Dixie Fix

Is Facebook the New Office Water Cooler?

Since becoming "funemployed" last March (has it really been almost a year?) several people still working have asked me if I miss the camaraderie of an office. I thought I would -- I really did -- but Facebook has filled that need.

I was a reluctant convert to FB, not really "getting" the point; several friends and relatives were on it and suggested I give it a try. It's about as hard to explain the lure of FB as Twitter, but I'll try...

The obvious is I keep up daily with a number of the older grandkids. I know how the Kauai grandson is doing in college in Southern California; how his brother was running the Honolulu Marathon (with my daughter posting photos and comments along his way); how 9 year old Bleu sees the world; and what our adult children are up to.

Then, there's the connections. Eric Tunison, my third-grade boyfriend, found me on FB! So have dozens of high school friends and various people from my past that I'd lost touch with. A reporter who worked for me more than 20 years ago found a typo in a post I wrote and said he's been waiting 20 years for that! My childhood next door neighbors have reconnected as well.

My current friends and neighbors offer up all kinds of info on their worlds as well. I knew that Lisa's baby was going to be a boy because they posted that when they left the doctor's office. I know which neighbors are on vacation and who their housesitter is.

Take that stew and throw in friends around the world; KVMR DJ's promoting upcoming shows; businesses telling me what's new and on sale; pages for Weight Watchers with diet and exercise tips and discussion boards.

Then there's the collective advice factor. I have nearly 500 people as FB friends, and any question is quickly answered by several of them. Kind of like Google, but with people you know making recommendations. Julie used that plumber and was happy with him? OK, sold.

The communication between friends can either be public (writing on their "wall") or private in a message that only they see. It's easier to message people on FB than sorting through different e-mail addresses.

So, all this stuff is not essential to my life. But, like the old image of the office water cooler, it's a great place to hang out for a few minutes and glean all sorts of interesting information.

Not on Facebook? It's easy to get connected. And while you're there, friend me!

What the Heck is Sierra Commons, Anyway?

5 W's and an H:

Well, first of all, let's answer the journalistic questions of Who, What, Where, When and Why. "Who" is Robert Trent? He's a marketer. but much more than that. He's one of those guys who decides to do something -- and just does it! As opposed to the rest of us who talk incessantly about doing things, which is easier than actually accomplishing something.

"What" is Sierra Commons, a "business incubator" and co-working environment. Robert has rented the expansive 3rd floor of The Stonehouse for this venture, which can be shared space for a minute, a month, or whatever floats your boat. Think about $250 a month, or $20 a day.

"Where" is The Stonehouse, corner of Broad & Sacramento. No longer a restaurant if you've been living in a cave. (But a Culinary Hospitality Acedemy is conveniently located in the restaurant/kitchen, so catering is at your fingertips.)

"When" is like, now. It's up and running, with, I think about 4 desk/tenants. The guys (no women there yet) are a fascinating bunch and span the spectrum from software design to gaming design. The gamer, Todd, worked a bit on Guitar Hero, which puts him at Superstar status among certain grandchildren.

"Why" is a little trickier...see first paragraph. There seems to be a market for this concept. I talked to Ken, who worked at home and was bothered by all the distractions. He works here, gets more done and is among like-minded people -- plus right downtown Nevada City (with parking!) Location, location, location!

There is also a conference room (nice!) that can be rented for $60 an hour. Tenants and non profits get half price, which is nice.

I don't think Robert minds drop in visitors; I would suggest you check it out if you're curious. I just love that Nevada City supports this idea -- 4 of the 5 councilmembers and the city manager were all there last night -- and I think it's a perfect fit for our cute little town.

Quote of the evening: Overheard near the wine bar -- "High tech is SO 1980s!"

And Then There's Facebook...

All of my grandkids are on My Space. and I thought all the other kids (college age?) were on Facebook. Well, some time when I wasn't looking, the grown ups took over Facebook! It's true. I can't believe how many people I have found..or have found me. It's like a worldwide reunion where if someone creepy comes toward you, you can disappear! (You just don't accept their friend request and they can't have a dialogue with you.) Is this replacing talking to people? Not at all. But it is a social networking way to easily connect with tons of people quickly.

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I have some strange flu-like thing today. I have slept the entire day...now worried I will have insomnia tonight.