(A) NOMINATED CANDIDATES ==================== LIST OF NOMINATED CANDIDATES / LISTE DES CANDIDATS APPROUVES ------------------------------------------------------------ Candidate Candidate Nominator Nominator Date of Nomination Name UserID Name UserID Acceptance --------- ------------- --------- ------------- ------------------ Nom du Code d'usager Proposeur Code d'usager Date candidat du candidat du proposeur d'approbation de la candidature _____________________________________________________________________________ Julie Chahal ab161 Linda Redekop ah740 1994-01-13 Brett Delmage aa693 Peter Martin ac959 1994-01-11 Rosaleen Dickson ac174 Jules Lafrance ab388 1994-01-08 Robert Gervais ah948 Bill Jackson aa354 1994-01-12 James Gilbert al012 Duncan Bailey ah959 1994-01-11 Chris Hawley ah654 David Libert ah170 1994-01-14 Marc Labelle ac078 Charles Trahan aj279 1994-01-14 Johnny Mo am708 Marilyn Matte ag868 1994-01-14 Jim Morris ad565 Rosaleen Dickson ac174 1994-01-11 Tony Smyth aa196 John P. Ferguson aa110 1994-01-14 Richard Taylor aa333 Brett Delmage aa693 1994-01-09 (B) INFORMATION ON CANDIDATES ========================= Introduction: Information provided by each candidate follows. (B1) Julie Chahal... =============== Biography --------- BIOGRAPHY FREENET ACTIVITIES Member of the Public Access and Community Relations Committee. Staffed Freenet booths at various computer shows. Break-out session moderator at last August's conference. Assisted in attracting candidates to the On-line All Candidates' meeting. PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES Information management has been a central theme in my hobbies as well as my career. I recently started a consulting company counselling small businesses in the use of information and technology as well as good management practices. Before that, I spent 8 years as an executive in the Federal Public Service responsible for informatics planning at the Department of Communications and for operational controls at Revenue Canada. I have also worked as a planner, project manager, policy analyst, and internal auditor. COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES Trustee, Nepean Public Library Board President, Merivale Gardens Community Association Volunteer instructor, Taoist Tai Chi Society of Ottawa Member, Coalition for Public Information WHAT I HOPE TO CONTRIBUTE Awareness of government databases and how to work with bureaucracies to get access to their information. Viewpoint of the mildly technical who are much more interested in how to communicate with others and get at useful information than in the mechanics. Public library philosophy A professional approach to strategic and operational plans to promote wider involvement in the Freenet. Business and management mentality. Why I care about FreeNet ------------------------ WHY I CARE ABOUT FREENET Isn't it amazing? One year ago, very few in the community at large had even heard about Freenet and vast numbers thought a bulletin board had to be made out of cork. Now it's become a household word and many of us have come to see it as one of life's necessities. Many thanks to those who came up with the idea and made it happen! Ready access to information is essential to democracy and social opportunity. Historically this access has been provided by public libraries and government information programs. Freenet has the capability of advancing democratic forces by an order of magnitude. It makes some of the advantages of belonging to a large organization available to individuals and small businesses. Is Freenet too good to be true? We've had an incredible first year, but we can't take continued success for granted. The big dangers are funding, trying to do too much too fast, alienating or burning out volunteers, individual groups working at cross purposes, and accusations of unfairly competing with legitimate business interests. I want to do my part to make sure Freenet makes a smooth transition to a mature and permanent organization. Priorities ---------- PRIORITIES I want to see Freenet fully developed as an essential public information utility This implies the following priorities: - reaching a large proportion of the community; eg., 100,000 by this time next year. My hunch is that we've already registered half the home computer owners in the area. I know dozens of people for whom Freenet was the one additional motivation they needed to take the plunge and buy their first computer. To get into really significant volumes, we'll need to concentrate on public access terminals, mini-courses to guide people through their first session, and hordes of volunteers to do some hand holding for the computer shy. Of course, we have to have the lines to accommodate all these people. - expanding and organizing content, especially of reference-type materials. Governments need to be persuaded to think of Freenet in relation to their databases in a context similar to depository libraries for printed materials. - convincing governments and other public organizations to use Freenet as one of their standard communication tools to reach the public. I think this will save them a lot of money which I hope will be reflected in their donations. Organizationally, my priorities are: - open and timely sharing of information and issues, including regular status reports, from the Board and Committees - comprehensive strategic and short term action plans which will serve us to better communicate with members and sponsors, coordinate efforts, and keep us generally on track with a sense of where we're going and how we intend to get there. - reviewing how we channel and support the efforts of volunteers. We seem to be missing many opportunities where we don't quite know what to do with the many offers to help in various ways. Part of Freenet's magic has been that anyone who wanted something done was asked to roll up their sleeves, and we have, but it's getting more complicated all the time. - handling more of the Board's detailed business items through broad policies and clear delegation of authority to others. (B2) Brett Delmage... ================ Who is Brett Delmage? What does he look like? --------------------------------------------- Brett Delmage Candidate for the National Capital FreeNet Board /^^^^^^^\ | 0 = 0 | <----- eyes: for reading email from NCF members @ \ ^ / @ <----- ears: for listening to you, the NCF member | \___/ | <----- smile: big, enthusiastic and positive \_______/ | | W <----- virtual handshake: for you! w__|/ Thank you for stopping by. B <----- batteries INCLUDED (lots of energy!) | / \ __/ \__ (not exactly to scale) Dear NCF member, Thank you for taking time to drop in and "meet" me. I believe that my skills and experience, detailed below, will enable me to serve you effectively, if elected to the NCF board. Organizational -------------- President, Citizens for Safe Cycling (Ottawa-Carleton) Inc. (Citizens for Safe Cycling promotes cycling as a viable mode of transportation in Ottawa-Carleton) CfSC was one of the first information-providers on the FreeNet ("go cfsc"). Fellow board candidate Richard Taylor and I have worked together to maintain the information base. Active member of several citizens advisory committees to the Regional Government (RCAG, TEAP-CAG). Former corresponding secretary, INPUT, an organization of programmers, engineers and technologists interested in the social implications of technology. Former vice-president, Ottawa Amateur Radio Club, Inc. Co-founder, Ottawa Amateur Radio Club Packet (Digital) Radio Working Group Former president, Carleton University Amateur Radio Club Former volunteer producer, community cable tv programming, TK Cablevision, Prince Rupert, BC Technical --------- Although I believe that technical knowledge is of secondary importance to an effective NCF board member, my professional and personal knowledge and experience allow me to more fully understand and evaluate technical aspects of NCF hardware and software re ports, as brought to the board by staff and working committees. Senior Software Designer in a local (Kanata) manufacturing company - design, programming and testing of Unix communications software and realtime embedded systems. - system administrator of the company's Unix-based financial and accounting information system. I run two, networked computers in my basement. One is an DOS/MS-Windows system; the other is a Unix (SVR4) computer that is part of the local ocunix uucp network. I am a licensed radio amateur (ham) and operate station VE3JLG. Experience and skills that I have learned from the above that I would like to bring to the NCF board: -------------------------------------------- - how to work (individually, and organizationally) with other individuals and organizations to achieve common goals - responsible budgeting and financial control (CfSC's budget has grown from less than $5000 to more than $50,000 since I have joined the executive (now Board), and the organization has a healthy, but not excessive, surplus) - how to set short, medium and long-term goals - the hard, but essential work of attracting new volunteers and treating them with respect, so that they can continue to serve the organization in personally satisfying ways - the importance of operating effective committees and task- forces and the board-committee relationship - productive board-staff relations - how to attract and keep sponsors - a good understanding of local government and how it and NCF could work more together in the future - how to improvise and use limited resources effectively - how to laugh and keep a sense of humour. Things will go wrong. The show must go on. Board members should take their work seriously, but shouldn't take _themselves_ too seriously - the knowledge that I don't have all the answers and that the ones I have today might be the wrong ones for tomorrow. - the recognition that each and every member of the organization is important Please see my position statements as they are posted, elsewhere on the menu. Your questions are welcomed. Please send them to aa693 anytime. Brett Delmage Priorities for the National Capital FreeNet ------------------------------------------- The role of the NCF Board and its members ----------------------------------------- The following describes how I believe the NCF board should operate, and therefore how I would conduct myself as a board member, if elected. I am not suggesting by the posting of my beliefs that current board members have necessarily behaved in a different manner. I am saying that this is MY approach. If you agree, then please vote for me, or you can try to convince me otherwise. I'll always welcome your comments. The NCF Board's role is to guide the OVERALL operation of the National Capital FreeNet, not to debate a myriad of details. Properly-functioning committees are in a better position to do the detail work; this also facilitates member participation. The Board's job is to make decisions: assigning priorities for NCF's limited resources -- human (staff and volunteer), financial (what to spend money on next), equipment, etc. -- and assisting with the development of those global resources. These decision s should be made in the context of an overall plan, and as unforseen opportunities (eg. cheaper phone lines) and problems (alt.fan.karla-homolka) arise. Wherever possible, the board should identify, develop and approve policies to cover situations, before they have to be dealt with in an urgent manner. This allows members to properly participate in the discussion leading to a decision and ensures the iss ue will be responded to properly if it arises. Board members who want to get involved in much "detail work" should participate directly in committees, and not abuse their position as a board member within the committee. Board Priorities for 1994 ------------------------- The following are tasks that I believe the board must or should undertake during the next year in order to ensure the ongoing success and growth of NCF. I don't think I can speak beyond that; much depends on the outcome of the strategic plan and fundraising (and funraising!) that should be done this year. Ensure that legal and contractual requirements (Corporations Act, legitimate court orders, staff-related, etc.) are met. Develop a strategic plan and implement it: "Plan the work then work the plan." I haven't seen any discussion of a strategic plan for NCF in the Board minutes or the board discussion area: what are our strengths? weakness? opportunities? risks? where are we going? how? NCF has grown at phenomenal rate, and there have been many challenges to deal with on a day to day basis. Now, one year after a phenomenal startup, we can't afford to wait anymore to decide exactly where NCF is going, before we make a wrong turn down an exit ramp at high speed! Develop an overall fundraising strategy, based upon the strategic plan and with the assistance of the Ways and Means committee and a professional fund raiser. Start to implement it. Pursue charitable status, one way or another. Obtain VISA/Mastercard merchant registration so that members can donate online. Ensure that required NCF committees function effectively and are provided with human (volunteer) and financial resources to do the job properly. Keep in touch with the membership, to ensure that committees are representative of the membership. Seek support from the community at large for NCF and represent NCF to the community. Ensure that the reliability and performance of existing functions, such as basic access, email and local news, followed by net access (usenet, gopher, etc.) are maintained and given priority over the addition of new features. In new features, it is more i mportant to improve the useability including the French aspects of the current interface than to add new capabilities. The importance of committees and volunteers ------------------------------------------- In order to manage the overall affairs of NCF well, the Board must ensure that committees work well. We are fortunate that we already have a number of effective committees, run by dedicated and capable volunteers. This must continue. There is certainly room for the committees to grow, to meet the demands of the growing membership and interest in system improvements. The Board must ensure: - that committees are set up and effectively and fairly chaired and run - that committees are given direction on how their work fits within the overall plan, and why directed work is important - that committees are asked specifically to develop recommendations for issues that the board must make decisions on - that the work of the committees is well-publicised (before and after the fact) and open to participation by all interested members. I take "freedom of information" seriously ----------------------------------------- NCF members have a right to know what is going on and the right and responsibility to participate in the process leading to a decision that affects them. As an early adopter of the Municipal Freedom on Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA), I have filed numerous requests for information with the RMOC and City of Ottawa, and then shared the information with affected parties. My requests were issued after officials refused to provide me with that I believ ed should be public information. One of my requests led to transportation projects becoming more open to the public: project technical committee meeting minutes are now made readily available. But one shouldn't have to resort to the Freedom of Information law to get access to public information. There's no such act for NCF members to call upon anyway, so the process is going to have to be more open to start with. As a board member, I will work for your right to know and to participate, as much as I expect you to speak up and constructively participate, particularly in NCF's committees. Please see my comments on Richard Taylor's motion on Board openness in the Candidates' discussion area. FreeNet - Enhancing the lives of National Capital residents ------------------------------------------------------------ "Information is power." Of course you've heard that before. As a community activist involved in transportation issues at the municipal and provincial level, I have certainly come to appreciate this first hand (see my comments on Freedom of Information). As president of Citizens for Safe Cycling, I have ensured that important issues that affected cyclists (50% of area residents) have been brought to their attention here on FreeNet in a timely manner. That's made a real difference. Proposed municipal policies been changed because people read about the issue here on FreeNet and spoke up. Of course, the information here on FreeNet can serve the members in many other, powerful ways. My priorities for FreeNet ------------------------- I believe that NCF's greatest strength is as a Community resource: one-stop shopping for local information, and facilitating a dialogue (email and public boards) between residents, associations, politicians on common interests. There is no other service l ike the NCF, and there isn't likely to be. NCF has succeeded because of extensive volunteer participation, which is unlikely to occur elsewhere, particularly on a pay-for-use commercial system. As a board member, I will support policies that give priority to this direction. That includes obtaining equipment and implementing operating policies that enable more people to gain access (phone lines, modems, public access terminals, computer power and disk space to support more users), proper language support in both official lang uages; encouraging more information providers to supply more information; email and bulletin board services. Municipal elections are going to be held in November 1994, and I would like to further develop Richard Taylor's work on the federal election issues area, to bring municipal election issues and candidates to the more public scrutiny. If you want FTP enabled on FreeNet so that you can get free games for your computer or photos of barenaked ladies or planets, then don't vote for me! From what I know, I do not believe that NCF can provide that service within the existing financial, equipment and government-sponsorship constraints. Perhaps interested FreeNet members could investigate how a member owned-and-operated system that supports full internet access on a non-profit basis for its members (a computing "co-op") could be implemented. I don't believe that a role that the NCF can directly play at this time, however. I appreciate that there may be files out there in cyberspace that can help you improve the quality of life for lots of people in the region, or help your association with its research. I don't know how to provide access to these, but I am open to suggesti ons. Until a solution is found, I encourage you to use the services of a commercial service provider to obtain FTP access. It would be reasonable for your association to budget for some communications costs for the internet, just as it budgets for long di stance phone calls now. If you need to FTP a few files in order to help a number of people in the community, I will endeavour to get them for you using my own account on another computer on the internet. Its up to you ------------- If elected, I will be only one of 15 directors and only one of 15,000 members. Ultimately, it's up to you to make NCF work. I'll will try to facilitate that, by helping people get together to achieve their goals. I'll try to learn as much about the FreeNet's operation in all areas as I can, so I can make proper decisions. I'll listen to you, and especially recommendations coming from committees before making a decision. And I will try to maintain my positive, "can-do" attitude, and hope that it will be infectious. I hope you will participate, in whatever way you can, by making a donation, working on a committee, sharing information as an information provider, or contributing your knowledge or constructive criticism to a public discussion. Thank you for taking time to find out about my positions. If you have any questions, please feel free to email them to me. Brett Delmage, aa693 Candidate for election to the NCF Board brett@ve3pak.ocunix.on.ca voice: (613) 722-4454 fax: 729-2207 High speed modems ----------------- The use of high speed modems by NCF ----------------------------------- I believe that high speed (eg. 14400 bps or faster) modems are an important part of NCF's future, just as higher-bandwidth channels are fuelling the growth of all telecommunications. As a board member, I would support and encourage the addition of high speed modems to the equipment pool to facilitate greater access to a growing amount of local community information, providing that a number of technical requirements are met. The total cost of a high speed modem installation would have to be comparable to that of a low speed (2400 bps) modem installaton, because I support increased access for a greater number of users over higher speed access for a fewer number of users. Before high speed modems are added, I would want to see a policy implemented that ensures their most efficient use, until their numbers are comparable to those of low speed modems. The argument has been made that most people can't read faster than 2400 bps. This may be true, but it ignores the fact that a user must repeatedly watch the same NCF menus and prompts redisplay over and over and over... at relatively low speed. (There are technical solutions to the retransmission of menus, etc. but those are relatively complicated and probably not very practical) A more pressing need than the fast redisplay of menus is the ability to transmit large amounts of material quickly to the user. At present, information put on FreeNet is somewhat (artificially) limited by the length of time it takes a user to get it, and the time it takes the information provider to upload it. I hope that in the future we might see such information as, for example, the biweekly agenda reports for standing committees of municipal councils on FreeNet. Then, members of community associations and residents could find out about proposed municipal policies that are going to affect them before a decision is made. High speed modems would enable users to download this volume of information in a practical manner, and to read it offline. Of course, improved indexing and access methods, as well as high speed modems, are also required to service this larger amount of data. Higher speed modems would facilitate the uploading of more substantive information by information providers and the downloading of it by users. As a amateur (ham) radio operator who has been involved in the development and operation of local packet radio (wireless digital) communications systems in the past, I am following the proposal to "homebrew" a rack of high speed modems for NCF with interest. My experience has shown that "amateurs" can do a job at least as well as "professionals" when they set their mind to it, and at a lower cost (excluding volunteer labour of course). Local hobbyists have helped put amateur (ham) communications satellites into orbit, at a cost millions cheaper than a similar commercial venture would cost. Surely, if "amateurs" can successfully put dozens of satellites in orbit, they can also put together a rack of high speed modems that meet the following requirements: 1. Reliability: Phone lines are expensive; staff and volunteer time to debug/replace faulty modems is limited. NCF cannot afford downtime or the damage to its reputation as a reliable service provider. 2. Compatibility with other modems: (Read comp.dcom.modems and you can will see what headaches modems can cause.) NCF cannot afford to invest money in modems and associated hardware that cause us problems. 3. An acceptable additional load on the computer: Is the resultant decrease in response time to users acceptable? If not, can NCF afford the corresponding cost to increase the computer power: is this the best use of money? 4. The requirements of the computer room where the FreeNet computer resides: This one almost goes without saying... or does it? What exactly are the requirements? Are the requirements arbitrary or inconsistently applied? The NCF Board approved the purchase of high speed modems at its meeting of 1993 April 29. Yet, I've heard nothing but excuses why it can't be done. Was the initial decision based on poor or no reasearch? Or was it just a decision that was never actually intended to be implemented? Let's get on with it! Finally, for the record: We have two Zyxel 16,800 bps modems at home. I use them and I love them! Brett Delmage, aa693 Candidate for election to the NCF Board brett@ve3pak.ocunix.on.ca voice: (613) 722-4454 fax: 729-2207 (B3) Rosaleen Dickson... =================== Why am I a candidate? --------------------- HERE ARE SOME ANSWERS TO ONE BIG QUESTION: Why would anyone want to be a Director of NCF? ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Here are the reasons why _I_ decided to be a candidate for one of the vacant seats on the Board of Directors of National Capital FreeNet. If I become a director, * I intend to represent all the members, taking any member's concern that is brought to my attention to the board for open discussion. * My emphasis is on the social values connected with NCF, which I find to be considerable. Volunteers built NCF, and Volunteers are to be greatly respected. * NCF is an extremely important development, far more important than any of us can even imagine - not to be taken lightly. NCF has made this a better community for many people. Its potential is tremendous. * Innovation must be encouraged. Experimentation must continue unhindered. NCF must not stagnate; nothing is written in stone. In cyberspace there is no stone. * Although English is the language of Internet everywhere, in Finland, France, the U.S., Germany, even in Japan, THIS IS CANADA. Both our official languages should be evident on NCF. I support those who are working to achieve this. It's not just a special project for francophones; we all have an interest in making NCF bilingual. * Freenet must not be jeopardized by an overload. It's more important to maintain the basics, free for all. The basics I consider eminently valuable include - local and world-wide communication. - a broad spectrum of information. - room to move for good people with bright ideas. * Freenet should work hand-in-hand with the spin-off companies such as service providers and teaching facilities. There is an itnerdependence to be maintained. Libraries and schools must be a priority for NCF growth. * A few more things I will work towards, if elected: - An agressive fund-raising program. - Open board discussions on every topic. - Active recruiting to strengthen the committees. - Motivation for technical innovation. * NCF must take the lead to organize a Canada-wide association of freenets. |> That's all that comes to my mind at present, but if anyone has any |> questions they would like to ask me about my ideas for freenet, or any |> suggestions for me to carry to the Board, should I be elected to sit on it, |> please post me a note. Who am I? Well, I'm an active freenetter, I run three SIGs: * Seniors - in Community Associations. * The Hill Times - in Newsstand. * Ottawa X Press - also in Newsstand. I'm a journalist - have been all my adult life. I'm a member of the Parliamentary Press Gallery. Born in Halifax, 1921. Graduated University, 1941. Married 1942. (My husband died 1992) Six children, 14 grandchildren. They live in Shawville, Ottawa, Nepean, Beechgrove, Renfrew and Perth. As publisher and editor of a weekly newsper (THE EQUITY, Shawville, Quebec) for 30 years, and as a town councillor I have been responsibly involved in community affairs of every possible description for a long, long time. I did list a small number of them here but it became such a long entry that nobody should be expected to read through it all so I deleted it. Anyone who has ever lived in Pontiac County, or knows someone who does, will be aware of my comitment to, and capacity for, community development.) I've had quite a lot of experience in organizing radio and television, from the ground up, and also in production and on-air. I am currently taking graduate courses at Carleton in mass communication. Also I write for The Hill Times, and occasionally for Ottawa X Press. Which is more than enough about me. Let's make NCF as good as it can be. We are leaders in the field. People expect us to be models. So be it. Virtually yours, Rosaleen. (B4) Robert Gervais... ================= Biography --------- Candidate for Director-NCF Robert Gervais I have been around the telematics area just long enough to remember when "gopher" had at least two other meanings than it does to-day. It seems to me that, in order to be able to use technology successfully, we must understand what it represents and how to navigate with it. My experience as an executive in both the private and public sectors has enabled me to develop a broad understanding of the impact which information can have on our lives - not simply the information itself but the way in which we manage it our- selves. Freenet presents a doorway which leads to professional develop- ment as well as personal enrichment. I would be pleased to help ensure that the doorway is wide enough and that the door doesn't stick as we enter the 21st Century! Education: BA(Phil) Universit‚ de Montr‚al MBA Concordia Family Status: Married with four children Current employment: Vice-President, Operations, Government Telecommunications and Informatics Services, Public Works and Government Services Canada (B5) James Gilbert... ================ About James Gilbert ------------------- ABOUT JAMES GILBERT I have a B.A. in literature and philosophy from University of Toronto, and a Master's degree in philosophy from McGill. I am an employee of the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, but am currently on assignment at the Treasury Board. I have experience in informatics from the programmers side, and from the point of view of management side. Both of these perspectives have made me realize the potential as well as the challenges of new technology. I also have experience designing courses for and teaching computers to intellectually disabled adults. It is from this experience that I became interested in community based computing. It is my interest between the relationship between technology and local community activities which makes me excited about the FreeNet. Based on this combination of experience and enthusiasm, as well as on my postions, I would like to ask for your support. James Gilbert's Views --------------------- JAMES GILBERT'S VIEWS These are a few of my views on FreeNet issues. I am certain that as the campaign progresses many more subjects will be discussed. Please post in the campaign area if there are any subjects that you would like the candidates to address. I will be sure to post back. I am also aware that not all FreeNet users like to post, therefore feel free to E-Mail me with any questions, and I will respond to you directly. Community Based Computing - The best way for FreeNet to grow is to expand its connections into the community. I intend to devote a lot of time in fostering partnerships between National Capital FreeNet and other community organizations. What has already been done is fantastic, but the possibilities in front of us in this arena are staggering. The other side to community based computing is being responsive to the ideas of the membership. It is good to have a direction, but one cannot "plan" a FreeNet. The great thing about the FreeNet is that it is shaped both in content and structure by its participants. Fund Raising - The more money we have the better. I am firmly against any user fees, partly on an ideological basis but also on a more pragmatic basis: If users were asked to give $30.00 per year they might not want to give any more. What I propose is a more vibrant Fund raising campaign focussed on individual's and corporations. A few ideas on this campaign are: -investigate the possibility of electronic donations (who remembers how to use a stamp?) -continue the efforts to be able to issue tax receipts (this will really increase the contributions) -give aways (I for one would love a FreeNet T-shirt, or Coffee mug) Internet Access, Faster Modems, Log-in time, and other goodies Hopefully after a successful fund raising drive there will be revenue available to have a relevant debate over the merits of all these things. One thing is for certain: I would be against cutting back on the Internet access that we already have. These are some of my views, of course this list is not exhaustive, and as a member of the board of directors I would take most of my ideas from the membership. Creative Uses of FreeNet ------------------------ CREATIVE USES OF FREENET As a candidate for the Board of Directors I am in favour of finding new and creative uses for the NCF Freenet. I read with interest the annual report dealing with FreeNet's electronic All Candidates Meeting during the last Federal election. In this paper it calls for action to make the communication run both ways; from FreeNet user to candidate, and from candidate to Freenet user. I think that using the FreeNet to improve access to politicians is an excellent idea and not just during elections. While it is true that only a minority of politicians are comfortable with electronic forums, I would bet that a majority are interested in using this medium. Illustrating the importance of this is the discussion of the information highway in Chretien's speech from the throne. As politicians wait for this "highway" to be built, I would propose to make the NCF an on-ramp to this highway. To begin with, we could give all Ottawa politicians FreeNet accounts. We could then give them the option to have all the E-Mail they receive diverted to their office Fax machines. This would provide a short term solution to the problem of them being uncomfortable with an electronic forum. Another use of the NCF in the political arena, would be to pay more attention to the user voter area. FreeNet users could be regularly polled on certain issues and the results could be sent to politicians. This might not be representative of all of society, but I believe that FreeNet members form a unique cross section of our community. I would like to use this forum to discuss this and other creative and powerful uses for FreeNet. (B6) Chris Hawley... =============== About me -------- Dear fellow FreeNet members: I have been nominated as a candidate for a seat on the NCF's Board of Directors. My thanks to Dave Libert for expressing his respect for me in that manner. This letter is from me to all of you, my fellow members of the National Capital FreeNet. It's purpose is to help you identify with who I am -- what makes me think I am the best choice for your vote in the coming election. I will write other short letters that will note some of my feelings on issues that I feel are important for the Board and the NCF membership to address. This letter is just about why I think I'd make a good member of the Board. Given my complex and strong feelings on this part of me, this could be a long letter; I'll try not to ramble overmuch. As I read over some of the qualifications of my opponents in this election, I am very impressed. Some of them have lived very productive lives, achieved lofty goals, and been educated in many relevant areas along the way. I cannot help but be impressed. I tip my hat to these ladies and gentlemen, bravo! I myself have no university education. I've never been President or Chief Executive Officer of anything. I am not famous for spear-heading any large volunteer groups (yet), and what's more, I can't dance either. So why do I want to be on the NCF Board of Directors? It's an easy question to answer... I think that my being on the NCF Board would significantly benefit most if not all members of the NCF. I am known for coming up with innovative solutions to problems, and quick, logical thinking. I want to use that to benefit the NCF; to help it grow and become the true Electronic Community it should. I would love to have my name associated with the NCF system as a major influence for growth and development. What better feather to have in one's cap! I feel that I could make a Difference for the NCF and all it's membership for the better. It's a love thing, not as much an extension of my professional career, that makes me interested in the FreeNet idea and this system in particular. For better or worse, FreeNets have changed my life more than any other candidate on the list, from what I have seen so far. I suppose being involved with an idea for a few years, and having it totally and radically change your entire life, makes one either love or hate something intensely. I love it. It has been a roller-coaster ride of huge proportion. Internet and the FreeNets that it makes possible are part of me now, and I have profited greatly from this intimate association. I've made thousands of dollars through work that was found, arranged, and in one case almost completely negotiated over the Internet. I've changed the lives of thousands of men and women in Cleveland by designing, purchasing and installing a Local Area Network (LAN) for their non-profit education, to teach mostly unemployed or underemployed single mothers how to use current business software such as Lotus 1-2-3 and Word Perfect, to make them viable employees in the business community. This all happened through a contact and friend that I met through IRC and the Internet. I obtained my last job through the Internet, and a concurrent consulting engagement as well. I count many international friends that I have met through Free- Net's and the Internet... Some I have never met and will probably not ever meet physically, although I do not rule out the possibility! I have lived and am, to the extent I am capable of at the moment, living the Connected life. I use Internet as the most useful tool in my life. I am on FreeNet a lot, it is my connection to the world, my far away friends, my former employers and fellow employees, and my new local friends and acquaintances. Thanks to the National Capital FreeNet and the Cleveland Free-Net, I met my wife, Shannon, on the IRC chat program on the Cleveland Free-Net. Some will recall articles in the Ottawa Citizen and Maclean's magazine that featured us as an example of how the Internet, FreeNet, and general Connectivity are impacting the lives of many. Shannon and I are really just another couple who met and got married. Being married has really changed my life a lot, turned me inside out. It is the biggest impact that FreeNet has had on my life to date, the flagship in a virtual fleet of changes and improvements to my life that have occurred due to the Internet. I want the whole world to take part in this expansion of awareness; the communication of our culture, ideas, fears, needs, and friendship to others across the globe is something I openly embrace and support. My dream for the NCF includes access for all people, a way that each and every person who so desires, can be connected to each other and to the world beyond. Ottawa, fasten your seat belts! Education --------- EDUCATION ********* I have attended school through High School, with vocational training in Data Processing as a co-op during the last 2 years of High School. My education in computers has been almost completely self-taught, with the one notable exception above. I have learned wherever and whenever possible, and have so far come out of it with a fairly handy set of computer skills. Some people call me a "guru" of this or that subject, and I smile. It's a good ego boost, but I'm just learning like everyone else. My education in PEOPLE comes from my strange life. Both wonderful and terrible, it has taught me many things that I would consider a bit extreme if I had been asked beforehand. My parents moved 13 times before I graduated High School, all over the States -- from Ohio, to Michigan, to Colorado, to Utah, and finally back to Ohio. I've missed out on some of the old time friends stuff, but I've also gained a whole lot of insight into people in general. I think that helps me get along with new people more readily, and also helps me adapt quickly to new situations and challenges. I have experienced a few of lifes more unpleasant sides, such as watching my father die of cancer, and being homeless. I think these sorts of things force you to have a better perspective on Life, and not to take so much for granted. They allow me to bring to the NCF more maturity and understanding for those who "have not". I've also been married, and this means that instead of a social life, I'll have gobs of free time to devote to the NCF. (just joking, dear) :) My education in FREENETS started 3 or 4 years ago in Cleveland, the "home" of the FreeNet idea, and the Freeport software. There I had my first taste of an Electronic Community, and got hooked. I used to dial into Cleveland from Ashtabula, when I lived there, long-distance, hooked even then. It was there that I realized how many Usenet newsgroups there were, and also there that I first learned how to IRC. Later, at Case Western Reserve University, I got my first "full Internet" UNIX account, and began exploring and using that giant maelstrom of information. Since then, I have never stopped. I learned and grew with the Cleveland Free-Net project, and I think that this experience adds more to my usefulness as a Board member for the NCF. Chris (B7) Marc Labelle... =============== Bref curriculum --------------- Bref curriculum --------------- 1994-01-21 Marc Labelle (ac078) Activités au sein du Libertel ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ * Secrétariat du Comité francophone. * Francisation des menus. * Production d'information. Activités professionnelles ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ * Correction-révision et traduction à la pige. (Membre de l'Association canadienne des pigistes de l'édition.) Antécédents professionnels ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ * Correction-révision dans les secteurs public et privé. * Recherche pour 2 maisons de couverture des médias. * Coordination d'un groupe communautaire sur le logement à Hull. Domaines d'intérêt ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ * Spiritualité, astrologie. * Histoire, civilisations anciennes. * Art. * Programmation informatique -- c'est tout récent. :-) Short Curriculum Vitae ---------------------- Short Curriculum Vitae ---------------------- 1994-01-22 Marc Labelle (ac078) Activities in the FreeNet Organization ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ * Secretary responsabilities of the Francophone Committee. * Making the menus French. * Providing information. Occupation ~~~~~~~~~~ * Freelance editing and translation. (Member of the Freelance Editors' Association of Canada [FEAC].) Work Experience ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ * Editing in the public and private sectors. * Media monitoring for 2 companies. * Coordination of a community group on housing in Hull. Spheres of Interest ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ * Spirituality, astrology. * History, ancient civilizations. * The arts. * Computer programming -- it's very recent. :-) Grandes orientations -------------------- Grandes orientations -------------------- 1994-01-23 Le réseau Libertel est une voie par laquelle une information intéressante circule le plus librement possible dans tous les sens, entre des particuliers et des groupes enthousiastes. Il reflète donc toute la gamme des connaissances et des activités humaines. Voilà pourquoi je soutiens résolument un accès sans imposition de frais. La volonté de connaître et de communiquer transcende les contingences financières. D'une part, le coût d'un réseau informatique est relativement peu élevé -- eu égard le grand nombre d'usagers reliés ensemble. D'autre part, le progrès technologique fait en sorte que le coût du matériel va sans cesse diminuant. (On dit qu'un utilisateur peut se procurer un terminal et un modem usagers pour quelques dizaines de dollars seulement. Si c'est encore trop cher, il y a les postes d'accès libre que le Libertel installe progressivement dans les endroits publics de la région.) Par ailleurs, dans notre société en mutation, ce projet accessible au plus grand nombre et aux plus avertis agit, par sa nature même, comme un véritable fer de lance dans le débat social en profondeur qui s'amorce sur la redistribution des tâches et des richesses. Mieux encore, le phénomène des réseaux informatiques communautaires qui fleurissent dans le monde est l'annonce d'une nouvelle humanité qui s'affranchit des servitudes idéologiques. Place à l'avenir, ici et maintenant. L'auto-information est la nouvelle puissance qui permet d'être au pouvoir de soi-même. La société d'information interactive se manifeste par le jeu délicieux des échanges entre les polarités individuelle et collective. La force et la flexibilité de l'informatique permet d'attirer les individus les plus différents et de recruter les fournisseurs d'information les plus variés possible. Nous n'en sommes qu'au début d'une aventure extraordinaire. Plus spécifiquement, j'encourage la pleine participation de la communauté francophone à laquelle j'appartiens. Je compte donc, en collaboration avec les autres membres du Comité francophone, poursuivre l'oeuvre de francisation du réseau et aider à faire des principales organisations francophones de la région des producteurs d'information du Libertel. Plus largement, je veille à favoriser également la participation de toutes les autres communautés, en plus de celle des communautés francophone et anglophone. J'appuie donc fermement les programmeurs ou réalisateurs qui prônent la réécriture du logiciel d'exploitation du réseau pour faire de celui-ci une place d'accueil multilingue. Amicalement. Marc Labelle (ac078) Position Paper -------------- Position Paper -------------- 1994-01-22 The FreeNet is the highway by which worthwhile information is conveyed as freely as possible from all directions by and for enthusiastic persons and groups. Thus all areas of human knowledge and activity are explored. This is why I resolutely support access without user fees. The will to learn and communicate transcends financial contingencies. On the one hand, the cost of a community computer network is relatively low -- when one considers the great number of users connected together. On the other hand, technological progress constantly brings down the price of hardware. (We are being told that users can get second-hand terminals and modems for about $65. If one cannot afford that, one can use free access terminals being installed progressively by FreeNet in the public areas of our region.) From a broader perspective, in a changing society, this project which is accessible to most people and to the well-informed represents by the fact of its mere existence a spearhead in the emerging social issue of work and wealth redistribution. Furthermore, the blossoming of community computer networks across the world is the sign of of a new mankind shrugging off the ideological servitudes. The future is already here. Self-information is the new source of self-development. The interactive information society manifests itself by playful exchanges between the individual and collective polarities. The strength and flexibility of computing attracts individuals and information providers recruits of all kinds. It's only the beginning of an extraordinary adventure. More specifically, I encourage the full participation of the Francophone community of which I am a member. Therefore I intend to carry on, in collaboration with the other members of the Francophone Committee, the undertaking of making the network available to the French users and bringing the French information providers of our region on the FreeNet system. More widely, I see to it that my stances favour also the participation of all the communities, besides the English or the French communities. I firmly back up programmers or developpers who advocate rewriting the system operating software to make FreeNet a multilingual home. Kind regards, Marc Labelle (ac078) Prises de position et priorités ------------------------------- Prises de position et priorités ------------------------------- 1994-01-23, ac078 * Assurer un accès facile et fiable au réseau en respectant la norme d'un modem par 100 usagers (adoptée lors de la réunion du 21 août 1993 par le Conseil d'administration [point 5 du procès-verbal]). Les usagers risquent de se décourager et de ne plus revenir lorsqu'il faut 20, 40 et même plus de 60 minutes pour établir la communication en vue d'une session qui dure une heure. Régler ce problème est donc une priorité fondamentale. * Par ailleurs, on pourrait faire l'acquisition de quelques modems à grande vitesse à titre expérimental pour ne pas se laisser dépasser par le progrès. Ils sont efficaces pour la saisie de fichiers ou le déroulement de menus par exemple. Mais avant de les adopter définitivement, il faut considérer que d'autres solutions techniques puissent surgir, tel un logiciel amélioré ou un serveur plus efficace. * Que le logiciel soit réécrit pour que le jeu de caractères Latin I devienne implicite et que le code source permette l'affichage des messages de réponse de l'ordinateur en français ou d'autres langues. Il faut être aux aguets et prévoir dans le monde informatique la création éventuelle d'un jeu de caractères universel comprenant tous les jeux de caractères ISO (8859-1, 8859-2, etc.). Il s'agit d'une priorité essentielle. * Poursuivre l'installation de postes d'accès public dans les bibliothèques de la région. Mettre l'accent sur le branchement des écoles et des foyers d'accueil pour personnes âgées. * Former les nouveaux usagers et les fournisseurs d'information de 7 à 77 ans et plus. * Conserver le courrier électronique et les babillards comme fonctions principales du système. * Continuer d'ignorer pour l'instant le Protocole de transfert de fichier (File Transfer Protocol [FTP]), service de transfert de fichiers binaires (programmes), puisqu'il ne répond pas à un intérêt communautaire évident. Il prendrait aussi trop d'espace disque et constituerait un danger sérieux en matière de virus. * Continuer de limiter l'abonnement au réseau Internet en fonction des aspects qui sont d'intérêt communautaire. Standpoints and Priorities -------------------------- Standpoints and Priorities -------------------------- 1994-01-22, ac078 * An easy and reliable access to the system should be ensured by meeting the ratio of 1 modem for every 100 users (this standard was set by the Board of Directors at the meeting held on August 21, 1993 [item 5 in the minutes of the meeting]). Users may easily get discouraged and may not want to try again when they realize it takes 20, 40 and sometimes more than 60 minutes to login for a one-hour period. Solving this problem is a basic necessity. * Also, a certain number of high-speed modems should be acquired on an experimental basis so FreeNet is not left behind by progress. They are efficient for data capture or menu scrolling for example. But before the high-speed modems solution is adopted for good, it should be considered that other technical solutions may arise, such as an improved software or a more efficient server. * The software should be rewriten to make Latin I the default character set and to have the source code display computer system messages in French and other languages. We should be on the lookout for a universal character set including all the ISO character sets (8859-1, 8859-2, etc.). This is an essential priority. * Carrying on the installation of public access terminals in the region's libraries. Connecting schools and senior homes should be emphasized. * Training of new users and information providers of all age groups. * Maintaining electronic mail and bulletin boards as the main services of the system. * Excluding for now the File Transfer Protocol (FTP) service (for binary files [programs]), since its community usefulness has not been demonstrated. Also, it would use up too much disk space and would constitute a serious virous threat. * Continuing to limit the Internet link to its community aspects. Le mercantilisme ---------------- Le mercantilisme ---------------- 1994-01-31 Je m'oppose à la publicité commerciale sur le Libertel parce que la nature même de notre réseau communautaire s'en trouverait menacée. Une section d'annonces commerciales payées par des organisations lucratives nous dépossèderait de notre statut de société à but non lucratif. Deux incidents récents nous rappellent que le danger mercantil nous guette. D'abord ce publipostage par la compagnie Resudox dont 4 propriétaires sont membres du Libertel. Un d'entre eux, Jim Morris -- qui est candidat dans cette élection --, s'est excusé auprès du Conseil d'administration. Cependant, l'auteur de ce publipostage, n'étant pas d'accord avec son collègue, a tenté l'opération à une 2e reprise. Je veux bien croire en la bonne foi du candidat Morris. J'attends donc, comme sans doute de nombreux membres du réseau, qu'il nous affirme publiquement, avant le début du scrutin, que tout est bien rentré dans l'ordre et que ce geste maladroit ne sera pas répété. Ensuite, un protagoniste de la publicité commerciale, Eric Snyder, affiche des services avec des prix dans son fichier de signature. Je trouve cela abusif. Il ne s'agit plus d'un fichier qui correspond à une carte de visite, déclinant simplement un titre professionnel ou le nom d'une compagnie, il s'agit carrément d'une annonce publicitaire. Cela dénature le Libertel en lui donnant un visage commercial. Le Libertel doit résister au mirage de la publicité engendrant des revenus tirés des sociétés à but lucratif ; il ne doit pas se retrouver plus tard dépossédé de sa dignité de réseau communautaire, instrument privilégié des individus et des groupes communautaires. Concernant le conflit d'intérêt. -- Tout membre du Conseil d'administration qui se rend compte d'un conflit d'intérêt réel ou possible devrait en aviser l'ensemble du conseil qui doit déterminer si le membre en question est habilité à siéger ou à se prononcer sur un sujet particulier. Le candidat Marc Labelle (ac078) Commercialism ------------- Commercialism ------------- 1994-01-31 I am opposed to commercial advertising on the FreeNet since the concept of our community network would be in jeopardy. An advertisement section for profit-making organizations would strip our status as a non-profit organization. Two recent incidents are a reminder that commercialism is a real menace. First, a batch mail was made by the Resudox company, of which 4 owners are members of FreeNet. One of them, Jim Morris, who is also a candidate in this election, offered excuses to the Board of Directors. Yet, disagreeing with that apology, the person responsible for initiating that batch mailing repeated the operation in an attempt to complete it. I am willing to believe that candidate Jim Morris is in good faith. I thus expect, as I am sure many others members do, that Jim Morris will publicly declare before the vote takes place that order has been restored in his company and that this clumsy gesture will not happen again. Then, a protagonist of commercial advertising, Eric Snyder, displays services with prices in his signature file. I find this excessive. This file does not correspond to a business card, simply stating a professionnal title or a company name, it is a downwright commercial advertisement. This alters the Freenet by giving it a venal façade. The FreeNet must not fall a prey to advertisement producing revenu from profit-making organizations. It must not loose its dignity as a community network, the privileged instrument of individuals and community groups. Concerning conflict of interest: Directors of the Board that realize that they are in a situation of real or suspected conflict of interest should inform the other Directors who will determine if the member is capacitated to continue being a part of the Board or to be involved in a decision on a particuliar item. Marc Labelle (ac078), candidate Sur les 4 motions administratives --------------------------------- Sur les 4 motions administratives --------------------------------- 1994-01-31, ac078 * 1re motion sur la confirmation de l'Accord entre le membre et le LCN. -- Je vote pour cet accord raisonnable. * 2e motion sur la confirmation d'une rémunération raisonnable (pour Kyla Huckerby et Ian Allen). -- Je vote sans hésitation pour cette motion. * 3e motion sur la vérification des comptes par la firme Peat Marwick Thorne. -- Je vote pour cette motion. * 4e motion pour que les membres de la direction du Libertel soient également des usagers inscrits. -- Dans notre genre d'organisation, il est normal de s'attendre à ce tel soit le cas, de sorte que les membres de la direction soient familiers avec le fonctionnement du système ; je vote pour cette motion. On the 4 Administration Motions ------------------------------- The 4 Administration Motions ---------------------------- 1994-01-31, ac078 * 1st Motion on Confirmation of the User Agreement: I vote for this sound agreement. * 2nd Motion on Confirmation of Remunerations (for Kyla Huckerby and Ian Allen): I vote for this motion without hesitation. * 3rd Motion on the Appointment of Peat Marwick Thorne as Auditors. -- I vote for this motion. * 4th Motion to Make It Mandatory that All Officers, Directors, and Executive Committee Members Be Members of the National Capital FreeNet: In our type of organization it is natural to expect that these members be familiar with the operation of the system. Sur les 17 motions des membres ------------------------------ Sur les 17 motions des membres ------------------------------ 1994-01-31, ac078 * 1re motion sur l'établissement des priorités par le Conseil d'administration et le personnel. -- Je vote contre cette motion parce que sa formulation m'apparaît trop vague. En fait, je fais confiance au conseil et au personnel pour déterminer judicieusement leurs priorités. * 2e motion sur l'obtention du service de transfert de fichiers Gopher binaires (fichiers de programmes). -- Je vote contre cette motion parce que ce service luxueux ne sert pas à améliorer la capacité de communiquer entre les membres de la communauté. * 3e motion sur la téléconversation internationale. -- Quoiqu'il soit intéressant en soi, je vote contre ce service dans un proche avenir, la priorité devant être accordée à la disponibilité du plus grand nombre de lignes possibles pour les activités régulières du réseau. * 4e motion sur le service de téléconversation 24 heures sur 24. -- Je vote contre cette motion pour la même raison. * 5e motion sur un système de codes d'identité plus personnalisés. -- Je vote contre ce système parce qu'il serait compliqué à administrer et que de toute façon le nom de l'usager est inscrit dans l'en-tête du message ou de l'article. * 6e motion sur le logo optionnel pour les usagers inscrits. -- Je vote contre cette motion (voir la suivante). * 7e motion en faveur d'un logo de petite dimension. -- J'ai présenté cette motion dans le but exprès de contredire la précédente. Le logo est un symbole d'identification et devrait apparaître à tous les usagers -- inscrits ou visiteurs. Cependant, il ne doit pas être encombrant. * 8e motion pour rendre obligatoire l'achat des nouveaux modems à haute vitesse. -- Je vote contre parce que les modems actuels (à 2400 bauds) sont 3 fois moins coûteux. La priorité doit être accordée pour l'instant à l'accroissement du nombre de lignes et non au faible avantage d'une vitesse accrue de régénération des menus. * 9e motion sur le contrôle du babillard des annonces du LCN. -- Je vote pour cette motion afin d'éviter l'inscription de messages qui n'y ont pas leur place. * 10e motion sur les discussions du Conseil d'administration ou des comités du Libertel qu'on veut rendre publiques par le biais de réunions ou sous forme électronique. -- Puisque c'est déjà le cas, et ce de façon satisfaisante, je ne vois pas l'utilité de voter pour cette motion. * 11e motion sur l'opportunité de créer un 2e Conseil d'administration composé de jeunes de moins de 18 ans. -- Je vote contre un 2e conseil dont les pouvoirs pourraient contrecarrer ou retarder l'action du Conseil d'administration légitime. * 12e motion sur la possibilité d'offrir un service Internet complet aux sociétés à but lucratif afin de générer des revenus. -- Je vote contre cette motion parce que cela contredit la mission du Libertel. Seuls les aspects communautaires de cet interréseau doivent nous intéresser. En plus d'avoir pour effet d'augmenter notre tarif ONet particulier, cela risquerait à long terme d'augmenter le tarif général pour l'ensemble des réseaux communautaires, donc de nuire à leur éclosion. * 13e motion sur l'allocation de codes d'identité collectifs aux enseignants. -- Je me prononce contre cette motion parce que les élèves, comme les enseignants, doivent obtenir chacun leur propre code. (L'Accord actuel entre le membre et le LCN prévoit que les personnes âgées de moins de 18 ans doivent obtenir le soutien d'un parent ou d'un tuteur.) * 14e motion sur les remerciements destinés au Conseil d'administration actuel. -- Il va de soi que je vote chaleureusement pour cette motion. * 15e motion sur la création d'un répertoire Unix par membre. -- Je vote contre ce répertoire parce qu'il n'est pas utile et gaspille de l'espace disque. * 16e motion sur l'écriture de la date en format international. J'ai appuyé cette motion afin d'uniformiser l'écriture des dates et pour en faciliter la lecture dans toutes les langues. * 17e motion pour favoriser la rédaction d'un Message d'accueil bref mais précis. -- J'ai présenté cette motion pour donner l'occasion à l'usager de lire les messages urgents ou prioritaires sans lui donner l'envie d'appuyer impatiemment sur "q" (pour quitter). Dans mon esprit, cette motion est reliée aux 7e et 9e motions. On the 17 Motions of the Members -------------------------------- On the 17 Motions by the Members -------------------------------- 1994-01-31, ac078 * 1st Motion on the Priorities of the Board of Directors and Staff: I vote against this motion because its formulation is too vague. In fact, I am confident that the Board and the Staff can make the best choices. * 2nd Motion on Binary File Gopher Fransfers (Program Files): I vote against this motion because this luxury service does not serve the purpose of making communication between members more efficient. * 3rd Motion on the International Chat Service: Although interesting, I vote against this service for the near future, because the priority should be the increase of available lines for normal activities on the NCF. * 4th Motion on the 24-Hour Chat Service: I vote against this motion for the same reason. * 5th Motion on a Personal Userid System: I vote against this system because it would be too complicated to manage ; anyway, the name of the user is indicated in the header of the message or the article. * 6th Motion on the Optional Logo for the Registered Users: I vote against this motion (see the next one). * 7th Motion on a Small Size Logo: I put forward this motion to oppose the preceeding one. The logo is an identification symbol and should appear to all users -- whether they are registered users or visitors. Yet, it should not be bulky. * 8th Motion to Make the Purchase of High-Speed Modems Mandatory: I vote against this motion because the present modems (2400 bauds) are 3 times less costly. The increase of the number of lines should be prioritized over the small advantage of the increased menu refresh rate. * 9th Motion on the Moderation of the NCF Announcements Newsgroup: I vote for this motion to eliminate messages which are inapropriate. * 10th Motion on the Discussions of the Board of Directors and Subcommittees to be Made Public by Way of Public Meetings and/or Electronic Form: Since this is already the case I do not see the point of voting for this motion. * 11th Motion on the Usefulness of a 2nd Board of Directors Made Up of Young People under 18 Years Old: I vote against a 2nd Board whose powers could hamper or delay action by the legitimate Board. * 12th Motion on Offering a Complete Internet Service to Profit- Making Organizations to Generate Revenu: I vote against this motion because it does not respect FreeNet's mission. We should focus on the community aspects of Internet. Other than producing a specific increase in the ONet fee, it would in the long run increase the general fee for all community networks, thus harming their birth. * 13th Motion on Giving out Collective Userids to Teachers: I vote against this motion because pupils, like teachers, should get their own account. (The present User Agreement asks that persons under 18 get the signature of a parent or guardian.) * 14th Motion on Thanks to the Present Board: I vote warmly for this motion. * 15th Motion on the Creation of a Unix Directory for Each Member: I vote against this directory because it is not useful and uses up disk space. * 16th Motion on the International Date Format: I have seconded this motion so the date format on the NCF would be consistent and easy to read in any language. * 17th Motion for a Short and Precise Message of the Day: I have put forward this motion so urgent and priority messages be read without tempting the user to impatiently push on the "q" (quit) key. In my mind, it is related to the 7th and 9th motions. (B8) Johnny Mo... ============ Vote for me for MO'FREENET -------------------------- Vote for me for MO'FREENET WHY I AM A GOOD CANDIDATE (A down to earth message). Hi Folks, There are many reasons and many issues I would like to cover, however it would be too unrealistic to try to do it here. I will get this out in the open right now; if you would like my opinion on any issue, please feel free to send me mail and ask me. I will be happy to give you my view. Please read the next few paragraphs to understand some things about me. First of all, I have been with the BBS world almost all my life. I first started to use a modem way back in 1978 and I thought 300 baud was fast! (Gosh, the memories). I started my own BBS in 1980 and to this day, I still have a FREE BBS running. I have always believed that the Modem community depends a lot on the quality of the users. I love the idea that the computer modem world is "non judgemental at first sight" meaning, no matter what sex, race, colour, or religion you are the other users (peers) still treat you as an equal and rely solely on your presentation and use of your knowledge. I have seen people ranging from having NO computer experience to full blown Computer gurus talking to each other and having a complete understanding and willingness to help each other in whatever way they can. I am saying that the people on these systems are good people and you can count on someone out there who will have an answer for you or will try to find one. It is a way that we can be a "family" through electronic means and yet have our own "space" without privacy being invaded. Of course, I have a few friends who are married because of my BBS (they met through one of my GTs [Get-Togethers]). It's really the people who make this technology LIVE. I want to keep this going. I have seen so many questions and issues raised that my ultimate stand in them all is, let's talk about it. Let's have the "family" talk and find a consensus throughout by a rational and logical discussion. There are some issues I believe too premature to implement. For example, creating and installing terminals and direct phone lines to shopping malls, and bars, and bus stops, etc... This is an excellent idea, however, I believe we are missing one very important thing here. How do we control or keep the quality of our service at what it is now with all this additional equipment and these additional lines? Is it not more important that NCF focus on and gear towards our SERVICES to the people, instead of HOW MANY people it can serve. It is a question of quality achieved before quantity. By making sure that we meet the needs of the people we have now, we will at the same time ensure we do not GROW too large too quickly adding confusion to the equation. I believe we must make sure that the integrity of our existing system does not fall below expectations nor even come close to becoming an administrative nightmare. Basically, by making sure that our SERVICES are really relating to the people, and is run by the people and for the people (sorry had to bring it in :) ) the users will be satisfied and thus word of mouth will travel. Once we have a STRONG foundation, we can take those next steps. This is a NON-PROFIT organization, not an organization to take risks and create a possible crisis. We have a system so far that is FREE and donations can be made but are not required. So far it is working. Before we start to stretch ourselves too far, we should concentrate on our foundation as our FIRST priority and expansion as our second. I truly believe that I belong on your Board of Directors. I have extensive experience in the communication world. As well, being a SYSOP who gives his all, and does not ask a single CENT to be paid in return, has made me sensitive to free BBS issues and dilemmas. I am someone who can talk to the NON computer literate or to those scary computer GURUs. I will represent you all in all forms and in all ways possible, and look forward to working with you by my side. On with a funny note, (ok, maybe not so funny): Vote for me if you want MO'FREENET! Johnny Mo, CNE. Candidate for NCF Board of Directors - am708 What's Johnny like? ------------------- WHAT'S JOHNNY LIKE? Marilyn "MJM" Matte and Kathie "Guinevere" Fraser, earnest reporters for the campaign to elect Johnny Mo to the National Capital Freenet Board of Directors, here with some background information on the heretofore unknown ... Johnny Mo. We had the opportunity to meet candidate Johnny Mo as he was leaving the hockey arena (quite an athletic fellow this relatively unknown candidate) and got a chance to question him about his background. Film is not available ... nor is a first person interview, but reconstruction of our notes (our very *good* notes), reveals: Mr. Mo is an experienced professional and a Certified Netware Engineer as well as a Member of the Professional Association for C.N.E. Since 1975 Mr. Mo has been enhancing and maintaining his computer-related experience. Mr. Mo is a consultant in the Computer Networking area. He has a very high level of technical expertise in the operation and use of micro-computer systems and an in depth knowledge of technology trends and forecasts. Mr. Mo has been responsible for a wide range of projects involving the selection, service, implementation, management, configuration and on-going support of local and wide area networks. As well, Mr. Mo has managed and conducted projects involving hard disk optimization, virus security, systems security, system upgrades, training, and setting up BBS. Mr. Mo's approach, dedication, thirst for knowledge, and desire to get things done on time enables him to provide the highest level of objective advice and support on many complex problems associated with micro-computers to clients in both the private, public, and educational sectors. He has a pleasant personality which allows him to work very well as a member of a technical team, with end users, and with management. So, take it from two reporters who know their way around the BBSs and vote for JOHNNY MO, who will be a welcome addition to any group - and especially the Freenet Board of Directors. If you are the kind of Freenet user who appreciates honesty, intelligence, and most of all a fun, friendly approach, you will appreciate Johnny Mo. Make your voice heard during the election this February and support a candidate who will represent you the way you want to be represented - as a human being using a computer! Please address any questions you may have to Kathie Fraser (an758) Marylin Matte (ag868) or to Johnny Mo himself (am708). We will all be happy to tell you more. Vote for Johnny... If you want MO'FREENET! (B9) Jim Morris... ============= Statement by Jim Morris ----------------------- STATEMENT BY JIM MORRIS Worked as Office Volunteer for the NCF in 1993. Active participation in the initial discussions to set up Telecommunities Canada, an umbrella organization for Freenets. Worked at NCF booth at the Ottawa Computer Show demonstrating and explaining the concept of Freenet, and distributing brochures. I am one of the principal owners of RESUDOX Online Services as Manager of Operations responsible for Marketing, Sales and Operations. RESUDOX Online Services is a locally owned Internet Access Provider Service. Previous experience that would benefit NCF: Acted as Team Manager of the Canadian Off-road Motorcycle Team 1983-1986. Managed and operated a small business for a partnership of businesses. Personal: Born 1959 Married I have lived in Ottawa since 1980 Obtained two degrees from Carleton University BA Labour Studies BA Law Reason for running for a position on the Board of Directors: I realize there are many dedicated and talented people on the NCF board. But I would like to see more participation by members of the business community. When one of the fundamental problems seems to be a lack of funds for the NCF, I believe that a board member who has a business background should be present. This person must also be aware of the needs and demands of the NCF. I know that I possess these qualities. I believe that there has to be a greater effort to reach out to the business community and to make them aware of the NCF. The Ottawa-Carleton community will benefit from the education on the subject of telecommunications provided by the NCF. (B10) Tony Smyth... ============= Who is TONY SMYTH? ------------------ Tony Smyth, Who am I? I am a 46 year old British immigrant. I have made Canada and the National Capital Region my home for the past 22 years. I am a former Theology student of St. Paul's University here in Ottawa. A switch from Theology, through social services brought me to the computer enviroment. I have operated a FidoNet bulletin board in the Ottawa area since 1988. I also act as a consultant on computer hardware and communications software in the Ottawa area. I joined the organizing committee of the National Capital Freenet in June 1991. I was elected to the Board of Directors of the NCF at the 1992 elections. I also sit on the Community Relations Committee and the Public Access Committee. I am aa196 Why I am running for Director? ------------------------------ Why am I running in this election ? Very simply, I would like to continue to help the NCF grow and prosper in a practical way. Being a part of the decision- making team is a major factor in helping this growth process. I know I can make a difference. Where I would like to see NCF go? --------------------------------- What does the Future hold ? I hope to see Canada connected by an electronic highway where each stop along the route is a 'freenet'. That is, a freenet in every community from Newfoundland to British Columbia. We have made an outstanding beginning on the Freenet highway here in Ottawa. The National Capital FreeNet has already grown beyond the expectations of those that were involved at the outset. Now we see what is immediately required - more access points and higher speed access. I want to help the NCF continue to grow. With the experience of one year now behind me, I have a better focus and understanding of what is required to make the Freenet responsive to the demands of you, its members. I see access to the Internet, through the Freenet systems, as a great information resource, a great communications resource and a great interactive resource. To harness all of these resources and make them available to you, who wish to use them, will require dedicated people. I am one of those people. I am proud to have been a member of the first elected Board of Directors of the NCF and I would, very much, like your support in the upcoming election so that I might continue the exciting work we have started. (B11) Richard Taylor... ================= Biography --------- BIOGRAPHY Richard P. Taylor - aa333 National Capital FreeNet Board Member, Dec. 1992 to present Organizer of the National Capital FreeNet On-line All Candidates' Meeting for Federal Election 1993 Information Provider for Citizens for Safe Cycling (go cfsc) Information Provider for The Carlington Summit (under the Newsstand) I am currently employed by the Atomic Energy Control Board as a Specialist in Control Software. My job is to assess the quality and safety of software-based control and protective systems used in nuclear power plants. The AECB is the Federal Government agency which licenses nuclear power plants. Previous volunteer experience: - Secretary for Citizens for Safe Cycling - Secretary to Carlington Kindergarten School Age Program - Board member, Alexander Community Association - Member of OBE Computers Helping the Instructional Program Advisory Committee - CUSO Papua New Guinea, High School teacher, 1978-80 Personal: Born 1956, married, two children. I live in Ottawa in the neighbourhood of Carlington. BSc in Physics from University of Toronto, 1978. Why am I running? ----------------- WHY AM I RUNNING? I have served on the Board of the National Capital FreeNet since it was formed at the end of 1992. It has been a very interesting and rewarding experience, helping in the birth and early growth of this community information service. I would like to continue using my experience and expertise to foster the growth of the Freenet and to make sure that it continues to be as free and open as possible. The initial Board was elected by a very small number of interested and enthusiastic people. Although those people were well-intentioned, were concerned about the fate of the FreeNet, and have been instrumental in making the FreeNet what it is today, I cannot believe that they represent the 13,000+ people who are now registered users and members. At a Board meeting in November 1993, I proposed a motion that the current Board should all resign and run for re-election because I felt that our mandate to run the National Capital FreeNet was weak. That motion did not pass. Since I still feel that my own mandate to serve on the Board is weak, I have resigned my seat on the Board and am running in this election in hopes of receiving a proper mandate from the current membership. I hope that you will examine my record and my statements concerning policies, and I hope that I can earn your support in this election. I would like to represent the FreeNet members, so please send me your questions and concerns. I will try to clarify where I stand on various issues so that you will know if I represent your own position. Position Paper on Internet Access --------------------------------- Richard P. Taylor (aa333) 1994-01-17 POSITION PAPER ON INTERNET ACCESS Internet, FTP, and Telnet The National Capital Freenet is connected to the worldwide Internet, and currently uses this connection for incoming access, two-way electronic mail, Gopher text file search and retrieval, USENET Newsgroups, and Telnet outgoing access to other Freenets. It is possible to use this connection for more services. The two most commonly requested are FTP (File Transfer Protocol) and Telnet (outgoing access to many other computers on the Internet). The NCF Board of Directors has decided NOT to provide these services for a number of reasons. I agree with this policy, and I will summarize these reasons as I understand them. 1) One of the goals of the NCF is to provide local community information. Neither FTP nor Telnet contribute to this goal, but are sufficiently attractive that they could shift the focus of the NCF away from local interests. 2) FTP in particular would almost certainly use up a lot of the NCF computer's disk space. Typically, people want FTP so they can download large files (images, software, books) from other computers. We don't have, and can't afford, enough disk space to satisfy a lot of users using FTP. 3) By restricting external access, NCF substantially reduces the risk of propagating computer viruses. Other security measures are possible, but the current restrictions allow us to say quite firmly "There is no danger of getting a virus from the National Capital FreeNet." This is important for increasing our membership, especially amongst new computer users. 4) FTP and Telnet would greatly increase the traffic over our Internet connection. We have to pay money for our Internet connection. We have negotiated a fairly low price based on our status as a free public service. If our thousands of members were of overload the Internet channels with their traffic, we would soon wear out our welcome. We would have to pay more money to upgrade the connection. 5) The Internet is a very loosely organized network of networks. The information that is provided on the Internet has been put there on the understanding that information should be "free". But users of Internet information have a moral obligation to provide information as well as taking it. If YOU want access to Internet information, what information are YOU going to provide to other Internet users? 6) It was pointed out in an article by Robert Neville in the Ottawa Citizen on 1993-01-08 (page B3) that the Internet is not user-friendly enough for the general public. I believe that Freenets have had and will have a major role to play in making the Internet more usable. But right now it isn't. If we opened up FTP and Telnet, we would be obligated to train FreeNet members in how to use them. We are not ready for this yet. People who know how to use FTP and Telnet already have access. NCF provides Gopher instead of FTP because it is menu-driven and easier to use. NCF provides Telnet access to other Freenets because all Freenets are using software which is familiar to NCF users. NCF provides access to USENET newsgroups because they operate the same way as NCF newsgroups. As with other policies, this will have to be re-examined on a regular basis. Users will become more sophisticated, the Internet will become more user-friendly, and Internet capacity will grow. NCF should help in making all of these changes happen. Position Paper: Modems ---------------------- Richard P. Taylor (aa333) 1994-01-17 POSITION PAPER: MODEMS I believe that the National Capital FreeNet should continue to purchase 2400 baud modems for new phone lines to try to maintain a ratio of 1 phone line per 100 registered users. This policy is intended to provide acceptable access to the largest number of members possible. 2400 baud access is acceptable because it provides for interaction at normal typing and reading speed, and it is still the most common speed for modems on home computers. Since 2400 baud modems are significantly cheaper than higher speed modems (in the rack-mounted format that we must use), we will be able to provide more lines at this speed and serve a larger number of members. Commercial network service companies are now providing higher speed access to the Internet and to the FreeNet for a price. Members who want this higher speed service can get it by paying for it. It would not be right to spend FreeNet money to provide better service to what I perceive as a minority of members. This will change. Hardware vendors are quickly increasing the speed of modems and lowering their price. I expect that within a year or two, the price of higher speed modems will drop substantially, 2400 baud modems will be regarded as "obsolete" and larger numbers of our users will have higher speed modems. We will need to re-examine this policy periodically. But at the moment, I am not convinced that higher speed modems would be the best use of our limited resources. Other changes are on the horizon. There have been suggestions that the cable TV connection should be used for information distribution rather than the telephone connection. I would not like to predict how quickly this development might take place. But we should recognize that the current situation will not exist for long and that we should try to position ourselves to provide the best service for the future. Again, I think we will have the best position if we provide acceptable access to the largest number of people. Position Paper: User Fees ------------------------- Richard P. Taylor (aa333) 1994-01-17 POSITION PAPER ON USER FEES I do not support the idea of charging users a fee for using the National Capital FreeNet. NCF was organized by volunteers as a free public information service. We are trying to give the general public easy and affordable access to electronic information and communication. Since our target "market" is people who have never used this kind of service before, it is very important that it be offered free of charge. We believe that everyone should use this service. But "everyone" does not necessarily agree with us. So we hope to convince them by demonstration. The FreeNet is also supposed to bring the community together, regardless of background, education, physical appearance, age, or wealth. Charging fees, especially charging fees for extra services would tend to split the community instead. I hope that members with extra money will donate some of theirs for the benefit of all, just as I hope that members with extra knowledge and skills will donate some of that for the benefit of all. There is more to a community than buying and selling - there should also be free giving and receiving.