Author Archives: David Berkowitz, Editor in Chief.

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IK Multimedia Releases AmpliTube 3.0 for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch

IK Multimedia. Musicians First. IK
For Immediate Release:
IK Multimedia Releases AmpliTube 3.0 for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch
  The complete mobile guitar studio adds timeline audio editing and new models
May 30, 2013  –  IK Multimedia, the leader in mobile music-creation apps and accessories, is proud to announce the new version of the highly acclaimed AmpliTube® App, which now adds a complete multi-track Studio with timeline audio editing and new gear models, making it the most comprehensive guitar and audio production app available. Now users can play, practice, compose and record complete songs from start to finish, anywhere inspiration strikes, on theiriPhone, iPad and iPod touch.
The new release of AmpliTube completely changes the game for mobile music production and offers everything musicians need to quickly and easily record complete songs: a full guitar/bass rig; a multi-track recorder with effects; a new timeline audio editing suite for arranging, editing, mixing and mastering; a built-in programmable drummer; professional export features for sharing creations with the world; and the possibility to work simultaneously with other audio apps.
When used with the IK Multimedia iRig® line of guitar interfaces (like the new high-quality iRig HD, iRig STOMP or the iRig adapter), microphone products (like iRig Mic or iRig PRE) AmpliTube 3.0 provides an all-in-one solution with unmatched sound quality, guitar tone, recording flexibility and ease of use for the professional mobile musician.
 
The New AmpliTube Studio— Timeline Audio Editing Suite
The newest feature in AmpliTube 3.0 is the Studio, where users will see their audio tracks on a timeline with a waveform display, much like they are used to on their DAW (digital audio workstation) software on their computer. Audio regions can be manipulated with a full set of commands and controls: cut, copy, paste, delete, normalize, split (at playhead), create fades and crop clips. 
 
Clips can easily be moved and adjusted with a simple gesture for precise alignment with other clips, and a grid feature provides “snapping” of regions to the timeline for easy positioning. Recording into a track is as simple as touching it, arming it and hitting record. AmpliTube Studio makes recording, arranging, editing and perfecting a complete song from start to finish a breeze, and once again revolutionizes the way musicians create on the go.
 
The new Studio is an extension of the AmpliTube recorder,which starts as a single-track recorder, and can be expanded to 4-track (iPhone/iPod touch) or 8-track (iPad) putting a full multi-track recorder with mastering effects the fingertips of the user. The multi-track recorder has features rivaling even the most sophisticated studio setups, like effects send and master multi-effects, which can add that professional feel to any recording. The recorder with the new Studio section is designed to allow players to quickly and easily get their musical ideas recorded, polished and ready for prime time.
 
A Complete Guitar Rig with New Gear
At its core, AmpliTube continues to be all about outstanding guitar and bass tone, and offers a full guitar/bass rig including tuner; selectable stomp box effects; amplifiers from the world’s top amp manufacturers like Fender®, Ampeg®, and Soldano®; collections from artists like Jimi Hendrix™, Slash and others; plus selectable speaker cabinets and microphones. 
 
Exclusively for iRig HD users, AmpliTube 3.0 now also offers four new free gear models that address the tone needs of the most demanding metal and rock players — the Metal 150 and Metal W amps, and the X-Flanger and Wharmonator “Whammy” pedals. Never before has such a massive and comprehensive collection of tone machines been offered to mobile guitarists, right at their fingertips. 
 
A Drummer Always in the Pocket
With AmpliTube’s built-in Loop Drummer, players will always have a professional drummer with them. Loop Drummer features complete groove “building blocks,” including intros, fills, main and alternate rhythms, and outros. It’s extremely flexible and easy to use, and covers virtually every style of music. Start with the free Rock style installed, and add more genre packs via in-app purchase, covering most musical styles, including Metal, Funky, Blues, and many others. 
 
The Perfect Rehearsal Tool
AmpliTube also features a robust Song section that allows you to load pre-recorded material into it, change the tempo and/or pitch if desired, and practice along. This is a great tool for learning new material, or simply creating new riffs over existing material by using the “No Voice” center-cancel button that mutes audio panned to the center of the stereo field. 
 
Supports Other Favorite Mobile Music Apps
AmpliTube is also Audiobus compatible, which means that it can be used simultaneously with up to 4 other compatible audio apps. Players can use other IK apps like SampleTank®, iLectric™ Piano or iGrand™ Piano; record material directly into the AmpliTube recorder or studio section; or use the AmpliTube signal chain as a tone generator, effects processor or recorder for other apps like GarageBand.
 
Price and Availability
AmpliTube 3.0 is a free update for all previous users and it’s available now on the App Store both as a free or paid app for iPhone/iPod touch or iPad for only $19.99 for new users. The new Studio feature is available as in-app purchase for $9.99 on iPhone and iPod touch and $14.99 on iPad for users who have already purchased the multi-track recorder, or at a special bundle price that includes also the multi-track recorder for new users.
 
The four new gear models are exclusively available to iRig HD interface users, through simply connecting the interface to the app.
 
 
For more information: 
 
 
www.irighd.com

Watch the video for AmpliTube Studio and share!

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My family and I saw the Screening for–>After Earth Official Trailer #1 (2013) – Will Smith Movie HD

Yesterday my family, 3 autistic kids, wife and I went and saw the screening for Will Smith’s After Earth Official. I love science fiction and have always liked Will Smith in his movies such as Men In Black 1, 2 and 3. I think that his best is Independence day.

This movie was more about his son being the featured performer, Jaden Smith. I think that he did a great job with the movie.

I would definitely recommend going to see the movie. It was a bit scarey for one of my autistic kids, but the other 2 liked it. I would not take kids under 12 either.

The movie was also a collaboration with M. Night Shyamalan, who is quite talented in his genre or movie making.

Here is the official trailer for the movie–>

Watch this video on YouTube.

Here is the official website for the movie as well–> http://www.afterearth.com/site/

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Caterpillar Enters the Fray with a New Rugged, Waterproof Android Phone!

While at CTIA 2013 I had the opportunity to attend a media event where I ran into the folks with Bullitt Mobile who via a partnership with Cat, the heavy Equipment people just recently announced an exciting new rugged Android phone called the B15.

Watch this video on YouTube.

According to all things Digital:
http://allthingsd.com/20130520/caterpillar-aims-to-make-splash-with-rugged-waterproof-android-phone/

Caterpillar is best known for making heavy equipment, but the machinery brand thinks it can add something to the phone business.

Cat has partnered with Bullitt Mobile, a British electronics firm that builds products using well-known brands to develop a rugged, waterproof Android phone.
The easiest way to make phones rugged is to just wrap them in a ton of rubber. But that also makes them big and bulky — something Floyd said his group was looking to avoid.
“It’s got to be a great phone — something that everybody would feel comfortable carrying,” said Dave Floyd, director of technology for Bullitt.
The result of their work is the Cat B15, a phone that is debuting at the CTIA trade show in Las Vegas and will sell for $349 without subsidies. The device packs a 4-inch screen, a dual-core MediaTek processor and the Jelly Bean version of Android into a device capable of surviving a 6 foot drop onto concrete and withstanding up to 30 minutes in 3 feet of water.
Its screen is also designed to work with a wet finger — something that trips up most smartphones. And all that in a phone that weighs just under six ounces.
Bullitt isn’t talking carriers yet, but it’s a GSM phone with support for HSPA+ networks, so either AT&T or T-Mobile USA would be a good fit.

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Tech Reviews:IK Multimedia announces iKlip 2 and iKlip Studio for iPad mini now available

For Immediate Release:
IK Multimedia announces iKlip 2 and iKlip Studio for iPad mini now available   Now positioning any iPad or iPad mini on stage, in the studio, in the office or at home is easier than ever
May 16, 2013  –  IK Multimedia, the leader in mobile music-creation apps and accessories, is shipping the new range of its smart iPad holders for stage, studio, office or home. The new iKlip™ 2 for iPad, and for iPad mini, are enhanced versions of the most popular iPad microphone stand holders for musicians and presenters, while iKlip Studio for iPad mini completes the range of IK’s practical tabletop stands for 7” tablets.
iKlips for iPads from IK Multimedia
All the new iKlips are made in Italy from durable-but-light thermoplastic, and sport a sleek industrial design. Although the new ergonomically designed iKlip models were created with musicians in mind, they are also perfect for business presentations and speeches; educational, video and camera applications; health or kiosk-type information systems and everyday use in the office, at home or on the road.
Here are the new models:
iKlip 2 is designed to securely hold an iPad 2 (and later) or an iPad mini on a microphone stand or other vertical or horizontal “pole” up to 2.1”/30mm in diameter. It secures to the pole in seconds with a sure-grip tightening system, leaving the threaded end of the stand open for other uses. iKlip 2 features a new ball-joint design that gives it amazing flexibility for infinite multi-angle adjustment and positioning with a simple touch. It can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally to find just the right viewing angle, and can be quickly rotated between portrait and landscape mode. The new iKlip 2 is available in two models: for the regular iPad and for the new iPad mini.
The new iKlip 2 adapters offer the ultimate in safe, secure holding of iPad and iPad mini at the optimum required viewing angle, and they are perfect for hands-free viewing and use with any type of apps and accessories, leaving all the iPad buttons and ports free from obstructions.
Sing with iRig Mic and VocaLive on your iPad attached to iKLIP 2iKlip 2 applications are countless, and range from holding iPads for musicians on stage to teleprompter-style presentations on boardroom podiums; from securing the iPad anywhere for video and camera applications to mounting it as a multimedia display; from keeping the iPad on hand for order taking or form entry to using it in health care environments, as well as a multitude of other uses.
iRig Mic with Klip for iPad and VocaLive
iKlip Studio for iPad mini is a new tabletop stand that follows in the footsteps of the iKlip Studio for iPad, a tabletop multi-angle holder for iPad and other 10” tablets. It offers the same great features and design, including an easily adjustable viewing angle, support for portrait or landscape mode, and the ability to fold up flat for total mobility. iKlip Studio for iPad mini can also hold other 7″ tablets such as the Kindle Fire, Galaxy Tab, and Nook, plus it can host a device with or without a case or protective cover.
iKlip Studio for iPad mini offers 8 viewing angle options in 10° increments: from a near vertical orientation to near horizontal, making it the perfect companion for any flat-surface application. It provides quick and easy set-up in seconds, and features non-slip feet that prevent unwanted movement of the device — securely holding it in place even when used with the most rigorous tap-intensive apps such as those used in music making or gaming.
iKlip Studio for iPad mini folds flat and fits easily in briefcases, carrying bags, backpacks and gig bags. With the line of IK microphones and apps like iRig MIC, iRig MIC Cast and iRig Recorder, any tablet can become an audio-capture-and-editing suite for podcasts, classroom lectures, boardroom meetings and presentations. When used with a wireless Bluetooth keyboard, the iKlip Studio for iPad mini is the perfect mobile workstation for tight spaces like airplane seats, crowded cafes, restaurants, lecture halls and library kiosks.
Pricing and Availability
The iKlip 2 for iPad and iKlip 2 for iPad mini are available now at electronic and music retailers around the world, and are both priced at $39.99 / €29.99 MSRP (excluding taxes). The iKlip Studio for iPad mini is priced at $29.99 / €24.99 MSRP (excluding taxes).
For more information, please visit:
Warm regards,
Starr Ackerman USA/CA/SA PR Manager 954-846-9101
IK Multimedia. Musicians First.
About IK Multimedia: IK Multimedia is a computer music technology company that offers a diverse range of affordable and easy-to-use music production tools with great sound quality and a realistic look and feel. With over one million installations worldwide, the IK range has been adopted by musicians of every level, from beginners to professionals, to gain access to high-end, studio-quality gear from their computers or mobile devices. iKlip 2 for iPad®, iKlip 2 for iPad mini® and iKlip Studio for iPad mini® are trademarks property of IK Multimedia Production. All other product names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners, which are in no way associated or affiliated with IK Multimedia. iPad®, and iPad mini®, are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

 
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Tech News!!–>A New Competitor to Webex and Goto Meeting, They are Startmeeting.com.

While at Interop 2013 in Las Vegas I had the opportunity to meet Adam Jacobs from a new web meeting company, startmeeting dot com, a competitor to Webex and Go To meeting. It is good to have competition especially if the news guys offer a better value. Your tech reviewer David Berkowitz from technewszone!! We are also autism advocates as well, I am an aspie father of 3 with autism as well.

Watch this video on YouTube.

I was impressed by their product and technology, and are definitely a solid alternative to the big guys.

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Fuji X Series X10: Our Preliminary Review Phase 1

After receiving the box from Fuji, the first things that I noticed were the nice box and the fine design of the camera.

Here is a link to Fuji’s website to get more information on the camera as well–>

http://www.fujifilmusa.com/products/digital_cameras/x/fujifilm_x10/specifications/

Fuji X10 Box/packkaging
Fuji X10 Box/packkaging

and the contents are quite inclusive of most things that would be needed to begin using the camera.

DSCF1405

Once I had the camera out of the box I was quite impressed by its’ feel in the hand, as well as its inherent quality and how nicely it is designed.
quasl
I found that the Fujifilm X10 appears to be designed with the enthusiast or pro-sumer or even a professional; the type of user who prefers the solid feel of a magnesium alloy body and its feel in the hand as it is being used. It has the controls normally found on an SLR, rather than a point and shoot camera. It would make a great back up camera for a professional where they do not want to lug a large slr around with them. It would also be a great primary camera for many less experienced or advanced consumers too.

Fuji X10 front view
Fuji X10 front view

The LCD controls are easy to use, and easy to read even at the age of 44 I can read them and use them clearly. I like the real viewfinder that the camera has as well. Sometimes the photo is best shot through the viewfinder rather than trying to use the screen all of the time.

top controls Fuji x10

I like the built in flash, and the metal lens cap as well as the lens and its’ design. The camera reminds me of the Nikon P7200 series as well as the Canon G15 camera. It also would be a great alternative to the mirror less and 4/3’s cameras available on the market as well.

The only feature that I would like to have seen on the camera that was not present is a power switch, the camera is powered on by turning the camera lens to the on position which is unique and quite nice once I was use to it.

Here are a couple of preliminary images that I shot with the camera.

Fuji X10 close up of soda can
Fuji X10 close up of soda can
zoom shot, not flash to test the fuji x10.
zoom shot, not flash to test the fuji x10.

So Far I am impressed by the Fuji 10 Camera. I will post a follow up review of the camera once I have used it a bit more, as well as some outdoor/landscape samples, close ups and video samples taken with the camera and some long term opinions as well. I will also be using it at a trade show tomorrow and will report on its usability for that purpose as well. I will also show some of the videos taken with it as well.

Your Editor, David J. Berkowitz

Specifications from Fujifilm USA’s Website–>

Model Name X10
Number of effective pixels*1 12.0 million pixels
Image sensor 2/3-inch EXR CMOS with primary color filter
Storage media
SD / SDHC / SDXC(UHS-I) memory card*2
File format
still image
JPEG (Exif Ver 2.3)*3, RAW (RAF format), RAW + JPEG
(Design rule for Camera File system compliant / DPOF-compatible)
movie
H.264 (MOV) with Stereo sound
Number of recorded pixels L : (4:3) 4000 x 3000 / (3:2) 4000 x 2664 / (16:9) 4000 x 2248 / (1:1) 2992 x 2992
M : (4:3) 2816 x 2112 / (3:2) 2816 x 1864 / (16:9) 2816 x 1584 / (1:1) 2112 x 2112
S : (4:3) 2048 x 1536 / (3:2) 2048 x 1360 / (16:9) 1920 x 1080 / (1:1) 1536 x 1536


360° Vertical 11520 x 1624 Horizontal 11520 x 1080
180° Vertical 5760 x 1624 Horizontal 5760 x 1080
120° Vertical 3840 x 1624 Horizontal 3840 x 1080
Lens
name
Fujinon 4 x optical zoom lens
focal length
f=7.1 – 28.4 mm, equivalent to 28 – 112 mm on a 35 mm camera
full-aperture
F2.0 (Wide) – F2.8 (Telephoto)
constitution
9 groups 11 lenses (3 aspherical glass molded lenses included)
Digital zoom Intelligent digital zoom (approx. 2X)
Aperture F2.0-F11(Wide)
F2.8-F11(Telephoto) 1/3EV step (controlled 7-blade aperture diaphragm)
Focus distance
(from lens surface)
Normal
Wide : Approx. 50 cm / 1.6 ft. to infinity
Telephoto : Approx. 80 cm / 2.6 ft. to infinity
Macro
Wide : Approx. 10 cm – 3.0 m / 0.3 ft. – 9.8 ft.
Telephoto : Approx. 50 cm – 3.0 m / 1.6 ft. – 9.8 ft.
Super Macro
Approx. 1.0 cm – 1.0 m / 0.4 in. – 3.3 ft
Sensitivity Auto / Equivalent to ISO 100 / 200 / 250 / 320 / 400 / 500 / 640 / 800 / 1000 / 1250 / 1600 / 2000 / 2500 / 3200 / 4000* / 5000* / 6400* / 12800* (Standard Output Sensitivity)
* ISO4000 / 5000 / 6400 : M mode or lower, ISO12800 : S mode
Exposure control TTL 256-zones metering, Multi / Spot / Average
Exposure mode Programmed AE, Aperture Priority AE, Shutter Priority AE, Manual
Shooting modes
SP
Natural Light, Natural Light & Flash, Portrait, Portrait Enhancer, Landscape, Sport, Night, Night (Tripod), Fireworks, Sunset, Snow, Beach, Party, Flower, Text, Underwater
MODE DIAL
EXR, AUTO, P, S, A, M, C1, C2, Movie, SP, Adv.
Image stabilizer Lens shift type
Face detection Yes
Exporsure compensation -2.0EV – +2.0EV 1/3EV step
Shutter speed (Auto mode) 1/4 sec. to 1/4000* sec., (All other modes) 30 sec. to 1/4000* sec.
* 1/4000 sec. at small aperture, 1/1000 sec. at full aperture
Continuous shooting
TOP
Super High : approx. 10 fps (Size M, S)
High : approx. 7 fps (Size L, M, S)
Middle : approx. 5 fps (Size L, M, S)
Low : approx. 3 fps (Size L, M, S)
*SD memory card with a class 4 write speed (4 MB/sec.) or better is recommended.
*Maximum frame number for each continuous shooting mode is limited.
others
Best Frame capture :
Super High : approx. 10 fps 8 / 16 frames (Size M, S)
High : approx. 7 fps 8 frames (Size L, M, S) / 16 frames (Size M, S)
Middle : approx. 5 fps 8 frames (Size L, M, S) / 16 frames (Size M, S)
Low : approx. 3 fps 8 frames (Size L, M, S) / 16 frames (Size M, S)
Auto bracketing AE Bracketing : ±1/3EV, ±2/3EV, ±1EV
Film Simulation Bracketing : PROVIA / STANDARD, Velvia / VIVID, ASTIA / SOFT
Dynamic Range Bracketing : 100%, 200%, 400%
ISO Sensitivity Bracketing : ±1/3EV, ±2/3EV, ±1EV
Focus
mode
Single AF / Continuous AF (EXR AUTO, Movie),
Manual AF (One-push AF mode included)
type
TTL contrast AF, AF assist illuminator available
AF frame selection
Multi, Area, Tracking
White balance Automatic scene recognition
Preset : Fine, Shade, Fluorescent light (Daylight), Fluorescent light (Warm White), Fluorescent light (Cool White), Incandescent light, Underwater, Custom, Color temperature selection
Self-timer 10 sec. / 2 sec. delay
Flash Auto flash (super intelligent flash)
Effective range : (ISO AUTO (800))
Wide : Approx. 50 cm – 7.0 m / 1.6 ft. – 22.9 ft.
Telephoto : Approx. 80 cm – 5.0 m / 2.6 ft. – 16.4 ft.
Flash modes Red-eye removal OFF : Auto, Forced Flash, Suppressed Flash, Slow Synchro.
Red-eye removal ON : Red-eye Reduction Auto, Red-eye Reduction & Forced Flash, Suppressed Flash, Red-eye Reduction & Slow Synchro.
Hot shoe Yes
Viewfinder Optical zoom viewfinder
Approx. 85% coverage
Diopter adjustment : -3.5 – +1.5 m-1(dpt)
LCD monitor 2.8-inch, approx. 460,000 dots, TFT color LCD monitor, approx. 100% coverage
Movie recording 1920 x 1080 pixels / 1280 x 720 pixels / 640 x 480 pixels (30 frames / sec.) with stereo sound
Optical zoom (manual) can be used.
Photography functions EXR mode (EXR Auto / Resolution priority / High ISO & Low noise priority / Dynamic range priority), Face recognition, Face Detection, Auto red-eye removal, Film simulation, Framing guideline, Frame No. memory, Histogram display, Best frame capture, Advanced mode (Motion panorama360, Pro focus, Pro low light), High Speed Movie (70 / 120 / 200 frames/sec.), Electronic level, One-touch RAW, Advanced Anti Blur
Playback functions Face Detection, Auto red-eye removal, Multi-frame playback (with micro thumbnail), Protect, Crop, Resize, Slide show, Image rotate, Voice memo, Histogram display, Exposure warning, Photobook assist, Image search, Favorites, Mark for upload, Panorama, Erase selected frames, RAW conversing
Other functions PictBridge, Exif Print, 35 Languages, Time difference, Silent mode
Terminal
Video output
NTSC / PAL selectable with Monaural sound
Digital interface
USB 2.0 High-Speed
HDMI output
HDMI Mini connector
Power supply NP-50 Li-ion battery (included)
CP-50 with AC power adapter AC-5VX (sold separately)
Dimensions 117.0(W) x 69.6(H) x 56.8(D) mm / 4.6(W) x 2.7(H) x 2.2(D) in.
Weight Approx. 350 g / 12.3 oz. (including battery and memory card)
Approx. 330 g / 11.6 oz. (excluding battery and memory card)
Operating Temperature 0°C – 40°C
Operating Humidity 10% – 80% (no condensation)
Accessories included Li-ion battery NP-50
Battery charger BC-45W
Shoulder strap
Lens cap
USB cable
CD-ROM
Owner’s manual
Optional accessories Li-ion battery NP-50
Battery charger BC-45W
A / V cable AV-C1
Lens hood LH-X10
Leather case LC-X10
Shoe Mount Flash EF-42 / EF-20
AC power adapter AC-5VX
DC coupler CP-50

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My first GoPro Hero 3 Black video Driving to Down Town Las Vegas 5.1.2013

I am reviewing the Go Pro Hero 3, first I did a test of its video capabilities.

The following video is my first video filmed on it and my first attempt at using IMovie.

 

Watch this video on YouTube.

I will be doing a test video on the Fuji X10 that I am also demoing soon as well.

I will have more detailed reviews of the Go Pro Hero 3 and Fuji X10 in the next 2 weeks as well.

I appreciate the opportunity to demo Go Pro and Fuji’s products!!

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If you have Autistic or Special Needs Kids take a look at a free program offered by the Torino Foundation!!

 

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JUNE 20-23, 2013
MISSION Our focus is on alleviating the strain that an Autism diagnosis takes not only on the affected child but the child’s family. Our primary goals are to help campers build self-esteem, develop better social skills and self-expression, make and maintain friendships, improve fine motor skills, gross motor skills and sensory integration.
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ABOUT Camp I AM is our second co-ed residential summer camp program designed specifically for children ages 6 – 17 with a primary diagnosis of Autism. Camp I AM’s emphasis is ‘personal growth’.  The program is designed for children who would benefit from structure, small group dynamics and individual attention all in a private setting where the campers enjoy typical outdoor camp activities.   All campers participate in a daily rotation of non-competitive camp activities with their cabin groups.  We encourage camper participation and inspire them to reach their full potential by realizing their best is ‘the best’.  Our curriculum focuses on improving physical health, problem solving, teambuilding, starting and finishing tasks as well as many other objectives including having fun!
Free quality services are provided at Camp I AM including accommodations and meals, onsite medical support, and recreational facilities. A tasty, healthy and hearty breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served each day and snacks and beverages are provided throughout the entire program.  We also provide for the campers with special dietary needs.ELIGIBILITY Camp I AM welcomes children ages 6 – 17 with a primary diagnosis of Autism.  Camp I AM does not offer a clinical setting and therefore, cannot accept children who have a history of aggressive, abusive or violent behaviors.

PROGRAM FEATURES A unique feature of Camp I AM is the Camper Passport.  The majority of our parents are most interested in helping their child improve their social skills, learn new activities, develop a better sense of self, and to take greater responsibility for themselves.   The Camper Passport is a tool that Counselors use while at camp, to keep written record in a non-intrusive way, of each camper’s personal experience while staying with us at camp.  It’s nice to know that your quiet, softly spoken child was front and center on the stage during the camp talent show singing their heart out.  The Camper Passport is gifted to each camper’s parents after camp allowing the parents to benefit from and enjoy their child’s personal journey through Camp I AM.  Although the campers learn many new “camp” skills from participating in activities, it’s the skills that are less visible that are the most recognized when returning home.  The campers feel very empowered to share new things with their family.
Our one-to-one adult counselor to camper ratio, plus activity instructors and safety staff, allows us to work closely with each camper to provide individualized attention to their special needs. Our counselors are adults who are experienced in working with children with Autism or are pursuing a degree in special education or a related field. Each child is also assigned a non-disabled Peer Buddy. Camp I AM is run by a group of highly skilled, experienced and caring professionals who work in collaboration with our community affiliates to provide the highest quality of service to each camper.
Campers attend two – three activities in the morning and two – three activities in the afternoon. Evening activities serve as opportunities for the entire camp to come together for structured entertainment such as campfires, dances, movies, and music. Picture schedules are used throughout the day to support communication between campers and staff if needed.

OUR STAFF Torino Foundation’s camp program staff consists of dozens of individuals who are experienced with our programs and facility, many of which have been working with Torino Foundation for over ten years.
Our Volunteer counselors and Activity staff undergo intensive training to ensure they are fully equipped to meet our campers’ needs and provide them with the most enriching experiences possible.
Medical Staff stay at camp during the entire duration of the program to ensure each camper has consistency in a supportive environment.

A BIT ABOUT TORINO RANCH Nestled in the Spring Valley Mountains west of Las Vegas, Torino ranch offers a supportive environment for campers of all ages to meet other peers with critical illnesses, disabilities, or life altering situations.  The ranch is a pristine oasis with spring-fed streams, crystal clear lakes and waterfalls, and hundreds of organic fruit trees and organic gardens.  The ranch is a sparkling jewel of natural beauty complete with camper villages, lodge, amphitheater, and many other amenities.  The ranch is a playground and a sanctuary – a place of peace.  Campers have the opportunity to make friends, enjoy nature, gain self-confidence, create wonderful camp memories and develop skills for increased independence.  They can leave their worries behind while laughing, playing and enjoying life.

Here is a link to their Facebbook page–>
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Torino-Foundation/203601819672853?ref=hl

Our 3 kids are going to attend one of their autism camps and since I have not been rich lately they really wanted to go to camp at least once!!

Please help them in their efforts.

We also need help getting with our autism efforts as well, please donate instruments tablets, and services to help us to help autism!!

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Our Upcoming review of Go Pros Hero 3 and Fuji’s X Series X10

While at NAB I spoke with Fuji and Go Pro with regards to my Tech Review Site and our efforts to help people with autism. Fuji is loaning us an X10 and Go Pro is sending us a Hero 3 to evaluate and use in our efforts to help autism and to do a review.

A preview from YouTube with regards to the Fuji X10 by Fujifilm–>

Watch this video on YouTube.

A preview of the Go Pro Hero3 from Youtube as well–>

Watch this video on YouTube.

I will be doing in-depth reviews of both, and will do a 30 day test of both and will do a number of reviews of each product in the next 30 days!!!

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News: Coffee gives families with special needs chance to share

Story by Spc. Adam L. MathisSmall RSS IconSubscriptions Icon Subscribe To This Journalist

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. – Five minutes after sitting down, Angela Fields had tears in her eyes.
With 2-year-old Emma next to her, Fields told the other three women in the room how she had moved to Joint Base Lewis-McChord in October, her husband had left for a deployment and she was learning how to raise a special needs child.
“Emma has Down’s Syndrome. She’s 2. So, were just figuring it out, really,” said Fields, of Kankakee, Ill.
Fields was able to share at the first meeting of the Exceptional Family Member Program Coffee Group. Held beside the coffee shop in the AFC Arena on Jan. 10, the 10-11 a.m. gathering was designed to give people a chance to support one another through the challenges facing military families with members who have disabilities needing special care.
“Because military wives are proud of their husbands and the work that they do, … they don’t want to add that burden onto their spouse, but yet the burden … [falls] onto that family member,” said Timmy Milligan, an EFMP systems navigator.
And those with that burden need companionship. Milligan said people caring for disabled family members face a multiple challenges, including a host of doctor’s appointments, understanding the rights of the disabled and missed school for their children to attend special treatments. Without help such as what this coffee fellowship provides, these challenges can poison family life.
“Sometimes just even hearing someone else’s story makes your story doesn’t seem as bad as it could be, and also you can make friends,” said Milligan.
Such an outlet is very useful at JBLM. According to the National Military Family Association, more than 100,000 families have exceptional needs. With the base having one of a few Developmental Pediatrics clinics within the Army, many such families are drawn here, said Milligan.
The goal of the coffee group, which meets on the first Tuesday of every month, is to empower these families. Milligan said they work toward training and helping families reach a point where they know how to meet their needs, what resources are available and let the soldier go to work without worrying about his/her family.
But the goal of the coffee group is not only sharing information, but sharing about life. Camaraderie, as Milligan said, is something people who help the disabled need. It is why the conversations at the first meeting, while giving an opportunity to open up about life’s difficulties, also provided an opportunity to simply talk.
This is why Fields was able to share her story and tears.
“I enjoyed it,” said Fields after the group ended. “Just kind of having a forum to sound off about anything obviously, it’s not just about your kids, but about whatever came up in conversation.”

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