Local business sponsors free PC contest

GRAND BLANC — A local have a chance to win a new computer, thanks to a program by J.J. Cardinal’s Wild Nature Store of Grand Blanc.

An XO Laptop, like the ones purchased by J.J. Cardinals earlier this year Earlier this year J.J. Cardinal's bought two XO Laptop Computers from the One Laptop Per Child Foundation (OLPC project). One computer was given to a child in a developing country somewhere in the world, in hopes it would provide them with access to knowledge and the opportunity to explore, experiment and express themselves.

The second XO Laptop will be given by J.J. Cardinal's to local child as a way to help promote this important project.

important project.

Children up to age 8 may enter to receive this laptop personal computer by submitting an essay, 100 words or less, on how they will use the computer to learn and help others.

These rugged computers use flash

memory instead of a hard

drive, and operate on much

less power than traditional

laptops. XO comes with a

Linux operating system and runs software designed for

education. The keyboard is spill-proof and the swiveling green "ears" on the side of the monitor contain

a powerful built-in WiFi

antenna for wireless connection.

“We feel the XO is

an awesome, potent

learning tool designed and built especially for younger children,”

said Louise Dawson, owner of J.J. Cardinal’s. To learn more

about this contest stop by J.J. Cardinal’s or visit online at: www.cardinal.com/olpc.htm. — G.G.