Categories
Uncategorized

DRM (Done Ripping Music)

I spent much of my time since Xmas attempting to explain how iTunes, iPod, DRM, and freedom all work. Together and against each other…

I used Senuti and CopyPod to move files from different iPods into different iTunes libraries. I did my best to explain DRM and “Protected AAC” files to family members, and I didn’t even get into the doomspeak of “if something goes wrong, you can lose all your music!” I kept it pretty high-level, and just talked about how to manage multiple iPods on multiple computers with one iTunes Music Store account.

I did find it a little sad that things are still more complex than they need to be. I still have vinyl records and cassettes that are over 25 years old which I can play on any compatible device. Now that’s my definition of “Plays For Sure!”

I also bought a bunch of blank CD‘s which will be used to strip the DRM, I mean, make backups, of any songs I’ve gotten from the iTunes Music Store. It’s always good to have a backup.

Categories
Uncategorized

Xmas was Swell

If you tuned in last week, you may have noticed that my Xmas Spirit was Not Found, but it’s ok, all went well, and it was a good holiday…

Someone asked me if I got everything I wanted, and I had to think about it. Since I didn’t really want anything, I said “Yes, I got everything I wanted.” Actually, I suppose what I really wanted was to have a good holiday, and enjoy time with the family, and I did that, so it all turned out just fine.

Anyway, I hope your holiday went well. Right now I’m just wrapping up all the loose ends of 2006 and planning for 2007. (Projects on deck are the Web414 group and BarCampMadison…)

Categories
Uncategorized

Xmas Spirit Not Found

Ok folks, you know I don’t ask for much, but I need help. See, I’ve not got the Xmas Spirit like I should. Xmas is almost here, and I’m in a bummed out mood. There is no snow, it’s been raining for two days, and besides paying $1200+ to get the vehicle fixed last month the state of Wisconsin decided they paid me too much money during the summer and now wants $410 back before December 31st. (Thanks Wisconsin!) Bummer for me…

Anyway, things are more or less positive (except for the financial situation) so I really shouldn’t be bummed out. I’ve got the love of a great woman, 2 amazing kids, and 3 jobs which usually manage to pay the bills.

So either email me, or leave a comment and attempt to cheer me up. Thanks everyone!

(If I don’t see any comments by later today, I may start drinking heavily…)

Update: In an effort to raise my Xmas Spirit I started eating Xmas cookies, but now my stomach hurts. Damn you Xmas cookies!


Categories
Uncategorized

BarCampMadison: How Social Can You Get?

I finally decided on a session for BarCampMadison… How Social Can You Get?

I’m hoping to look at the typical “social networks” like Myspace and Facebook, but also look at how sites like Digg, del.icio.us, last.fm, Flickr, and others leverage social networking to enhance what they are already offering.





Categories
Uncategorized

BarCampMadison Go!

Just got an email from Ken Rheingans, letting us know that BarCampMadison is all set, and will happen March 3rd & 4th, 2007 in Madison Wisconsin at the Inn on the Park Hotel.

Also, a big thanks to Stratagem for being the location sponsor and covering half of the net connection fees.

Expect a planning meeting in the beginning of January, and after that promotion and planning will go into full swing. Let’s make this as awesome (if not more awesome) than BarCampMilwaukee.