 2002, and showed a prototype in NYC in April 2004. I haven't seen it yet, and many have disputed whether it could work, but the idea scares the pants off ya, doesn't it? Every summer night I'll now be scanning the trees, looking for foes in the distance. Every barbecue is a terrorist playground!

first found at CrunchGear.

Episode 42- I Was Late For Everything Today!

2007-03-08T00:11:00.001-05:00

Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:
Bernie needs a new computer- should it be a Mac? There was a big fight with the wife the other day, too. Find out all the details here, in between these podsafe tunes:

ENRi- The Performer
Jen Foster- The Underdogs (no, it's not the Jen Foster I grew up with...)
Ben Johnson- Most of All
Simply MC- Mona Lisa

A Tragic Juxtaposition

2007-03-06T18:03:00.000-05:00

Bum Rush The Charts

2007-03-06T10:33:00.000-05:00

The text below is directly from Bum Rush The Charts:

Podcasting gets little respect from traditional media. To them we're little more than a joke, than amateurs. What they don't understand is that podcasting is more than just a delivery mechanism - it's a social movement. People are growing sick of the watered-down, cookie-cutter content that networks and record companies expect us to enjoy. We want and deserve more. Big corporate media derives its power by having the resources to mass market their product in a unified effort, which is why they think they're better than us. On March 22, 2007, we're going to give you a chance to change that.

A bunch of us podcasters started thinking, we can do better. We can match and exceed the reach of big media, corporate media, labels, and the entrenched interests. That's why, on March 22nd, the podcasting community is going to take an indie podsafe music artist to number one on the iTunes singles charts as a demonstration of our reach to Main Street and our purchasing power to Wall Street. The track we've chosen is "Mine Again" by the band Black Lab. A band, mind you, that was not just dropped from not just one, but two major record labels (Geffen and Sony/Epic) and in the process forced them to fight to get their own music back. We picked them because making them number one, even for just one day, will remind the RIAA record labels of what they turned their backs on - and who they ignore at their peril.

What's more, we're going to take it a step beyond that. We've signed up as an affiliate of the iTunes Music Store, and every commission made on the sale of "Mine Again" will be donated to college scholarships, partly because it's a worthy cause, but also partly because college students are among the most misunderstood and underestimated groups of people by big media.

If you believe in the power of new media, on March 22nd, 2007, take 99 cents and 2 minutes of your time to join the revolution and make iTunes "Mine Again". If you're a content producer (blogger, podcaster, etc.), we're asking you to join up with us and help spread the word to your listeners. Nothing would prove the power of new media more than showing corporate media that not only can we exceed their reach and match their purchasing power, but that we can also do it AND make a positive difference in the world. If we can succeed with this small example, then there's no telling what can do next.

For more details, come visit bumrushthecharts.com (bum rush the charts dot com) or send an e-mail to bumrushthecharts@gmail.com if you want to help out. It doesn't matter where you are or who you podcast with, we'd love to have you on board.

On March 22nd, I'll be posting a link to participate. PLEASE DON'T BUY THE TUNE NOW! For now, spread the word and help us let the large media producers that the world is changing, and we're leading the change, not them.

Episode 41- Blizzards, Rain... What's next, Locusts?

2007-03-03T20:58:00.001-05:00

Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:

Bernie gets the EXPLICIT tag today. Nutty weather and unfortunate tragedies. More traffic jams, procrastinating, and the idea that won't go away. Oh, and don't forget awesome podsafe music, like...

PM- Of Woman and Man
Ivy League- Broken Dream
Silver Dogs- Bedlam Boys**
Red Carpet Rats-Creepin In

*yes, I know now it was not Ohio State, and it wasn't weather related. Please don't write!
**Yeah, I got artist and title transposed in the show- oops!

powered by performancing firefox

Haiku Saturday

2007-03-03T15:39:00.000-05:00

I just popped over to Dispatches from an MFA-Seeking Writer. I enjoyed the blog, but on Saturday morning, I was completely taken with "Haiku Saturday". The idea is simple, yet ingenious.

Our host Brian posts a Haiku, then the topic for the next Haiku. The first commenter writes a Haiku on that topic, and proposes the next. It's like that driving game Animals /Cities /Geography, where you take the last letter of the previous word to start the next. Brian then starts next week with the last topic from the previous week.

I had a hoot with my topic, Push-Up Bras. Check it out and play along. It's better when more people join in!

Episode 40- A Walk To Clear My Head

2007-03-01T00:26:00.001-05:00

Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:

Bernie takes his car to the shop and his daughter skiing (finally!). Poor Anna Nicole should be allowed to R.I.P., but no sympathy for Britney Spears found here. Also, hear about 'the grant that won't write.'

Music in this show-

Ivy League- Lose Control
Sly Joe- You're Coming Home
ENRi- Horizon
Nick Black- Fall to Pieces

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Visit payforthepodcast.com- check out the bargains, support the podcast
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me at bernie (AT) worldofbernie (dot) com
Shownotes are always available at worldofbernie.com

Get Human

2007-02-28T16:36:00.000-05:00

In the spirit of making the web a community which mutually benefits all, drop over to Get Human. Get Human is a database of shortcuts through those myriad voice response systems that have become so popular. Need to get through to a human at Sears Delivery? Press 95111

If you have experience with a particular phone voice mail prompt system, add your knowledge. If, like me, you need to get a human because being on hold for one more minute may assure that you actually end up killing... more time, Get Human will show you the way to get one.

via Cool Tools

Want some tequila with that iPod?

2007-02-25T21:31:00.000-05:00

As I sit here watching the Oscars (procrastinating, and hoping for snow) I'm catching up on a few of the sites I've found recently.

Will It Blend? is actually a marketing tool for commercial blenders. A number of funny videos are designed to show you just how strong and durable the Total Blender is. Check out the blended iPod, and the 12 hour lantern created by blending six 2-hour glow sticks.

If I ever need a $400 blender, this is the one I'll get. In the meantime, I'll be checking out their many videos as I procrastinate

Episode 39- It's a Traffic Jam!

2007-02-24T00:57:00.001-05:00

Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:

It's an evening rush hour, and Bernie is stuck in traffic with the sound of podsafe music in his ears. Hear about the beautiful sunset, the yearning for the old days as a professional musician, changes in the show, and the eternal question of "what should I talk about today?"

Al Stravinsky- If Only
Steve Stellavato- Dangerous Game
Geoff Smith- Don't Ya
Chris Ayer- We Are Birds

Medical Science versus Machines of War

2007-02-22T12:10:00.000-05:00

If you have any feelings on warfare and it's cost in human life, you cannot help but be moved by this amazing recovery. Bob Woodruff, who was injured January 29th 2006 when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) went off near his news team.

What amazes me is the condition he was in after the bombing (as evidenced in the first graphic where shrapnel from the bombing is still embedded in his face) and the condition he is in now (second graphic). I cannot believe that he is back on television and doing his job. Not due to a lack of willingness, but due to a lack of skull bone! They had to replace a portion of his skull.

The stuff they can do with technology is amazing. A man in his condition would surely have died only a short time ago. Now, we can rebuild him. We have the technology. I have no idea if your average line soldier gets this kind of care. I am reminded of the tragedy of war even more by seeing a living victim of bloodshed than by casualty figures. These numbers are very abstract. This is reality, seen up close.

via Dvorak Uncensored, photos courtesy ABC News

Episode 38- There's No Pleasing This Guy

2007-02-21T00:03:00.000-05:00

direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:

Lots of good news, but Bernie still isn't happy. Hear vacation news, SKIING AND SNOW, and career vindication. You'd be happy about this stuff. What the hell is wrong with Bernie?

Intro by Karmyn Tyler
Emerson, Lake & Palmer - From The Beginning
Karmyn Tyler - Drifting
Lee Alexander - Like a Knife
Skybridge - Learn to Trust

Check out the special deals at payforthepodcast.com and support Bernies World.
All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me at bernie (AT) worldofbernie (dot) com
Shownotes are always available at worldofbernie.com
powered by performancing firefox

Momma needs a new pair of shoes

2007-02-19T13:34:00.000-05:00

Caution! Marketing post

I love blogging. I love podcasting.

However, gear costs money, and the wife would love it if I could actually take the hours I spend each day on the net into some income. I hate asking for money, so for now, I won't.

However, if you are an internet shopping type of person, stop by my new website payforthepodcast.com to visit some of your web shopping destinations. Starting there won't add any costs to your shopping, but it does get me a minor referral fee. It may even save you money, such as coupon discounts or free shipping. You'll find a link to big companies such as Amazon there.

I'm adding new websites continuously. If there is a place you regularly shop, let me know by emailing bernie (AT) worldofbernie (DOT) com, and I will try to add it. Thanks again for being a part of the Bernies World experience, and I hope you'll keep coming.

These Macs are Smokin!

2007-02-18T15:54:00.000-05:00

Uneasy Silence put me onto these FLIR photo's of a MacBook when it's cooking. I mean really cooking. In 5 minutes time, this computer got as high as 116 degrees Fahrenheit. Yikes!

FLIR stands for Forward Looking Infrared, and it's what you see on "World's Wildest Police Videos" whenever they are showing you the night images from the chopper. They love to use it when the perp jumps out of the car and runs into the woods. They find him using FLIR.

The uses are numerous. They use them in the military for snipers and surveillance. They have systems designed for maritime use. You can even get your own FLIR system, if you are disposed of some spare cash. Just be sure you save some dough for a lap desk for those intimate moments with your MacBook. Otherwise, your intimates might not be too happy.

Errors

2007-02-17T21:31:00.000-05:00

If you've been trying to get here today, you may have received an error. For that, I apologize.

I've gotten a new domain, and I'm trying to install Wordpress. In the process, I've had a few redirect issues and some general downtime.

I don't know if I'm shifting over to a hosted Wordpress install, but I am working on a new website in addition to the others.

Again- sorry for the errors. If you're here, I guess either you or I has it figured out.

Episode 37- It's Not Over

2007-02-17T00:30:00.000-05:00

Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:

The Road Trip continues from New York into Connecticut... wait... Bernie lives in New York! Quick- turn back! While we're busy getting lost, we chat about being fat, summer vacation plans, and there is still no snow. Music in today's show:

Secondhand Serenade- It's Not Over
Debbie Cassell- The Boatman's White Dog
Paul Castle- Just About Leaving
Rachel Fuller- Shine

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network

Sorry if you got this show twice. I reposted it to fix the audio, which I didn't like. Now it's less reverby and compressed 6:1.

Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me at bernie (AT) worldofbernie (dot) com
Shownotes are always available at worldofbernie.com

To Vista or not to Vista?

2007-02-15T22:38:00.001-05:00

Changing OS is a big decision. You should plan effectively, and all truly successful plans use tools such as flowcharts.

Or so they tell me. I don't know, but this one made me laugh.

I Need Oxygen!

2007-02-14T12:15:00.000-05:00

I covet this.

I've been getting back into music, and the thought of working at the digital piano for MIDI is too much. I want to be able to work at a desk.

However, I just can't justify it. After:

the holidays;
a paycut;
a new projector;
a new portable recorder;
an anticipated breakdown of my own computer,

it just isn't the right time.

I can dream, though.

powered by performancing firefox

Episode 36- Road Trip

2007-02-13T00:31:00.001-05:00

Show notes:

Bernie's on the road, driving back from Long Island. On his way to getting lost in Connecticut, he talks about garage bands, classical recitals, Anna Nicole, and the Zoom H4 recorder. By the way, how long IS Long Island?

Derek K. Miller- Fakeout
Ruby James- Famous Song
Secondhand Serenade- Half Alive
Paul Castle- Hold Out For Summer

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me at bernie (AT) worldofbernie (dot) com
Shownotes are always available at worldofbernie.com

Just a note- I'm back in Cubase, but I didn't adjust the voice gain too well, so if it's unbalanced, sorry!
powered by performancing firefox

Episode 35- Listener Love

2007-02-10T00:16:00.000-05:00

powered by ODEO
Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:

Bernie shows the love for all the listeners and musicians who make Bernie's World possible. Special thanks to musicians Al Stravinsky, Joe Colledge, Anji Bee, Three Blind Mice,and Ivy League. Thanks to listeners and readers APL, .25 Life Crisis Kid, Maple Mama, Contessa, Sierra Sedan, Karmyn Tyler, Karmyn's Mom, and Peet Fointed. Music in the episode includes:

The Fire Apes- If Things Don't Look So Good Today
Jann Klose- Real Easy To Say
Jennifer Jayden- Rescue Me
Matt Jones- Maybe It Was Me
Johnne Tuzza- Game Show (Closing Music)

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me at bernie (AT) worldofbernie (dot) com
Shownotes are always available at worldofbernie.com

Sorry if this podcast sounds different than the more recent shows- They wiped my computer at the office and I am back in Audacity for the time being...

Episode 34- Never Start With An Apology

2007-02-06T23:33:00.001-05:00

powered by ODEO
Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:

Bernie's apologizes to Secondhand Serenade for getting the name wrong in Episode 33. He also discusses the scars he bears from Jury Duty, contemplates changes in the World of Bernie, and fights the cold weather. He went to a Superbowl Party (but can't remember who played), but knows every song Prince played at halftime.... Music in the episode includes:

Secondhand Serenade- Maybe
Matt Jones- Hang Around
Geoff Smith- Here Nowhere
Creature Republic- In Between

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me at bernie (AT) worldofbernie (dot) com
Shownotes are always available at worldofbernie.com

Holy Crap!

2007-02-02T22:54:00.002-05:00

Thanks to This Quarter Life Crisis for this tunes, and a great post about it!

OK- 2 things tonight. First, have you heard the performance above? Now I loved the Broadway Cast recording of Dreamgirls, and hoped the movie version would be as good. If the rest of the disk smokes like this tune, here's my credit card. I'm buying.

Next is this imeem thing. I don't know how it can be legal that I can upload tunes and share them with others, but it's happening. Of course, I can't download it, and that may be why. However, the fact that I can click this link, get this tune streaming, and keep writing is awesome. I may be embedding a few more imeem tunes here.

That's it. You should be sleeping or partying anyway. Or are you holding out for the Super Bowl?

By the way, buy the original at

powered by performancing firefox

Episode 33- 4 Trains a Day

2007-02-01T23:12:00.001-05:00

Best You Ever Had by Joe Colledge
Jury Duty
Gems and Jewelry by Causeway
Commuting Hell
I Hate This Song by Secondhand Serenade (Sorry I got the name wrong- I'll fix it next show too!)
I stayed up all night!
Afraid and Alone by Kevin Reeves
Is court like "Law and Order"?

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me at bernie (AT) worldofbernie.com
Shownotes are always available at worldofbernie.com

Resolutions for 2007

2007-01-31T21:33:00.000-05:00

NOTE- I wrote these a month ago, but never posted them. As I'm sleeping tonight (after being up for 40 hours) this post may help you catch up. At least it will give me a chance to sleep.

I split up my resolutions this year. I had posted these elsewhere, and personal resolutions were to be here at Bernies World, and I posted my fatherhood resolutions at Digital Father. However, it's just one too many places, so I brought these back here, and the other site will just... blogfade.

Digital Resolutions for 2007

Pictures with every post.
- Here in the World of Bernie, that doesn't work with the daily links posts. (I may be stopping those anyway.) However, it will work with whatever actual content I post here, and at my other blogs. I've been following what some successful bloggers have said about adding a photo to each post. It means I have to beef up my flickr page, but for the time being I'm getting by with stock photos and attributed flickr photo's.
Weekly Podcasts on consistent days for Digital Father and Bernies World.
- I have tried to keep a fairly regular schedule for Bernies World, but Digital Father has been far less regular. By selecting a consistent release day, perhaps I can better manage my schedule and attend to my other resolution lists.
More people in the podcasts.
- One voice day in and day out is tough to listen to, no matter whose voice it is. A little variety would be better. Tis means more voice comments, interviews, and maybe even captures of news items with responses.
Better 'scripting' for Digital Father.
- There are a lot of issues out there, and I may have been too cavalier in responding. I will not script, because that's not me. However, more research prior to recording should make for a better podcast.
Let Podcast for Educators pod-fade.
- Seeing your progeny fail is difficult. Knowing you've failed them is worse. I know there is a market for this podcast, and I know I am not the man for this market. I may add more items, but they will be on an as-needed basis, and only in answer to training I am doing with actual classroom teachers. Those who need the content aren't looking for it yet, and those who've found it have quickly jumped beyond my offerings. There are many greats out there offering similar resources. The best thing I can do is direct others to them.
Promote my podcasts more effectively.
- I've been adding them, slowly but surely, to podcast directories. I need to renew these efforts, and spend a little more time participating in other more popular shows, so I might pick up a listener or two.
Consolidate some of my digital efforts.
- I use Blogger for 2 blogs, Wordpress for 2 others, and I maintain a separate website for other items of a more personal nature. I wonder if I should just abandon the website except as a place to keep content and set up another Wordpress blog. Maybe I should move my entire stable to Wordpress. Perhaps I should set up my own server (hosted, of course) and host my blogs there. I don't know, but I have too many balls in the air, and this is not a full-time job.

This is a fairly extensive list, but since one of them requires me not to do something, it appears manageable. I hope.

Blew it already!

2007-01-31T05:28:00.000-05:00

I have no podcast for you this morning. Here are a few reasons-

Getting picked for Jury Duty means I cannot have most of my gear with me for 14 hours of the day.
Last night was "Kids Night on Broadway", and we took the kids to shows.
I came back and had a grant to finish, which I just finished at 5am, so I have not slept.

I'll be taking my recorder to breakfast, but you most likely will not get the podcast until Thursday. Sorry.

Jury Duty

2007-01-29T20:37:00.001-05:00

Ugh.

I got picked. I was brutally honest, but still got picked. I can't get into details of what I'm adjudicating, but I can tell you this: people are dumb. Here's how I come to my conclusion, without breaking any oath.

We're sitting in the jury assembly room (prior to being farmed out to judges) and they have to check everyone in. There are 400 people here, and the Jury Management Guy (whose title eludes me now) gets on the microphone and says, roughly-

We are going to check everyone in. As we are checking people in, please do not stand in the aisles between the seats waiting to cut in line. And, if the line stretches from the desk more than 1/4 of the way back in the room, stay in your seat and wait for the line to get shorter. There is no need for you to stand for that long.

As soon as he announced the beginning of the check-in process, nearly the entire room stood up and got on line. People were standing in the aisles, waiting to cut in line. At one point, he actually said "please don't stand in the aisle trying to cut into the line. It's rude and unfair to the people already in line."

Was he unclear? Nope. Was it really easy to see, no matter where you were in the room, exactly what he wanted. Yup.

I sat in the back, with my 2 new 'we're in this together, so we might as well hang' buddies, and I said "watch- at the end, he's going to ask if anyone hasn't gone up. We'll go then." And so, my team of 3 sat in our seats, and awaited the inevitable announcement. And when it came, we sauntered to the front of the room, unimpeded by the madding crowd, straight to the podium to HAND THE GUY 2 PIECES OF PAPER and say "Yes, I'm ready to serve."

Which, by the way, I'm not. I have 2 grants in the works, tickets to a broadway show tomorrow, and I feel crappy. The whole trip home I was sick.

Oh, and the final indignity came Friday in the mail. You see, to get to the courthouse, I have to take 2 trains and walk 9 blocks. I leave my house at 6:15 and arrive at the courthouse at 8:30. I received, via USPS, an invitation to serve Jury Duty in the local courthouse, 10 minutes from home and free parking. My commute here costs nearly $20 each day. I get paid $40 plus travel, but for pure hassle, home turf would have been better.

At least it's not Grand Jury. BTW, I should be there all week.

Ugh.

Problem Solving Flowchart

2007-01-28T22:38:00.000-05:00

I came upon a new blog to read (because the 106 I read now are not enough) called Uneasy Silence, and while there I came upon this marvelous flowchart.

Ah, the memories this stirs. The number of times I have implemented this chart, not knowing it was an accepted response structure. The days I've witnessed this process, having come upon it already in progress. Apparently a gentleman named Jeff is to thank. I don't know if it's a thanks for the process itself, or simply the sketch.

For whichever- Thanks, Jeff.

powered by performancing firefox

Episode 32- Where is the snow?

2007-01-27T00:46:00.001-05:00

I live vicariously with a photo from Adventure Dad

powered by ODEO

Direct link to mp3 file

Show notes:

Today we're talking about testing in school, our commitment to 2 podcasts a week (check back on Saturday and Wednesday mornings), continuing dental issues, a rant about the LACK OF SNOW, testing the limits of the Toyota Prius, and what are Pete and Rachel doing in the trailer?

Al Stravinsky- Fridge Says
Ivy League- Sleep with the Angels (Check out the Uke)
Plastic Chair with Anji Bee- Dispersion (Is that japanese, Anji?)
Rachel Fuller featuring Pete Townsend- WOW! Heard her in "Shall We Dance"

Oh, and go check out The Aftermath of Rainbows and Unicorns (sorry I called it by the wrong name on the show, Sam!). It's an awesome blog!

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me at bernie (AT) worldofbernie (dot) com
Shownotes are always available at worldofbernie.com

Warning- Boast Post

2007-01-26T08:38:00.000-05:00

These are the download numbers for the "Bernies World" podcast. Some of this is the result of the fact that it auto-loads on MySpace (Don't bother checking it- I never do much with it).

I'm not big into bragging, but I love where these numbers are going. As a side note, I had decided to let Podcast for Educators podfade. Yet it's having the best month ever, and I haven't added a podcast in more than 2 months.

Go figure.

Episode 31- Only 21 more this year!

2007-01-20T15:58:00.001-05:00

Direct Link to mp3 file

Show Notes:

I Will Carry You by Air 5 (A little Christian Rock for a change)
Tooth extracted, and all is not well!
Dry Socket discussion after last song plays out, after outtakes.
Motel Room by Christopher Dallman
Recording in the kitchen, because everyone is out! (YAY)
Fought 2 hours with my H4 interface and Castblaster.
Take Your Hands Off the Bear by Tom Smith
No Castblaster means post production. I don't have time!
Up last night perusing PMN to get ahead
In The Next Life by Al Stravinsky
Bought a fireplace mantle and new kitchen stools (Maybe I'll get the old ones in the studio)
Don't forget- an explanation of Dry Socket at the end. (Yuck!)

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me at berniesworldpodcast (AT) gmail.com
Shownotes are always available at worldofbernie.com

powered by performancing firefox

When is my anniversary?

2007-01-19T15:25:00.001-05:00

Yes, sweetie. I know when my wedding anniversary is (June 9th) but I have a little trouble with the other ones. Here's why:

My first post was on August 10th, 2005. I posted a picture from Hilton Head SC when I installed Picasa on my home computer. I hit the "blog this" button, and suddenly I was on Blogger. I posted again a week later, but got involved in the Master Schedule at work, and that was the end of my blogging.
A collegue of mine convinced me to go on MySpace and look up my children, and my students. I did, and wrote of the horrors of it all on January 7, 2006. Around that time I started to get a bad feeling at the office, and not much else could persuade me to write.
On March 12th, 2006, I came back to my blog for real. That was when I knew I was leaving, and was feeling cathartic enough to need an outlet. Luckily I had found a forum for my discourse or I may have gone insane.
On April 11, 2006 I posted the first episode of the Bernies World Podcast. It was extremely rough, but it's gotten better in the meantime.

So here's the issue. When is the anniversary of my blog? If it's August or January, I've missed it. However, if I count those months, I would have posted 3 times in 7 months. Therefore, I think we will call the anniversary of my blog March 12th, 2007. It's a Monday, so we may celebrate it on Sunday the 11th.

The podcast anniversary will be April 11th, 2007. I have a tall order by then. Since I set a goal of 52 podcasts this year, I need to complete another 22 episodes in 12 weeks. That's 2 episodes nearly every week from now until April. I don't know if I can do it. More so, I'm not sure that you folks can take it. If I podcast twice weekly, will you folks become so enraged that you show up on my doorstep demanding peace? Or will you just unsubscribe? 11 hours of mindless drivel (interspersed with awesome podsafe music, of course) could warp even the most stable of folks. I may need to reconsider that goal, but I hate to step back from that one.

I think I can do it. Voice comments help fill the time (hint hint!). I checked it out, and (206) 350-FUN1 is still working... Have you called it today? Have you called it ever?

Bernie - 1 tooth = ouch!

2007-01-15T20:04:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, one of my crowns was loose. I went to my dentist of 27 years to have it repaired, and he discovered that there was little left below it. As a result, I had one of my teeth out today.

I've had them out before (3 years ago, and 6 years previous) and had fairly decent experiences each time. That is, considering it involves significant pain and discomfort afterward.

My oral surgeon (same guy all 3 times) is a nice old guy with a big bushy mustache. I talked hockey with one of his nurses while I waited for him to arrive, and continued as the first 4 or 5 Novocaine shots took effect. He poked around a bit, found me still un-anesthetized, and gave me more Novocaine. We continued the conversation as the next 3 shots set in, and then it was off to work.

It didn't all come out in one piece, so there was a bit of tugging and pulling. I would imagine that adds to the discomfort in the long run. The aftercare for the procedure is fairly simple. I need gauze pads changed every 30 minutes, 2 hours without eating, and there is some possible pain and swelling.

That's where my new best friend comes in. Say hello to Mr. Vicodin. I've taken my first one, and I expect to be less than able to blog soon enough. As such, I wanted to get this in now. If you've never had Vicodin, you can appreciate it's power by knowing that physicians require a special prescription pad to give it, and the D.E.A. assigns a number to all doctors to make sure they can track it.

I'm looking forward to the end of this pain, but while I have to endure it, I'm looking forward to getting a little loose. If I'm particularly motivated (and still able to see) I'll be back to regale you. Otherwise, I'll be sitting in my family room, listening to "The Grateful Dead" and digging the freaky colors.

Milestone

2007-01-13T22:14:00.001-05:00

Not many stats, just one.

New Domain Name- worldofbernie.com

2007-01-12T15:20:00.001-05:00

I got on godaddy last night and bit the bullet. $6.95 for a domain name for my other active blog and podcast, Digital Father. Now you can find me at digitalfather.com. Of course, if you've bookmarked me at Wordpress, terrific! I'm not going anywhere soon, but if I do, this domain will follow me.

I'm also pointing worldofbernie.com back here to Bernies World. I looked at using a blog software for accumulated information, but I'm going to use my personal domain to connect all of the sites together, including my choir. When that's ready, I'll point you there. In the meantime, thanks for bookmarking!

Episode 30- Hey!

2007-01-12T00:38:00.000-05:00

Direct Link to mp3 file

powered by ODEO

Show Notes:

Hey Kate! by The Fire Apes
More than halfway to our goal of 52 episodes for the year.
Why am I recording in the car? Busy Busy!
Shannon and I help a friend write a musical
Special in this episode- chipmunk voices, my daughter sings, outtakes (hang around through the end!)
Hey! by Eileen Meyer
Bernie needs a dentist
Back in Black by Robot Goes Here
Vonage is pissing me off!
Skippy needs to hear "the talk"!
Hold On by Ivy League

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me
Check out other blogs and podcasts at World of Bernie

Video Games Go Live!

2007-01-09T23:05:00.000-05:00

I love a good game of Space Invaders. I was never such a Pac-Man fan, but I'm OK with it when I'm feeling nostalgic.

Funny Cartoons

2007-01-08T16:51:00.000-05:00

I really like the cartoons I found yesterday at weblogcartoons.com.

Dave has a cool group of sites, including church-related cartoons. I plan to send the local preacher there for a few to spice up the weekly bulletin, but that will never happen. Roman Catholics appear to have a lock on boredom. Many of the cartoons are linkable for your blog, and he even has a couple of free calendars to download.

I grabbed this puppy because, well, this is my new best friend of 6 months. I should at least acknowledge him publicly, right?

Cartoon by Dave Walker. Find more cartoons you can freely re-use on your blog at We Blog Cartoons.

Commercials You Loved (or Hated) Growing Up

2007-01-06T22:56:00.000-05:00

If you thought you remembered all of the funniest commercials you've ever seen, you're wrong.

Giant Mag, however, has them all cataloged for you here. Worth a laugh whenever you get around to watching them.

Personal Resolutions for 2007

2007-01-02T17:35:00.000-05:00

I'm splitting up my resolutions this year. I'm tackling personal resolutions here. Fatherhood resolutions will show up at Digital Father, and I'll post digital resolutions at World of Bernie.
What do I want to do differently for 2007?

Spend some more quality time with my wife, and less quality time with my computer.

Sorry gang, but I spend a little too much non-productive time on the net, and it needs to be better regulated. My wife is a lovely woman, but she can only stand so much.

Eat in a more healthful way.

Too many crappy breakfast sandwiches have had a negative impact on my waistline. I haven't been feeling as healthy as I did just 6 months ago. It's also impacting my wallet, which I will cover in a later post on Digital Father regarding paying for college. (Only 4 years to save up!)

Do my exercises each day.

Now that I have my iPod Shuffle, I have downloaded my exercise regimen. I can now work out with less of a hassle. No DVD's, completely portable.

Walk throughout the winter.

It's good quality time with the Wife, and I sure need the exercise.

Schedule at least one date with friends each month.

I never make phone calls. Never. I complain about not having many friends, but I'm the worst at maintaining the relationships. The net is the best thing to happen to me because I now relate better with the folks who are miles away than I do with my friends one town over, or even ACROSS THE STREET.

The Months of 2006

2007-01-02T16:41:00.000-05:00

I understand that it is already 2007, but I thought I would summarize what Bernies World looked like for 2006. This is as much for my own information as it is for your perusal. I'm responding to each, which is not in keeping with the meme, but it's my blog, so if you don't like it, bugger off. (I'm listening to Top Of The Pods, and I'm hearing Brit now.)

MySpace is a relatively new find for me.

This was my big start. I checked out MySpace in my prior work life, and was concerned at what I found. I haven't changed my opinions, but I've decided to come at it in a new way- through parents.

Apparently February was short on inspiration.

Well, it's official.

This is my March entry. I didn't take to blogging until this entry, when I was officially given the gate by my school district.

I expanded my search today.

Things were not so good in April, and I needed to expand geographically for fear of not finding a position.

For those of you who are friends, this is a public apology.

I signed on with Podomatic for about 5 minutes, and their email notification feature spammed everyone in my address book.

How long have I been looking for work?

In June the interviewing schedule picked up. I was lamenting 4 interviews in a week.

I got a 3rd hand meme from Maple Mama on sleep, and couldn't help myself.

My first meme.

I don't watch the show.

Bill Maher. No HBO.

Click the picture to hear what Al is listening to on HIS ipod.

It was the Al. you know- Al Einstein.

I had plans to do a couple of podcasts over the long weekend, but plans change.

Early in the renovation of the Bernies World Studio (still undone, BTW).

At a recent gathering of my listeners and readers, a whopping 50% stated that they were confused by the irregular changes in media types.

I've a few more listeners now, but I still like to switch it up. I guess it's in keeping with the 'do what makes you happy and let your audience find you' mindset. I just wish they would hurry.

Direct Link to mp3 file

When you start the month with a podcast, this is what you get.

Episode 29- Zoom!

2007-01-01T18:37:00.001-05:00

Show Notes:

Inside of Me by Ivy League (formerly de la Vega)
My new Zoom and Shuffle
Holiday Doings
Writings On A Page by Jonathon Dewveall
A Giant Risk
Deli Girl by Man Bites God
New Years Doings
Ruckus at First Annual Blogger Christmahanukwanzaakah Concert
Copernicus by Al Stravinsky
A peaceful and Happy New Year
Next Episode- New Years Resolutions

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me
Check out other blogs and podcasts at World of Bernie

The Beauty of Online Video

2006-12-31T01:00:00.001-05:00

I've never been a huge fan of video over the internet. However, there are no other ways to see these beautiful women other than via the net. So I endure difficulty downloading files, laggy video, and a wide variety of required media software just to get my fix of shows like GeekBrief TV and Wallstrip. If you are a geek like me, and you like to see folks play havoc with the stereotypes saying women can't know technology, come read this article on Digital Inspiration.

Your newest, truly annoying pet

2006-12-27T20:41:00.000-05:00

Clocky, the alarm clock that runs and hides from you. You can purchase this clock from nanda, if you are so inclined.

Like I haven't lost enough crap in my bedroom- I now need to hunt down my alarm clock. Of course, it will continue to ring.

I don't have to chase my food. Why should I want to chase my alarm clock? Then again, I keep my alarm clock across the room from the bed, so how different would this really be?

Holiday Wishes

2006-12-23T22:45:00.001-05:00

the cat that ate xmas
Originally uploaded by macwagen.

As my church job will keep me from my computer all day on Christmas Eve, the nuclear family and in-laws will keep me from it on the 25th, and my family will be in force on the 26th, I will most likely miss you folks.

My wish to you all is the happiest of seasons, no matter what your faith. Peace to all of my new friends here in the podosphere, the blogosphere, and the world in general.

The End of Confidentiality

2006-12-23T22:11:00.001-05:00

Michael Arrington of Techcrunch has blogged on an issue that, while it may seem far removed from you, could become an issue for all.

Brobeck, Pleger Harrison LLP was a Silicon Valley Law Firm that has since gone belly up. Not unusual, but the problem is the bankruptcy court has ruled that the digital documents held by the firm have historical value, and thus should be turned over to the Library of Congress for display.

I'm no lawyer, but isn't this a violation of attorney/client privilege? Doesn't this subject clients to potential privacy issues, legal complications, and industrial and intellectual property exposure? When my lawyer dies, can the emails about my divorce potentially become part of a display on the Library of Congress website?

This has extremely broad implications, for businesses and individuals. I will certainly pay attention to this. Thanks, Michael, for catching me up on this.

powered by performancing firefox

The Future of Headphones

2006-12-23T00:50:00.000-05:00

I have been waiting for this for a long time. Bluetooth headphones.

No more cords hanging out of my coat. Nothing to tangle in the seatbelt. Nothing pulling at my ears when I sit down. No infrared sensor to be oriented toward.

How did we get everything wireless before this? This seemed like a no-brainer. Still out of my price range, but I can wait.

courtesy of crunchgear

Technorati Tags: gadgets, wishlist

powered by performancing firefox

One Charger for ALL My Phones?

2006-12-22T12:05:00.001-05:00

I guess being overpopulated means you have to be smart about what you do with your trash. China has figured out that if they force manufacturers to shift over to one type of input for chargers, they can cut back on waste.

Sure, if we put all the landfills in the country side by side in the desert, they would amount to very little real estate. However, to be responsible, we should do all that we can to eliminate waste in areas where it's feasible. I'm good with this. It might eliminate a little desktop clutter, too.

As a side note, I was replacing my Nextel Motorola cell phone recently, and they tried to convince me to upgrade to a Sprint/Nextel hybrid. I tried it, but it turns out my local cell network doesn't support it. It was all for the best, though, because the model I finally ended up with uses the same batteries, so I now have 3 batteries for my phone, and the landfill won't claim another carcinogenic item until it's fully depleted.

via crunchgear

Episode 28- We Wish You a Merry Pod-mas

2006-12-20T00:00:00.000-05:00

Show Notes

Some Christmas Huggin' and Kissin' by Geoff Smith
Many Thanks for the feedback and love. Keep it coming!
The Bear Lies Down by Three Blind Mice, or visit catsaway.com
Technology and the Holidays
Being an adult at the holidays
Grown Up Christmas List by Ayla Brown
Tragic news at the dentist
Big Concert this weekend
5 masses on Christmas Eve
O Holy Night from "Studio 60 on The Sunset Strip" by W.G. Snuffy Walden
I'm off the holiday week, so I may play catchup on podcasts
Peace to all, Happy Holidays, Merry Christmahanukwanzaakah!
First Annual Blogger Christmahanukwanzaakah Concert

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me
Check out other blogs and podcasts at World of Bernie

'Girls Gone Wild' gets a slap on the wrist

2006-12-14T09:08:00.000-05:00

I'll not bore you with all the details, but I've written a brief follow up to my original post about this jerk over at one of my other blogs, "Digital Father."

Yuck.

Episode 27- Charlie Brown? I Feel You, Brother!

2006-12-07T23:36:00.000-05:00

Click the arrow to play the show right now!

Show Notes:

Break These Chains- Al Stravinsky Love the One
I got to do studio work
Take Off Your T Shirt if you Can't Name A Song by the Band That's On It- WWIII
I Feel You, Charlie Brown, because the Holidays are not what they used to be
Walk A Thousand Miles- Matthew Ebel
When did I get Old?
Do You Hear What I Hear- Jill Parr
Bernie Big Vacation Plans

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me
Check out other blogs and podcasts at World of Bernie

Episode 26- Only 24 Shopping Days Left!

2006-12-01T01:18:00.000-05:00

Click the arrow to play the show right now!

Show Notes:

Title and Registration- Death Cab for Cutie
Thanksgiving events

Giving Thanks Cookbook

Promo/I Am The Owner of This Coat- Maria Danes
Stars are nutty
Klippies- Navi Redd
Black Friday

Bought a new projector!
People to People

My Own Merry Christmas- Geoff C. Smith
New Gear?

Perhaps the H-4 Zoom

Find all the artists and buy their music at the Podsafe Music Network
To send a comment, email Bernie AT worldofbernie.com
Call the voice comment line at 206-350-fun 1
Check out other podcasts and blogs at worldofbernie.com
Exit Bumper Luck Struck courtesy of royaltyfreemusic.com

Episode 25- Too Many Dead Turkeys!

2006-11-23T00:53:00.000-05:00

Direct Link to mp3 file

Show Notes:

Summertime by Brother Love
Turkey Day preparation

Butterball podcast

Windows Media and my Seagate
Van catastrophe
Famous by The Lacivious Biddies
OJ gets paid for nothing!
Parent Teacher Conferences
Watchstar by 3 Blind Mice
Website updates- audio files posted
Digital Father Blog moved to Wordpress
Happy Thanksgiving to all! I love my listeners, and want to keep you entertained!

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line at (206) 350-FUN 1
email me
Check out other blogs and podcasts at World of Bernie

Recent Milestones, and a bit of misdirection...

2006-11-21T08:44:00.000-05:00

The World of Bernie will pass 2,500 page loads today over 3 sites. That's since I started counting.
The World of Bernie podcasts reached 300 downloads in a month today.
Total podcast downloads are 706, meaning 42% of all the downloads occurred this month.
"Cheesy Songs" is still the most popular keyword search to bring folks here. I don't understand, because I don't make the first page on Google or Yahoo!
"I changed his diaper in the ladies room" is the number 1 search that brings people to Digital Father, followed closely by "embarrassing diaper stories" and "diaper change stories." I imagine this is because of my diaper story.
Podcast for Educators is getting hits, as I expected, from searches on "podcast for educators."
Important to folks who do podcasts is the fact that I also get hits on "do I need an ipod to get podcasts?" (I'm on the bottom of the page- the Flashing 12 series from Podcast 411 did it first, and better.)
Podcast for Educators is my most popular blog internationally, garnering 24% of it's most recent readership from abroad.
All of this work and analysis was done to direct you away from the fact that I did not do a podcast last night. I was at parent-teacher conferences, and nothing was happening after that. I'll update you on that and other things in episode 25, when it's done.

Thanks for visiting. Next time may be a little less self-absorbed, though I doubt it. I mean, it IS a blog, after all.

Bernie Cooks, too!

2006-11-20T16:45:00.000-05:00

A few schedule items, just so you know what's up:

Sunday (yesterday)

Church
Kids v Dads Soccer (3-3 tie)
Pre-cooking for Thanksgiving

Pumpkin Bisque Recipe #1 (curry, cilantro)
Chocolate Ice Cream

Monday (today)

PM Parent- Teacher Conferences
Pre-cooking for Thanksgiving

Pumpkin Bisque Recipe #2 (no curry or cilantro, yes chipotle pepper)

Maybe episode 25...

Tuesday

Interfaith Thanksgiving Service at a local temple

Wednesday

Brine the turkey
clean the bathrooms
vacuum
have kids clean their room
last minute shopping (because you KNOW we forgot something!)

Thursday

ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

Friday

Holiday Shopping (yes, we do our shopping on Black Friday, and do it well!)

Saturday

Back to the basement, maybe?

Episode 24- Where you been, Bernie?

2006-11-16T01:56:00.000-05:00

direct link to mp3 file

Show Notes

I’ll Buy That for a Dollar- Casket Salesmen
Slowed down podcasting and blogs
Better Angels- Blake Morgan
Family trip to “Wicked”
Love Will Rule the World- Joshua Kadison
Issue in UK regarding Mercy killing of severly handicapped children
Got My Soul- Steve Paroe
Next Time

catastrophic failure of a Honda
Windows Media Player helps me delete my podcast files accidentally

All music courtesy of the Podsafe Music Network
email me
Call the new voice comment line at 206-350-fun 1
Check out other podcasts and blogs at World of Bernie

Episode 23- Chug Chug Chug

2006-11-10T21:14:00.000-05:00

direct link to the audio file

Show Notes:

Girlfriends Ghost- Sofia Ramos
No laptop, and the audio shows it!
Our van died!
Every Color- Matthew Ebel
Office changes
Easier to Dream- Kelly Meuller
Middle School problems for Junior
New- Steve Paroe
Election Day- can the Dems get it done?

music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line (206) 666-3998/ (206) Money 98
email bernie@worldofbernie.com
Check out worldofbernie.com for links to all the blogs

I owe you...

2006-11-10T08:42:00.000-05:00

I meant to do an episode. I really did. But I wanted to get a tune ready for the Daily Source Code. I also wanted to do a voicemail bumper for Dawn and Drew. Finally, I've been listening to Barely Podcasting, and thought an intro might be welcome.

So I was at the mic, but I hadn't planned a show for you folks. You can listen to those podcasts and hope you get to hear me there, or you can wait until I get the next show together. I've picked the tunes, I have some stuff I want to talk about, and maybe even a surprise or two.

So yes, I owe you. If you came back and found it's been more than a week, I'm sorry to have disappointed. Please forgive me, and I promise to give you a good episode for #23.

Was it the tequila talking?

2006-11-06T22:28:00.000-05:00

At a recent gathering of my listeners and readers, a whopping 50% stated that they were confused by the irregular changes in media types. I blog, then I podcast, then I podcast again, then I blog a few times.

I can imagine that would be confusing. I go through similar confusion as I decide how I want to say what I want to say. At times, writing is better than audio. But if 50% of my listeners/ readers are unhappy, that leaves me only one happy listener. (You had to see that coming, didn't you?)

I haven't been writing much lately. There are reasons for that. they are exciting reasons, as I have been broadening the breadth of my professional network. You see, I participated in the k12 Online Conference. This was an extraordinary collection of presentations in a variety of media. Blogs, podcasts, vidcasts, screencasts, Elluminate, Skypecasts, TappedIn chats.

I had to learn all these technologies in order to keep up. That makes for a very steep learning curve, but it is all cool technology. What sucked up so much time recently was the culminating activity, called "When Night Falls."

The planners foresaw a 24 hour meeting of sorts, where at 9pm local time educators would join in a simultaneous Skypecast/TappedIn chat to recall their favorite parts of the conference, offer constructive feedback for the future, and generally share the love. I wanted to participate, so I went to the wiki to volunteer my services. One of te moderators (a Canadian) asked for help with moderating the 10am GMT (that's Greenwich Mean Time, for those no longer in High School) Skypecast. I agreed, perhaps not fully considering the local time. Apparently, it's 5AM EST.

What the hell was I thinking?

So, after agreeing, I set up my schedule to be ready for my Skypecast. After trying 3 other options, I downloaded the required software to make an audio recording of the Skypecast. I set up my TappedIn account. I logged into the wiki to record my notes. At 4:30am, I awoke to my automatically brewed elixir, put on my headphones, clipped on my microphone, and logged in.

Six to eight folks floated in and out of the room during my hour, and we had a great time. We chatted about technology in the classroom. We talked about the high we were on from the conference. There weren't really lows to discuss. One thing was for sure, though. No matter where we were from (including New Zealand, United Kingdom, Canada, and New York) we were all singing the same songs. The problems were the same, the technologies were the same, the students were the same. Proving once again that the world is becoming smaller and flatter.

So having enjoyed myself, at the end of my hour, I logged out of my Skypecast and worked on my notes. At the same time, I logged into the next Skypecast. I was just coming along to help the transition.

I stayed. The entire hour. And another after that. I came back at lunchtime. Finally, I joined in during the last hour, where I found that many of the moderators from other sessions had joined as well. Folks I have come to know via these chats and Skypecasts. Some new to technology education, most with a depth of knowledge and experience I can only hope to match. The only thing that dragged me away was a Moliere play I had promised to attend with the family.

What was great about the entire conference is I feel I know the presenters, I would have little trouble calling these folks for advice, and I was actually able to teach a few folks some things. What a rush that was. Who wouldn't enjoy that? As a matter of fact, when the call went out to continue the Skypecast on a monthly basis, I jumped at it.

I suppose 5am isn't that bad...

Episode 22- Halloweencast

2006-10-31T23:52:00.000-05:00

direct link to the audio file

Show Notes:

Intro by Maple Mama
Died Like Romeo- Art Linton
Very busy few weeks on the education network front.
Getting ready for the early morning Skypecast as part of "K12 online conference"
If Things Don't Look So Good- The Fire Apes
Barak Obama
Don't Sweat It- The Soft Drugs
Me and My Dad
Black Madonna- Sophia Ramos

All music courtesy of The Podsafe Music Network
Call the voice comment line (206) 666-3998/ (206) Money 98
email bernie@worldofbernie.com
Check out worldofbernie.com for links to all the blogs

Bernies World Episode 21- Happy Birthdaycast

2006-10-26T00:43:00.000-04:00

Direct Link to the audio file
Show notes:

Shine- Kevin Reeves
email birthday wishes to mrsbernie@worldofbernie.com
Conference at Mohonk Mountain House
You Don't Smile- Caitlyn Smith
New Orleans Municipal wifi ending
Starbucks chastises manager for riding a bike to work- manager quits
McDonalds due for a face lift
Electric Marshmallow Toaster
Jack Black says "Don't Be A Douche"
Fake- Blow Up Hollywood
Educators need to get behind podcasting and STAY behind it!
Check out Rob Usdin at Jersey Jamcast
Check out Karmyn Tyler's new podcast
Bernie was on the Daily Source Code

Check out the Podsafe Music Network
email bernie AT worldofbernie.com
Call the comment line at (206) 666-3998 or (206) MONEY 98
"Bernies World" is a World of Bernie podcast

Wow! Check out these stats!

2006-10-24T22:51:00.000-04:00

This is quite a month in Bernie's World!

8 podcasts recorded this month.
2 new podcasts (Digital Father and Podcast for Educators)
122 downloads of my 3 podcasts this month alone.
754 page loads of my blogs (including Podcast for Educators and Digital Father) this month.
Readers from:

Singapore
France
Canada
Austria
Germany
Netherlands
United Kingdom
Paraguay
Chile
15 States in the US

7 days left in the month!

I'm so happy you've all joined me here. I'm thrilled you've come for a time, and I hope I find a few ways to entertain you. Make sure to send a message, leave a comment, or call the voice comment line at (206) 666-3998.

* stats courtesy of StatCounter

10 reasons why I love Studio 60

2006-10-23T23:04:00.000-04:00

Amanda Peet is funny, self-deprecating, and cute.
Sorkin and Schlamme are not afraid of difficult and polarizing issues, like tonight's side story on black comics and the one-note song they are singing these days.
You get to root for the underdog, like the poorly received 'too smart for the crowd' black comic.
They managed to squeeze in a great father-son moment, with enough to get a softy like me teary-eyed.
The patter is almost as good as Sorkin's early seasons with "The West Wing" and "SportsNight."
Matthew Perry doesn't appear nearly as goofy as on "Friends", but somewhat normal.
Timothy Busfield, who I hated on "Thirtysomething" and loved on "The West Wing", is working again.
D.L. Hughley, who I expected to hate, is quite good as the black performer trying desperately to help his people, who simultaneously disappointed him.
Steven Weber doesn't get too much screen time.
This show allows me to feel that somewhere, someone is thinking that "Reality TV is just bad for America."

Bernies World Episode 20- The Digital Dad

2006-10-21T23:46:00.000-04:00

Show Notes-

Getting Closer- Pete Scafidi

Pete figured it out- support the podcasters!

So much I've learned these past few days

TechForum NY on Friday

Hall Davidson- Discovery Channel (NOTE- Called you Hall Johnson in the podcast- very sorry!)(NOTE- He's actually a famous spiritual composer, but that's neither here nor there...)
David Jakes- Great Speaker on 10 rules for PD
Beautiful Conference Center, great food!

To Partner and President- Miranda Sound
What I learned today (or yesterday by now)

First Annual Fathers Conference

Keynote by Joe Kelly- Dads and Daughters
Met some local folks

the husband of one of our school board members, who was a presenter.
One of my neighbors was a presenter.
Favorite of the day was Joe Mara- great presentation on feeling guilty about doing things for yourself- 'selfish is not a bad word'.

Better Him Than Me- Lee Alexander
Spike in listeners and readers

Mentioned blog and podcasts at Tech conference- jump in traffic
Mentioned blog and podcast at Daddy conference- jump in traffic
Got a tune on FUBAR Friday on the DSC, and it was FUBAR'd, but Adam liked it.
Now I have to apologize. Did it. 20 takes to get it just right.

Screaming Chickens- Joboj

powered by Castblaster
email bernie AT worldofbernie.com
Check out other podcasts and blogs at WorldofBernie.com

Click here for the .mp3 file
Podcast Feed (copy this link to your iTunes or podcatcher)
Call our comment line

206-MONEY 98
206-666-3998

Tech Forum NY Live Blogging

2006-10-20T10:23:00.000-04:00

cross posted at Podcast for Educators

I'm at the IBM Palisades Conference Center for a conference sponsored by Technology & Learning. It's geared toward educators and technology leaders, and it offers an exciting array of options for learning.

"Thinking Bigger While the World Gets Smaller"
Opening the conference was Hall Davidson. If you have not seen Hall, it is worth the price of admission. He is funny, self-deprecating, and just a little brilliant. He discussed many cool tools that can help the modern educator in preparing lessons, and a number of ways to use the "technology in their pocket." His take on cell phones in the classroom is unusual and exciting at the same time. Since every kid in the class these days has a cell phone with a camera and a net connection, why not have them use them as a tool when it comes out or rings in class? Take this annoyance and make it a tool. "Go out and take a picture of an animal, a plant, and an insect". Poof. A science lesson.

"Communicating and Collaborating Online Using Video"
So far it's not too much new for me, but I forget sometimes that I'm looking at this technology through jaded eyes- I've been video conferencing for years. (Thank you, Nora and Crhristina!) This was my first international video conference, however- these folks brought in a school in the UK and a few schools in NYC. 4 windows simultaneously, by the way- very cool!

Dr. Gersh of Dominican College, a few scant miles from here, is a last minute fill in for one of the presenters who is out. She's getting into Skype Conferencing, which I find fascinating. I will be asking about the possibility of getting these technologies to communicate. It would be great to be able to send a webcam to someone (or maybe they have one) and connect with them on the school's video conferencing gear. We're skyping now with Dr. Norman Shapiro of CultureQuest. He's telling us about their project, where students use the internet for research and come in direct contact with individuals from other cultures to verify their research and learn about the culture directly. They are looking to grow, and you can learn more at CultureQuest Consortium News.

Corbett Beder of BX21 is covering Blogs and Vlogs. BX21 is a program that's not using live video connections, but using prepared content. 150 students participate in this program, and study these emerging technologies. He's pointing out the importance of planning and preproduction, but they use all types of tools, from camera phones to serious camera gear. They cover low to high end software, and they even teach about intellectual property and Creative Commons. Cool!

Lunchtime
Met some nice folks from a small private school in Jersey, as well as a staff member in the State Education Offices in Connecticut. The food was amazing!

Note to self
Do not go to another conference without my camera. This place is gorgeous, and I have no way to share it with you. I know Hall took pictures- maybe he will Flickr them.

Blogs, Wikis, and RSS
Susan Silverman of Kids-learn.org ran our Round-Table Session, in which she told about her work in these areas. The questions around the table were interesting, and it's clear that there is great interest in these areas of growth. In three years, as Hall said this morning, this is where we will all be. If you didn't know, by the way, Wiki Spaces is offering free wikis to educators. 85,000 are left as of today. (To all my tablemates- If you are visiting, Thanks for coming, and for sharing at the table! Comment and say hello. Don't forget to go to the other podcast.)

The Ten Keys to Effective Professional Development
David Jakes is the guy I came to see. If you don't know, he is a prolific blogger, well respected presenter, and all around fun guy. He opened up by sharing a little fun video on Conference Bike
and then leapt into what good staff development ought to look like. His top ten (paraphrased by me, with apologies):

Have a mantra.

Do you have a vision statement? A mission statement? A mantra is better. No b.s. What are the watch words that help you plan your professional development?

Align professional growth with organizational goals.

Why are we doing what we do, if it's not helping us meet our goals? Who has that kind of time?

Know your audience.

How many times have you sat every teacher in a room and give them one session, regardless of their prior experience and current comfort level? David used a picture of leather buckets. Each one ready to receive, but all different in some way.

Pilot, Pilot, Pilot.

How will you know if it works? How do you know if it meets your needs? How will you be certain you have the infrastructure to support an initiative?

Use your people resources effectively.

Do you need outside contractors? Should you do it yourself? Why not have a group of turn-key trainers (from your pilots!) to teach your teachers?

Have a dedicated space and resources for professional development.

David showed us the dedicated space in his district. Have someone available throughout the day to offer staff development. Folks in the building. All day. David has 8 period covered by releasing 4 teachers from supervision and 1 class each day.

Get out and see new things.

One gentleman pointed out that we do not give teachers enough time to get out and see new things. It is so difficult to get someone into the class, they don't leave. Add in the cost restrictions and it becomes nearly impossible. (#8 helps with this)

Support individual professional growth with time and resources.

David spent some time here on Blogger, Bloglines and RSS feeds. These can create opportunities for individuals to learn from the great resources available on the internet. Even students can be participants in this process. Let them learn and choose what is appropriate for their growth. The K-12 Online Conference was featured here. Cool idea here- use this as a source of professional development. Sign up and select a workshop to see/ listen to.

Extend opportunities through learning teams and clubs.

When folks come back after professional development, have them come back and observe and share these ideas. 95% of teachers participate? Wow. I would have guessed half. It's costly but worth it, because it costs time and subs.

Evaluate professional development growth.

Evaluate Participant Reactions, Participant Learning, Organizational Readiness (oof- we don't do this), Participant Use of Learning, Student Learning. This helps us to gauge our performance as developers and the ability of the student to take our work back to the classroom and use it effectively.
Student Learning = Student Performance + Student Achievement. We can evaluate learning by looking at their work and their product.

By the way, David- I was the Project Adventure Guy.

Products
OK, I know I'm talking in broad terms here, and I get no money from them (unless they would like to send a check...), but I love the stuff that SMART Technologies sells. Their new products, the 600i series and the Sympodium are amazing products. I love the 600i because it works without a computer and will allow you to download your work to a flash drive for printing and saving later. The Sympodium removes the SMARTBoard from the equation, and may be utilized in a place where standing in fornt of the board is just ineffective. High ceilings, large rooms, multiple screens.

Technorati Tags: techforumny06

Bernies World Episode 19- Now I'm Cooking...

2006-10-20T00:14:00.000-04:00

Show Notes-

blue- girls stuff
What an awesome week- I've been loving it!

lots of writing done
conference tomorrow and saturday
got some exercise (but not tonight- worked and podcast)
slept late today and early last night

Episode 18 rocked, IMHO!
Mythical Frederick- Tom Smith (podcast premiere!)
"Netcast" will never catch on.
Is there a better word than "subscribe"?
Some Days- Pete Scafidi (podcast premiere!)
USC adopts the T3 scooter? Cool!
Is it just me, or is baseball boring?
OK- maybe hockey os boring too.
Summer of Life- Peapod
The ultimate MySpace turnaround- 13 year-old lures bands in to play for free!

powered by Castblaster
email me
Check out other podcasts and blogs at World of Bernie
Click here for the .mp3 file
Podcast Feed (copy this link to your iTunes or podcatcher)
Call our comment line

206-MONEY 98
206-666-3998

Bernies World Episode 18- Small World

2006-10-16T02:35:00.000-04:00

Show Notes-

Stomp the Bleachers- Wylde Bunch
Personal-

Workin’ Hard in the Basement- Pictures on the site
Watched “Last Samurai”- heard it sucked- I disagree.
Wife cooked an AWESOME DINNER tonight

Eponymous 4- Speechless
Small World

Cruising around, looking for music
Ended up at meadownoise.com
Ended up finding Rix Glassmeyer!

What A Fool Believes (Michael McDonald)- MG Marching Band
Opinion

Dad who paid a kid to hurt disabled kid on team gets 6-36 months!

Daphne Ruben-Vega(of the original "Rent")- Citizens of The World

direct link to mp3 file
email me at Bernie@worldofbernie.com
all info at worldofbernie.com
Podcast at berniesworldcast.podshow.com
Many of the songs come from podsafe music network
Podcast produced with Castblaster
Podcast Feed (copy this link to your iTunes or podcatcher)
Call our NEW comment line at:
(206) MOODY 98
(206) 666-3998

Studio Pictures

2006-10-16T02:30:00.000-04:00

Yes, that's a unicycle. I haven't ridden it in years, and right now it holds a trash bag that I fill every couple of days.
This is the aluminum stud work I've been doing. Yes, carpenters, I have laid it flat. It's for a facia assembly, and I want it leaner than it would be on it's side.
This is a glimpse of the real rock wall that I have to waterproof before I close up the wall.
One of the many corners in the room that is piled with junk, awaiting completion of the renovations.

A Promise is a Promise.

2006-10-14T00:16:00.000-04:00

No, it's not a margarine commercial. I said I would upload the other versions of the Bernies World Theme. I've finally done it.

Head over to World Of Bernie and check out the Audio Page. While you're there, click over to my other blogs and fledgling podcast.

Bernies World Episode 17- The Lost Episode

2006-10-12T19:42:00.000-04:00

Show Notes:

Throw me a Line- Kevin Reeves
Podcast news

Studio work

Near amputation!
Remodeling

Lost an entire episode of recordings

I Wonder- Barry McCabe
Personal-

Went away on vacation

Salem, MA
Plimouth, MA

Met the Food Historian

Autographs x2

Recreation of an Authentic Dinner
Stopped on Mayflower II

Daddy conference in 2 weeks

Podcast?

Exercise? Nope.

Uncle- The Alice Project
Gadgetry

Bought a new voice recorder to replace lost recorder. Found new recorder immediately after box was opened.
Trying out new Mypodder for my Sansa e200 series

Doesn’t look like a drive, however.

Zoom H4

I want one!

World News

Plane crash in Manhattan

Sorry for loss of Yankee Pitcher Cory Lidle
Cirrus SR-20 plane had a ballistic parachute so it could land safely
Must have been scary for those close by, considering…
Hockey Season

Rangers start well

2 and 1
Led in pre-season
Healthy?

Byron’s Got The Time- Family Groove Company

Sir Thomas Morley- Shoot, False Love (The Story of a Man's Shortcomings)

Shoot, false love, I care not.
Spend thy shafts and spare not.
I fear not I thy might, and less I weigh thy spite.
All naked I unarm thee, if thou can’st not shoot and harm me
So lightly I esteem thee, as now a child I deem thee.
But now, I do perceive thy art is to deceive.
And every simple lover all thy falsehood can discover.
Then weep love and be sorry, for thou hast lost thy glory.

direct link to mp3 file
email me
Subscribe to the podcast feed
Listen to the podcast via Podshow
Call our NEW comment line at:
(206) MOODY 98
(206) 666-3998

updated 10/12/06 10:15pmEST- "Episide" just ain't right!

I scrod my Episode 17 files!

2006-10-06T22:23:00.000-04:00

I spent the better part of the day getting together Episode 17 of Bernies World. Then I sat down to finish it.

When I imported my files into Audacity, some of them ended up overwriting others. The entire assembly fell apart, and I ended up with, annoyingly enough, my 'episode 17' voiceover in the final edit like, uh, 17 times. I don't know why, but if I put it out in the form it was in, both my listeners would unsubscribe.

So since the two of you deserve better than that, I will have to postpone the distribution of Episode 17 again. I'm off to Salem, MA, so it will have to wait. The job is a washout, so I'll need to start again. Oof.

However, with a trip ahead, maybe there will be time for a few notes from the road. Maybe get the kids involved.

(Special note to Peet Fointed- this is NOT the fault of the Sony ICD SX-46, nor is it the fault of Audacity. It was a combination of rushing, trying to make Audacity handle about 40 .wav files at once, and poor file management on my part. Don't bolt on the technology- this was all Pilot Error.)

Friday is Trash Day

2006-10-06T08:58:00.000-04:00

So many things to say, and few worth an entire blog entry.

Episode 17- "The Assembly Editcast" is on my voice recorder and awaiting editing and posting. I'll do the music intro's on the way home, and put it together tonight. It's a new way of doing the podcast, but you'll have to listen for the details.
I finished the first episode of "Podcast for Educators" on- coincidentally- The Assembly Edit. It's not a great first episode (I planned to start with 'What is a podcast?') but it gets me started, and now I have to follow-up.
I put links to all my blogs at worldofbernie.com. Why? It seemed like the thing to do. Now I'm all connected, so I will be all in one place.
Eventually, I may move all of the blogs to one profile.
Going away this weekend. Salem and Plymouth, MA.
Tried cutting concrete backerboard last night with a utility knife. Melted the blades.
Reconsidering number 4. That may be a little hasty.
My wife drives my car and ruins my mileage. I spend the rest of the week fighting to get it back into the high 40's.
I keep trying to find the Zoom H4 Handy recorder, but it's not in stock anywhere.
I never got around to posting my Tablet PC and Palm T3 on ebay.
eBay sucks for electronics. I still have an open dispute with a company that shipped me crap.
I have to write a grant at work that will involve 5 writers, 40 hours, and many pages of work. We won't get it. I kow that.
I should be writing it now.