June 1, marked the beginning of National Safety Month, so we’ve put together a short video on what you can do to be prepared in case of an emergency, as well as a few helpful tips. If you live near the coast, you are well aware that hurricane season is here!! Stock up and stay safe:
Water – at least 3 days of drinking water for everyone in your family including pets (about 1 gallon per person per day). Have a week on hand if possible. Backup sterilization devices (Steripen or Katadyn Extream) and water enhancerslike powdered mixes that replenish electrolytes are handy to have as well.
Food – at least 3 days of food per person and pet. We recommend foods that are easy to prepare and don’t require a lot of clean-up like peanut butter, Freeze dried/ dehydrated foods (available at camping stores0, and sweet treats and comfort foods. Don’t forget a can opener for shelf stable canned goods.
Lighting– a standard flashlight with extra batteries is a good start. Since lighting is as much a need as a sense of comfort, fun lighting ideas include Glowsticks and Glow-In-the-Dark Stickers.
First Aid Kit – extra allergy or prescription medication is a good idea. You may want to add old prescription glasses, sunscreen, and mosquito spray to your basic first-aid kit.
Communication – weather and battery operated radio, power inverter that plugs into you car, cell phone backup battery, and online wireless system (in case your phone is damaged), a wireless air card (for laptop) and a USB to back up documents and keep them safe.
Atlas – It’s important to follow the secure hurricane routes recommended by officials. An atlas will help you navigate in case you need to go off the beaten path.
Storage – keep everything in one safe place and don’t cheat and use it in the meantime. A nice backpack or storage bin is easy to grab and go and make sure items (like batteries or canned goods) are rotated out for freshness.
How can we help you stay safe during hurricane season?
Feel free to contact us (info@tendenci.com or 281-497-6567) for additional information or for help putting together your Hurricane Preparedness Kit.
Helpful Emergency and Hurricane Preparedness Sites
Of all the things I imagined seeing this weekend, a cheetah on a leash taking a leisurely stroll through the Houston Zoo was NOT on the list. But that’s the kind of thing that happens during Photo Day at the Houston Zoo.
Photo Day is a series of 6 outings during which photographers and photography enthusiasts can visit the Houston Zoo and take pictures of the animals. Fellow Schipulite Derek Key (@dereskey) and I had the opportunity to attend Saturday’s photo day…and that’s how we saw the cheetah.
Our Day…in Photos
The animals are likely to be active during the earliest part of the day, especially in the summer…in Houston. So for Photo Day, the zoo opens two hours early (at 7am) and lets photo enthusiasts catch the early risers. I’ve been to the Houston Zoo countless times, but this is the first time I saw so many of the big cats and rare birds.
The lions roamed their pen long enough for photo ops…
In addition to cool member activities, the zoo is also involved in conservation efforts like the Lone Star State Projects and fundraising to for treatments that help prevent elephant herpes.
The Pink Ribbons Project is launching a new campaign dedicated to encouraging men and women of all ages to ‘Get Checked’.
The “Get Checked” campaign is aimed to remind adult women and men to attend regular doctor checkups. Over 190,000 people are diagnosed with breast cancer every year and by the time many of them discover this, the cancer has already developed into advanced stages. Studies show that finding tumors early-on can increase your chance of full recovery by 20%.
The Pink Ribbons Projects asks that you simply submit a photo of your face and a brief message or story to encourage people to check themselves regularly as a preventive measure. Their “Get Checked” campaign site will feature you and many others to put a human face on breast cancer- as well as provide some exciting ‘Get Checked’ services as the site launches later this year.
After surviving breast cancer, co-founder Susan Rafte (along with her sister Jane’s) life long passion for dancing inspired them to start “The Pink Ribbons Project/ Dancers In Motion Against Breast Cancer” a group dedicated to educate people about breast cancer, in ways traditional methods can not. Their website states “Using the Arts to help save lives and improve the quality of life for those touched by breast cancer”. They aim to inspire and lift the spirits of those battling breast cancer and move people into action. Through performances and events they raise money to help those battling breast cancer. Besides the the Get Checked campaign, the Pink Ribbons Project also hosts the “Tour De Pink” bike race to raise funds for medical operations and supplies.
The Pink Ribbon Project also works in collaboration with Lance Armstrong’sLive Strong Foundation. This video documents Susan Rafte and how The Pink Ribbon Project came to be.
Since I’m still one of the new guys here at Schipul, I don’t have a lot of vacation time saved up. That said, I’m going to be spending quite a bit of time close to home this summer. However, that does not mean I can’t get that vacation feel right here in Houston. So today’s post is dedicated to the wonderful world of staycations. I also recommend any of these options for a friend coming in from out of town.
I lived with my parents (in Sugar Land) for a while after graduating from college. During the heydey of the Super Bowl and various All-Star Games, you could generally find me somewhere in the vicinity of Downtown. During that time, I had the pleasure of staying in the Alden Hotel, Magnolia Hotel and the Inn at the Ballpark. I also got to spend the week with the Rutgers Football team in the Hyatt Regency during the 2006 Texas Bowl. In short, I know my way around Downtown Houston hotels. Let’s break them down:
A Night at the Theater
Alden Hotel – Perfect for a Downtown weekend taking in the offerings of Houston’s Theater District. a+ is a great way to start your evening with amazing food and atmosphere. The hotel will whisk you to and from the theater, and their bar is the perfect end to a perfect evening.
Magnolia Hotel – The rooftop pool, while a tad bit small, presents a fantastic view of Downtown Houston and the surrounding areas. This is also a great location for Theater District events. However, they do not have a restaurant on site. Nor does their bar really have that great hotel bar feel. Still, if you want a quiet weekend away from it all, book a night at the Maggie. NOTE: Request a room with a view.
Take Me Out to the Ballgame
Inn at the Ballpark – While this is probably not a great summer to catch an Astros game, there is no doubt walking across the street to see on is a unique experience in its own right. Plus you have Vic & Anthony’s right next door. If you like baseball, this is your place to stay.
Night on the (Down)Town Hyatt Regency – If you went to high school in Houston, there is a distinct chance your prom was held at this hotel. If you haven’t been to it since your prom, you might be surprised to see how things have changed. new Lobby Bar, new restaurant, new everything really. The rooms are very nice, and it’s got a nice vibe. Plus, you’re blocks away from the Houston Pavilions. The Hyatt is one of the largest hotels in Downtown, so there’s always bound to be a number of travelers to swap stories with at the bar.
Four Seasons – What is it about a Four Seasons Hotel? Like the Hyatt, the Four Seasons has gone through some major renovations in an attempt to draw more locals. Their resort-style pool is tops among their Downtown brethren, if not any hotel in Houston. Besides, there is just something about staying in a Four Seasons. Add their convenient location to Discovery Green and Houston Pavilions, and you’ve got yourself an itinerary fit for the most ambitious fun seeker.
I know what you’re saying, I live inside the Loop, I can see Downtown from my window. Okay, so maybe Downtown isn’t going to give you that exotic out-of-town feel you’re looking for, but can you handle going outside the Loop? What about the Beltway? One of the funny things about Houston’s size is that you can drive across it, and feel like you’ve just been on a serious road trip. The burbs have done a good job creating places for people to visit. Both Sugar Land and The Woodlands have developed Town Centers that feature hotels and various dining and entertainment options. I’ve been to Sugar Land Town Square, and I highly recommend it. Kind of a small town feel with cosmopolitan style.
I know, OMG, THE BURBS! Okay, okay, I’ll keep trying. I do have one last recommendation for you, and it is JUST inside the Beltway. I am talking about the recently opened CITYCENTRE. I had the recent opportunity to spend the evening here with my friends from the Fresh Arts Coalition and Spacetaker during their Arternative Happy Hour event. What will probably surprise you first, is the number of people calling CITYCENTRE their nightlife home. Indeed, there was a great scene going at Yard House and Straits. I’ve eaten at both, and HIGHLY recommend both. The evening wound down with live music at Monna Lisa in the Hotel Sorella. The atmosphere was so great, that one friend exclaimed, “I feel like I’m out of town.”
So you see, a vacation doesn’t have to always be somewhere outside the city you live. All you need is the right frame of mind, and a fantastic destination. See you by the (hotel) pool!
Really Lyndia? YES really! The travel pillow IS essential for all travelers. If you’re not lucky enough to be in one of these, you’ll need one I promise.
We are all too familiar with the ‘I’m trying to sleep in this small space with the seats that hardly lean back without touching the person next to me†dance. It’s the same 4 or 5 positions that we seem to try over and over again until we are finally too sleepy to care and just pass out. Here are just a few.
The lay straight back position that makes your head flop left and right the moment you doze off. Only the talented that don’t move when they sleep can pull of this position. Others just end up with whiplash or with their head hanging down in front of them drooling.
Me, I like to sleep on my side so I try the lay back with my head turned position. Flipping back and forth from my right to left and left to right every time I start to feel my neck go numb.
How about trying to lift both legs on your seat and lay your head on your knees? Yeah that’s a really comfortable one.
If you’re lucky enough to get a window seat you can always use one of their small pillows to lean on the wall of the airplane. Of course there is always that gap between your seat and the concave airplane wall that causes your pillow to slip and fall repeatedly.
These are all reasons to BRING A TRAVEL PILLOW WITH YOU. They work and your neck will love you for it. My favorite travel pillow is just your regular old donut shaped travel pillow. I have an awesome Temperpedic one but the $10 ones you can get at the airport works great also.( They can be useful for sitting on too if you happen do something retarded like jump off a bridge into a river and bruise your tail bone. So I’ve heard). Here are just a few to check out
This travel pillow completely prevents your head from tilting forward. It has high sides to support the neck and head. There is chin support to stop your head from falling forwards. Fast inflation with included mini-pump and it folds away neatly into included carry case.
The Samsonite Double Comfort Travel Pillow with Pouch upgrades your comfort level in trains, planes and cars! The dual-chambered pillow allows individual cushioning of head and neck for maximum relaxation. Adjust by inflating each section for desired support and firmness. It is ultra-soft and ultra-comfortable and is complete with a handy carrying pouch.
Price: $26.95
With its patented ergonomic shape, the TravelRest pillow attached to any seat back, nestling against the head and neck to provide support and comfort in flight or on the road. Even without a seat back, TravelRest’s versatile design provides excellent support – simply sling the tether cord over your head and shoulder… and relax. Its the Ultimate Travel Pillow.
For the second year in a row, I am on the Host Committee for DiverseWorks’ Luck of the Draw Summer Auction. This is one of DW’s biggest events of the year, and one of the quirkier and memorable events in Houston each year. The concept is simple. DW asks artists from around the country to donate small works of art that are sold throughout the evening. Numbers are then drawn to determine who gets first crack at the 200+ pieces. As this is a DiverseWorks event, you can expect a great crowd, food and libations. And, to get you properly Gleeful, they’ve invited the choir from Houston School for the Performing and Visual Arts to perform at the event.
Art Change tickets start $100 (the price goes to $125 if you purchase after June 1.), but you can guarantee a Top 20 position for $250 (NOTE: Top 5 tickets costing $500 have sold out.) Regardless of what ticket you purchase, you’re getting a piece of art at a great price. Luck of the Draw is great because it introduces you to art collection in a fun and exciting way. Not interested in owning a unique piece of art? No problem, you can still be part of the fun for $25.
Now, if you can’t wait to get your artsy Glee action on, DiverseWorks is hosting a Glee Season Finale Watch Party at Lucky’s Pub on Tuesday, May 25 at 7:30 PM.
It should come as no surprise that my first post for the Schipul Blog would be related to the arts. This weekend is the 13th Annual Bayou City Arts Festival Memorial Park (a Schipul client). The Bayou City Arts Festival is one of the premiere visual arts events to occur in Houston every year. The Festival features artwork from over 300 artists in 17 artistic media. Oh, and our CEO, Ed, was one of the jurors for this year’s festival!
We hope you can make it out this weekend. Note there is no parking available in Memorial Park for the event. You will need to catch the shuttle at the Northwest Mall or Downtown. Shuttles run from 9:30AM to 7:00PM Friday, March 27 through Sunday, March 28. I advise taking the Downtown shuttle, that way you can grab a bit to eat Downtown before heading home.
In any case, it’s not like you’re not going to be outside in the beautiful weather this weekend. Why don’t to take in a little art with all that fresh air?
“Community is the difference between something that is boring… and something that is a phenomenon” – Dries Buytaert
The Schipul Drupal Rap Video, featuring AHughes and Qcait:
Around here, we are pretty passionate about Drupal – one of the platforms we use to build websites (including Web Entertainment Guide and Gulf Coast Balloons) – and what it can do for our clients. Last week I had the opportunity to see Dries Buytaert (creator of Drupal) at SXSW presenting on how Drupal is changing Content Management.
The biggest point I came away with was that when people talk about Drupal (and Open Source technology in general) they tend to focus on the fact that there are lots of people developing and improving the technology, but often leave out that these aren’t just any people. These are people who are extremely passionate – and that passion makes a difference. This passionate community is the X factor in open source that pushes innovation – and often gets overlooked.
“I never meant for it to be so big – it’s the people who made it” – Dries Buytaert
As part of the presentation, Dries showed off things the community has created for fun because they are passionate about Drupal: Drupal Easter eggs, Drupal stress balls, Drupal cupcakes, even a Drupal tattoo.
Our Drupal rap video is something we did for fun because we’re passionate about Drupal. So, I sent it to Dries. And he posted it on his site buytaert.com! Then he tweeted about it. Then @Drupal tweeted about it. Now we’re closing in on 1,200 views. We’re thrilled that so many people thought our video was worth sharing!!
I wanted to post this to give a huge THANKS to Dries and the Drupal community for sharing the video! We had a blast making it and we’re looking forward to many more!
The SXSW festival (or ‘South by Southwest – think Hitchcock, but geekier and in color) is an annual event that interactive, film and music enthusiasts all the world over look forward to with great excitement!
This year, as in years past, the Schipulites will have a small contingent joining thousands of other marketing and technology nerds in Austin for the Interactive portion of the SXSW festival. And… to say that we are excited would be the greatest understatement of the year 🙂
Here are the Schipulites that are attending SXSWi this year and some of the panels we are most looking forward to! Keep up with ALL of our SXSWi-related content on our shiny new Storme site at: www.storme.com/sxsw
What panels and events are you most excited about? Hope to see you there!! Be sure to say howdy if you walk on by – even if we’re busy Tweeting / blogging / video-ing 🙂
We’ve all come across email SPAM, but that is only where the annoyance begins. If you have a blog, a website that takes comments, or even a contact form, then you have probably seen some SPAM there, too. It used to be easy to identify, but spammers are becoming craftier at their game. Learn how you can fight back.
SPAM can pile up in your blog. Learn how to get rid of it.
Why people Spam
Before diving into the problem of comment SPAM, I’d like to answer this question: Why do people SPAM? The biggest purpose of comment SPAM is SEO-related. One of the things Google and the others factor into their algorithms is linkbacks. A linkback is any link from an external site back to your website. In many comment forms on blogging platforms there is an option to include a website, which is then linked to your name when you leave a comment. This is a way of telling people who it is that is leaving the comment. Spammers use this opportunity to link to trashy SPAM websites that make pennies per visitor. If they rank higher in the search engines for keywords like “free viagra”, they can drive more traffic and make more pennies. Pennies turn into dollars which turn into Benjamins, and you get the picture. However, this doesn’t work very well for the spammers.
While most of the blogging platforms include comments and do send links, they include a little piece of code that prevents linkbacks. It’s called a “nofollow” link. It tells Google not to count a link as a linkback. Google doesn’t follow the link, so that website isn’t given any benefit. It’s an optional setting, but it is turned on for professional blogs as well as Blogger.com and WordPress.com hosted blogs. We don’t use nofollow links on this blog so that we can pass along benefits to our commenters. However, spammers don’t know that we do this, and they don’t seem to care much either way. Even with nofollow links, the spammers will still attack your site. Now that we know the why, lets look into the “what” of comment SPAM.
What Comment SPAM looks like
Most people can identify the obvious SPAM very quickly. It is riddled with links to ED drugs or other pharmaceuticals, or in some cases it is written in Russian. This kind of SPAM is automated by the spammers and can be caught by filters. The other types of SPAM are much harder to identify. They look more like real comments. Here is an example (the link doesn’t work):
From Investment Ideas: Great Post! I stumble by this blog from Google and your content really speaks to me. You are an expert in your field and this post is proof. I am now subscribing to read more.
At first glance this looks like a very nice comment. It is probably one you would be proud to have at the bottom of your posts. Unfortunately, it is SPAM. The “name” of the commenter is used as a keyword to create a linkback to the URL, which in this case is also about investment ideas. The text sounds very nice, but it would probably sound very nice on any of your posts. These types of comments have a few things in common, and you can become a pro at identifying it and removing it.
How to Identify and Stop SPAM
Unfortunately, this kind of SPAM is not caught by the filters because it looks genuine. In many cases it is even entered by a real person (often overseas). They copy/paste a snippet on many sites as fast as possible. But, you can spot it when moderating your comments. Here is three-item test to identify the tricky SPAM:
The name looks like a description and not really a person’s name. In the example, it is Investment Ideas.
The link goes to a site very similar to the name. It may also include several hyphens, which are sometimes used in spam URLs.
The text of the comment is very generic. It doesn’t reference anything in the post and can probably apply to almost any of your posts.
Those three quick tests can help you to identify most comment SPAM. After reviewing the fake comment above, you will see that it includes all three of the regular pieces of SPAM comments. You may come across some comments that just say “Great Post!”. To determine if these are SPAM you should pay close attention to the name and link. If it is a person’s name and goes to a personal site or blog (like JMO), then it is probably not SPAM.
You will have to use your own discretion when deciding which comments are SPAM on your blog. Comments are great places to have a bit of further discussion about posts. They can add to the “conversation” in many cases, so blocking SPAM is even more important to keep the conversation fluid. While comment SPAM can’t hurt you directly, it can look ugly on your blog.
While some sites have turned off comments all together to prevent this, you may still want to keep comments on your site. Using nofollow links can help prevent the spammers from gaining anything with their garbage, but it will still pile up in the back and can clutter your real comments. Moderating your comments regularly and having a keen eye for SPAM can protect your site from the evils of comment SPAM.
UPDATE:
I have decided it to let the SPAM comments show up on this post so you can see some examples of what we get. I will neuter them by removing the link, but the text and name of the commenter will be left alone (unless it’s profane). Our first winner is “Affiliate Network”.
UPDATE 2:
Many more SPAM comments have rolled in to the mix. I’ve removed links on all of them, but the text gives you an idea of what they may look like on your site.
Katie Laird – Communications Manager + Cupcake Lover
Jonti Bolles – All Star SEM Manager + Fitness Geek
David Stagg – Creative Guru + David Beckham lookalike
JJ Lassberg – Brilliant Brilliant Project Manager + Earth Mama
Courtney Pemberton – Sales Gal Extraordinaire + All Around Peppy Gal
Caitlin Kaluza – Social Media Project All Star + Cat Lover With a Wii Problem
