November 2022 - vcf-midatlantic

VOTING NOW OPEN - Steering Committee Election is Live
by Chris Fala 26 Nov '22

26 Nov '22

Cast your vote now! Please remember there are three seats to fill, so you may vote for up to three candidates. For identification on the voting form, use the e-mail address that you are subscribed to this mailing list with. Voting will close at 11:59pm on December 7th. Get to know your candidates here: https://vcfed.org/steering-committee-nominee-position-statements/ Vote at the link below. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdqnOZddYcoHTc59HLVn4QxWaEAdNehGL3… Thank you for your participation!

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Position Statement, Steering Committee
by Douglas Crawford 26 Nov '22

26 Nov '22

Greeting VCF members. This is Doug Crawford coming to you regarding nomination for the 2022 Steering Committee elections. I have been serving as an appointed member to the committee since last spring when Tony Bogan had to step out for personal reasons. I have learned a lot getting thrust into the organization. Allow me a moment to tell you what I have experienced, and done, and hope to accomplish if I remain on the committee. Here’s my primer on what being a Steering Committee members means. The Steering Committee is a governmental body concept, one that is credited to Adam Michin for proposing, and designed to bring our best minds to bear on all of the activities of the Mid-Atlantic chapter of VCF. As such the committee’s decisions often have to do with the museum, the warehouse, and relations with InfoAge. This was an innovation that has led to a lot of healthy direction since its inception. Steering Committee candidates mainly serve to lend their minds, and don’t have to be the most talented technically or most available. They are lending their practical judgment, passion, and interest. It seems to me these are some important attributes for Steering Committee members: caring about the health of the hobby, caring about the artifacts, caring about effective relationship with InfoAge, caring that projects in progress, and a vision for the future of what VCF Mid Atlantic can accomplish. Here’s an example. It had always been a working assumption that the only way to run the Mid-Atlantic VCF efforts was having one person in charge of managing all the aspects. Chris Fala was the first to suggest that this wasn’t necessarily the case. This turned into a proposal by me defining a set of manager roles under the direction of the Steering Committee. Behind the scenes interested parties refined the plan and then it was presented to the Steering Committee. The Steering Committee like the idea, refined it further, and passed it. Things are running pretty well like this now, and the burdens are distributed. And the "jobs" are transferable in the future. Its sustainable. Perhaps some of this background info will help in framing what you are voting for and your expectations. Now having been deeper inside “the machine” than ever before, and additionally serving under the new manager roles as Museum Manager and Warehouse manager, I began forming an assessment of where we have been and where we might go. In short I see a whole host of yet-to-be-realized potential created by all the effort that has come before. I think we are not yet capitalizing enough on the retro craze and making it count on our campus. Chiefly, we do not get as much of the general public coming to see the exhibits of VCF East, not near enough traffic coming to the museum, and too little growth to the membership. In a response to these observations, I crafted an expanded Mission Statement with details that I believe will inspire action to make practical improvements in these areas. The Steering Committee recently reviewed, refined and voted to adopt it. Working this mission statement in earnest should lead to some good results. My primary focus with the museum is to grow the Museum‘s stature to become a well-known, “must see” destination. *** the very health of InfoAge and our continued presence there, it turns out, depends on our development of traffic to the complex *** As such we must cultivate visitor in categories like these and more: - general public curious about computer history - students that might need inspiration to develop an interest in technology - budding STEM students that will would be encouraged by an infusion computer tech and concepts that build upon what they know. I believe our crew of “veterans of the computer revolution” can provide a thoroughly excellent experience to visitors. And it would be great if we could have a program that encourages visitor that we inspire to have a continuing relationship with VCF. And last, here are some of my technical background and vintage computer work: - https://abitoutofplace.wordpress.com/ - some restorations and my “about me” - The Spreadsheet "Killer App" VCF exhibit - Kermit Exhibit - with the Superbrain building an early executable of CP/M Kermit VCF Exhibit - Computers with multiple personalities Exhibit with Chris Fala and Todd George - C64 assembly language introduction VCF class - A docent going back to the MARCH days. - Taking vintage computer exhibits to science fairs with Chris Fala and Todd George. So if elected to a set I will be in a position to keep the integrity of the initiatives spawning from the new Mission Statement. I look forward to carrying the torch! -DC

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VCF-MA UPDATES - Museum News and Steering Committee Report
by Chris Fala 25 Nov '22

25 Nov '22

Dear VCF Members, I am very pleased to share with you that there have been amazing improvements in our museum recently. Since joining the Steering Committee, and subsequently being voted as the Museum Manager, Doug Crawford has been unstoppable! He is regularly at the museum, both to perform docent duties, and to work on various projects/improvements. Here are just some of the many recent accomplishments that have resulted from his actions and leadership. - A testimonial video for our Wang 4000 was made with Ramsey Mahadeen and published on YouTube. - The HP 1000 power has been wired, the machine repaired, documented, and is now operable by docents. - Our PDP-8 was repaired by David G. at the last workshop. - A Microvax II is installed in the museum and is usable. It is attached to the DEC Robin as an AUX terminal. - Detailed museum opening and closing procedure checklists have been written and are in use. This ensures consistent handling of artifacts and makes it easier for new docents to perform these duties correctly. - A better description of the museum, updated and approved by the Steering Committee, has been provided to InfoAge for inclusion in their new handouts. - Unused floor space under computer exhibit racks were fitted with curtains to allow that area to be used for storage, in conditioned space, for some artifacts previously housed in the warehouse, as well as to clear space in the docent area to provide more workspace. - Doug acquired three, good quality, used medical carts. They will be outfitted with tools, and have wheels so they can be easily moved where needed to assist in working on equipment in the museum and warehouse. _____________________________ In other exciting news, the Steering Committee has voted to approve an official Mission/Vision Statement for our Wall, NJ museum. Inspired by our host, InfoAge, and in partnership with them as a learning center, we believe it is important to have a clear goal, mission, and vision for our museum. This Mission Statement will be incorporated into the Steering Committee's by-laws, will be proudly displayed in our museum, and will be used (as appropriate) in publications and advertisements. Until we have the opportunity to post it on our website, the content is provided below. I hope you agree with me that this is a very meaningful addition to our charter. Since becoming affiliated with VCF several years ago, I have witnessed exceptional growth in all aspects of the organization. Between the museum, VCF-East, events like workshops and swap-meets, member participation, artifacts, organizational structure, etc., I feel that we have grown and improved far from where we started, while still holding onto the things that make us great, foremost of which is our awesome community. I have high hopes that we can continue this trend with the help of all our brilliant members. Sincerely, Chris Fala Chairman of the Mid-Atlantic Steering Committee of the Vintage Computer Federation _____________________________ *The Mission and Vision of* *the Vintage Computer Federation Museum in Wall, NJ* *A Computer History Learning Center* *MISSION* To honor and propagate the history of computer innovation by preserving and exhibiting artifacts in a uniquely hands-on experience for the education of the public, edification of our membership, and inspiration of a new generation of thinkers, dreamers, and visionaries. *VISION* *Develop* a growing museum and knowledgeable docent staff. Rescue, preserve, and restore artifacts. Create interesting, educational, functional, and interactive exhibits. *Establish* educational tours, demonstrations, talks, and hands-on learning opportunities around the multi-faceted technological evolutions in computer subjects. These include hardware, operating systems, programming languages, applications/software, user interfaces, communications and networking, and gaming. *Instill* an appreciation of the evolution of technology by connecting tech of the past to tech of today. *Illuminate* our artifacts with information about the people, events, culture, and trivia in computer history. *Inspire* youth to continue the quest; help them realize that they are the future and give them a vision for that future. Provide avenues for them to get started learning electronics and programming. *Cultivate* a community of vintage technology enthusiasts by engaging them with the VCF in its mission, and provide opportunities to get involved. *Grow *the museum by promoting far and wide its value and educational experience. Increase attendance and revenue to InfoAge, encourage the increase in donations to the VCF. Establish that we are worthy of being the beneficiaries of significant, notable, or important artifact donations and monetary support, in particular from industry and influential entities. *ASPIRATIONS* ● To be regarded as a premier computer history learning center and museum ● To be regarded as a must-see destination for all levels of interest, from those casually intrigued with computer history to students studying technology to technology industry veterans to vintage computer hobbyists ● To embody these goals both in our current museum even more so in our future expanded museum

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Steering Committee Position Statement for Jeff Salzman
by Jeff S 25 Nov '22

25 Nov '22

My own personal history, experiences, curiosity, and affinity toward vintage computing has set me firmly in a hobby that I enjoy. I believe in the goals of the Vintage Computer Federation (VCF), not only for the preservation of vintage computer systems, but for the opportunities the organization provides to the public for those who want to discover and learn about the history of computing. It would be an honor to be a committee member, putting forth an effort as part of the process that helps to define the operation and future vision of the VCF. I have been an aficionado of vintage computing systems, even long before they were ever classified as vintage. My personal experiences since my childhood and young adulthood have always been along the home computing line, 8-bit and above. VCF introduced me to other forms of computing that had an impact throughout the world over the ages. Sometime around 2004, I learned about M.A.R.C.H. and what the organization was all about. I was even asked to design the organization’s logo. It was then that I discovered I wasn’t the only one who (even secretly) held a fondness for vintage computing, thus re-energizing my hobby from simply collecting vintage computing systems, toward the appreciation and preservation of vintage computing in general. I eventually found myself attending the VCF East event as an exhibitor so I could show off what I had in my collection and demonstrate to others, young and old, what computing was like for my generation. Since that time, I have been doing a completely different exhibit each year to show a variety of vintage computers, along with examples of how they were used back in the day. I also started engaging in behind-the-scenes activity of the organization’s events and general operations. I became increasingly involved with events like the Workshops and Festivus. You would (and still could) find me at almost every Workshop, if not working on my own stuff, I’m generally working through items on behalf of the warehouse and museum to meet their respective needs. I hate to see broken vintage computer systems. The Workshops give us an opportunity to do our part in keeping these systems alive, and even more so, allow us to share that experience with others bearing the same interests. Those are just a few of the many reasons VCF exists for the avid hobbyist, or for the piqued interest of a museum visitor, or with whatever insight the organization discovers can be used to promote the knowledge and history of computing to the public. That is a primary goal of mine if elected to the Steering Committee. To put a finger on the pulse of the hobby and help to find ways to effectively and thoroughly promote the intent of the Vintage Computer Federation, defined by the “Corporate Purpose” as written in the organization’s by-laws. Needless to say, I frequently and deeply engage in VCF activities. I shall engage in my duties as a member of the VCF Steering Committee with no less effort than I already put in for the good of the organization. On behalf of the other candidates and myself, I thank you for your fair consideration of everyone’s Position Statement before you vote for the Steering Committee members you feel will properly support and advise the VCF on its operations and charter. Jeff Salzman

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*** VOTING STARTS TOMORROW!!! *** - YOU Will Select the Next Steering Committee Members
by Chris Fala 25 Nov '22

25 Nov '22

Hello VCF Members! Nominations closed on Wednesday night. The candidates are set. Voting opens tomorrow morning! Cast your vote using the link that will be provided at that time. Remember, there are three vacancies, so you can vote for up to three candidates. Be an informed voter. Follow the link below to learn more about the candidates. Also, feel free to reach out and ask questions. https://vcfed.org/steering-committee-nominee-position-statements/ Candidate nominees are: Doug Crawford - nominated by Chris Fala Chris Fala - nominated by Tony Bogan Alexander Jacocks - nominated by Jeff Salzman Adam Michlin - nominated by Dean Notarnicola Dean Notarnicola - nominated by Doug Crawford Ethan O'Toole - nominated by Alexander Jacocks Jeff Salzman - nominated by Jeff Brace Your participation is appreciated! VCF *IS* ITS MEMBERS! Sincerely, Chris Fala Chairman of the Mid-Atlantic Steering Committee of the Vintage Computer Federation

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One more day for the party survey
by Jeffrey Brace 25 Nov '22

25 Nov '22

55 respondents so far. The survey is anonymous. It's only 5 questions. It takes 2 minutes of your time. 1 days left to go. If you haven't already done so. Please fill out the survey: https://bit.ly/vcfEoY2022pre Thank you for your time! ========================================= Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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Help needed fixing my Commodore 128DCR keyboard
by Joseph Giliberti 24 Nov '22

24 Nov '22

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! The other day I was rearranging some of my collection and I dropped the keyboard for my Commodore 128 DCR about 3 ft onto a concrete floor. I really wasn't expecting the plastic case to shatter like it did. It didn't actually break into many different pieces because all of the little shards are being held together by the outermost layer of the casing. The keyboard itself still works. Can anyone recommends how I might go about repairing the case? I will share some photos either later today or tomorrow. Keyboard is also in severe need of retrobrite treatment. Thanks and happy holidays! Joe Giliberti

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Getting the Word Out!
by Chris Fala 24 Nov '22

24 Nov '22

I just noticed that Hackaday's latest e-mail newsletter mentioned TCF and VCF-East. Let's hope for a huge turnout. Thanks Hackaday!

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Happy Thanksgiving
by Christian Liendo 24 Nov '22

24 Nov '22

I hope this is a good day for everyone. I also hope that we can all meet in a few weeks. I can't wait for the smells of food, drink and blown capacitors in the air. So again Happy Thanksgiving, to you and your families. Take care fellas

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Position Statement of Chris Fala for the Steering Committee Election
by Chris Fala 23 Nov '22

23 Nov '22

Greetings VCF Members, I am Chris Fala, and for over two years I have been a member of the VCF Mid-Atlantic Steering Committee and the Chairman of the Committee for the past year. Below is a brief self-introduction, and my thoughts on the future of VCF and why I feel I’m worthy of your vote to stay on the Steering Committee. I hope you read further. and I look forward to receiving your confidence and vote as we move forward with the improvement and expansion of VCF. I grew up in the 1970s-80s in southern New Jersey. My first exposure to the world of computing was as a teenager in school on a TRS-80 model 1 (the only computer in the school) which I used to teach myself how to program in BASIC. Later, my sister who was a Commodore employee gave me a VIC-20 for Christmas that she got with her "employee discount" which I recently discovered was actually $0 (Bil Herd confirmed to me that this was a legitimate thing at Commodore!). I spent hundreds of hours programming that computer, trying to create games and other software, as I did not own any official software. I also learned to directly access the hardware thanks to the wonderful Programmer's Reference Guide book. In college, I learned Pascal and FORTRAN on the Apple IIe computers that were in the very small computer lab, and learned C at a different school on a VAX system. I have many other parallel experiences in my young days where I learned about electronics, experiences which were very impactful to me. Without further extending this document, suffice it to say that these experiences built a foundation that firmly rooted my interests in technology. While some who know me may think of me as a "Commodore guy", rest assured I have a deep appreciation for, and interest in promoting, all computer innovations wherever and whenever they may have occurred in history. While my personal history has some interesting events that have directed my life's path to where it is today, I feel my history is less relevant than my vision for the future. With the wonderful events that VCF makes available to its members at the InfoAge campus, such as workshops, swap-meets, our Holiday Membership Party, etc., we have a place to hang out, have fun, get to know people, and play/work with our toys. These gatherings make VCF-MA much more than just a museum and festival. We are a community of like-minded appreciators of creativity, preservation, history, and technology. I doubt that this dynamic will ever change, and I feel that it can only be enhanced by the growth that I believe we need and deserve. I have huge aspirations for the future of VCF. Since my first Vintage Computer Festival, I have been in awe at the literal genius that has been displayed at our tables. The skill and creativity that I have seen, I feel, has been sadly underrated based on the size of the event. Instead of being exposed to hundreds of people, I believe the great creations of our members and exhibitors should be seen by thousands, if not millions. The level of genius that I describe appears (in my opinion) to be better expressed at VCF-East than at other events. I have not had the luxury of attending many other related events, and I intend no insult or criticism of them. However, I have heard many testimonies and seen many videos that have painted a clear enough picture to help me firmly believe that what we have here at East is very special. Recently, in conversation where VCF-East was being compared to the other VCFs, I have heard the term "science fair" attributed to our festival. At face value, I feel this description can be construed as an insult. A science fair by definition is usually a children's event. Our festival is a science treasure trove! Our exhibitors don't just say, "here, look at this cool old computer". We present fully functional demonstrations of how they were used in their heyday, dig into the innovations that were foundations for later technology, promote appreciation for historic creativity that was derivative of nothing, and invent modern ways to tap into the old technology while honoring the history. The high caliber of speakers that have presented at VCF-East speak for themselves (literally!). If you don't know, go check out our YouTube channel and see the many historical figures who have been at our campus. We have an embarrassment of riches. Our host, InfoAge, possesses history that is unmatched by most other venues. While logistics can be challenging when putting on an event, those challenges don't compare with more significant facts. For example: 1. Marconi himself worked here. 2. The communications dish was significant in early space exploration. 3. Other museums on campus are exceptional, relevant, and unique. These are just a few reasons why the home of our museum is also a great home to our biggest public event! We have in our museum several extremely rare artifacts. The UNIVAC, which is one of very few that is still FUNCTIONAL. The Philbrick Researches tube based analog computer (that we affectionately refer to as "George") which we have been told was assembled to be a teaching computer and likely never existed elsewhere in this configuration. Our IBM 1130. Our Wang 4000. Our PDP "straight" 8. The list goes on. Are we the best computer museum? The most complete? The most convenient? The most attractive? The most well known? The easy answer to those questions is no. However, we have an opportunity to change that last one. We need to be foremost in people's thoughts when they think of a great place to learn about computer history. We should make every effort to make VCF-MA well known to anyone who is at all interested in technology. If elected to remain a member of the Mid-Atlantic Steering Committee, I will continue to promote the growth of all the great things I mentioned above. If you agree with me that these should be our priorities, I respectfully ask for your vote. Sincerely, Chris Fala Chairman of the Mid-Atlantic Steering Committee of the Vintage Computer Federation

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