F I D O N E W S -- Vol.12 No. 1 (02-Jan-1994) +----------------------------+-----------------------------------------+ | A newsletter of the | ISSN 1198-4589 Published by: | | FidoNet BBS community | "FidoNews" BBS | | _ | +1-519-570-4176 | | / \ | | | /|oo \ | Small animal psychology and | | (_| /_) | Spiritual guidance Department: | | _`@/_ \ _ | Rev. Richard Visage 1:163/409 | | | | \ \\ | | | | (*) | \ )) | Editor: | | |__U__| / \// | Donald Tees 1:221/192 | | _//|| _\ / | Sylvia Maxwell 1:221/194 | | (_/(_|(____/ | Tim | | (jm) | Newspapers should have no friends. | | | -- JOSEPH PULITZER | +----------------------------+-----------------------------------------+ | Submission address: editors 1:1/23 | +----------------------------------------------------------------------+ | MORE addresses: | | | | Don -- don@exlibris.tdkcs.waterloo.on.ca | | Tim Pozar -- pozar@kumr.lns.com | | David Deitch -- 1:133/411.411, deitch@gisatl.fidonet.org | | | submissions=> editor@exlibris.tdkcs.waterloo.on.ca | +----------------------------------------------------------------------+ | For information, copyrights, article submissions, | | obtaining copies of fidonews or the internet gateway faq | | please refer to the end of this file. | +----------------------------------------------------------------------+ ======================================================================== Table of Contents ======================================================================== 1. Editorial..................................................... 2 2. Articles...................................................... 2 A new Echo, IM_HELP for discussions re: Intermail, the front 2 How Can We Get Users To Use The Message Bases?.............. 3 FosNet - The Freedom of Speech Net.......................... 3 MailList - Perform Mailouts to mail lists................... 4 What Is StormNet?........................................... 4 Original to: Charlie Munhollon (1:284/7).................... 8 New Canadian echo........................................... 10 Tape - Cut Tape Cassetts.................................... 11 NodeArea - Nodelist Area Code extraction.................... 11 New Echo: False Memory Syndrome............................. 12 FIDO Netmail, Why not allow users access?................... 13 Dear Reverend Visage,....................................... 14 3. Fidonews Information.......................................... 16 FidoNews 12-01 Page: 2 02 Jan 1994 ======================================================================== Editorial ======================================================================== Due to the new year and the resultant drunken parties, there is no editorial this week. ;<) ======================================================================== Articles ======================================================================== A new Echo, IM_HELP for discussions re: Intermail, the front end. by William Scott Lockwood III The new IM_HELP Echo Greetings and hallucinations! There has been much hullabaloo lately in the INTERMAIL echo. About what? Such things as E-Mail, newbies sending messages to UUCP in our little echo, and various other topics! For weeks MANY people, including one of the authors have been asking Lee Lefler the (supposed) current moderator to do something about this! So far, nothing... So now, I have decided a change is needed. What kind of a change? We need a new echo. For this purpose, I have registered a new echo tag with the Elist. This is IM_HELP. It is basically for the same purpose as the old INTERMAIL area with two notable exceptions: The first, is that there will be no unwarranted, unjustifiable notices sent to your NEC demanding a feed cut. I don't believe in this kind of childish garbage, so *I* will not do it. If you violate the spirit of the echo, you will be invited to discuss it in netmail. You will receive at least 2 warnings AFTER that fails via DIRECT netmail from me (or the current moderator.) There will be no rules to this new echo. The moderator will have final say in any disputes. The second, is that with a different area tag, the number of people posting mail to UUCP should stop! This has become a source of real irritation to all of us who actually try to use the echo for such things as support and discussion. Finally, I need YOUR help. I am the only system carrying this echo as of this writing. I feel that a change is needed for those of us who wish to discuss or debate the use of the software we have paid good money for without fending off the endless "Can I write to my aunt selma in this echo?" messages from newbies, or dealing with a moderator who stifles good discussion as soon as it starts by requesting feed cuts with out even NOTIFYING the "Offending" node that the feed cut is going to take place! We need a good forum, and I know that IM_HELP can be that forum. So ask your NEC/REC/ZEC for this echo today! Yours truly, William Scott Lockwood III IM_HELP moderator. FidoNews 12-01 Page: 3 02 Jan 1994 How Can We Get Users To Use The Message Bases? How Can We Get Users To Use The Message Bases? by Joe Shear @ 1:105/248 and yakimovs@ohsu.edu One of the biggest frustrations I have as a SysOp when it comes to users, is why won't they use the message bases? I've asked dozens of SysOps if they had any ideas on how to convince the users to use the message bases, and no one ever replied so I guess they don't read their mail either. :) Actually no one really ever had any. You can use message ratios, or ask users to post, or even offer a higher security for posting, but usually all they do is post messages saying "Hi. My name is Joe Schmoe." or something to that effect. How can we find the users who will use the message bases intelligently? Almost everyone should be able to find something they like, whether it be door game support, conspiracies, sewing, or any other hobby or subject. There's even UseNet which has conferences about everyone and everything. So does anyone have any ideas about how we can find a way to get users who will post intelligently to use the message bases? Please contact me if you do. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- FosNet - The Freedom of Speech Net F O S N E T =+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=- Have you ever wanted to join a Freedom of Speech Net? Have you ever wanted to be able to speak your mind? Have you ever wanted to join a net that is what people will like? THEN JOIN FOSNET The Freedom of Speech Net Freq 'FOSNET' from 1:105/248, /249, OR /1015 EVERY CONFERENCE IS FREEDOM OF SPEECH OPTIONAL BRE LEAGUE (FREQ 'BRE065' FROM 1:105/248, /249 or /1015) Soon To Come: Optional BRE Filebone With The Newest Utilities Optional ArrowBridge League =+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=-=+=- Remember: FREQ 'FOSNET' From 1:105/248, /249 or /1015 For Info On Joining the FREEDOM OF SPEECH NET! FidoNews 12-01 Page: 4 02 Jan 1994 MailList - Perform Mailouts to mail lists MailList.ZIP Fredric L. Rice, December 1994 The Skeptic Tank (1:102/890.0) (818) 335-9601 This program allows an individual to send network mail to a list of individuals in FidoNet and Internet, complete with the ability to FileAttach or FileRequest. (It sends Internet mail to the UUCP <==> FidoNet Gateway which you configure, dropping any FileAttach or FileRequest in doing so.) This is useful when you wish to broadcast a message to several specific individuals around the networks, send them a file, or poll them for a file. Multiple mailing lists may be configured with any number of individuals within it. Care should be exercised with the use of this program as bombing runs are considered annoying; MailList creates network messages which are addressed direct to systems with provisions for flagging them as Crash, IMMediate and DIRect. Using the program to create hundreds of messages which are then routed might be considered excessivly annoying. In addition, the program may be told to mail _everyone_ in a subnet, allowing people within a subnet to be informed of meetings and up-coming votes. (If you abuse the program I do hope that you get your ass spanked until tingly and lightly pink or, if the abuse is too great, roasted until well done.) -=- This mailing list program may be FileRequested from The Skeptic Tank 24 hours a day using the name MAILLIST.ZIP. It comes with the C++ source code in the event you feel the need to make some changes (or port it to a bizzare foreign machine like an Amiga.) The config file which comes with the package along with the document file serve to describe what the project is capable of doing. The file is a bit over 35K zipped-up. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- What Is StormNet? StormNet is an alternative network for use with FidoNet compatible software. We pass messages back and forth both in netmail and in echomail conferences. In StormNet, each node is welcomed and assisted in many ways by other StormNet members. We have active echomail areas and a growing file echo selection. Our echomail traffic is growing every day, and are now pulling more mail ever than before. StormNet has a friendlier atmosphere than can be found in many other networks. FidoNews 12-01 Page: 5 02 Jan 1994 StormNet has been in existence for over two years, and in that time, has grown significantly. Our membership has changed from an inexperienced group of local nodes to a more mature group of people from all over the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia. Currently, we have over 350 nodes in StormNet, and are expanding every week! * Why is StormNet here? StormNet was started for a few reasons. When we created it, we wanted to serve teens, adults, and others worldwide with a quality alternative network that is relatively cheap to pull in. Most of our high speed transfers take less than a minute. Although we prefer it, you don't have to poll every day, we are flexible and will allow you to poll whenever you like. We want to serve you with the finest quality echomail and files for you and your users. We are considerably smaller than FidoNet, and therefore do not have the overflow of mail/files often seen in its conferences. The average cost per month for one who pulls StormNet and polls daily is around $6.00-7.00 within the US. * What are the rules like? StormNet? Rules? You've got to be kidding me. Well, it's not like we don't have any rules; all of the rules in our policy statement basically stem from one basic principle - "Be nice and use common sense." The policy's specifics were written to outline some problems which may potentially arise when people aren't nice and don't use common sense. The SNAC (StormNet Advisory Council) helps to ensure the smooth running of StormNet affairs. StormNet does not discriminate because of age, sex, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, beliefs, taste in food, opinion on world politics, or favorite color. We welcome anyone who is interested in joining a fun network to try out StormNet. We also don't allow "bashing", spindling or other forms of mutilation of groups in our newsletters, or any of our echos (excluding WAR_ZONE), and other parts of our network. * What are the echos like? We have a variety of conferences to suit most needs. If you are a user of StormNet, or a node, you can request an echo if you feel it would be active. We have echos on many subjects, A to Z (as we say SN_A to SN_Z). We have a talented staff of moderators and co-moderators, and combined with the efforts of our international echomail coordinator, keep the network running smoothly. * Internet... Yes, Internet! StormNet is now registered in the domain listings as "storm.net". All StormNet nodes can use our UUCP host to send messages anywhere on Internet at no additional cost to you. FidoNews 12-01 Page: 6 02 Jan 1994 * Vanity Internet addresses The StormNet International Internet Coordinator has just recently allowed a "vanity" name that you can apply for once you join StormNet. This can be just about anything, and saves typing. For example, "John.Doe@johnsbbs.storm.net" is alot easier to remember than "John.Doe@f104.n192.usa.storm.net." * Support StormNet has support sites for different types of software. We currently have technical support nodes/echos for BinkleyTerm, EzyCom, Maximus, Proboard, RemoteAccess, Storm Watch Software, and T.A.G.. New technical support nodes for other software are permitted and encouraged. When you apply for technical support, you will get a flag in the nodelist designating you as a support site. You also get your name added to the list of technical support nodes at the bottom of the nodelist. And finally, you have the option to add file and message echos software you support. * What we're looking for StormNet is looking for nodes who want to pull in high quality echomail at a relatively cheap price. Ones who think they would like StormNet to be on their BBSes or computers. We also are looking for new zones to create all the time. StormNet is not just limited to North America, other continents and countries are already members, but we would like more. We'd like to expand StormNet worldwide, and we think that everyone would benefit from this and it would strengthen relations and understanding between other nations. It already has. With European and Asian nodes, StormNet has a very unique atmosphere where you will regularly chat with people not in the same country, or continent as you. We are willing to work with you to install a new zone in/on your country/continent. * Why should I consider StormNet? We respect each and every StormNet member and his/her rights. We offer our services to all. We have a great network setup. We want all to join and have a good time in the network that we have created. We're proud of our network. We offer a unique and quaint atmosphere not found on any other network. We guarantee it. If you have any questions, comments, or problems, feel free to contact any of the nodes listed below. We'd be glad to help you. Alan Jurison StormNet Int'l EchoMail Coordinator You may F'req or download "STORMNET" (or STORMNET.ARJ) from these nodes: FidoNews 12-01 Page: 7 02 Jan 1994 BBS : Ham-Net BBS Position : StormNet Int'l HQ / IEC / Mid Atlantic RC SysOp : Alan Jurison Location : Manlius, New York, USA Data Phone : 1-315-682-1824 Voice Phone: 1-315-682-9411 (14:00-23:00 *EST/EDT*) FidoNet : (1:260/375) StormNet : (181:181/1) InterNet : Alan.Jurison@iec.storm.net Speed(s) : 14,400 v32b -- 21,600 HST/Terbo - 28,800 VFC/V34 BBS : *A*R*T*H*U*R* BBS Position : StormNet Nodelist Coordinator / Detroit Area NC SysOp : Victor Capton Location : Troy, Michigan, USA Data Phone : 1-810-740-8764 FidoNet : (1:120/120) StormNet : (181:181/2) InterNet : Victor.Capton@inc.storm.net Speed(s) : 14,400 v32b -- 21,600 HST/Terbo - 28,800 VFC/V34 BBS : ASA CompuHelp Positions : StormNet United States ZC / Ohio Valley RC SysOp : Jeff Binkley Location : Gahana, Ohio, USA Data Phone : 1-614-476-3723 FidoNet : (1:226/600) StormNet : (181:181/0) InterNet : Jeff.Binkley@zc.usa.storm.net Speed(s) : 14,400 v32b -- 21,600 HST/Terbo - 28,800 VFC/V34 BBS : New Era BBS Positions : StormNet Canada ZC SysOp : Mauro Incrocci Location : Kelowna, British Coloumbia, Canada Data Phone : 1-604-762-6239 FidoNet : (1:353/210) StormNet : (182:182/0) InterNet : Mauro.Incrocci@zc.can.storm.net Speed(s) : 14,400 v32b -- 28,800 VFC/V34 BBS : The Rising Sun BBS Positions : StormNet Europe ZC / North Central RC SysOp : Jens Fendler Location : Destedt, Germany Data Phone : +49-5306-7824 FidoNet : (2:241/510) StormNet : (183:183/0) InterNet : Jens Fendler@zc.eur.storm.net Speed(s) : 14,400.v32b -- 28,800 VFC BBS : Closet Land ][ Positions : StormNet Asia ZC / Korea RC SysOp : Greg Wilburn FidoNews 12-01 Page: 8 02 Jan 1994 Location : Munsan (Camp Howze), Korea Data Phone : +82-348-940-5677 FidoNet : (6:760/22) StormNet : (184:184/0) InterNet : Gred Wilburn@zc.asia.storm.net Speed(s) : 14,400.v32b Thank you for your time! We hope to see you soon! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Original to: Charlie Munhollon (1:284/7) cc: James Morris, Harry Spicer, Bob Satti, Tim Pearson, John Johnson cc: Bruce Bodger, David Bowerman To All; I am coming to you as the heads of the 284 net, and the people in charge of Fido for Zone 1. This matter is very serious and it is something that I take very personally. I would like to request that I get a response to this from each of you. First I am not a Sysop in net 284, however I am the Co-Sysop, and a major contributor to The Arc Angel Express BBS Fido 1:284/7. I have been told in the past that because I run a BBS in net 123 that I should stay out of net 284 problems. I cannot do this anylonger. The actions of the people that are attempting to control net 284, and there personal attacks of node 1:284/7 have gone on far to long. I am with this message issuing a formal policy complaint aginst ALL SYSOPS in net 284, the current NC/NEC and others that are attempting to force 284/7 to give up his node number, and causing him to have to consider dropping FIDO or applying for a regionl independent node number. Also along with this compliant, I am issuing a notice that in my opioion the powers that be in FIDO (namely thoose getting this msg) are also in violation of policy in allowing this situation in NET 284 to continue. This is what I understand to be taking place in net 284. First the new NC and a group of his friends are trying to force the NEC Harry Spicer to give up his position. Secound they are trying to force Mr. Charlie Munhollon to give up his node number because they want it for there own little group. There at this time as NOT been a valid reason given for 1:284/7 to have to change a node number that has been with The Arc Angel Express from it's beginngs. Aprox 2-3 years. Third: The main reason the attacks aginst 1:284/7 are being made is because this BBS offers information about HIV/AIDS. It should be noted that this is clearly DISCRIMINATION! This type of discrimination is coverd by the Americans With Disablities ACT. Also the attacks are due to the fact that 1:284/7 also offers suportive imformation for persons that are GAY, Lesbian, or BI. This again is discrimitory action. FidoNews 12-01 Page: 9 02 Jan 1994 Why? This is my simple question to everyone involved. Why? If you don't give a damn about people that have HIV/AIDS, or you disaprove of homosexuallity...then why call his BBS? How he runs that BBS is his business. No one is forced to call. So you don't like what is on the BBS, then leave his BBS alone. Give me a valiad reason for attacking this BBS. Give me a reason for attacking Harry. Who made the other sysop's in net 284 the GOD'S of what a sysop could or could not offer on there BBS? As Long as the sysop is running a system that is NOT ILLEGAL then no OTHER SYSOP has the RIGHT to demand or dictate what is on that system. How many sysop's in net 284 carry adult type networks? Adultlinks, others, etc. How many offer files that some would consider questionalbe? Before you attack someone else you should examine your own house. As to my remarks about the ADA, as it is, I have AIDS, the sysop of 1:284/7 has cancer. This puts both of us under the protection of the ADA. I do not wish to make this a legal battle. All I want is for 1:284/7 to be left alone. What ever the problems in the net are...then solve them. But do it as a group not as dictators. Mr.Munhollon will not take action aginst anyone....he is not responsible for this message. However, I on the other hand will TAKE ACTION. Let me make this very clear....1:284/7 has been in operation for 2 or more years. I have been invooilved witht he BBS for 1+ year. 1:284/7 will NOT BE ATTACKED OR HASSLED again in any way by sysop's in net 284. His node number will not be changed untill a valiad reason can be presented and responded to. I want everyone to understand my position. I have already made consultation with legal counseol, and I will act under the ADA...if this CLEAR ACT OF DISCRIMINATION does not stop. If anyone in net 284 has any comments about this then they should be directed to me DIRECTLY at 1:123/424. Do not send them to 1:284/7 as I am the one responsible for this action. If you wish to verify my status as co-sysop then please do so. The following is a copy of the text of a msg from 1:284/7 requesting info on getting a regional node number: I have included this here as a reminder to all of what is happening. There is no reason for this crap to be going on. By: Charlie Munhollon, ARC Angel Express (1:284/7) To: Gary Wilkerson Re: Independent Node request St: Pvt Crash Rcvd ------------------------------------------------------------ @MSGID: 1:284/7 2efab6e6 CC: John Johnson, Harry Spicer, Gary Wilkerson, James Morris Mr Johnson, I am sorry to bother you again, but I need your assistance please. Last tiem we "spoke" via mail you were advised of the FidoNews 12-01 Page: 10 02 Jan 1994 situation here in Springfield. And the problems my system is facing everyday. I am at this time recieving my mail with little trouble persay. Also you had mentioned that I could bypass this network altogather if needed. The local net situation has become totaly unacceptable to me. Constant fighting and so forth, little or no regard in association of respect toward one another etc. I have plenty to deal with already on my board, this network (284) is just more stress and problems I do not need. Could you please advise me what steps are needed to become an Independent Node???? I know that this is rare in happening, but I feel that my options are to become an independent or drop Fido net all togather. I have no desire to be associated with this "type" of net any longer. I have systems outside of Net 284, and a possibly 2 inside 284 that would be willing to provide my system it's mail, so obtaining the feed is no problem. I appreciate your assistance in this matter and thank you in advance for any helpthat you can render. Respectfully, Charlie M. --- GoldED 2.41 @Via 1:284/7 @19941223.064826 TNP 1.021 I want to get a response to this complaint. It should also be noted that I have sent a copy of this msg to a friend that is a frined to Tom Jennings. And for a little history course...Tom Jennings is, was the founder of FIDO, he still hold ownership. Tom is ALSO GAY!!!! Thanks Gary Wilkerson Sysop-Riversdie BBS 1:123/424 Co-Sysop-Arc Angel Express 1:284/7 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- New Canadian echo by J.P.Beland, 1:243/41 C_ABILITY The new Canadian Ability echo for persons with disabilities. The purpose of this echo is to provide a communication link to Canadians with disabilities so that they may discuss issues pertaining to persons with disabilities living in Canada. Also information is provided that can be useful to persons with disabilities in Canada. The echo unites Canadians with disabilities. Since December 18, 1994 the echo is on the Fido backbone. FidoNews 12-01 Page: 11 02 Jan 1994 The name to use on your bbs is Canadian ABILITY ECHO. The tag to request the echo is C_ABILITY J.P.Beland moderator Canadian ABILITY ECHO, 1:243/41 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Tape - Cut Tape Cassetts Tape-1.ZIP Fredric L. Rice, December 1994 The Skeptic Tank (1:102/890.0) (818) 335-9601 I have a program which records the titles, authors, and lengths of the songs you have laying about the house which then allows you to build tape cassetts from that information, keeping track of the length of available time on cassetts you create. It's useful for when you wish to collect your records (remember those?) and CDs onto tape cassett in a rational way without exceeding the length of the tapes you wish to create. Some of the functionality allows for the removal of a song from your database which in turn causes the program to inform you which of your tapes are affected. Once you define tapes based upon the songs in your database, it is up to you to produce a report on the tapes and physically dupe them together; this program doesn't manipulate commercial hardware packages which record tracks and cuts the tapes for you. -=- This program may be FileRequested from The Skeptic Tank 24 hours a day using the name TAPE-1.ZIP. It DOES NOT come with the C source code. If you're interested in getting the source code, drop me a network message and I'll FileAttach it to a system of your choice. (This one's being controlled as further development is expected to allow it to use existing databases and barcodes.) The file is a bit over 21K zipped-up. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- NodeArea - Nodelist Area Code extraction NodeArea.ZIP Fredric L. Rice, December 1994 The Skeptic Tank (1:102/890.0) (818) 335-9601 This program will take the area code you're interested in, the FidoNews 12-01 Page: 12 02 Jan 1994 nodelist file you wish to scan, and produce a report on the nodelist entries in that area code, sorted by the city. It is useful for offering individuals (users) a list of FidoNet systems which are in a particular area code so that they might find systems which are local to them. It reports the city, system name, SysOp name, and the telephone number only. Entries which have duplicate phone numbers are excluded from the report and the first occurance of the phone number entry is reported. Entries with the CDN nodelist flags are excluded from the list. -=- This program may be FileRequested from The Skeptic Tank 24 hours a day using the name NODEAREA.ZIP. It DOES NOT come with the C source code. If you're interested in getting the source code, drop me a network message and I'll FileAttach it to a system of your choice. The file is a bit over 18K zipped-up. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- New Echo: False Memory Syndrome by David Bloomberg, 1:2430/1 FMS: The False Memory Syndrome Echo Do huge satanic conspiracies pervade the country and abuse children? Are aliens regularly abducting people but forcing them to forget all about it? Do children routinely forget horrible extended abuse perpetrated on them by their relatives? All of these claims stem from one source: Repressed memories. There are therapists across the country who will tell you that they can help "recover" these memories. Numerous books have been written. Some books encourage people to beieve that they've been abused, even if there is no indication that any such thing ever happened. New books are coming out saying that these other books are full of baloney, and that recovered memories are false memories. Yet other books are saying that claims of false memories are the baloney, and that recovered memories are real. So who is right? There are other echos on FidoNet which deal with some of these claims specifically. UFO, I_UFO, and BAMA deal with claims of alien abductions, among others, and allow varying degrees of debate on the subject, but they don't address all of the aspects of this phenomena. There are numerous "survivor" echos, but none allow any form of debate (to my knowledge), only "support" without "invalidating". Unfortunately, many of those who believe in these phenomena consider any questioning of claims or asking for evidence to be "invalidating". Again, these also only address one aspect of the phenomena. So where can a FidoNetter go to discuss the entire gamut? The SKEPTIC echo is currently available, but frankly we don't want to overflow that echo with one single topic, even though it is a very FidoNews 12-01 Page: 13 02 Jan 1994 important topic. Well, now there is an echo specifically for discussion and debate of all the aspects of this phenomenon. The FMS echo (for False Memory Syndrome) has been available for a couple months, and has been steadily growing. Now it's time to bring it up to the backbone. For that we need some more nodes. Here is the EchoList description of the FMS echo: This echo is for the discussion of False Memory Syndrome (FMS) and related topics, including those phenomena thought to be caused by FMS. All viewpoints are welcome, both pro and con, but don't be surprised if you are asked to back up your claims with evidence. The implications of FMS, as well as the evidence, are on-topic. Yes, ALL viewpoints are welcome on the echo. Please don't assume that the echo tag of "FMS" means only the pro-FMS view is allowed. This is a subject which needs to be critically and rationally examined; there are already too many baseless claims flying around. People are being hurt by the "recovered" memories. Not only the parents and others who are accused, but also the patients. If the memories are untrue, their lives are being ruined. If the memories are true, we have a veritable epidemic on our hands and we have to do something about it. The FMS echo is currently hubbed out of the founder/moderator's node, The Temples of Syrinx, 1:2430/1. It can also be obtained from the following nodes: 374/14, 102/890, 124/9005, 130/911, and 268/102. For a copy of the rules, FReq FMS.RUL from 2430/1. You might also want to FReq FILES for my filelist, which includes over 100 files related to FMS, many of which have been distributed on the FMS echo. For the entire file set, FReq FMS, but be ready for an increase in your long distance bill! If you'd like more information, please feel free to contact me! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Article submitted by Aulton White 1:3645/30 FIDO Netmail, Why not allow users access? Many Sysops do not allow users access to Netmail. Routed Netmail would not cost the Sysop any more than normal. FIDO users would be able to send and receive E-Mail easier than using Internet. With the U.S. Postal Service raising rates and mail taking days to arrive, FIDO Netmail would be a simple answer to the problem. It was put to me that there may be legal problems if users depended on the FIDO mail. As with Internet mail, a disclaimer can be posted to inform users of policy. I understand that in the beginning FIDO was basically an E-Mail network and echo came later. Well it may be the time to go back to basics. Some current problems with Internet are: FidoNews 12-01 Page: 14 02 Jan 1994 Access is not easily available to many users. Addressing system of Internet is not simple. The Internet Super highway is becoming more like a traffic Jam. Cost can be another problem. just to name a few. With FIDO net In place and working rather well, it makes sense to utilize the system to be a public service. Access too many local BBS's will give users access to an international E-Mail system that will simplify life. Even with prepaid crash mail the cost would be cheaper than the U.S. Postal Service. The media has not seen the power FIDO net as available now. With over 25,000 nodes world wide FIDO may have the largest access availability. If the sysops in FIDO work together we could make the FIDO network a household word. I am trying to get Sysop's to send me a list of BBS's (node numbers) by city and state that allow users access to Netmail. In this list there should be a list of access fees and/or if prepay crash mail access is available. With this information available users can establish an address for their mail. This could increase user use on BBS's and put FIDO in the spotlight. With monthly updates available in ZIP, ARJ, or LHA format, users could have access to any node in the world. With the use of off-line mail readers and points, FIDO E-Mail access would be very easy to use. If anyone is interested in this and wants to get this thing going, contact me by netmail at 1:3645/30 or 1:3645/31(business node). ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Snooz Editorbeings, Please indicate that the following is submitted by Charles Herriot (1:163/110) so that Dallas' second last working neuron doesn't explode trying to figure this out. The missive arrived, engraved on a coconut, and reeked of Giant Clams. Roll da flic, Sylvia... Swamp Swine Magazine, Shuckmagosh, Ohio Dear Reverend Visage, Thank Elvis, you have returned to the land of the living... so to speak. The plaintive baaing of your flock was beginning to annoy the neighbours and the Snooz editors were getting ugly about paying some of your petty cash vouchers. Incidentally, thank you for sending my address to all of the Johannes. They arrived in a fearful state of undress, considering the harsh weather, and it has taken all FidoNews 12-01 Page: 15 02 Jan 1994 week to warm them up. (Unfortunately, a technical matter, trying to get an old box to work, caused me to send the Johannes back out into the cold.) Since this is being written on the last day of 1994 I feel obliged to sum up the year in some fashion and to make predictions about the coming year. (First off, there is no doubt that in 1995, a Grammy will be awarded for "Best Contribution to Rock & Roll"... to Kurt Coblain's shotgun.) In the closing days of 1994, Region 12 was blessed by new depths of insanity, what with the gendarmes paying an xmas morning visit to Barry "Tourette's Poster Child" Carter as a result of a harassment complaint filed by the NC250, James "Mom, Mom, He Called Me a Bad Word" Korolas. Charming... absolutely charming. These people really know how to party and remain unswayed by the peace&goodwill sentiments which usually pour forth in this season. I suggest sending at least a case of Glow-in-the-dark Jesus night lights to these barbarians so that they can be saved. Not to be outdone, the NC259 threatened to sue the owner of a Planetary bird bath dish who had been providing an echomail feed at no cost to net259. The NC259, Lil' Bryan Federowski thought that unleashing legal weaseling would be an appropriate form of thanks. Three lumps of coal for Lil' Bryan, I say, and may the fresh Pampers be with him. Even more amusing, the Duddy Grimspam of Net243, Chris "Give Me Money, honey" Weisner, went ballistic when his toll booth brigandry on the information highway was undercut by cheaper and better service from the REC. Chris has been a pioneer in the commercialization of Fidonet. Our pennies and our edible underwear should go out to him in his hour of deprivation. I am almost certain to provoke a volley of Thorazine tipped darts from your direction if I mention our RC, Rick "46 days of Ignomy & Ignorance Left to Go" Johnston, but this is a good news kind of tidbit. For the *eighth" time this year, Rick has successfully submitted the nodediff segment. Whoever said that you couldn't teach amoebas new tricks? We haven't heard from Bob "Bob" Satti, which was not surprising considering that he must surely be huddled with Dallas Hinton and other similarly enlightened RCs, trying to muster the collective skills to figure out how to use an electric can opener so that they don't starve to death. If anyone out in Fidoland happens to know the date when the conclave of cardinals lofted Satti into the ZC position, Swamp Swine Magazine would appreciate a netmail. We'd like to start the death-watch on his inglorious term of office. I recognize that this is just one more example of my depraved condition, but it just wouldn't seem right to let a year end go by without tilting at my favourite windmill. For FidoNews 12-01 Page: 16 02 Jan 1994 reasons which even escape me, I've been gathering statistics for years on the ratios between original text and quoted text in messages. You'll be delighted to know that the average echomail conference now contains slightly more than 30% quoted text, as opposed to approx. 25% a year ago. This is probably engendered by the advent of all of those dumbshit Internet macros that technoweenies append to every message and which get quoted by the thinking impaired in each response. Fidonet communication ( I use the word loosely) by the year 2000 will consist of smallish grunts followed by pages of quoted material. To all of the the software authors who wrote programs making it easy to quote messages: May you be condemned to spending months with John Denver listening to him sing "Rocky Mountain High." I think there will be a special irony involved with the fact that in years to come, the BIKERSLUTS echo will probably be the last meaningful echo in all of Fidoland. I must go Visage. Ms. Labamba has returned, albeit with a seraphic glow on her face. She has become insistent that I *do* something about the penguins which established a rookery in her filing cabinet. She claims that she can't concentrate with the smell of fish pervading the room. I suggest that we offer her a a de-scented guppy as a peace offering. Regards, Doc Logger, Bivalve Bartender & Clam Psychologist, Farluga, South Pacific ---------------------------------------------------------------------- ======================================================================== Fidonews Information ======================================================================== ------- FIDONEWS MASTHEAD AND CONTACT INFORMATION ---------------- Editors: Donald Tees, Sylvia Maxwell Editors Emeritii: Thom Henderson, Dale Lovell, Vince Perriello, Tim Pozar Tom Jennings "FidoNews" BBS FidoNet 1:1/23 BBS +1-519-570-4176, 300/1200/2400/14400/V.32bis/HST(DS) more addresses: Rev. Richard Visage -- 1:163/409 Don -- 1:221/192, don@exlibris.tdkcs.waterloo.on.ca Tim -- pozar@kumr.lns.com (Postal Service mailing address) FidoNews 128 Church St. FidoNews 12-01 Page: 17 02 Jan 1994 Kitchener, Ontario Canada N2H 2S4 voice: (519) 570-3137 Fidonews is published weekly by and for the members of the FIDONET INTERNATIONAL AMATEUR ELECTRONIC MAIL system. It is a compilation of individual articles contributed by their authors or their authorized agents. The contribution of articles to this compilation does not diminish the rights of the authors. Opinions expressed in these articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of FidoNews. Authors retain copyright on individual works; otherwise FidoNews is Copyright 1994 Sylvia Maxwell. All rights reserved. Duplication and/or distribution permitted for noncommercial purposes only. For use in other circumstances, please contact the original authors, or the eds. Articles by Madam emilia may be retransmitted freely through cyber-space. OBTAINING COPIES: The most recent issue of FidoNews in electronic form may be obtained from the FidoNews BBS via manual download or Wazoo FileRequest, or from various sites in the FidoNet and Internet. PRINTED COPIES may be obtained by sending SASE to the above paper-mail address, or trade for copy of your 'zine. INTERNET USERS: FidoNews is available via FTP from ftp.fidonet.org, in directory ~ftp/pub/fidonet/fidonews. Anyone interested in getting a copy of the INTERNET GATEWAY FAQ may freq GISFAQ.ZIP from 1:133/411.0, or send an internet message to fidofaq@gisatl.fidonet.org. No message or text or subject is necessary. The address is a keyword that will trigger the automated response. People wishing to send inquiries directly to David Deitch should now mail to fidonet@gisatl.fidonet.org rather than the previously listed address. SUBMISSIONS: You are encouraged to submit articles for publication in FidoNews. Article submission requirements are contained in the file ARTSPEC.DOC, available from the FidoNews BBS, or Wazoo filerequestable from 1:1/23 as file "ARTSPEC.DOC". Please read it. "Fido", "FidoNet" and the dog-with-diskette are U.S. registered trademarks of Tom Jennings, and are used with permission. "the pulse of the cursor is the heartbeat of fidonet"... -- END ---------------------------------------------------------------------- FidoNews 12-01 Page: 18 02 Jan 1994