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*---== STReport International Online Magazine ==---* """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" "The Original 16/32bit Online Magazine" from STR Publishing """""""""""""" January 02, 1993 No.9.01 ========================================================================== STReport International Online Magazine Post Office Box 6672 Jacksonville, Florida 32205 ~ 6672 R.F. Mariano Publisher - Editor ----------------------------------------- Voice: 904-783-3319 10 AM - 4 PM EST Support BBS Network System * THE BOUNTY BBS * * TURBO BOARD BBS SYSTEM * FNET 350 ~ Fido 112:35 ~ Nest 90:21/350.0 904-786-4176 USR/HST 24hrs - 7 days 1200 - 19.2bps V.32 - 42 bis 16.8 Dual Standard FAX: 904-783-3319 12 AM - 6 AM EST ----------------------------------------- FNET.. 18 : ///Turbo Board BBS Support...1-416-274-1225 FNET.. 75 : Bloom County BBS.............1-415-965-9347 FNET. 350 : The Bounty *<Home of STR>*...1-904-786-4176 FNET. 489 : Steal Your Face BBS..........1-908-920-7981 _____________________________________________________________________ > 01/02/93 STR 901 "The Original * Independent * Online Magazine!" """""""""""""""" - The Editor's Desk - CPU Report - PORTFOLIO NEWS - MEMORY LANE - ATARI STUDY - CONCIERGE=ST WORKS - PEOPLE ARE TALKING - CONNECT INFO! - FORBES REVISITED - TRUE INSIGHT - STR MAILCALL - STR Confidential -* STR CONFIDENTIAL YEAR IN REVIEW *- -* A LOOK AT THE FUTURE *- -* ITS JANUARY'93 -> FALCON030 - WHERE? *- ========================================================================== STReport International Online Magazine The Original * Independent * Online Magazine -* FEATURING WEEKLY *- "Accurate UP-TO-DATE News and Information" Current Events, Original Articles, Tips, Rumors, and Information Hardware - Software - Corporate - R & D - Imports ========================================================================== STReport's BBS, The Bounty, invites BBS systems, worldwide, to participate in the Fido/NEST/Atari F-Net Mail Network. You may also call our BBS direct at 904-786-4176, and enjoy the excitement of exchanging information relative to all computers, worldwide, through the use of excellent International Networking Systems. SysOps, worldwide, are quite welcome to join the STReport International Conferences. The Crossnet Code is #34813, and the "Lead Node" is # 350. All BBS systems are welcome and invited to actively participate. Support your favorite computers; Join Today! ========================================================================== CIS ~ GENIE ~ DELPHI ~ BIX ~ FIDO ~ FNET ~ NEST EURONET ~ CIX ~ CLEVELAND FREE-NET ~ INTERNET ========================================================================== ============= * ATARI EDITION * ============= COMPUSERVE WILL PRESENT $15.00 WORTH OF COMPLIMENTARY ONLINE TIME to the Readers of; ST REPORT INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" "The Original 16/32bit Online Magazine" NEW USERS; SIGN UP TODAY! CALL: 1-800-848-8199 .. Ask for operator 198 You will receive your complimentary time and be online in no time at all! WHAT'S NEW IN THE ATARI FORUMS (January 02) NEW IN ATARI VENDORS FORUM (GO ATARIVEN)! CODEHEAD provides a new patch to upgrade Warp 9 to version 3.74, the latest free update for Warp 9 with Extend-O-Save, the first modular screensaver for Atari computers. This archive contains everything you need to update from v3.73 to v3.74. (Previous updates are available in this same library for earlier versions.) See the file W9374U.LZH in Library 16, CodeHead Tech. GRAPHIC FILES... A number of new graphic images are available for download from the Atari Arts Forum (GO ATARIARTS). Check out the following files: (Filename)(Lib)(Description) ALIEN1.LZH 9 CEL animation from Ralph Bakshi's "Wizards" BBOOP.LZH 9 Betty Boop digitized sequence (from P.D. footage) BIRD.LZH 9 Gangly bird hops along swaying its neck (3D) CAN.LZH 9 A license plate is peeled from a cola can. CLOWN.LZH 9 Rotating 3D clowns head DOMINO.LZH 9 rendered dominos knocking each other down. GLOBE.LZH 9 rendered animation of the world spinning MARVIN.LZH 9 Marvin the Martian (w/o ACME disintegrator) PTERO.LZH 10 Flying 3D pterodactyl (good example of 3D cartoon ROBOTR.LZH 10 Transforming semi gets out of a traffic jam. PLAY ASTEROIDS BY MODEM! Download file RAYOID.LZH from LIBRARY 2 of the Atari Arts Forum (GO ATARIARTS) for a three-in-one package of games. Includes a game similar to Asteroids with great sounds (DMA sound supported). Action and strategy. Documentation in English and French. UPDATE TO VENDOR.DAT Download file VENDOR.DAT from LIBRARY 6 of the Atari Productivity Forum (GO ATARIPRO). This file contains an update to the Atari Vendors database. Includes names, addresses, phone numbers, product info, and CIS UserIDs for developers and vendors of Atari products. Please see VENDOR.ARC in the same library for the viewer PRG/ACC and documentation. NATIONAL ATARI BBS LISTING Download file ACBBS.TXT from LIBRARY 2 of the Atari Productivity Forum (GO ATARIPRO) for Atari Classics magazine's Atari 8-bit/ST National BBS listing. PRINT PORTFOLIO TEXT SIDEWAYS... Download file PDSW.ZIP from LIBRARY 3 of the Atari Portfolio Forum (GO APORTFOLIO) for a great little Public Domain Dos utility will print text sideways from your Portfolio. Small - about 1k in size and great for preadsheets! OR PRINT IN TWO COLUMNS... Download file 2COL.ZIP from LIBRARY 5 of the Atari Portfolio Forum (GO APORTFOLIO) for a DOS application program (which works on the Portfolio) that will format and print documents in two columns. THE ATARI PORTFOLIO FORUM ON COMPUSERVE HAS BEEN DESIGNATED AN OFFICIAL SUPPORT SITE BY ATARI CORPORATION "GO APORTFOLIO TO ACCESS THE ATARI PORTFOLIO FORUM" """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > From the Editor's Desk "Saying it like it is!" """""""""""""""""""""" This is our special end of the year issue, its big.. but rest assured its definitely gonna be entertaining. I sincerely hope you enjoy perusing its various features. I, like most other Atari fanatics, am genuinely concerned over the lack of activity on Atari's part and in particular, the lack of candid, straight forward information. Perhaps in the new year we will be witness to an improvement in this area. In the last three weeks, there has been a furor over a few customer complaints about my other enterprise ABCO Computers. There is really nothing to say other than those people doing business with ABCO will be satisfied. Our goal is not to alienate customers.. its to satisfy them. At this time, please allow me to remind those who seem so confused about the relationship between ABCO and STReport and its staff. There is none. I may be an owner of ABCO, but that will have no bearing on STReport nor has it ever. Why? Because thats the way it has been since day one. It would have been simple to accept any type of influence as the norm... but that simply has never happened and never will as it would have meant giving someone an undue amount of influence over this magazine. Additionally, as with any publication, adverts are the responsiblity of the advertiser not the publication. The bottom line in the Atari arena is really simple; Had there been copious product flow, there would have been more action than any number of dealers could've handled. As it stands now, we have a number of dealers out there involved the worst cut-throat sessions I've ever seen in five years. It seems to bear true the old adage of the pond drying up and the big fish trying to gobble up the little fish. Sad but very true. In the coming weeks, things will begin to straighten out as the economy get more healthy with each passing day. As such, the marketplace will begin to re-vitalize. Atari, like the rest of us, has got to get off its dead rump and start to perform! Ralph @ STReport International Online Magazine """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" STReport's Staff DEDICATED TO SERVING YOU! """""""""""""""" Publisher - Editor """""""""""""""""" Ralph F. Mariano PC DIVISION AMIGA DIVISION MAC DIVISION ----------- -------------- ------------ Roger D. Stevens Charles Hill R. ALBRITTON STReport Staff Editors: """"""""""""""""""""""" Lloyd E. Pulley Sr. Dana P. Jacobson Michael Arthur Lucien Oppler Brad Martin Judith Hamner John Szczepanik Dan Stidham Joseph Mirando Steve Spivey Doyle C. Helms Contributing Correspondents: """""""""""""""""""""""""""" Michael Lee Richard Covert John Deegan Brian Converse Oliver Steinmeier Tim Holt Andrew Learner Norman Boucher Harry Steele Ben Hamilton Neil Bradley Eric Jerue Ron Deal Robert Dean Ed Westhusing James Nolan Vernon W. Smith Bruno Puglia Clemens Chin IMPORTANT NOTICE """""""""""""""" Please, submit letters to the editor, articles, reviews, etc... via E-Mail to: Compuserve.................... 70007,4454 Delphi........................ RMARIANO BIX........................... RMARIANO FIDONET....................... 112/35 FNET.......................... NODE 350 NEST.......................... 90:21/350.0 GEnie......................... ST-REPORT """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" STR'S "BELIEVE IT? OR.. WHAT?" <>###############################<> "There is no comparison! The Atari Falcon is far superior to the PC platform." Sam Tramiel, 08/92 "My new office, which has a better view than my old one, is so far quite satisfactory. And Richard Miller is in my old office. The Forbes article was a mish-mash and misconstrued article full of half truths. We are anxiously awaiting the release of the Atari Falcon to bring us back to the forefront. The article has given us some laughs, but otherwise has not affected us." Sam Tramiel, 08/92 "As I said before, all marketing announcements will be made at Duesseldorf. I will not comment on future models of the Falcon. WE ARE TALKING TODAY ABOUT A MACHINE..... WHICH WILL BE SHIPPING NEXT WEEK." Sam Tramiel, 08/92 "I've just returned from Asia, where I saw the first Atari Falcon production coming off the lines. Let's hope this new offering will make it in North America. I know that the specs are great." Sam Tramiel, 08/92 "We have not yet even given the machine to the FCC. And we are only applying for Class B approval. According to our "experts", it should pass Class B." Sam Tramiel, 08/92 "...... We are not working for Wall Street but to make money for our shareholders and only think long term." Sam Tramiel, 11/92 psssst. FYI.... The Shareholder's equity is fine.... NOT! The Stock is hovering around $1.12 CHRISTMAS '92 has COME and GONE... FALCONS ....anyone? By the Way.... Does the Falcon work well with any of the SLM Laser Printers?? NOT! """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > ONLINE WEEKLY STReport OnLine The wires are a hummin'! """"""""""""""""""""""""""""" PEOPLE... ARE TALKING ===================== On CompuServe ------------- compiled by Joe Mirando Well folks, another year has now crawled past and is now little more than a memory. The new year, being only three days old hasn't unfolded enough to give us any idea of what it may bring. We are currently "stuck" between the past year and the future year. As is always the case, between what was and what will be lies hope. This may sound strange coming from an STReport editor, but this IS a time for hope! The FALCON030 is an outstanding machine. All the poor wee beastie needs is to be released (according to Atari, the release is being held up by licencing SNAFUs related to software that they wish to bundle with the FALCON). STReport has always held the FALCON030, and in fact, ALL ATARI computers in very high regard. Once the FALCON is released, I hope to see a renewed faith in ATARI computers. On a less than happy note, this week's column will be shorter than normal. My modem has at long last given up the electronic ghost. I'm now back to using the first modem I ever purchased: an old 300 baud jobber. Boy, I remember the day I first used this thing... I thought it was the fastest piece of hardware going. Ah, technologies ability to outpace itself whenever it wants to. Truly amazing. Add to that the fact that I'm just getting over the nastiest bout of the flu I've had in a while, and I guess you could say that I'm glad that old '92 is over. Well, let's get on with the show... From The Atari Productivity Forum ================================= You must have heard the phrase about every cloud having a silver lining? Albert Dayes of Atari Explorer Magazine points out something rather interesting: "One thing I've noticed we haven't been attacked by viruses like they have been on other platforms. I remember someone brought a virus into the MAC lab at school during finals week. The entire network was down for about 3 days which was great for all of those who waited to the last minute to type their term papers. I was very happy to have a virus free Atari. <grin> In the past there has been strong interest in virus protection programs but it seems to have stopped. I heard that they have some real nasty viruses in Europe that haven't made it hear yet." Sysop Bob Retelle tells Albert: "That's one of the things I've been extremely surprised at, in my years of observing the Atari world... there is a tremendous potential for destructive viruses, and yet we've never really seen anything that even comes close to the destruction that happens on other platforms. I keep hearing about the "link viruses" from Europe, and how nasty they are, but has *anyone* here ever actually seen one..? Even though the Atari world seems to be extremely fragmented, there still is enough communication between the US and the various European communities that we surely would have been "infected" by now.. it's been years, and so far nothing. And even in the area of floppy disk boot viruses.. I've been infected with the "Key" virus, and I know that many other people have been too.. but.. has anyone ever seen the "second" half of that virus..? The one that "triggers" the nasty stuff..? As far as I know, no one has... Very interesting, and very odd... I don't think it's because the programmers in the Atari world are any more "ethical" than in any other arena, nor is it that they're not as clever.." Dazzz Smith jumps in and adds: "There are Link viri on the ST, but not very many, and not very widespread that is why any decent virus checker includes an option to check for a link virus, the use of a rom based operating system certainly was the one major feature of the ST that put a lot of virus writers off and confined them to a bootsector virus which is now easily detectable. I spoke to Richard Karsmakers some years ago when he first included an option to check for link viri and he said he put it in because he had been sent 2 link viri on a disk, up until then he hadn't considered looking for them. So they do exist, but not in any great quantity as far as I can tell." Sysop Bob Retelle tells Dazzz: "I'm still amazed that those link viruses haven't spread... since they can be passed on by downloading files (as opposed to boot sector viruses where either a physical disk must be passed, or an "image" archive of the disk has to be transferred).. Just think of the number of files that are transmitted around the world on UseNet, not to mention all the ones uploaded to large national archives like CompuServe... the potential for an "epidemic" is almost staggering.. and yet we haven't seen it.. Don't get me wrong... I'm extremely relieved that we haven't had the kinds of problems other platforms have..!" Does anybody other than me find the specter (not to be confused with spectre ;-) of all these different viruses (viri?) to be frightening? I mean, heck, what if someone uploads a virus-bearing file to an On-Line service like Compuserve? Steve Gould wonders the same thing and asks Bob Retelle about it: "You sysop guys must run anti-virus software on any uploads before releasing them, so the chances of Atari users picking up a link virus from any CIS downloads must be pretty small. Well I hope they are pretty small! Please reassure me!" Bob Retelle reassures Steve (and me): "Yes.. all uploads are thoroughly checked before we release them into the public libraries... (that's one reason it might take a day or two for them to show up after being uploaded). We in the Atari world really have been pretty lucky not to be hit by the kinds of destructive viruses that are floating around on other platforms.. I went to help pick up the month's copies of the Michigan Atari Magazine (the forerunner of Atari Interface magazine) one time, and the office at the printer's was all torn up.. it turned out that a client had brought in a document on a Macintosh disk to be printed, and it had a virus on it.. it had completely destroyed the printer's hard drive, and he was in the painful process of trying to recover whatever he could.. It was a rather sobering object lesson..." Steve thanks Bob and relays an anecdote: "'Phew thanks Bob, I hoped you were going to say that! In my meager two years Atari experience I've only seen about half a dozen viri (or is it viruses?) All have been boot sector and been of the annoying rather than destructive kind. I remember reading a thread elsewhere (sorry, can't remember where), that was discussing the instances of viruses on CIS. Only one event was cited where a file got onto the system unchecked and remained there for an hour or so before being discovered. With the volume of files handled on CIS I guess this shows how successfully viruses CAN be contained if you follow proper procedures. One other thing about viruses that is harder to deal with are the misconceptions of the ignorant. At work I have heard quite senior IT staff discussing the banning of connections to external bulletin boards because of the 'virus threat'. The sad thing is they do not consider the mechanisms involved. As far as they're concerned, as soon as you log onto a BBS a virus could leap down the phone, over the network, and onto a mainframe - even if you're only reading messages! Ho hum!" Well, since its anecdote time, Bob Retelle tells us about that famous italian painter... Mike... Mike... oh, heck, you know who I mean: "Heh.. I ran into a lot of that "virus panic" last spring when the Michelangelo virus media event took place.. We had people worried that all our VAXes were going to be destroyed on the 12th of March.. Interestingly enough, when we scanned all the PCs in the building (the first time they'd ALL been scanned as far as I know), we didn't find ANY viruses, let along Michelangelo. But the media sure had a circus with it..!" From the Atari ST Arts Forum ============================ Jim Linton asks: "I wonder if anyone can help me find a game called Midi Maze? It is rather old but I'd like to find a copy." Albert Dayes, that busy guy from Atari Explorer Magazine, tells Jim: "I don't know if it still being distributed I doubt it. You might try your Atari dealer and see if they can find a used one for you. Also there is supposed to be a MIDI-MAZE II floating around but I haven't seen it myself." Helpful as ever, Sysop Bob Retelle tells Jim: "Hi Jim... we've got the Shareware version, MIDI MAZE II here in our libraries: [73167,2611] Lib: 2 MIDIMZ.APP/Bin Bytes: 332800, Count: 43, 13-May-91 Last:13-Dec-92 Title : Midi Maze ][ German Shareware Keywords: MIDIMAZE MIDIMAZE-2 MIDIMAZE-II MIDI MAZE II SHAREWARE This self-extracting LHarc file contains a SHAREWARE version of Midi-Maze! "Midi Maze ][" is a German import with most of the features of the original Xanth game, and several improvements! Includes translated and improved doc's. Format a disk single-sided/10-sectors and extract this to it for a complete bootable disk. Aloha, from the Happy Hacker! (Tim) Note that it's a self extracting file.. download it with the name MIDIMZ.APP and double click on it.. it'll uncompress into the full game with folders." Rick Meredith tells Bob: "You may want to point out that Midimaze II does not support single player games." Pat Augustine posts: "Surprisingly enough, when I was at WAACE, I noticed that Barefoot Software had several original Midi Maze games for sale. You might want to try them, especially if the Shareware Sequel isn't to your liking (no 1-player mode, for example)." From the Atari Vendors Forum ============================ To Warp or not to Warp. That is the question. Warp 9, that is. To tell you the truth, as a former user of TurboST, Quick ST, and now, Warp 9, I can tell anyone who asks: "BUY IT! ITS THE BEST THERE IS!" And what about the new TOS version (2.06)? How much trouble is it to get it into a pre-STe machine? Robert Aries asks Charles F. Johnson of CodeHead Technologies: "I'm considering getting Warp 9 and the TEC for my ancient 520ST (1986 vintage). My first question, whether it would fit along with my EARCO memory upgrade board, was answered by searching for and reading TEC.TXT. I need to know one other thing: What happens to TOS 1.0? I imagine that the roms stay where they are, right? Is there an easy way to switch back if I need to? The reason I ask is that I have a lot of GFA Basic 2.0 programs that I'm pretty sure would break under the newer TOS." Charles, being the nice guy that he is, jumps in quickly and tells Robert: "When you install the TEC, you have the option of wiring up a switch that will let you toggle between TOS 1.0 and 2.06. A word of caution, though; the switch does require a fair bit of soldering, and should only be done by an authorized technician. If you have any further questions you should consider calling our office at 213-386-5735 and talking to John, who's had much more experience with the installation of TECs than I have." John Damiano of Transierra jumps in and tells us: "I have done three of them and you do need to be comfortable with wiring/soldering. You also need a small tipped iron and some small dia. solder. All of mine worked fine and its wonderful to be able to go back to 1.0 or 1.2 when you need to do so...I would not recommend doing it any other way really. This is for Robert..I know you already know all this :)" From the Atari Portfolio Forum ============================== Does anyone remember the first time they heard the term 'connectivity'? I do! It was just before I bought my Portfolio. Someone was talking about how hard it was to transfer information between their Macintosh and an IBM style laptop. There were several others around who all mentioned their favorite methods. I don't remember much of that conversation today, but I wish I did. Bill Seitz asks: "Is there software for the Mac that handles the various PIM data from the Portfolio? I'd use it primarily for backup. Also, is there something equivalent for HyperList?" Hugh Campbell tells Bill: "I use the outliner program MORE II with HyperList files on the Mac. It takes a little experimentation but it works pretty well..." BJ Gleason, a sysop who believes that "A program a day keeps no one away", tells Bill: "There is a version of the Portfolio software for the MAC... you might want to contact computer books or DIP in england... their addresses are in the PORT.FAQ file in lib 1..." On the subject of "what ELSE can I use this program for", Miles Taub tells us: "I recently purchased Hyperlist for the Port and am very impressed with it. However, I'm sure there are tons of very clever uses for it that I'm unaware of. Would anyone like to submit some suggestions?" STReport Portfolio Editor and Sysop Judy Hamner tells Miles: "Hyperlist is great for taking notes or any type of data organizing. I've used it several times to take notes at seminars. I always took notes in outline format in college so it was a natural use for me. I've used outlines for everything from to-do lists to vacation planning." Sysop Marty Mankins tells Miles: "Well, it makes a great outliner. Plus, I use it to track articles I write for my newsletter. It's more than just a database. And more than an outliner." Don Thomas, Atari's Portfolio guru, tells Miles: "Hyperlist is perfect for any situation where there are lots of components to make a whole. For instance, inventories of products in which you might also want to easily organize the components required to build them... and the raw materials to make those components. Possibly, legs of a trip or the composition of smaller projects to complete a larger one (making a movie, building a house, etc.)" Well folks, that's it for this week. Let's hope that this year brings to us the knowledge that we were right all along: Atari computers really are the best all-around value in computers. And that our complaints and comments about the way they have (or haven't) been promoted have actually helped to turn a dismal situation around. So tune in next week (same time, same station) and listen in on what they are saying when... PEOPLE ARE TALKING _____________________________________________________________ > Serious Overviews STR Spotlight "...What's Atari waiting for?" =============================== Reprint from 1992 "The more things change the more they remain the same!" ATARI - A STUDY IN ITSELF! ========================== by Ed Krimen I've been an Atari ST user for 3-1/2 years. I started out with a 1040ST, color monitor, and 9-pin printer. I bought it for writing for school with the intention to do telecommunications and drawing later. 6 months later, I bought a modem and it hasn't been the same since. I now have a 4meg STe, NEC Multisync 3D, Quantum 105meg hard drive with ICD host adaptor in an ICD case, and a Supra 2400 modem. But, enough with the sappy introduction.... I'm really not sure what's going on in the world of Atari. I look to the on-line magazines, ST Informer, and now AtariUser for info, plus various networks. The networks provide the user's point of view. The magazines are also effective information because they try to explain what's going on behind the scenes. I have the strange feeling that Atari is like a circus behind the scenes. On the surface, it seems like any other corporation: the people who answer phones at Customer and Technical Support are very friendly and responsive. Yes, Atari has returned my calls. On the other hand, its actions demonstrate the amateurism that the magazines don't necessarily express explicitly. Sure, we have MegaSTe's shipping. TT's are Trickling in, Too. STe's are in abundance. Research and Development is alive and well; we have an ST Notebook in the wings with an ST Pad (STylus) close behind -- or so they say. Software seems to be picking up too, especially with Goldleaf importing high-end applications from Europe, ISD and SoftLogik updating their fantastic programs. The situation seems to be pretty rosy.... ...but it isn't. Why do I know the situation the way it is? Because I try to keep up to date in the Atari world. I make an effort to do so. The problem is that the non-Atari users don't and shouldn't have to make the effort to know what's going on. Why should they know what's going on? Well, I would think that Atari wants to sell a lot of computers, and people aren't going to buy something they don't know exists. Actually, I sometimes wonder if Atari's goal is to sell computers. I've heard stories that their production plants only produce a small fraction of what they're capable of producing. So what's Atari waiting for? _Christmas_? Perhaps. But it's not Christmas of this year, or next year, of the following year. My guess is that its Christmas of 1995 or later, if ever. As with all corporations, Atari has their "plan." They're going to wait and wait and wait until the time is right to push their computers. The vast majority of people out there don't know what they'd use a computer for, so why try to sell them one now? Computers must get smaller, cheaper, and more powerful. The interface must be easier, without a bulky keyboard. Speech recognition is a ways off, but apparently, handwriting recognition is closer than we think, or so they tell us. These easy-to-use interfaces are necessary so that the masses will at least begin to feel comfortable with computers. This is where the ST Pad (or STylus) comes in. Its simple-to-use, pen-input interface could be the answer that would get more people to buy computers. There's still the problem for what they're going to use it. Writing notes, memos, forms-perhaps, but not with a $2,000 computer. Eventually, though, the price will come down, thanks to Atari's low-cost production. However, when you hear about pen-based computers and interfaces, you hear about Go Corp. and sometimes Window's pen-interface. But you wouldn't hear about Atari and its STylus, even though it was shown at CeBit, one of the largest computer fairs in the world, in Germany where Atari has a strong presence. (Actually, I don't even think Atari should have showed it. It's not ready to be shipped, so why show it? We don't want to see something that we can't have for several months.) The same thing can be said for the Portfolio. Recently, HP introduced a palmtop which included Lotus-123 built-in. It looks very similar to the Portfolio, but it got much more press than the Portfolio. NBC even did a lengthy segment of the HP on their Nightly News, giving HP credit for inventing the palmtop. Certainly Atari didn't invent the palmtop (DIP of the U.K. designed the Portfolio and Poquet has their own palmtop), but they could have milked a little more of the credit for it. This is Atari's responsibility and no one else's. HP was at best third with a palmtop on the market, with Atari and Poquet coming out with one at similar times. If one was to get exposure for his product, he doesn't sit on his duff. The press in general isn't like '60 Minutes' where they actively investigate the stories. The stories in the ordinary press must be given to them, and then they may investigate to find more information, or just use what was given to them. This is the press release's function. They should be packed with more information than the press can use. And preferably without a lot of spelling errors like the glossy MegaSTe and TT brochures. The beauty about press releases is that they're far cheaper than commercials. The press will distribute the information for you to the masses in the form of news. I'm sure this is what HP did when they released their palmtop; they sent information to NBC, which then featured it in a long news story on their Nightly News. I majored in telecommunications (video production), not public relations, in school. Atari doesn't need me telling them what to do (maybe they do). I'd hope they'd have professionals who've been working for a few years in the field knowing how to promote the computers (maybe they don't). What Atari needs is enthusiasm. The company is hardly representative of its users. Look what happens when you get a few enthusiastic, successful users in there: Bob Brodie, Bill Rehbock, and others who have actually known what an Atari computer is and can do before they worked for the company. Atari needs employees who just don't work for them, but employees who know the value of and love Atari computers. They need employees who want to see the computer survive and succeed. Look at users on GEnie, Usenet, Fidonet, Fnet and Freenet. Look at Atari user groups! Atari would not be here today if it wasn't for those users and user groups supporting the Atari computers. I've used everything from MS-DOS to Windows to the Macintosh IIfx and always prefer using the ST. I often wonder why the ST doesn't have support like the other computers do. There are a variety of reasons, and piracy isn't one of them. I'm absolutely NOT condoning piracy, but there's a lot more piracy in the MS-DOS and Mac market, and you don't see them struggling. The main issue is that there isn't enough of a user base for a Microsoft or other large company to invest in the relatively small ST user base. If Atari users want more third-party support, the user base must increase. The way to increase the user base is simple from the user viewpoint: (1) tell a great deal of people about the power and affordability of the ST computers and (2) get the computers to them. Atari users have been telling Atari Corp. for years that the company must advertise. This is not news, and Atari apparently doesn't listen; if you do listen, Atari, lets here from you. In "Ogilvy On Advertising," a virtual bible on advertising, David Ogilvy of Ogilvy and Mather, one of the leading advertising agencies in the world, says in chapter 16, "What should you do in times of recession, when you need every penny to sustain your earnings? Stop advertising?" "If you stop advertising a brand which is still in its introductory phase, you will probably kill it -- forever. Studies of the last six recessions have demonstrated that companies which do not cut back their advertising budgets achieve greater increases in profit than companies which do cut back." Moreover, in chapter 9, he states, "You cannot rely on *short-term* advertising to turn the tide of hostile public opinion in your favor, to boost the price of your stock, or put a halo around your reputation." "Most corporate campaigns are short-lived because they don't start with any clear objective, and because research is not used to track their progress." Finally, he says, "Corporate advertising can improve the morale of your employees; who wants to work for an outfit that nobody has ever heard of? It can also make it easier to recruit better people, at all levels." As I stated, the second part of the issue is getting computers to the people who want them, and if Atari does indeed advertise, then people WILL want them. Mass market is the key here. You must make it very easy for the common person to obtain an Atari computer. Since there is a lack of dealers in the US from which to buy an Atari computer, mass merchandis- ers are the answer. Now, which computers should they stock? I think the STe and MegaSTe should be stocked by the mass merchandisers. Yes, I know the dealers don't like to hear that, but with a lack of dealers, this is the only way to get a lot of computers to a lot of people. The STe and MegaSTe are the home and business computers, respectively. The MegaSTe MUST get out to the public in large numbers because it's such a powerful machine at a good price, whereas the STe is the perfect machine for the home. I DO NOT think however that the dealers should be ignored. How about giving the greater discount to dealers instead of the mass merchandisers? Therefore, the dealers could have the benefit of having the lower price and attracting more customers. The TT MUST be sold to none other than the authorized dealers because it requires dealer support, which the STe and MegaSTe do not. Moreover, the dealer network should be developed to include a larger number of better-informed dealers. I am saddened to say that there are a lot of dealers who don't know what they're selling and couldn't help a TT user in need. If I'm going to buy something for $2,000 or more, I had better get good answers to my questions, and I shouldn't have to look any further than the person who sold it to me. If the person can't answer my questions, then they shouldn't be selling the product; it's that simple. In this age of inexpensive modems and computers, there's absolutely NO reason why Atari cannot better support its dealers either through a dealer specific BBS or roundtable on GEnie. Furthermore, with the mass market shipments of computers, there should be included in the box a list of authorized Atari dealers in the US. I don't mean a complete list of places that sell the Lynx and Portfolio, but a list that only has dealers that carry STe/MegaSTe-related products. If I buy an ST computer, I don't want to know where I can get a Lynx and Portfolio. The list should be a master list of all the dealers in the US -- not a regional list, because we all know how things get messed up and before you know it, people in Florida will get a list of dealers in California, and that's not the way it should be. This list should also be constantly updated. When one buys a computer, they shouldn't receive a list that's a year old; of course, recently updated lists would be available from Customer Relations, and this fact must be mentioned on the list. Finally, I think that a free Atari magazine subscription would be quite beneficial and a necessity to the new user. Here's a relevant anecdote: I consulted a new ST user for the past few months. He had just bought a used 1040ST and wanted some help with it because he didn't know how to use it. One of the first questions he asked me was if Atari was still in business. Another question he asked was if Commodore and Atari were one company. It certainly seems that way sometimes, doesn't it? Too bad Atari's stock isn't where Commodore's is. He is an example of a person on the outside, just coming into the inside. He was totally oblivious to the Atari world, knowing nothing about the company or the computer; he only bought the computer because it has MIDI ports and he was going to write his own MIDI software using ST Basic. (AAK!!) He didn't even know how to program, but was willing to learn. Take this test: try to go a week without touching or using your Atari computer(or just imagine doing that). Observe all the news Atari gets in the mass media. Go to your local bookstore. Read the newspaper. Watch TV. Hear no Atari, see no Atari. Pretty pitiful, isn't it? Well, this is what the common person gets exposed to. They don't know about Atari, if it's dead or alive, if it still makes arcade games <grin>, or what. This is completely Atari's fault, despite the incredible, tremendous ef- fort of the users, user groups, and people like Donald Thomas who want to spread the word. If Atari wants to become a big player, and I don't see why they shouldn't want to play with the big boys, they're going to have to sell a lot of computers and impress a lot of people. Their appearance at CEPS was very commendable and impressive, but a high-end niche isn't going to solve the problem. The high-end market demands a lot of support, and Atari and its developers are in no position to provide that kind of support yet. To impress and to get into a situation that can provide support the high-end market needs, Atari must sell computers. That's the bottom line. To sell computers, people must know about them. And right now, people don't know about Atari computers. People can't and will not buy what they don't know about. I don't know what difference my prose will make, but I hope it does indeed make a difference. What I've said has been said before many times by many people. If you would like to reach me, I just got a shiny, new GEnie account: E.KRIMEN. I welcome all praises and flames. <grin> EDITOR NOTE: Ed sent in this essay in response to our request for reader opinions and views concerning the future of Atari and what may be done to help. Hats off to Ed for a fine piece of work! ____________________________________________________ > CIS IN HONG KONG STR InfoFile CIS Expands to Hong Kong """"""""""""""""""""""""""""" COMPUSERVE EXPANDS NETWORK PRESENCE TO HONG KONG ================================================ COLUMBUS, Ohio, Dec. 21, 1992 -- CompuServe Incorporated has extended high-quality network access to the Pacific Rim with the installation of a local access point in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong node will be utilized by corporate customers of CompuServe's value-added network services and members of the company's online information service. The newly-installed point of presence, CompuServe's first in the Pacific Rim, will support asynchronous dial access up to 9,600 bits per second, and X.25 service for CompuServe network customers. "Installation of the node in Hong Kong complements our goal of providing easy, economical access for our customers from a variety of locations worldwide," said Greg Moore, CompuServe director of network marketing. CompuServe has installed local access points in 16 major cities in Europe, Asia and Canada. Overall, the CompuServe network is accessible from more than 90 countries via CompuServe-installed points-of-presence or gateway networks. CompuServe Incorporated provides frame relay, wide and local area networking services, business information services and software to major corporations and government agencies worldwide. CompuServe also provides databases and services to meet both business and personal interests to more than 1.1 million personal computer owners worldwide through the CompuServe Information Service. CompuServe is an H&R Block company. __________________________________________________________ > Announcing CONNECT! STR InfoFile A New Telecomputing Magazine """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Announcing...... CONNECT -- A New Telecomputing Magazine ======================================= Subscribe to CONNECT Now and Save! ---------------------------------- For a limited time, Pegasus Press is offering dramatically discounted subscription rates on its new magazine, CONNECT. Covering the major commercial online services, Internet/Usenet and bulletin board system networks, CONNECT focuses on telecommunications from a user's perspective. The first bi-monthly issue of CONNECT will be available in March, 1993. Issue after issue, CONNECT shows you how to get the most from the commercial online services you're using -- CompuServe, Delphi, America Online, Prodigy, GEnie and BIX. With columnists on staff to cover these services in depth, you'll find CONNECT a valuable resource. CONNECT also shows you what "free" networks like Internet have to offer. Every issue of CONNECT contains Internet coverage that helps you find your way around the biggest network in the world. But CONNECT doesn't stop there. BBS callers also receive a wealth of information from each issue. All varieties of computer platforms are covered in the pages of CONNECT, as are the many different types of bulletin board software and services found on these computers. Articles spotlighting BBSes in specific cities or similar categories (such as medical BBSes or handicapped-related systems) appear regularly. Finally, each issue contains platform-specific columns highlighting programs available online for IBM and Macintosh users. Of course, you'll also find hardware and software reviews in CONNECT. From high speed modems and LAN-based BBS systems to shareware terminal programs, we cover it all. Until February 28th, 1993, you have the opportunity to get a year's subscription to CONNECT for only $12. That's a 53 percent savings off the cover price! On March 1st, 1993, the normal subscription price of $18 per year goes into effect. This offer is available only to US addresses. Don't delay. Send in your subscription form, or call (313) 973-8825 with your VISA or MasterCard ready, and get CONNECTed today! Also, please fill out the questionnaire and return it with your subscription form. Your answers will help us better cover the topics in which you are most interested. CONNECT Discount Subscription Form ---------------------------------- [ ] Yes, sign me up for a year of CONNECT (6 issues) at $12. Send my issues to the US address listed below. [ ] I don't have a US address, but sign me up for CONNECT at rate below: [ ] $30 Canada/Mexico (surface) [ ] $36 Foreign (surface) Name: _____________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________ City/State: _______________________________________ ZIP: ________ - _____ Country: ___________________ Phone: (______) ________ - ____________ Where can we reach you online? __________________________ ___________________________________________________ [ ] Please charge my credit card [ ] VISA [ ] MasterCard Card #: ______________________________________ Expiration Date: _____________________________ Signature: ___________________________________ Make checks or money orders payable to Pegasus Press. To take advantage of the special discount rate, subscriptions must be to US addresses and postmarked on or before February 28, 1993. Return this form to: Pegasus Press CONNECT Discount Offer 3487 Braeburn Circle Ann Arbor, MI 48108 CONNECT Subscriber Questionnaire 1) Are you male or female? ___ Male ___ Female 2) What is your age? ______ years 3) What is your income? ___ $0-$19,999 ___ $20,000-$29,999 ___ $30,000-$39,999 ___ $40,000-$49,999 ___ $50,000 or more 4) What telecommunication services do you use (mark all that apply)? ___ GEnie ___ CompuServe ___ America Online ___ Prodigy ___ Delphi ___ BIX ___ PC Pursuit ___ Internet ___ Bulletin Boards ___ Other 5) Do you use your computer for ___ Business or ___ Personal use? 6) How many people use your computer? ______ person(s) 7) What system(s) do you own? ___ IBM or compatible ___ Macintosh ___ UNIX-based system ___ Amiga ___ Atari ST ___ Apple II/e/gs ___ Commodore 64/128 ___ Atari XL/XE ___ Other 8) How long have you owned a computer? ______ years 9) What level of computer user would you say you are? ___ Beginner ___ Intermediate ___ Advanced 10) I own: Will buy: ____ ____ A 300-2400 bps modem ____ ____ A high speed modem (9600 bps or higher) ____ ____ A FAXmodem ____ ____ A hard drive ____ ____ A removable hard drive ____ ____ A tape backup ____ ____ A CD-ROM Drive ____ ____ A memory upgrade ____ ____ Another computer 11) If you run a BBS, please fill out the following: BBS Name: _____________________ Number(s): _______________________ BBS Software Being Used: _________________________________________ Network address(es) if any: ______________________________________ 12) Comments: ________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ Advertise Your BBS in CONNECT! CONNECT is a new magazine focusing on telecommunications from a user's perspective, showing how to get the most from the places you call. The first bi-monthly issue of CONNECT will be available in March, 1993. Deadline to get your BBS advertised in the premier issue of CONNECT is January 31, 1993. Issue after issue, CONNECT shows you how to get the most from the commercial online services you're using -- CompuServe, Delphi, America Online, Prodigy, GEnie and BIX. With columnists on staff to cover these services in depth, you'll find CONNECT a valuable resource. But CONNECT doesn't stop there. BBS callers also receive a wealth of information from each issue. All varieties of computer platforms are covered in the pages of CONNECT, as are the many different types of bulletin board software and services found on these computers. Articles spotlighting BBSes in specific cities or similar categories (such as medical BBSes or handicapped-related systems) appear regularly. Signing up your BBS is very simple and inexpensive. CONNECT offers a choice of a one-line entry or a service ad, giving you blocks of 280 characters, to promote your BBS. For more information, and a copy of the BBS advertising form, please contact Patricia Snyder-Rayl at 3487 Braeburn Circle, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, phone 313-973-8825, or via CIS (70007,4640), Delphi and GEnie (unicornpub) or Internet (pegasus@grex.ann-arbor.mi.us). *********************************************************************** IMPORTANT NOTICE! ================= STReport International Online Magazine is available every week in the ST Advantage on DELPHI. STReport readers are invited to join DELPHI and become a part of the friendly community of Atari enthusiasts there. SIGNING UP WITH DELPHI ====================== Using a personal computer and modem, members worldwide access DELPHI services via a local phone call JOIN -- DELPHI -------------- Via modem, dial up DELPHI at 1-800-695-4002 then... When connected, press RETURN once or twice and... At Password: type STREPORT and press RETURN. DELPHI's Basic Plan offers access for only $6.00 per hour, for any baud rate. The $5.95 monthly fee includes your first hour online. For more information, call: DELPHI Member Services at 1-800-544-4005 DELPHI is a service of General Videotex Corporation of Cambridge, MA. Try DELPHI for $1 an hour! For a limited time, you can become a trial member of DELPHI, and receive 5 hours of evening and weekend access during this month for only $5. If you're not satisfied, simply cancel your account before the end of the calendar month with no further obligation. If you keep your account active, you will automatically be enrolled in DELPHI's 10/4 Basic Plan, where you can use up to 4 weekend and evening hours a month for a minimum $10 monthly charge, with additional hours available at $3.96. But hurry, this special trial offer will expire soon! To take advantage of this limited offer, use your modem to dial 1-800-365-4636. Press <RET> once or twice. When you get the Password: prompt, type IP26 and press <RET> again. Then, just answer the questions and within a day or two, you'll officially be a member of DELPHI! TOP TEN DOWNLOADS (12/30/92) PHOTOCHROME 3.0 AEO_SE2.LZH MADONNA IN PHOTOCHROME STREPORT 8.51 PREMIUM MAH JONGG PCSVIEW3.LZH SPC-3375 1.7 MARKIE POST ICD HOST ADAPTOR SOFTWARE GIF TO RAW CONVERTER All of the above files can be found in the RECENT ARRIVALS database for at least one week after the posting of this list. Please Note that in the case of online magazines, only the most current issue in the database at the time of this compilation is considered for the Top 10 list. Also, for all files, a submission is eligible for the Top 10 list for only four weeks after its original uploading. DELPHI- It's getting better all the time! *********************************************************************** > THE FORBES ARTICLE STR Spotlight The ACTUAL, COMPLETE Forbes Article """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" Re-print for reflection on the past year's more memorable events. The following is a reprint of an article appearing in FORBES, issue dated: AUGUST 3, 1992 ctsy of Drew Reid Kerr GEnie: D.KERR1 - DELPHI: DRKERR - CompuServe: 70372,3036 There have been no alterations in the text nor any additions. Reprinted by permission of FORBES magazine, August 3, 1992. (c) Forbes, Inc., 1992 CHEAP DIDN'T SELL ================= Computer game maker Atari Corp. is in trouble again, a prime example of the dangers of pinching pennies on everything from marketing to expense accounts by Dyan Machan Only a decade ago Atari Corp., the Sunnyvale, Calif.-based computer company, ranked just behind Coca Cola in name recognition. At its peak a cash machine that was owned by Warner Communications, Atari employed 10,000 people worldwide; sales were over $2 billion. But a flood of poor-quality computer games sent sales into a tailspin in 1983, and Atari lost $500 million. Warner sold the struggling company in 1984 to Jack Tramiel at the bargain price of $240 million in promissory notes. Tramiel built sales back up to just under $500 million a year by 1987. But today things are unraveling again. Sales were a meager $258 million last year, and falling. First-quarter 1992 losses were a staggering $14 million on $44 million in sales, and company sources say second-quarter results, due out in late July, will be far worse. Twenty-seven executives have either resigned or been fired in the past 30 months. Atari stock traded at 16 in 1987, but now bumps along at 1 5/8. What happened? Tramiel made a common mistake. He tried to duplicate a past success under very different market conditions. Tramiel's earlier triumph was at Commodore International, where he undercut the competition with cheap computers and spent next to nothing on marketing, promotion or overhead. The cheap strategy worked beautifully. Commodore's stock market value surged, putting Tramiel in The Forbes Four Hundred in 1987, although by then he had been pushed out of the firm and had sold his stake in Commodore. Could he repeat the trick with Atari? When Tramiel bought the game maker, he appointed his oldest son, Sam, now 42, as Atari's president and chief executive officer. Together the emphasized cheap computers over videogames -- in retrospect a terrible mistake in a world that was rapidly filling up with inexpensive computers. In 1985, Jack Tramiel rolled out Atari's new ST personal computers, an inexpensive line made in Taiwan. Atari launched the ST line in Europe, where Tramiel had contacts from his Commodore days and where there were plenty of companies to write software. Off to a good start, Atari made a profit of $44 million on $493 million sales in 1987. The good times didn't last very long. Miffed that Atari gave away prepackaged software with sales of its machines, European software producers stopped writing programs for the ST series. Another Tramiel blunder, because in the computer industry software sells the hardware. Then Dell Computer, Leading Edge and Packard Bell began selling their inexpensive computers in Europe. Last year Atari's European sales collapsed to $209 million, from $342 million in 1990. Meanwhile, Apple and Commodore were locking up shelf space and dealer loyalty in the U.S. market. And since the Atari ST didn't use the DOS operating system, software makers weren't much interested in writing new ST programs. Consequently, U.S. computer sales never amounted to much. To provide Atari with distribution outlets, Tramiel bought money losing Federated Group, a southern California consumer electronics chain, for $67 million in 1987. He put his youngest son, Garry, then in his mid-20s, in charge of Federated. Garry wasn't up to the job. A year after Tramiel bought Federated Group, the chain lost $124 million and Atari shut the doors. In videogames, Tramiel held back the introduction of the 7800 Prosystem for 18 months, opting instead to take the lower-cost route of updating an older system that couldn't compete with the more powerful Nintendo Entertainment System. When Atari finally did roll out the Model 7800 in 1986, it spent just a little over $300,000 promoting it. Nintendo and Sega were spending $15 million apiece promoting theirs. Nintendo now has an 80% market share. Unable to compete against Nintendo in the marketplace, the Tramiels sued Nintendo for antitrust violations. Last April a jury sided with Nintendo. In 1989 Atari blew another opportunity to knock Nintendo off its perch. Atari's portable videogame, the Lynx, had color graphics and was superior to Nintendo's black-and-white, more basic, portable Gameboy unit. But Lynx could run only four or five games, the result of cutting Atari's software development to the bone. Nintendo's Gameboy could run more than 80 games. Even after cutting Lynx's price to $99 from $179 to get closer to Gameboy's $89, Atari again went the cheap route and spent virtually nothing on national advertising. Result: Today Gameboy has 81% of the market and is sold in 16,000 outlets. That compares to 3% for Lynx, available in fewer than 3,000 stores. The Tramiels seems to enjoy competing against each other to save pennies. Example: In a confidential memo to Sam Tramiel, computer games president Michael Katz, who has since left, complained how Garry Tramiel refused to allow him to spend $54 to air-freight two cartridges he needed for an important presentation to a big client. Atari employees say father Jack personally checks expense reports to make sure that restaurant tips don't exceed 15%. When Atari lost the Nintendo suit, Jack Tramiel took day-to-day charge of the company away from son Sam. Sam has moved out of his fancy corner office into ordinary space, next to purchasing. Two new Atari products are due out in the next 12 months: the Falcon 030, a souped-up ST computer; and the Jaguar, the next-generation videogame console. But industry sources say that to launch both products with the promotion needed to give them a real chance would cost some $40 million. That's about all the cash Atari has on hand, and the company needs $24 million a year just to meet its operating overhead. One Atari official who spoke to FORBES on the condition that he remain anonymous, sums up the company's problem this way: "The Tramiels are not stupid. But their formula for success worked only once. They are not adaptable people." Not a good trait in any business, especially computers. **** One of our many readers says it all... from the FNET Conf : STReport Online Msg# : 21395/21400 Lines: 9 Read: 1 Sent : Aug 06, 1992 at 7:16 PM To : All From : Chris B. Herting at Fnet Node 556-Suitland-MD Subj : Atari. Yes, it has been quite a while since I posted SEVERAL messages criticizing Atari. Right after my messages were published in STR, I received many responses supporting my views. I also received messages telling me I was unfair. Atari can do no wrong. Something STR has been hearing for sometime. Now I think everyone has seen the proof, everyone has read the Forbes article. STR was RIGHT all along, and I was right to speak out. It is about time people start seeing the light, and the ones who haven't start telling the truth. Atari should NOW explain their actions.. TRUTHFULLY. _________________________________________________________________ > TRUE INSIGHT STR FOCUS! Timely Observations...... """"""""""""""""""""""" ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS OF COMPUTING AND ONLINE ACTIVITY by Joseph Turner We are very fortunate, those of us engaging in computing and online activity. Whether we are a local computer club member, member of an online service, shareware user or author, or manager of a forum in a major online network, all of our lives are enriched. We have access to people and information locally, nationally, even worldwide. Our lives can be immensely enriched by the resources at our disposal. Being enriched is not all that is involved, hopefully. We can be enriching, too. This article addresses some ethical considerations relating to various personal, club and online activities, and how we might not only be enriched, but be enriching also. To ourselves and to others. Three of the most important resources to me are my local computer club, the Mid-Florida Atari Computer Club, Local BBS systems, and Delphi, an online service accessible internationally. All three play an important part in my ability to enjoy my computing hobby, and each offers it's own particular benefits. Each also deserves a certain level of commitment on my part, too. All of us can benefit in our own way from whatever resources we choose to use, and we all can be a benefit to each other, to our computing/online lifestyle, if we choose. Let's look at some ways this can happen. A local computer club is something we all should be active in if possible, be it large or small. A computer club can give us a local file library, fellowship with others of similar interest, opportunity to check out a program or hardware we may be considering. We can share experience and skill allowing all to benefit. Being a member of a computer club is more than just paying dues and showing up to meetings, though. Most clubs will have elected or appointed officers, things need to be done, hopefully volunteering and a sense of service will prevail. Some folks will donate time, others may donate certain materials or talent. The President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer aren't the only ones that should be doing something, they need support and encouragement from the membership at large. Fund raising is one matter in which some ethical concerns arise. If the club raises funds by getting contributions for library disks, a librarian shouldn't enrich his own personal library for free, while other members donate for access to the library. A member should not "split" the cost with another member for the same library disk, that only hurts the club. If two benefit from the club library, two contributions should be made. In no case should anyone take advantage of position or otherwise unfairly benefit from any club activity unless the leadership and membership of the club approves and knows of such benefit. Fair is fair, if someone uses position to gain advantages at no cost that membership at large is expected to pay for, such advantage ought to be known to all and be exercised with a sense of propriety. Club members should try to give as well as get, writing articles for newsletters, showing a demonstration, serving in fund-raising and computer show activities are all ways practically any club member can be enriching, and enriched, too. Local BBS systems are another important resource. Message bases and games doors are great, but most BBS's have file areas. Those PD disks you got from BRE or files from an online service can be of use to others, too. In my case, being a member of over two dozen BBS systems, I can and do share files both ways. It's also nice, if you're able and a local SysOp needs you, to be a SigOp or assistant. Even a word of appreciation once in a while is great. Most of the time, the BBS is financed and supported by the SysOp's money, not yours. The one who pays for your enjoyment deserves your respect. Major online services are another important resource. Here I will speak specifically from personal experience. And, this experience will relate to local club membership, and local BBS membership too. I'm a member of Delphi online, am in most of the computer conferences and have used many of the system's resources. Most active in the ST Advantage conference, I see Delphi as the hub of my computing activity. Delphi provides files and information I use as CoSysop of a local IBM BBS, files and information I contribute to my local club, and files and information for my own personal use. However, Delphi, most specifically the ST Advantage conference, is not merely a resource I take from. That would be counterproductive. Several local BBS systems have provided numerous files <.MOD files> which I submitted to the ST Advantage conference. The PC conference, the ST conference, the Mac conference, and the Amiga conference have all provided material for other online activities. My local computer club, several local BBS systems and several people have benefited from Delphi, and vice versa, Delphi has benefitted from local resources. Here are some examples of what I'm talking about: 1) The PC area on Delphi has been of benefit to several local IBM systems. Business is business, I've recruited membership for Delphi, and found items to include in the databases on Delphi. 2) Numerous sources locally have provided .MOD files for the ST Advantage conference. I want the ST area to be prosperous, and getting good files for them helps achieve this end. The ST area has provided a variety of files and information of benefit to myself and others locally. 3) My local computer club library receives regular contributions of material, most from the ST area on Delphi. Of course, I do not provide so much that there is no incentive for members to also join Delphi, rather, I expect it. It's foolish if I provide so much stuff to my local club that all anyone wants to do is just wait for the next stack of floppies, the proper thing is to provide a responsible amount of support for the Club, and for folks to join in the fun and all of us prosper together. No Online Service, Club, or BBS is likely to prosper if the only user's around are leeches wanting a handout! 4) The BBS I CoSysop has been a major source of files for Delphi in the form of .MOD files. The PC area on Delphi was very useful in getting an initial stock of new doors games and some BBS programs to examine when the BBS was in it's initial stages. If I see a message from someone wanting such and such a file, yes, straight to Delphi I go to search the databases, be it ST, PC, Mac or whatever. It is all a matter of balance, of give and take. All give and no take leaves an empty space; all take and no give does the same. The primary ethical consideration, as relates to my own computing activity, is to be fair, and to be as benefitting as benefitted. Then, hopefully, we're all happy. I've heard some people, when I mention the idea that it's a responsibility for a user, of a online service or BBS, to support the service, say something to the tune of "You pay for Delphi, you don't owe them anything, they owe you!" Wrong. Whether a local SysOp pays for the local BBS, or I pay for access to an online service, I'm responsible to support the service! The money the SysOp or I pay takes care of equipment, phone lines and other infrastructure, the service part, that's where give and take comes in, that's the lifeblood of the whole kit 'n caboodle I'm talking about, the blood's gotta flow for things to stay warm and alive, and that balance needs to be there, no matter how good a heart ya have, it won't last long of more comes in than goes out or vice versa! ___________________________________________________________________ > NVN WANTS YOU! STR InfoFile Another Network Supports Atari! """"""""""""""""""""""""""" National Videotext Network (NVN) has recently added an Atari ST Forum to it's growing lists of available services. The Atari ST Forum is going through its final "construction" phases and will be available to NVN members by mid-December 1992. U.S. Videotel, founded in 1986, is an electronic information and interactive services provider. The U.S. Videotel Network launched in March of 1989, and provided electronic information services to the Texas market. "The nationwide launch of the National Videotex Network, which provides on-line data and information exchange services began on May 1, 1992." The future of NVN will be one which continues to remain sensitive and responsive to market needs. Additional services and advances in electronic information will continue to be added, to provide unique and interesting services on an on-going basis. NVN service offerings can be broken into three categories: Basic, Premium, and Premium Plus. Basic Services -------------- Most of the Basic services are available 24 hours a day with no connect time charges beyond the basic membership fee. However, a select group have functions for which transaction fees are charged. Basic services are accessible through a flat rate charge of $5.95 per month. Premium Services ---------------- For Premium services, Members pay connect charges for the amount of time spent in a particular service. Premium services are accessible Monday through Friday for a connect time charge of $9.00/hour from 8 am to 6 pm, and $6.00/hour from 6 pm to 8 am; and on Saturday and Sunday for a connect time charge of $6.00 all day (6 pm Friday til 8 am Monday), central time zone. Premium Plus Services --------------------- Premium Plus services are subject to the same type of connect time charge as Premium services. However, a surcharge is also added to the connect time for these services. You can join NVN one of two ways. By voice phone 1-800-336-9096 (Client Services) or via modem phone 1-800-336-9092. You will be issued an Account # (usually within 24 hours) and will be allowed to access National Videotex Network. *********************************************************************** :HOW TO GET YOUR OWN GENIE ACCOUNT: _________________________________ To sign up for GEnie service: Set your communications software to Half Duplex (or Local Echo) Call: (with modem) 800-638-8369. Upon connection type HHH (RETURN after that). Wait for the U#= prompt. Type: XTX99587,CPUREPT then, hit RETURN. GEnie costs only $4.95 a month for unlimited evening and weekend access to more than 100 services including electronic mail, online encyclopedia, shopping, news, entertainment, single-player games, and bulletin boards on leisure and professional subjects. With many other services, including the biggest collection of files to download and the best online games, for only $6 per hour. MONEY BACK GUARANTEE! Any time during your first month of membership if you are not completely satisfied, just ask for your $4.95 back. GEnie Announcements (FREE) 1. GEnie Prime Time Rate Drop Becomes Permanent Jan. 1, 1993.....*RATES 2. Game UPGRADES and DEMOS are available in......................SCORPIA 3. Give The Gift Of Online Time .. GEnie Gift Certificates.....GENIESTORE 4. Check out the end-of-the-year business credit report.......TRWPROFILES 5. ONLINE COURSES in your future. REGISTER TODAY................CALC 6. Club Rates cut the cost of Winter '93 Tournament play in....BACKGAMMON 7. Worldwide Discounts at 12,000 Hotels available through....TRAVELSOURCE 8. 1992 Amiga Review/Top 100 Files in The 5-MINUTE Weekend News..STARSHIP 9. SEX, LOVE, Baseball & Weapons -- Calendars at.................PHARMACY 10. HURRY - join up, grab this game before it's too late..........SOFTCLUB 11. Explore Santa's Grotto in the adult space fantasy.............FED 12. Nominate NOW for the very first Lamp movie awards over at.....SHOWBIZ 13. Get help for PC Aladdin in Real-Time in.....................PCALADDIN 14. Find Out Which Home Office Products Were Tops in 1992.........HOSB 15. Come get the new FILE OF THE WEEK in........................MAINFRAME Welcome ****** ******** ** ** ** To the ** ** ** ** ** GEnie ****** ** ST ** ** ** ATARI ** ** Roundtable ** ** ** ****** ** ** ** ** *** ** *** The Official Online Resource of Atari Corporation *** ** *** Happy Holidays from the Atari Roundtable and GEnie! Darlah's Holiday Treat of the Month [page 475;9] is PHNXDEMO.LZH from LEXICOR2. This is the DEMO version of the Phoenix object render program from Lexicor Software. The LZH file also includes SPC & GIF sample files. This is a "must have" program for all ATARI computers. Phoenix supports different light sources, 3 different cameras, texture and image mapping: SPC, GIF & TGA are supported. This program renders FAST! ============================================================ The next Dateline Atari! with Bob Brodie will be held on Friday, Jan. 8th, 1993 at 10:00 pm EST. Please join us then ============================================================ The Atari ST RoundTable proudly presents The Independent Association of Atari Developers (IAAD) RTC, Wednesday, January 13, 10pm EST. The IAAD Board and many of its members will be on hand to share their experiences in the marketplace. Find out about the trials, tribulations, and joys of developing for your favorite computer! Ask about current and future products! Meet the folks who bring your computer to life with software and hardware enhancements! Attending for the IAAD: Dorothy Brumleve of D.A. Brumleve, President of the IAAD, Nathan Potechin of DMC Publishing, Chet Walters, WizWorks!, Jim Allen of FAST Technology, Nevin Shalit of Step Ahead Software Inc., Doug Wheeler of ICD Inc., John Eidsvoog of CodeHead Technologies, Chris Roberts of Dragonware, John Trautschold of Missionware, David Fletcher of Ditek, Craig Harvey of Clear Thinking, Bob Luneski of Oregon Research Associates, John Cole and Lee Seiler of Lexicor, David Beckemeyer of Beckemeyer Development Tools, Mark O'Bryan of Paradigm Software Products, John 'Hutch' Hutchinson of Fair Dinkum Technologies, Greg Kopchak of It's All Relative and more... Regular Open Conference every Wednesday night, 10PM EDT, 7PM PDT DTP conference every Monday at 10PM eastern in room 3. GEnie Information copyright (C) 1991 by General Electric Information Services/GEnie, reprinted by permission *********************************************************************** > Time for a Change? STR Feature Is there a difference to be made? """""""""""""""""""""""""""""" THE ORDER OF THINGS FOR 1993 ============================ by Bruno D. Puglia For some time now, the order of things is that STReport and Ralph Mariano make references and comments about ATARI, and sometimes people, from a given frame of reference. Others outside STReport do the same thing except STReport and Ralph is the target. After all is over, the megabytes end up in archive files; what difference does it really make? None of these people, or ATARI, is going to change the order of doing what they do. Whatever ATARI, STReport, Ralph, or anyone else said, or did not say, word-wise, nothing is really going to change in 1993. What will be, will be. The order of things is generally fixed, so we continue to follow our own order and keep reading the comments in the online magazines or we just space bar them. Some people will get quite involved over this and that; and others could care less because in the long run, it makes very little difference to them. The important thing is that the battle continue with some aspect of professional point of view, whatever point of view they take. The readers are entitled to at least that much. Wordy half truths or misleading statements by any party will not sway most of us one way or the other. For the most part, we read between the lines anyway. As readers, we can make very little difference to the overall picture with regard to the order of things. It appears that as a writer, none of the comments have made much of a difference either. There is nothing wrong about a writing style which is from a negative frame of reference or slant. If someone wants a Falcon because they feel ATARI is the way to go, they will wait until they can buy it. For others, they may have problems with a monitor or keyboard and/or just decide to get a deal on this or that. They may even post the old ATARI for sale or go to a local auction. The pictures painted by words, by anyone, including ATARI, are null and void for the most part. Aside from not being able to get your ATARI repaired easily, the 2nd and 3rd party people are the backbone for ATARI Users. The bad guys are also part of that backbone. Negative or not, they keep ATARI alive, and that, after all, is the important issue. The Tit for Tat antics are just that; and the Tit for Tat leaves no winners. And, at best, it ends up as only Tit for Tat. The wish list for 1993 then, is that ATARI do its thing and sees fit to change their order of things and becomes a major force in the computer world, including the USA. Perhaps only this would give others so much good stuff to write about that the Tit for Tat could revolve around all the good stuff rather then this person or that person. As for me, I'm cheap; and as long as the ATARI keeps going and my old Tulins hard driving, I'll stay right where I am. My real hopes are that ATARI does not end up like SWTPC. If you have to ask what SWTPC is, then you'll know why I don't want ATARI to go the same route as SWTPC. Oddly enough it was about 1985 when SWTPC when down the tubes. Each of us, we will take 1993 in the order of things, and knowing that, all I have to say is : _ _ , _ __ _ , // ' ) / ' ) ) ' ) / // /--/ __. _ _ , , / / _ , , , / / _ __. __ '' / (_(_(_/_)_/_)_(_/_ / (_(<_(_(_/_ (__/_(<_(_(_/ (_ o / / / // ' ' ' (/ To ALL, from Bruno ! ________________________________________________________________ > VERY INTERESTING! STR Spotlight Something 'funny' is going on here! """"""""""""""""" NOTICE: THIS MESSAGE RECENTLY APPEARED; -------------------------------------- The editors of STReport ask that if you or anyone you know has a copy of the mentioned "call to arms" letter sent "en masse" on GEnie in the ST RT, please forward a copy of it to them. ------/snipped from c.s.a.st 02JAN92/---> From: jhenders@jonh.wimsey.bc.ca (John Henders) Subject: Re:STReport??? Message-ID: <H.eg.wgo5n4n7hdk@jonh.wimsey.bc.ca> Date: Fri, 01 Jan 1993 12:52:36 -0800 References: <C06tno.Hxv@ucunix.san.uc.edu> Distribution: world Organization: One of these days for sure Lines: 18 X-News: HERMES MMAIL 1.10 Rev. Dec 15 1992 MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit Interesting letter to be sent around at just this time. Atari's usual "shoot the messanger" strategy in action. If it's such an awful thing to have a free flag for commercial purposes on GEnie, how come most of the free flag holders are commercial developers? As with the latest letter in Znet which was published just after STReport dared print a reveiw of Comdex by an ordinary attendee who had the audacity to say it wasn't a wonderful show, it seems Atari will stop at nothing to silence ST Report. If this was sent to all attendees of the Atari roundtable, this means the letter was tacitly approved by Darlah, the roundtable sysop, as that is the only way the author could get this dropped in every attendees mailbox. -- "If Rush fans were braindead, why are there so Bruce Bufalini many people posting to alt.music.rush?" PSU a -------------------/snip snip --------> PLEASE.... forward a copy of the referenced message, STReport is _very interested_ in obtaining a copy. _______________________________________________________________ > DynaCADD 2D STR InfoFile "...a high-level 2D design package.." """""""""""""""""""""""" DITEK LAUNCHES DYNACADD 2D ========================== Ditek launches DynaCADD 2D, a high-level 2D design package for the Atari toretail for only US $289.00 Contact:Frank Staples, Ditek International, (416) 479-1990 Ditek International announced DynaCADD 2D for the Atari ST and TT030 computers. The package includes both versions and is now available. The Atari Falcon version will be available in January 1993. DynaCADD 2D is the 2D portion of Ditek's powerful 2D/3D Computer Aided Design and Drafting solution that has been in the market for the past two years. According to Oren Asher, President of Ditek, DynaCADD 2D will fill a specific market niche, "what we offer is a feature-rich, 2D design environment for under $300 that competes with, has more features and is much easier to use than anything out there. A significant portion of the market designs primarily in 2D. What these designers want is easy to use, high-level 2D functionality at the most reasonable price." "DynaCADD 2D offers the exact same comprehensive 2D functionality as our full 2D/3D version. Not one single 2D capability has been omitted. This new product typifies our sensitivity to the market and is being offered in response to many requests. If a designer only requires our 2D functionality for the meantime, we are more than willing to make it available. One can always take advantage of the 3D capabilities offerred in our other version later on", said Asher. Features such as online help, context-sensitive documentation and a well organized and intuitive graphical interface make DynaCADD 2D extremely easy to learn and use. DynaCADD 2D accurately sends all or any portion of any drawing at any scale, including best fit, to all popular pen plotters, dot matrix printers, laser printers, PostScript printers or disk files. A MAKEPLOT utility is included to create or change any plotter driver. A full Vector Font Editor is included to create new or edit existing characters or fonts. Ditek's head office is located at; Ditek International 2800 John Street, Unit 15 Markham,Ontario Canada L3R 0E2 Tel: (416) 479-1990, Fax: (416) 479-1882. ______________________________________________________________________ > CMC EXPANDS STR InfoFile The Computer Musician Coalition (CMC).... """""""""""""""""""""""" ** NEWS FLASH - A GEnie EXCLUSIVE ** Immediate Release to All GEnie Music Enthusiasts January 1, 1993 CMC EXPANDS - OPENING ITS DOORS TO ALL INDEPENDENT MUSICIANS WORLD-WIDE The Computer Musician Coalition (CMC), an international, artist-driven collaboration, dedicated to the success of electronic musicians world-wide, announces the formation of a new division, the Creative Musicians Coalition (CMC), dedicated to the success of all independent musicians including the non-electronic bread. CMC's success in the electronic arena has proved that there is a waiting, desiring, and enthusiastic audience for new music world-wide. CMC, because of its successes, is now able and capable to expand its offerings to include both electronic and non-electronic music. Therefore, effective immediately, CMC will accept original music submissions from all independent musicians including music solely acoustic, solely electronic, electronic/acoustic mixes, vocals, meditation, and the spoken word. CMC's magazine AFTERTOUCH - New Music Discoveries, also originally electronic music based, will broaden to include new music from independent artists in both arenas. Additionally, all CMC memberships including: Connoisseur, Artist, Dealer, Radio Station, and Vendor will expand to accommodate both categories. Ron Wallace, president of CMC, states, "I am amazed at the enormous acceptance by the general public for new music. It has always been my dream for the success of the independent musician, and I feel now the window of opportunity is wide open. It's time for all independent musicians to unite and get out of their basements for the world to enjoy. I offer each of them a dream-come-true and encourage their support in all CMC endeavors." For more information about CMC memberships, music submission procedures, and a free copy of AFTERTOUCH - New Music Discoveries write or call: Ron Wallace Creative Musicians Coalition Computer Musician Coalition 1024 W. Willcox Ave. Peoria, IL 61604 Phone: (309) 685-4843 FAX: (309) 685-4878 Or Email: S.GARRIGUS (On GEnie) _________________________________________________________________ > A LOOK AT THE FUTURE STR Feature Good Reading! """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" The Crystal Ball - 1993 Predictions =================================== by Merlin L. Hanson Compiled by: Lloyd E. Pulley, Sr. Senior Staff Editor What does all of the following predictions have to do with the ST, Atari or even computers? Not a thing. I found them amusing and hope that you do to. All the posts are from the Jerry Pournelle RoundTable on Genie and have been re-printed with the permission of the author, Merlin L. Hanson ---------------- In June, a story will gain currency that Bill Clinton is the father of a child by a mid-level chicken plucker at one of the big Little Rock plants. Clinton denies the story, saying "I never met the woman". In July, the National Enquirer prints a photo copy of a check from Clinton to the woman, said by the Enquirer to be for child support. Clinton clarifies his earlier comment, saying, "I mean we were never introduced. I guess maybe I might have seen her around town someplace." In August, a reporter for the Enquirer attempts to retrieve a Clinton fingernail clipping to use for genetic matching. Special Prosecuter Lawrence Walsh brings suit against the reporter for theft of government property. While the reporter is being flown to Washington for questioning, a wild SAM missile under test at a secret armory in Atlanta goes wild, unfortunately accidentally hitting the plane. Clinton sends Al Gore to represent him at the reporter's funeral. The press, overcome by this touching display of humanity, suggests that Clinton should be given the Nobel Peace Prize. In September it is revealed that the woman was a scullery maid in the "Little White House" in Little Rock during an early Clinton term. Clinton clarifies his earlier position by saying "She told me she was 'fixed'. This woman has no sense of ethics whatsoever. She will stoop to anything." Special Prosecuter Lawrence Walsh indicts the woman on a charge of lying to a future Democratic president. ---------------- April 1, 1992 Washington D.C. Stung by allegations from the American Bar Association that the Clinton administration had been taken over by 'tekkies', the administration acted today. The troubles started in February when it was disclosed that the Secretary of Energy, Hazel O'Leary, although an attorney, had actually taken the first semester of a physics sequence in high school. This was followed by rumors from undisclosed sources that O'Leary had a merit badge in fuse changing from her days as an Eagle Scoutess. The crisis was fueled by revelations in late February that Secretary of Agriculture, Mike Espy, had first hand knowledge that there was 'some kind of biological process' involved in the production of milk. The beleagured administration was hit again in March when ABA president Milton Feldman announced that the Surgeon General, Dr. Desmondino Forfour had no training in the practice of law. "How can you expect these people to administer a department when they don't even know the fundamentals of tort ligature?", Feldman said. Forfour, one of the few women allowed to be a priestess shaman in her native Botsowanaland was appointed to the office in late January. Today, Press Secretary Bubba Lordosis announced that Harvard Law School had waived the usual requirement that incoming students have a high school diploma and will admit Forfour to a special 'fast track' course and should have her law degree by the end on the current quarter. Highly place sources had speculated that there was going to be action on this persistent problem when the Dean of Harvard Law School, Morris Spiegelburger, was awarded a land grant for the state of Nebraska earlier this week. Lordosis categorically denied that there was any quid pro quo involved in the grant, saying "Dean Speiegelburger is a fine American. If he doesn't deserve Nebraska, who does?". ---------------- March 17, 1993 Hollywood, California Oprah Winfrey, threatened with a lawsuit by the producers of Opti Slim Fast for defamation of product, will reveal that Opti Slim Fast actually does work. The illusion that Winfrey has put on weight was caused by the fact that she has been pregnant for the last three years, according to a press release slated for publication today. "Stedman and I had a little too much of the bubbly one night and decided to consumate the marriage a few days early", Winfrey said. ---------------- August 13, 1993 Hollywood, Calif. Special prosecuter Lawrence Walsh announced today that he is bringing charges against former Austrian strongman Arnold Schwarzenegger of being a Nazi. When it was pointed out that Schwarzenegger was born after the end of World War II, Walsh said "These right-wingers are like pond scum. They must be eradicated. It is a well known fact that old Joe Kennedy was a Nazi sympathizer. Do you think it's just a coincidence that Schwarzenegger married Kennedy's granddaughter?" Charges against the great grandchild of Kennedy were reported to be 'on hold' for the time being. ---------------- February 1, 1993 New York City The H. Ross Perot late evening talk show debuted last night barely in time to be included in the February sweeps weeks. Perot said the main reason he took on the assignment is to keep in touch with his volunteers. "You know, my volunteers are the salt of the earth, God bless 'em". Meanwhile, rumors were circulating in Washington the Special Prosecuter Lawrence Walsh was investing allegations that Perot's 'volunteers' were being paid less than the minimum wage. Perots first guest was Bill Gates, wunderkind of the computer operating system business (an operating system is the software that provides an interface between a human being (the operator) and the hardware). Gates and Perot talked of 'nerds in the nineties'. Gates described a resurgence in the phenomenon of so called 'nerds' displaying impressive slide rules in an ostentatious fashion. The Japanese are believed to have a scientific calculator under development that is disguised as a slide rule, complete with a rigid leather case and swivel and hook for attachment to a belt loop. Perot's second guest was rock star Prince. He regaled the audience with anecdotes resulting from an experience when he wore rouge into a biker's bar in Newark. "From now on, just false eyelashes and a little blush is enough for places like that", he said. The glut of late night talk shows is not actually worsened by the Perot show since he took over Whoopi Goldberg's old slot. Ms. Goldberg starts her new job as CEO at General Motors next Monday. ---------------- Predictions: Delta Burke's TV show will fail and she will become a theme park. ---------------- Nov 17,1993 Tokyo, Japan Panasonic, one of the leading manufacturers of television sets demons- trated their new "feelyvision" adaptor yesterday. A lightweight feelyvision module rests in the lap of the viewer and can create the sensations of warmth, or an agitation varying from what is described as a mild squirming to a violent 'thrusting'. The module is controlled via infra-red signals (much like a conventional remote control) from a specially modified Panasonic television set. The FCC has not yet approved a standard method of encoding feelyvision TV signals in the United States and early units are expected to work only with rental video tapes which are not subject to government standards. Asked whether those tapes would be mostly X rated, the Panasonic representative simply responded with an inscrutable smile. ---------------- May 4, 1993 Washington D.C. Consumer activist Ralph Nader and Special Prosecuter Lawrence Walsh announced that they are forming a pro bono law firm to assist the impoverished in the inner cities. The firm will be financed by community action grants and the funds from recent settlements by the two principals. In the first case, Nader successfully represented a recluse, Herman Bodkin, who sued Exxon in the loss of his pet muskrat in the aftermath of the Exxon Valdez grounding. Bodkin was awarded $5 million for pain and suffering and loss of consort. "Old Herman has never been the same since his favorite pet sheep wandered off, the loss of the muskrat too drove him to despair", a neighbor testified. The other suit was won by Walsh in a case in which also, oddly enough, Exxon was the defendant. In this case, Exxon paid $7 million to settle a case were they illegally dismissed a ships' master after he was found drinking on duty by the Coast Guard. In an unrelated story, Exxon announced that the price of gasoline in California was being increased by seven cents a gallon (see Business Section). Special Prosecutor Walsh said he will stay on as a consultant to the government in several pending cases. He reported that he has almost finished taking depositions in a case wherein it is alleged that ex- president Ronald Reagan allowed his wife Nancy, to eat free at state dinners despite the fact she was not a representative of the United States or any foreign government. "Its an open and shut case of nepotism", Walsh said by telephone from his home in the Bahamas. ---------------- August 18,1993 Washington DC Press Secretary Jethro Bodine announced yesterday that first child Chelsea Rodham-Clnton will attend the Maryknoll Country Day School in nearby Alexandria Virginia. "There are some lovely public schools here in Washington that we would love to have Chelsea attend", Ms. Rodham said, "but we really want her to have more ethnic diversity in her little school mates than there is here." "Most of the children in public school are Americans", she we nt on. "The terrible events in Bosnia and Herzogovinia show how important it is that we all have cultural diversity". Maryknoll Country Day School is reported to have large numbers of students from Switzerland and England. ---------------- April 23, 1993 Washington, DC It was a flap reminiscent of the early Reagan era. The Reagan adminis- tration was ridiculed when it declared catsup a vegetable. It was an eerily prescient event; the Clinton administration yesterday declared chicken gizzards an edible protein fit for human consumption. On Friday, the Department of Agriculture added chicken gizzards to the list of recommended sources of protein for school lunches. Press Secretary Buford Gillis defended the action, saying "the Clintons consider gizzards a real treat. They save them for special occasions such as Christmas. There's nothing better than a mess of chicken gizzards for a Sunday dinner after a morning spell of studying the Bible." At the press conference Gillis passed out copies of one of Hillary Rodhams' favorite recipes; for gizzards aux lapin au poivre apres eglise (gizzards with rabbit and pepper for after church). "I used to make this for the girls at Wellseley, the president's wife said, "and they just loved it". "Chelsea and I sometimes get together in the kitchen and make them as a surprise for Bill", she went on. "I do so love being a mommy and precious moments like that". "And Chelsea's little schoolmates think they're simply scrumptious", she added. ---------------- March 7,1993 Los Angeles Doctors believe they have some new insights into how Dick Clark, perrenially youthful host of music programs stayed so young. Clark, who was born in 1929, died Monday at age 64 of hardening of the arteries. When cosmetician Fifi LaRue was preparing the body for viewing, she notice a row of very tiny stitches totally encircling Clarks' lower neck. Puzzled, she asked for help. Los Angeles county forensic pathologist Stanley Feigenbaum was called in. After examining the body, Feigenbaum said "The guy that did this was a real artist". My wife, she could use a few tucks and lifts, you know what I mean? Her, with this guy, I could trust." Doctor Feigenbaum estimated that the most recent head transplant took place about 1983. ---------------- January 27,1993 Washington DC President Bill Clinton, stung by charges that he has not appointed enough women to his cabinet, announced today that he will appoint Jane Fonda to head the Department of Happiness. This will be the 47th cabinet level appointment Clinton has made. "Surely the signers of the Declaration of Independence didn't mean it as simply an empty phrase when they spoke of the 'pursuit of happiness'", Clinton said when making the announcement. Clinton, who has never hid the fact that his marriage was troubled several years ago, explained "When I would come home, all tuckered out after a hard day of governen' and all that, I would have trouble doing my husbandly duties, if you know what I mean". "I would read Sophocles for an hour or two to unwind and then me an' Hillary would pop a tape of Barbarella into the VCR and the next thing you know, I was ready for anything. Never did see the end of the movie to see how it turned out" In an unrelated story CNN said it will broadcast an eight hour retros- pective on Saturday, "Clinton, the early years" which will be shown at 8:00 AM and repeated at 4:00 PM and midnight (EST). Since the president has only been in office for one week, material would seem to be in short supply. Staffers at CNN say they have 23 hours of Clinton jogging which they can draw on and two hours of Clinton looking sincere and concerned. "I'm not sure we can fit it all in", Sue Ellen Hatfield- McCoy said. ---------------- April 9, 1993 Columbus, Ohio The city fathers of Columbus, Ohio, stung by the lack of political correctness in their name have decided to rename the city. There has recently been a groundswell of criticism of Christopher Columbus, namesake of the city of Columbus, because of atrocities committed by him and his crew of explorers. Mayor Herman Bodkin, 64, said the city will be renamed Tiffany Ohio in honor of a young woman he met at a good government meeting in New Orleans. WHen asked what part the young lady played in the proceedings, mayor Bodkin would only say "She was in New Orleans because of the meeting. Let's just let it go at that, OK?". ________________________________________________________________ > A GUEST EDITORIAL STR Feature "1992 was not the "Year of Atari"... """"""""""""""""""""""""""""" RINGING OUT THE OLD, RINGING IN THE NEW WILL 1993 BE "OUR" YEAR? by Dana P. Jacobson 1992 was not the "Year of Atari" as we had all heard and anticipated. In fact, the past few years haven't really come too close to achieving that "goal." I'm tempted to wish that for 1993, but I'm really getting sick of that line! What will be, will be for all of us; all that we can do is hope and strive to make things happen positively in this coming new year. While we at STReport have always strived to be as informative as possible for our readers, we have, at times, failed to do so according to _my_ expectations. There have been times when we could have done better; hopefully that will change in 1993. This year, for STReport, things are winding down on a less than positive note. Controversies surrounding our stance on various topics has certainly not been "enjoyable" for our readers. The ongoing problems with ABCO cannot, unfortunately, be resolved within these pages. As much as I personally would have liked to cover this issue here so that matters could be publicly resolved, I fear that _some_ would view that attempt as less than complete and/or a biased one. Some of these same people believe that STReport and ABCO are non-separate entities (they are not the same) and wouldn't be able to distinguish an STReport's view from an ABCO one. I doubt that _any_ online magazine, or print one for that matter, would be able to cover this particular concern without having numerous complaints of non-depth or biased reporting. This is unfortunate, as I have suggested in the past that a non-biased publication investigate and report the findings, if it were possible, objectively. The best that I can provide our readers at the present is that I have discussed this matter with Ralph Mariano because I am genuinely concerned for his customers' problems _and_ for Ralph's business. Ralph has expressed to me that he is indeed concerned that he hasn't been able to satisfy some of his customers' orders as quickly as he'd like. He is doing all that is humanly possible to fulfill his obligations as quickly as possible. Whether or not that's good enough for all concerned, I cannot say. I hope to learn that all involved are satisfied in an expeditious manner. Another less than positive 1992-ending note is the latest news that Senior Editor Lloyd Pulley has resigned from STReport, effective in a few short days. Lloyd's contributions in STReport and online as senior editor have always been informative and enjoyable, at least for most of us. He may have ruffled more than a few feathers in the past, but his goals have been to inform and raise a few eyebrows, regardless of the possibility that by doing so he'd be taken to task. We'll miss Lloyd, as his shoes will be difficult to fill. Best of luck, Lloyd, for a prosperous and HAPPY NEW YEAR! 1992 didn't bring us any new products from Atari. It was hoped that the Falcon would be available in the U.S. before the end of the year, but it just didn't happen. Perhaps 1993 will not only provide us with the Falcon030, but also a new lineage of Falcon computers. Current Atari users have been made well aware of the abilities of the Falcon030; it's time for the rest of the world to also learn. One wish for 1993 is that Atari does follow through on its marketing and production plans; and that they manage to exceed everyone's expectations. 1992 has not been a good year for much of the Atari userbase, including users, dealers, developers, and publications. Atari users are dwindling as support has decreased. Dealers have altered their support to include non-Atari machines and peripherals to survive. Developers, for the most part, has maintained an even keel. Although there has been no marked increase or decrease in numbers, developers are still concerned over the future of the Atari market. Many, to survive, have expanded their product line to support other platforms. Atari- specific magazines have not flourished. Many are having financial problems in this dwindling market. 1993 will probably be the year to determine the fate of many of our small, but exceptional magazine publishers. I would guess that more will take similar steps to survive as has Unicorn Publications, publishers of Atari Interface Magazine, to branch out into a different market with their new magazine, "Connect". Even Atari's own publication, Atari Explorer, is facing difficult times. Certainly, we all hope that our limited sources of print information will once again take a turn for the better in this coming year. Atari shows in 1992 managed to once again be successful. Although there were a few changes in the show schedule from previous years, the "major" shows continued to be a great source of information, products, and enjoyment. Even some of the smaller shows have become a regular tradition and hopefully all of these shows will flourish in '93 and years to come. It's difficult to determine the successes or failures of STReport this past year. While we have endeavored to continue to provide the "other side of the coin", there have been difficult times because of our determination in not being a "mouthpiece" for Atari Corporation. Our editorial stance is one that has not made us popular at all times; and it has created some "enemies" over the years, unfortunately. But, we continue to do our best to point out problems as well as the great things that are occurring in our small "world" of Atari. My wish for the new year is that we at STReport can improve our relations with those at Atari so that information between us will be helpful to our readers. Open lines between everyone is really necessary in our ever-decreasing circle. We will continue to cover the major events as they occur, whether they be shows, online events, new products, interesting ideas - whatever. These are the things that our readers are most concerned about, as they are for us as well. Hopefully, now that the "political season" is behind us <<grin>>, we can leave the politics to the politicians; and not let them have an influence on our daily Atari lives. What will 1993 bring? It's anybody's guess, really. I'm hoping for a positive and fulfilling year for everyone. I hope that there will be plenty of new things for STReport to relate to you, our readers. We will strive to report on them as they develop to keep us all informed. This, ultimately, has always been our goal. I hope to learn quickly in '93 that Falcons will flourish in the U.S., and that all Atari supporters will once again have something to crow about (pun intended). I also hope that our lives improve in general, as times have been tough for everyone these days. The beginning of a new year always seems to bring about a new hope. To all of you, a sincere Happy New Year! _____________________________________________________________ > STR Letters to the Editor "...a place for the readers to be heard" """"""""""""""""""""""""" STR LETTERS TO THE EDITOR """"""""""""""""""""""""" Verbatim as received in EMail ----------------------------- Item 3764764 92/12/29 22:06 From: WALLY.W Walter S. Wilson To: BOB-BRODIE Robert G. Brodie DARLAH Darlah J. Potechin, Atari RTs D.A.BRUMLEVE Dorothy A. Brumleve FEEDBACK GEnie Feedback ST.REPORT Ralph F. Mariano Sub: ST Report 29 December 1992 TO: Bob Brodie, Atari Corporation Dorothy Brumleve, President - IAAD GEnie FEEDBACK Darlah Potechin, Atari ST RT Members of the GEnie Atari ST RT STReport RE: STReport - My vote of no confidence (my opinions as well) FM: Walter S. Wilson (WALLY.W) History: ST Report (Silicon Times Report) is an electronically distributed weekly E-Mag. The Publisher/Editor is Ralph Mariano; who also owns ABCO Computer Electronics "Full Line Dealer & Mass Storage" [1]. ABCO runs an average 8,677 byte advertisement in each ST Report issue (this constitutes an average of five to seven percent of ST Report). ST Report has historically editorialized (reported) from the, "Atari is trying to pull a fast-one" point of view, and has a record of stretched facts, contradictions, and bullying folks who disagree or take issue with things they print. DoubleSpeak is ST Report's native tongue when pressed on most issues. Onward: Recently, I've made myself aware of all the major complaints against ABCO Computer Electronics (also known as ABCO Computer Consultants). There are many, in fact, nearly as many as were lodged against Zephyr/etc. Recently, I've seen STR (ST Report) writers ("editors") harassing the Atari ST RT sysops and others who might call them on the carpet for numerous issues. Issues such as... STR's Non-accountability to its reader base STR's extremely lop-sided reporting of Atari-related items STR's apparent agenda concerning Atari and Atari supporters ABCO's "FREE" advertising in a pay area on GEnie via STR Valid complaints about non-delivery of products from ABCO STR's "quiet" stance in this issue concerning ABCO The obvious conflict of interest concerning STR, Mr. Mariano, and ABCO STR's unwillingness to actually report items that are public domain (FCC item regarding Class B for the Falcon030) [2] STR's vindictiveness towards people who point out these things ST Report's Publisher/Editor has an area on GEnie that is for letters to the editor of STR. Many issues of great concern are being touched on in this Topic, yet the Publisher/Editor doesn't address a single item. This same Publisher/Editor (who owns ABCO), has a bad rating with the Better Business Bureau in his home state, has many very unsatisfied customers, has a FREE FLAG on GEnie in the ST RT, gets free advertising for his company under the guise of an E-mag in a GEnie pay area, and is completely aloof concerning any of these complaints. It appears to me and others in the Atari community that Mr. Mariano is not "supporting" anything in the Atari community - except gossip and bad business practices. To add to this debacle, his senior writer ("editor") is akin to the "front line" in his GEnie defense squad, and nothing posted regarding Mr. Mariano gets past Mr. Pulley (either with his "official" STR stance or his "my own opinion" stance). It's gotten this ridiculous... In the ST Aladdin RT Mr. Pulley states as a fact that he _is_ leaving STR after the first of the year. Then in the Atari ST RT he and another STR writer ("editor") quibble over the fact that he said, "may be", and really hasn't made his mind up. This is just the beginning of the doublespeak in these issues. Who are we to believe; the ST Aladdin RT Lloyd Pulley, or the Atari ST RT Lloyd Pulley? STR writers ("editors") continue to harangue Atari Corporation and Atari users in general over this Falcon FCC Class B approval. This is after these writers were told where the information was (that the FCC had the information - which makes it public domain). They (STR staff) are still trying to convince the world that Atari is trying to hide something...in the face of publicly available information to the contrary. Thanks to Lloyd Pulley, posting under both his own "personal opinion" and his "official STR opinion" we've seen this incredibly drawn out harassment over "interpreting the rules" in the ST RT. Simply because he didn't like the fact that his objectionable message got deleted...now he's on this personal vendetta to police us all to death to make his point. I remember when STR covered the Zephyr computer store's questionable business dealings. They did in in their best hybrid 20/20-National Enquirer fashion, and pulled absolutely no punches. Now ABCO is involved in the very same type of questionable business dealings, and still graces the pages of STR with no (I repeat, NO) scathing editorializing... As a matter of fact, hardly a peep at all. Obviously ABCO is receiving some sort of favoritism due to the relationship it has with the Publisher/Editor of STR. This is hardly an "independent" publication we are talking about...hardly a credible source for unbiased information. This is an obvious conflict of interest. Even further back (and on several subsequent occassions) I can remember STR's scathing stance on mail-order places, and how they hurt real dealers. If ABCO is advertising in an E-mag that I receive in Sitka, Alaska, and they offer me ways of ordering through the mail...doesn't that make ABCO a mail order outfit also? These contradictions are rampant in STR's colorful history. What I have the biggest heartache with is this: These people have free reign in the ST RT. They have free flags, and this gives them unlimited online resources to continue this kind of abusive activity...and apparently Atari Corporation and GEnie and the ST RT approve since they (STR and its staff) are allowed to do all this and still maintain free flags without being accountable to any of us for what they do, say, sell, advertise, etc. Sincerely, Walter S. Wilson [1] STR No.8.50, December 18, 1992 under dealer listings [2] STR No.8.51, December 26, 1992 STReport Confidential Class 'B' Certification Aye -Nay? The author retains all rights to this letter. It may be used freely provided it remains intact and unedited in its complete form. =END= Dear Mr. Wilson; STReport is, in fact and practice, totally accountable to its readers and will respond to any responsible question asked of us relative to our publication's content. We cannot however, allow ourselves to be 'led or baited' into _defending_ any editorial opinion as they are just that; opinions, coming from either myself or one of our guest editors. As for the ABCO situation, you are seeing only one side of the coin. You have unfortunately, decided to take a stand, render a judgement and at the same time, offer an opinion without full knowledge of all the _facts_. On the advice of counsel, I am not at liberty to discuss the business affairs of ABCO Computers. ABCO will satisfy all customer orders and inquiries. In regards to the adverts that appear in STReport, we reserve the right to decide whose ads and at what times they appear in our publication. You make mention of the Zephyr reports in STReport, to be factual, all that was presented (over a year ago) were a few posts in STR750 from the ST RT and a reply in STR803 from Bill Yerger at Zephyr. In regard to your insinuations and accusations relative to the editorial content of STReport, you widely allude to actions of "double speak, contradictions, stretched facts and bullying tactics" in our editorials concerning Atari and its performance. It is indeed sad to see your perception so one sided. In the past few weeks Atari itself has proven this to be their "hat" to wear, not ours. As an example, I respectfully point out the 32 bit advert flyer and statements made during certain online conferences where Atari asserted their new machine being a 32bit computer. When in fact, its _now known_ it is _not_. To continue, a recent message posted by the parties involved with Game Works would indicate the 'rule book' about "bullying" was apparently written by Atari's management. As for our correspondents and editors "harassing" Atari RT Sysops, please allow me to point out that _never_ has any of our editors, correspondents or readers for that matter, ever engaged Nathan and Darlah's sysops in any "harassing contest". The true facts are that certain of Nathan and Darlah's sysops have been actively involved in an obvious ongoing campaign of badgering, baiting and intimidation. If anything, its the other way 'round. In addressing your specific list; The fact that this is here being read by you and our readers answers your indication that STReport is not accountable to our readers. We are and we respect the premise of accountability to our readers. "Lopsided" is a neat one sided way of saying we present the "other side" of the picture, as a reader, you and any of our other readers can obtain the fluff, wowie-zowie and company viewpoint from a number of other online and hard copy publications including Atari's own online publication. Because we present the flip side of the coin doesn't mean its "lop-sided" at all. But, we respect your opinion and will do better to make sure our presentations continue to present the facts. STReport does indeed have an agenda. The agenda is plain and simple we refuse to present the glowing, warm fuzzy nonsense. STReport will continue to present the stark facts of reality relating to Atari, its performance, management and products. One fact is the current Atari market is decimated, in shambles and when its reported as such its upsetting.. almost as upsetting as the price of Atari stock.. 1.12. The ABCO matter has been addressed but to add... All matters concerning ABCO are under the advisement of counsel. Your representations relative to ABCO have been duly noted. Conflict of interest? Hardley correct. STReport and ABCO might have some of the same principals. They are however, two entirely seperate entities. Additionally, L. E. Pulley has nothing whatsoever to do with ABCO nor do any of the other STReport contributors, correspondants or editors. The true agendas of anyone's viewpoint is a moot question in most cases, but when personalities and _personal attacks_ are allowed to flourish in an online service's RT, it becomes readily apparent that a real and sinister agenda is indeed part of the overall picture. Its sad to see, but its painfully obvious that the activities taking place in Nathan and Darlah's RT on GEnie are occurring with their apparent encouragement and approval. It almost appears as if the RT is totally 'out of control' or simply depending upon controversy, witch hunts and embattlements to keep activity up. You make mention of the FCC matter... please be advised all the steps to obtain a complete and accurate listing of Class B certifications issued to Atari, Atari Corp. and Atari Microdevices are being pursued. So far, the _only_ recent certification issued is for the TT030 and that certification is: EBAtt030 (this ID should be on every Class B TT sold in the USA). Its for a class B certification of the TT issued to the, now closed, Atari office in Texas. Our investigative process is and has been faithfully taken to the highest levels of the FCC. They too, are very interested in why, if the number has been issued, there's no record of it so far and why the company is seemingly reluctant to reveal the class B certification number they say they have for the Falcon. After all, its the law that it be placed on each and every unit sold in the USA. We will if asked, produce a listing of all certificates issued to Atari for the last 12 months. At this time, there is no listing available relative to the Falcon, Falcon030 or anything even close to such. The inquiry is ongoing however, and as soon as all avenues of research are completed, the final results will be made known. As of this issue, STReport still has not been able to verify the existence of a class B certification for the Falcon. To add to our efforts we include the telephone number to FCC BBS, where any user may call and obtain certification info; 1-301-725-1072. Additionally, since the TT has Class B certification, it would be nice to know if any Class B TTs were ever produced and sold. Speaking of class B, does anyone own a class B SLM 804 or SLM 605? In closing, it must be made clear that STReport's following a process of verification on the FCC matter is an honest and serious undertaking. If its perceived STReport is questioning the accuracy of the assertion by Atari's reps that the Falcon is FCC certified Class B, its an accurate perception in as much as we would like it verified. STReport has asked publicly a number of times from those who seem to have the "Certification Number" to make the number known. This has not happened. Not from Atari or any of the others who "claim" to have "verified" its existence. We still await the number. After all, its revelation can only serve to put this matter to rest and to allow the proper verification of all the facts pertaining to this matter. Mr. Wilson, I thank you for your taking the time to post to us. Ralph @ STReport International Online Magazine ___________________________________________________________________ > STReport CONFIDENTIAL "Rumors Tidbits Predictions Observations Tips" """"""""""""""""""""" Looking at some of our more "notable" efforts....... of course, there'll still be those who blindly swear we made it all up! How many remember the ever popular Crystal Ball? Was it wrong? NOPE! Its all come to be true!! From STR # 7.23 06/07/91 This was our "BEST"! ------------------------ STR Crystal Ball BIG SHAKEUP IS AFOOT! ---------------- RE-ALIGNMENT - LAYOFFS - BELT TIGHTENING CONSOLIDATION "THE IDES OF MARCH IN JUNE?!?" The CRYSTAL BALL is glowing WHITE HOT! Could it be true? Is there going to be anywhere between a 30-50% layoffs? IS... "HE BACK IN CHARGE?" Is there really going to be a consolidation of subsidiaries? Are there to be DEMOTIONS, TITLE CHANGES, MORE WORK-NO RAISES? Second Generation TT030 "The Real Thing" @ 01/01/92 >FALCON< No "TAMALES OR MAPLE LEAVES" just one big bag of tricks? "DOWN UNDER" being throttled back? What do you mean; YOU DON'T LIKE RIDDLES! How about; "TV STARS FINISH LAST!" Yo Adrian! We ain't talkin' about the Johnny Carson show! For the whole story ..... stay tuned!! From STR # 8.01 01/03/92 Boing! Its not real folks...... ------------------------ Mr. Supersnoop has been buzzing all 'round the west coast during the past two weeks. Most of what he found were indications of an "obvious and strong rebirth of Atari." He was told by one dealer in the SF Bay area; "The product flow has been greatly enhanced." "The selection of computers available would satisfy even the most demanding customer." "Dealers are once again becoming abundant nationwide and are well stocked." "The bundles (package deals) of software and hardware are moving quite well", he heard from a number of satisfied dealers. He also noted that while he was testing a new program on a brand spanking new class B TT, the TV across the room was carrying a NEW, never seen before, highly animated Atari advertisement for the "Atari Family of Fine Computers" where they emphasized "A computer for every budget!" Hmmm.. that was on a National Network TV channel! He gleefully noticed. As the ad proceeded, a loud bell began ringing in the background. Our snoop dutifully struggled to turn the TV sound down. As he reached for the control... he woke to the familiar sound of his trusty old alarm clock. Well.. some people do have "nice dreams"! Let's, all of us, hope this dream comes to pass. From STR # 8.02 01/10/92 Conservation? ------------------------ Seems the "IDES" are restless and its not even March yet. Well CES happened and where was Atari? In an off the main drag one night stop for cocktails and fruit cups for Lynx folks. Apple made a big deal here with a speech delivered by their 'main man'. One rumor heard all over the place was that Atari might be 'for sale'. There is another US magazine in the makings, seems there was a split-off from a familiar existing newspaper style magazine. Hmmm, seems there may be some real infighting about to occur over the recently vacated responsibilities of Greg Pratt's. Rumor also has it that there are less than 120 employees with Atari worlwide. On the humorous side, it seems the crayons "melted" so that deal will be further delayed, but then who cares? Its a situation whose time has come and gone. How many authorized dealers left in the USA? Ziggy sez less than 20! From STR # 8.04 01/24/92 Check the Dates Folks.... ------------------------ Falcons & Sparrows! Avian Paradise. Deep Throat tells us its rumored the STT040 (FALCON) is a real "muscle machine" of the upcoming future for Atarians. Its mentioned there will be either a "Cube or Tower" available for Falconers with the Tower having eight bays. 24 bit color will be the order of the day as will a full 32bit bus IO. Its also rumored Ethernet will be included and it will have multiple VME slots 3-6-1u types accepted. A Floptical Drive (Insight) is alleged to appear in one of the bays. A 1 gig Hard Disk is rumored to become available too. Its also rumored Sparrow lovers are to see a less costly version of the TT040 in either the Wedding Cake or Pizza Box style Cabinet. From STR # 8.08 02/21/92 Another Usergroup is disillusioned ------------------------ Of note, from the LCACE newsletter, listed in the minutes of the General Meeting posted in their February, 1992 issue, it states; "All bills have been paid for the Computerfest, Hybrid Arts still has yet to pay the club the $425.00 it owes from the Computerfest. This is the only bad debt from the show. The Club is still short the TT system promised us by Atari. It may never be delivered. Larry has said that Bob Brodie has talked of LCACE doing another show at the same location in July or August of 1992. We shall have to receive the TT and resolve other issues prior to discussing a future show. There was a lengthy post mortem of the Computerfest. It seems everybody had something to say about the show both positive and negative." Why? Why must so successful a show be marred by the obvious "dropping of the ball" at Atari? Who were the key liaison personnel involved in organizing the show. Perhaps, by this time next week, "Mr. Usergroups" can make sure LCACE, a very active Usergroup, is taken care of and satisfied. Atari, as related elsewhere in this issue, is about to go to trial in a matter involving Nintendo over the video game business. Although the particulars of the trial, charges and counter charges are rather involved, the point Atari is making is very clear and well understood. Atari is depicting a monopoly and freeze-out in the game market put together by Nintendo. In this case, Atari has our full support and blessings. Trust busting should be a number one priority for a large number of US corporations who are being strangled by offshore big bux interests. The very economic life of the USA is being steadily drained away by these interests. Kudos to Atari for bringing this serious matter to a front burner for the nation to see. The offshore cartels have all but destroyed the US steel industry and many others are on the verge of extinction due to the "economic war" waged against the USA. This particular trial demands close observation as it will certainly set a precedent for seeking relief on the part of many other, long suffering, US corporations. From STR # 8.10 03/06/92 The Rumor Mill is flirting again... ------------------------ The (Sparrow & Falcon)(68030-68040) are rumored to be announced sometime in the second quarter. Atari Corp is very tight lipped when asked about performance stats, but the word is these machines are hot! In fact, most "learned ears" say they will sport true SCSI ports and not ASCSI ports. Hopefully the new products will be ready to ship soon after their initial showing. Rumor also has it that a few Books have already, or are about to ship. Good news sure feels nice. In addition, the ABC line of clones are being given serious attention and could possibly be enhanced and priced competitively. 1040STe units seem to be in very short supply, while the MSTE units are doing very well. From STR # 8.14 04/03/92 Some people have more problems...... ------------------------ Lexicor has determined and confirmed that it's former distributor and product manufacturer is making and selling PIRATE copies of Lexicor's software products. If you have purchased any Lexicor products from RIO COMPUTERS we suggest that you make the following tests to see if you may have purchased a PIRATED program. Re: Leonard's conference. To me, he sounded like Ollie North at a Senate Investigation. He didn't really say anything about anything, and didn't tell anyone anything that we already don't know. There were many references to Email replies to some of the questions, I guess he just didn't want to devulge any information. From STR # 8.15 04/10/92 Look who's climbing up on the stage! ------------------------ From: The San Jose Mercury News, Thursday April 2, 1992: ATARI DELAYS 4TH QUARTER REPORT =============================== Troubled Atari Corp., the Sunnyvale manufacturer of personal computers and game hardware, said Wednesday it has notified the Securities and Exchange Commission it will delay reporting results for its fiscal 1991 fourth quarter, which ended Dec. 31. By law, the company had until March 31 to report the results or file formal documents with the SEC extending the filing date. A spokesman for the SEC in San Francisco said Atari is technically in violation of securities laws even if it has filed for the extension, but that enforcement action is unlikely if the company releases its figures "within a day or two." Companies that seek such an extension often do so in order to renegotiate terms with lenders and other creditors before releasing unfavorable results. Atari earned $1.6 million on $49.2 million in revenues in its third 1991 quarter. Atari's chief financial officer refused to accept a reporter's calls, saying through a secretary that results would be available "within a couple of days." Atari's shares closed unchanged at $2.75 in American Stock Exchange trading Wednesday. From: The San Jose Mercury News, Saturday, April 4, 1992 ATARI LOSES $4.4 MILLION ON SHARPLY LOWER SALES =============================================== Late Friday, troubled Atari Corp. reported a loss of $4.4 million for its fourth quarter on sharply lower revenues. The 8-cents-per-share loss for the Sunnyvale maker of personal computers and video-game hardware came on revenues of $96.2 million. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 1990, the company made a profit of $8.8 million, or 15 cents per share, on revenues of $151.9 million. The 1990 quarter's profit figure, though, included $28.8 million in extraordinary credits. The 1991 quarter included a $2 million credit for debenture repurchases. The company cut its operating loss for the 1991 fourth quarter to $9.4 million from $22.2 million in the 1990 quarter. For the year, sales dropped to $258 million from $411.5 million [Ouch! -GW] in 1990. Net income for the year was $25.6 million, compared with $14.9 million for 1990. But the 1991 figure includes a gain of $40.9 million on the sale of the company's manufacturing plant in Taiwan. And the 1990 profit included $35.7 million in extraordinary gains. The operating loss for 1991 was $18.7 million, compared with a loss of $25.2 million in 1990. Buying back debentures helped the company cut interest expense, which fell from $4.1 million in 1990 to $287,000 in 1991. In a statement, Atari President Sam Tramiel said, "The company has restructured its overhead and is focusing on the improvement of its balance sheet and the development of new products." On Wednesday, the company notified the Securities and Exchange Commission that it would delay reporting results for the fourth quarter. From STR # 8.17 04/24/92 The Revolving Door is Healthy! ------------------------ Recent developments have found Gary Weiner, Intn'l Sales has left Atari. His old office, beneath JT's has been dubbed the "office of death", has once again fulfilled its ominous reputation as being the last stop at Atari. Also... Atari's Explorer Magazine and ZNET online will undertake a joint effort in producing an online newsletter. According to our sources, the current editor of Explorer will oversee the operation. Ron Kovacs will assume the duties of editor of the new online newsletter. Frequency of publication is expected to be bi-weekly. From STR # 8.18 05/01/92 It Don't Come Easy........ ------------------------ Courtesy San Jose Mercury News 05/01/92 14:47:38 Atari Corp. was unsuccessful in its antitrust suit against Nintendo of America. The jury found in favor of Nintendo. The jury did however, find that Nintendo did have monopoly power in the videogame market but that Nintendo did not monopolize that market. The jury was also unable to reach a decision on two other points regarding monopolization and restraint of trade. During the 10 week trial, Nintendo claimed it had only engaged in vigorous competition and that its exclusive had legitamate business justifications. From STR # 8.20 05/15/92 A Real Loss...... ------------------------ In what can only be termed a surprising move, one of our Atari observers reports of a rumor that Atari Explorer's base of operations may be moved from Astoria, N.Y. to Sunnyvale, CA.. If such a move were to occur, it was also stated that its highly successful Publisher/Editor John B. Jainschigg, would not be part of the move. From STR # 8.21 05/22/92 Let the Users be Heard! ------------------------ The results are in! The questions were simple yet unsettling to some. But the answers are real as was the participation on CIS and all the other services, along with both the private and public networks. Also included were write in replies from Usergroups. Th results are as follows...... 1139 REPLIES WERE RECIEVED, THE BREAKDOWN IN % IS AS FOLLOWS: QUESTION 1 - Would you prefer a single case (1040 style) unit or a Mega ST/TT style unit with detached keyboard? (pick one or the other only) **** RESULTS ATTACHED: 11% """"""" DETACHED: 89% 2 - If price were a consideration, how much more would you spend for a detached keyboard: A- $50.00 or less B- $100.00 (approx) C- $150.00 (or if price is no object) **** RESULTS A - 30% """"""" B - 65% C - 05% 3 - Would you prefer (or be satisfied) with a connector that allowed you to plug in a detached keyboard such as that used on the Mega or TT style computers (the keyboard being an extra cost item)? **** RESULTS YES - 65% """"""" NO - 35% From STR # 8.23 06/05/92 More "Downsizing"?? ------------------------ According to our sources, Alan Pratt, the guru of Multi-Tos, worked his last day at Atari today. Pratt long known for his programming prowess, has accepted a positon with Taligent, the joint venture between Apple and IBM. Ken Badertscher is slated to assume Pratt's duties with Multi-Tos. Recent changes at Atari have shown some merit in planning for the future. Congratulations to James Grunke! James Grunke has assumed all of Don Mandel's responsibilities. Atari has reduced the size of the staff at Atari Germany comparable to that of Atari Canada. Atari Germany, long the bulwark of Atari in Europe, undersent the size reduction due to undisclosed reasons. From STR # 8.24 06/12/92 A little "in house jazz".... ------------------------ A number of "loans" appeared in the company report.. Name Amt. Owed Int. Rate ---- --------- -------- Robert Gleadow $300,000.- 12% Eli Kenan $151,000.- 12% August Liguori $ 45,000.- 12% Richard Miller $145,000.- 10% (unsecured loan) Gregory A. Pratt $125,000.- 10% Alwin Stumpf $795,000.- 10% & 12% (2 unsecured loans) Paul Welch $115,000.- 12% Year Ending Dec. 31st, 1990 Samuel W.L. Chin $130,000.- 10% (unsecured) Eli Kenan paid back $134,000 & Atari wrote off $17,000. Steven M. Kawalick $290,000.- 10% (unsecured) August Liguori $ 85,000.- (borrowed another $43,000 @ 10% unsecured this year and paid back $3,000.-) Richard Miller Hasn't paid back any of the money he borrowed in 1989, but there are no new loans to him. Gregory A. Pratt $ 10,000.- (hasn't paid back previous loan. New loan is unsecured at 10% interest) Alwin Stumpf Hasn't paid anything on his 1989 loan Paul Welch Hasn't paid anything on his 1989 loan Year Ending Dec. 31st, 1991 Samuel W.L. Chin $ 88,000.- Paid back $42,000 of what he borrowed. Robert Gleadow His note was cancelled & related stock reacquired by the company. Steven M. Kawalick Paid $10,000.- of the $290,000.- he borrowed August Liguori Borrowed another $11,000.- unsecured at 7% and paid back $111,000.- on previous loan. Richard Miller Paid nothing on his loan Gregory A. Pratt Paid $25,000 on his loan and now owes $110,000. Alwin Stumpf Paid nothing on his $795,000 loan Paul Welch His note was cancelled & related stock reacquired by the company Unless otherwise noted, all of the loans were secured. At the bottom of page six of the Notice of Shareholders' Meeting had this note: "In November 1991, the Company repurchased 75,000 options to purchase 75,000 shares of stock from Gregory Pratt, a Director of the Company for $1.00 per share for a total price of $75,000. Mr. Pratt has resigned as a Director and employee of the Company in January 1992, at which time he transferred to the company 63,150 shares. Shares transferred together with the $75,000 were used to repay Mr. Pratt's indebtedness to the Company of approximately $135,000." From STR # 8.26 06/26/92 Oh please... tell me .... ------------------------ Bob Brodie posts; " It's obvious to me that my time for onlines has dramatically diminished. So I want YOU to help me decide what networks I need to be on. Right now, I have accounts on GEnie, the FNET, CIS, and Delphi. It's my opinion that I'm being unfair by having those accounts if I'm not going to be online there. So this is your chance to guide my decision about what networks I should be on. I'll be tracking my e-mail in the next month closely on all of these services, looking to see where the most activity is. My guess is that it will end up being GEnie and the FNET. But I don't want to guess! Please send me your feedback on where you'd like to see me online to the following addresses: GEnie: BOB-BRODIE CompuServe: 70007,3240 Delphi: BOBBRO FNET: Bob Brodie at Node 319 Here we go again folks, let's see I'll try and do this is my very best "Walter Winchell" voice.... Dateline! New York; Word has it the Atari Notebook is on a trip back to the drawing boards... seems somebody decided it needs to be backlit and go faster... Also, a number of the notebooks that reached the US shores arrived DOA. Time for some serious adjustments. On the International Scene.. the word is; FSM GDOS is up for a serious rewrite. Appears certain code in the program must go and new "just as good or better" code implanted! Word just in; the "Falcon" ie., the new 16mhz 030 single piece machine will debut on time but that full mass distribution may not be seen until the middle of the first quarter of '93. It appears there is a 'log-jam' on the acquisition of the "special chips" needed to complete these new machines. On to the west coast.. in Sunnyvale some astonishing changes are a foot.. according to our snoop... the changes are only for the good of Atari and its future. Online activities are being curtailed in certain areas due to recent embarrassments. This reporter was told "we'll not hear about the changes as such.. they'll just happen ....quietly. Personnel changes are also expected. From STR # 8.29 07/17/92 There goes that _door_ again! ------------------------ According to our sources, Larry Segal and Dana Plotkin are no longer part of the LYNX division in Lombard IL. The Lynx, a highly successful handheld game machine is one of Atari's best selling products. Also its reported the operation of the Lynx division will be brought back to Sunnyvale and placed under the capable guidance of B. Stollar. At the same time the Lynx story was breaking for us, another of our sources informed us of Ron Smith's coming on board at Atari. Smith, whose marketing and management skills expertise are very desirable at Atari, is reported to have a one year contract (non-interference). Lotsa luck to you Mr. Smith! From STR # 8.31 07/24/92 Its _STILL_ at it! ------------------------ When is the constant flow of bright young minds going to stop zipping through Atari's grasp. It never ceases to amaze this reporter when another of the Bright young stars in the computing industry disappears from the halls of Atari. Mike Groh has now joined that long, long procession of bright young men who have spent what amounts to a vacation time in Sunnyvale. Why can't Atari hold onto the bright minds? Why is it that those who have the ideas and the drive soon bite the bullet? Tough questions all.. Forbes said 27 left in a short time. Now, make it 28. No wait, we forgot about John Jainschigg make it 29. Uh oh, now there's Gary Rodgers he is also gone.. make it 30. <sigh> Oddly enough Atari's head honchos seemed to be quite upset about the Forbes article but not the way most would imagine. It appears they were more "tight-jawed" about the office changing remarks than they were over the criticisms of the company and its lackluster performance. In fact, our snoop sez the ruckus raised over the remarks about Sam's "NEW office" was "quite a scene and lasted all day long." Ah yes.. kill a leak and watch a flood. Only from graduates of business 101 and a half. From STR # 8.33 08/14/92 Let the "TRUTH" be known! ------------------------ This issue contains the fabled "Forbes Article" and the online conferences about the Falcon, its release etc., where Sam made all the glowing and wonderful assertions that are now a matter of the old, "Ho Hum" record. From STR # 8.34 08/21/92 Genuine reactions to Atari & the Falcon ------------------------ This past weekend, (08/14/92) in Hartford Connecticut, there was a meeting prior to the actual AtariFest. It was for dealers only. In attendance were the pride of Atari as far as top quality dealers were concerned. When Ron Smith, the new marketing guru for Atari made it known that this Christmas would also be a bleak affair product wise, the dealers could stand no more. They let Smith and Brodie boisterously know, in no uncertain terms, of their outrage and intentions for the future as far as Atari was concerned. One dealer, who shall remain unnamed, claimed it was "business as usual" with the old "hooray for us and the hell with you" attitude in full blossom again. Our reporter, (in attendance), was informed by at least four dealers that they were going to sell what was on hand and then that would be it. One other dealer was overheard saying he had been "had" for the last time by Atari's hype. Another dealer said of the Falcon; "Its a 1040STe on STEROIDS!". He embellished further; he would be "hard pressed to present this machine in a serious environment... say alongside a TT030 and a MSTe." He did point out; "though the machine has impressive specs, its appearance is the pits. Serious computerists seek out units with a separate keyboard and expansion slots. I don't see this machine making any inroads into the business or commercial computing community." The general opinion after the meeting's close was if Atari didn't get these machines out and in quantity before the end of the year it was all over. The same dealer said; "Of the twenty some odd full service dealers around the USA, they'll all be gone before long if things don't change and change fast." From STR 8.35 08/28/92 Let the 'bias' come through..... ---------------------- This issue carried the now everlasting, Satirical Translation of Sam Tramiel's online conference. In the same issue was an excellent, in-depth report of the wonders of the Falcon being shown at Dusseldorf 1992 August 21-23, 1992. What did we hear about/ You guessed it the satire was torn apart by.... agian you guessed it the same "crew". But not a word about the excellent coverage afforded Atari and its Falcon. Oh well, so what else is new? From STR # 8.37 09/11/92 Here we go _again_! ------------------------ About the FCC.... Class B for the Falcon, an excerpt from the online conference hosted by GEnie's ST RT with B. Rehbock on Sept. 09, 1992. <[Chris C.] C.CASSADAY> In Sam's RTC, he mentioned that he was hoping for a home voice-mail type system to be developed for the Falcon030. Is Atari, itself, developing any new applications of this nature to help 'get the ball rolling', so-to-speak? Also, is it safe to say that the Falcon 030 is 'class B certified'? <B.REHBOCK> The F030 has passed all of the Class-B tests; we are waiting for the actual government paperwork so that we can ship consumer machines with labels. (That why the late Oct. timeframe.) From STR # 8.38 09/18/92 Plenty of "dirty laundry" for everyone... ------------------------ The following item appeared in our issue, as a result we received three "dare you" type letters from various west coast concerns. Interesting? Rest assured the follow-up is in the works and _will_ be published. "According to our highly confidential and reliable sources, a major west coast developer may be under investigation by the authorities. Its further reported that according to our reporter's sources, the alleged investigation involves missing imported merchandise, a local dealer's involvement and other improprieties allegedly concerning consigned and/or loaned computer and printing equipment. Additionally, its reported the dollar amounts are alleged to be close to thirty thousand and are possibly expected to climb significantly as a result of the investigation." From STR # 8.40 10/02/92 More of that good old, downsizing.. ------------------------ Atari, in an ongoing effort to create better efficiency and better communications among its various divisions and departments, has closed down its facilties in both Lombard, a suburb of Chicago Il., a game development facility with 20 employees and Dallas, Tx., Atari Microsystems an R&D facility with 40 employees. Atari maintains that the employees of these facilities may move to Sunnyvale along with the facilities thus, ensuring that no positions will be lost if everyone agrees to move. Additionally, its been reported the Taiwanese facility, an interface operation with Atari's subcontractors has laid off 12 people as certian of this facility's functions will be assumed by Sunnyvale and Atari's Hong Kong office. Bill Rehbock will be attending WAACE and along with him will be a few Falcons for everyone to see and use! As funds are tight and Atari is being extremely careful in how they proceed with the new machine, Its great news to see they have decided to attend the show. See you all at WAACE! From STR # 8.41 10/16/92 Another one bites the dust.... ------------------------ Ken Badertscher, a long time enthusiastic Atari employee, has left Atari for greener pastures. Ken, noted for his work with the TOS group and other outstanding software accomplishments, left after a 'marathon' session of weeks of long hours to bring the Falcon Tos to reality. From STR # 8.42 10/23/92 There's NO dust left! ------------------------ The latest victims of Atari's infamous "Revolving Door" are Bernie Stollar who was going to revolutionize and upgrade Atari's communicative skills. Bernie, originally from the Village Voice in NYC, has departed from the hallowed halls of Atari after only a short stay. Then comes Alwin Stumph the newly appointed head of Atari Europe. The various Atari subsidiaries in Europe were consolidated under Stumph's Atari Germany. Stumph, long regarded as _the_ main thrust behind Atari's successes in Europe leaves shortly after it was revealed the construction costs of the new German facilities were just shy of ten million dollars. While unavailable for comment, it is rumored his departure may be linked to the now obvious "late delivery dates" of the new Atari Falcons earmarked for Europe. In a precedent setting "real time" environment, the ST RT on GEnie held an online conference originating at the GEIS Head Office in the Far East's jewel of the Orient, Hong Kong. A first for GEnie, the novelty conference was enjoyed by all in attendance. (approx 15 users) A number of prices were made mention of in relation to USA prices, ie., 4mb STe $150.00 US ea., Lynx games are $4.00 US ea., Not bad, considering the exchange rates, but.. when one adds in the air fare etc.. From STR # 8.43 10/30/92 Is there really hope? ------------------------ Contrary to the "populist" beliefs, Atari Corp. is really quite strong financially speaking. Everybody seems to have forgotten the "Tramiel Trust". Jack Tramiel a very wealthy businessman before he purchased Atari, never really invested the bulk of the family fortune into Atari. Time/Warner financed the entire deal at the time of purchase. Therefore, it would stand to reason that a substantial infusion of capital will occur when it is deemed necessary by Jack Tramiel. "Atari will have marketshare in 1993" it has been heard said in 'certain circles'. Rumored personel changes, being heard of for the last three weeks, were brought to the attention of Ron Kovacs, Atari Explorer Online editor. When efforts were made to verify the rumors with AEO's editor, the replies from Kovacs were inconclusive as he would neither confirm nor deny the various "rumored" changes being made. Subsequent calls to Atari also provided no solid information relative to the rumored changes as we were told; "as of yet, no solid decisions have been made." From STR # 8.44 11/06/92 Strange way to win friends.... ------------------------ Its been reported the developers are being asked to pay for the privilege of setting up in Atari's Comdex display. According to our resources, this is finally not the case at all. It seems that, at one time in the recent past, it was discussed at Atari and that certain developers were indeed asked to pay while others were not. Apparently in the long run, the entire concept was scrapped as a disgracefully bad idea. Therefore, in the interest of quelling a bad rumor, we are pleased to report that barring a change of heart, there is no basis in fact to the story that Atari is charging developers for a work space in their Comdex Area. Rumors are flying about indicating Gary Tramiel may have been named the new head of Atari North America. Tramiel, once the head of the ill fated Federated Stores Acquisition where Atari reported losses in the millions, could not be reached for comment. From STR # 8.45 11/13/92 Its not only happening in the States... ------------------------ The German PC weekly "PC Woche" (newsletter aimed at professional PC/Unix users, published by IDG Publications, a US company) this week reported some information relative to Alwin Stumpf departing from Atari Germany. They report that alleged rumors imply Stumpf left due to a dramatic difference of opinion and perspective between his and those of Jack Tramiel regarding the future of Atari. According to PC Woche the "Tramiel Clan" strongly favors the further development of a PC line (and wants to use a large majority of the available R&D money for this purpose), while Stumpf mainly wanted to concentrate on the 680x0 market and video games. Editor Note; This item which surfaced last week overseas, appears to fly in the face of everything we have ever heard from Atari. In fact, it borders on the ridiculous. However, its been presented to give the reader an opportunity to see for themselves the wide diversity of rumors flying about worldwide, due to the obvious scarcity of solid information coming forth from Atari "themselves". At a time when its most needed to keep the "troops smiling".... the silence is almost deafening. How about it Mr. Communications? PowerDos and PowerNet whose distribution rights and support were with Dragonware, have been sold by the programmer to ViewTouch Corporation. All support, programming and general information questions for PowerDos and PowerNet should be directed to either Gene Mosier at 503-344-7990 or Christopher Latham at PowerPoint Software 503-479-6635. From STR # 8.46 11/20/92 The Revolving Door Spins again! ------------------------ Hailed as the "Marketing Guru" Atari needed, Ron Smith recently joined Atari to put the marketing scheme in its proper perspective. It is rumored he left under a condition many have encountered in the past... he wanted to spend money to market product. Smith formally from Wang, as was Don Mandell, also became a beneficiary of the now infamous, Atari California "Paid Vacation"... a large but still somewhat exclusive executive club. No replacement has been announced. From STR # 8.47 11/27/92 Portfolio gets juiced! ------------------------ Seems the Crystal Ball is glowing white hot again... and in the middle of the rumor box in the ball are the words COMB LIQUIDATORS. Seems there was a rumored surplus of Portfolios so.... well we all know what Comb does best.. From STR # 8.48 12/04/92 So long to a good friend ------------------------ The German Atari magazine ATARI JOURNAL has been discontinued. The January 1993 issue, scheduled for December 11, 1992, will be the last issue. In a message posted in the German MausNet,.. ATARI JOURNAL's editor-in-chief Christian Strasheim yesterday officially confirmed rumors that ATARI JOURNAL will be discontinued due to the situation on the Atari market ATARI JOURNAL started in June 1989 under the name ATARI PD JOURNAL and was renamed ATARI JOURNAL in September 1991. In 41 issues ATARI (PD) JOURNAL has covered events on the Atari market in Germany, Europe, and overseas. Instead of addressing solely the experts, programmers, and freaks we successfully produced a magazine for almost everybody. The number of Atari users not only in Germany dimished in the last few months, and although several new products and upgrades continue to be released the distributors and developers were forced to reduce the amount of money available for advertisement. From STR # 8.49 12/11/92 A tad too, too late to help. ------------------------ Once again, the rumor mill is alive and well.. Seems Leonard had a number of Atari's Tos Development team members miffed (6 or so).. or so they say... A certain in-house member of that team made a stern complaint to Sam and now Leonard is in charge of the Jaguar Project. "Now then when did you want that Jaguar??" According to certain people the Falcon is FCC Certified. Ok, if such is the case, then why did a another publication carry the following line in their Comdex Report; "..... the FCC were fended off by big stickers under each Falcon: FOR DISPLAY PURPOSES ONLY--AWAITING FCC APPROVAL." Its easy to _say_they're certified, give the numbers out. The same numbers the FCC issues, the numbers that must be posted on a conspicuous label on each machine. After all, IF they're certified Class B, then the numbers have been issued. Numbers please.... From STR # 8.50 12/18/92 The "great performance" haunts.... ------------------------ Its been rumored the dealer who made his misgivings known at a recent New England Show, is once again prepared to keep his word about the timely arrival of new equipment. "Its once again Christmas and guess what??? NO PRODUCT!" It was made mention that more will be said after the holiday. Kesmai, authors of Air Warrior on GEnie, announced today they will not be supporting Atari Computers (or monochrome Macs) in future versions of the very popular online game, Air Warrior. No customers and no support from Atari were specifically mentioned. Amiga, however, is still being supported. There's also a special SVGA version that should hit the stores any day now. From STR # 8.51 12/26/92 You don't play with the man with the whiskers! ------------------------ After the story became known about the TT030 rumored being "approved" as Class 'B' but the version was not placed in production, many have asked what are the numbers for the Falcon030? Its a very simple question; "What is the number the FCC issued for Class B certification for the Falcon030 and on what date was is issued? Having this information at hand can do a great deal of good in dispelling the the rumor that there "may not" have been a number issued when it was clearly stated by Atari that the Falcon030 was Class B certified. Being able to pass the standards set for class B in an outside facility is not the same thing as being issued the actual Certificate of Class B acceptance. So please, what's the number and when was it issued? Rumor has it that True Type Fonts will also be supported by Atari's new "standard" Speedo G-Dos. While its not a verified story its been corroborated with a number of other Atarians and its a good idea whose time has come. """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" STReport's "EDITORIAL CARTOON" """""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > A "Quotable Quote" "... A SIGN OF THE TIMES...." """"""""""""""""" "When people proffer criticisms of Atari, its because they are sincerely responsive enough to survey the ecumenical predicament and offer a conducive critique and commentary. Unfortunately, there are those in this shrinking community who obdurately insist upon confronting this concept with a defensive, truculent stance. Its lamentable to see these types only understand the antediluvian concept of "Us & Them". Sadly, they persist in attempting to create antagonistic stiuations and circumstances upon which they conspicuously flourish." .....R.F. Mariano """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > ABCO SPECIALS! STR InfoFile * 1992 HOLIDAY Prices! MORE Products! * """"""""""""""""""""""""""" ------------------------------------ ** EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY! ** NOTICE: ABCO will BEAT OR MATCH * ANY * Advertised or Invoiced price * WE WILL NOT BE UNDERSOLD! ABCO COMPUTER CONSULTANTS ========================= P.O. 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ABCO is EXPANDING!! CALL FOR INFORMATION! SEND FOR YOUR NEW ABCO CATALOG TODAY! """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" STReport International Online Magazine -* [S]ilicon [T]imes [R]eport *- """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" STR Online! "YOUR INDEPENDENT NEWS SOURCE" January 02, 1993 Since 1987 copyright (c) 1987-92 All Rights Reserved No.9.01 """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" Views, Opinions and Articles Presented herein are not necessarily those of the editors/staff of STReport International Online Magazine. Permission to reprint articles is hereby granted, unless otherwise noted. Reprints must, without exception, include the name of the publication, date, issue number and the author's name . STReport and/or portions therein may not be edited in any way without prior written permission. STReport, at the time of publication, is believed reasonably accurate. STReport, its staff and contributors are not and cannot be held responsible for the use or misuse of information contained herein or the results obtained therefrom. """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""