From: Bob Stout 

On 8 Nov 2003 Charles.Angelich!1.106.2000.0{at}filegate.net wrote:

> I had always viewed the C_ECHO as the reward after a bit of a 'test' to
> see who could wade through all the protocols and disappearing BBS then
> get a workable offline reader and _use_ it. Seemed to eliminate those
> who really didn't care and just had nothing better to do than state an
> opinion about something they knew next to nothing about. I am referring
> to the 'C' language here in particular.

Objectively, programming languages, like networking details, are tools to
achieve a goal. Inevitably, some people are just as interested in the tools
as the goal itself. I split the camp... I enjoy developing the tools and
components, but have little interest in the details of the networking
involved. So, too, with discussions of C programming. We're all here
because we share an interest in C programming. What's different is that
many of those left in FidoNet also have an interest in tinkering with the
mechanics of networking as well, while many using the Internet are simply
interested in transparent, reliable communication.

> Now that Janis, Jon, and Bob have managed to make access available to
> the lowest on the food chain I am teaching my cat to use the function
> keys to post in the C_ECHO. She may as well have equal access along with
> the others, she isn't at the very _bottom_ of the food chain (think
> that's the amoeba?). Do we have a access point for the amoeba yet? If
> not Janis, Jon, and Bob can probably come up with something.

Characterizing the Internet community as "the lowest on the food
chain" is patently unfair. There are C programmers using the Internet
who are clearly more talented than both of us together.

> At present kitty can use:
>
> F1 - "I don't know the answer to that, I only program in JAVA"
> F2 - "I don't know the answer to that, I prefer to use C++"
> F3 - "I used to know that, haven't gotten into it in a long time."
> F4 - "What's a pointer?"
> F5 - "Looks good but is it ANSI/POSIX?"
> F6 - "Yup, me too."
> F7 - "This is a Linux question but thought I'd ask it here."

The moderation policy of the C mailing list is, in most respects, virtually
identical as that for the C_Echo, so the occurrences should be comparable.

> Congratulations Bob, you've come to the inevitable end of a long
> journey. Rather than fish for individual 'snippets' just cast a bigger
> net and scoop up the entire echo. I applaud your innovation, you've
> grown over the years into an impressive force within cyberspace.

This isn't about collecting code for SNIPPETS, it's about extending the
life and usefulness of the C_Echo by expanding its user base to a larger
audience. If we can wind up with as many active participants as during the
best Fido years, then I'll have accomplished my goal. The collection of
SNIPPETS is only a fringe benefit of a robust online community.

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