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VOCC Minutes
Season 2005-2006
March 29, 2006
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, March 29, 2006 at 10:30 A.M. with President Judy Armento presiding. About 20 members were present.
Regarding the minutes of the last meeting: Jim Hayden said that it was not a web-cam that he suggested, but a weather station that would give the wind direction and speed. There was a long discussion about the kind of station that would be required and how it would be transmitted to the VOCC during a hurricane, e.g., when VO might be evacuated. This idea must be investigated in more detail. Lee Pennington said that www.weatherunderground.com might pay us to make information available to them. You can go to that web site and get weather information anywhere in the world. Warren Beaumont suggested that we visit the weather web-cam on Long Beach Island . See the e-mail that he has sent to the VOCC.
Regarding Wi-Fi: Progress! We are still waiting for Nortel to gives us a plan and price. A few days ago there was an article in the Key West Citizen newspaper that asked why free Wi-Fi wasn’t offered to all in Key West . It listed many cities that now offer free Wi-Fi.
Other aspects of the minutes were accepted.
Treasurer Judi Dario reported (after the meeting) about $1,570 in the treasury. $15 was collected at the last meeting.
The next movie at VO will be on Saturday, April 1 at 7:30 P.M. and it will be “Memoirs of a Geisha.” That movie has won several academy awards and was JUST released on DVD. Watch for Judi’s notices on the conference list.
Reminder: Don’t forget to donate your $1 at each meeting.
Next week, April 5 will be our last VOCC formal meeting, since so many are now headed north. It will be a question and answer session.
The Florida Keys Community College is now on spring break, so Dr. Hijazi has been unable to send us the MS Office tutorial. Connie Hill passed out a list that we could sign if we would like copies. She will make certain that we receive them. Call Connie to request a copy.
The printer that was made available to all in the Computer and Information Nook has disappeared. Perhaps someone thought it was offered free to anyone who wanted to take it home! No, it was offered only for use by all who use the Nook. If anyone has the printer HP 1210, please bring it back to the PC Nook. Thanks.
Program:
Computer expert Chip Hughs presented today’s program. He showed us the new Microsoft operating system, VISTA that will be released sometime in January 2007 or later.
Vista will have stringent computer requirements for memory, hard drive, speed, etc. It will probably make all of our computers obsolete, as Windows XP did for so many. There should be a law against planned obsolescence! There will surely be software in the future that will run only on Vista operating systems.
There will be many versions: for professionals, basic users, laptops, etc. You can customize Vista , but you can not install it on an old PC. It will probably be very expensive, and each copy will be registered so that it can’t be shared.
There will be NO DOS capability. CD 1.4 diskettes will be obsolete. However, Chip said it would be backwards compatible to Windows 98. It will be 32 bit---no 16 bit program will run.
It will have Wi-Fi and anti-virus built in.
Paul and I were at Office Depot in Marathon yesterday, and the sales clerk there that I spoke to had never heard of VISTA . So we are all ahead of some of the experts!
Paul bought a small USB-connected external drive of 60 GB for less than $100. The sales help didn’t know about that either. The store has been newly revamped since being flooded out in Hurricane Wilma, so perhaps the help is all new.
Then Chip showed us some tips about care of our computers. It is important to blow out the dust. A hairdryer or a shop vac (in reverse) will work. One computer was almost ruined by dog hair. (The dog like the heat of the computer and slept in front of it.)
He also showed us photos of computer motherboards and where all the parts are. Since most of us have notebook computers, this was not as helpful to us.
Should you buy a new PC or wait for VISTA ? Chip said that it might be a long wait. However, if you buy a new computer, make sure that it has the capability of updating to VISTA when it comes out. Get FREE UPGRADE in writing when you buy!
The meeting ended at noon .
Rose Sangrey has offered to help beginners learn about computers. Just give her a call at 745-2454.
All are welcome at our VOCC meetings. Come one, come all! See you then!
Respectfully submitted,
Joan Brill, Secretary
March 22, 2006
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 10:30 A.M. with vice-president Jim Hayden presiding. Our president, Judy Armento was absent due to the illness of Gene’s sister-in-law. About 20 members were present.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as published on the Conference List.
Treasurer Judi Dario reported about $1,570 in the treasury. $15 was collected at the last meeting; popcorn and soda for the movie, “Flight Plan” brought in $142.50. (It was a terrific movie.) Connie Hill, our retiring program chairman, was presented with a gift certificate. THANK YOU, Connie, for your wonderful programs!
Reminder: Don’t forget to donate your $1 at each meeting.
The next movie is scheduled for Saturday, April 4. Watch for notices from Judi Dario, our Movie Chairman!
Jim Hayden suggested that the VOCC buy a WebCam that could be viewed at any time, especially during bad weather. He found it difficult to keep everyone informed of the conditions at VO during the 4 hurricanes last summer, and thought that this would help. However, members seemed to feel that local weather reports from the Key West Airport, NOAA weather radio in Key West etc. were sufficient, and no motion was forthcoming. Perhaps there will be more discussion at another meeting.
Connie Hill introduced our scheduled programs. On March 29 Chip Hughs will discuss how to take the best care of your computer and will demonstrate the new MS operating system, VISTA .
Program:
Today, Dr. Sam Hijazi from FKCC demonstrated the program MS Excel.
Microsoft Office consists of 5 different programs: Word (word processor), Excel (spreadsheet), Access (database), Power Point, Front Page (for creating web sites) and Home Publisher. Dr. Hajazi has already given several programs demonstrating Word. He said that he would give us a signed copy of a Microsoft Office Tutorial, and that we are free to duplicate it!
Excel is APPLICATION software. It has many uses.
Excel is mainly a spreadsheet, but can also be used for a database if your need for query and sorting data is not too stringent. (Access can be used for the database.) Excel is used for number “crunching” that can be done through formulas + built-in functions.
I use Excel for my database address information. You may convert Works Database files to Access or Excel by saving them in .txt or .csv and then saving them in .xls. Word does not read Works Databases, so if you try to use them for a mail merge (e.g. printing envelopes with your printer) you will have problems.
The numbered tabs at the bottom represent the number of sheets in the spreadsheet. You can change the numbers to names so that you can find the data on the correct page quickly.
You can change the colors and fonts and appearance.
You can change the number of rows and cells, the size of the cells; you can zoom in for easier viewing. You can combine cells or columns. You can use the fill button (lower right corner) to fill in numbers, months, days of the week etc. to the right or down.
You can have a cell that is programed to give the total of the numbers from designated cells. The sum will change as the other number change.
Click TWO TIMES to edit a cell. Press ENTER to leave the cell.
You may use the symbols < (less than) > greater than <> equal to. (I didn’t get the other symbols—there were three more.)
This is a rather complicated program with MANY capabilities, and you really had to be there to see some of the possibilities. It was truly impressive.
Dr. Hajazi couldn’t answer all of the questions that were asked. Perhaps he can return and show us more possibilities for using Excel.
The meeting ended at noon .
Rose Sangrey has offered to help beginners learn about computers. Just give her a call at 745-2454.
All are welcome at our VOCC meetings. Come one, come all! See you then!
Respectfully submitted,
Joan Brill, Secretary
These minutes will be posted in the Recreation Hall for those who can’t receive them via the internet. Spread the word! They can also be found online at www.voresort.org
www.ventureout.org (VO web site.) This web site is now combined with www.voresort.org (web information site).
votennis-l@ventureout.org (e-mail address- Tennis Club conference list)
vocc@googlegroups.com (address- VO and VOCC news conference list) NOTE NEW CHANGES TO THIS LIST ONLY. All the rest remain the same.
vocal-l@ventureout.org (address- Miscellaneous conference list)
If you wish to receive e-mail from our conference lists, send an
e-mail to charlesgerber@msn.com. Send him your address, name, spouse’s name, lot number and telephone number.
Joan Brill
Joan Brill's Web Site
March 15, 2006
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, March 15, 2006 at 10:30 A.M. with President Judy Armento presiding. About 20 members were present.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as published on the Conference List.
Treasurer Judi Dario reported by e-mail: There is $1,438.00 in the treasury. A range extender cost $107.48. $42 was spent for pizza for the Wi-Fi meeting. Receipts: $27 from the last meeting. Judi Dario will be sending out notices about the next movie to be shown.
Reminder: Don’t forget to donate your $1 at each meeting. We use the money to buy supplies (e.g. a new laptop computer) for the VOCC. Thanks!
We voted to reimburse Jim Rhinehart $42 for a battery backup for our Wi-Fi equipment. It was suggested that all vital electrical connections be labeled with “Do not unplug” signs.
Wi-Fi report: People can be online now anywhere in the Rec Hall with VOCCTWO wi-fi that is set up in the lounge. I am now online in the Pavilion today, but the signal is rather weak and slow.
Dick Martineau suggested that someone be designated whom we can call if the Wi-Fi is out.
Another question: Who can we call if the Wi-Fi is not working, and no one from the committee is at VO, during the summer? There are many problems still to be addressed.
Our program chairman, Connie Hill introduced our scheduled programs. On March 22 Dr. Sam Hijazi from FKCC will discuss the Microsoft spreadsheet program, Excel. It has many uses, so all will be interested in how to use it to the best advantage. Please send your questions to Connie Hill before the next meeting .
On March 29 Chip Hughs will discuss how to take the best care of your computer.
Donna Titsworth has volunteered to be our new Program Chairman after Connie Hill retires at the end of March. Thank you, Donna!
Help is needed for setting up tables and chairs before VOCC meetings. Please come early ( 10:00 a.m. ). Thank you! And please urge the VOCC management to hire someone to take Jimmy McLemore’s place in setting up for meetings, parties etc. We need help!
Program:
First topic: I reported that Linksys (wireless router brand) has 24/7 tech support at their web site, www.Linksys.com . My router just would not work. Marathon ’s Radio Shack told me to go to the web site, and sure enough, there is a program to download that will configure your router. You can put in an SSID (unique router name) and password for security. This was really simple.
However, I still had problems; so a tech person set up the router manually. She said that no installation disc was needed. Now the Wi-Fi is working perfectly (knock wood)!
I showed the group my Logitech Marble Mouse that I use instead of a mouse that you roll. It’s so convenient and I enjoy it. It never needs cleaning or a flat surface. I just roll the marble around to move the arrow.
I think that I learned as much as I taught today, thanks to help from the VOCC members present. I think that most people save their files in “My Documents,” and they end up with a jumble of files that they can’t find when they need them.
The first thing I do is add a “header” at the top of the document. You can print the filename and path; the page number; the date, etc. and these will appear on every page of the document. That makes the document easy to find if I want to go back to it.
I also have a folder within “My Documents” that contains all of my sub-folders….finance, legal, etc.
One member suggested that instead of one main folder, I should have a separate folder for each year. Then when I backup the files, I can drag only the new files to another drive or disc, and it won’t take so long. Most of the old files would not have changed.
Someone else recommended a free download called “copernic” that allows you to backup only the files that have changed since the last backup. Windows 98 had that backup program; but Windows XP Home Edition doesn’t have it; only Windows XP Professional does. Frustrating!
I also demonstrated “Disc Cleanup.” You can gain even more empty space on the drive by deleting all but the most recent restore point, if you are sure you won’t need the deleted ones.
We discussed how to put a shortcut on the desktop; how to schedule programs to run automatically. For instance, you can run defrag during the nighttime hours, since it take a lot of time.
I have deleted Norton Internet Security from my computer because the price is now $40 or $50 a year for updated virus definitions. Also, AOL gives you McAffee free with AOL, and it automatically updates definitions. I had to delete Norton, and now my computer runs so much faster! I was considering a new computer, but that problem has been solved.
The meeting ended at noon .
Rose Sangrey has offered to help beginners learn about computers. Just give her a call at 745-2454.
All are welcome at our VOCC meetings. Come one, come all! See you then! Respectfully submitted, Joan Brill, Secretary
These minutes will be posted in the Recreation Hall for those who can’t receive them via the internet. Spread the word! They can also be found online at www.voresort.org
www.ventureout.org (VO web site.) This web site is now combined with www.voresort.org (web information site).
votennis-l@ventureout.org (e-mail address- Tennis Club conference list)
vocc@googlegroups.com (address- VO and VOCC news conference list) NOTE NEW CHANGES TO THIS LIST ONLY. All the rest remain the same.
vocal-l@ventureout.org (address- Miscellaneous conference list)
If you wish to receive e-mail from our conference lists, send an
e-mail to charlesgerber@msn.com. Send him your address, name, spouse’s name, lot number and telephone number.
Joan Brill
Joan Brill's Web Site
March 1, 2006
Minutes of the Wednesday, March 1, 2006 VOCC
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, March 1, 2006 at 10:30 A.M. with President Judy Armento presiding. About 30 members were present.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as corrected by Judy Armento.
Treasurer Judi Dario was not present. A new bulb for the projector has arrived, and the cost was $305. The projector is now working.
The next movie on Saturday, March 4 will start at 7 p.m. First, the end of Meet the Fockers will be shown. Then a new movie, Walk the Line, will be shown. It depicts the life of Johnny Cash and has been nominated for an Academy Award. Popcorn costs $2.00 a person, soda is $.50.
Reminder: Don’t forget to donate your $1 at each meeting. We use the money to buy supplies (e.g. a new laptop computer) for the VOCC. Thanks!
Wi-Fi report: MANY people at VO have computers and would use Wi-Fi, according to a poll at a Block 3 discussion. There are 260 names on our VOCC conference list. There are many more computer users than Bocce players!
On Thursday at 3 p.m. Nortel will come to VO to plan a possible Wi-Fi system for the park. They supply the phone system in the office, and will discuss our Wi-Fi plans at no charge.
The President of Cisco Linksys lives on little Torch Key. He will come this afternoon to discuss a commercial setup.
Judy Armento was complimented on her talk to the Board of Directors at their meeting. However, the discussion was tabled abruptly and must be continued at another time.
Judy thanked Al Bergren for for buying the advertised HP 1210 printer-scanner-copier-fax and offering to leave it in the Computer Nook for all to use. However, someone must maintain the Nook year-round and check on the printer. A motion was made and passed to try leaving the printer in the Nook for a month as a trial. I just visited the Computer and Information Nook and it was beautifully supplied, with VO directory, telephone books, restaurant menus, etc. Thanks, Jim and Pat Rheinhart for a great job! The printer was also there, ready for use.
Judy thanked Jim Hayden again for keeping us informed of conditions at VO after the hurricanes that hit last summer. It was an invaluable service. Jim received applause at the Annual Meeting last Sunday.
Today our past president and primary organizer, Warren Beamont, demonstrated the capabilities of Google. Google started as a search engine. It may expand to China ! The price of a Google share is now over $300! Many companies pay to have their listings on Google. This earns Google an enormous amount of income.
Warren clicked on “Images” and then searched for Mona Lisa. MANY images of Mona Lisa came up. You can find an enormous range of photos at this site.
Under “Groups” Warren looked for VOCC.org and our own web site came up.
Froogle will give you the best price for practically anything you may want to buy.
GoogleEarth shows you maps of any place in the world. We found the map of VO, and under good conditions you can see the boats in the canals. The pictures were taken from satellites etc. The Iraqis use this plus GPS’s to decide where to place bombs.
More will show you 50 items provided by Google free.
For gmail you must have a sponsor. Google stores your email online so that it doesn’t take up space on your computer. You can send LARGE files with gmail. (AOL also stores your files, addresses etc. online if you wish.)
After Warren ’s demo, Jo Cryder showed us her photos and how her MAC works. She started out taking photos as a hobby. This became a profession. She sells photos and has just published a book called “Fences and Gates.” Another book will be published soon: “Shutters and Dormers.” These books are used by architects who may be looking for ideas.
She uses a film camera and also a digital camera. The iPhoto program comes with the Mac computer and seemed very simple to use. You can make albums, edit the photos, etc. You can also go online to order photos for a fee. You can also move the photo to Photoshop 7.0 for more editing.
Jo said that she would send us an e-mail with some of her favorite web sites links.
She also showed a slide-show of the VO show “Sounds of Music” complete with music by Karl Cole!
The meeting ended at around 12:15 P.M.
Rose Sangrey has offered to help beginners learn about computers. Just give her a call at 745-2454.
The next meeting will be on Wednesday, March 8, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. Dr. Sam Hijazi from FKCC will demonstrate the Microsoft Excel (spreadsheet-database) program. On March 15 Joan Brill will demonstrate how to organize your files so that you can find them when you need them; also some other surprise items. On March 22 we will learn about financial reports, Quicken and Turbo Tax. On March 29 Chip Hughes will speak about how to care for your computer, and also demonstrate the new operating system, MS Vista.
Come one, come all! See you then!
Respectfully submitted, Joan Brill, Secretary
These minutes will be posted in the Recreation Hall for those who can’t receive them via the internet. Spread the word! They can also be found online at www.voresort.org
www.ventureout.org (VO web site.) This web site is now combined with www.voresort.org (web information site).
votennis-l@ventureout.org (e-mail address- Tennis Club conference list)
vocc@googlegroups.com (address- VO and VOCC news conference list) NOTE NEW CHANGES TO THIS LIST ONLY. All the rest remain the same.
vocal-l@ventureout.org (address- Miscellaneous conference list)
If you wish to receive e-mail from our conference lists, send an
e-mail to charlesgerber@msn.com. Send him your address, name, spouse’s name, lot number and telephone number.
Joan Brill
January 15, 2006
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, February 15, 2006 at 10:30 A.M. with President Judy Armento presiding. About 40 members were present, and many members brought their laptop computers.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as published.
Treasurer Judi Dario reported that we have $1,417.50 in the treasury. The computer upgrade cost for AHH Computer Service was $146.00. The last movie brought in $168.00.
The next movie on Saturday, February 18 will be Meet the Fockers with Ben Stiller, Barbra Streisand and Robert DeNiro. It is a sequel to Meet the Parents .
Reminder: Don’t forget to donate your $1 at each meeting. We use the money to buy supplies (e.g. a new laptop computer) for the VOCC. Thanks!
Jo Cryder was welcomed back to the VOCC. She is a gifted photographer and will soon see the publication of her new book, 1000 Fences and Gates in March or April, 2006. Her next book will feature Dormers and Shutters .
Wi-Fi report: Wi-Fi is working in the Computer and Information Nook in the Rec Hall! Visitors are enjoying this amenity. The Board of Directors has a discussion item on the agenda for the meeting Monday, February 20, to possibly ammend the budget for 2006-2007 to include spending up to $16,000 for getting Wi-Fi up and running for everyone in the park. This represents a cost of $25 per lot; but it will help keep VO a Five Star park. Like the pool and tennis court, it may not be used by all residents. However, Wi-Fi is being offered free in more and more locations, and VO will be keeping up with the new trends
Our VOCC computer has been overhauled by Chip Hughes, and it is now very fast. The hard drive was reformatted, and all the necessary programs were re-installed. We have also bought a wireless mouse and a wireless keyboard.
Program Chairman Connie Hill presented Dr. Sam Hijazi of Florida Keys Community College . His subject again was MS Word, and everything that he showed us can be done will all versions of Word back to 1997.
Dr. Hajazi’s demo was quite swift and fascinating, but if you wish to know the details, you really must attend the meetings. I can give you only an overall view of a few items that were demonstrated.
Tool bars were shown again. There are many available tool bars. If you right click on any item you will see a menu for that item. Right click in a blank space to see what appears. You may be surprised!
Tables were also illustrated, complete with color, math formulas, and special effects. If complicated calculations are needed, use Excel. You can insert an Excel table within Word!
Perhaps we can have a class on Excel one of these days. ACCESS is used for databases. Access enables you to do queries…that is, find all the items in a certain category. Do you know that the “gutter” is in page setup? It enables you to move the text to the right so that there is more room for punching holes for a loose leaf notebook.
If you want to make a calendar, go to Microsoft Online and search for one that you can personalize and print.
Templates and letterheads were also illustrated, and also how to make a Newsletter with sections, fonts and headings.
MS Word is a complex program and its potential is limitless. It would be nice if all of us were as competent as Dr. Sam!
Rose Sangrey has offered to help beginners learn about computers. Just give her a call at 745-2454.
The next meeting will be on Wednesday, February 22, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. IT WILL BE HELD IN THE LOUNGE above the store. The subject will be SECURING WI-FI connections and routers so that no one can steal your information or your identity. The lounge can seat 60 people. Bring your computers if you wish. Come one, come all! See you then!
Respectfully submitted, Joan Brill, Secretary
Joan Brill
Joan Brill's Web Site
January 8, 2996
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, February 8, 2006 at 10:30 A.M. with President Judy Armento presiding. About 40 members were present, and many members brought their laptop computers.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as published.
Judi Dario, our treasurer, reported that we have $1,536.10 in the treasury. The computer upgrade charge for AHH Computer Service was $146.00.
Reminder: Don’t forget to donate your $1 at each meeting. We use the money to buy supplies (e.g. a new laptop computer) for the VOCC. Thanks!
The VOCC Conference List address has changed. New address: vocc@googlegroups.com . Please change the eddress on your computer. The VOCAL eddress and all other eddresses remain the same.
Today’s program on WI-FI (Wireless Fidelity) was presented by Jerry Heere, our resident Wi-Fi guru.
What is Wi-Fi, and why is it needed? Wi-Fi enables you to be online without being connected to a modem or any other wire. In order to use Wi-Fi, you must have a Wireless card (e.g. D-Link AirPlus) installed in the slot on the side of your laptop. (You will probably have to install a program from an included CD.) Most new computers have the Wi-Fi already installed on the hard drive.
If you have Wi-Fi enabled on your computer, you will be able to get online at many hotels, airports, HotSpotz, and KOA Kampgrounds, many of which supply internet access free of charge. The cities of Philadelphia and Dayton , Ohio supply free Wi-Fi to all.
I have Broadband Access from Comcast that I pay for. I also have a Linksys Wireless-G Broadband Router that I connect to the Comcast Broadband Modem. This enables me to use my laptop and be online anywhere in the house or even outside on the deck. It also enables my husband to be online with HIS computer, with no connection wires. And I don't have to pay for an extra connection.
At home in New York , we have a four level house. My guests can use their computers online if they have the wireless card installed in their computers. None of these computers will tie up the telephone lines.
Venture Out is trying to offer free Wi-Fi to all of the units at VO. So far, there is a signal from the lounge Comcast modem and the Linksys router that reaches to areas near the lounge. Now we need to boost the signal, perhaps from the flagpole (?) so that it reaches all 659 units in the park.
Wi-Fi signals are line-of-sight, similar to cell phone technology. The metal in our walls can interfere with reception.
Unfortunately, Jerry was unable to connect via Wi-Fi in the Pavilion. Several wireless networks were available, but their signals were not strong enough to enable Jerry to go online.
Jerry has a Wi-Fi connection that people are welcome to use. It is not secured. He is in lot #416 and his phone number is 484-220-0530 (a long distance number).
We discussed the problems of security when you use Wi-Fi. Jerry feels that Wi-Fi connections are relatively secure. Most companies are constantly changing channels and have their own firewalls. If someone really wants to spy on your computer, he will find a way. Paul removes his network card when he is not online.
My Wi-Fi network requires a password. It is rather complicated to establish a password, but since Jerry couldn’t get online, he couldn’t demonstrate the process. I have printed out the instructions, if anyone needs them.
By the way, if you have a Linksys router and have problems with settings, you can reset it to the defaults by pressing the tiny reset button (on the back) with a pencil or pointed object. Then you can re-enter the passwords etc.
We also discussed resetting the modem and router if they are not working. Disconnect all wires; unplug from electricity. Wait a minute. Then reconnect the modem until all lights are normal. Then connect the router. If you still have problems, reboot the computer. If you need to, print these instructions for future reference.
You can go to the HotSpotz website and get a list of their locations, and which ones are free. “Borders” charges a rather steep fee.
Jerry also showed us his continuing ink flo printer cartridge. It costs $8, and contains 4 oz of printer fluid. (A regular cartridge costs about $35 and contains ½ oz of fluid.) However, if you don’t use the printer for 2 weeks, you may have problems using the liquid cartridge. Jerry was using an Epson printer. It prints fair photos.
I like the HP flatbed scanner-printer-fax combination, and you cannot use the liquid cartridge with HP products. If you do a lot of printing, you should consider the continuing ink flo cartridge that can be used on Epson and/or Canon printers.
Rose Sangrey has offered to help beginners learn about computers. Just give her a call at 745-2454.
The next meeting will be on Wednesday, February 15, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. Come one, come all! See you then!
Respectfully submitted, Joan Brill, Secretary
February 1, 2006
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, February 1, 2006 at 10:30 A.M. with President Judy Armento in charge. About 28 members were present to exchange ideas and ask questions.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as published.
Judi Dario, our treasurer, reported (after the meeting) that we have $1,492.55 in the treasury.
The next movie will be “Cinderella Man” with Russell Crowe and Rene Zellweger on Saturday, February 4 at 7:30 P.M. in the Pavilion. “Cinderella Man” is not about Cinderella. It’s about a boxer who makes a comeback, and is based on true facts. It is supposed to be terrific, so come and find out for yourself!
Reminder: Don’t forget to donate your $1 at each meeting. We use the money to buy supplies (e.g. a new laptop computer) for the VOCC. Thanks!
Report on Wi-Fi for VO: Jim Hayden reported that the Comcast Modem is WORKING! Hurray! Jerry Heere sent an e-mail when he was parked in his car near the store. Now we need boosters so that everyone in the park can receive the signal. Progress is being made!
The VOCC Conference List address has changed. New address: vocc@googlegroups.com . Please change the eddress on your computer.
Chip Hughes is working on the VOCC computer to bring it up to its best capability.
Our guru today was Tom Will, and he showed us his Rand-McNally progam: “StreetFinder, 1996 version.” (I liked his slogan---PPPPP – Prior preparation prevents poor performance.) Tom didn’t have much notice for preparation, but his program was very interesting.
Tom has later versions, but he finds that they are more complicated and difficult to use. I find that that is true for many of the later versions and gadgets. Tom keeps all of his old computers in the attic---even his first Commodore computer. (So do I.)
If you wish to find a particular address, you need only enter e.g. 1270 Flagler, and chances are that Key West will come up. You will also see a complete, simple, legible map of the area. Tom uses this technique to chart his journey to all the yard sales on a particular day!
The maps are much clearer than those on Mapquest. To use Mapquest, go to www.mapquest.com and you can enter an address to see a map of the area. If you do a route, don’t ask for the SHORTEST route. It will not be easy to follow.
The scenic route will be VERY long.
The FASTEST route is best. Thank you, Tom for an interesting program on short notice!
Rose Sangrey has offered to help beginners learn about computers. Just give her a call at 745-2454.
The next meeting will be on Wednesday, February 8, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. We will learn about Wi-Fi—what it is, how to use it, how to set it up on your computer, etc. Come one, come all! See you then!
Respectfully submitted, Joan Brill, Secretary
These minutes will be posted in the Recreation Hall for those who can’t receive them via the internet. Spread the word! They can also be found online at www.voresort.org
www.ventureout.org (VO web site.) This web site is now combined with www.voresort.org (web information site).
votennis-l@ventureout.org (e-mail address- Tennis Club conference list)
vocc@googlegroups.com (address- VO and VOCC news conference list) NOTE NEW CHANGES TO THIS LIST ONLY. All the rest remain the same.
vocal-l@ventureout.org (address- Miscellaneous conference list)
If you wish to receive e-mail from our conference lists, send an
e-mail to charlesgerber@msn.com. Send him your address, name, spouse’s name, lot number and telephone number.
Joan Brill
Joan Brill's Web Site
January 25, 2006
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, January 25, 2006 at 10:30 A.M. with President Judy Armento in charge. About 32 members were present to exchange ideas and ask questions.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as published.
Judi Dario, our treasurer, reported that we have $1,510.25 in the treasury. One hundred people attended the fabulous movie, “March of the Penguins.” Receipts were $211 for popcorn and soda. Last meeting receipts: $21. Paid out: $50 to Chip Hughs for last week’s program.
The next movie will be “Cinderella Man” on Saturday, February 4 at 7:30 P.M. in the Pavilion. THANKS TO DON DARIO for making the popcorn!
Reminder: Don’t forget to donate your $1 at each meeting. We use the money to buy supplies (e.g. a new laptop computer) for the VOCC. Thanks!
A report on Wi-Fi progress was handed out. The router is working well, but the Comcast Modem is not working. The modem is supposed to be repaired ANY DAY!
The VOCC Conference List address has changed. New address: vocc@googlegroups.com . Please change the eddress on your computer.
The VOCC is discussing the purchase of a new laptop computer. Jim Hayden made a motion that we wait until next year to buy a PC because the new VISTA operating system is about to be launched by Microsoft. Then we will have two computers, one with XP and one with VISTA . VISTA has some advantages and it won’t crash. The motion was seconded and passed.
Program Chairman Connie Hill introduced our speaker, Dr. Sam Hijazi from FKCC, and his wife, Dr. Miriam Hijazi.
Dr. Sam Hijazi demonstrated the MS Word program, and it was fascinating. The demo applies to MSWord 1997-2003, and you had to see the demo to believe it.
Reminders for those who attended:
1. How to display and change the toolbars: Click on VIEW and point to TOOLBARS. It’s amazing how many different toolbars can be displayed. Be sure that STANDARD and FORMATTING are checked. Experiment with the others! Also, the RULER is useful. Just check it under VIEW.
2. Dr. H then demonstrated OUTLINING. You can specify how many levels you want, and whether you want to show “I” or “1” or A or a etc. etc.
3. I just typed ~~~ three times and pressed ENTER. That make the above squiggle.
That was ___ (underline) typed three times plus ENTER.
4. How do you make a table, complete with various fonts, sorting, colors, lining up the decimal points, etc? That was really interesting, but too much to explain here. For really complicated tables, you can use a Works spreadsheet or Excel or Access.
5. We discussed Templates, e.g. for writing letters. They have the heading, address, etc. all prepared in advance. You then use “save as…” and give your template a new name and leave the original Template unchanged for the next use. You can make the Template “read only” by checking that under “properties.” Then no one can change the document.
6. Dr. H demonstrated the use of TABS. That little box on the upper left can be changed from L (left) to R (right) to C (center) to . (decminal) etc.by clicking on the box. Be sure that the RULER is showing (under VIEW.)
6. If you want to learn more and register for a course at FKCC, you may take a Continuing Education course (too late for this semester) or a one day elementary or intermediate seminar. Call 305-809-3280 for one day classes; 305-809-3541 for Dr. Hijazi. Dr. Hijazi doesn’t recommend “Word for Dummies” because it is too elementary for most of us. Call Dr. Hijazi for book recommendations.
You can also go to the Word menus and explore all of them. The possibilities are endless!
Rose Sangrey has offered to help beginners learn about computers. Just give her a call at 745-2454.
The next meeting will be on Wednesday, February 1, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. Come one, come all! See you then!
Respectfully submitted, Joan Brill, Secretary
These minutes will be posted in the Recreation Hall for those who can’t receive them via the internet. Spread the word! They can also be found online at www.voresort.org
www.ventureout.org (VO web site.) This web site is now combined with www.voresort.org (web information site).
votennis-l@ventureout.org (e-mail address- Tennis Club conference list)
vocc@googlegroups.com (address- VO and VOCC news conference list)
Please not the change of address
vocal-l@ventureout.org (address- Miscellaneous conference list)
If you wish to receive e-mail from our conference lists, send an
e-mail to charlesgerber@msn.com. Send him your address, name, spouse’s name, lot number and telephone number.
Joan Brill
Joan Brill's Web Site
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January 18, 2006
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, January 18, 2006 at 10:30 A.M. with President Judy Armento in charge. About 32 members were present to exchange ideas and ask questions.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as published.
Judi Dario, our treasurer, reported that we have $1,342 in the treasury. Reminder: Don’t forget to donate your $1 at each meeting. We use the money to buy supplies (e.g. a new laptop computer) for the VOCC. Thanks!
The next movie will be on Saturday, January 21, 2006 at 7:30 P.M. The movie has changed. We will show “March of the Penguins.” The movie is free, but popcorn is $2.00
Vice-President Jim Hayden reported on the progress toward supplying free Wi-Fi for Venture Out.
The program was presented by Chip Hughs from A.H.H. Computer Service. Chip has helped may VO owners with their PC problems. He is available at 305-515-2841 on Tuesdays, Fridays, and weekends.
Questions discussed:
1. I have two important programs that are DOS based, and they won’t run on Windows XP. Chip said that it is possible to partition the hard drive and put Windows 98 on one partition and Windows XP on the other partition. Then you can run the DOS based programs on Windows 98. (I try to keep an older computer running on Windows 98, but it is not available when I bring only the laptop to Florida .)
2. Vista is the new operating system that Microsoft will introduce. It has some advantages over XP. You don’t have to keep rebooting. It is resistant to viruses. However it requires 512 bytes-2 gigs of memory. We will all have to get new computers! (Planned obsolescence.)
3. Should we leave our computers on all day, or keep shutting down? Chip said that it is a matter of preference. He shuts the computer down, just as he turns off lights he is not using. But it is up to the individual. Don’t stay online all day, because that invites viruses and tampering by outsiders.
4. How can you get rid of dust on your computer? Dust the PC with a hand compressor. Spray Windex on a cloth and use that to clean the screen. Simple Green does a good job for cleaning the keys. Don’t spray chemicals directly on the computer.
5. Wireless keyboards and mouses are good, but there’s a lag time that may interfere with video games.
6. New computers don’t have as much tendency to overheat as the older ones. Be careful about leaving computers in a hot room or in the sun, if you will not be around.
7. Various CD-DVD drives were shown. Floppy drives will soon be unavailable. Copy the floppy onto a folder on a CD, so that the programs can still be used. (You can still buy external floppy drives for around $30.) Travel or jump drives are best for backing up important files. You can also use external drives that plug into USB ports. Floppies will fail eventually. CD-RW’s don’t last as long as CD-R’s. Chip backs up only on CD-R’s. I use CD-RW’s, and eventually they fail and I have to use a new one. But external drives are best if your files are truly vital.
CD’s hold about 700 Mgs. You can determine the size of groups of files by highlighting them, right click and go to “properties.” That will tell you how many files will fit on the CD.
8. Chip said that it is best not to UPGRADE operating systems (OS). Format the drive and then load the new operating system. If you upgrade, many of the old files will still remain on the drive and will corrupt the new OS.
9. Windows XP Professional is similar to Windows XP Home Edition. However, Professional has programs that big businesses need. Home Edition has some of the items deleted, and it is less expensive. However, Home Edition doesn’t have a “Backup” program. If you get that program from Professional, you can install it in Home Edition, and it will work fine.
10. It is important to protect the UPPER surface of discs. You can write on the upper surface with a FELT tipped pen. Write toward the outside of the disc. The inner circle will be used first, so protect that.
11. What brand PC does Chip recommend? HP (who now owns Compaq too) is good. Dell is also good. Be careful what you order because your computer will arrive with very few programs installed; or they may be programs that you don't want. You may have to pay extra for CD drives, etc. So be careful.
12. The club notebook computer was not working well, so Jim Rhinehart finally got a Dell computer connected to our projector, and Chip showed us a Power Point presentation on the parts of computers. It was really interesting to see where the drives, USB’s etc. were located and how computers have evolved through the years. We ran out of time, so the meeting adjourned at around 12:15 P.M.
Rose Sangrey has offered to help beginners learn about computers. Just give her a call at 745-2454.
The next meeting will be on January 25, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. Come one, come all! Dr. Hadjasi (sp?) from Florida Keys Community college will speak to us about Word. See you then!
Respectfully submitted, Joan Brill, Secretary
These minutes will be posted in the Recreation Hall for those who can’t receive them via the internet. Spread the word! They can also be found online at www.voresort.org
www.ventureout.org (VO web site.) This web site is now combined with www.voresort.org (web information site).
votennis-l@ventureout.org (e-mail address- Tennis Club conference list)
vocc-l@ventureout.org (address- VO and VOCC news conference list)
vocal-l@ventureout.org (address- Miscellaneous conference list)
If you wish to receive e-mail from our conference lists, send an
e-mail to charlesgerber@msn.com. Send him your address, name, spouse’s name, lot number and telephone number.
Joan Brill
Joan Brill's Web Site
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January 11, 2006
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, January 11, 2006 at 10:30 A.M. with President Jim Hayden presiding. About 25 members were present to exchange ideas and ask questions.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as published.
Judi Dario, our treasurer, was away, but it was reported that we have about $1,359 in the treasury. Reminder: Don’t forget to donate your $1 at each meeting. Only $18 was collected today, so don’t forget!
The next movie will be on Saturday, January 21, 2006 at 7:30 P.M. The show will be Mr. and Mrs. Smith, with Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. The movie is free. Popcorn is $2.00
Elections were held, as directed in our by-laws.
President- Judy Armento
Vice-President- Jim Hayden
Secretary- Joan Brill
Treasurer- Judy Dario
Connie Hill will continue as program chairman for this year, but we’ll need someone new for Jan 2007. Any volunteers?
Today’s program was given by Lee Pennington, a computer wizard extraordinaire!
Questions discussed:
1. What should you delete from msconfig startup so that you don’t have many programs running in the background and slowing down your computer? One answer: Uncheck everything from startup. The programs that are really needed will come up in the system tray. You may have to turn on Norton Anti-virus to make sure it is protecting your computer. (This was also discussed last week.)
2. How to remove hard drive partitions: There’s a program called “Partition Magic” that will partition a hard drive, or remove the partitions. It may be available at cnet.com or znet.com, tucows.com or download.com. These web sites offer “freeware” or free programs that you may need. I think that earlier versions of Windows may need to be partitioned more than the later versions. You may want separate partitions for different PC users.
3. Lee demonstrated Scandisk. He decided that you should check “fix automatically” because without that checked, the process will take too long, and you’ll have to sit at the computer until the scan is completed.
4. Before you run “defrag”, boot up in safe mode by tapping F8. Then all background programs are closed, and the defrag is much faster. You can also hold control-delete-alt and delete the programs that are running in the background.
All these processes speed up the computer: defrag, disk cleanup, anti-spyware programs.
Before you delete a file, you can see if it is vital to the operation of your computer by changing the name. Add your own name to the name of the file. Then if the computer doesn’t work, you can remove your name. You can also do a search for all files that contain your name, to find any that you have changed.
Lee also demonstrated wild cards (*), how to use “task scheduler” (in control panel), etc.
We all learned a great deal. Come to the club to get the info first hand!
Judy Armento has requested that a few of you come at 10:15 a.m. before each meeting to help set up the chairs and tables. THANKS!
If you really want to improve your skills, you have to come to the VOCC. I can only give you a summary of what was discussed.
Rose Sangrey has offered to help beginners learn about computers. Just give her a call at 745-2454.
The meeting adjourned at around noon .
The next meeting will be on January 18, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. Come one, come all! We all learn something, and many of us learn a great deal! We have some wonderful computer gurus who come to the VOCC and offer their expertise.
Respectfully submitted, Joan Brill, Secretary
These minutes will be posted in the Recreation Hall for those who can’t receive them via the internet. Spread the word! They can also be found online at www.voresort.org
www.ventureout.org (VO web site.) This web site is now combined with www.voresort.org (web information site).
votennis-l@ventureout.org (e-mail address- Tennis Club conference list)
vocc-l@ventureout.org (address- VO and VOCC news conference list)
vocal-l@ventureout.org (address- Miscellaneous conference list)
If you wish to receive e-mail from our conference lists, send an
e-mail to charlesgerber@msn.com. Send him your address, name, spouse’s name, lot number and telephone number.
Joan Brill
Joan Brill's Web Site
January 4, 2006
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, January 4, 2006 at 10:30 A.M. with Paul Kallmeyer presiding. President Jim Hayden was under the weather and did not attend. About 15 members were present to exchange ideas and ask questions.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as published.
Judi Dario, our treasurer, reported $1,359 in the treasury. There was a discussion about purchasing a new laptop for the VOCC. Jim Rhinehart will research this.
The next movie will be on Saturday, January 21, 2006 at 7:30 P.M. The show will be Mr. and Mrs. Smith . The movie is free. Popcorn is $2.00
The commercial Comcast connection in the adult lounge is still not working. Judy Armento from the lounge committee said that she will look into this. Without that signal we can not supply Wi-Fi to anyone.
Elections for VOCC officers will take place at the second meeting in January. Please let Jim know if you are willing to serve as President or Vice-President. It would be much appreciated. Jim Hayden has done a great job, but he says he needs a rest! And Mike Wallace is having medical problems and has resigned as Vice-President. There will be nominations from the floor. I have spoken to several candidates who are seriously considering presiding at meetings.
Connie Hill has some really interesting programs planned, so watch for her e-mails.
Questions discussed:
1. What should you delete fromm msconfig startup so that you don’t have many programs running in the background and slowing down your computer? One answer: Uncheck everything from startup. The programs that are really needed will come up in the system tray. You may have to turn on Norton Anti-virus to make sure it is protecting your computer.
We learned from Lee Pennington that all hard drives fail eventually. We demonstrated “diskcheck” (error checking) and how to find it. Lee says not to have bad sectors repaired automatically. If bad sectors are found, you will be told. If there are many bad sectors, you’ll know that your computer may be in danger of crashing. Be sure to backup your files.
Paul also showed how to defragment your hard drive. It works much faster if you first close all the programs running in the system tray. You can use control+alternate+delete to see what is running, and close most of the programs running. Or you can boot up in safe mode by tapping F8 (I think).
We showed how to change your desktop background; how to handle the icons.
We also demonstrated Picasa, and how to make a collage, a gift CD, etc.
If you really want to improve your skills, you have to come to the VOCC. I can only give you a summary of what was discussed.
A good time was had by all!
Rose Sangrey has offered to help beginners learn about computers. Just give her a call. She’s in the book! Rose, if that’s the wrong number, please let everyone know the correct phone number.
The meeting adjourned at around noon .
The next meeting will be on January 11, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. Come one, come all! We all learn something, and many of us learn a great deal! We have some wonderful computer gurus who come to the VOCC and offer their expertise.
Respectfully submitted, Joan Brill, Secretary
These minutes will be posted in the Recreation Hall for those who can’t receive them via the internet. Spread the word! They can also be found online at www.voresort.org
www.ventureout.org (VO web site.) This web site is now combined with www.voresort.org (web information site).
votennis-l@ventureout.org (e-mail address- Tennis Club conference list)
vocc-l@ventureout.org (address- VO and VOCC news conference list)
vocal-l@ventureout.org (address- Miscellaneous conference list)
If you wish to receive e-mail from our conference lists, send an
e-mail to charlesgerber@msn.com. Send him your address, name, spouse’s name, lot number and telephone number.
Joan Brill
Joan Brill's Web Site
December 21, 2005
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, December 21, 2005 at 10:30 A.M. with Jim Hayden presiding. About 10 members attended to exchange ideas and ask questions.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as published.
Judi Dario, our treasurer, was not present. The movie last Saturday earned around $100.
Access to Wi-Fi for all VO residents was again discussed in great detail for most of the meeting. The BOD has offered to pay a professional Wi-Fi provider to survey the park and ascertain our needs. However, they want the VOCC to do the research necessary to find professional advice. The commercial Comcast connection in the adult lounge is not working. The first step should be to remedy this problem. Jim said he would work on this.
Elections for VOCC officers will take place at the second meeting in January. Please let Jim know if you are willing to serve as President or Vice-President. It would be much appreciated. Jim Hayden has done a great job, but he says he needs a rest! And Mike Wallace is having medical problems and has resigned as Vice-President. There will be nominations from the floor.
Jim Hayden gave this URL for finding comparative prices for just about any item: www.mysimon.com .
Questions discussed:
1. The difference between a left click and a right click on the mouse. (Come to meetings to get the answer!) A RIGHT click yields a MENU for copy, delete, cut, paste, send to, etc. At the bottom will be “properties.” If you open this item, you will learn the size of a file and everything about it. It’s a good idea to use this on attachments that are sent in e-mail. Then you’ll know if you want to download it onto your computer.
2. Ramey uses a right click to “resize” photos so that they can be e-mailed more easily. (AOL does this automatically.)
3. We discussed whether to upgrade the VOCC computer. It may need a new battery. This may be a good time to replace the laptop, now that prices are getting lower, rather than spend money on upgrading. If the park pays for Wi-Fi, we will have money for other items like a new laptop.
Ramey reported that Dell has recalled the batteries in some of their notebook computers. He has e-mailed the notice to the conference list, since many of our members have Dell computers. Also, be careful of dangerous rebuilt batteries that are fraudulent and may be dangerous.
Rose Sangrey has offered to help beginners learn about computers. Just give her a call. She’s in the book!
The meeting adjourned at around noon .
THERE WILL BE NO VOCC MEETING NEXT WEEK ON DECEMBER 28.
Be sure to join us on Wednesday, January 4, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. This is the time to bring your questions, concerns, and knowledge for others.
Respectfully submitted, Joan Brill, Secretary
Joan Brill
Joan Brill's Web Site
December 14, 2005
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, December 14, 2005 at 10:30 A.M. with Jim Hayden presiding. About 14 members attended to exchange ideas and ask questions.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as published.
Judi Dario, our treasurer, reported $1,272.20 in the treasury.
The next movie will be “Christmas with the Kranks” on Saturday, December 17 at 7:30 P.M. in the Pavilion. Admission is free. Our delicious popcorn is $2.00 as usual. Judi can use help in setting up chairs before the movie. All are welcome to help!
Access to Wi-Fi for all VO residents was again discussed. President Tom Ryan of the Board of Trustees says that the Board would like estimates from professional companies. Lee Pennington says that bandwidth is very important for traffic capacity. Comcast has been very uncooperative. Joan Brill suggested that several computer experts in the park could meet and give their professional opinions. This would save the park a great deal of money, if it is successful. We have at least three very knowledgeable people that I know of.
Jim Rhinehart reported on the Computer and Information Nook in the Rec Hall. The Bedsoles used to take care of it, but they are no longer in the park. The modem connection cord is missing again. Jim will try to get the Nook back in good shape. Thanks, Jim.
Elections for VOCC officers will take place at the second meeting in January. Please let Jim know if you are willing to serve as President or Vice-President. It would be much appreciated. Jim Hayden has done a great job, but he says he needs a rest! And Mike Wallace is having medical problems and has resigned as Vice-President.
Jim Rhinehart reported that every day he receives about 6 copies of a virus on his computer. He doesn’t know who is sending it to him. Please run your virus-check programs to make sure you don’t have one on YOUR computer. It may say something about “FBI” in the subject. If the FBI were really trying to get information from you, they would not do it through e-mail. Apparently people who use Outlook Express are especially vulnerable to this dangerous hoax.
AVG.com has an excellent free anti-virus program that you can download. I believe that AOL provides its own free anti-virus and anti-spyware programs. It’s really important to have SOME anti-virus protection such as Norton or McAffee, for your own protection, and for the protection of those to whom you send messages.
Rose Sangrey has offered to help beginners learn about computers. Just give her a call. She’s in the book!
Be sure to join us next Wednesday, December 21 at 10:30 a.m. This is the time to bring your questions, concerns, and knowledge for others.
Respectfully submitted,
Joan Brill, Secretary
December 7, 2005
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, December 7, 2005 at 10:30 A.M. with Paul Kallmeyer presiding. President Jim Hayden was not feeling well. Get well soon, Jim! We need you. About seven members attended to exchange ideas and ask questions.
The minutes of the last meeting were not discussed. Several of our members had gone north for the holidays; and others were at the Domino Tournament. There was no treasurer’s report.
The next movie will be “Christmas with the Kranks” on Saturday, December 17 at 7:30 P.M. in the Pavilion. Admission is free. Our delicious popcorn is $2.00 as usual. Judi can use help in setting up chairs before the movie. All are welcome to help!
Ramey Hoskins would like to know if you can dial in to use Yahoo, or if you need an ISP to get to Yahoo and receive and send mail. I believe that you need an ISP. If anyone has information, please contact Ramey.
Larry Anson, a Venture Out board member, visited the VOCC meeting to urge that we install a Wi-Fi system that is available to all. If anyone has the information of a system such as the KOA’s use, please contact Jim Hayden or Larry Anson.
“Fred” has a new Dell laptop, and he needs help in using it for e-mail etc. He brought the computer to the meeting; and since he uses AOL, I was able to help him with the basic techniques in using a computer. Fred was able to connect to AOL by using the VOCC telephone jack in the Pavilion. While he was online, my wi-fi network showed up at the bottom of his screen! It wasn’t strong enough to connect with, but it was there.
It was reported that if you have a problem with an HP computer, you can pay $40-$45 to solve one problem. The technicians will help you until the problem is solved. (Microsoft used to have a similar service. I don’t know if they still have it. Any comments?)
You can also pay for a year’s support and get the same help.
Lee Pennington was another new attendee. He is very knowledgeable about computers. I’m sure that he will contribute a lot to the VOCC pool of knowledge!
I wish to make my Wi-Fi network secure with a password. I am having problems doing this, and I can’t find the Linksys manual and CD. Perhaps I left it in NY. I have Model WRT54G. Can anyone help? Jerry Heere said that he will help me when he arrives; but that is rather long to have an unsecured network.
Be sure to join us next Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. This is the time to bring your questions, concerns, and knowledge for others.
Respectfully submitted,
Joan Brill, Secretary
These minutes will be posted in the Recreation Hall for those who can’t receive them via the internet. Spread the word! They can also be found online at www.voresort.org
Respectfully submitted,
Joan Brill, secretary
www.ventureout.org (VO web site.) This web site is now combined with www.voresort.org (web information site).
votennis-l@ventureout.org (e-mail address- Tennis Club conference list)
vocc-l@ventureout.org (address- VO and VOCC news conference list)
vocal-l@ventureout.org (address- Miscellaneous conference list)
If you wish to send or receive e-mail using our VO conference lists, send an
e-mail to charlesgerber@msn.com. Send him your address, name, spouse’s name, lot number and telephone number.
Joan Brill
Joan Brill's Web Site
November 30, 2005
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, November 30, 2005 at 10:30 A.M. with President Jim Hayden presiding. Eight members attended and donated their $1.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as published on the conference list.
Treasurer and Movie Director Judi Dario reported $1,259.20 in the bank account. The next movie will be “Christmas with the Cranks” on Saturday, December 17 at 7:30 P.M. in the Pavilion. Admission is free. Our delicious popcorn is $2.00 as usual. Judi can use help in setting up chairs before the movie. All are welcome to help!
Two new members, Peggy and David attended the meeting. They requested advice on buying a new computer. Suggestions: Dell; HP. Many pros and cons were pointed out. It is advisable to have as many USB ports as possible. However, I only have two. You don’t have to reboot when you change hardware that is connected to USB ports. I change from the printer to the camera doc etc. with no problem. I find that the external USB ports are a nuisance.
We are still attempting to provide Wi-Fi for all. Terry O’Connor suggested that a few people on each block subscribe to Comcast Broadband or Bellsouth DSL and that they have wireless routers. Then those nearby could pick up the signal and split the cost. I have been doing that, and so far it is excellent; except that Comcast is having technical problems (from around 4 p.m. yesterday). What good is it if it doesn’t work?????
Jim Hayden has had severe problems trying to get Comcast Broadband, and he still isn’t on-line.
The Sprint card that supplies on-line access everywhere would cost $60 for me, instead of $80, because I am considered a business customer of Sprint. I receive 10% discount for my cell phone because I BELONG TO A CREDIT UNION! Isn’t that amazing? The only problem is that Paul wouldn’t be able to get on-line unless he got the card, too. The card is about $150, but as a business customer I would receive the card free. Interesting.
Call the new Sprint Store in Key West (296-2922) for more information. Perhaps we could get a group rate! You can try it free for 14 days.
I was asked to publish the information re a computer expert who will visit you and solve problems. Chip Hughes charges $39 an hour and he is very knowledgeable. 305-515-2841. ahhcomputer@aol.com . Secretary’s note: (He’s on AOL??????!!!!)
Beware of some SONY Cd’s and DVD’s. They destroy computers. SONY is being sued. These items invade your computer. They don’t affect MAC’s.
Terry O’Connor has a MAC and is knows a great deal about computers. He was very helpful at the meeting.
Judi Dario just downloaded a program called HIPPO at HIPPO.com that is supposed to clean up your computer. She hadn’t tried it yet. I was asked to supply the following information:
I clean up my computer in this way: When you are using personal information at your bank etc., afterward go to “Internet Options.” You’ll find it in Internet Explorer or in AOL under Settings or at the top in Internet Explorer. Click on “Delete files” and “Delete off-line files. Push “enter.” Then click “Delete Cookies.” I learned this from my computer expert, my grandson Aaron.
You can also go to “My computer.” Right click on the C drive. Click on “properties.” Then click on “Disk cleanup.” That gets rid of all unnecessary files and makes more room on your hard drive. You can also run “defrag” and “Scan disk” from there.
Be sure to join us next Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. This is the time to bring your questions, concerns, and knowledge for others.
Respectfully submitted,
Joan Brill, Secretary
Joan Brill
Joan Brill's Web Site
November 23, 2005
The VOCC met at the Pavilion on Wednesday, November 23, 2005 at 10:30 A.M. with President Jim Hayden presiding. Five members attended and donated their $1.
The minutes of the last meeting were approved as published on the conference list.
Treasurer and Movie Director Judi Dario was not in attendance so there was no treasurer’s report.
Mike Wallace has resigned as our Vice-President due to health problems. He doesn’t know when he will arrive this year. We decided not to elect or appoint anyone else until it is time for the new election of the VOCC.
Jim Rhinehart may also be late arriving at Venture Out. Warren Beaumont expects to arrive in early January.
We again discussed the technical problems of providing Wi-Fi to all of Venture Out. So far no easy solution has been found. Joan Brill reported that KOA Kampgrounds now provide free Wi-Fi at all locations. (The camping price per night has increased accordingly.)
Joan also reported that Sprint now offers a card that fits in the Wi-Fi slot that enables the computer to be online through the cell phone technology. It costs between $40-$80 a month and is available anywhere that a Sprint cellphone operates. It is very fast.
Call the new Sprint Store in Key West (296-2922) for more information. Perhaps we could get a group rate! You can try it free for 14 days.
Jim warned us to watch for a message that pretends to be from the FBI. If you download the attachment, your computer will be infected with a serious virus.
He also thanked once more all those who help with the VOCC and make it such a fine organization here at VO.
Be sure to join us next Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. This is the time to share your questions, concerns, and knowledge with other members. All are welcome, at any level of expertise.
Respectfully submitted,
Joan Brill, Secretary