This file contains comments from our subscribers that did not require a response from our editors or programmers. We also have a file which contains questions from our subscribers along with answers from our editors and/or programmers. That file is available as "ASK ODM."
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I like the concept of a Shareware Corner. But I did not like Klondike because the resolution is better in the Microsoft Windows Solitaire version.
Walter Welt
San Francisco, CA
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DOS disk or Window disk. Yes, it would be nice to have both. Maybe I would subscribe to both, but chances are I would stay with DOS only. I had a choice to stay with you (DOS) or Shareware Monthly (Windows) I dropped them. Sometimes when a company divides their efforts they lose, not gain. Now you have the best of both worlds, so why kill the golden goose? Now, if you offered only one disk per month DOS "or" Windows versions, you could have a winner and everybody would be happy.
But what do I know, last month I said the secret word was look, and it really was cool. It had been a week since I worked out all levels of HighJinx and forgot the word!!!
No Name
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The Shareware Corner is a great idea that we would like to see on future issues. It gives us the opportunity to try other programs that would not be available from a dealer. We both enjoyed the KLONDIKE SOLITAIRE. I would like to try some of the new adventure games that will be coming out soon.
We are new subscribers to ODM. I know that there are a lot of programs that support Windows. That's why I listed a conversion program on the Issue 83 report card.
I am interested in the wallpaper program graphics and would like to know how I can use these programs in DOS. We use our PS DELUXE program extensively in making custom greeting cards and letterheads. Can these graphics be converted in the GRAPHICS WORK SHOP or a paint program?
In the AMERICAN HIGHLIGHTS program, I would like to use the STATUE OF LIBERTY graphic and the dates and events on one screen. The screen images would make nice pictures for framing. Is there a program driver for color printers that can be used with AMERICAN HIGHLIGHTS?
As you have guessed by now that we like working with graphics, it gives us the opportunity to express ideas for making custom cards.
I realize that your publication is trying to appease all subscribers. The programs are usable and worth the price of the subscription. Patiently waiting for Disk 85.
No Name
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Dear Sean:
After viewing Issue 84, I got this stimulus! Conceivably this month, just filling out the report card isn't enough. It's time for a letter to the editor.
Because I enjoy ODM I anticipate it's arrival by at least two weeks every month. I'm out looking into the mailbox far earlier than the issue should arrive. The charm of your publication is in seeing (and trying out) the myriad of classy programs and (forgive the pun) the apt apps, which you manage to come up with each and every month. I'm even ordering some back issues with this letter, so please understand, I love 'ya.
I am also constantly exploring shareware. I have a subscription for one service and also do a lot of prowling around with downloads and services.
I applaud your looking for new ways to improve on ODM. But I hope that the Shareware Feature will not become a regular part of ODM. I look to ODM for just what it is: Free Programs. Klondike, which you included on Issue 84 eliminated something that I wouldn't have seen anywhere else . . . like the cute little MAGNETS programs. You've got to admit that if you want card games there are hundreds of sources from which to choose, everything from commercial programs to shareware packages.
It's got to be tough to program against a publication dead-line, and ODM does an extraordinary job at it. Unlike the fellow who expected a comprehensive hand-signing program, I do, in my limited way, understand what work goes into a publication like yours. I just hate to see Shareware . . . excellent tho' it may be . . . become a regular part of ODM's monthly banquet.
Thanks again,
Terri Brown
Stockton, CA
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This is the first of this type of program I have enrolled in and received. I have had a ball figuring things out and did have to call for assistance. It was immediate and I was able to proceed.
As you may have guessed I am a rank amateur in computers and feel like a kid with a new toy - I think I was this excited about my first car - it was so long ago I can barely remember.
I am looking forward to new disks.
Thanks,
Paulette Bethel
Riverton, UT
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Dear Daniel:
I was disappointed that you did not include some .pcx clip art on issue 85. Hopefully you will have some Christmas ones on the next issue. It is hard to find clip art that can be used in MS Word. I really like the ones on issue 84 and use them on all my letters. I like card games and hope you can offer some new ones sometime. I enjoy ODM and look forward to getting it each month.
Sincerely,
Shirley Burress
Crystal River, FL
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To: Sean Golden
Your new VGA shell is very slow to reload, the old EGA shell was much better. I could look at a program, go back to shell to select another, in a flash, now I have time for a cup of coffee waiting for the shell to reload.
As you see, I use some of your programs, this is typed on Memo Writer.
Games are good, but why use such a small window, why not use a full screen window, like on Memo Writer?
George Sessler
Lorena, TX
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Sirs:
What a great improvement! You were indeed behind the times with the old format. This edition looks great. Several of my questions were answered in the mail bag, specifically the one related to screen blankers. Although I have Windows, I'm not a great fan, but your new Windows add ons are pretty good. I usually work from the DOS prompt, and if I use a GUI, I prefer Geoworks for ease of use and it has a better interface than Windows in my opinion.
Thanks,
D. Joan Maybee
Joshua Tree, CA
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Dear Mr. Golden:
My name is Peter Marcinkowski, and I am 16 years old. My father subscribed to ODM a while ago, and I have never really paid any attention to the disks my father receives from your company. Recently I was sitting at my computer and noticed one of your disks (Issue #83) lying around. I slipped it into the drive not expecting to see anything that would interest me. But to my surprise I found myself sitting at my computer for over an hour going through all the disks my father has received.
The disks were full of programs that are useful, fun, and educational. I especially like the card games, and I hope you keep including more in upcoming issues. I also like the Print Shop Images which are very useful. I would also like to comment on "Typing Attack II" in issue #83. My father does not type very well and I would like to see "Alphabetic Keyboarding" or something similar to it in upcoming issues if it is at all possible.
Thank you for the great work and I hope it only gets better!
Sincerely,
Mr. Peter Marcinkowski
Brooklyn, NY
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Gentlemen:
I received the first issue of Softdisk Publishing, Disk No. 84 last week. Though I find it very interesting, my 11 year old son, Casey, found your Halloween game addicting. He asked me to tell you that . . .
EXTRA, EXTRA, CASEY CARMACK SUCCEEDS!
That's right! I have conquered the graveyard with all its ghoulish dangers! I managed to grab enough candy and treasure to survive 30 levels and to retrieve the password "cool".
I have decided to try your subscription for three months. Enclosed please find my personal check for $19.95 for a 3 month subscription. Please send me the free On Disk Monthly bonus disk as stated in your letter. I am sending my payment within the 15 days so my next issue of On Disk Monthly should arrive on schedule.
Thank you for your kind attention.
Connie Sue Carmack
Nassau Bay, TX
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We want to know what you think about our shareware program this month. If you think we should publish more shareware let us know. If you don't like the idea, let us know that too.
Marvelous. I won't need to go to the shopping center and waste my time and my money to look for one and maybe not to find what I want. I am very happy about this decision and I am waiting for Games #1 and Spotlight for Windows.
1) The most I like is the best information provided with ODM and the facilities to print it out.
2) The function "copy" is very clear and easy to use.
3) I'd like to know when the two new products will be available:
Shareware Spotlight Games and Shareware Spotlight for Windows I want it as soon as possible. Thank you, and continue your good work. I'm very lucky to know ODM and to be a subscriber.
Joan St. Gelais
Quebec
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Dear Editor:
I have just read the reader comments on issue 84 and I would like to say this: "You have a great product and keep up the good work!" I am a "Christian" but I do not take games or programs so seriously that I would not play them. They do not offend my Christian beliefs because they are only games, it is not real life. We have a great many problems in this world and spell casting or monsters are not part of them. I believe that we should put our efforts to educate our younger adults and games are the way to do this. We have enough violence upon our streets, we have enough guns and drugs on the street but what we don't have enough of is good old imagination and good quality games.
I am a disabled person and have to live on a fixed income, I wish I could afford your specials on a yearly subscription rate but I am unable to do so. I do have a suggestion for you, let us "poor" people in on your special deals by allowing us to make two or three monthly payments. I know that keeping track of payment records would be an added expense but this could be compensated by adding a dollar or two to each payment.
Thanks,
John V. Bollinger
Missoula, MT
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Dear Mr. Golden:
First of all, let me congratulate you and your staff on the new improved, and superb version of ODM (#83), I feel the new HD, VGA format, along with the new menu modeled after the envelope are truly commendable. Keep up the good work. And, I think the idea of a "Starter Disk" is just super.
I have been a subscriber since BBD #21, so I don't need to tell you my feelings towards ODM, nor tell you that all of the programs don't fit my personal desires. However, I have just recently renewed for an additional two years, and also ordered the New Print Shop so I can learn how to use all of those "Print Shop Images" I have collected.
