On Tue, 27 Jun 2000 14:40:31 -0400 (EDT) William Donzelli
<aw288_at_osfn.org> writes:
> So what? At least some people can afford to go. For a lucky few, it
> might just be a short trip in the car. Better a few than none...
If you can afford it, go. My point is that despite organized
efforts, not everyone will have access (for various reasons).
This isn't the promoter's fault; it's usually a matter of
geography.
> How about real museums?
Nice, but individual ownership is a much more valuable experience
(to the individual). Not possible once these systems become
'Museum Pieces'.
> How about speadiung knowledge - informing the public and each
> other about the history?
We have forums like this one. But I guess you'll *need* an
'official' organization now: It's becomming apparent that only
certain opinions are now considered 'acceptable'.
> How about saving hardware and software that is out of the reach
> af any individual?
Groups of caring individuals have always worked together towards
this end. In the past, the money wasn't a motivation. I don't
know if this will reman the case in the future.
> How about professional recognition?
I always figured that the real {hobbyists | enthusiasts} weren't
(by definition) 'professionals'. The original developers? Write
one a letter, thanking them for their contribution. I did.
How about security for our collections?
Keep your {door|gate|porticullis} locked.
> > And I'm saying, all you will be doing is raising the cost of
> > admission. There's nothing anyone can do to stop you, of course.
> > If Classic Computing becomes a 'legitimate' hobby with a
> 'legitimate'
> > organization, then I guess there won't be room for amateurs
> > like myself. You professional 'true historical preservationists'
> > can have it.
>
> Jeff, take your stinking attitude and get out of town. Please. The
> one thing that hurts retrocomputing more than anything else is someone
> like you.
You know, I could get really angry at this last remark, but it just
makes me sad. (Retro)computing was a 'joy' thing. It was so
awesome because just about anyone could experience it. It was
really something special because it's only major cost was the time
and effort you put into it.
What really mattered was what came from the heart, really.
What really matters now, is what comes from the wallet.
I guess it really wasn't so special afterall.
Bye.
Jeff
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Received on Tue Jun 27 2000 - 16:10:11 BST