I think (well, I hope) it'll only be a matter of time before they begin
shipping more GNU/Linux systems than Windos ones. It'll take a while before
PC's for Kids is used to GNU/Linux and the open source philosophy. They
cannot distribute a Windos PC without a certificate, and these would be in
short supply. They already give StarOffice, which is available for GNU/Linux
as well. Hopefully children will become aware about the technical and
usability edge that GNU/Linux offers and they will opt for that instead.
On Thu, 9 Aug 2001 00:12, Charlie Oriez wrote:
> interesting. note the sixth paragraph. it would be nice if they mentioned
> linux a little sooner.
>
> ---------- Look what the cat dragged in: ----------
> Subject: Latest press Pc's for Kids Inc
> Date: Wed, 8 Aug 2001 22:04:10 +1000
> From: "Pc's for Kids Inc" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: "Charlie Oriez" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>
>
> WINDOW OF HOPE FOR "KIDS"
>
> Australian charity Pc's for Kids, which is the focus of International
> awareness was forced to suspend operations because of actions by Microsoft
> Legal department, has started building the first of many computers destined
> for underprivileged kids.
>
> Mr. Bayes issued a statement saying; "Our kids need us, the International
> public and Australians vowed us to continue our work assisting Children
> Bridge the Digital Divide. Our members voted to take a stand for the
> advancement of kids and not let this issue with Microsoft dampen many a
> child's dream of obtaining their own computer.
>
> Microsoft and Pc's for Kids become the focus of worldwide attention when
> the Software giant told the charity not to use its software unless it is
> legal. The standoff lasting well over a month has raised many questions of
> the philanthropic efforts of Microsoft's Co-Founder Mr. William Gates and
> Microsoft intentions of not granting a simple "Refurbishment License" to
> the charity.
>
> "Lets face it Microsoft, if you do not support the old redundant software
> of Dos 6.22 and Win 3.11 together with Windows 95 then why not make it
> "Public Domain" so the older computer equipment can be used. You state that
> kids need the latest technology but what happens to the tons of waste "IT"
> equipment - send it to landfill" Mr. Bayes said.
>
> Pc's for Kids Inc, which is based in Geelong Victoria Australia will ship
> the first of 50 refurbished machines to children next week, thanks to the
> generosity of the IT public who have scrounged around to locate their old
> Win 95 certificates. "We will give each system Windows 95 and load a full
> version of Sun Micro-Systems "Star Office" which was donated by Sun to pass
> onto our less fortunate children" Bayes stated.
>
> Mr. Bayes also is pleased at the support offered by the Linux community,
> "We have just completed training with Linux in Melbourne and are looking at
> offering children the choice of both. The learning of Linux will take some
> time to perfect so in the meantime we will keep sending out systems with
> donated Windows, Apple has issued a letter supporting our efforts and fully
> agree that children need assistance with any means of computer technology,
> we will be sending to Tonga another 20 refurbished Apple units early next
> month"
>
> Mr. Bayes is now appealing to the public and IT sector to keep the dream
> alive by locating the old software so this charity can continue it works.
> "We need over 1,000 copies for the next 12-months so please dig deep and
> help us place a smile on a child's face - Remember your old systems and
> software will assist our disadvantaged kids all over the world" Mr. Bayes
> said.
>
> Visit Pc's for Kid's www.pcsforkids.org and post an email with your pledge.
>
> Press Release Issued By:
> Colin Bayes President / Founder (0402) 149719 (24-Hours Contact)
>
> Pc's for Kids Inc Ph: 61 (3) 52444146 Fax: 61 (3) 52436026
> [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> http://www.pcsforkids.org Wednesday, August 08, 2001
>
> -------------------------------------------------------
>
> --
> -----------------------------------------------
> "Oh come now. At least pretend to be scared. The media spent millions
> trying to psyche you up for this" - User Friendly, 08/01/01 on the Code Red
> virus scare
--
Sridhar Dhanapalan.
"There are two major products that come from Berkeley:
LSD and UNIX. We don't believe this to be a coincidence."
-- Jeremy S. Anderson
