The Database and GUI Design special interest group is part of HAL-PC, the Houston Area League of PC users. We meet the 2nd Saturday of each month at the HAL-PC offices. The address is 4543 Post Oak Place, Suite 200, Houston, TX.
HAL-PC is a non-profit corporation through which thousands of families help each other and the community to obtain maximum benefits from personal computing. HAL-PC was founded in 1982 with about 20 members, some of whom migrated from CP/M machines. From the start, the basic philosophy has been the same: helping each other use computers more effectively and become more productive in their application.
HAL-PC is now the world’s largest PC user group. Our spacious headquarters facility houses over 70 Special Interest Groups, two instructional labs, in-office access to the internet where users can download software and surf the web, and Texans Credit Union. HAL-PC also offers its members free e-mail and free limited dial-up internet access, meetings and special events, dial-up and broadband internet access through the HALNet internet system, and an outstanding monthly magazine. We also offer an extensive list of computer classes, free workshops on how to use the internet, and a large volunteer help committee who have made themselves available to assist fellow members in more than eighty-five software programs. Guests may attend a SIG meeting once as a courtesy.
HAL-PC hosts study groups who meet regularly to prepare for highly sought-after certifications such as CCNA, MCIE, and A+. Some special SIGs such as the Build or Buy SIG assist members both in understanding what to ask for if they want a custom system, or ordering the components and, under supervision, assembling their own systems. We feel that this in particular fosters confidence in the owner and a stronger understanding of computers. Our community outreach program takes in surplus computer equipment from area businesses and individuals restores it as necessary and redistributes it to Houston area schools, charities and non-profits.
Dues in HAL-PC are $40 annually; early renewals are $35. Dues in HALNet are $10.00 per month. Membership is available to individuals only; no organizations can join, although they can pay for individual employees to join.