New cybercommunity needs residents
International organization forms local chapter

by Danielle Davis
PRGrrl

Webgrrls find a home in Houston. An organization that started over coffee amidst the hustle and bustle of New York in 1995 has made its way into the iced tea, heat and humidity of the Gulf Coast.
Designed to provide a unique forum for women interested and involved in new media and technology, it offers members a place to network and educate themselves along the Information Superhighway.
According to Pointgrrl Kristi Sadler, Creative Director for Internet Software Technologies and leader of the group, her goal is to create a thriving chapter of Webgrrls International in Houston.
“With a city population of over 4.8 million people, we believe this a great place to nurture women interested in technology and new media,” Sadler said. “By networking with each other and helping each other, we can all be more successful. And, we also want to train the next generations of girls and let them know there is a place for them in the technology industry.”
“Currently, we are actively recruiting for members,” she said. “I know there is a large contingent of women here in Houston that are involved in new media. I encourage them to join our chapter. Membership is free and we would love to have them.”
Founded by Aliza Sherman, the Webgrrls organization now includes a chapter in every major city of the United States and such far away places as Manila, Philippines; West Indies, Barbados; and Christchurch, New Zealand.
With so much to do and so little time, an active listserv keeps the members together between meetings. Karen Carnes, or Membergrrl as she is known in cyberspace, keeps the member roster active and organized. “The listserv allows members to discuss topics of interest and solicit each others assistance without excessive forwarding to individual members,” Carnes said. “Additionally, it allows us to keep in contact with other Webgrrl chapters and find out information.”
Recently, the members abandoned their email to attend the Houston Chapter’s first Summer of Pancakes breakfast meeting. “We held our first breakfast meeting at a restaurant called Le Peep,” Sadler said. “It was a great meeting where we learned where everyone worked and talked about our roles and interests in technology.”
Details about upcoming breakfast meetings can be found at the Houston Webgrrls web site. In addition to meetings, the Houston Webgrrls are in the process of developing a virtual member roster, a chat schedule and revamping the web site.
Further information can be found out through the chapter’s web site: Houston WebGrrls or send email.

Grilling tips to get you through the summer

(ARA) -- Grilling reaches its zenith during the long, lusty days of summer. And for good reason. There is no simpler way to embrace the warmth and good-natured flow of the season than by gathering with friends and family for a flavorful outdoor feast. Whether it's steak seared to perfection or chicken and shrimp kabobs cooked to succulent tenderness, the art of grilling can make -- or break -- your meal. Here are some tips to see you through from start to finish.

Preparing the Grill
Clean your grate with a wire grill brush, loosening particles of food from past use. For a more thorough cleaning, spray with oven cleaner or wash with soapy water, and rinse thoroughly. Before grilling, apply vegetable oil to the grate or coat it with a non-stick cooking spray, and open any vents on the bottom of your grill.

Lighting Your Fire
Arrange your briquettes in a pyramid shape and cover evenly with approximately two ounces of lighter fluid. Light carefully and let the coals heat until they are covered with a light gray ash. When the coals are ready, spread them into a single layer and preheat your cooking grate by placing it four to six inches above the heat source.

Preparing and Grilling Your Food
Trim excess fat from your meats to prevent sudden flare-ups. To ensure more even cooking, bring foods to room temperature before placing them on the grill. To sear -- a fast, high-temperature cooking method that seals in natural juices -- leave the grill uncovered. A covered grill will impart a smokier flavor to the food. If convenience is an issue try packet cooking, a grilling method that allows you to steam foods quickly over high heat and keep clean up to a minimum. Simply place your seasoned meat and/or vegetables on a square of heavy-duty aluminum foil, and, leaving room for heat circulation inside, bring the sides and ends up and double fold. An ideal way to customize individual meals, packet dishes are easy to prepare in advance and transport to another grilling location.

Finally, you'll want to invest in the right tools. A pair of tongs and a spatula are indispensible, and a grilling basket is great for cooking fish and vegetables.

Now you're ready to don your apron and let the grilling begin!

Courtesy of Article Resource Association