Club History
The Metro Area Personal Computer Club, (M.A.P.C.C.) was
originated in 1982 by a small group of computer enthusiasts who worked
with the new Radio Shack Color Computer. During that era, the Color
Computer was quite powerful and allowed the home user to get in on all the
fun. Of course, things have progressed rapidly over the years and todays
computers are quite different from the very simple, basic, Color Computer.
Since the eighties, the MAPCC had one of the longest running 24/7
BBS operations, with well over 100 registered members. A BBS, (Bulletin
Board System), was a forerunner to present day Internet chat room type
activity, long before the Internet was available to the home user. Members
could leave messages, comments etc. for other members and read replies to
their comments. The "Good Old Days?"
We were prominent in several annual Science Fairs and were regularly
part of the action at the McMillan Jr. High School "Computer Fair" in
Omaha, with usually two booths set up. We introduced the first voice
activated computer program, called "E.A.R.S." long before such a program
was available for many other computers.
The Club has held many special events over the years including group
campouts, summer and fall picnics, Pot Luck Christmas parties and a fun
event we all look forward to, aptly called "Action Auction",
an event where a variety of any items, not just computer items, are
donated, then all the proceeds go into our club treasury to help support
the club activities and expenses. We donate to worthy causes annually at
Christmas time to those who are less fortunate than we are.
Club Goals
The main purpose of our group is simply to Pass It On, (the Club
Motto), - to share with fellow members what knowledge we can to help
and encourage their use of the home computer, be it with a particular
program, game or computer technique. There is always the new user who
often needs help and those in our group who are able, are happy to do what
they can to offer such help. It provides a great time monthly, for those
with a common interest to come together and enjoy the camaraderie and
learn more about their computer.
Meetings
Our meetings are held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month, except
December, (no meeting that month) because of Holidays. We meet at
Sapp Bros. APPLE BARREL restaurant (in their fully
equipped party room). Apple Barrel is located on So. 24th
st. in Council Bluffs, Ia.
Activities at each meeting
include conducting any necessary business during the first portion of the
meeting, including an opportunity for discussing problems you may be
experiencing. During the second half of the meeting a member or
guest offers a hands-on demonstration. For added
interest, a cash drawing is held at both the beginning and end of each
meeting.
Dues
During the early years of the club we voted to institute nominal annual
member dues. Dues are only $15.00 a year for individuals. Family dues,
(all those living under your roof), are only $20.00 annually.These fees
help support some of the club activities and expenses. Unlike most rising
costs these days, we have never raised the membership fees since
they were first implemented, in the early 80's! We publish a monthly
newsletter which is posted on this web site, as are important notices,
such as next meeting date, what the coming demo will be, and any current
notices.
Officers
We hold annual nominations, (usually at the April meeting), and vote
for officers during the May meeting. Elective offices are: President, Vice
President, Secretary and Treasurer.
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CLUB DISBANDED - JUNE 2022
At the June 2022 club meeting a nomination to disband the club was seconded and then voted
upon by the members present. The majority of the members present voted to disband the club.
Any items the club had were auctioned off and all club funds are to be divided up evenly and
distrubuted to the active members (primary active member for family accounts).
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