[wplug-erie] ErieLUG Resurrection

[erielug at bekit.net]

Hello all!

I recently stumbled upon the ErieLUG site. I was sad to see that
activity had faded in the recent months before I had a chance to
participate. After seeing Chris' email about his relocation and need to
release control of the ErieLUG, I decided to contact him for more
information. After talking with Chris and Beth Lynn of WPLUG, I have
decided to take Chris' place as the chair of ErieLUG and attempt to
revive it.

I'll be honest, I'm new to LUGs and this may be a shaky start. I am
however an avid Linux user/advocate (Windows free at home for 2 years!)
and I am familiar with the community feeling the Linux and Open Source
can bring. I recently attended the Ohio Linuxfest to meet with Chris
and Beth face-to-face and was able to get a lot of great advice from
both of them, as well as many others.

So, here is my plan: 
1. First of all, taking a poll of who is active on this list - please
take a moment and post back a little "hello" to let me know I'm not
just talking to myself :) Also, if you have any suggestions, please let
me know - the more info I have, the better I can serve the community.

2. I would like to start with an online presence. After I get some
things worked out, I will be launching a new website for the ErieLUG.
This will contain information about the LUG, other Linux and Erie
events and a place for us to share ideas. I am also looking into some
sort of IRC channel, but that will depend on your reaction to this
idea.

3. Before too long, I would like to start arranging real life meetings.
I will probably be trying to get the library location that I believe
you used before. If anyone has any other suggestions, please let me
know - I know that Molly Brannagin's is a great bar and has free WiFi
:)

4. After things start rolling, I want to continue to promote the LUG.
Perhaps try to get some news coverage and run a few events (such as
installfests).

My friend Gordon (aka - G) will be helping me get things started, and
Chris has offered to help as long as he is able. I think that Erie is
still an emerging market for technology - I'd like to see us work
towards making Erie a Linux and Open Source friendly area and help the
individuals and businesses in the area see the power of the Open Source
community.

Stay tuned - there's plenty more to come. :)

-Brint

Brint E. Kriebel
http://bekit.net