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B. Tyler Margison | b.Tm | btyler | The B.eaT.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Reality Checkmate: a project

During my Business Information Technology class, I recently discovered a program called "One Laptop Per Child". Though this is a fairly young program (began in 2005), I have only now found out about it.

The program is based around giving children in underprivileged countries the opportunity to learn through the use of prototype laptop computers, called the XO-1. These computers, though being made and marketed to children, are actually incredibly powerful. They provide low-power usage, sunlight readability, and easy internet connectivity.

Upon hearing about these laptops, I began to think of a new project for myself. With only my guitar and an XO-1 laptop, I would travel the country, whether by foot, by train, or by hitchhiking. I would play music for my money, use the laptop to document my journey, and in the process of it all, write music for my new CD. But above all, I could see the country and really find myself.

The prerequisite pricing for this project is probably lower than any other I've tried recently. Unfortunately, the OLPC website is no longer providing the "Give One, Get One" program, which enabled you to purchase two laptops, receiving one for yourself, and sending one to a child in any given country. The only ones available are online, specifically on eBay.

I've found an auction that is selling two laptops for $300 (not including shipping), both of which I would receive. This would enable me to (a) sell the other for profits to begin my journey, or (b) take someone along with me on my journey.

Depending on who would be willing and/or able to go, Kaitlyn would obviously be given the first opportunity, followed by my brother, Zach, with whom I would want to share the experience, then my father, who could use the photographic opportunity, and my dorm neighbor, Matt, whom I feel would enjoy the adventure and would be able to provide musical assistance. No offense to anyone else, but they are the ones who I feel would benefit most from this.

My journey cannot necessarily begin immediately. First and foremost, I want and need to finish this semester, at least, before I can even begin any larger plans. Who knows, by the time I begin really preparing for my journey, the "Give One, Get One" service may be active again.

I am not asking for anything this time, I'm simply stating my project. I know that my past few project ideas have been rather wild (I still want to be a superhero, by the way), but I feel very strongly about this one.

Hopes and prayers are needed more than anything right now. Wish me luck.

Sincerely,
B. Tyler Margison

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