[KLUG Members] Thompson for Chairman

[Bruce Smith]

Hey Andrew,

I admire your enthusiasm and goals for KLUG! 
It all sounds very good to me!

I do have one question for you that I'm wondering how you will handle.
It seems like your job (or something) prevents you from getting to the
7PM meetings on time?  And since the chairman has always introduced the
meeting and the speaker ... how do you plan on handling that?

I don't see this as a major obstacle.  I'm just wondering if you plan on
changing the date/time of the meetings?  Or maybe you plan on having a
different officer do the intro?  Or maybe you plan on driving faster? :)
Just curious!  

BTW, considering the current ballot, you've got my vote!!!  ;-)

 - BS


> This coming Tuesday, the Kalamazoo Linux Users Group meets to elect its
> officers for 2006. In seeking the chairmanship, I would like to share a
> few thoughts about our organization and its direction in the coming
> year.
> 
> KLUG faces a new year of challenge and opportunity. Even as the Linux
> and open source communities grapple for recognition in the face of
> ignorance and apathy, their victories, though small, continue to mount.
> This is a vital source of encouragement to any organization dedicated to
> the growth and spread of open-source software and philosophies, and
> especially to one in such a rare and powerful position as we command.
> 
> KLUG enjoys the unusual position of membership in our regional chamber
> of commerce. This visibility and close proximity to local businesses
> present us with an opportunity. Our status, too, as a 501(c)(3)
> not-for-profit offers a valuable incentive to potential donors seeking
> to support a valuable educational institution; another opportunity,
> whose full potential remains to be explored.
> 
> Over the next year, I would like to make these goals our top priority:
> - Strengthen our current relationships, especially with the Chamber.
> - Build new relationships with local business and civic organizations.
> - Expand our public presence in current and new venues.
> - Employ all of these avenues to expand awareness of the power and
> benefits of open source.
> 
> I believe we have the talent and the will to pursue these goals, and
> with responsive leadership, mutual support and determination, we will
> achieve them. I look forward to working with you all in the coming year.