Photo courtesy of Travis Okimoto

A Technology Expo Here At Home

Photo courtesy of Travis Okimoto

Photo courtesy of Travis Okimoto

Technology News Bytes presents the 2012 Technology Expo for Business and Consumers Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Neal Blaisdell Exhibition Hall.

I’m used to attending the big name out-of-state expos, but it’s always nice to see a technology expo right here in our backyard. This is one of the largest expos in the state of Hawaii, and this year’s free show will showcase a diversity of innovative technology practices and products that include energy technology, wireless/mobile and consumer electronics, services and products, gaming, social media and more.

The Exhibitor area will have a wide range of vendors showcasting/selling technology-related products and services. The Technology Startup Corner (sponsored by Startup Hawaii and The Box Jelly) will have resources available to startup business owners and entrepreneurs interested in creating their own startups. A live Kickstarter section where new startups can raise funds will be present, as well as a “Shark Tank”-style startup judging contest, where investors will be judging and evaluating businesses for potential investment.

The Career section will feature staffing companies including Bishop & Co., Staffing Solutions and others, providing education opportunities and prospec tive employers. There also will be a Gaming section with a League of Legends tournament and interactive technology, along with other entertainment technology vendors.

In addition, The Hawaii Social Media Summit, the only annual event of its kind in Honolulu, will focus on the latest in social media trends, with speaking sessions by some of the nation’s most talented social media experts (two individuals off Forbes’ Top 50 Social Media Power Influencers, Mike O’Neil and Lori Ruff).

This summit will educate you on the latest social media techniques for business and will highlight local social media campaigns and standout local social media personalities. Although admission to the expo is free, this Media Summit costs $100 (plus a $6.49 fee); visit hisum-mit2012.eventbrite.com to purchase your ticket.

See you all next week!


Click Chick’s Mobile App of the Week: Travel+Leisure Tripeze

Since I’m sitting in an airport as I write this, travel is top of mind, so I feel the need to share the Travel+Leisure Tripeze app. In my waiting-around boredom, I’ve already made great use of my time and learned some great tips from this app.

Not only can you learn about places, but you also can track and share your experiences – anything from a walk around the neighborhood to a drive across the country. This is perfect for those looking for off-the-beaten path things to do.

After picking your destination, the map will give you hidden gems and interesting spots to peek at along your journey, along with some pretty pictures. As you’re traveling, it also will tip you on some good eats with hole-in-the-wall restaurants, must-see sights and everything you cannot miss.

Additionally, the app gives you the ability to create a map of your trip and share it with your friends. This is a free download from the iTunes App Store (sorry, Android users, this is an iPhone app only).