Photoshop #3 - "Rooftop Rainbow View"

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Photoshop #2 - "Dreams Do Come True"

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Photoshop #1 -"Only Green"

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Google Maps Goes Indoors

          We all know we can turn to Google Maps to get a bird's eye view of just about anywhere on the planet, but now Google is taking things a step further. A new mapping system update which debuted Tuesday means people no longer only have access to view the rooftops of buildings - they actually have access to view what's inside them. According to an Associated Press release from November 29, 2011, which can be found on the Chicago Tribune's website, the new database contains floor plans for a number of malls, stores, airports, and transportation centers in the United States and Japan, including the Mall of America. 

          There are many limitations to the new system, including the fact that this feature is only available on Android smartphones and tablets, a market Google has much at stake in. The company has given no word on whether it plans to expand this service to Apple and other mobile devices, though it definitely does plan to expand the number of store and center listings available. It is possible that in the future, people will no longer look at posted maps in malls or stores to find where they are; they'll just pull out their phones. 

Google Music

          Many people use Google for its web, news, and image functions on a daily basis, but what about for downloading music? In that arena, Apple's iTunes tends to take the lead; however, after the official launch of "Google Music" this past Wednesday, the online music landscape may be be changing. 

          So, how is this program unique from all the other digital music services out there? According to an article written by Scott Steinberg for Rolling Stone magazine, it will be integrated into the Google+ social network, and will be available on Android cell phones, just as iTunes is available on the iPhone. It is unique because it allows cloud technology to be used for music storage, unlike iTunes, where music is generally stored on a mobile device or computer. The article also explains that Google Music plans to offer a free daily song, which goes a few steps beyond iTunes's free weekly song. Record labels such as EMI, Sony, and Universal have made deals with Google to be a part of this service, and extra content such as live concert recordings are also talked of being offered. Only time will tell whether Google Music will surpass iTunes as the next big thing, or if it will just be another outlet in a saturated market. 

Google Gives Back to Vets

Image from google.com

         In honor of this Veterans Day (which is being considered extraordinary because of the date being 11/11/11), Google's Doodle (the term for when the site incorporates its logo into a design on special occasions) is a picturesque painting-style image of a tree with a yellow ribbon representing the "L"  while the rest of the letters are wispy clouds in a blue sky. 

          An ABC news report today by Ned Potter identifies the artist of this watercolor as Google staff member Michael Dutton, whose dad is a Vietnam veteran. The report also explains that this painting is to raise awareness for a new project Google is working on to connect veterans with each other and their families after service. More information on the project can be found at http://www.googleforveterans.com/. Part of it will be a special section of the Google+ social network called "Vet Connect." This feature is highly anticipated by vets who are looking to gain contact with fellow comrades from their battle lines.

          I think Google's plan is a fantastic one. With all the ways people use the internet for bad or just superficial things, this is an example of how the internet can actually make a positive difference in people's lives. My fear is that older vets who may not have technology skills or equipment might be left out, but I would hope that Google would find ways to include them perhaps through local libraries. I see this idea as one that other companies may want to and should get involved in, in the future. It is important for us to stop and remember all those who have served for us, and Google is showing that even the simplest doodle can raise awareness and contemplation. 

STJ Women's Volleyball vs. Pittsburgh

          The St. John's Volleyball Team versed the Pittsburgh Panthers in Carnesecca Arena on Friday, November 4. The game was an intense one, as the set winning went back and forth, with St. John's losing the first, winning the second, losing the third, and winning the fourth. It was because of this that the game needed to go to a fifth set, which would be won by 15 points instead of the usual 25. Unfortunately, the Johnnies weren't able to pull off a win, but below is a video I took at the game of an exciting play. (You can even see Johnny Thunderbird dancing at one point!)