Callidog: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 9:56AM PST (-0800 GMT)

Students at Paracise Homeschool: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 10:00AM PST (-0800 GMT)
We think this chat with Congressman Capps is very cool, it is a great opportunity for our community to share their ideas. This is especially cool because it lets students like us say what they think the same way adults can.

Callidog: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 10:02AM PST (-0800 GMT)
so, who decided to get here early??

Students at Paradise Homeschool: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 10:18AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Ooops! We spelled that wrong, we're really from the PARADISE homeschool, not Paracise!

RAIN: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 10:42AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Don't worry so much about a couple of typos ... the point is to try and get your ideas across.

Students at Paradise Homeschool: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:01AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Ooops! We spelled that wrong, we're really from the PARADISE homeschool, not Paracise!

Callidog: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:25AM PST (-0800 GMT)
hi everyone!

valerie: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:29AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I am interested in learning if the NAtional Forest in PAradise canyon is willing to reverse the contract with the concession company - that only offers the NFS 9% of the revenue - and take advantage of the recent congressional legislation that oofers the NFS 80% of revenue ?

: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:34AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Hello Congressman Capps, This Robert Muller.I am delighted to participate in your programme.My question is this : President Clinton concluded his State of the Union message by urging that we use the next lOOO days as an opportunity to work together to build a better world.We don't have a moment to waste.How could this best be done by the USA?

SpaceCowboy: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:35AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Walter: Thank you so much for showing interest in the Team Endeavour project. It is already showing much future value promise. By the way we are ready, willing and able to ride the halls of Congress in or out of uniform, your choice... Onward and Upward^ Over and Out!

Callidog: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:35AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I dont think walter gets here until 11:45......

Bob Perry: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:38AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Mr. Capps, thanks for taking the time to speak to your constituents thourgh this medium. This gives all of us who are able to communicate through this medium instant access to our representatives. I don't know if you remember me but I was the Business manager at the Lincoln-Mercury dealership in Santa Barbara who did the paperwork for the ill fated Lincoln Continental...when you get on line I'll continue this conversation. Bob Perry

: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:38AM PST (-0800 GMT)
This Robert Muller again.I have suggested to President Clinton to request at the United Nations that all governments should prepare the celebration of that year as part of a world wide celebration. Could you support my proposal with President Climton and ask him to make this proposal @ this years UN General Assembly? ?

valerie: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:41AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Also, for reference, I consider the NFS and parks one of our most important national treasures, have lived adjacent to the forest and have personally witnessed the great mental health benefit that the forest provides for urban dwellers.

valerie: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:41AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I am interested in learning if the NAtional Forest in PAradise canyon is willing to reverse the contract with the concession company - that only offers the NFS 9% of the revenue - and take advantage of the recent congressional legislation that oofers the NFS 80% of revenue ?

Callidog: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:43AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Is Mr Capps here?

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:44AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Good afternoon, students at Paracise (whoops) School... A good question. We are working on the situation daily, and hope for a positive resolution. Key staff member Sharon Siegel is all over this one: telephone her at 730-1710.

SteveM: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:47AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Mr. Capps, .... After reading so much about the DNC and President Clinto possibly receiving illegal campaign contributions from the Red Chinese, I am interested in hearing your reasoning for vacationing in China after being elected to the House. Is there any connection?

SteveM: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:48AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Mr. Capps, .... After reading so much about the DNC and President Clinto possibly receiving illegal campaign contributions from the Red Chinese, I am interested in hearing your reasoning for vacationing in China after being elected to the House. Is there any connection?

valerie: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:48AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Also, for reference, I consider the NFS and parks one of our most important national treasures, have lived adjacent to the forest and have personally witnessed the great mental health benefit that the forest provides for urban dwellers.

Bob Perry: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:48AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Since the President, his adminstration, his wife, and the Democratic party have been under attack by the conservative wing of the Republician party, I believe that it is important that the Democratic leadership in the house and Senate, "take off the gloves" so to speak and fight for fair treatment. Not only does the President not deserve this kind of treatment, the Republicians have no respect for the office of the President as long as a democrat is occupying that office..the right wing has no problems in using these tactics...so should our side!!!

valerie: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:49AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Also, for reference, I consider the NFS and parks one of our most important national treasures, have lived adjacent to the forest and have personally witnessed the great mental health benefit that the forest provides for urban dwellers.

Ken Owen: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:49AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I think it's wonderful that you are doing this online chat! In what other ways can you use the Internet to stay in touch with and inform your constituents? Will you be developing a Web page?

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:49AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Robert....Thanks for your message, and for the reminder. I was present when the President made this declaration, and believe wholeheartedly. We live in an incredible time, with absence of major wars in Europe, treacherous civil wars, no doubt, but no Cold War, no Iron Curtain, and promising developments throughout the world. Maybe this is the time to work hard for the elimination of nuclear weapons, promotion of peace (through economic development) throughout the world.

: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:49AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Is Mr. Capps really here?

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:50AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I was in China in December, and have profound respect for the students there, who will be the leaders of that coun- try someday. Difficult to go into more detail at the moment, but this is a time of great opportunity!

valerie: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:51AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Also, for reference, I consider the NFS and parks one of our most important national treasures, have lived adjacent to the forest and have personally witnessed the great mental health benefit that the forest provides for urban dwellers.

Tsunami, grade 6, Paradise Homeschool: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:51AM PST (-0800 GMT)
What is the plan to clean up Arroyo Burro creek?

SteveM: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:51AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Mr. Capps, .... Did you take any contributions in any way related to the illegal contributions received by the DNC?

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:51AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Ken: Thanks for your query. Under Nels Henderson's direc- tion, we are working on an official Web page, which will make you proud. Thanks for your help in the past. We need it now too.

: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:51AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I JUST WANT TO SAY HI

: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:54AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Mr. Capps, where are you laocated right now?

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:54AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Send us more information on Arroyo Burro. It's in Sharon Siegel's neighborhood. We'll respond as soon as we know more. This is an example of the various levels of government working together.....

Callidog: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:54AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Hi walter! I was wondering what happened to your web page that you had on rain... It isn't there as far as I know...

: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:54AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Hi Walter, Barbara Gaughen here as you know I am working with Dr. Muller and we are completing 2000 Ideas to the year 2000 for a Better World. What is the best way to get this document to all of Congress and the White House Staff. Who knows there may be several they could implement right away. you are doing a great job so far and we will send you a copy of the First 500.

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:54AM PST (-0800 GMT)
No, absolutely, I took no illegal contribution money of any sort....

Callidog: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:55AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I worked on your campaign (Kids4Capps) and was also wondering if you are needing volunteers for anything nowadays

marcy: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:55AM PST (-0800 GMT)
The channel islands national marine sanctuary is a wonderful natural resource to preserve for future generations. The RAIN NEtwork is working with nthe Sanctuary to develop education and technology projects to promote preservation of this important resouorce. Please support the CINMS and RAIN efforts towards these goals !or

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:56AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Barbara. So pleased that you are Robert know each other. Give us copies of the report and we will insure that members of Congress receive it.

: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:56AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Walter - From your experience in academia I am sure you have an appreciation for the importance of free speech and access to information resources. What is your position on the Communications Decency Act recently challenged by the ACLU and other free speech organizations before the Supreme Court?

Hal Finney: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:56AM PST (-0800 GMT)
(Sorry, CDA question was from Hal Finney...)

Robert: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:57AM PST (-0800 GMT)
The talk today in congress for the use Federal Tax money on Education. When the Constitution of the USA does not delegate this responsibility to the Federal Government. As a matter of fact the 10th amendment states "The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people." --- I am not arguing against education what I question is how do YOU justify Federal Government continuing in the Education arena ?

Brad: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:57AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Mr. Capps... I understand your last campaign was one of the most expensive in the history of House elections. Are you supportive of campaign reform?

Aquila, grade 9, Paradise Homeschool: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:57AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Are there any current bills/laws/etc. that will encourage people to buy and use electric cars or other non-polluting types of vehicles? I will turn 16 next year, and I would be proud to learn to drive in a car which runs on an alternative, non-polluting power source.

SteveM: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:58AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Glad to hear it Mr. Capps, however, your strong ties to the White House and your vacation to China does appear rather suspicious under the circumstances that are now being reported, don't you think?

: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:58AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Yea from Barbara and Robert...As you know the 1000 day CountUP to the year 2000 is about to take place on 6 April. We would love a message from you to California and the whole world. What would you like us to say?

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:58AM PST (-0800 GMT)
We have opportunities for volunteers in the Congressional offices at virtually every time. Elizabeth Siegel works diligently on a regular basis. The opportunity is available for others too. Call 730-1710.

Patrick Johnson: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:59AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I am impressed with Robert Mueller's question however I would like to bring a local dimension to his concern. How can we enlist parents to teach ove and wisdom in their families and build stronger families under the auspices of public education?

marcy: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:59AM PST (-0800 GMT)
The channel islands national marine sanctuary is a wonderful natural resource to preserve for future generations. The RAIN NEtwork is working with nthe Sanctuary to develop education and technology projects to promote preservation of this important resouorce. Please support the CINMS and RAIN efforts towards these goals !or

Keith Weissglass - Kids4Capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 11:59AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Where is the new office located?

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:00AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Contrary to the position of President Clinton, I vigorously oppose the Communications Decency Act. There are some good features to the bill, but it is too restrictive, and is a violation of the First Amendment.

marcy: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:01AM PST (-0800 GMT)
The channel islands national marine sanctuary is a wonderful natural resource to preserve for future generations. The RAIN NEtwork is working with nthe Sanctuary to develop education and technology projects to promote preservation of this important resouorce. Please support the CINMS and RAIN efforts towards these goals !or

Hal Finney: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:02AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Very glad to hear it re CDA! Keep up the good work!

SteveM: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:02AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Do you have a current email address where your constituents can write you. I've searched the net to no avail.

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:02AM PST (-0800 GMT)
New congressional office in Santa Barbara is at l428 Chapala Street. In San Luis Obispo, the office is located at 1411 Marsh Street. The Santa Maria office will open soon in the Santa Maria Inn. In Washington, D.C. (please visit) we are located in the Longworth Building, Room 1118.

marcy: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:02AM PST (-0800 GMT)
The channel islands national marine sanctuary is a wonderful natural resource to preserve for future generations. The RAIN NEtwork is working with nthe Sanctuary to develop education and technology projects to promote preservation of this important resouorce. Please support the CINMS and RAIN efforts towards these goals !or

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:03AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Email address is walter.capps@mail.house.gov

Students from Paradise Homeschool: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:03AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Mr. Capps, we are so glad that you oppose the Communications Decency Act, it is definately a violation of our right to Free Speach!

SteveM: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:06AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Great, .... suggest you notify the Thomas page to make updates. Also, most local links, including those of the local democrat Party still list Ms. Seastrand as the email address for our local Representative.

marcy: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:06AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Can we have your support to host an electronic town forum in santa barabra and bring clinton/gore to participate ? we can wire the county courthouse for the event and do a great community forum. would you consider proposing such an event ?

Ken Owen: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:06AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I'll take care of that

Vijaya Jammalamadaka: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:07AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Dr. Capps- your response on CDA makes me so glad I vote for you. Along the lines of Aquila's question (we need more kids like him) how are supporting the new EPA air quality standards?

mesarat: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:07AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Where do you stand on prop.215? Do you think the Federal gov is over stepping it's authority in dealing with it?

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:08AM PST (-0800 GMT)
A question for everyone: At present 12% of the citizens of this country are on0line, and approximately 35% of the population (according to the information available to me) have and use computers. Now for the question: How do we expand and extend the reach of the new technology? No one favors raising taxes, and I certainly am on this side. But how do we fund the extension of this terrific and necessary new technology to those for whom it is not currently available?

Ken Owen: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:09AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Support projects like RAIN!

mesarat: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:10AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I think as the market expands, the costs will come down. We do need to stay apace with the technology in our school system.

Don Lubach: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:10AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Dr. Capps. You are doing a nice job on this chat. I think you're a natural because of how fast you can type. In fact, I recall that you have won a typing championship in your past. How many words per minute did you type when you won that? (sorry to ask such a heavyweight question). Don Lubach

SteveM: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:10AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Certainly not by having the Federal Government buying a new computer and internet connection for everyone. But encouraging local libraries to add the service may be an option.

Keith Weissglass - Kids4Capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:10AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I suggest an after-school programs where parents as well as their kids could use the school's computers

SpaceCowboy: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:10AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Walter: In concept, do you believe that the current proposal the Santa Maria Airport District has brought to the table is a good way Ranch Vandenberg can better serve its highest and best use?

Hal Finney: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:12AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Re extending access: Next year they are going to come out with Network Computers. These are low cost, easy to use computers designed for web browsing. They won't cost much more than TV's. People who can afford a TV will be able to afford an NC. Even the very poorest people manage to have a TV. If they want to be online they will be able to.

marcy: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:12AM PST (-0800 GMT)
so we know how best to pre-publisize these chats, will you all please note where you heard about this chat session / we want top see these happen on a regular basis, and will keep everyone posted as long as we know where you look for this information - news paper? rain's home page / a ;;istserv / or ?

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:12AM PST (-0800 GMT)
In 1996, when Prop 215 was on the ballot, I did an extensive inquiry, by consulting with pharmacists, physicians, and law enforcement personnel. As a consequence I was negative on 215, believing that there were better ways to deal with this situation. I know that this will displease some of you, with whom I am corresponding today. But I offer this background as an illustration of the way I like to do my work, that is, to be broadly consultative before making a decision. But when something becomes the law, I'm there to uphold the law.

Timothy: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:13AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I'm so glad to reveice a questions from Congressman Capps. We do have a serious problem in finding real ways to guarantee access to the Information Infrastructure to every citizen. What is needed is Community & Neighborhood level problem solving with an early focus on assigning modest tax requirements to the major National Telecommunications corporations such as MCI, ATT, Sprint, PacBell and such. They can indeed aford to allow a modest amount of revenue to guarantee that every citizen in every American Community will have access to the essential new technology that is the Internet. Citizen tax dollars built the first stages of the Internet, we now should expect to see the major corporations benefitting from that national Infrastructure put back some of the money in the communities they serve.

Patrick Johnson: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:13AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Dear Congressman, I am Patrick and my chat message had a typo I hope my typo didn't totally miscommunicate question involving love(not ove) and wisdom.

SteveM: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:14AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Has anyonne ever considered starting a local area IRC channel where area residents could log in, chat, and possibly have Mr. Capps pop in from time to time? Some communities do this now on Undernet and Dalnet etc.

sia: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:15AM PST (-0800 GMT)
How do you feel about the implications of the recent 'internet' connected group that was involved in the mass suicide in San Diego. Does it represnt mass culture, a negitive side of the collective culture that can come out via tools like the internet

mesarat: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:15AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Mr.Capps, do you have an email address?

Keith Weissglass - Kids4Capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:15AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I think local IRC would be a great idea!

Ken Owen: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:15AM PST (-0800 GMT)
On your question about expanding access to the Internet: The folks at RAIN have a proposal to provided access to area non-profits and to train them to develope Web pages using private grant money They can use your support.

sia: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:15AM PST (-0800 GMT)
How do you feel about the implications of the recent 'internet' connected group that was involved in the mass suicide in San Diego. Does it represnt mass culture, a negitive side of the collective culture that can come out via tools like the internet

Aquila, grade 9, Paradise Homeschool: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:15AM PST (-0800 GMT)
To support an effort to give more people access to the Internet it would be a good idea to make the large commercial Internet providers set up a fund to pay for it, and perhaps the money they put in this fund could go to non-profits like RAIN so that they can more easily help people who would otherwise have not been able to access the Internet.

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:15AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Don. Thanks for the query. When I was a high school student in Omaha, Nebraska -- at Benson High School -- I set the speed-typing record for the State of Nebraska, something like 96 words per minute on an old upright Underwood Typewriter. Subsequently, I hit 105 words per minute in a shorter test. The truth is that I was fearful that I would lose this ability through last May's Hwy. 154 auto collision, but, thank God, the fingers still work fine. Typing is like percussion work: everything is dependent on a good sense of rhythm. The same is true, Don, with respect to congressional work.

sia: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:17AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Congressman, do you feel teaching ethics and responsible use of communication technologies is essential today. Should we begin Internet training with courses in socially responsible communication before we go on to more technical areas?

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:17AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Our hope/intention is to do this chat once per month, from time to time, as opportunity exists, from the office in Washington, D.C.

Keith Weissglass - Kids4Capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:17AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Mr Capps, what will your web page address be when it is completed?

SteveM: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:17AM PST (-0800 GMT)
A local newgroup or forum where people could post their questions or comments would also be a plus.

marcy: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:18AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Re : walter's question about eliminating disaraity between info haves and have nots - RAIN offers the opnly free public access to the internet in this region on a walk-in, full access basis - plus we offer low income families - who can't yet own a computer - a $35 a year account to sit at our public stations to access their private email. most people are using the service to job hunt, locate health information and research topics. many are handiccapped, many are unemplyed. it is essential that this technology serve the people who need it most ... and many of those really can't afford the current technology. set top tv boxes will start changing that ... but they are dumb terminals that do not support the same information publishing a computer does remember. lets all support NON-PROFIT community networking ...

SteveM: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:20AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Sounds great, Rain. However, I have been on the net for almost a year now, .... do newsgroups, IRC, etc, but had never heard of your service before today. Suggest future chat sessions etc be better publicized.

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:22AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I agree that responsible, ethical use of communication technologies is called for, particularly if we are going to stay with free-speech incentives and not enjoin censorship. The Rancho Santa Fe, Heaven's Gate, debacle is a genuine tragedy. But the connection to the Internet is largely incidental. The larger issue is how powerful belief systems turn out to be. Congratulations to the Religious Studies Department at UCSB for the excellent interpretation of the event my colleagues have given to people and media throughout the country. P.S. The UCSB Religious Studies Department is really the best one in the country.

Aquila, grade 9, Paradise Homeschool: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:22AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Mr. Capps, I'm really sorry to pester you, but you never answered my question: are there any current bills/laws/etc. which encourage people to buy vehicles which use an alternative, non-polluting power source?

Vijaya Jammalamadaka: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:23AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Thanks to RAIN Leadership Santa Barbara County (a nonprofit local educational organization) is online. Dr, capps you are invited to our annual fundraiser BBQ on April 26 at high noon. Please let us know if you can come.

Keith: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:24AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Mr. Capps, do you know who your opponents will be in your re-election campaign?

Hal Finney: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:24AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I think a lot of this Internet hysteria is being drummed up by old media like TV and print which are afraid of the competition from the Internet. They are trying to make people afraid of it in order to protect their own profits. Just my POV...

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:24AM PST (-0800 GMT)
The House Information Service decides this. But email Nels Henderson and he'll send out an announcement. Nels' email number is: nels.henderson@mail.house.gov

SteveM: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:25AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Smog II, .... it is the EPA's attempt to send us all into the dark ages. Force everyone to buy new cars every other no matter what the cost to the working man.

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:25AM PST (-0800 GMT)
No, I don't know who the opponents will be. But my concentration is on doing a good job with the responsibility/privilege that has been entrusted to me.

marcy: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:26AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Public Access Internet / Public Access Television / Public Access Radio - these are critically important public interest services that fill and need that will never be met by commercial broadcasters. The national community needs to understand the value of the educational programs and universal access that these technologies are providing our nation. to this end, RAIN is building a partnership to promote public internet/television/radio devleopment through the rain community technology center at 1129 state. feel free to drop by and learn more about rain's efforts. so much technology is _already_ available to our communties, but the citizens just aren't yet aware of what many non-profits are struggling to keep available in their best intersts - Congressman - we need your support in washington to bring funding down to the community level to keep these programs alive !!

Keith: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:27AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Did you participate in the house of reps. retreat? I heard about it on the news... If you did, what was it like and did it accomplish anything?

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:28AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Frankly, I don't know of pending legislation on this matter. But we will look into it further, for such legislation certainly makes good sense. You might also look at the Hosue of Representatives Web Page: button

Arts & Technology Workshop: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:30AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Dear Mr. Capps, I'd like to bring your attention to a grass-roots program here in SB. The Arts & Technology Workshop, established in 1989, conducts extracurricular courses in conjunction with the County Ed Office, UCSB, and the SB High School District. Community supporters of the Workshop currently include RAIN, the County Arts Commission, SB Foundation, and the California Arts Council. We have an interesting group of eager students ranging from Mexican immigrants to the sons and daughters of Santa Barbara*s high-tech industry leaders. Several of our program alumni have graduated into jobs as artists, designers, and system administrators as well as internships with local companies such as MetaTools. Others stay with us, contributing to community service projects and helping teach those who follow. It seems that we have been successful, at it's modest level, in addressing several of the needs one repeatedly reads about in the papers: literacy development, tech training, access for the at-risk and the underrepresented. Our program has a life of it's own, driven for 8 years now by student demand. But, as do many non-profit grass-roots efforts, the program limps along administratively from mini-grant to mini-grant. Perhaps one of your staff could contact us to recommend ways to develop some long-term support? Thanks, Carl Demangate Director, Arts & Technology Workshop cdem@rain.org www.rain.org/~artworks

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:30AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Keith: I was present in Hershey, Pennsylvania for the retreat of House members. It was a fantastic experience: congresspersons from both sides of the aisle urging greater civility and bipartisan cooperation. The temper of the meeting was positively affected by the presence of spouses and family members. At the conclusion, I was selected to report out to the nation about the meeting via NPR's "All Things Considered" program.

Julius: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:31AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I think the issue of censorship on the Internet is off the mark. The issue should be how to create some form of resposibility in using the net. I think the anonimity the net offers is really the problem. When people don't have to own their utterances they say strange things. If required to identify the source of information community pressure has some impact. sorry in advance for sp errors and poor typing skills.

marcy: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:31AM PST (-0800 GMT)
rain willl be brining alternative energy vehicles to the santa barbara earth day festival under the rain smart technology pavilion - stop by and see some remarkable electric and natural gas vehicles - solar energy - electric bikes - software - online programs and more ! de la guerra plaza, sunday april 20th, 10 am - 5 pm. Smart Village awards will be presented to Easy Lift Transporation and The Santa BArbara County Law Library - plus we are hosting the first annual Children's Procession celebrating the wonderful little hands who hold the world's future.

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:32AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Carl: Thanks for the information on the Arts and Technology workshop. It sounds like a very positive program. In our office, Nels Henderson carries responsibility for securing appropriate grant support. Please contact him c/o 730-1710.

Keith: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:33AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Do you know what day you were on NPR? I would like to find it in the NPR RealAudio archives if possible...

Chuck: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:35AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Mr Capps are you attending the SLO Elect. Village Conference the next three days?

: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:37AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Anonymity is not the problem on the net. The real issue is for people to be able to separate the wheat from the chaff. They need tools to help them find accurate information and filter out bad. The net is still evolving. We need to learn new ways to communicate in such a dynamic medium. Probably things will be as different online in two years as they were two years ago (pre-web). Let's not rush into regulations prematurely.

clark-e@sa.ucsb.edu: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:37AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Hi Walter! I would like to know if you are interested in pursuing legislation that will allow U.S. citizens to claim more than one ethnicity on all Federal Government census' and related forms, i.e. employment, fin. aid., etc.

Julius: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:40AM PST (-0800 GMT)
"tools to help them find accurate information and filter out bad" sounds like censorship to me--who make the tools that decide what's bad. How about people should just simply satnd behind what they post (with a verifiable name or an ID)

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:40AM PST (-0800 GMT)
The fact that anyone can transmit information helps create a global culture, and for the very first time. However, discernment and discretion are required, as with other modes/form of communication. Check out yesterday's (Sunday's) NEW YORK TIMES for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Anonymity is a challenge. When books are published, manuscripts are examined beforehand by reviewers and editors. We don't have this check on what is transmitted through the Internet. But there are also beautifully creative pieces that would not be disseminated in any other way. I foresee further discussion of a large set of questions and interests on this subject and covet your opinion and judgment.

marcy: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:43AM PST (-0800 GMT)
If you could see / hear Walter's fingers flying across the keyboard as he responds to your questions - you'd know he is a natural at this ! His typing score is further proof ! Now lets get the clinton / gore folks this accessible !!! ;-)

Keith: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:43AM PST (-0800 GMT)
I think that the "tools" should be in the form of specific search engines that could either search personal pages or just those related to government and educational sources. This would be useful in reducing the clutter of the web when personal perspectives are not what the user is looking for

walter capps: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:44AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Sorry I have to go now. But I have enjoyed this communication very much, and hope to do it again soon. One of my guiding principles is that "Democracy is born in conversations." If we can do it this way, all the better. We'll do it again. Stay on, however, to ask my extraordinarily capable staff members -- Sharon Siegel and Nels Henderson -- whatever may be on your mind. I am particularly grateful to the students (kids) who participated. Let's keep a good thing going.....

Ken Owen: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:44AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Bye Walter, thanks!

Hal Finney: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:45AM PST (-0800 GMT)
In all honesty, I did not vote for you, but I must say that I have been very favorably impressed by your comments today!

Keith: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:45AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Bye Walter.

Nels Henderson: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:45AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Any questions for staff? Thaks for your participation!

SteveM: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:46AM PST (-0800 GMT)
When and where will the next chat forum be held?

Aquila, grade 9, Paradise Homeschool: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:46AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Good bye! It was really great of you to come online and talk like this, I hope you can do it again sometime!

NavStar@aol.com: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:47AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Is Mr Capps attending the Electronic Village Conference in SLO- I am also "Chuck"

Nels Henderson: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:47AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Don't have a date yet for the next chat, if you want to be on an announcement list, please email me at nels.henderson@mail.house.gov Thanks...

Nels Henderson: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:48AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Chuck, I believe he is giving a speech at that event....

NavStar@aol.com: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:52AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Thanks you Nels- guess I will see him then. I taught there but left when they did not have computers in 1960. smile

Keith: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:52AM PST (-0800 GMT)
button

Silvia Tyndall: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:52AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Thank you for joining us here at RAIN to take part in this historical chat. I hope that you will bring your backgroud in religious studies to bear as we as a culture shape and define these powerful communications technologies, and are in turn shaped and defined by them. THank you again Walter Capps for meeting the challenges before us.

abs: . . . . Mon, Mar 31, 12:57AM PST (-0800 GMT)
:)