History

In 1982 a group of Commodore 64 computer users formed the “Kankakee Hackers Commodore Computer User Group”. The group supported the Commodore 64, then eventually the Commodore 128 and the Commodore Amiga. The Amiga portion of the “Kankakee Hackers” formed their own user group called the “A.C.E.S.” The “Kankakee Hackers” continued supporting Commodore 64 and 128 computers, and also branched out to support the Apple II series computers. In the early 90′s the group bought an Intel 80286-based computer, thus expanding its support to include the IBM compatibles.

It was during this period that, because of the negative meaning of the word “Hackers” in the computer world, the “Kankakee Hackers Commodore Computer Users Group” became “The Kankakee River Valley Computer Users Group.” The User Group maintained one of the longest running Bulletin Board Systems in the area, known as “The TeleRag.” Upon obtaining Internet access the club set up its own Web page. The User Group also hosted several Computer Shows in the Kankakee area.

Through the changes of supporting various computers, meeting in numerous places, and the name change, the group has maintained its main objective: “To help people with their computer problems.” The Kankakee River Valley Computer Users Group supports Intel/AMD x86-based hardware running Microsoft’s Windows as well as Linux operating systems and compatible software. The User Group presently meets monthly at the Friendswood Christian Church building located at the corner of Route 102 and Glenn Rd on the outskirts of Bourbonnais. Its meetings are held on the 2nd Saturday of the month from 10am-1pm.