TUGNET - The User's Group Network, San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, Southern California

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Because of "technical difficulties" when we last advertised Fritzï's appearance, we had to call a halt with a plan to reschedule. Since then, there is a new version of the software and Fritz tells me their equipment has also been updated. So we are expecting a delightful time this week.

Many of you will remember when Fritz Coleman visited us way back in 2008. At that time he showed us how technology was aiding in the accuracy of weather forecasting. Technology has advanced in that field just as in everything else. He will be bringing us up to date and with all the recent weather-related events, he will have a lot to talk about and is willing to answer your questions.

While best known as the NBC weatherman for the past 30-plus years, we can forecast lots of laughs when Fritz shares his comments on "getting older might not be pretty, but it sure is funny!" Many think he is L.A.'s favorite weatherman and, in addition, is truly hilarious, and entertaining for everyone. If you weren't aware, he has a one-man stand-up comedy show which has been dubbed a "baby boomer support group." He is truly the epitome of growing old while doing what you love.

The second Tuesday of each month is our TUGNET board meeting. In case you aren’t aware of it, our board meetings are open to all members. So if there is something on your mind, an idea you’d like to introduce, or a gripe (gosh, I hope not), you are welcome to come share it with us.

We meet for dinner at 6:00 p.m., meeting begins at 7:00, in the conference room of the Horseless Carriage Restaurant, Galpin Ford, 15505 Roscoe Blvd., North Hills.

One of our favorite presenters has always been Louis Kaneshiro, Senior Technology Manager, SSD Product Engineering of Kingston. We have learned so much about Solid State Drive/Disk. He enabled us to understand that an SSD does much the same job functionally (e.g., saving your data while the system is off, booting your system, etc.) as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), but instead of a magnetic coating on top of platters, the data is stored on interconnected flash memory chips that retain the data even when there’s no power present.

You will remember he recommended formatting our SSD drives, which we call flash drives or jump drives, or maybe other names as well, every few years to preserve the integrity of the drive. They do have a finite life span and the formatting will extend that for more years. Of course, you are going to transfer your important data to another drive, then transfer it back.

As the world of technology keeps moving along and changing, I’m sure Louis will have lots to share with us, especially since Kingston is the largest independent maker of memory products. Did you know that flash drives selling with other brand names were manufactured by Kingston?

The above is just a tidbit of what he will be discussing. Louis will tell you more about this fine company. Many times his friend and co-worker, David Leong, has come along but I don’t know if he’s coming this time.

If you have any questions about SSD technology, this is the time to get them answered.

Plan on joining us! They have agreat selection of soups, salads, sandwiches and bakery items,

Here is your opportunity to help TUGNET while you enjoy a lovely, healthy meal with no preparation or clean-up. Really — what can be better than that?

Try to come as the number of guests is always an influence as to whether we can return.

Remember, this is the easiest way to help TUGNET’s financial needs since 20% percent of your meal total will be returned to us. So please plan to eat out!

From 4:00 to 8:00 our meals will apply toward fund raising. Be sure to bring our flyer or show it on your phone or other device to the cashier. They are generous with their donations from these fund-raising meals and have always sent a check for our share very promptly. Can you tell me an easier way to earn funds to support TUGNET? Please try hard to participate.

They are good about having us sit together and the waitress marks all our orders as "TUGNET." Most get there between 5 & 6 p.m.

If you have a favorite restaurant you’d like to have included in these plans, let Jefferson Kent know about it. His contact info is on page 3 of the monthly newsletter. He is happy to work with any location which welcomes groups. By the way, it is surprising how many restaurants are glad to participate in this sharing program. After all, this brings them customers who otherwise wouldn’t be there!

TUGNET is a nonprofit computer users group. TUGNET's mailing address for membership information, submissions to the TUGNET Newsletter, or other club-related material, is TUGNET, 3926 Community Ave., La Crescenta, CA 91214

Neither The Users' Group Network, its Board of Directors, officers, nor members make any express or implied warranties of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose. Opinions provided by newsletter articles, or by speakers, members or guests who address TUGNET meetings are individual opinions only, and do not represent the opinions of the organization, its board, officers, or members. All opinions and information should be carefully considered and neither The Users' Group Network, its directors, officers, nor members shall be liable for any incidental or consequential damages in connection with or arising from the furnishing or use of any information or opinions. Brands and products referenced herein are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.