Volume 5, Number  6                               8 February 1988
    +---------------------------------------------------------------+
    |                                                  _            |
    |                                                 /  \          |
    |                                                /|oo \         |
    |        - FidoNews -                           (_|  /_)        |
    |                                                _`@/_ \    _   |
    |        International                          |     | \   \\  |
    |     FidoNet Association                       | (*) |  \   )) |
    |         Newsletter               ______       |__U__| /  \//  |
    |                                 / FIDO \       _//|| _\   /   |
    |                                (________)     (_/(_|(____/    |
    |                                                     (jm)      |
    +---------------------------------------------------------------+
    Editor in Chief                                       Dale Lovell
    Editor Emeritus:                                   Thom Henderson
    Chief Procrastinator Emeritus:                       Tom Jennings
    Contributing Editors:                                   Al Arango

    FidoNews  is  published  weekly  by  the  International   FidoNet
    Association  as  its  official newsletter.  You are encouraged to
    submit articles for publication in FidoNews.  Article  submission
    standards  are contained in the file ARTSPEC.DOC,  available from
    node 1:1/1.

    Copyright 1987 by  the  International  FidoNet  Association.  All
    rights  reserved.  Duplication  and/or distribution permitted for
    noncommercial purposes only.  For  use  in  other  circumstances,
    please contact IFNA at (314) 576-4067. IFNA may also be contacted
    at PO Box 41143, St. Louis, MO 63141.

    The  contents  of  the  articles  contained  here  are  not   our
    responsibility,   nor   do   we   necessarily  agree  with  them.
    Everything here is  subject  to  debate.  We  publish  EVERYTHING
    received.



                            Table of Contents

    1. ARTICLES  .................................................  1
       IFNA Board January Voting Summary  ........................  1
       ICONS Can help you communicate  ...........................  4
       NaughtNet: Another New Network  ...........................  6
       POLICY4 Draft Proposal from Thom Henderson  ............... 11
    2. COLUMNS  .................................................. 26
       The Apple Core  ........................................... 26
    3. WANTED  ................................................... 29
    4. NOTICES  .................................................. 31
       The Interrupt Stack  ...................................... 31
       Latest Software Versions  ................................. 31
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 1                    8 Feb 1988


    =================================================================
                                ARTICLES
    =================================================================

    Bob Swift
    The Power Station (1:140/24)
    IFNA Board Member-At-Large


            IFNA Board of Directors Business for January 1988
            -------------------------------------------------

    There were a total of 7 items voted on by the Board.  Results are
    as listed.  Votes are shown as AYE-NAY-HOLD-ABSTAIN.

    - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

    DOCKET NUMBER: BOD-122087.01 - PASSED by vote of 13-0-0-0

    Resolution:   Allowable ballots  will contain  either  YEA,  NAY,
    ABSTAIN, or HOLD.

    Actual text  of resolution:   Be  it resolved  that the following
    points be  instituted relative to the voting process in the Board
    of Directors:

    A.  For each  action  to  be  voted  upon  there  shall  be  four
        possible responses:

          1.  YEA - Election of this option signifies support for the
              motion in question.
          2.  NAY -  Election of  this option  signifies rejection of
              the motion in question.
          3.  ABSTAIN -  Election of  this option makes the statement
              that the  voter either  has no choice or chooses to not
              decide for whatever reason.
          4.  HOLD - Election of this option signifies a request that
              the due date of the motion in question automatically be
              held over to the following vote date.

    B.  In order  for a  motion appearing  on  the  floor  during  an
        electronic session  to be  passed or  rejected there  must be
        received a  number of such votes from a majority of the total
        of all  members of  the Board  eligible to  vote, except that
        such total  shall be  reduced by  the number of ABSTAIN votes
        cast.   When a motion fails to receive such a majority of YEA
        or NAY votes, it shall automatically be held over to the next
        voting period.

    - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

    DOCKET NUMBER: BOD-122087.02 - PASSED by vote of 13-0-0-0

    Resolution:  Maintain current dues structure through 1988.

    Text of  actual resolution:  It is hereby resolved that the Board
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 2                    8 Feb 1988


    of Directors  maintain the current IFNA membership dues structure
    through 1988.

    - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

    DOCKET NUMBER: BOD-121987.02 - HELD by vote of 8-1-7-0
                   (Will re-appear on the ballot for 88/01/24)

    Resolution:   The Vice President - Technical Coordinator for IFNA
    be given  sole responsibility  for the contents and format of the
    weekly nodelist.
    Text of actual resolution:  It is hereby resolved that the weekly
    nodelist contents  and format  be under  the control  of the Vice
    President - Technical Coordinator, with changes being voted on by
    the full  Board of  Directors.   The FidoNet  Technical Standards
    Committee is  available to assist the VP-TC if necessary.  In the
    past, the format and content has been covered by document FSC002,
    this resolution  passes control of the document to the VP-TC, and
    gives the  full Board  of Directors  the power  to accept or deny
    proposed changes.

    - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

    DOCKET NUMBER: BOD-122087.03 - PASSED by vote of 10-3-3-0

    Resolution: Declaration of Ben Baker as an Honorary Member

    Text of  resolution: It  is hereby resolved that, in appreciation
    for the  many past  services rendered  to IFNA  and to FidoNet in
    general, the  Board of  Directors of  the  International  FidoNet
    Association declare Ben Baker as its first Honorary Member.

    - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

    DOCKET NUMBER: BOD-123087.01 - PASSED by vote of 15-4-1-0

    Resolution: IFNA  has no  desire to  effect a policy statement to
    control any echomail areas that are not specifically IFNA echos.


    Text of actual resolution: IFNA believes that one of the benefits
    of an  electronic mail  system is the free-flow of information in
    all forms, including electronic conferencing (ie echomail).  IFNA
    also  has   no  desire   to  regulate,   control  or  censor  any
    conferencing systems used in the FidoNet electronic mail system.

    - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

    DOCKET NUMBER: BOD-122287.01 - HELD by vote of 9-7-2-1
                   (Will be held until the BoD Meeting of 88/02/20)

    Resolution:   Bring discussion of Policy4 back from the Executive
    Committee to the full Board of Directors.

    Text of actual resolution: Motion to bring back for consideration
    by the  full board  the agenda item IIA Consideration of adopting
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 3                    8 Feb 1988


    revised Policy4.   As was sent to executive committee at the last
    meeting of the whole on August 23, 1987.

    - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

    DOCKET NUMBER: BOD-121987.02 - PASSED by vote of 12-5-1-0

    Resolution:   The Vice President - Technical Coordinator for IFNA
    be given  sole responsibility  for the contents and format of the
    weekly nodelist.

    Text of actual resolution:  It is hereby resolved that the weekly
    nodelist contents  and format  be under  the control  of the Vice
    President - Technical Coordinator, with changes being voted on by
    the full  Board of  Directors.   The FidoNet  Technical Standards
    Committee is  available to assist the VP-TC if necessary.  In the
    past, the format and content has been covered by document FSC002,
    this resolution  passes control of the document to the VP-TC, and
    gives the  full Board  of Directors  the power  to accept or deny
    proposed changes.

    - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

    DOCKET NUMBER: BOD-011088.01 - PASSED by vote of ?-0-1-0

    Resolution:   That a  summary document of IFNA Board of Directors
    Operating Policy be maintained and be publicly accessible.

    Text of  actual resolution:  It is hereby resolved that a summary
    document of Board of Directors Operating Policy be maintained and
    be publicly accessible for the membership (or potential members).
    The purpose  of this  document is  to maintain  a record of items
    decided by  the Board  of Directors which affect the operation of
    the Board  and are  not covered  in currently  existing documents
    such  as  the  Articles  of  Association  and  FidoNet  Policy  &
    Procedures document.   It is also designed to provide a guideline
    concerning the operation of the Board.

    It is  further  resolved  that  summary  documents  of  Board  of
    Directors activity  and  voting  results  be  maintained  and  be
    publicly accessible  for the  membership (or  potential members).
    The purpose  of this  document is to help allow the membership to
    be fully informed of the actions of the Board of Directors and to
    provide historical documentation of voting results.

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 4                    8 Feb 1988


               ICONS Help you get the thought out!


            Are you afraid that you come across differently
     electronically than you do on paper, over the phone or
     in person?  The answer may be icons!  The icons listed
    below can help you express those no-verbal signals that
    are all but impossible to express over the net.

    Any additions to this list would be greatly appreciated!
    Send all comments and additions to David Melnik at 107/233.

            :-)     Smiling

            :-(     Frowning

            '-)     Wink

            ;-)     Sardonic incredulity

            %-)     Drunk with laughter

            :-"     Pursing lips

            :-O     Wow!

            :-|     Grim

            := |    Baboon

            :-v     Speaking

            :-V     Shouting

            :-W     Speak with forked tongue

            :-r     Sticking tongue out

            :-*     Oops! (covering mouth with hand)

            :-T     Keeping a straight face (tight-lipped)

            :-D     Said with a smile

            :-x     Kiss

            :-c     Real unhappy

            :-C     Just totally unbelieving! (Jaw dropped)

            :-B     Drooling

            :-,     Smirk

            :-||    Anger

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 5                    8 Feb 1988


            :-$     Uncertainty

            :-#     Mouth zipped

            :-&     Tangled up tongue

            :-@     Swearing


    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 6                    8 Feb 1988


    NaughtNet: Another New Network

    Aaron Priven

    FidoNet   (1:125/1154.0)
    NaughtNet (0:000/0000.0)

           "I've had nothing yet," Alice replied in an offended
           tone: "so I can't take more."

    That quote (from Lewis Carroll if you saw a movie of _Alice in
    Wonderland_ so bad that it didn't include that line) expresses
    the mood of the moment. Or to put it another way:

           I'm Nobody! Who are you?
           Are you -- Nobody -- too?
           Then there's a pair of us!
           Don't tell! they'd advertise -- you know!

           How dreary -- to be -- Somebody!
           How public -- like a Frog --
           To tell one's name -- the livelong June --
           To an admiring Bog!

                    -- Emily Dickinson


    (Only the table of contents and the overview are presented here.
    Other sections are available by request.)

                            N A U G H T N E T

                       Policy and Procedures Guide

                                Version 0

                            00 Zeroember 1900



    0 Overview  ................................................   0
      0.0 Definitions  .........................................   0
      0.0 The Levels of NaughtNet  .............................   0
    0 Sysop Procedures  ........................................   0
      0.0 How to get a node number  ............................   0
      0.0 If you are going down  ...............................   0
      0.0 How to join a network  ...............................   0
      0.0 How to form a network  ...............................   0
    0 Network Coordinator Procedures  ..........................   0
      0.0 Routing inbound mail  ................................   0
      0.0 Assigning node numbers  ..............................   0
      0.0 Maintaining the node list  ...........................   0
      0.0 Passing along node lists and NaughtNews  .............   0
      0.0 Forwarding newsletter submissions  ...................   0
    0 Regional Coordinator Procedures  .........................  00
      0.0 Assigning node numbers  ..............................  00
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 7                    8 Feb 1988


      0.0 Encouraging the formation and growth of networks  ....  00
      0.0 Assigning network numbers  ...........................  00
      0.0 Maintaining the node list  ...........................  00
      0.0 Overseeing network operations  .......................  00
      0.0 Passing along node lists and NaughtNews  .............  00
      0.0 Forwarding newsletter submissions  ...................  00
    0 International Coordinator Procedures  ....................  00
    0 Resolution of Disputes  ..................................  00
      0.0 Problems with another node  ..........................  00
      0.0 Problems with a Network Coordinator  .................  00
      0.0 Problems with a Regional Coordinator  ................  00
      0.0 Problems with the International Coordinator  .........  00
      0.0 Appeals to the International Coordinator  ............  00
      0.0 Case Histories  ......................................  00
          0.0.0 The Case of the Crooked Node  ..................  00
          0.0.0 The Case of the Hacker Mailer  .................  00
          0.0.0 The Case of the Network Mutiny  ................  00
          0.0.0 The Case of the Bothered Barker  ...............  00
          0.0.0 The Case of the Busy Beaver  ...................  00
          0.0.0 The Mark of the Devil  .........................  00
          0.0.0 The Case of the Sysop Twit  ....................  00
          0.0.0 The Case of the EchoMail Junkey ................  00
          0.0.0 The Case of the Bouncing Board  ................  00


                                Chapter 0

                                OVERVIEW

    NaughtNet is a new amateur e-mail network. It is an offspring of
    the world-famous Fidonet network.

    The founders of Naughtnet believe that Naughtnet addresses all
    the problems that past alternate networks were formed to
    address, and in fact will address any future problems that
    Fidonet nodes have with IFNA and the Fidonet heirarchy. Such
    problems, as we see them, include:

    o   Entirely too much interest shown by certain people in the
        functioning of FidoNet, disturbing the conformity of a well-
        ordered network;

    o   Communication is all too possible, with more and more nodes
        every week, and echomail making even users able to talk with
        those in far-away cities and countries (this being alien to
        the initial spirit of FidoNet, where only sysops could
        afford to send mail);

    o   Expansion of BBS and netmail software possibilites
        (including Opus and BinkleyTerm), makes it impossible for
        the old-time Fido monopoly to continue;

    o   A tremendous upsurge in the number of people willing to
        volunteer for Net, Region, and Zone Coordinators, as well as
        chairmen and members of committees, suggests that the sysops
        at large want a voice in the operation of Fidonet; this
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 8                    8 Feb 1988


        would be dangerous to the order of the net, and thus should
        be eliminated.


    We feel that these are the reasons that IFNA has proven a
    complete failure and both it and FidoNet should be scrapped in
    favor of NaughtNet.

    0.0     Definitions

    NaughtNet nodes are grouped on several levels.  These are as
    follows:

    o   Nodes;  A node is a single Naughtnet address. This is the
        smallest recognized unit of NaughtNet, and the only one
        anybody likes.

    o   Networks; A network is a collection of nodes, usually in a
        relatively small geographic area. Networks coordinate their
        mail activity to decrease cost and increase mail throughput.

        In NaughtNet it is felt that networks are one of the prime
        causes of disorder; nodes are wont to complain when they
        don't get everything they want from their network hosts.
        Therefore, networks have been eliminated in Naughtnet. We
        feel this will lessen both the number of complaints and the
        number of people who want a voice in discussions.

    o   Regions;  A region is a well defined geographic area
        containing nodes. Of course, the nodes can't be in networks,
        but that makes the Regional Coordinator's job easier. Here
        are the regions that make up Naughtnet:

        Earth   -- 00  Moon     -- 00  Pluto and Charon      -- 00
        Jupiter -- 00  Callisto -- 00  Other Jovian moons    -- 00
        Europa  -- 00  Ganymede -- 00  Jovian rings          -- 00
        Mars    -- 00  Phobos   -- 00  Saturnian rings       -- 00
        Mercury -- 00  Deimos   -- 00  Uranus                -- 00
        Sun     -- 00  Venus    -- 00  Uranian moons         -- 00
        Saturn  -- 00  Titan    -- 00  Other Saturnian moons -- 00
        Io      -- 00  Neptune  -- 00  Triton and Nereid     -- 00

    o   Zones;  A zone is a large geographic area containing many
        regions, and covering one or more astronomical districts.
        These are the zones in NaughtNet:

        Solar System -- 0         Rest of Milky Way -- 0
        Andromeda Galaxy -- 0     Rest of Local Group -- 0
                       Rest of Universe -- 0


    o   NaughtNet; This indicates nothing at all, as should be self-
        evident.


    0.0     The Levels of NaughtNet
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 9                    8 Feb 1988


    NaughtNet has no real levels, because it has weak legs and can't
    climb stairs, and is claustrophobic and can't ride elevators.
    But the following will suffice:

    o   The  International  Coordinator; The  International
        Coordinator can compile all of the node lists from all of
        the regions and creates the master node list, which could
        then be distributed over NaughtNet if the International
        Coordinator really wanted to for some reason. The following
        is a sample nodelist (with widths wrapped around):

    Region,00,Around_Nowhere,Nowhere_Much,Nobody,-Unpublished-
        ,000,#00:
    ,00,Zilch,Blank,Null,-Unpublished-,000,#00:
    Down,00,Naught,Absence,Tabula_Rasa,-Unpublished-,000,#00:
    ,00,Nihility,Cipher,Not_Me_Dude!,-Unpublished-,000,#00:
    ,00,Insubstantiality,Oblivion,Nominis_Umbra,-Unpublished-
        ,000,#00:


    o   The Zone Coordinator; In some cases the International
        Coordinator will appoint a Zone Coordinator to oversee
        FidoNet operations in a given zone. There are no duties or
        responsibilities of Zone Coordinators, so usually there
        aren't any. In fact, the appointment of a Zone Coordinator
        is grounds for removal of any particular IC, so it's not
        done a lot; it is however an easy way to resign.

    o   The  Regional Coordinator;  The Regional Coordinator
        maintains the list of nodes in his region. Usually any given
        RC won't bother, since all the nodes in NaughtNet are
        unpublished, but sometimes he gets bored.

    o   The  Network  Coordinator;  Anyone claiming to be a Network
        Coordinator is summarily shot in regions where no other
        legal jurisdiction exists. In other regions that person will
        simply be forced to do thirty pushups, unless that person is
        (as well as being part of NaughtNet) an ice-cream salesman,
        in which case he will have to eat thirty Frozen Yogurt Push-
        Ups <tm>.

    o   The Network Routing Hub; Network Routing Hubs exist only in
        three-tiered networks.  Since in NaughtNet there are no
        networks, there are obviously no Network Routing Hubs.
        Anyone claming to be a Network Routing Hub will suffer the
        same fate as his Network Coordinator, or if there is no
        Network Coordinator, will be placed in the nearest planetary
        mental institution.

    o   The system operator (sysop);  The sysop formulates his own
        policy for running his board and dealing with his users, so
        that will not be discussed in this document.  However,  the
        sysop must also do everything the IC wants and not argue
        about it, even if the sysop feels it's none of the IC's
        business.

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 10                   8 Feb 1988


    o   The user; Policy and procedures for the individual user
        on any given board is determined by that user. Sysops can't
        do anything about it, that's just tough.

    These levels act to put everybody under the thumb of whoever
    takes charge; this is considered desireable because the author
    of this document is in charge.

    For example, a Regional Coordinator is solely responsible to the
    International Coordinator for anything that may or may not
    happen in his region. From the point of view of the
    International Coordinator, the Regional Coordinator is totally
    and completely responsible for the smooth operation of his
    region. Likewise, from the point of view of anybody else, the
    International Coordinator is just as much an interfering jerk as
    he is to the Regional Coordinator.

    If a person at any level is unable for any reason to properly
    perform his duties, then he will suffer the fate of a Net
    Coordinator. That's the breaks.



    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 11                   8 Feb 1988


    Ed note: This is one of several proposals for the new POLICY4
             document which is being published for review by FidoNet
             Sysops and the subcommittee of Membership Services. It
             was prepared by Thom Henderson prior to his departure
             into AlterNet.  Publication of these proposals will
             take place in FidoNews weekly until they have all been
             seen.

             Discussion regarding the new POLICY4 is taking place in
             the POLICY4 EchoMail conference.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------

                             F I D O N E T

                      Policy and Procedures Guide

                              Version 4

                    * * *  P R O P O S A L  * * *

    1 Overview
     1.1 The Levels of FidoNet
     1.2 Coordinators
    2 Sysop Procedures
     2.1 How to get a node number
     2.2 If you are going down
     2.3 How to form a network
    3 Coordinator Procedures
     3.1 Administrative tasks
       3.1.1 Maintaining the node list
       3.1.2 Assigning node numbers
       3.1.3 Problem resolution
        3.1.4 Formulating local policy
     3.2 Node list distribution
     3.3 Newsletter distribution
     3.4 Network mail distribution
     3.5 Anything else
     3.6 Specific coordinator procedures
       3.6.1 International Coordinator procedures
       3.6.2 Zone Coordinator procedures
       3.6.3 Regional Coordinator procedures
       3.6.4 Network Coordinator procedures
       3.6.5 Hub Coordinator procedures
    4 Resolution of Disputes
     4.1 Case Histories
       4.1.1 The Case of the Crooked Node
       4.1.2 The Case of the Hacker Mailer
       4.1.3 The Case of the Network Mutiny
       4.1.4 The Case of the Bothered Barker
       4.1.5 The Case of the Busy Beaver
       4.1.6 The Case of the Sysop Twit
       4.1.7 The Case of the EchoMail Junkey key key
       4.1.8 The Case of the Bouncing Board

                                  Chapter 1

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 12                   8 Feb 1988


                                  OVERVIEW

    FidoNet is an amateur electronic mail system.  As such, all of
    its participants and operators are non-paid volunteers.  From
    its early beginnings as a few friends swapping messages back and
    forth, it has now grown to (August 1987) over 2000 different
    systems on four continents.

    FidoNet is large enough that it would quickly fall apart of its
    own weight unless some sort of structure and control were
    imposed on it.  Multinet operation provides the structure.
    Decentralized management provides the control.  This document is
    an attempt to describe the procedures which have been developed
    to manage the network.



    1.1  The Levels of FidoNet

    FidoNet nodes are grouped on several levels.  These are as
    follows:

    o FidoNet; This indicates the entire public amateur mail
    network, as administered by the International FidoNet
    Association, and as defined by the weekly node list.

    o Zones; A zone is a large geographic area containing many
    regions, and covering one or more countries and/or continents.

    o Regions; A region is a well defined geographic area containing
    nodes which may or may not be combined into networks.  A typical
    region will contain many nodes in networks, and a few
    independent nodes, which are not a part of any network.

    o Networks; A network is a collection of nodes, usually in a
    relatively small geographic area.  Networks coordinate their
    mail activity to decrease cost and increase mail throughput.

    o Hubs; A hub is a subdivision of a network that assists in
    network management by routing mail to, and by coordinating for,
    a collection of nodes in that network.  In general only the
    larger networks will have hubs.

    o Nodes; A node is a single FidoNet address, and is the smallest
    recognized unit of FidoNet.

    o Points; A point is a node on a private network which is
    accessible through a node on FidoNet.

    1.2 Coordinators

    Each subdivision at each level is managed by a coordinator.  A
    coordinator is a person who coordinates the technical aspects of
    network mail.  This entails both administrative and technical
    tasks, which will be described later.  The following levels of
    coordinators are currently recognized:
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 13                   8 Feb 1988


    o The International Coordinator; The International Coordinator
    compiles all of the node lists from all of the regions and
    creates the master node list, which is then distributed over
    FidoNet.

    o The Zone Coordinator; A Zone Coordinator maintains the list of
    administrative nodes in his zone and accepts node lists from the
    Regional Coordinators in his zone.  He compiles these lists to
    create a zone node list, which he then sends to the
    International Coordinator for inclusion in the master node list.
    A Zone Coordinator is also responsible for overseeing any zone
    gateways in his zone.

    o The Regional Coordinator; A Regional Coordinator maintains the
    list of independent nodes in his region and accepts node lists
    from the Network Coordinators in his region.  He compiles these
    lists to create a regional node list for his region, which he
    then sends to his Zone Coordinator.  A Regional Coordinator does
    not perform routing services for any nodes in his region.

    o The Network Coordinator; A Network Coordinator maintains the
    list of any nodes in his network that are not served by a hub
    and accepts node lists from the Hub Coordinators in his network.
    He compiles these lists to create a network node list for his
    network, which he then sends to his Regional Coordinator.  A
    Network Coordinator is also responsible for forwarding any mail
    addressed to nodes in his network.

    o The Hub Coordinator; A Hub Coordinator maintains the list of
    nodes in his hub and sends it to his Network Coordinator.  A Hub
    Coordinator is also responsible for forwarding any mail
    addressed to nodes in his hub.

    o The Point Coordinator; Any node in FidoNet can act as a
    gateway to a point network.  The Sysop (or system operator) of
    that node then acts as the coordinator for his point network.

    o The Sysop; A Sysop formulates his own policy for running his
    board and dealing with his users, so that will not be discussed
    in this document.  However, a Sysop must also mesh with the rest
    of the FidoNet system if he is to send and receive mail, and
    that will be discussed here.

    These levels act to distribute the administration and control of
    FidoNet to the lowest possible level, while still allowing for
    coordinated action over the entire mail system.  Administration
    is made possible by operating in a strict top-down manner.  That
    is, a coordinator at any given level is responsible to the
    coordinator immediately above him, and responsible for everyone
    below him.

    For example, a Regional Coordinator is solely responsible to his
    Zone Coordinator for anything that may or may not happen in his
    region.  From the point of view of the Zone Coordinator, the
    Regional Coordinator is totally and completely responsible for
    the smooth operation of his region.  Likewise, from the point of
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 14                   8 Feb 1988


    view of the Regional Coordinator, the Network Coordinators are
    totally and completely responsible for the smooth operation of
    their networks.

    If a coordinator at any level above sysop is unable for any
    reason to properly perform his duties, he can be replaced by his
    coordinator at the next level up.  For example, if a Regional
    Coordinator is failing to perform his duties, then his Zone
    Coordinator can appoint a new Regional Coordinator to replace
    him.

    The primary responsibility of any coordinator is technical
    management of network operations.  Management decisions should
    be made strictly on technical grounds.

                            Chapter 1

                         SYSOP PROCEDURES
    A sysop of an individual node can pretty much do as he pleases,
    as long as he observes the mail events, is not excessively
    annoying to other nodes on FidoNet, and does not promote the
    distribution of pirated copyrighted software.

    National Mail Hour is the heart of FidoNet, as this is when
    network mail is passed between systems.  Any system which wishes
    to be a part of FidoNet must be able to receive mail at this
    time.  A system which is a member of a network may also be
    required to observe additional mail events, as defined by his
    Network Coordinator.

    Failure to observe the proper mail events is sufficient grounds
    for any node to be dropped from FidoNet without notice (since
    notice is generally given by FidoNet mail).

    Network mail systems generally operate unattended and place
    calls at odd hours of the night.  If a system tries to call an
    incorrect or out of date number, it could cause some poor
    citizen's phone to ring in the wee hours of the morning, much to
    the annoyance of innocent bystanders and civil authorities.  For
    this reason, a sysop who sends mail is obligated to obtain and
    use the most recent edition of the node list as is practical.

    A system which has been dropped from the network is said to be
    excommunicated (i.e.  unable to communicate).  A node which has
    been excommunicated may or may not be listed for a time in the
    "dog house", which is included in the comments at the end of the
    node list.  If you find that you have been excommunicated
    without warning, then that means that your coordinator was
    unable to contact you.  You should rectify the problem and
    report back.

    The exact timing of National Mail Hour is set for each zone by
    the Zone Coordinator.  In the United States, National Mail Hour
    is observed from 0900 to 1000 GMT every day, weekends included.
    In each of the United States time zones, this would be as
    follows:
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 15                   8 Feb 1988


     Eastern Standard Time  4 AM to 5 AM
     Central Standard Time  3 AM to 4 AM
     Mountain Standard Time 2 AM to 3 AM
     Pacific Standard Time  1 AM to 2 AM
     Hawaii Standard Time  11 PM to Midnight

    FidoNet does not observe daylight savings time.  In areas which
    observe daylight savings time the FidoNet mail schedules must be
    adjusted in the same direction as the clock change.
    Alternatively, you can simply leave your system on standard
    time.

    2.1 How to get a node number

    You must first obtain a current node list so that you can send
    mail.  You do not need a node number to send mail, but you must
    have one in order for others to send mail to you.

    The first step in obtaining a current node list is to locate a
    FidoNet bulletin board.  No help there; you're on your own.
    Most bulletin board lists include at least a few FidoNet
    systems, and usually identify them as such, so this shouldn't be
    too hard.

    If the sysop of any FidoNet system does not have a node list
    available for downloading, then he can probably tell you where
    to get one.

    Once you have a node list, you must determine which coordinator
    to apply to.  The coordinator of any network or region is always
    node zero of that network or region.  A Hub Coordinator will
    always be indicated in the node list by a "HUB" prefix.

    You should apply to the lowest-level coordinator that covers
    your area.  For example, if you are located within the hub of a
    network, then you would apply to the Hub Coordinator.  If there
    is no network that covers your area, then you would apply to the
    Regional Coordinator for your region.

    Your application for a node number must be sent to the
    coordinator by FidoNet mail, and must include at least the
    following:

     1) Your name.
     2) The name of your system.
     3) The city and state where your system is located.
     4) The phone number to be used when calling your system.
     5) Your hours of operation.
     6)The maximum baud rate you can support.

    Your coordinator may want additional information.  If so, he
    will contact you.  Please allow at least two to three weeks for
    a node number request to be processed.

    2.2 If you are going down

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 16                   8 Feb 1988


    If your node will be down for an extended period (more than a
    day or two), then you should inform your coordinator as soon as
    possible.  If you do not do this, then other systems will still
    try to reach you while you are down, much to the annoyance of
    everyone.  Do not under any circumstances put an answering
    machine or similar device on your phone line while you are down.
    If you do, then calling systems will get the machine repeatedly,
    racking up large phone bills, which is very annoying.  See the
    section on Resolution of Disputes for details on what happens to
    annoying people.

    If your system goes down without warning, then you may be placed
    in the dog house, or even removed from the node list completely.

    If you will be leaving your system unattended for an extended
    period of time (such as while you are on vacation), you should
    notify your coordinator.  Systems do have a tendency to "crash"
    now and then, so you will probably want your coordinator to know
    that it is a temporary condition if it happens while you are
    away.

    2.3 How to form a network

    If there are several nodes in your area, but no network, then
    you may wish to form your own.  You may also be requested to
    form a network by your Regional Coordinator.

    Your first step is to contact the other sysops in your area.
    You must decide which nodes will comprise the network, and which
    of those nodes is going to be the Network Coordinator.  Your
    next step is to inform your Regional Coordinator.  You must send
    him a FidoNet message with the following information:

    1) The region number(s), or network number(s) if a network is
    splitting up, that are affected by the formation of your
    network.  The Regional Coordinator will inform the coordinators
    of any affected networks that a new network is in formation.

    2) The name that you wish to call your network.  Please try to
    select a name that relates to your grouping.  For example,
    SoCalNet for nodes in the Southern California Area and MassNet
    for Massachusettes Area.  Remember if you call yourself DOGNET
    it doesn't help others know what area of the country (or even
    what country) your group is in.

    3) A copy of the proposed network's nodelist.  The nodelist file
    should be named Frrr-nnn.NET where rrr is the proposed host's
    current region or network number and nnn is his current node
    number.  For example, if the proposed host is currently listed
    as node 5 in region 13, then you would name the file
    F013-005.NET.  This file should be sent attached to the message
    of Application for a Network Number.

            SAMPLE FORMAT OF A Frrr-nnn.NET FILE

    (Ed note:  Sample of St. Louis format NODELIST.BBS goes here.)
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 17                   8 Feb 1988


    Granting of a network number is not automatic.  Your Regional
    Coordinator will review your application and inform you of his
    decision.

    Do not send a network number request to the International
    Coordinator.  All network number requests must be processed by
    the Regional Coordinator.

                            Chapter 3

                      COORDINATOR PROCEDURES

    This chapter describes the procedures followed by all
    coordinators at all levels.  Later we will go into more detail
    on those procedures which are specific to any given type of
    coordinator.

    All coordinators have four primary duties.  In order of
    decreasing importance, they are:

     1) Administrative tasks.

     2) Node list distribution.

     3) Newsletter distribution.

     4) Network mail distribution.

    At first glance it would seem that network mail distribution
    should be the highest priority, since after all that's why we're
    running a network in the first place.  But the first three
    priorities are needed to ensure smooth operation of the network,
    and hence must have a higher priority.

    3.1 Administrative tasks

    First and foremost, every coordinator is also the sysop of his
    own node.  It must be possible for others to reach you by
    network mail.  So in addition to the other tasks of a
    coordinator, you must also observe all of the requirements for
    being a node.

    3.1.1 Maintaining the node list

    A coordinator at any level must maintain his portion of the node
    list.  Almost any coordinator will have some nodes in his node
    list which are not a part of any subgroup.  For example, a Zone
    Coordinator must maintain a list of administrative nodes for his
    zone, and a Regional Coordinator must maintain a list of
    independent nodes in his region.  A Hub Coordinator (or the
    Network Coordinator in a network without hubs) must maintain the
    list of all nodes in his area.

    A coordinator is responsible for seeing to it that his portion
    of the node list is kept reasonably accurate.  You should
    attempt to implement name changes, phone number changes, and so
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 18                   8 Feb 1988


    forth in this node list as soon as possible.  You should also
    check from time to time to ensure that all of the listed nodes
    are in fact capable of accepting network mail.  How best to
    accomplish this is left to your discretion.

    If a node turns out to be "off the air" with no prior warning
    given to you, then you can either mark the node as down, place
    it in the dog house, or remove it from the node list completely,
    at your own discretion.

    3.1.2 Assigning node numbers

    You may assign node numbers to new nodes in your list, but keep
    in mind the following:

    1) It is your responsibility to ensure that the node number you
    assign is unique within that region or network.

    2) You should try to avoid assigning node numbers when an
    existing subdivision of your area already covers the location of
    the new node.  For example, a Regional Coordinator should try to
    avoid assigning independent nodes in a city that has its own
    network.

    You may also change the numbers of existing nodes in your area,
    though you should check with the respective nodes before doing
    so.

    You should not under any circumstances assign a node number to
    any system until you have received a formal request from that
    system by FidoNet mail.  This will ensure that the system is at
    least minimally operational.  The strict maintenance of this
    policy has been one of the great strengths of FidoNet.

    It is also recommended, though not required, that you call a
    board which is applying for a node number before assigning it a
    node number.

    You should use network mail to inform a new node of his node
    number, as this helps to insure that he is capable of receiving
    network mail.

    3.1.3 Problem resolution

    From time to time you may be called on to resolve a problem in
    your area.  This could be a technical problem relating to the
    four primary duties of a coordinator, or it could be related to
    annoying behaviour on the part of someone in your area.

    If the problem is caused by a node or a coordinator immediately
    under you, then it is your responsibility to resolve the problem
    in whatever manner you deem fit.  If the problem is in a
    subdivision of your area, then you should first refer it to the
    appropriate coordinator.  If that coordinator does not resolve
    the problem satisfactorily, then you can appoint a replacement.

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 19                   8 Feb 1988


    3.1.4 Formulating local policy

    It is your responsibility to formulate any local policies which
    are required for the smooth operation of your assigned area.
    Any policies you establish must not conflict with any policies
    established by a coordinator above you or with this policy
    document.

    3.2 Node list distribution

    The node list is posted weekly on Saturday, along with a
    "difference file" giving the changes for the week.  It is your
    responsibility to obtain the difference file from your
    coordinator every week and to distribute it to the coordinators
    below you.  The method of distribution is left to your
    discretion.  It is also desirable that you make it available for
    downloading by the general user, but this is not required.

    3.3 Newsletter distribution

    The newsletter, called FidoNews, is published weekly on Monday
    and is distributed as an archive named FNEWSvnn.ARC, where "v"
    is the volume number and "nn" is the issue number.  It is your
    responsibility to obtain this archive from your coordinator
    every week and to distribute it to the coordinators below you.
    The method of distribution is left to your discretion.  It is
    also desirable that you make it available for downloading by the
    general user in both archived an unarchived form, but this is
    not required.

    3.4 Network mail distribution

    It is your responsibility to ensure that network mail in your
    area is operating in an acceptable manner.  Exactly what this
    involves will depend on what level you are at, and will be
    discussed in more detail below.

    3.5 Anything else

    You should encourage sysops and users in your region to
    contribute to FidoNews.  If you receive any submissions, you
    should forward them to the FidoNews publisher.  Think of
    yourself as being a regional bureau chief on the FidoNews
    editorial staff.

    FidoNews and the node list are the glue that holds us together.
    Without them, we cease to be a community, and become just
    another random collection of bulletin boards.

    3.6 Specific coordinator procedures

    The above outlines the procedures which are followed by all
    coordinators.  We will now discuss additional procedures
    followed by specific types of coordinators.

    3.6.1 International Coordinator procedures
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 20                   8 Feb 1988


    The International Coordinator is appointed by the Board of
    Directors of the International FidoNet Association, Inc.  The
    Board of Directors can appoint a replacement for the
    International Coordinator at any time.

    The International Coordinator is responsible for the weekly
    creation of the master node list, and the creation of a weekly
    difference file listing node list changes.  This difference file
    is to be distributed to the various Zone Coordinators on
    Saturday morning.

    The International Coordinator is responsible for allocating
    zones, assigning zone numbers, and for appointing the Zone
    Coordinator for each zone.

    3.6.2 Zone Coordinator procedures

    A Zone Coordinator is responsible for dividing his zone into
    regions, assigning region numbers, and for appointing the
    Regional Coordinator for each region.  A Zone Coordinator also
    assigns a pool of numbers to each Regional Coordinator for use
    in assigning network numbers.

    A Zone Coordinator is responsible for locating nodes willing to
    act as zone gates for passing mail between his zone and the
    other zones, if at all possible.  A Zone Coordinator should not
    appoint any node as a zone gate unless the sysop of that node is
    willing and able to provide reasonably reliable interzone mail.
    Zone gates are highly desirable, but if provided they must be
    reasonably reliable.

    A Zone Coordinator maintains the list of administrative nodes
    within his zone.  The administrative nodes will always have a
    region number the same as the zone number.  For example, the
    administrative nodes for Zone 3 will always be in Region 3.

    A Zone Coordinator may use administrative node addresses for
    whatever he likes, except that any node number which is the same
    as another zone number is reserved for the zone gate to that
    zone.  For example, in Zone 3 the network address "3/2" is
    reserved for use by the zone gate that passes mail from Zone 3
    to Zone 2.

    A Zone Coordinator may not assign a region number that is the
    same as any other zone number.  This is because administrative
    regions are, by definition, present in all zones.

    3.6.3 Regional Coordinator procedures

    A Regional Coordinator is responsible for approving new
    networks, assigning network numbers, and for appointing a
    Network Coordinator for each network.

    Each Regional Coordinator will be assigned a pool of numbers to
    use when assigning network numbers.  A Regional Coordinator
    should never assign a network number outside of this pool, and
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 21                   8 Feb 1988


    should never assign the same number to more than one network.
    If a Regional Coordinator assigns all of the numbers in his
    pool, he should apply to his Zone Coordinator for additional
    numbers.

    A Regional Coordinator should try to avoid the needless
    proliferation of networks.  Networks should not be allocated on
    any basis other than technical and practical considerations
    relating to network mail operations.  For example, persons
    wishing to establish networks on the basis of special interests
    or for company mail should be encouraged to investigate the
    alternatives, such as echomail conferences and point networks.

    A Regional Coordinator is responsible for maintaining the list
    of independent nodes within his region.  This will consist
    primarily of those nodes which are not within the coverage area
    of any network.  There are, however, certain cases where a node
    should not be a member of a network, such as a commercial system
    with a large volume of traffic which would clog the network.
    The resolution of such special cases is left to your own
    discretion.

    If several independent nodes in a region are in a "clump", then
    the Regional Coordinator should encourage or require them to
    form a network.  Refer to the sysop procedure on forming a
    network for more details.

    Note that this does not mean that a Regional Coordinator should
    encourage the formation of trivial networks.  Obviously, one
    node does not make a network.  The exact number of nodes
    required for an effective network must be judged according to
    the circumstances of the situation, and is left to the
    discretion of the Regional Coordinator.

    It is the responsibility of a Regional Coordinator to ensure
    that the networks within his region are operating in an
    acceptible manner.  This does not mean that he is required to
    operate those networks; that is the responsibility of the
    Network Coordinators.  It means that he is responsible for
    seeing to it that the Network Coordinators within his region are
    acting responsibly.

    A Regional Coordinator is obligated to maintain direct and
    reasonably frequent contact with the networks in his region.
    The exact method of accomplishing this is left to the discretion
    of the Regional Coordinator.

    3.6.4 Network Coordinator procedures

    A Network Coordinator is responsible for assigning node numbers
    to any nodes within his network which are not managed by a Hub
    Coordinator.  A Network Coordinator is also responsible for
    allocating any hubs within his network and for appointing a Hub
    Coordinator for each hub.  If a Network Coordinator assigns any
    Hub Coordinators, then he also assigns a pool of numbers to each
    Hub Coordinator for use in assigning node numbers.
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 22                   8 Feb 1988


    It is the responsibility of a Network Coordinator to receive all
    inbound mail for nodes in his network and to forward it to its
    recipients.  How to accomplish this is left to the discretion of
    the Network Coordinator.  However, there are a few exceptions:

    1) Once in awhile a node will try to make a "bombing run"
    (sending one message to a great many nodes).  Bombing runs are
    considered to be annoying, and may be dealt with accordingly.

    2) Occasionally a user will appear who receives a great deal of
    traffic.  If a single node is receiving enough mail to interfere
    with mail delivery to the other nodes in his network, then his
    Network Coordinator can refer him to his Regional Coordinator
    for reassignment as an independent node.

    3) The most common source of routing overload is echomail.
    Echomail is a nice invention, and offers great benefits, but it
    cannot be allowed to degrade the ability of FidoNet to handle
    normal message traffic.  If a node in a network is routing large
    volumes of echomail, the sysop can be asked to either limit the
    amount of echomail, or even to stop routing his echomail
    completely.  The design of echomail is such that it is a simple
    matter to do either of these.

    A Network Coordinator is responsible for assigning any
    additional mail events which may be required for operation of
    his network.  Any node in a network may be excommunicated for
    failing to observe these additional mail events.

    A Network Coordinator may appoint a node as the outbound gateway
    for his network if he so desires and if one can be found.  In no
    case should a node be appointed as an outbound gateway unless
    the sysop of that node is willing and able to provide reasonably
    reliable service.  Note that a Network Coordinator is not
    required to appoint an outbound gateway.  If a Network
    Coordinator chooses to appoint an outbound gateway, then it is
    left to the Network Coordinator to establish any rules,
    policies, and procedures relating to its use.

    3.6.5 Hub Coordinator procedures

    A Hub Coordinator is responsible for assigning node numbers to
    nodes in his area.  Each Hub Coordinator will be assigned a pool
    of numbers to use when assigning node numbers.  A Hub
    Coordinator should never assign a node number outside of this
    pool, and should never assign the same number to more than one
    node.  If a Hub Coordinator assigns all of the numbers in his
    pool, he should apply to his Network Coordinator for additional
    numbers.

    It is the responsibility of a Hub Coordinator to receive all
    inbound mail for nodes in his hub and to forward it to its
    recipients.  How to accomplish this is left to the discretion of
    the Hub Coordinator.  However, the same exceptions apply here as
    for a Network Coordinator.

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 23                   8 Feb 1988


    A Hub Coordinator may have additional duties, as assigned by his
    Network Coordinator.

                            Chapter 4

                     RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES

    The world not being perfect, sometimes troubles crop up.  Any
    organization larger than a cub scout pack needs some sort of
    grievance procedure, and FidoNet is no exception.

    The FidoNet judicial philosophy can be summed up in two rules:

     1) Thou shalt not excessively annoy others.

     2) Thou shalt not be too easily annoyed.

    In other words, there are no hard and fast rules of conduct, but
    reasonably polite behavior is expected.  Also, in any dispute
    both sides are examined, and action could be taken against
    either or both parties.  ("Judge not, lest ye be judged!")

    In any case of annoying behavior the person to complain to is
    the coordinator of the person who is annoying you.  For example,
    if you have a problem with a point or a user you would complain
    to his sysop, or if you have a problem with a Regional
    Coordinator you would complain to his Zone Coordinator, and so
    on.

    If the coordinator you complain to fails to resolve the problem,
    then you can complain to his coordinator.  For example, if you
    had a problem with a Hub Coordinator, you would first complain
    to his Network Coordinator.  Then if the Network Coordinator
    does not resolve the problem, you would complain to his Regional
    Coordinator.

    Do not ever skip over a coordinator when filing a complaint.
    That in itself is annoying.

    4.1 Case Histories

    A few actual case histories of past disputes may be instructive
    to show general procedures and methods.  Names have been left
    out to protect the guilty.

    4.1.1 The Case of the Crooked Node

    A sysop of a local node was using network mail to engage in
    unethical business practices.  His Network Coordinator became
    very annoyed at this, and dropped the local from his node list.

    The local appealed to his Regional Coordinator for assignment as
    an independent node.  The Regional Coordinator, on checking with
    the Network Coordinator, decided that the Network Coordinator
    was within his rights to be annoyed.  Independent status was
    denied.
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 24                   8 Feb 1988


    4.1.2 The Case of the Hacker Mailer

    A sysop of a local node made use of file attaches for extra
    users to mail himself the USER.BBS file from several local
    boards.  The sysops of these boards felt annoyed at this, and
    appealed to their Network Coordinator, who agreed and dropped
    the offending node from the node list.

    The Regional Coordinator was not consulted.

    The International Coordinator did not intervene.

    4.1.3 The Case of the Network Mutiny

    Several local nodes became annoyed with their Network
    Coordinator for failing to provide services.  They complained to
    him, but nothing was done.

    They appealed to their Regional Coordinator, who decided that
    they were justified in their annoyance and accepted their
    application for a new network number.

    4.1.4 The Case of the Bothered Barker

    A local node became annoyed with his Network Coordinator for
    failing to provide services.  Repeated complaints to his Network
    Coordinator did not satisfy him, so he appealed to the
    International Coordinator.

    The International Coordinator, on seeing that the Regional
    Coordinator had not been consulted, dismissed the complaint out
    of hand.

    The local node submitted his complaint to his Regional
    Coordinator, who investigated the case and discovered that there
    was some justice to the complaint.  He advised and assisted the
    Network Coordinator in configuring his system to provide an
    improved level of service to the local nodes.

    The Regional Coordinator also decided that the local node was
    being too easily annoyed, in that he was expecting services not
    normally required of a Network Coordinator.  The local node was
    informed as to the true duties of a Network Coordinator, and was
    advised to lower his expectations.

    4.1.5 The Case of the Busy Beaver

    A local node which was operated by a retail establishment was
    engaged in making "bombing runs" to mail advertisements over
    FidoNet.  His Network Coordinator felt annoyed and handling the
    outgoing traffic for a commercial operation, and asked the local
    node to leave the network.

    The local node applied to the Regional Coordinator, and was
    granted status as an independent node in his region.

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 25                   8 Feb 1988


    4.1.6 The Case of the Sysop Twit

    A patron of various local nodes had been roundly recognized by
    all sysops as a twit.  The user obtained his own system, became
    a sysop, and applied for a node number.  The Network Coordinator
    denied the request.  No appeals were made.

    4.1.7 The Case of the EchoMail Junkey key key

    A local node became enamored with EchoMail and joined several
    conferences, routing his outbound mail through his network.  He
    then started an EchoMail conference of his own and began
    relaying EchoMail between several systems, again routing it all
    through his network.

    His Network Coordinator observed that network performance was
    becoming seriously impaired.  The offending node was told to
    hold it down.  A compromise was reached whereby much of the
    EchoMail traffic was no longer routed through the network, and
    routed EchoMail was limited to twenty messages per night.  No
    appeals were made.

    4.1.8 The Case of the Bouncing Board

    A local user decided to establish a node to promote a worthy
    charity.  The machine being used was also used for various other
    activities during the day, and the sysop was often called away.
    His coworkers would often forget to bring the board up at the
    end of the day while he was away, so the node was often down for
    extended periods.  The Network Coordinator, on finding the node
    unable to receive mail, would mark it as down.  The sysop would
    return, restart the board, and ask to be reinstated as a node.

    The Network Coordinator eventually decided that the sysop was
    not able to maintain a reliable system, and removed him from the
    node list completely.  Future requests for a node number from
    the same sysop were turned down.  No appeals were made.

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 26                   8 Feb 1988


    =================================================================
                                 COLUMNS
    =================================================================

    The Apple Core
    Alan Applegate
    The Short Line, 1:104/36 (Mail Only)

    I've given a lot of thought lately to starting my own column here
    in FidoNews.   I  contacted Dale Lovell (FidoNews Editor) shortly
    after his first editorial appeared  in  FidoNews 5-01,  and after
    some  difficulty  getting started,  here I am in all  my  written
    glory.

    For the overly curious, I  operate a mail only node,  formerly an
    Opus system until I grew tired of my users.   I  am Editor of Net
    104  News (a twice-quarterly newsletter for the Denver net),   as
    well as a quarterly  newsletter  for my employer.  I  am proud to
    have  written  the documentation for one  of  the  most  powerful
    software  packages available to FidoNet:  BinkleyTerm.    My last
    appearance in FidoNews was issue 4-25, where I sputtered on about
    archiving programs.

    Although I'm proud of what I write, believe me, I do not consider
    myself a world class writer, or anything even close.

    In  upcoming columns,  I  hope to cover a wide variety of  topics
    from software reviews, to giving a good dose of  mindless dribble
    on current issues.   I   will always  welcome  your  comments and
    feedback; send your input to me at the node address listed above.
    Flames  will  not be dignified with a response;  general comments
    will be replied to if warranted, and as time allows.

    I promised Dale that I would shoot for bi-weekly with the column,
    we'll see how that unfolds.  Now on to column number one.

                                ----------

    I  had written-up my first column for FidoNews several weeks ago,
    and although the column is still timely, I've decided to shift it
    down a couple of weeks in favor of something more appropriate.

    In  my  introduction,   I   mentioned  "some  difficulty  getting
    started."   I was referring to getting off to a rough start in my
    attempts  to  communicate  with Dale  Lovell  about  starting  my
    column.

    Although I'm no old timer to FidoNet, I'm also no spring chicken.
    I'd like to believe,  however accurate or inaccurate, that I have
    played  and  continue to play a role in the shaping  of  FidoNet.
    What's  been  built  here  is  a  marvel  of  modern  technology.
    Inexpensive,    real-time,   rapid,   easy,   convenient  written
    communication at our fingertips.   Inexpensive is the one element
    that  strikes  me most;  that,  and being rapid.   I  can send  a
    message overnight (or even quicker) to a friend on the other side
    of the country for less than  the cost of a postage stamp.   If I
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 27                   8 Feb 1988


    wanted  to get the same message there by conventional means,  say
    Federal Express, I'd drop a ten-spot every time I got the urge to
    communicate.

    No,   FidoNet  isn't  going to be  threatening  Federal  Express'
    dominant role in overnight delivery, or closer to our genre,  MCI
    Mail and other such services.   It's not that the potential isn't
    there, it's our system.

    When  trying  to contact Dale about my column,  I  sent at  least
    three messages over the course of two weeks or so.   I  never did
    receive a response back from Dale.   Since I personally witnessed
    my  mail being sent to Dale's SEAdog,  I  assumed that  he  might
    harbor  some sort of antagonism toward me for some reason,  and I
    dropped the idea of writing a column.

    A  week or so ago in a burst of renewed interest,  I  decided  to
    ship-off one more message  (my fourth)  to Dale to 'give  him one
    more chance' to explain the reason he never wrote me.   I believe
    I said something to the effect that he 'owed me  an explanation.'
    Not  10  minutes after I crashed the message to him in the  early
    morning  hours,  I  received  a response back via crash mail that
    plainly stated that it was his fourth response...

    He  explained  that he normally routes his outbound mail  through
    someone  in  his  net,  and was certain (I believe  he'd  already
    checked) that the mail did make it out of his net, and we assume,
    to my local net coordinator.  I never received the mail.

    After sending a message to my coordinator (a very dedicated man),
    I  remembered  that he had  had some problems with his hard  disk
    over  the past few  weeks,  and the responses could  simply  have
    slipped through the cracks.

    There is not a single point to this article, but several.

    First,  FidoNet is not a for-profit system.  It works most of the
    time because it just happens to.   No one "owes" anyone anything.
    People volunteer, and they are expected to carry out their duties
    or pass along the baton to someone else.   That doesn't mean that
    our   systems   are   always  free  of   hardware   or   software
    problems...that's  part  of  the nature of  our  hobbiest  roots.
    PROBLEMS DO OCCUR.

    Second,  when problems occur, be patient.   Just because it would
    appear  that there's some sort of obvious problem  or  situation,
    doesn't  mean  that  one's  assessment  is  necessarily  correct.
    Patiently investigate where the problem might be, but don't point
    fingers.  WHEN PROBLEMS OCCUR, BE PATIENT.

    Third, just because you don't get a response from someone doesn't
    mean  they  hold anything against you.   People  are  busy,   and
    sometimes don't get around to responding.  Occasionally, messages
    are  accidently  deleted  before one has  a  chance  to  respond.
    Sometimes, as in my case, people DO respond,  you just don't know
    it because you never got the response (see the first item).  WHEN
    FidoNews 5-06                Page 28                   8 Feb 1988


    YOU GET NO RESPONSE, DON'T ASSUME ANYTHING.

    I learned the hard way I guess, and in the process,  kind of made
    an  ass  out of myself (I always reserve the right to  do  that).
    Dale was particularly understanding,  and sent me a  considerate,
    patient response (and I finally received it).   He could just  as
    easily have told me where to stick my FidoNews columns.

    People too often do just that...respond to flames with more fire.
    Folks,   two  wrongs  do  not make a right...one  of  the  oldest
    proverbs in the book.

    In most of the documentation I write (including this column,  see
    my introduction)  I say,  "Flames not dignified with a response."
    I try my hardest to hold by that.   I  may write a response  then
    erase  it,   just to get it out of my system,  but generally,   I
    simply don't respond.   I  refuse to stoop to the level of people
    who insist upon tearing apart what I say.

    Sending flames does no one any good.   What the person is  trying
    to  say is lost because it's so heavily engulfed  in  flames, and
    the person who receives the fireball  is too busy screaming about
    it to make an appropriate response.  This is not productive.

    I don't mind constructive criticism.   I  strive  to do well with
    whatever  it  is  that I do.   Constructive  criticism  helps  me
    improve and understand.  But the minute the match touches the can
    of  Sterno,  forget it.   I'll take  my criticism like I take  my
    pizza...room temperature.

    So  I've decided not to respond to flames.   Now all I need to do
    is  be  a little more careful about starting them  in  the  first
    place.   My apologies to Dale...he's obviously a nice guy.  After
    all, my column's in print, isn't it?

    See you again in another couple weeks.


    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 29                   8 Feb 1988


    =================================================================
                                 WANTED
    =================================================================

                            -- VIRUS QUERY --

    Reporter writing  an article  for the  NY Times  on the threat of
    "virus'  ("mole,)  "worm"  and/or  trojan  horse   "attack  code"
    programs  seeks  reports  of  real  experiences  with these often
    distructive, sometimes playful, devices.  I'm  interested  in any
    reports about incidents involving PCs, minis or micros.

    Please forward  replies to Vin  McLellan at Fido 101/154, (voice)
    617-426-2487, or Snail
    : 125 Kingston St., Boston, Ma. 02111.

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 30                   8 Feb 1988


    TRW Real Estate Information Systems, in Anaheim, CA is seeking a
    creative Senior Programmer/Analyst to aid in the analysis,
    design and implementation of a new generation of micro/mainframe
    systems running in an IBM PC-AT compatible multitasking
    environment.

    We are looking for motivated, independent thinker with a minimum
    of two years MS-DOS micro programming in C or Macro Assembler
    and two years mini/mainframe programming.  Experience in
    structured development techniques and systems analysis/design
    required.  Familiarity with micro-mainframe communications,
    micro hardware, and networks is desirable.  Direct customer
    interface is common, so good written and oral communication
    skills are needed.

    Please forward your resume with work history and references to:
    TRW Real Estate Information Systems, Professional Employment,
    Dept. DL-101, 2000 S. Anaheim Blvd., Suite 100, Anaheim, CA
    92805.  An equal opportunity employer.

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 31                   8 Feb 1988


    =================================================================
                                 NOTICES
    =================================================================

    5 March 1988
    The Area Code for Southern Colorado changes to 719.  Be sure to
    change your script files as necessary.

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

                         The Interrupt Stack


    19 Feb 1988
       Start  of  the  International  FidoNet  Associations  Board of
       Directors meeting in St. Louis. Meeting runs through the 21st.

    25 Aug 1988
       Start  of  the  Fifth  International FidoNet Conference, to be
       held  at the Drawbridge Inn  in Cincinnatti, OH.  Contact  Tim
       Sullivan at 108/62 for more information. This is FidoNet's big
       annual get-together, and is your chance to meet all the people
       you've  been talking with  all this time.  We're hoping to see
       you there!

    24 Aug 1989
       Voyager 2 passes Neptune.


    If you have something which you would like to see on this
    calendar, please send a message to FidoNet node 1:1/1.

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

                         Latest Software Versions

    BBS Systems            Node List              Other
    & Mailers   Version    Utilities   Version    Utilities   Version

    Dutchie        2.80*   EditNL          3.3    ARC            5.21
    Fido            12e*   MakeNL         1.10    ARCmail         1.1
    Opus          1.03a    Prune          1.40    ConfMail       3.31*
    SEAdog         4.10    XlatList       2.85*   EchoMail       1.31
    TBBS           2.0M                           MGM             1.1
    BinkleyTerm    1.30*

    * Recently changed

    Utility authors:  Please help  keep  this  list  up  to  date  by
    reporting  new  versions  to 1:1/1.  It is not our intent to list
    all utilities here, only those which verge on necessity.

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 32                   8 Feb 1988


                                     __
                The World's First   /  \
                   BBS Network     /|oo \
                   * FidoNet *    (_|  /_)
                                   _`@/_ \    _
                                  |     | \   \\
                                  | (*) |  \   ))
                     ______       |__U__| /  \//
                    / Fido \       _//|| _\   /
                   (________)     (_/(_|(____/ (tm)

           Membership for the International FidoNet Association

    Membership in IFNA is open to any individual or organization that
    pays  a  specified  annual   membership  fee.   IFNA  serves  the
    international  FidoNet-compatible  electronic  mail  community to
    increase worldwide communications.

    Member Name _______________________________  Date _______________
    Address _________________________________________________________
    City ____________________________________________________________
    State ________________________________  Zip _____________________
    Country _________________________________________________________
    Home Phone (Voice) ______________________________________________
    Work Phone (Voice) ______________________________________________
    Zone:Net/Node Number ____________________________________________
    BBS Name ________________________________________________________
    BBS Phone Number ________________________________________________
    Baud Rates Supported ____________________________________________
    Board Restrictions ______________________________________________
    Your Special Interests __________________________________________
    _________________________________________________________________
    _________________________________________________________________
    In what areas would you be willing to help in FidoNet? __________
    _________________________________________________________________
    _________________________________________________________________
    Send this membership form and a check or money order for $25 in
    US Funds to:
                  International FidoNet Association
                  c/o Leonard Mednick, MBA, CPA
                  700 Bishop Street, #1014
                  Honolulu, Hawaii 96813-4112
                  USA

    Thank you for your membership!  Your participation will  help  to
    insure the future of FidoNet.

    Please  NOTE  that  IFNA is a general not-for-profit organization
    and Articles of Association  and  By-Laws  were  adopted  by  the
    membership in January 1987.  The first elected Board of Directors
    was filled in August 1987.  The IFNA Echomail Conference has been
    established  on  FidoNet  to  assist  the Board.  We welcome your
    input to this Conference.

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    FidoNews 5-06                Page 33                   8 Feb 1988


                    INTERNATIONAL FIDONET ASSOCIATION
                                ORDER FORM

                               Publications

    The IFNA publications can be obtained by downloading from Fido
    1:1/10 or  other FidoNet compatible  systems, or by purchasing
    them directly from IFNA.  We ask that  all our  IFNA Committee
    Chairmen   provide  us   with  the  latest  versions  of  each
    publication, but we can make no written guarantees.

    Hardcopy prices as of October 1, 1986

       IFNA Fido BBS listing                       $15.00    _____
       IFNA Administrative Policy DOCs             $10.00    _____
       IFNA FidoNet Standards Committee DOCs       $10.00    _____

                                                 SUBTOTAL    _____

                     IFNA Member ONLY Special Offers

       System Enhancement Associates SEAdog        $60.00    _____
       SEAdog price as of March 1, 1987
       ONLY 1 copy SEAdog per IFNA Member

       Fido Software's Fido/FidoNet               $100.00    _____
       Fido/FidoNet price as of November 1, 1987
       ONLY 1 copy Fido/FidoNet per IFNA Member

       International orders include $10.00 for
              surface shipping or $20.00 for air shipping    _____

                                                 SUBTOTAL    _____

                   HI. Residents add 4.0 % Sales tax         _____

                                                 TOTAL       _____

       SEND CHECK OR MONEY ORDER IN US FUNDS:
       International FidoNet Association
       c/o Leonard Mednick, MBA, CPA
       700 Bishop Street, #1014
       Honolulu, HI.  96813-4112
       USA

    Name________________________________
    Zone:Net/Node____:____/____
    Company_____________________________
    Address_____________________________
    City____________________  State____________  Zip_____
    Voice Phone_________________________

    Signature___________________________

    -----------------------------------------------------------------