HBCU Tours - Great Experience

I had the pleasure to chaperone the tours of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Clubhouse members Marcellous, Reggie, James, and Shanelle were selected to participate. They received a 90% paid trip to visit the campus' of Spelman College; Morehouse College; Clark-Atlanta University; Alabama State University and Tuskegee University. The trip was organized by Mr. Carl Ray, whose company covered the costs of travel and accommodations for participants. This is a picture of NWAC clubhouse members in the Detroit Metropolitan Airport. We flew to Atlanta, Georgia and joined up with clubhouse members from throughout the United States. Our flight was delayed a few hours and the weather caused numerous delays and cancellations. When we arrived in Atlanta, there were people sleeping in the airport because they had missed their flight. Some of our group were already in the airport when we arrived. Although our flight arrived arround 11:00 pm, the last of the group did not get on the bus until after 2:00 am; by the time we got into our hotel room, it was after 3. We had to be at our first tour location at 9:00.

Thursday - Spelman, Morehouse & CAU

The girls toured the all girls college, Spelman, and learned about its dorm life, classes, buildings and organizations. Before going on their Spelman tour, the girls had the opportunity to briefly join the guys on Morehouse's campus. This was a rare honor, because Morehouse is an all-male college, but we (the girls) were a little early for our Spelman tour, so the guys were very gracious in allowing us to join them for a brief introduction of Morehouse, before their tour. We learned about the WELLs that define renaissance men:

1. They are well-read.
2. They are well-traveled.
3. They are well-spoken.
4. They are well-dressed.
5. They are well-balanced.

These WELLs should apply to girls, also. In fact, everyone should aspire to achieve these WELLs.

The girls went on the tour of Spelman; while the guys toured Morehouse. We all met up for lunch, which was followed by the tour of Clark-Atlanta. Everyone had the opportunity to go into a dorm room and speak with students about their college experiences. Following the tours in Atlanta we boarded the bus and traveled to Alabama.

On the way to Montgomery, Alabama, we were treated to a bonus stop at the Tuskegee Airfield. Mr. Ray gave a history lesson about the Tuskegee Airmen and their role in World War II. It was awesome to have this trip include this important piece of American history. If you don't know about the Tuskegee Airmen I hope you will investigate. It is important to know that it wasn't so long ago that African Americans were not permitted to participate equally in American society. There are still people today who believe that just because of your skin color, you couldn't possibly be intelligent. The Tuskegee Airmen proved them wrong and people like you are proving them wrong, everyday. Pictured here is Reggie next to a Tuskegee Airman Fighter Jet.

Friday - Alabama State and Tuskegee Universities

Our first school to visit was Alabama State University. We spent the morning at ASU and enjoyed lunch in their cafeteria. ASU is a state-funded university that offers associate's, bachelor's, master's, doctoral degrees and post-master's certifcates. We were all given a t-shirt and information bag before having three tour guides escort us around the campus. The girls were able to enter Bibb Graves Hall, a girls dormitory. (We learned that part of the history of this dorm is that it served as the home for Coretta Scott King and her daughters following the bombing of the King home in 1956).

The ASU campus is big and beautiful. It is located in the state capitol of Montgomery. This city is rich with the history of the civil rights movement. Each of the clubhouse groups were able to get their picture taken at a monument dedicated to the mother of the modern civil rights movement, Mrs. Rosa Parks. The encryption at the base of the monument reads "She sat down so that we can stand up". This was another great teaching moment. Pictured with the Detroit group are members from the Chicago clubhouse (from left to right: Antoine, Shanelle, Charles, Marcellous, Reggie, and James).

Before heading to Tuskegee University, we were treated to another bonus when we stopped at the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church. This is the first church that Martin Luther King, Jr. served as pastor. The church sits on the corner only a block away from the state capitol. The church has long been a protector of Montgomery's African American community. It was instrumental in helping to establish the Alabama Colored People's University, now Alabama State University; and it is the location where the Montgomery Bus Boycott was planned and organized. Shanelle got her picture taken on the steps of the church.

The afternoon was spent visiting the George Washington Carver museum on the campus of Tuskegee University. We were able to view a short film about the life of George Washington Carver, as well as touch and take pictures of many of the amazing pieces of history associated with his life. We had a great time reading the list of over 100 uses that can come from the peanut. George Washington Carver was the first African American to graduate from Iowa State University. He was the first African American faculty member there, also. Booker T. Washington convinced him to come to Tuskegee to teach and continue his research. He was an instructor at Tuskegee for over 4o years.

We also received a tour through The Oaks, the home of Booker T. Washington and his family. It was awesome to see the inside of this gorgeous home. Another teaching moment came when we learned that the home was designed by architect, Robert Robinson Taylor, the first African American to graduate from MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology is the number 1 technology school in world, according to US News and World Report.) Mr. Taylor was an instructor and designer at Tuskegee for over thirty years. He designed a number of the campus buildings, including the Carver Museum, which was initially the campus laundry. Equally amazing is that many of the buildings were constructed by students using bricks they made!

Saturday - Tuskegee University Open House

Friday was pretty awesome, but I think that Saturday topped it. We arrived at Tuskegee University for their Fall Open House. There was a full-day of events scheduled. It began with a Welcome Ceremony in the TU Chapel. There was singing, a skit, and the opportunity to hear from the Interim President and the Deans of each of the colleges and schools at TU. It moved from the Chapel to the gymnasium, where the entertainment included the band, cheerleaders, dancers, the ROTC, and Pan Hellenic presentations. It made me want to grab an application and sign myself up to attend this school. It was all that... and a bag of chips! Just ask Cello, Reg, JB or Shanelle! And it wasn't over. From the gym we went to the cafeteria and enjoyed a delicious lunch. We left the cafeteria and went to the football field where we watched the Tuskegee Golden Tigers beat the Kentucky State Thorobreds, with a score of 45 - 21. It was a great day at TU, U know!

We returned to Atlanta where we flew home the next morning. Carl Ray has been taking students on HBCU tours for over 20 years. He, once again, did an awesome job!

7 Years...and Counting!

The year our computer clubhouse opened was 2003. That same year, the Flagship Computer Clubhouse in Boston turned 10. We have a few years to go to reach my personal goal to achieve a decade, but I am so excited that we have reached seven! Seven is my favorite number! It has been prevalent in my life since the day I was born -- July 31. I was born on a Sunday and I was my mother's seventh child. My mother named me CAROLYN (her name, MALINDA, both have seven letters). I was born in a city (Detroit), in a hospital (Women's), on a street (Waverly), and went to a school (Willard); all with seven characters! If you think that's a lot, you should check out my list of 7 in my life. What is really amazing to me is that most of these things I had no control over! So it only seemed appropriate to celebrate the 7th anniversary of our computer clubhouse.

This was a great party that not only gave us the opportunity to learn about the history of the computer clubhouse, but it allows us to recognize the significance of having the only remaining computer clubhouse in Detroit. When we opened in 2003, there were three additional computer clubhouses that opened on the same day. Sadly, for the youth of this city, they are gone.

Since the NWAC Computer Clubhouse was awarded an Intel Refresh Grant last year, we were able to upgrade our hardware and software, and we are now ready to educate youth on using the latest technology tools. I am looking forward to seeing how you will design, create, invent and explore! Let's make some outstanding projects!

This picture shows Deonte, Mikayla, Selena and Donovan. They are all doing great projects in the clubhouse. Keep up the good work and remember to upload your best work to the Computer Clubhouse Village.

Clubhouse Closing

The clubhouse will be closed while I chaperone clubhouse members on the tour of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). We will be visiting Spelman College (for women); Morehouse College (for men); Clark-Atlanta University; Alabama State University and Tuskegee University.

Think about the projects you will work on when we return.

Importance of Using The Village

I decided that I am going to have to vent about the Village this week. Why, because there were only 8 projects uploaded last week -- and 4 of them were by Donovan! Who was only in the clubhouse on Wednesday, yet he managed to upload 4 projects. Thank you, Donovan! Now, what is going on with the rest of you? No, before I ask that question, let me exclude the 4 who also uploaded at least one project. Thank you, Tamara, Bryan, Kaprecia and Rhonda! Now, instead of asking the question, I'll simply state that doing projects and uploading your best projects to the Computer Clubhouse Village is required for you to continue coming to this clubhouse. If you do not have projects on the Village, then you are wasting the limited time, space and equipment of our clubhouse. This is unacceptable. We have new hardware and software. There are no excuses for any member not to be creating awesomely.
I know that many of you saw the awesome avatar character that Shanelle made of herself using Photoshop. The knowledge and skills for this creation came from a desire to learn and the determination to practice. For certain, Shanell is someone who can stay focused on what she wants to learn. She takes advantage of the free tutorials that provide guidance to master new skills. Her portfolio (that she hasn't uploaded to the Village) includes some great works using Photoshop. It excites me to see that she is expanding her knowledge into other programs like After Effects and Illustrator. Great job, Shanelle!


I see a lot of amazing work being done in the clubhouse. This past week Selena did a design with her email user name and worked with the pen tablet like a pro; Marcellous traced himself from a picture that included 3 or 4 other people and then he drew in a microphone that completely changed the scenario of the original picture; and Mikayla created a photo collage of her family. Unfortunately, I'm only one person, so things can slip past me. I don't always see your project while you are working on it. The Village is that place that you can be sure that I will see what you've done. Use it!

Assignments:

1. TP, V, B, P & PP
2. Preparing for 7th Anniversary and Lights on Afterschool party

October Plans

There are some important events planned for October.

This is the final week to upload a project that could be selected to be in the 2011 Computer Clubhouse calendar. If you have an original artwork project (Bryce, Photoshop, Paint, whatever) that you need help uploading, please let me know so I can help you. This opportunity ends on October 10, so let's get some great artwork submitted!

I want everyone working to build their portfolio of projects to display at our Open House/Lights On Afterschool/Birthday Party Celebrations on Thursday, October 21. This is a lot to cram into one evening, but it should be a lot of fun! Our computer clubhouse will turn seven this month, so we are going to have a birthday party to celebrate this milestone. As many of you know, there are clubhouses located throughout the United States and around the world, but this clubhouse is the only one in Michigan. There are a lot of people who don't even know that we exist. Our birthday celebration will include an open house event that you can invite family and friends to attend to see our creativity. Our birthdate coincides with the annual national event called Lights on Afterschool. An initiative of Afterschool Alliance to put the spotlight on the importance of afterschool programs. We have participated in LOA events in the past. This is the first year that we have combined the event with our birthday. I think that I have a great team of members. I'm looking forward to a great evening!

October is also the month that I will chaperone several members on a trip to visit some Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU tours). Make sure you note that the computer clubhouse will be closed the last week of this month.

Assignments

1. There are some assignments that you should automatically know are required: typing, my blog, the Village, and your portfolio are done each time you visit the clubhouse.
2. Portfolio cover for PowerPoint
3. Photoshop project and view Photoshop videos
4. Photography
5. Introduction to Adobe Flash

Trace Your Face Successes

Patricia's Trace Your Face project is simple enough for anyone to do in one visit to the clubhouse. Unfortunately, Kristophur was the only member to attempt the project -- two weeks ago! I wasn't very happy with that. You need to remember that to continue to come into the computer clubhouse requires that you do projects. My job is to guide you through learning various software programs by doing projects. There are dozens of programs to learn and it takes studying and practicing to learn advance features. There are only a few members that are exempt from doing the assigned projects. This is because I know that they are focused on improving their knowledge and skills in a particular area. For example, I know that when James comes to the clubhouse he is working on music; I know that when Donovan comes he's doing Photoshop; I know that Treymaine works in Scratch; and most importantly, their Village portfolio reflects progress. If you have not been given exemption, then you have to do the assignments listed in this posting. Since the majority of you did not accomplish completing the assignments posted two weeks ago, I decided not to give any new assignments last week. I decided to see what we could accomplish from the old posting. I'm glad to show-off what a difference a week can make. Wow! Keyona did an awesome job on this project! As usual, she didn't just try to do the assignment once and call it done, she used the guidance that I provided and went on to work on a second and a third picture. And I can see how she improved with each attempt. Great job, Keyona! (Can I clone you?) I love how she added the details of the original picture. It works for this picture. Yet, Bryan did an equally great project and I'm glad that he didn't add the details of the original picture.

This was not a hard project, but it taught some important concepts about Adobe Photoshop, such as the use of the pencil and paint bucket tools, which many of you know about from Microsoft Paint. However, Photoshop adds the process of layering that can't be done in Paint. As you continue to use Photoshop, you will find that layering allows you to make amazing art and designs. I know that Keyona does beautiful projects using The Print Shop, so I'm really looking forward to what she will produce with Photoshop. Remember, there are lots of tutorials available on YouTube and at tv.adobe.com, as well as on the Computer Clubhouse Village. You can learn this program and get better and better, and even learn to use your creations in other programs, like PowerPoint, Flash, and Premiere.

I like the works done by Tim, Deonte, Reggie, Martoine, Pheobe and Malik, but I'm disappointed that not everyone uploaded their work to the Village. I know that Tim may still want to color his project, but it looks like Pheobe and Malik are finished. Remember that uploading your projects is a membership requirement. You don't need to upload every project that you create. You should upload your best works. Now, if you do not have a username and password for the Village, then you need to let me know. You cannot set up an account on your own. You need me to do it and if you have forgotten your password, you need me to reset it.

Assignments

1. Typing Practice
2. Read Blog & Leave your comment
3. Photoshop: Put yourself in a picture with yourself
4. Upload Project(s) to the Village
5. Draw a picture at the Green Table and scan it
6. Click this link and Watch the Photoshop Videos
7. Explore the Autodesk website

Note: If you have not done your video introduction and your portfolio cover, you need to do these, also.

Clubhouse Focus: Adobe and Autodesk

Note to Computer Clubhouse members:

Always remember to sign into The Village before reading this blog.

You must have a Village account and an email account (preferably, gmail). Let me know if you need these setup or if you forgot your password.

I am so excited that Autodesk has opened its education community to the network of computer clubhouses! I hope that many of you took the time to link off of last week's blog post to check out the Adobe and the Autodesk websites. These are both awesome companies with amazing software! We will be using these sites alot, so get familiar with them. Please note that if you are not familiar with recognizing a link, here is an example: Link to The Clubhouse Village website. Notice the color difference, underline and that your mouse pointer changes to a hand when you are on a link. Simply click your mouse to go to the link. Sometimes a link will open in it's own window, and you can just close it to go back to the original site; and other times you can click the back button (arrow in upper left corner). A link can also be a picture, so keep an eye out for the pointer changing to a hand. Such as when you put your mouse over this picture by Donovan.

Autodesk is a world leader in 3D design, engineering and entertainment software. They make some amazing software for any type of design creation you can imagine. Their software was used in the making of the movie, Avatar. They have software for game making, movie making, architecture, engineering, and everything in between. In fact, like Adobe, there is so much good stuff that I have to focus training towards a specific category. I think that it is going to be fun to learn to design and create with the animation curriculum I have selected. Of course, if you have an interest in learning another area, let me know and I can download the required program(s) and guide you to training videos that will help you learn. As a group, though, we will focus on the Animation Academy curriculum provided directly from Autodesk. The process of downloading the required programs is going to take a few weeks; so we will be working on getting everyone familiar with Adobe Photoshop and Premiere.

Your assignments for this week are:

1. Read this blog and leave a comment
2. Typing Practice: Follow instructions on handout
3. Make a new binder cover for your 3-ring, clearview binder (Everyone must have their binder and binder cover by September 27)
4. Take 3 photos of yourself; 1 headshot, 1 full-body shot, and 1 choice (could be sitting, standing, close-up, far away, whatever)
5. Record a video introduction
6. Review the introduction video of Photoshop
7. Complete a Photoshop project and upload it to The Village

The following are suggestions and links to beginner Photoshop projects/training:

1. You can use your headshot and follow Patricia's instructions to Trace Your Face.

2. Start with the Getting Started episode and work your way through Learn Photoshop CS5. (Ask me about setting up an Adobe account so you will be able to store a playlist.)

3. Ask Donovan for help. The pictures in this post were done by him. He has been working in CS4, so he knows how to work with brushes and layers. You can link from his name to see his projects and profile on The Village.

Don't forget to check out all the links in this blog post and to leave a comment.

Clubhouse Program Resumes

I'm excited to have a new school year begin with great anticipation of the creativity that can come from our clubhouse. I am looking forward to welcoming new and old members into the clubhouse. There will be an orientation for all members and their parent(s) or guardian(s) to attend this week. Since attendance at the orientation is mandatory, I have scheduled it for both Thursday, September 9th at 6pm and Friday, September 10th at 5pm. There are several changes that have been implemented to improve the clubhouse. I will cover these issues during the orientation.

The computer clubhouse is a great place to learn some awesome software programs. Our participation in Adobe Youth Voices has provided each computer with the Adobe CS5 Production Premium. This suite of programs includes the award-winning Photoshop, as well as After Effects, Premiere, Illustrator, Soundbooth and more. In addition to the Adobe software, we now have access to the entire suite of Autodesk programs, including 3ds Max, Maya and programs used in the making of the movie, Avatar!

There is lots to learn in the clubhouse. I hope you're ready!

Teen Summit 2010

I had to shut down the clubhouse last week so that I, Donovan, James and Marcellous could attend Teen Summit 2010 in Boston. This was my 4th opportunity to participate in this awesome week of learning. The theme for this year was Mobilize! Act! Inspire! -- and indeed we did!

I picked up everyone and we left for the airport.

We arrived in Boston and took a cab to Northeastern University. We stayed in the West Village dorms.

Day 1 included a project fair for all the clubhouses to show off their talents and works.

Donovan displayed projects he'd done in Photoshop.

There was plenty of(and by that I mean, more than enough) food -- snacks, and meals.

Day 2 - We participated in a regional workshop. The Northwest Activities Center has the only computer clubhouse in Michigan. We are in the midwest region. We got to meet some of the members in our region. All were from Chicago where there are four computer clubhouses. My roommates were Brianna and Tytianna. We did a traveling storytelling project. It was fun!

That night we went to the Museum of Science for the Clubhouse to College/Clubhouse to Career (C2C) Fair. There were companies like Microsoft, Autodesk, Adobe, and Intel, as well as schools like Harvard, MIT, Berkelee School of Music and more.

Teen Summit 2010 Day 1

James, Donovan, Marcellous were each picked up by me and we were dropped off at the airport in plenty of time. Flying was a new experience for James and I don't think that he liked it very much. But, we arrived safely in Boston for Teen Summit 2010. We took a taxi to Northeastern University and spent almost an hour trying to find the dorm building. Finally, we ran into some other participants who escorted us to the dorm. We received our room keys and a book bag containing a notebook, a mini digital picture frame, a map and some other goodies. We are all in different rooms, so that gives us the opportunity to meet new people.
We participated in the Project Fair. It was an opportunity to people to show off the works done at their clubhouse. There was some great talent. I'll have to edit this latter and upload some of the video from the event. So far all is going well. I plan to provide a daily account of the events.

Weeks Are Flying By

I didn't have the opportunity to post a message last week, so I was definitely going to get to it this week. I hope that everyone is enjoying their summer. I can't say that I'm super happy with how mine is going, but I'm always learning from experiences. I know there are things that I will do different next summer. Sometimes things don't go the way you plan but they still work out okay. I haven't gotten the photography and videography supplies that are to be used for our Adobe Youth Voices (AYV) projects, but that's not stopping us from trying to learn the new software and make some awesome creations. If you haven't checked out After Effects you need to see the cool titling this program can create. You can watch videos on how to use all of the programs in the Adobe Creative Suite by visiting www.tv.adobe.com.

I'm pretty happy with the participation and creativity of several members. I have seen some good projects uploaded to the Village. I haven't seen very many hand-drawn artwork, but I hope that will change. The plans for our first Field Trip Friday did not go as expected, but it was still a lot of fun. Kelvin, Malik, Laresha and I had a great time on our photo/video excursion. We took pictures throughout the neighborhood and enjoyed dinner at the local Wendy's restaurant. It was a beautiful, sunny evening as you can see from this picture of Kelvin. Unfortunately the weather has not been very good for us to get out and do photoshoots. It is reported that there will be scattered showers this Friday. This means that our excursion for this Friday will have to be cancelled. I think that the only way to make these missed opportunities up is to plan a Field Trip Friday for each of the remaining weeks. What do you think? Remember, we were planning to go downtown this Friday and to the Zoo two weeks later. If we move this Friday's trip to after Teen Summit, then the new schedule would be:

August 6 - Downtown

August 13 - Zoo

August 20 - Belle Isle (our last day)

Are you interested in participating in any of these trips?

Clubhouse Closing

The clubhouse will be closed next week (July 26 - 30). Donovan, James, Marcellous and I are going to Boston for Teen Summit 2010! This event is a week of fun learning that includes staying on the campus of Northeastern University. You can check out the Village to find out more about Teen Summit. It is a biennial event held in Boston since 2002. The Village has lots of pictures and information about the different tracks, the career fair, and the cruise on the Charles River. The career fair offers the opportunity to speak with workers from some very interesting companies, like Intel, Google, Microsoft and even Harmonix, the company that makes Rock Band! Here is a picture of Desmond, a member of our clubhouse who went to Teen Summit 2008. He is holding the new Rock Band guitar--before it came out!

First Week Hits and Misses

The summer program started on Monday, July 28. It was very disappointing to find that several members had signed up, but were not present. It would have been nice if anyone who signs up but cannot (for whatever reason) participate, will call me and let me know that I can free-up that spot. I have planned to have 11 girls and 11 boys in my summer program. I am keeping my fingers crossed that this week is better than last week.

Check out the numbers:

M: 7girls
T: 5girls 3boys
W: 3boys
H: 7girls 8boys

I definitely expect to see better numbers for Week 2.

Of course, Week 1 was not a total failure. I had the pleasure of meeting Tyrese, Irick, Tionne, and Cherish. They are the newest clubhouse members. I'm looking forward to the creative energy they bring to the clubhouse. Although I still have to set up a Village account for Tionne and Cherish, I was glad to see that Tyrese and Irick were able to upload project(s) they created. It's hard to believe that Tyrese was able to make this beautiful Bryce creation on his first use of the program. Way to go, Tyrese! He was also able to complete and upload three projects in his first week!

The following members were also able to upload projects:
Alethia, 1
Irick, 3
Jada, 1
Mikayla, 1
Taylor, 3
and a surprise appearance of three projects by Marcus, who is working primarily from home. I am going to forward our assignment sheets to him each week. Don't forget that you can link from the name to check out their Village profile/projects, but you should already be signed into the Village.

The above list shows that there are several members in the clubhouse that have not uploaded any projects. If you need help getting your project uploaded, you should see me or ask one of the above listed members to help you. The only members that have an excuse for not uploading their projects are those who have never gotten a Village account set up.

Finally, I just want to mention, Field Trip Fridays. This is our opportunity to get outside of the clubhouse and produce video and photo projects. I have prepared an information sheet that you should take home with you. It explains that there are no funds to provide transportation for members to get to the selected site, but hopefully, you can get dropped off and picked up, so you can participate. This Friday we will be in the culture center. Our starting point is on the Cass street side of the Detroit Library at around 4:30pm. Let me know if you will be able to participate.

Don't forget to leave your comment. If you don't have a gmail account, then sign into the Village and use your email account there to send to my email account shown on the tag on your monitor.

Welcome to Week One!

I'm excited to start a summer program for the seventh year. Wow! I should be a super genius by now! Well I can't claim super genius status, but I can say that I know a lot of software applications and I get a lot of pleasure from using, learning and sharing what I know. This should be a fun summer because not only do we have new computers, we also have the new Adobe Creative Suite 5 Master Collections. There's a lot in it that I have to learn, so we are going to be learning together!

I want to let all of my new students know that I'm happy to have you in the clubhouse. We do fun learning so I think you'll like it here. I'm looking forward to the creativity you will bring. I can already say that I am impressed with Mayowa Olorunsola, who drew a picture while his dad completed his application. That's a good member for this clubhouse. Welcome! Welcome! Welcome! He is off to a great start because on each attendance you are required to draw. You might as well like doing it. I'm also excited and happy that I will have some great help again this summer. I am very pleased that Patricia and Herschel are home from college and they want to volunteer in the clubhouse. I know you can learn alot from either of them. Be sure to thank them for volunteering.

Another requirement that you have is for you to read this blog immediately after you sign in and boot up your computer. I will be posting assignment sheets on this blog so you can link to them or pick up a printed copy from me. Unlike during the school year, when I would write this blog each week, during the summer program I may post a message each day, so it is your responsibility to check this blog each day.

This is Week One so we will mostly be getting to know the rules and requirements. Which means collecting a bunch of handouts. Everyone should have a clear-view, 3-ring binder. Answer this question: What do we do in the clubhouse? If you don't know the answer, you soon will. I know all my old members should know the answer, so if you are new, you aren't expected to know. But you need a binder.

I look forward to some awesome creativity coming from all of you! We will have contests and win prizes! So I know that everyone is going to want to do their best! I'm excited that Keyona is in the clubhouse again this summer. She completed a story for every item on the Write About handout last summer and she won a prize. Way to go, Keyona!

I'm not going to announce what the prizes are but there will be awards given for:
Best Original Artwork (something you drew or created by hand)
Best Computer-Generated Artwork (something created using a software app like Photoshop, Bryce, Paint, TPS, InDesign, this list is really long, you could even use Word)
Digital Photography (Can you capture a picture that speaks to the viewer?)
Short Film (live performance)
Short Film (animation or stop-action animation)
and possibly others.

We have software and training tools that will help us in making great projects. Who is up to the challenge to write a script, get other members to act it, and ultimately produce a film? You probably aren't, yet, since this is the first week, but keep it in mind as we venture out to shot video. Some of you may want to go back and read some of my earlier post, especially the ones about AYV and Creating with Purpose. During the school year we were not successful at implementing Field Trip Fridays, but beginning next Friday, we will be doing off-site photo and video shoots. If all goes as planned, we will use the following schedule:

July 9 - Cultural Center: Wayne State University, Library, Museum
July 23 - Downtown: Comerica Park, People Mover, Campus Martius ($5)
August 6 - Detroit Zoo (ages under 15 = $10; 15+ = 15
August 20 - Belle Isle Park - Final Day Picnic

Please note that you will have to have your own transportation to and from the site. Also, parents and guests are welcome to participate.

You must leave a comment about this blog post. You can ask questions or tell me about your interests or concerns. Let me know what you think about the computer clubhouse and again, Welcome!

Summer Program Sign-up

I'm excited to let everyone know that the Adobe Creative Suite 5 software is now available on most of the clubhouse computers. I still have to load it on the music room, but the rest are ready. I have also submitted my orders for the hardware that will be purchased. So we should soon be ready to fully participate in Adobe Youth Voices. The timing may not be perfect since it is almost the end of the school year and many of you will not be coming during the summer, but AYV is an ongoing program. I expect us to be "Creating with Purpose" for many years. Note, Adobe CS5 was just released in April 2010. BTW, Congratulations to Treymaine for providing the awesome artwork for the new clubhouse flyer and brochure.

I want everyone to know about the following three things:
1) Summer Schedule
2) Summer Projects
3) Youth Mentors

The Summer Schedule will begin on June 28 and end on August 20. The hours will remain the same (3:30 - 7:00), however, (thanks to Kenyae) I have decided to include a Boys Only Day. I resisted against it since I'm not a boy, but Kenyae wore me down. So, I'm ready to see how it goes. The following is the daily schedule:

Monday - Girls Only
Tuesday - Girls & Boys
Wednesday - Boys Only
Thursday - Girls & Boys
Every other Friday - AYV Activity

Summer Projects
If you think you want to participate in the summer program, make sure you know that you will have to do several projects each week. The Adobe Creative Suite contains over 10 programs, we will be learning to use Photoshop, InDesign, Flash, Fireworks and Premiere. The list of projects will include:

• 2 Write Abouts (1 pager; 14pt max.)
• 1 PowerPoint (start at 7 slides and increase 1 each week)
• 2 Drawing projects (1 on paper; 1 on pc)
• 1 Bryce
• 1 Photoshop
• 1 The Print Shop / Publisher / InDesign
• 1 Flash
• Digital Photography (3-5 shots; max.10)
• 1 Premiere

There are lost of other software programs (Scratch, Pivot, etc) that you can explore and learn, as well as the opportunity to do individual activities, like sew, make jewelry, do arts and crafts, build with Legos, and more. Let me know if you want to sign up.

Youth Mentors

The summer is a great time for teen-aged, high school members to help out in the clubhouse. You can gain valuable knowledge and skills by assisting younger members to learn software. You must commit to a schedule and think of this opportunity like it is a job. You can fulfill a DPS graduation requirement by gaining community service hours. Most youth mentors are able to gain over 100 community service hours by helping during the summer. The number of youth mentors needed is only about 5 or 6. If you want to take advantage of this opportunity, please let me know as soon as possible.

I'm looking forward to a summer filled with creative learning. I hope you are, too. Leave a comment and let me know what you think.

Let's Try Again

In spite of weather conditions that have kept us from achieving project goals. I am determined to persevere and see us performing outdoor AYV and C2C activities. So, this Friday, May 28, we will do an AYV project in our neighborhood. Wrap your brain around the theme of "How we do it in Detroit" (You can define the "it" to be whatever you want it to be.) For example, you can say the it is dances and record a video showing how a [or some] dances are done in Detroit; or you could show how people greet each other; or make a poster of Detroit landmarks. We will be recording our videos outside. You will have to work with a team if you want to do a video project. You will have to have a script and your cast and crew selected before you will get a camera.

I am happy to write that the funds to purchase AYV hardware have arrived. I will be placing an order for the supplies we need. I have also received the information necessary to download the Adobe Creative Suite software onto our computers. I don't know how long it will take for hardware supplies to come, but I plan to have the software loaded by the end of the holiday weekend.

Posting Projects on the Village

I want everyone to know that the projects you post on the Village should be your best original work. It should not be a picture or gif animation that you simply found on the Internet. In addition the project should be appropriate for all viewers. I say this because I recently had to delete several projects. One was a video with a fight happening in the background. Okay, it wasn't a real fight, but Miya hit her cousin Tyler upside the head and Jada (the video recorder and poster) didn't seem to have a clue that this had occurred. Another picture that was creatively designed by Donovan contained a profane word. Totally inappropriate. You cannot use profanity in your writings, drawings, music, or any project your create in the clubhouse. Please be aware of the quality of your postings. They are a reflection of you and our clubhouse. I am very proud of the work that I view from most of our members.

Youth Impact Survey

It is important for every NWAC Intel Computer Clubhouse member to have a Computer Clubhouse Village account. If you do not have an account (or you have forgotten your password), you need to see me, immediately. Throughout the month of May, members are required to complete the Youth Impact Survey. It is on the Village home page, under the My Stuff area. If you have already done the survey, then let me know what you think of it in your comment. If you have not done the survey, sign into the Village and get it done, today.

Field Trip Fridays Update
Our planned trip to Belle Isle was cancelled because of rain. It would have been a big mess to try taking picture in the mud. The delay has provided the opportunity to review some of your ideas. In retrospect, I think that the idea to go to Belle Isle at the end The tentative schedule (that means it could change) is:

Date Location/Description/(free)
5/28 - Our Hood - NWAC, Mumford, Schulze, and more (free)
6/11 -
6/25 - Downtown: Comerica Park, People Mover, Campus Martius ($5)
7/9 - Cultural Center: WSU, Library, Museums ($20)
7/23 - Ann Arbor Art Fair (TBA)
8/6 - Detroit Zoo (ages under 15 = $10; 15+ = $15
8/20 - Belle Isle Park - Final Day Picnic

We still need a location for June 11; let me know your ideas.

Motor City Makeover is This Saturday (May 22). Sign up with Makaela or Shai to participate.

Don't forget to leave your comment.

Motor City Makeover and More

The opportunity to give back to where you live and help to build a better community is essential to being a good citizen. It is in this spirit that members of the NWAC Intel Computer Clubhouse volunteer to participate in the City of Detroit's annual cleanup event called Motor City Makeover. This year we are offering two sign-up opportunities. In addition to being able to sign up with the computer clubhouse, Shai is encouraging members to join her environmentally-conscious organization called Green Horizon*. This group explores ways to help improve our environment. They participate in events that improve our planet. It is a teen organization, so you have to be 13 - 19 to join. You can see Mikayla to sign up with the clubhouse group; see Shai or Rhonda to sign up with Green Horizon.

We will be cleaning around the Northwest Activities Center and, depending on the number that volunteer, we may also be able to help our neighbors in the apartment next door; and further up Meyers. Plans are to dedicate 3-4 hours on Saturday morning, May 22. We will meet in the Computer Clubhouse at 8:00; pick up our supplies and equipment; and head out to work. We will be working from around 8:30 until noon. Parents and friends can sign up, also. Let's stay focused! Do a great job! Really see that our efforts make a difference in Detroit!

Your Comments Are Meaningful

It is always a difficult decision to cancel anyone's membership, but leaders have to know how to, when to and why to take this difficult step. I try to make every youth who joins the NWAC Intel Computer Clubhouse know that he or she must fulfill certain requirements of membership. I don't think that the requirements are unrealistic or hard to achieve.

First, you work on a project or projects when in the computer clubhouse. This involves using the hardware, software; or website you choose, but it must allow you to design, create, invent or build a project. I rarely assign a specific project to be done. I follow the guidance of the clubhouse learning model. It encourages you to learn by designing projects that are of interest to you. I have seen how this model is effective through projects created by former NWAC Intel Computer Clubhouse members like Herschel, James and Patricia.

Second, you upload your best work to the clubhouse village website. Herschel, James and Patricia studied and learned to design, create and build awesome projects. Their portfolios on the Village helped them to each win a $5,000 college scholarship from the Intel Computer Clubhouse Network C2C Scholarship to help them pay for their college classes.

Herschel works a lot in Bryce and Photoshop. He created this picture, titled "Acez Field", using Bryce. James is great at using Photoshop, Flash and Premiere. He created this Shigiro animation using Photoshop and Flash.
I couldn't get the animation file to open, but if you want to check out how the X in this picture opens up and has a little Shigiro inside, sign into the Village and click here on the picture to go to James' village page. And well, Patricia was an awesome Lego builder, check out her video; she builds robots.

Many of you know that Herschel and James are clubhouse mentors. They are in the clubhouse several days each month. They are happy to teach what they know; if you want to learn. I know somebody wants to learn how James did this project. The next time he comes to the clubhouse let him teach you.

And third, you read this Blog each week and leave your comment. This blog is written to update members on things that are happening with our clubhouse; to showcase the outstanding works that are posted on the Village; and to give you the opportunity to tell me your ideas for making our clubhouse, and the projects we do, better. My number 1 goal is to keep our clubhouse operating with the mission in mind. I want to see creative, amazing, awesome projects come from our members (Like the Pivot animation Marcellous did last week. Awesome. I'll make sure I link to it next week. Unfortunately, it isn't uploaded to the Village, yet. :-( But he does have some other cool stuff to see).

I like that I have former clubhouse members who have been rewarded for their outstanding participation in our clubhouse, but it is important for me to see rewards come to now and future members. The NWAC Intel Computer Clubhouse membership can be rewarding. It provides the opportunity to learn and use professional level software and hardware. If you are not fulfilling the membership requirements (1, 2, and 3), your membership must be cancelled.

Remember, you need a Google account to leave a comment. See me if you need help setting one up.

*not affiliated with any national or international group, organization, or business.

Clubhouse AYV Plans

A clubhouse leadership meeting was held on Friday, April 30. Clubhouse President, James and member, Donovan were present. We discussed plans for engaging clubhouse members in various AYV activities. We concluded that beginning on Friday, May 14, 2010, and continuing every other Friday through August 20, we will select a site for a Photography/Videography Excursion. The selected site will give us the opportunity to learn and practice using digitial and video cameras.
The plan is for clubhouse members to be dropped off and picked up at the designated site. We brainstormed on what locations would be best. We considered that the cost had to be zero or near zero to make it easy for members to participate (although we did decide that some sites were worth paying for). We created a tentative list that I will post next week. We remain open to ideas and suggestions.
We decided that our first site will be Belle Isle park. Belle Isle is one of the jewels of Detroit. It is an island park that will provide great photo and video opportunities. You can sign up to attend. We have not yet received the funding that we will be using to purchase additional digital cameras, so if you have one, you can bring your own. I will bring tripods and cameras from the clubhouse. We will be walking a lot, so be prepared. We will meet at the Playscape/Giant Slide area at 4:30 and spend about 30 minutes shooting here. We will walk over to the river and shot with the water as our backdrop. Over the next week, we will look at the map of Belle Isle and at websites to determine our route. We may decide to do other dates at Belle Isle because we will not be able to cover all of the great locations in one evening. I know that most of us have been to Belle Isle many times, but remember, you are on a photo-shoot. What shot will make the best picture?

AYV - Create with Purpose

I had a great time in Atlanta last week. It was a time to see old colleagues and learn new ways to improve our clubhouse. I stayed at the W Hotel and the Courtyard Marriott. It was important for me to attend this year's conference because our clubhouse is now an Adobe Youth Voices (AYV) site and all new computer clubhouse sites received extensive and intensive training during the week.

The week included a variety of activities and workshops. There was a tour of the city of Atlanta. It is the city where Martin Luther King, Jr. was raised and preached; the home of Turner Broadcasting, which includes Cartoon Network, CNN, and more; and it has the world headquarters of Coca Cola, as well as many other great businesses.

There was a talent show featuring a number of talented clubhouse coordinators. There was great food and fun provided by the Intel Computer Clubhouse Network. It was all good - including the weather! I truly enjoyed the expo event that allowed each clubhouse the opportunity to display the works done at their clubhouse. I was happy to present the photos I have framed for our clubhouse walls. It was great to learn so much about what is happening at other clubhouses; and to do so in a short amount of time. I also enjoyed meeting the leaders of other clubhouses that are also AYV sites. There are some that have been participating for awhile and there are others (like me) that are new. The new sites were able to get first-hand information about the successes and challenges of implementing AYV.

On Thursday, the new sites were required to participate in an intensive, all-day, AYV training that included an exercise in brainstorming an idea, storyboarding the idea and collaborating to produce the best project. It was a fun exercise that helped us learn about important tools and techniques for developing compelling media.

On Friday, I elected to attend a full-day video production training. We used a professional video camera and Adobe Premiere (video editing software) to make a film that depicts some of our concerns, such as violence, diversity and education, and let everyone know that the Computer Clubhouse is a solution. Not a bad production, considering that it was conceived, recorded, cut and credited in a few hours (and some of us had never done any of these before). We learned a lot, so I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of our new Adobe CS software. In the mean time, think about video projects that are about things that have meaning to your life and your community. There are some great idea floating around. Like Shai's idea to do a digital yearbook for Mumford's Class of 2011. And the idea to document the "real" Eight Mile. And even the idea to write a rap about the clubhouse and record a music video featuring Detroit landmarks. I like all of these. Let's make something happen! Let me know your ideas!

Clubhouse President and Vice President

The votes have been counted and James Beckem is the NWAC Intel Computer Clubhouse president. In addition, the selection for vice president is Tyler Crenshaw. They deserve genuine congratulations. In fact, I congratulate everyone who participated in this effort to develop clubhouse leadership. I think that Shahnaz and DeMario did a great job on their campaigns. I appreciate that they stepped up to run for a position. I also believe that every member who voted played an important role. It is now up to you to tell your prez and vp your ideas for improving our clubhouse. We can make a lot of great creations! I am looking forward to how our computer clubhouse can display its greatness. We can only become a better clubhouse if we have members who desire to design, create, invent and explore - to their highest potential.

AYV Training Requires Closing Clubhouse

The NWAC Intel Computer Clubhouse will be closed from April 5 - 15, 2010.


I announced a few months ago that our clubhouse has been awarded the Adobe Youth Voices (AYV) grant. This is an exciting opportunity that will give our clubhouse enough copies of the Adobe CS4 software for all of our computers. This package includes Photoshop, InDesign, Flash, Dreamweaver, Premiere, and more. These programs are awesome for graphic design, photography, web design, video editing and movie making projects. Right now, the only computer in the clubhouse with all of these programs is the one primarily used by Donovan. And as far as I can see, he only uses Photoshop (which he is very good at), but it would be nice to see some of the other programs being used.


I hope that all of you are looking forward to the creative projects that we will be able to produce with this new software. If you are not familiar with these programs, take the time to investigate each of them and know what types of projects can be produced using Photoshop, or Flash, or InDesign, or Primiere. You might also learn that you can do a variety of projects that use a combination of these programs. Check out some of the projects done by other AYV participants. The AYV motto is "Create With Purpose". We have the tools, let's put our brains to the task of planning meaningful projects about our neighborhood, our school, our city, state, country, and planet. We can use InDesign to create a magazine; and Adobe Premiere to create documentaries and short films; and Adobe Dreamweaver for awesome websites. Think about the projects you want to create and you can learn the software needed to create it. I don't know exactly when we will receive the software, but I will be going to Atlanta next week to receive training, so I should know more when I return. I am hoping that the software will be available shortly after the training.


So take note: The clubhouse will be closed April 5 - 15. It will reopen with a new schedule on Monday, April 19. I will be announcing the schedule change throughout the remainder of April, with the new schdule will be fully enforced beginning on May 3rd.

The Final Candidates

The deadline to declare a desire to become the NWAC Computer Clubhouse President and Vice President was March 24. I am excited that we have two candidates vying for each position. They are (in order of declaration): Tyler for VP; James for President; DeMario for President; and Shahnaz James for VP. The voting will start on Monday and end on Wednesday with the selection of the president and vice president with the highest votes. Remember: you can only vote once -- be mindful to select the persons you believe will best serve our computer clubhouse.

There are a lot of clubhouse activities that our clubhouse members can be part of each year. This year we have been selected to join the Adobe Youth Voices program. This program will give members an opportunity to produce meaningful video projects about living (and surviving) in Detroit. These videos will be posted on the AYV website and may be entered into contests. (See my blog post: AYV Training Requires Closing Clubhouse.) In addition to AYV, this is the year of the Intel Computer Clubhouse Network Teen Summit event that takes place every other year in Boston. This event allows the best two - three clubhouse teenaged members to spend a week in Boston with clubhouse members from all over the world. It is a fun and creative week that leaves a lasting impression on everyone (kids and adults) that attends. This year Teen Summit is especially significant for me because it occurs during my birthday week (July 27 - August 1). My birthday is July 31. There is also the Clubhouse Scholarship applications for members who are high school seniors. We will announce when the application is available, but keep in mind that the projects you post to the Village are your portfolio. They should reflect your best works because members and clubhouse managers from around the Network can view your projects. We will also begin our Field Trip Fridays, where members who are interested in photography and videography will be able to sign up to go on community shoots. The clubhouse leaders are essential to helping with plans.

As you can see, there are lots of plans to work on. You can see why I am looking forward to the assistance of a clubhouse leadership group. I think that our candidates are all worthy of the tasks. If you didn't get a chance to meet the candidates, I will tell you a few things that I know about each of the them:

Tyler is the only girl in the race. She is running for vice president. She is ambitious, creative, intelligent and a fast learner. She has created projects using programs like The Print Shop, Bryce and Paint. Even if she doesn't win (this time) I am proud of the work she did on this campaign. Tyler created several posters, she had a campaign manager (her cousin, Miya), she had business cards and made a commercial featuring rapper extraordinare, Marcellous. Awesome job, Tyler!

James is a dedicated clubhouse member. He joined the clubhouse in 2008. This makes him the candidate with the longest membership. He is running for president. He has amazing music knowledge and skills. His Village projects display creative music talent, but his portfolio includes works in other programs, like Bryce, Word and even, 3ds Max. His poster states his intentions to help the computer clubhouse.

Demario is adventurous and explorative. He is running for president. He will certainly bring the spirit of "lets do something" to planning fun and creative activities for our clubhouse.

Shahnaz is the newest clubhouse member among the candidates. He has jumped into being an outstanding clubhouse member by posting several creative projects on the Village and expressing the desire to be our computer clubhouse vice president. For a while we thought that Tyler might be the only person running, so I'm glad that Shahnaz decided to run. His campaign poster shows his love for the wolf. My motto is "an animal lover is never a bad person".

Good luck to all the candidates. I hope that each of you will be in the clubhouse on Wednesday, March 31, when the final votes will be taken and tallied, and the winners will be announced.

Gearing Up for the Vote

I am excited that there are several candidates vying for the positions of clubhouse president and vice president. Right now they are: Miya, James and Demario for president and Tyler for vice president. You still have another week to declare your interest in one of the positions. I hope that you understand the importance of clubhouse members taking on leadership positions in the clubhouse. It makes a real difference for ideas and decisions to be implemented that are the desire of members. As we move forward to improve the overall clubhouse program I believe that our clubhouse will be better as we gain greater input from members. Remember, the last day to declare your candidacy is March 24, and voting will begin on Monday, March 29. All votes will be counted on Wednesday, March 31 and the winners will be announced. Please be sure to ask the candidates about their plans for improving the clubhouse. You want to be an informed voter who helps select the best people.

There were some great projects uploaded to the Village last week. A total of 21 projects were uploaded by the following 15 members:

Shai (1) - I always like pictures and I really like the black and red colors in this project.
James (2) - You continue to post great music and I'm glad you are running for Clubhouse President.
Breeya (1) - I like that you are working in PowerPoint, but you have to learn to add pictures and some of the creative touches available in the program. You should get with Mikayla or me to learn how to animate your text and add pictures.
Taryn (1) - This is a very creative idea for a Pivot project. I can see the cheerleading theme being used in a variety of ways. I like that you completed the interview section when you uploaded your project. Although you stated that you want to do a "softball" project next, I would encourage you to continue doing a few more cheerleading projects.
Donovan (2) - Please read my comment on the Village. I really like the work you are doing in Photoshop. When I see how outstanding your creativity is in Photoshop I cannot wait until the Adobe Youth Voices grant is awarded, because we will then have Adobe CS4 on all of our computers. Don't forget that you can get a lot of help using Photoshop from several websites, including adobe.com and youtube.com
Tyler (1) - This is a very cute Paint project.
Miya (2) - I hope your business class liked this as much as I did.
Demario (2) - Another candidate for president, I think you produced some great posters. Let's hope that they get you the votes you need.
Hailey (1) - I hope the Eagles are winning because they certainly have some terrific cheerleaders.
Kenyea (1) - Things that make you go hmmm!
India (1) - These are some nice family pictures. I think that you should put them on a card for you mom and dad.
Kevin (2) - We are going to figure out how to save a morph in a format that can be viewed in Media player. Maybe the programs website can shed some light. You should check it out at http://www.morpheussoftware.net/
Anthony (1) - Everybody should check out this basketball game done in Pivot. It takes patience and creativity to do Pivot well. You did a great job on this project, I really like it.
Mikayla (1) - I hope that this worked for your locker.
Deonte (1) - Another, thing that makes you go hmmm!

I am very pleased with most of the projects that are being uploaded. I hope that you will continue to share your "best" works on the Village.

Great Job!

I am very pleased with the variety of creative projects that have been done by clubhouse members. This past week there were 36 projects uploaded by 12 members. Marcus uploaded a total of 10 projects. Unfortunately, the general consensus is that all of his projects look like they were done by a pre-schooler and not a middle schooler. I have to say that the projects that you do and upload to the Village should not be about quantity, but rather, they should be about quality. You should use the Village as a place to display "your best work". Everything that you upload should be worthy of receiving a "cool ping". It does not please me to see projects that look like crap. Most of you do chose wisely and upload wonderful projects. Please take the time to read the comment I leave when I view your project. I may give you an idea on how to make your project better.

In addition to work uploaded by Marcus, the following members also uploaded at least one project:

Tyler
Mikayla
Miya
Breeya
Glynn
Donovan
James
Kenyae
Tiara
Martez
Jada

Next week I will begin listing those members who were in the clubhouse but did not upload any project. I have previously stated that when you put your projects on the Village, I can see the work that you do and be assured that you are not wasting our clubhouse space. I was pleased to see that members like Tiara and Jada worked on some very creative photo projects that really look great. I was surprised to not see the project that India was working on for two days. (What happened, India? Did it make it to Facebook, but not to the Village?). If you don't get your project uploaded, you need to make sure that I know what you are working on.

Plans are proceeding for a clubhouse election day on Wednesday, March 31, 2010. The following members have proclaimed their desire to work towards the betterment of our clubhouse:

Miya for President
James for President
Tyler for Vice-President

There is still time for you to announce your interest in running. The final day to get your name on the ballot is Wednesday, March 24th. I'm hoping to see some great posters and commercials about why you would be the best person to choose. Remember, if you want to help make our clubhouse the best after-school program in Detroit, then you should run for president and let your ideas be known.

Until next week...design, create, invent, explore!