PTJ on disk

[Bob Anderson]

The issue of whether or not the Journal shd be available on CD-ROM
presents an interesting question for us all. The computerization of the
world has behaved like all natural phenomena - it is like a double-edged
sword. The computer has opened new windows(pun not intended) for
communication. At the same time, it has opened new possibilities for
stealing, cheating, and reprehensible social behavior.

The guiding light of my involvement with PTG has been the examples of
those excellent technicians who have shared their experience with
others. The dark and treacherous waters of politics have left marks on
PTG as well, but the thing that always keeps me going is the quest after
excellence that has been exemplified by the best elements of PTG.

I have benefited immensely from the willing participation in  learning
experiences by the people who I've come most to respect in my 22 years
in PTG. I can't stop to name everyone, but one person close at hand who
has given freely of himself is Jim Coleman, Sr. He has been a good
influence on me. I admit I am not as sharing-spirited as he is, but then
I have a good role model to aim for. I'm sure those of you in other
parts of the country could think of similar people whose knowledge and
good will have remained in your hearts and minds  for as long as you
live.

I also respect the opinion that those  who share their expertise shd be
rewarded. Unfortunately, the dollar sign tends to barge in and degrade
the vision that strives toward excellence. The example of Bill Gates
springs forth. He must be a sort of genius. But Microsoft has been built
on piracy. What sort of role model is that? Bill Gates as he has shown
himself to be could never rise as high in my estimation as Jim Coleman,
Sr.

Maybe someday the PTJ will only be available on CD-Rom. That wd be a
shame. But we all have to deal with technology as it comes at us. It
won't make us better or worse. So let the Journal be available on
CD-ROM. It will help some people. Some people will take advantage of it.
We can't freeze in fear of the bad guys. When we start to hoard
knowledge, we start to suffocate our development.

Bob Anderson
Tucson, AZ