From the September 1995 Bits of Blue newsletter

SECRETARY'S REPORT

TPCUG MEETING 8/9/95, 6 PM
HCC Ybor Room Auditorium

Minutes and Comments by Bruce Register, Secretary

President Bruneau (Harvey) called the meeting to order. Miscellaneous comments and information were given: Harvey Bruneau shared Hurricane Erin preparedness. He stressed the importance of being serious about equipment and data. Losses can occur from wind, storm, rain, or sprinkler systems; or maybe even static electricity in the building through the metal superstructure or conduits. He emphasized backup systems. UPS and dedicated plugs are just some of the terms that have familiarity.

Planning is required for most ongoing systems before making a cold splash into W95. Some of your previous applications may not run in W95 without adding this or that software that you previously had within your software system. Some may elect to increase hard drive capacity so as to accommodate a dual boot, W95 and Windows 3.11. W95 will only run on Intel or clones. Other platforms give one an opportunity for other considerations. Many interesting opinions were expressed regarding many applications. (Secretary's opinion—Some people seemed to be polarized toward W95 or OS/2 Warp. Sometimes these strong opinions become almost argumentive as emotional preference is aggressively manifested. Our president, Harvey, seems to be exceptional at keeping peace while allowing everyone their say. One of the many benefits of TPCUG is the openness of the expressions by the members. We are exposed to other viewpoints. We are then able to have better understanding before making decisions). Much open and frank dialogue permeated the meeting. Several members stated that they thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated the broad participation. Several expressed opinions regarding the future of the computer world. All comments were enlightening and confidence builders. Someone suggested that TPCUG could set up a 286 in a retirement facility to fulfill the desire to provide community service. Volunteers are needed to do it; suggestions such as this are great and hopeful but "we need doers" according to one opinion. The conversation by individual members reflected enthusiasm during the break. One member stated the "refreshing sight to see pairs, threes, etc., groups exchanging information, assistance and fellowship." Sharing info and ideas are just one of the great benefits of TPCUG, Harvey stated.

Harvey reported that GTE has offered to present ISDN at their downtown GTE building. More later as plans develop. Several members responded with delight. Look for messages on the bulletin board. Some members have avoided using the TPCUG BBS. Do not hesitate to try it. You cannot break it. You cannot hurt it. You will enjoy the experience. If you have stage fright, just call one of those most willing helpers listed in the back of the BITS OF BLUE. Any of them will be glad to talk you through the access. In helping me, they have even "fired up" their own computer while talking to me over the phone. They would ask "Do you see......"? etc. They really like to assist you. Do not hesitate! Miscellaneous comments were "stay away from 5 volts and 60 Pentium", "Lotus Approach is better than ACCESS", "Be prepared to upgrade; but you may continue with your present system and may not need to go to the latest technology. If you need it; do it. If you do not need it; you might want to consult your pocketbook before jumping in." Other comments were also appreciated.

PRESENTATION: Tom Cone, Treasurer, shared a tool that he finds useful. Creator, V6.0, writes programs. It is a "code generator". It is not particularly sophisticated and is very easy to use. Tom presented highlights of the program rather than giving detailed training. He likes the program and uses it in building report programs. You tell it what kind of information you want to track and the type of screen you want. Creator then builds the program. You add fields as you desire. Creator is a commercial program that sells for $99 MOL (More or Less).

CONGRATULATIONS TO DOOR PRIZE WINNERS:

Pagekeeper -  Steve Schoeneck
CD Murder Mystery - Wil Goble

The next regular meeting of TPCUG will be Wednesday, September 13, 1995, 6 PM at Ybor Room, Administrative Building, Ybor City HCC. Come and bring someone, your spouse, pharmacist, neighbor or friend, etc. u