I don't normally use this space to tout particular local businesses, and come to think of it, don't think I ever have. However, one local entrepreneur has come to my attention who definitely is worthy of mention – if for no other reason – his worthy cause.
His name is Bob Avery-Babel, owner of Yellow Bug Computers located in Columbia, Missouri. If you live in Jefferson City, you may have read his advertisements in the classified section of the newspaper touting low-cost Macintosh and PC systems.
Well, I've met Bob and actually been to his place of business, which at the moment just happens to be his small apartment. The day I was he had one room filled with lots of Macs, Mac parts and Mac accessories, as well as some PC equipment. Being a sucker for any Mac ever made, I bought several items, include a 17-inch AppleVision monitor and some other stuff.
Bob is a unique individual. He spends his days working at a PC-based communications company, but moonlights working on his first love, Macs, through Yellow Bug Computers. And his mission is noble: he buys and refurbishes Macs, then makes them available at low cost to first-time computer users and others who want to take a dip into computer technology. Pretty cool idea.
The flip of all this is that while Bob scourers through piles of Macs and PCs at various auctions looking for parts to rebuild computers, he comes up with lots of good stuff that Mac users can use. I'm talking about used monitors, keyboards, memory, drives and other parts that can cost much through mail order. If you have PC friends that need stuff, you can have them give Bob an email or call.
Bob has been to monthly appleJAC user's group meeting and said he would like to get to know our group better. I've encouraged him to do so and to visit us often.
So the next time you need some Mac stuff, give Bob a call. He may not have what you want at the moment, but he'll sure be on the lookout for you – which will benefit your pocketbook if you can wait. Yellow Bug Computers is located at www.yellowbugcomputers.com.
I'll Miss New York and MacWorld
This column is being written prior to July's MacWorld in New York, so I won't be commenting on what happened, however, I must admit I'm missing not being at The Big Show in the Big Apple.
Last year saw the introduction of the Cube, new displays, new keyboard and a mouse. Who knows what this year's offerings will be, but if you believe the various Mac news sites, not much is expected.
But that's not what I want to point out about MacWorld. Whether it's San Francisco in January or New York in July, if you ever get the chance to go to The Big Show, do it! There's the obvious attraction of a major Mac expo, but what's more the overall atmosphere you'll experience being around thousands of people who love and support arguably the best computing platform ever.
You'll see people like David Pouge walking the show floor, hundreds of product demonstrations designed to showcase the advantages of the Mac OS, and if you're lucky, Steve Jobs at the keynote or on the show floor.
While I could not make it this year, I'm already making plans to vacation either in San Fran or The Big Apple in 2002 – during MacWorld, of course. If you love the Mac, I'd suggest that you do the same.