Our November 18^th program was different and unique. The presenter was Isaac Waller from Character First. On first impression, you wonder what Character has to do with PC computing. But if you think about it, just because you access the faceless Net does not mean that you have to lack character. Character First’s definition of character is “the qualities built into an individual’s life that determine his or her response, regardless of circumstances”. So being a netizen does not mean that you can forgo character in your access to the Internet. I believe that was the point that Isaac made in his presentation.

Character First’s mission is to develop character in the workplace, but character building in their minds does not end there. Isaac showed us the many facets of character. In his view, works, like a diamond, has many facets and each facet’s brilliance contributes to the value of the jewel. As imperfections are identified and cut away or improved, the whole diamond becomes more beautiful. To apply this to our PC usage, think in terms of how we are bombarded with SPAM and hackers who feel that the internet is their personal playground. These folks pollute our e-mail and Web browsers with no regard of the circumstance or inconvenience.

Isaac made many good points as to how we can influence others by placing emphasis on the good character by simply heightening awareness. The more you think in terms of good character qualities, the easier it becomes to make the qualities a part of your life. Next is to require good character by raising the standards of good character and lowering acceptance of bad behavior -- actions that illustrate or convey good character by our words and attitudes. Lastly, recognize good character in others and praise them for it.

I believe everyone benefited from this enlightened presentation. Troy Segler, our Vice President of Programming should be commended for his bringing this program to us. To some it might have been a stretch, but given the fact that millions of people access the Internet on a daily basis, a reminder that we do so with character is not a bad thing.

Our winners for the evening were:

Sharon Barton - Membership	Don Taylor            Microsoft Publisher 2002