Workshops

Updated 3-13-11 (Subject to Change)

Design, Photoshop and Graphic Imagery Series

Straight from MacWorld! The Skinny on Great Design - BEG

Graphic design isn’t rocket science, but it sure can feel like it. In this session you’ll learn the four secrets to great graphic design to ensure your layouts always look their very best, no matter which program you use to create your masterpieces. Each design secret will be revealed, defined and then put into practice using a business card, flyer, and an ad. Even if you’re a seasoned graphic designer, the principles covered in this session will be an extremely useful refresher. (No computer necessary for this workshop)

Straight from MacWorld Expo! Image Editing Bootcamp with Photoshop Elements - BEG/INT

So you’ve got your photos into your computer, now what? In this class you’ll learn how to apply practical editing and enhancement techniques like a pro using the affordable and friendly Adobe Photoshop Elements. You’ll learn how to move throughout the program and switch between three editing modes to suit your specific skill level. Discover how to easily perform basic edits like cropping, color correction, red-eye and blemish zapping, and sharpening. Glean the secrets to creating gorgeous black and whites, partial color effects, creative edges, simple collages, and more! Last but not least, you’ll learn the trick to printing perfectly-sized borderless images. (No computer necessary for this workshop)

Straight from Photoshop World! Photoshop CS4/CS5 Power- BEG/INT

Explore the various ways of fixing truly terrible color including how to use adjustment layers to fix photos safely. You’ll also learn how to easily lighten and darken any portion of your photo, master the art of zapping backgrounds using Photoshop CS5′s new Refine Edge enhancements, discover safer healing techniques for portraits, and harness the power of Smart Objects for adding fun embellishments to your photos and for running filters non-destructively. You’ll also pick up techniques for turning ordinary snapshots into beautiful pieces of art! (No computer necessary for this workshop)

The PC Proficiency Series

PC’s 101, Understanding the Basics – BEG

A review all basic functions and components of a P.C. Starting from pushing the power button and ending with a demonstration of a computer and its components. Including what happens and what do you see during and once booted up. How to customize the look of your desktop and a review of the Control Panel functions. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop – this will be set in a computer lab.)

Becoming Proficient on My PC! - BEG/INT

Learn the basics of setting up and getting around on your computer, fast and easy. Including copy and paste concepts across applications with keystrokes as well as mouse clicks, shortcuts, data/file management. Customize your desktop to suit your needs. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop – this will be set in a computer lab.)

PC Maintenance and Troubleshooting a/k/a Be your own Techie! – INT

Basic tasks to ensure your PC is safe and to prevent problems. Oil and lube for your PC! A review of the tasks need to clean up and keep your machine running at it’s best. How to safely uninstall unused programs and toolbars. As well as troubleshoot basic problems with PC and peripherals, including tips for when you must call 1-800 for technical assistance. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop – this will be set in a computer lab.)

PC Protecting your Data, Computer and Identity in 2011 – INT

Backups: what, where, when and how. Class will review concepts and options for backing up your data. Anti-Virus: The good the bad and the free: choosing and implementing anti –virus and anti –malware. Passwords = how to keep a secret, methods for devising safe easy to remember passwords. Browser safety and safe browsing. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop – this will be set in a computer lab.)

The Apple Proficiency Series

Intro to iPad with Best Buy – BEG

The Ipad is one of the newest tablets out on the market today and one of the most popular devices of 2010. This class will show off the product itself and show off some of the applications and uses that this device can do. Things like word processing, basic image editing and more will be shown during this class and accessories for the product will also be shown. (You do not need to bring an iPad, but if you have one, bring it along)

Mac Basics and Beyond – Intro and Getting Started with Applications – BEG/INT

So you bought a Mac and want to know how to use it, or you have always wondered how a Mac works and what is the difference between PC and Mac. This workshop is perfect for you. It will cover the basics of a Mac, the difference between PC and Mac, some basic information to get started and provide you with a basic understanding of using a Mac. You will learn how to use: finder, system preferences, keyboard shortcuts, etc. We will also review the applications consistent with Mac’s iWork and focusing on Keynote, Pages, Numbers, iTunes and more. You will learn how to use: the iLife/iWork suite of apps. (Laptop not required, but you are welcome to bring your Mac laptop.)

There’s an App for That! iPhone and iPod Touch Apps for Personal and Business – BEG/INT

Learn about the top applications for the iPhone – for fun and business! From tracking your budget to tracking your diet, There’s an App for that! Find free and paid applications to help you get the most from your iPhone or iPod Touch. (Note: discussion and demonstration only; iPhone or iPod Touch not required for workshop, howevever if you own an iPhone or an iPod Touch, please bring either one of them for this workshop.)

Mac Advanced: Getting to the Core – INT/ADV

Now that you’re comfortable using your Mac computer, take your knowledge to the next level. Learn some basic maintenance tips and troubleshoot potential problems. Protect your data with a backup plan and learn how to recover files. You will learn about: maintenance, troubleshooting, Time Machine, etc. (Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of Mac, or having taken the “Mac: Basics” workshop. Laptop not required, but you are welcome to bring your Mac laptop.)

The Microsoft Series

Microsoft Windows 7 - BEG

Windows 7 is the latest release of Microsoft Windows, a series of operating systems produced by Microsoft for use on personal computers. This course is designed for any worker, business professional or private individual who needs knowledge in the newest features of this system. NOTE: This is not a hands-on workshop. (No computer necessary for this workshop)

Microsoft Office Suite – BEG

These hands-on workshops are for users of Word, PowerPoint, and Excel 2007, who want to get a handle on this whole ribbon thing and just accomplish some basic day-to-day tasks. If you don’t feel all that comfortable in the core applications of Microsoft Office, this is the session for you. Did you really think that you were the only one whose Excel print-out includes pages and pages of that last… trailing… column… of… empty… cells??? In these hands-on sessions, we will look at creating and formatting a basic document/slide show/spreadsheet. So jot down your Personal PowerPoint Peccadilloes and Woeful Word Worries, and bring them along to share and conquer! (No laptops necessary, these sessions will take place in a computer lab.)

Word – 1 Hour

Excel – 1 Hour

Intermediate Excel for Business- 1 Hour

Powerpoint – 1 Hour

Intermediate Powerpoint for Business – 1 Hour

The Organizational Tools Series

Database Design for NON-Profits – BEG

Is your nonprofit using or looking into a database to track membership, donations, events, gift shop sales, and more? If your budget is tight and your staffing resources are limited, this workshop will help you identify things to consider before you buy or build a database. Using a Microsoft Access database as an example, we will provide an overview of the power a customized database program offers in meeting the diverse needs of nonprofits. We will also discuss alternatives for managing data. Time will be reserved for questions. While the emphasis of this workshop is on nonprofits, small businesses may also find it relevant. NOTE: This is not a hands-on workshop. (No computer necessary for this workshop)

Getting Started with Constant Contact – BEG

In this live demonstration you will learn how to quickly and easily get started with email marketing using Constant Contact. Topics covered include account set up, choosing and modifying an email template, uploading your list, adding a sign-up box to your website, and branding with your logo and colors. A great workshop for new users looking to get a jump start on your email marketing efforts with Constant Contact. (No computer necessary for this workshop)

Online Event Marketing for NON-Profits – BEG

See how nonprofits of all types are turning to new ways of planning, managing and promoting their live and online events. Learn the best practices and tools of event marketing that save precious time are easy to use and designed to be flexible with the nonprofit in mind. Using real-life case studies learn exactly how others leveraged the tools and techniques that make online event marketing so appealing. Come with your questions and ideas and leave with real life solutions to make your events rock. (No computer necessary for this workshop)

Geek Girls Get Organized - BEG/INT

Get your personal and business life in order with easy to use desktop database applications. Learn how to use FileMaker Pro to quickly keep track of clients, contacts, employees, event planning, inventory, budget, and more. Also, save time (and money) by using some FREE software to help you be more efficient and organized. No Excuses! (No computer necessary for this workshop)

The Power of Email Marketing – BEG/INT

Did you know that repeat customers, clients and members spend on average 67% more than new ones? Building strong relationships with them is vital to growing your business. Reach the people who matter most to your organization with professional email communications that make you look great! If you’ve ever wondered what email marketing is and how it can help your organization, this seminar is for you. We will cover the basics of email marketing, why it works so well, and how to use it in your business planning and strategy to achieve specific goals. You can master email communications with this comprehensive look at winning strategies for getting and keeping quality subscribers, creating appropriate content, and increasing email deliverability and interaction to build business and drive sales. Let the power of email marketing grow your organization to new heights! (No computer necessary for this workshop)

The Google Proficiency Series

Photo-editing using Google Picasa – BEG

This is an intro level class designed for anyone that wants to learn how to get the most out of their images using a free product from Google called Picasa. By the end of the course students will be comfortable importing, organizing, editing, exporting, printing and posting their images online. Students will learn to use Picasa for general editing i.e., tweaking exposure, white balance, colour saturation, contrast, sharpness etc. We will also learn how to crop and straighten images, apply filters, and make some selective selective edits like removing blemishes. Finally we will look at creative treatments like converting your images to black and white, sepia, desaturated etc. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Google Apps, Part 1: iGoogle – Do You? – BEG

If you’re like most people, you use Google’s products several times a day to search for information or check email. Most people don’t know, however, how many useful tools Google has to make research and time management much easier. This workshop is designed to showcase a few of the products Google offers that may be worth trying for personal and business use. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Google Apps, Part 2: Now that You Google, Let’s Measure it! BEG/INT

Now that you have a basic understanding of Google we are now going to tackle some of the other wonderful applications Google offers, such as Advanced Search, Google Maps, Google Analytics and other tools Google uses to measure just how well websites measure up. Prerequisite: Basic understanding of Google or having taken the workshop “Google Apps, Part 1: iGoogle – Do You?” (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

“So you Want to Build a Website?” Series

So you want to build a website? Introduction to HTML & FTP – BEG

In this beginner session topics covered will be securing a domain and hosting account, transferring your files to the host server with FTP, basic HTML and the basic Dreamweaver user screens and tool menus. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but are welcome to bring one.)

Introducing WordPress and the Dashboard – BEG/INT

The hub of activity for your WordPress blog/site starts at the Dashboard. Understand the difference between posts and pages, create categories, add video and images, links, and best use of Tags. Learn to moderate comments and engage your visitor. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but are welcome to bring one.)

Beginning Dreamweaver: Design, Layouts, and Styles – INT

Now the fun begins! Discover the best practices for design and layout of web pages and the more in-depth options for interactive content including video, Google Maps and photo galleries. Also in this workshop an overview of Dreamweaver’s preset layouts and an introduction to cascading stylesheets. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but are welcome to bring one. Adobe does have free 30 day trials of Dreamweaver to download at adobe.com.)

WordPress Themes, Plugins and Widgets - INT/ADV

Not for the faint of heart, this workshop will explore the underbelly of WordPress and unleash the power of themes and plug-ins. Topics include: Backups, upgrades, plugin installations and changing themes. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but are welcome to bring one.)

Jump Into jQuery! – INT/ADV

What is jQuery and how will it help my site? Learn how to take advantage of this Javascript library without having to learn a lot of code! From dynamic slideshows to slick navigation, or animated effects for your site, jQuery is a must-see for anyone creating or maintaining a website. Easy to implement, you can start adding jQuery effects to your site in just a few minutes! (Prerequisite: Some understanding of HTML and CSS; some experience with JavaScript helpful. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but are welcome to bring one.)

Advanced Dreamweaver: Extensions and Widgets - ADV

This workshop is designed for the intermediate/advanced user who wants to take website design to the next level. Discover Behaviors, Assets, Spry Menus, Spry Widgets, and jquery Widgets. Note: Software and laptop not re- quired, though if you have Dreamweaver CS3/4/5 and laptop feel free to bring to class. Adobe does have free 30 day trials of Dreamweaver to download at adobe.com. (No computer necessary for this workshop)

The Social Media Proficiency Series

Social Media Primer – BEG

Social media is not a fad, it is the way people communicate. Advertising no longer has the impact that a conversation on Facebook or Twitter has. Learn how social media as revolutionized how we communicate and what it means for you and your business. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

The Power of Facebook for Your Business – BEG

Facebook is one of the largest networks on earth. With over x active users, Facebook is a powerful tool to learn about customers and to share information about your expertise. This workshop covers the basics of how to use Facebook effectively to gain a following for your product or service. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

The Power of LinkedIn for Your Business – BEG

LinkedIn is a powerful business networking tool that helps you to extend existing business relationships and expand your network. This workshop will cover creating an effective profile, building your network of connections, growing your reputation and using groups. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

Twitter for Business – BEG/INT

With over 7 million users, twitter provides a wealth of opportunities to find and share information. This workshop will cover why twitter is important, how to create an account and how use it to promote your business. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Social Commerce – INT/ADV

Looking for ways to push your local business on a grand scale or just trying to get the best deal for your favorite products/businesses online? Groupon, Living Social, and many other social ecommerce sites are HOT! Learn more about this new industry of social ecommerce and how it is changing how you shop and sell online. This workshop will cover how your business can use social commerce and how you can be a more savvy shopper getting the best deals you possibly can. Fair Warning: It’s totally addicting! (Prerequisite: Social Media Primer. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

Facebook for Savvy Admins – INT/ADV

So you published your page, got some friends and family to like the page. You’ve made some status updates and shared a link or two. And you think is this all there is? Boring… This workshop is designed to help the Business or Organization unleash the power of Facebook Marketing. We will review the new Admin menu, share custom page tips and tricks like Sidebars, iFrame tabs, B2B marketing and Facebook Ads. Learn to install Applications, take your page Mobile and Integrate with your website and blog. Resources will include Pages for Inspiration, Ideas for your Editorial Calendar, and a solid foundation to build your Facebook community.(Prerequisites – FB Business Page published, some HTML.) (No computer necessary for this workshop)

Social Media Time Management – INT/ADV

One of the biggest concerns with business is time. “How much time to I have to spend doing it?”. Social Media is no exception since we don’t have the hands that Ford or Comcast dedicate to managing their social media properties. So how can you make the most of your time and see some progress? In this workshop we will explore time management to successfully get involved in your community and be apart of the conversation.(Prerequisite: Beginner Social Media. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop)

So you want to be an Entrepreneur? What You Need to Know to Get Started INT/ADV

Everyone wants to be an Entrepreneur! And who can blame anyone for creating their own destiny? Have you ever noticed how some entrepreneurs are happy all the time, organized and full of passion, while others complain how badly things are all the time? A lot of this could be from lack of resources, lack of organization, and lack of web 2.0 computer, technical, Internet and marketing skills. This workshop is dedicated to the entrepreneur who has the passion, but needs a plan, is willing to take the initiative and learn some great online resources for helping to streamline their business. (Prerequisite: Social Media Primer. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

Location, Location, Location: Social Media with Location Apps – INT/ADV

2009 was the top year for Twitter. 2010 and 2011 are the years of “Location”. Social Media Web applications are not just letting you know “What you are doing”; they now want to know where you are doing it. Combining real-time status updates with GPS, Geo-Location, or Location apps, will be the hottest thing for Main Street businesses to engage in to get people in your door. Find out how to use location applications such as FourSquare, Gowalla and Yelp!, create a plan to engage your audience, get people to talk about you, have fun, and keep engaged in your community. (Prerequisite: Social Media Primer. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

Creating a Social Media Strategy Plan – INT/ADV

Social Media fails those who have no plan to follow. Do you have a plan? This workshop will take you through the steps of creating a Social Media Strategy Plan from understanding what “community”, collaboration and engagement are, being transparent, listening, being the resource, selecting the right channels and defining goals. It will also introduce you to strategies, methods and tips to get more out of the little time you have every day on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other apps, with some great, free tools and changing your thinking to being more productive. (Prerequisite: Social Media Primer. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

The QuickBooks Proficiency Series

Intro to QuickBooks – BEG

Learn how to manage essential financial tasks using Simple Start or QuickBooks Pro in a live computer lab with a practice company. Accounting 101, what is the Chart of Accounts, how to write an Income Statement, Balance Sheet. See how QuickBooks can make managing your business easier. (You do not need a computer or QuickBooks software on your laptop for this class. All QuickBooks workshops are taught in a computer lab with the software on the PC.)

Top 10 Errors QuickBooks Users Make – and How to Fix Them -BEG/INT

See common errors QuickBooks users make and learn how to avoid them, or easily correct them. Followed with Q&A. (You do not need a computer or QuickBooks software on your laptop for this class. All QuickBooks workshops are taught in a computer lab with the software on the PC.)

Intermediate QuickBooks – INT

Anyone who has taken the basic class, or if you have an understanding of QuickBooks should take this class. A hands-on lesson practicing how to create, modify and benefit from the many Reports QuickBooks offers for analyzing your financial data. (You do not need a computer or QuickBooks software on your laptop for this class. All QuickBooks workshops are taught in a computer lab with the software on the PC.)

Introduction to QuickBooks Point of Sale – Retail Management Software – INT/ADV

See Point of Sale in action and learn how it can help make you a more successful retailer. Attendees can take home a free demo CD. (You do not need a computer or QuickBooks software on your laptop for this class. All QuickBooks workshops are taught in a computer lab with the software on the PC.)

The Blogging Proficiency Series

The ABC’s of Blogs – BEG

There are so many parts to a blog – and they all work together to make your internet space a success. So, if these words sound like Chinese: headers, tags, categories, widgets, plugins, links and more – then this workshop is for you! We’ll define them and discover how to use them on your blog. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Your Voice: Blogging About What Matters – INT

Now that you’re blog is set-up to publish your precious thoughts, do you know what you want to say? You can pitch and sell all you want, but if the conversation doesn’t sound good, no one will listen. Knowing what you want to say and learning how to say it in YOUR voice is an important part of blogging and building a brand around you and your work. Find out just how to connect your voice with your blog and the audience you seek. (No computer necessary for this workshop)

The Photo, Video and Podcasting Series

Intro to Photography – BEG

Are you new to DSLR Photography? Are your pictures coming out blurry, too bright or too dark? Would you like to learn more about composition and lighting? Learn how to freeze motion or get blurry backgrounds. From composition to shutter speed, aperture & ISO, this course is designed as an all-encompassing introduction to DSLR photography for newbies. (No camera necessary for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one)

Camera Basics with Best Buy – Digital SLR or Point and Shoot? – BEG

This class will teach the basic differences between a Digital SLR and a point and shoot camera. Many people believe that a DSLR is a difficult piece of technology to learn but they can be just as easy as any other camera and this class will help show these things. We will cover the basic settings and functions of these cameras and learn to enjoy the products they own or would be purchasing in the future. Software will be shown on how to edit the images they take and upload them to an online service/host like Picasa or Facebook. (No camera necessary for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one)

Podcasting for Beginners – BEG

Have you ever listened to a podcast? Do you even know what a podcast is? If you’ve ever wondered about podcasting, then this session is for you. Get the scoop on what a podcast really is, who listens to them, how you can make one yourself, and how to get folks to listen to it once you do. Learn all the do’s and don’ts of podcasting throughout the day. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Video 101: Citizen Reporting and the Internet – BEG

You don’t need to get fancy, just get going! Adding Video to your website will give you exposure, and keep your audience coming back for more! We’ll

explore the ways to capture and edit video, basic techniques and where to put it once it’s done. This course will use Vimeo, Youtube, Blip.tv and Facebook! (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

MORE WORKSHOPS COMING DAILY!!! Check back every day for updates.