Terry:

So much for my 2 free calls.

When I first got VFP 8.0 they helped me with both installation and operating problems. Now they say that the 2 free calls are for installation problems only. If the language doesn't work, you have to get out your credit card and the price for one incident is $350.

I told him politely where he could stuff it.

In my spare time I am learning PHP and MySQL which is for Web Development. The files you need are all free unless you want very special tools, which might cost $30. On top of that, there are support organizations who will help you either for free or for a fairly small fee. The whole atmosphere of PHP MySql is so refreshing.

When you download a software package, they immediately start sending you News Group reports and get you engaged. When is the last time MS sent you anything? And when is the last time you spoke to a MS employee in this forum? I feel VFP has drifted so far to the bottom of the list that MS has forgotten we exist.

When I started learning VB.net it was such a different story. MS have a special free forum (GOTDOT.NET) supported with their own employees (plus others). And they do send you out announcements.

My loyalty to MS in this environment is rapidly dwindling. If Linux ever catches on in North America (as it is in Europe), it will be like Xerox in the 1970's where people left in droves as soon as they had a viable alternative because Xerox treated their customers like crap.

Mike Smith