Category: Meeting Notices

72 Days until the 34rd Annual “Last” CoCoFEST!

I hope you’ve all read CoCoFEST! Coordinator Grant Leighty’s announcement that tables for our 2026 show will be up for purchase on February 15, but if not, be sure to stop over to our registration page that afternoon to grab your table(s). Prices are unchanged from last year, and we’re once again enjoying a Friday/Saturday show, with teardown on Sunday, to help those needing some extra time to get back home for work the next day (or just to rest after what will undoubtedly be a fast paced event.

I’ve been remiss, but I appreciate Mark Overholser’s assistance in emceeing the Tandy Retro Show 2026 a few weeks ago. Thanks also to all of our Saturday presenters and their material. We appreciate you sharing your projects with us

Please join us this Thursday. As is standard, We will open the call a bit early at 7PM for some discussion and to help anyone with “technical difficulties”.

To join the Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82797367585?pwd=OUxibkJaR2N1SUtSOU9EUUlYeXBJQT09

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: GCCC

One tap mobile

+13126266799,,82797367585#,,,,*686821# (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: 686821
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdIAqFZbZR

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.
Monthly: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/tZYqfu6rqDwvEtGPAHF62Rhv1v5lakjdaO9W/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGqqTItGdKStRGCRpwQB4r4KOnwpmZYj7d6rD7NJXYBUAvgZ_QXPrN0GtzR

For those unable to join us on Zoom or have prior commitments, we will livestream and have a replay available on our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFk2dMxcjJcX2qbSqFHQMbA).

Tandy Color Computer in the Year 2026!

Last year, we celebrated the 45th anniversary fo the Tandy Radio Shack Color Computer 1, and this year is the 40th anniversary of the Color Computer 3. With the Tandy Model 6000 cake appearing at last year’s Tandy Assembly, it might be interesting for a CoCo 3 cake (should be easier to make, I think) for the 34th Annual “Last” Chicago CoCoFEST in April, 2026. Regardless of how we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the last Color Computer model, I hope you’re still enjoying yours!

In two weeks, GCCC (in collaboration with The CoCo Nation) will present Tandy Retro Show 2026, and we’ll provide updates on the show at this month’s meeting. As well, CoCoFEST! coordinator Grant Leighty has alerted me that tables for this year’s show will go on sale on February 15. First come, first served, and you’ll need to pre-pay for the tables this year, to help everyone get a chance to attend and exhibit/sell.

To join the Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82797367585?pwd=OUxibkJaR2N1SUtSOU9EUUlYeXBJQT09

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: GCCC

One tap mobile

+13126266799,,82797367585#,,,,*686821# (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: 686821
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdIAqFZbZR

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.
Monthly: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/tZYqfu6rqDwvEtGPAHF62Rhv1v5lakjdaO9W/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGqqTItGdKStRGCRpwQB4r4KOnwpmZYj7d6rD7NJXYBUAvgZ_QXPrN0GtzR

For those unable to join us on Zoom or have prior commitments, we will livestream and have a replay available on our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFk2dMxcjJcX2qbSqFHQMbA).

Goodbye, 2025, Hello CoCo 3 40th Anniversary

2026 marks the 40th anniversary of the TANDY Color Computer 3 (announced July 30th, 1986). Thus, as we bid 2025 a fond farewell, I wonder what’s in store for one of the last major 8-bit systems to be introduced into the marketplace as it turns 40 in 2026. I’m excited to see what kinds of cool insights, software, and hardware will accompany this upcoming birthday.

Show runner Mark Overholser is working on the presentation schedule for Tandy Retro Show 2026 (tandyretroshow.com) for January 24th (and 25th, if presentations permit), but there’s still time for yours. With the turn into 2026, we’ll also be working to open up table reservations for CoCoFEST!

Stop by and join us this Thursday. We will open the call a bit early at 7PM for some discussion and to help anyone with “technical difficulties”.

To join the Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82797367585?pwd=OUxibkJaR2N1SUtSOU9EUUlYeXBJQT09

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: GCCC

One tap mobile

+13126266799,,82797367585#,,,,*686821# (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: 686821
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdIAqFZbZR

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.
Monthly: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/tZYqfu6rqDwvEtGPAHF62Rhv1v5lakjdaO9W/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGqqTItGdKStRGCRpwQB4r4KOnwpmZYj7d6rD7NJXYBUAvgZ_QXPrN0GtzR

For those unable to join us on Zoom or have prior commitments, we will livestream and have a replay available on our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/290791956162) and our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFk2dMxcjJcX2qbSqFHQMbA).

Alternative Timeline

As we prepare for a time of giving thanks in the USA and Canada, has anyone considered where they might be if they had not gotten a home computer in the 1970’s/80’s? Would you have the career you enjoy/enjoyed? Would your friends be the same? What would you be doing now? I, for one, am thankful I joined the computer revolution in the 1980’s. What started as a rejection from my parents to buying an Atari 2600 from SEARS and guidance to instead buy a home computer morphed into a successful 32 year career in IT, a bit of fame, a side business selling home computer peripherals, and tons of friendships across the world. I’m thankful home computers gave me all of that and continues to provide.

Shows are winding down for the year, though I will be attending the World of Commodore (contrary to the name, other platforms are welcomed, and some of the CoCo Crowd will be in attendance) in December. If you’re in the Greater Toronto area, stop by. After that, it’s onto 2026 and our own (co-hosted with The CoCo Nation) Tandy Retro Show 2026 (tandyretroshow.com) for January 24th (and 25th, if presentations permit). Presentations are trickling in, but time is running out. If you’re ready to show off a new project, not sure you’ll be able to attend a physical show in 2026, or your project is too bulky or unwieldy (or fragile) to move, TRS-2026 is a great opportunity to let the world know about it.

Stop by and join us this Thursday. We will open the call a bit early at 7PM for some discussion and to help anyone with “technical difficulties”.

To join the Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82797367585?pwd=OUxibkJaR2N1SUtSOU9EUUlYeXBJQT09

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: GCCC

One tap mobile

+13126266799,,82797367585#,,,,*686821# (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: 686821
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdIAqFZbZR

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.
Monthly: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/tZYqfu6rqDwvEtGPAHF62Rhv1v5lakjdaO9W/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGqqTItGdKStRGCRpwQB4r4KOnwpmZYj7d6rD7NJXYBUAvgZ_QXPrN0GtzR

For those unable to join us on Zoom or have prior commitments, we will livestream and have a replay available on our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/290791956162) and our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFk2dMxcjJcX2qbSqFHQMbA).

CoCo “Candy”!

This Halloween, are you craving some CoCo “candy”? Maybe you’ve been perusing eBay/Craigslist/Facebook Marketplace for something you don’t “need” but always wanted “back in the day” or maybe just a guilty pleasure. I say treat yourself, if the price is right. Obviously, buyer beware of the tricks some seller might play, but at least my experience has been good overall. That said, don’t over-indulge. A few eBay purchases or a FB Marketplace transaction is fine, but moderation is key!

It’s not a CoCo thing (though it is Tandy), but recently John Swiderski announced a text-based Tetris clone called “Tet-TRS” for the Tandy Model II/12/16/6000, and I bought a copy (first piece of software I’ve ever purchased that came on a 8″ diskette!) My gaming time is extremely limited, but Tetris is a favorite and I love having a cool game for a decidedly business computer. And, I loved the name.

As with a number of CoCo folks, I’m back from two back to back computer shows in September and slowly catching up. Physical shows are winding down (though I know some CoCo folks will be in Toronto in December for a show), but GCCC and The CoCo Nation are planning Tandy Retro Show 2026 (tandyretroshow.com) for January 24th (and 25th, if presentations permit). If you’re ready to show off a new project, not sure you’ll be able to attend a physical show in 2026, or your project is too bulky or unwieldy (or fragile) to move, TRS-2026 is a great opportunity to let the world know about it.

It’s a light agenda this month, but we’re always glad to see familiar faces on Zoom, so please join us this Thursday. We will open the call a bit early at 7PM for some discussion and to help anyone with “technical difficulties”.

To join the Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82797367585?pwd=OUxibkJaR2N1SUtSOU9EUUlYeXBJQT09

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: GCCC

One tap mobile

+13126266799,,82797367585#,,,,*686821# (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: 686821
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdIAqFZbZR

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.
Monthly: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/tZYqfu6rqDwvEtGPAHF62Rhv1v5lakjdaO9W/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGqqTItGdKStRGCRpwQB4r4KOnwpmZYj7d6rD7NJXYBUAvgZ_QXPrN0GtzR

For those unable to join us on Zoom or have prior commitments, we will livestream and have a replay available on our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/290791956162) and our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFk2dMxcjJcX2qbSqFHQMbA).

Fall for your CoCo!

I’m tardy getting this out because I’ve been preparing for what I think is the largest inclusive classic computing festival in the US, if not the globe: VCF Midwest. Last year, 50,000 sq ft of space was packed with just about every classic machine (even minicomputers and terminals) I’ve ever seen (and some I had not ever seen. This year, the space has been expanded to 66,000 sq ft. Like last year, Glenside and its members will represent the CoCo (and cousins and friends) at the show, and we’d love to see you join us there. It’s at the Renaissance Schaumburg. In any case, I’ll apologize in advance because I’ll probably join the meeting from the show floor (I offered my help as a Thursday night volunteer) or on the road headed to the show.

You’re probably aware, but if not, September is officer nomination month, this time for the 2025-26 officer term. Though the work is not significant, the club depends on its members to help ensure it runs smoothly. Please consider helping us out.

Please join us this Thursday. We will open the call a bit early at 7PM for some discussion and to help anyone with “technical difficulties”.

To join the Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82797367585?pwd=OUxibkJaR2N1SUtSOU9EUUlYeXBJQT09

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: GCCC

One tap mobile

+13126266799,,82797367585#,,,,*686821# (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: 686821
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdIAqFZbZR

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.
Monthly: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/tZYqfu6rqDwvEtGPAHF62Rhv1v5lakjdaO9W/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGqqTItGdKStRGCRpwQB4r4KOnwpmZYj7d6rD7NJXYBUAvgZ_QXPrN0GtzR

For those unable to join us on Zoom or have prior commitments, we will livestream and have a replay available on our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/290791956162) and our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFk2dMxcjJcX2qbSqFHQMbA).

I hope you had the Summer you were wanting, whether it was packed full of events and trips, or laid back and quiet. For those who chose the quiet option, enjoy it for a few more weeks, as things are kicking up for Fall.

Glenside will once again be participating in the largest (as far as I know) classic computer festival, Vintage Computer Festival – Midwest, or VCF-MW (https://vcfmw.org/). While not a Color Computer specific show, the entire Tandy line was represented in 2024, and I expect the same this year. Last year’s show comprised 50,000 sq ft of classic computer (and telephone) awesomeness, and this year’s show will fill the expanded 66,000 sq ft space. For those that attended last year, expect more of the same. I know, as GCCC President, it may seem heretical for me to champion another show, but this is less a classic computer show and more a treatise on how much interest in classic computer still exists, across the brands.

Just a few weeks later, Tandy Assembly (https://www.tandyassembly.com/) touches down in Springfield, OH. Representing Glenside, show co-organizer Ian Mavric asked if I could present at the show, so I’ll be sharing some technical details on the CC3 MMU.

Mark Overholser just pointed out in Facebook that he’s starting to plan Tandy Retro Show 2026. Thus, if you have a project that you want to get in front of folks and it won’t materialize for VCF-MW or TA, TRS 2026 is your next best time to share. And, TRS2026 is not CoCo specific, so we welcome all Tandy options.

Finally, I realize I’ve not shared the confirmed date for the 34th Annual LAST Chicago CoCoFEST!, which is April 24 and 25, 2026. More details to follow.

Please join us this Thursday. As is standard, We will open the call a bit early at 7PM for some discussion and to help anyone with “technical difficulties”.

To join the Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82797367585?pwd=OUxibkJaR2N1SUtSOU9EUUlYeXBJQT09

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: GCCC

One tap mobile

+13126266799,,82797367585#,,,,*686821# (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: 686821
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdIAqFZbZR

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.
Monthly: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/tZYqfu6rqDwvEtGPAHF62Rhv1v5lakjdaO9W/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGqqTItGdKStRGCRpwQB4r4KOnwpmZYj7d6rD7NJXYBUAvgZ_QXPrN0GtzR

For those unable to join us on Zoom or have prior commitments, we will livestream and have a replay available on our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFk2dMxcjJcX2qbSqFHQMbA). Recently, Facebook has made it harder to stream to their platform, but I’ll keep trying to stream to our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/290791956162).

Is it Retro-Brite time for your CoCo?

In the Midwest, at least, Summer comes with sunny days and what seems like copious amounts of humidity, neither of which is good for any computer, much less a ~40 year old CoCo. But, folks have sometimes taken their computer or MPI enclosure out in the Sun for a tan, sometimes plastered with some chemicals, sometimes now. Results vary, but some swear it lightens yellowed cases and brings back that new case look. I’d love to hear if anyone has tried it and gotten good results. I bought the chemicals years ago, but have never pulled the trigger.

But, even if retro-briting your CoCo is not on your Summer to do list, I still hope you’re enjoying the season and maybe getting in a bit of the hobby as well. On behalf of the club, we’re taking it easy over the Summer, though I do want to call out Grant Leighty, who should have our CoCoFEST 2026 dates locked in this week, and he negotiated some savings for next year’s show. Donations are coming in early, which will help with the 2026 show, so consider now if you have anything we can add to our No Minimum Bid Auction!

Please join us this Thursday. As is standard, We will open the call a bit early at 7PM for some discussion and to help anyone with “technical difficulties”.

To join the Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82797367585?pwd=OUxibkJaR2N1SUtSOU9EUUlYeXBJQT09

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: GCCC

One tap mobile

+13126266799,,82797367585#,,,,*686821# (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: 686821
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdIAqFZbZR

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.
Monthly: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/tZYqfu6rqDwvEtGPAHF62Rhv1v5lakjdaO9W/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGqqTItGdKStRGCRpwQB4r4KOnwpmZYj7d6rD7NJXYBUAvgZ_QXPrN0GtzR

For those unable to join us on Zoom or have prior commitments, we will livestream and have a replay available on our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFk2dMxcjJcX2qbSqFHQMbA). Recently, Facebook has made it harder to stream to their platform, but I’ll keep trying to stream to our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/290791956162).

The 33rd Annual “Last” Chicago CoCoFEST! is a wrap

It’s been a few days since the show, and I think we’re all finally recovered. The show is awesome, but it’s a lot of work, so forgive us being quiet for a few weeks. We appreciate all who attended (physically or virtually), exhibited, presented, or volunteered. It takes the entire community to make a great fest, and each of you helped. Thanks especially to Grant Leighty, who tirelessly worked behind the scenes to ensure we all enjoyed ourselves and things ran smoothly. If you missed a presentation or just want to rewatch, they have all been recorded and are available on our YouTube channel in a playlist. Enjoy!

It’s almost Summer, so I expect folks are leaving their CoCo caves and enjoying some of the impressive weather and travel. Remember to turn off your CoCo when you’re not using it, to preserve it for the Fall and Winter ahead. If you happen to be not outside and disconnected, Grant and I would love to hear about what went well and what we can improve as we gather ideas for the 2026 fest. I’m especially in more thoughts on the Friday-Saturday date switch. We’ll also go over the fest financials and answer any event-related questions.

Please join us this Thursday. As is standard, We will open the call a bit early at 7PM for some discussion and to help anyone with “technical difficulties”.

To join the Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82797367585?pwd=OUxibkJaR2N1SUtSOU9EUUlYeXBJQT09

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: GCCC

One tap mobile

+13126266799,,82797367585#,,,,*686821# (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: 686821
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdIAqFZbZR

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.
Monthly: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/tZYqfu6rqDwvEtGPAHF62Rhv1v5lakjdaO9W/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGqqTItGdKStRGCRpwQB4r4KOnwpmZYj7d6rD7NJXYBUAvgZ_QXPrN0GtzR

For those unable to join us on Zoom or have prior commitments, we will livestream and have a replay available on our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFk2dMxcjJcX2qbSqFHQMbA). Recently, Facebook has made it harder to stream to their platform, but I’ll keep trying to stream to our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/290791956162).

CoCoFEST! Final Planning

We’re within the 30 day mark now, and the main hall is completely sold out (Don’t worry, there are still some tables left in our overflow area as well as the hallway :-). I’m making a plea for someone to sign up for a table in the hallway to keep poor AJ from Forgotten Machines and his rolling exhibit table company, as we like AJ and don’t want him to be lonely!

This is our last virtual get together before we converge on the Carol Stream Holiday Inn, so bring any last minute questions or plans to our meeting. If you’re planning to attend in person, get registered at tandylist.com, so I know how you want your badge printed! And, if you’re an exhibitor or presenter, I hope you’re putting the finishing touches on your work. (nothing this comes from an avid procrastinator)

The show will double as our May meeting, as is customary, so we’ll be taking a break until our June meeting after the show. As I’ve said in past months, I hope to see you all at the show!

Please join us this Thursday. As is standard, We will open the call a bit early at 7PM for some discussion and to help anyone with “technical difficulties”.

To join the Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82797367585?pwd=OUxibkJaR2N1SUtSOU9EUUlYeXBJQT09

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: GCCC

One tap mobile

+13126266799,,82797367585#,,,,*686821# (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 827 9736 7585
Passcode: 686821
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdIAqFZbZR

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.
Monthly: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/tZYqfu6rqDwvEtGPAHF62Rhv1v5lakjdaO9W/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGqqTItGdKStRGCRpwQB4r4KOnwpmZYj7d6rD7NJXYBUAvgZ_QXPrN0GtzR

For those unable to join us on Zoom or have prior commitments, we will livestream and have a replay available on our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFk2dMxcjJcX2qbSqFHQMbA). Recently, Facebook has made it harder to stream to their platform, but I’ll keep trying to stream to our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/290791956162).