EDITORIAL PAGE

YEAR-END WRAP-UP

    Its always quiet this time of year as Comdex is concluded and IBM executives quietly disappear for the holidays. Consequently, there isn't much in the way of news to report, particularly in the area of OS/2. Nonetheless, there are a few loose ends that have to be tied up for 2002:

    IBM

    The biggest news from Big Blue's new chief, Sam Palmisano, is On-Demand Computing which he is using as his first rallying cry for his troops and customers. Basically, he's touting a public utility-like service that allows companies to tap into computing services as required. An important aspect to this announcement is IBM's continued support for open standards, e.g., Java and other Internet/programming standards, etc., something Microsoft continues to balk at. But if you look beyond Sam's hyperbole, I think the announcement is simply much ado about nothing. Nonetheless, it comes at a time when the sleeping giant desperately needs some attention from the press.

    MICROSOFT

    In California, Judge Kollar-Kotelly ruled in favor of the U.S. Government's proposed settlement in the Microsoft antitrust case. For OS/2 users who have followed the case and seen M$ in action, the Judge's decision can best be described as "laughable." Basically, the government's settlement amounts to a slap on the wrist. Fortunately, Microsoft will probably not get off as easily in the European Union's version of the case.

    WARPSTOCK

    It is too soon to report on the outcome of Warpstock Europe held November 8-10 in Arnham, the Netherlands. Hopefully, it was more successful than the Allied troops who tried to liberate Arnham during World War II.

    Closer to home, there seemed to be some minor bickering over the last Warpstock held in Austin last October. It seems there was some quibbling over the venue and future direction of the OS/2 user conference. Such bickering should be put aside and users should thank God that such a conference even exits. Organizers of the event are now accepting bids for 2003. If you had a problem with the last conference, now is an opportune time to get involved planning the next one. Put up or shut up.

    PEACE ON EARTH, GOOD WILL TOWARDS MAN

    Even though the U.S. elections are behind us, the prospect of war with Iraq and the threat of terrorism hangs over us, as does a sluggish economy. As we approach the holidays, let us give thanks for the peace and prosperity we have, what little there might be. This season, regardless of our political ideologue or religious inclination, let us meet, act, and part upon the level.

    Long ago, I had a friend teach me the virtue of a simple handshake. Its not enough to simply shake a person's hand, but its also important to look the person square in the eye and let him/her know that you are glad to see that person. Its a simple but effective gesture. Try it this season.

    Best wishes for the holidays!

   

- Tim Bryce
Editor, OS/2 CONNECT

Please do not hesitate to send me an e-mail