Re: User group leader conference in Boston, May 2nd
On Fri, 10 Apr 2009 11:15:18 -0400 Ben Scott dragonh...@gmail.com wrote: GNHLUG is not at war with anyone, not even Microsoft. Nor is there a requirement of GNHLUG members to dislike or hate anything else in order to like or love or promote Linux or FOSS. -- Ed Lawson Ham Callsign: K1VP PGP Key ID: 1591EAD3 PGP Key Fingerprint: 79A1 CDC3 EF3D 7F93 1D28 2D42 58E4 2287 1591 EAD3 ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org/
Re: 503(c) stuff
I believe it is fair to say this is like dejavew all over again. For various reasons I prefer to say get the advice of Rob's wife as opposed to stating anything directly. My belief is that if asked she would likely say the following: 1. If at all possible use an umbrella organization. An aside, it would seem this might be a good service for LI to provide LUGS. 2. If your annual contributions do not exceed $5K, then you really don't need to do anything. 3. If you want to obtain your own determination letter, the 501(c)(3) is the way to go. 4. You need to do some work to develop budgets, develop projected income and expenses, develop proposed activities, create bylaws, and develop a formal, functional organization. 5. Once you have done 4, the application is actually rather easy. -- Ed Lawson Ham Callsign: K1VP PGP Key ID: 1591EAD3 PGP Key Fingerprint: 79A1 CDC3 EF3D 7F93 1D28 2D42 58E4 2287 1591 EAD3 ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org/
Re: 503(c) stuff
On Fri, 14 Mar 2008 10:07:11 -0400 Ben Scott [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I think the reason we have so much deja vu over and over again is that we keep getting told we should do things, but don't actually know *how* to do them. I also think the need to just do it also is involved. In other words, get some advice about options and info on them and then decide which option to pursue and then have that option pursued. 2. If your annual contributions do not exceed $5K, then you really don't need to do anything. If we don't need to do anything, why are there four other steps? ;-) Its one potential option, but others may have good reasons for saying you don't need to do it, but here are reasons for doing it anyway. Here's a deal, I will contact the person MD has highlighted in his post as the FPLC contact person, I will have them ascertain whether or not Carole's organization can function as an umbrella for GNHLUG and what would be involved and whether it makes any sense to even be thinking about this stuff given the amounts of money and future plans. I will report the results and give a few suggestions based on what the folks at FPLC have said. The intent of this endeavor is to provide the board with the info they need to make a decision. I estimate this will take 45 days. In the interim, I believe the board should be brainstorming about and deciding upon what events and activities it would like to develop. Sort of where and what and when and why. the result of that activity may also be an important factor in which option will be selected from those I will be bringing to the table. See Ben hounding is good. Just don't hound me about this until April 28th. g Actually I deserve this since I think I said I would try to get to part of this last fall and never reported back. -- Ed Lawson Ham Callsign: K1VP PGP Key ID: 1591EAD3 PGP Key Fingerprint: 79A1 CDC3 EF3D 7F93 1D28 2D42 58E4 2287 1591 EAD3 ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org/
Status of 503(c) stuff
You asked for it, you got it. I contacted Ashlyn who still is involved with the clinic at FPLC. She believes our 501(c)(3) issues will be something a student may want to take on, but the first chance will be during the summer session. So, assuming a student there is willing to take on the issue and assuming the scheduling works out and assuming GNLUG gets the paperwork done to establish a client relationship with the clinic, we should have some solid advice from the FPLC clinic by the end of July. May sound like a long time, but not really, and it gives GNHLUG time to work on other things since its status or not as being tax exempt should not affect other decisions. I will remind the Clinic in late May and in the meantime work on providing Ashlyn the info they need to evaluate the situation which in turn may mean I get to hound people for info. As they say, what goes around, comes around. g -- Ed Lawson Ham Callsign: K1VP PGP Key ID: 1591EAD3 PGP Key Fingerprint: 79A1 CDC3 EF3D 7F93 1D28 2D42 58E4 2287 1591 EAD3 ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org/
Re: First 2008 GNHLUG Board Meeting
RE: 502(c) stuff My understanding is Rob's wife did a good deal of work with non-profits in her practice so she should be an excellent resource. I think I have provided copies of the application in the past, but it is easy to find on the web anyway. The hard part of the process is not the legal part, but the organizational and planning work needed to have the information and projections needed to complete the application. At least that is my $.02. -- Ed Lawson Ham Callsign: K1VP PGP Key ID: 1591EAD3 PGP Key Fingerprint: 79A1 CDC3 EF3D 7F93 1D28 2D42 58E4 2287 1591 EAD3 ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org/
Correction
I suspect the threshold is @$5K not @$20K in terms of needing to file a 1023 to obtain tax exempt status...or rather a letter by the IRS acknowledging your tax exempt status. A distinction only lawyers appreciate. g -- Ed Lawson Ham Callsign: K1VP PGP Key ID: 1591EAD3 PGP Key Fingerprint: 79A1 CDC3 EF3D 7F93 1D28 2D42 58E4 2287 1591 EAD3 ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org/
Re: Meeting procedure (was: Preliminary notes)
What do the provisions of the By-Laws say with regard to meetings and what constitutes a quorum? That would be definitive. I'm afraid people need to come grips with the concept of representational democracy and quorums. Its not about everyone has to agree nor everyone has to be present. Absent specific authorization, board members typically have no authority to act individually nor have any authority as individuals either. Only a quorum of the Board acting as a body and at a meeting has any authority. Officers clearly can act within the scope of their authority. -- Ed Lawson Ham Callsign: K1VP PGP Key ID: 1591EAD3 PGP Key Fingerprint: 79A1 CDC3 EF3D 7F93 1D28 2D42 58E4 2287 1591 EAD3 ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org/
Re: Meeting procedure (was: Preliminary notes)
On Tue, 6 Nov 2007 09:14:53 -0500 Ben Scott [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Use Robert's Rules! The use of parliamentary procedure has been suggested. I strongly suggest that the Board not use Robert's Rules of Order or any similar book. These procedures/rules were developed for and are loosely used for situations that are quite different from the typical Board of Directors meeting and are not really suitable in all their glory. That said, I believe it is important to the point of being a practical necessity that the general nature of the discussions in terms of what was discussed, what points/opinions were expressed, and what the decisions made were be recorded in some form of minutes so there is a record made which in turn becomes the organization's history and in the future someone can go and see what was done and why. Consider such to be similar to comments in source code or documentation so that others can have some hint at what was done and why and hopefully not have to reinvent the wheel or worse. As Ben suggests, it is part of a process to enable continuity and accountability and needs to be suitable for the nature of the organization. -- Ed Lawson Ham Callsign: K1VP PGP Key ID: 1591EAD3 PGP Key Fingerprint: 79A1 CDC3 EF3D 7F93 1D28 2D42 58E4 2287 1591 EAD3 ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org/
Re: Legal entity types (was: Automated notification of topic changes)
On Wed, 22 Aug 2007 11:05:54 -0400 Ben Scott [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Ah. Okay. I know someone had said that 501(c)(3) is/had become harder to qualify for The form is a little daunting and does require some planning to be done in addition. Well, I thought I addressed that in my notes. The short version is that business interests is fairly broadly defined, and that just promoting Linux seemed like it would qualify. At least, that's my interpretation of information on the IRS website. You may want to look at IRS Publication 557 which provides some detail on these issues. -- Ed Lawson Ham Callsign: K1VP PGP Key ID: 1591EAD3 PGP Key Fingerprint: 79A1 CDC3 EF3D 7F93 1D28 2D42 58E4 2287 1591 EAD3 ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org/
Re: Notes for 31 May GNHLUG Board Meeting?
Bill Sconce [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: ... but the original should be something like ReST. What's ReST? Restructured Text. http://docutils.sourceforge.net/rst.html Somehow I just knew there had to be a Python under this. Ed Lawson Ham Callsign: K1VP PGP Key ID: 1591EAD3 PGP Key Fingerprint: 79A1 CDC3 EF3D 7F93 1D28 2D42 58E4 2287 1591 EAD3 ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org/
2006 By Laws Link?
I can find the 2005 draft of the By Laws, but not he 2006 draft on the GNHLUG site. Can anyone provide a link? TIA Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org/
Re: Summer Summit 2006 Notes
On Mon, 14 Aug 2006 11:44:17 -0400 Bill Sconce [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Jim's comments/scenario, according to my notes: 1. GNHLUG is a corporation. 2. Someone (Martha's, say) lets GNHLUG LLC. have a meeting upstairs. First, I suspect I will regret not keeping a personal promise to avoid this issue. Second, I will be out of town from Wed through Sunday and again for the fist two weeks of Sept. so I'm unlikely to actively participate in this debate regardless. Third, I have not read the notes, etc. Fourth, I am replying to Bill's message, but this is not directed at him That said, a few points. Nobody in their right mind would register/form GNLUG as an LLC so I don't know why there is a discussion of GNHLUG, LLC. I'll explain if anyone wants the long story, but I think we have been over that. I believe the issue is whether a voluntary association should be formed with the name of GNHLUG. As such it would be considered a not for profit organization and the general rules which apply to corporations would generally apply to GNHLUG. If it applied for recognition as a non-profit by the IRS, then it would be a tax exempt organization as well. That is really optional. While anyone can go search and find stuff on the web, I suggest the concept of piercing the corporate veil, etc. would simply be inapplicable to a voluntary association and all the stuff of that ilk are red herrings. So some want to leave it the way it is which is those who volunteer their time and money will be rewarded with unquestionable personal liability for anything that happens by any activity of GNHLUG such as the hypothetical given. Nice. And those of this view are doing what for GNHLUG aside from raising objections? There are a myriad clubs of every conceivable nature happily humming along in NH and nearly all of them of any substance are voluntary associations/non-profits. Do you really believe they would be and could survive if the list of horribles that are raised every time this subject is discussed within GNHLUG were the impediments some say? BTW, anyone taken the time to actually go to an insurance agent and obtain a quote for insuring a non-for profit association? I find this matter very tiresome and assume that someone will simply go file the papers and the malcontents can complain in the wilderness to their heart's content. Its like who is the next fearless leader and nomination /voting. Huh? On what basis does anyone think there is a right to nominate or vote or have any say. There is no framework to provide any of those things. Just to be clear, I have no interest in engaging in a debate about this, nor in responding to erroneous legal conclusions relating to non-profit corporations. I have a life. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: It's time to talk by-laws again...
On Thu, 20 Apr 2006 13:30:22 -0400 Ben Scott [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Maybe it's just resting? They stun easily... I didn't know Bill had one of the rare and beautiful Norwegian Blue parrots! I wonder why he has been hiding him from us? Would be a real attention grabber at Hoss Traders...well...maybe not given what one sees there. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: It's time to talk by-laws again...
On Wed, 19 Apr 2006 08:11:51 -0400 Ted Roche [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Ed, do you have wisdom to add? Yes, I'd like to learn more if anyone has more insights. I'm jammed up right now and will be a few days before I can digest what everyone is saying and get back on the 501(c) (3/6) issues. I may well be wrong on this, but I see the issues around structure and voting as more bedeviling in terms of arriving at a good solution given GNHLUG's history and its participants. It is for that reason I believe Ben's thought of more than one organization has some merit or at least it leads us to think about some important and fundamental issues concerning the mission and role of GNHLUG. I think Ted and Ben stirred all this up just to get more of us to Hoss Traders where we could chat endlessly about it over fried bread and bad coffee. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: It's time to talk by-laws again...
On Wed, 19 Apr 2006 09:24:53 -0400 Jon maddog Hall [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I hate to split it up into two organizations. It is hard enough to get people's time and energy for *ONE* organization. I share your opinion on this. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: It's time to talk by-laws again...
On Tue, 18 Apr 2006 13:41:00 -0400 Bruce Dawson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Excellent [re-]start Ted. Thanks for remembering this! Indeed. Of course the age old problem still exists. Since everyone wants to be as egalitarian as our roots require (and I essentially agree with this view), who-when-and how is it to be determined that this should be done and how it is done? Not being an organized group, I suspect someone will simply have to take the bit in theteeth and do it since there is no mechanism to do otherwise. That said, I believe a concrete proposal should be developed, circulated, and presented to the attendees of a quarterly meeting for an up or down vote. I say that because it is important that all those who participate in GNHLUG should have a chance to review and comment before the finalization of the necessary docs, but I also believe it is not feasible to have all concerns addressed or accepted nor for a final document to be developed at a given general meeting. Ed Lawson Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: It's time to talk by-laws again...
On Tue, 18 Apr 2006 15:40:12 -0400 Ben Scott [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: If we're going to go before anyone and say we represent GNHLUG, we have to make sure we actually *DO* represent GNHLUG. That means everyone has to agree with everything we're pushing (more or less). Not in response to the merits of what Ben has suggested, but only to point out that one often under appreciated and misunderstood feature of a democracy is that the majority rules. As in one vote over an even split can dictate the path of the organization. Ultimately it is not a decision by consensus mode of operation. This can be the cause of much mischief just as it can be a way of governing effectively. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: Linuxworld Booth #1035
Bill: I could go on Tuesday or Wednesday. What are your plans. Looks to me like the bus takes you to within a 15 minute walk to site. Planning is hard as I have to work around my day job. Ed ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: New Internet server - Getting the ball rolling
On Thu, 9 Feb 2006 09:26:42 -0500 Ted Roche [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: What functions are those? 1, Email lists 2, Calendar 3. Basic web site CMS Anything else? Some type of Forum/Wiki? Moodle for supplying structured info on how use/install/configure linux/applications? Ed Lawson -- Edward E. Lawson, Esq. Lawson Persson, PC 67 Water Street, Suite 103 Laconia, NH 03246 Tel: 603-528-0036 FAX:603-528-3332 NOTICE REGARDING CONFIDENTIALITY AND ATTORNEY/CLIENT PRIVILEGE This message, including any attachments, is a PRIVATE communication which may contain attorney/client privileged material and is for the exclusive use of the intended recipient. If you are not the intended recipient, please do not read, copy, use, or disclose to others. If you have received this message in error, please reply to sender and delete this message from your system. Thank you. ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: The next big event?
On Tue, 20 Dec 2005 13:09:20 -0500 David J Berube [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: If desired, I'd be glad to speak on Making Money with Open Source - I've had a number of requests for it. The money or the talk? If the former, put me on the list. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: Purge mailman queues?
On Tue, 25 Oct 2005 09:34:38 -0400 Bruce Dawson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Sigh. I can't find a way to purge it in the version of mailman used by the gnhlug-org list. Why not just wipe the file clean holding the messages? Ed Lawson Who is known to do crazy and careless things. ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: Purge mailman queues?
On Tue, 25 Oct 2005 10:12:42 -0400 Bill McGonigle [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Just the other day I set it to automatically discard messages that are from non-subscribers. (privacy options...sender filter IIRC) Great idea. I have several mail lists I run for other organizations so I have the same issue with all and now I have a solution. I have to check them as I run those lists as moderated lists. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: GNHLUG brochure-ware for Hosstraders?
On Fri, 29 Apr 2005 09:06:58 -0400 Ted Roche [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Staples just sent me $10 to spend at their copy center, and I'd be glad to donate it to GNHLUG for handouts for the upcoming Hosstraders event. Do we have any documents prepared? I didn't see anything on the wiki... Maybe Ed will teach us enough Scribus on Monday at CentraLUG that I can give it a shot.. Thanks for adding to the pressure of figuring it out enough to talk about it. g What size paper should the brochure be? Maybe I can start setting up a template and we can use it for the demo on Monday. I think creating a one page flyer using standard letter size make the most sense. After the heading two columns for copy? Not to give away too much, but Scribus supposedly will import OO files and retain formatting, etc. So...Ted if you want to start creating content, be my guest and then we will see if it really works on Monday. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: Hosstraders
On Wed, 4 May 2005 12:35:37 -0400 mike ledoux [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: So far, I've got (x86 versions): Ubuntu was suggested as another good option, I will try to pull it down tonight. Any others? Here is a recent ham radio version of Knoppix that would be good to have. htp://hamshack-hack.sourceforge.net/ Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: Quarterly Meeting - Nov 3
On Tue, 11 Oct 2005 11:36:50 -0400 Ted Roche [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: GNHLUG chapter co-ordinators: any objection to having Bill host the first quarterly meeting in a long time? (besides whining it's too far to drive) Point of protocol: should we plan on NOT holding regular chapter meetings that month? A very long time ago when the chapter idea was basically created, it was thought there would be mega meetings so to speak quarterly or so which would be GNHLUG meetings as opposed to chapter meetings. These meetings would highlight big name speakers or more involved topics, provide a way for people in the various chapters to meet and socialize and plan, and for there to be a time and place to make decisions about GNHLUG. the assumption then, rightly or wrongly, was that it would take the place of chapter meetings that month. Historically, these have been in Nashua. Ed lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: Are the bylaws too sparse?
On Thu, 20 Oct 2005 12:05:53 -0400 Ted Roche [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: 1. Number and composition of the Board of Directors: I'd like to ensure that each chapter feels they are represented on the board, as I'd also like a couple of At-Large members who are interested in the overall organization Excellent ideas. We could go with a BOD using the current chapters with say two at large members. New chapters could be approved by the BOD. 2. Rotating terms: in the proposed by-laws, all BoD members are elected for a three-year term. Comments? Never a right or wrong answer to this one, just what people think will work. People could sit on the board for several terms so it is very hard to know how it will play out for continuity. 4. Inclusive qualifications for membership The egalitarian thing to to allow all members who wish to be members. I think as a practical matter all who wish to be members can be members and there is no need for a requirement for paying dues. On the other hand there may well be people who have no interest in the mechanics of the club and would have no interest is making things work so to speak so perhaps those people should not be able to hold office or vote or whatever. Frankly I've never been in a club where all members were not full members, but in the past there has been this thing in GNHLUG about everybody should be participate without any corresponding potential responsibilities which is not all that good either unless you have a separate category of members. Personally I'd like to see a single category of member and some modest dues for adult members. Don't want to pay dues? Fine and you can come to all the meetings, etc. but you don't get to be a member, vote or the burden of making things work. 5. Membership exclusion: The reality is that there may be some limitations we as a group wish to place on membership, or the possibility that a member needs to be excluded for some reason. How should we define membership? Good question. Not easy to make a list of do's and don'ts that will get you excluded. 6. Finally, should we leave this to the first BoD to bring to the - org list to discuss and establish as a policy document rather than encoding this in the bylaws? My thinking is to always have a fairly limited set of bylaws and allow all the operational details to be fleshed out in policies, etc. created by BOD and/or approved by members. Most corporate by-laws are really rather spartan and people rely upon the inherent powers that shareholder/members and BOD have under statutes. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: gnhlug-org mailing list shenanigans
On Tue, 25 Oct 2005 11:58:01 -0400 Bruce Dawson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I haven't heard back from any volunteers for moderating the gnhlug-org list. Any takers? I will keep moderating the org list. I promise to keep at it this time. I just looked and there were not pending requests. My mistake to think purging would not be hard. I believe the more recent versions have that feature. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: bylaws discussion / quarterly meeting
On Tue, 18 Oct 2005 12:13:12 -0400 Bill McGonigle [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I'm sending out the meeting announcement as soon as I get someone's name to put down to lead the discussion of the ByLaws and Incorporation. Might want to wait until after this coming Sunday to see how things shake out or up or whatever. Being a chicken hawk, I will volunteer to coach Ted so he can go and speak on the issue. g Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: GNHLUG *ONLINE*: Request for a bit of wisdom
On Fri, 14 Oct 2005 10:31:41 -0400 Bill Sconce [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: (I'm personally interested that the DBA is not a good idea, OK, I admit to being curt if not lacking in common curtesy, but when I'm busy I get that way. The term DBA stands for doing business as and only applies to commercial enterprises which GNHLUIG is not and does not want to be seen as. It might complicate any assertion of being a non-profit whatever. Technically, you do not register a name as a DBA. You register a trade name under the provision of RSA 349 and the term trade name is used to apply to the name under which an entity, other than corporations, etc. conduct business in NH. Again, the requirement for registration is that it be a name which is used to conduct business. GNHLUG does not, nor do we want it to be conducting business as in a commercial operation or for there to be any official record which might imply or connect it to somebody or thing that engaged in commercial business operations using the name GNHLUG. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: GNHLUG *ONLINE*: Request for a bit of wisdom
Star wrote: There really is an easy answer to the protection of name point: For less than $100 ($75, I believe) someone can register it as a DBA (Doing Business As.., no relation to Oracle). For reasons that I will not get into there are many reasons why this is unnecessary and not a particularly good idea. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: GNHLUG presence at SwaNH InfoExchange?
On Fri, 1 Jul 2005 11:24:10 -0400 Ted Roche [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I was chatting with an attendee at last night's Saving Money with Open Source seminar How did that go, what was the typical attendee like, and what was the level of interest? Wish I had known about it earlier, but that may have been my own lack on attention. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: Tradeshow Banner progress report: a yellow-bellied penguin. Help?
On Wed, 15 Jun 2005 10:25:58 -0400 Ted Roche [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: It looks great on the Ubuntu workstation I'm running Scribus on, both in Scribus and in xpdf, but exported to PDF and viewed in Acrobat7/ Mac or Acrobat 6/Windows, it appears that Tux has developed jaundice: yellow bleeds through his belly. This might be unique to the view of it on the computer and would not occur when printed. Why not a bumblebee Tux? Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: Linux classes at Hosstraders
On Tue, 03 May 2005 21:18:08 -0400 Jon maddog Hall [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: And it kind of ends then. It sometimes goes longer. In any case, Norm and I will negotiate. I think it is a great idea, but a little short on planning time. Work is piling up so not sure what I can put together in terms of a demo station. I will bring some bootable CDs of Knoppix set up with Ham Radio applications and the iso images for others to use to burn more copies. Will also bring around 20 copies of a print out of ham radio applications on Linux. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list gnhlug-org@mail.gnhlug.org http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Linux and Open Source in NH Schools
This Tuesday, I attended a meeting of the school tech coordinators in Exeter which had as the primary topic Linux and open source software. It was amazing. In Exeter they have a professional development center with 30 computers running Linux Terminal Server and they are opening a Charter School which will be using Linux exclusively. Other schools are moving forward with major Linux and Open source initiatives and the state DOE seems to be interested as well. Several participants ran Linux on a variety of laptops including Apples and many are uniformly installing and using Open Office in place of MS Office for office machines. It appeared the E-Smith server package is becoming the tool of choice to use in installing and setting up servers in schools. The consensus of may participants was to get people using Open Source cross platform applications and then they can more easily be moved over to Linux which is one reason why promoting Open source on windows is beneficial to the adoption of Linux I think it is fair to say thinks are moving forward at a very rapid rate and it would be nice if GNHLUG could find a way to facilitate and assist this activity. From my perspective, the lack of organization and coordinated activities, as much as that might work internally and among ourselves, is a major limiting factor when dealing other organizations. I feel GNHLUG is for this reason, as perhaps it should be, more a small and loose collection of kindred spirit Linux users as opposed to an organization which also engages in activities for its promotion and education about its use. On a side note, shortly around a dozen libraries and other computer access centers in the norther part of the state will soon have large collections of Opens Source software for loan and use. Ed Lawson ___ gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
[Gnhlug-org] Ham Radio Bootable CD
Something to think about for Hosstraders. A German ham has developed a Knoppix CD which includes a fairly broad range of ham related software. This means you can boot the CD and run Linux ham software on any PC. Might be a good item for Hosstraders. I will be testing it this weekend and report back. I could print up some labels and produce say 30 or so CDs. Anyone think this is a bad idea? Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
[Gnhlug-org] Library and More Opportunity
when I asked the Laconia library if they were willing to have software donated for use by patrons, I received a positive reply and a meeting was scheduled with a group of people responsible for TechLink NH. We met today and they are quite enthusiastic about using Linux and OSS in their program and to facilitate its use with library patrons and others. To undestand what TechLinik is and does, you should visit their website at http://www.techlink.org They are thinking about creating wireless access point to provide access for small northern downs towns, they put on educational programs for other non-profits, schools, senior centers about software and internet use, and they manage Internet access mini networks for at least 14 sites in northern NH which are primarily libraries. Needless to say there might be a great deal of work and a great opportunity here to help people use Linux and OSS. They are going to send me a shopping list of things they are doing and what they would like to to do with an eye for doing more of it with Linux and OSS. They are talking about holding training sessions with their staff to make them Linux literate and to help the tech pe9ople create small networks using Linux, perhaps with thin clients. So is this something we should be actively seeking to do? Obviously this is potentially a much larger deal than providing a few libraries with copies of Linux distros. Personally, it seems quite exciting. These people are willing, indeed eager, to obtain knowledge from GNHLUG and then go out into these communities and promote the use of Linux and OSS. They have heard about Linux and OSS, they know it can be a benefit to them, but they don't have the skills and knowledge to use it. This shows that the first stage is over. Linux is on the radar screen of these groups and they want to know more to enable them to useit. Now we need to find a way to help people who have the inclination to use Linux to actually use it to accomplish their missions. Not sure where we go from here, but I will have feedback from them in a week or two. Then we can think about specific projects. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
[Gnhlug-org] Link correction for TechLink NH
On Wed, 18 Feb 2004 14:06:05 -0500 Ed Lawson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: To undestand what TechLinik is and does, you should visit their website at http://www.techlink.org Sorry. Correct link is http://techlinknh.org Ed ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
[Gnhlug-org] NHSTE Workshop
Just a note to let people know that the NHSTE/ School Linux workshop being held in Penacook this week is having around 15 people each day. These are tech admins for school systems and shows that Linux is becoming a real choice for schools. I spoke to a person from the state DOE and they too have an interest in using Linux in schools. So there are some opportunities for GNHLUG in this area, and I am going to be working with NHSTE leadership over the next few months to see what can be done for them further. If more comes of this I will report back and shift specific projects to the discuss list. The bad news is none of the people there had heard of GNHLUG. I had the impression it was a very informative and thorough workshop. They had a complete computer lab at their disposal so attendees not only got to install Linux and become familiar with it, but create networks with thin client solutions using Linux terminal server software created for the k12 school setting and other goodies. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] Thr 5 Feb 2004 Meeting Report
On Wed, 11 Feb 2004 17:35:27 -0500 Rob Lembree [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: On Mon, 2004-02-09 at 22:20, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hello all, Given that Paul Lussier, at least, missed what went on at the meeting we had, I figured I would try and write up a report on what went on. The topic of incorporating GNHLUG as a real non-profit came up again. I got the feeling it was abandoned again, too, but again, I missed some discussion. We abandoned it again temporarily with the idea that it can be resurrected when we can all decide what the job of the umbrella organization is (beyond a web site and mailing list). As one of the attendees, I guess I will chime in with a thought on this. This is not a big issue with me, but I do believe it sense to file the paperwork creating a voluntary association or a not for profit organization under state law. This is totally separate from the issue of obtaining tax exempt status from the IRS. It simply creates an official entity and essentially every club in NH that I have belonged had done so. Otherwise you are nothing from a legal perspective and anyone can appropriate the name, etc. If that happens, the remedies are not easy or cheap. I have been in a situation in which one organization did not do so, a rogue group split off, registered with the state using the original groups name, and then went out holding events and advertising itself using the name of the original group. It was not a good situation. I fully understand the independent if not libertarian like nature of the group, but still. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] Organizing GNHLUG (was: Library Project)
On Thu, 12 Feb 2004 10:47:34 -0500 (EST) [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: On Thu, 12 Feb 2004, at 8:43am, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: My question is, since we know this is what it takes for a project to work, why do we assume GNHLUG does not need a similar level of organization? This is a big topic. I don't have time to give it a good treatment right now, While you think about it, consider this comment in your reply on the library project. Can we contact that organization and introduce ourselves and this project? Who is the we and what/who is being introduced as ourselves. Absolutely needs to be done for many projects, etc. I can speak for myself, you and I may be able to speak for a collection of people who have communicated on a mailing list, but is there a GNHLUG that can be introduced and for whom we can speak and make commitments? That is the issue to me at least. I don't think so under the present situation. Does not mean there is not a group of loosely affiliated people who identify themselves as GNHLUG members. Does not mean that group cannot get together and have fun and do somethings. When you start entering into projects that affect others and agree to do joint projects with others and take responsibility for tasks, then the existence of an entity becomes more important. Or so it seems to me. I think I will quietly let this topic proceed without further comment from me as I have been vocal enough on it. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] So Now What?
On Fri, 30 Jan 2004 22:00:15 -0500 Jon maddog Hall [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I guessed I missed the fact that the Monadlug had been such a dynamic engine. I was thinking of the past when Jerry was quite active. It seemed much of the energy for new things came from there a few years ago. Overall, the Nashua and Seacoast groups have provided the most sustained effort at having events of interest to the members IMHO. I think we have not been good overall in out reach programs to the public. Actually, I think that the real answer is to have a strong GNHLUG leadership, which then makes running the local LUGS easier. I agree conceptually. Brainstorming works best in a room, where people can feed off each other's ideas and excitement. It is a lot harder over the net. Totally agre with this. So I put the steak in the ground: Next Thursday or Friday night, or even Saturday? I think more people will come if you put the steak on the grill and not in the ground. I would prefer a location around Manchester for the meeting, but Nashua OK and Thurs or Friday, but Sat during the day would be fine. I'll let those with more hectic schedules/travel, etc. make the choice. In any event, lets do it. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] So Now What?
On Sat, 31 Jan 2004 10:12:22 -0500 Jon maddog Hall [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Martha's on a thursday or friday night might be too noisy and too crowded for a meeting. I might suggest the American Buffet on Rt. 101A, and try to get a table in the corner. I'll leave it to those who know Nashua to pick a good spot. Thursday or Friday best for me Time wise I would prefer no earlier than 6:30. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
[Gnhlug-org] So Now What?
It seems to me there have been two thoughtful postings late yesterday and essentially no response. Not even a What are you talking about? This seems a bit ominous to me for the reasons cogently stated by Maddog. So now what? Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] So Now What?
On Fri, 30 Jan 2004 20:02:37 -0500 Jon maddog Hall [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I must not be getting all my gnhlug-org email (and yes, I checked my SPAM catcher), because I do not know what two thoughtful postings there were late yesterday that had essentially no response. I saw Dave Marston's, and I responded with a yup, I agree, and there was mine, You and Dave had the thoughtful comments and not sure there was anything else. I go by an imperfect memory most of the time. Some of you (I don't know who, but I assume that it is Ed, Rob and a couple more) are going to meet at the Central LUG meeting Monday. This was a last minute, hit or miss idea that was floated about. Maybe we should try to come up with a date when everyone is in town so to speak in March and chat over favorite beverages. What I mean is that if Ed wants to do schools, and Rob wants to do libraries, then it would be better if they got together and did the Library and School project, so as not to dilute the rare and scarce resources that we have. I think at this stage, it is just as well to have people focus on something that excites them. I was just trying to do something for a specific workshop that NHSTE has scheduled. Not a project as such. Beyond that, I think I will work on a library like project and try to help Berube with Centralug. I have other thoughts.like: Have a field trip down to USELINUX (a part of USENIX), and have a LUG day down there Excellent idea that could help get disparate people together for a day. kidnap the USENIX Linux speakers and take them out on a boat. Take them out to the prison/fort island in the harbor and not let them back till they talk? What I would like to see and what I will advocate for Centralug is a talk on using the Twiki and the Nuke sites, one on the basics of how to program, and encouraging folks to talk about an app or technique or something that interests them. At this point it almost seems like getting the local lugs working well might be he easiest way to build a better and stronger GNHLUG. I think that is how and why the Monadlug became a dynamic engine for change and growth in GNHLUG. So that is where my limited time and energy is more likely to be spent. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Centralug] Re: [Gnhlug-org] moving on
On 27 Jan 2004 22:13:06 -0500 Bruce Dawson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I'd like to suggest that the groups have created a comfortable structure and that they feel they don't need Quarterly global meetings anymore. But that they do like (or don't care about) the infrastructure that GNHLUG set up, and might continue to use it - especially when one finds a big name to come speak. Sorta like BLU, SwANH, and GNSEG do with GNHLUG. I suppose I should keep quiet because I have not helped out as I should and the current state is the result of people like me not doing anything to help GNHLUG and Centralug grow. However, talk is cheap. While others know the history far better than I, it seems to me that historically, GNHLUG had as its base meetings in Durham and Nashua. that is where the focus had been and where the meetings were held including the major meetings. With the increased interest in Linux, more people became attendees, more people wanted meetings of a more local nature, and GNHLUG, to the extent it was anything other than loose collection of people with common interest, decided to create local groups under its umbrella. Some of those have done better than others and I find myself trying to attend local meetings more than the Nashua larger group meetings. For whatever reason it seems to me the Nashua and to some extent the Durham group have reassumed the role of hosting the major meetings. The other local groups to what they can do. The reality, it seems to me, is that without a structure to maintain continuity and persons to be responsible for the organization, GNHLUG and the local groups will forever be informal and hit or miss. I do not suggest this is bad or by this make a qualitative statement. It is a quantitative statement. It might even be best given the time and energy that the participants can bring to the organization. What we do not want, I suggest, is a situation in which good people burn out beating their heads against the wall. Something that has happened more than once and for which I accept my share of the responsibility. The real question is what should GNHLUG be and who is GNHLUG and who get s to decide the who,what, when, where, why, and how of GNHLUG. Until this is defined and we have a group of people with the time and energy to work toward that common goal, GNHLUG and the sub groups will continue as they have been, which may well be just fine. I believe there has never been agreement on that, but I believe there has been a tacit agreement that the less organization the better and the more informal the better. I suppose one could question whether the way a loose collection of hobbyists and activists tend to associate is a good way to promote Linux and OSS now give its higher public visibility. For me, the task and the small segment of the world where I might be able to make an impact is to assist the operation of the Centralug and to support the larger meetings held in Nashua and Durham when I can as the talks from national figures and the Chrismas meeting have always been events I looked forward to. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Centralug] Re: [Gnhlug-org] moving on
On 28 Jan 2004 10:56:33 -0500 Bruce Dawson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I think you're doing the right thing - then advertise the effort to the GNHLUG group. Sure, solicit help, (which you did), and it'll come if there's sufficient interest. I think the issue rob is point out is that he did ask for help on the list. I think the only person other than me who responded was Randy out in the pacific. There is no mechanism for getting a few people together and mulling over a project, honing the details, and assigning responsibility to see it gets done. Sure one person can do big things. But if one person does a big thing on their own and manages to collect a follower or two, who did it and why should anyone say GNHLUG did it? Case in point. The Tech Coordinators organization for NH schools (NHSTE) is having a four day workshop next month on the use of Linux in schools. Yes, that is a workshop that lasts four days, all day and these educators are paying $550/person to attend. http://www.kannoncom.com/nhsteweb/pd/linux_workshops This seminar has some very interesting topics from the basics of Linux to showing how to to develop and deploy Linux in a school setting. The presenter is a person from Maine with national recognition for using Linux in a school. Is this something GNHLUG could help with, could GNHLUG provide assistance to school tech coordinators in learn, installing, and use Linux? Should the existence of GNHLUG be made known at the workshop as a valuable local resource. I would think so. I would hope so. Now, just how is that done? Do I as an individual have the right to speak for GNHLUG? Do I dare do it alone and set up GNHLUG for obligating itself to help educators in any way? If I wanted to get the OK from GNHLUG to inform workshop attendees of the resources available in GNHLUG, whom do I ask, what authority to they have to act or authorize? Without some way to follow through, I am not about to risk setting up the attendees for disappointment and failure in dealing with Linux and GNHLUG by bringing GNHLUG to their attention. So we are losing a great opportunity, IMHO, due to the lack of some minimal level of organization. If the deal is GNHLUG provides a venue to sit around and make snide comments about MSFT, fine. I just think GNHLUG should be more and should be a means of promoting Linux and helping those who want to explore it. I don't see it doing that without some level of organization. Maybe what is needed is a different organization. Obviously you caught me on a roll today. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Centralug] Re: [Gnhlug-org] moving on
On Wed, 28 Jan 2004 10:21:25 -0500 Rob Lembree [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Case in point: I'm now doing the public library project all by myself, because it's something I believe it, and because nobody stepped forward to help out. Bob, you must have missed by e-mail. I have collections of OSS software and a web interface for them that I burn onto CDs to give out at presentations to educators. I would be glad to prepare copies and design a label for the project. It isn't feasible for me to go to Nashua for on site stuff. Ed lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Centralug] Re: [Gnhlug-org] moving on
On Wed, 28 Jan 2004 14:32:46 -0500 Rob Lembree [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Simple as that, if people volunteer. I am going to contact the presenter and see what might be done. I will report back to this list with his response. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Centralug] Re: [Gnhlug-org] moving on
On 28 Jan 2004 15:17:01 -0500 Bruce Dawson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: But I suspect others might have similar requirements. And most people aren't familiar with the tools (hmmm: that could be a meeting topic), I think it has been raised before and you have raised it again. It would absolutely be a good idea to have a program on using Wikis in general and using the ones of GNHLUG in particular as well as community forum or whatever the name dejour is for Post-Nuke type apps. I think we should schedule that for a topic at Centalug or some location with internet access in two or three months. I take it Berube is listening? We need to mix topics to appeal to those who code and stuff, to those who want to try Linux out, and those who mainly use applications. For example the Ruby session coming up could be followed by one showing how to use a common application such as Gaim or Firebird or Abiword, followed by one comparing the various distros. So we are going to have dinner before the meeting next week or beer afterwards and redesign the world or what? Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
[Gnhlug-org] Re: adult ed classes on Linux
Once I get the insanity of moving and reorganizing a business over, one task will be the development of an adult ed class on Linuxand/or Open Source. Since installing Linux at a school's computer lab is not likely to say the least, the use of Knoppix CDs seems a great solution. It will also enable students to take it home and play with Linux on their computers without affecting theior currently installed software. The primary question to me is just what should be taught in a four or five week course with classes running about 1 1/2 hrs. each? My assumption would be those who sign up are likely to be more interested in computers than most, but also unlikely to be technically proficient. Has anyone taught such a class? Know of a course outline anywhere? TIA Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] proposal for meeting
Rob Lembree wrote: OK, I'm making reservations for tonight at 1900 for myself, Paul, maddog, Ben, Ed and Bruce. Hope that you can all make it! Cannot make it due to last minute buiness issues. Will email to Rob my thoughts later in the day about mission, projects, etc. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] proposal for meeting
[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: If half the important people cannot show, Well, so far it's only 2/6 who can't make it, and I think 1/3 is still 1/2, which means 2/3 can still make it :) Yes, but he said 1/2 of the important people. g So I assume that means two of the remaining four..nevermind. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] proposal for meeting
Ben Boulanger wrote: Those who absolutely can't make it for other reasons will get their opinions across in other ways. Yes. Have the meeting . Need to get on with things. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] agenda for Monday, and some of my thoughts. Paul's responses will follow....
). There have been elections in the past and it would be good to return to doing so at say the annual Christmas meeting. So perhaps a goal would be to build the organization up to the point of being able to have elections by Dec. 2003. Another part of formalizing will involve signing up people to do work. I dislike the term 'committee', so I'd prefer to think of these people and their groups as daemons or subtasks. ;-) Yes, we need people who are willing and able to do certain things, assign more than one or two for mutual support and then support their efforts as needed. In other words the ultimate success of the subtasks and GNHLUG rests on the leadership, not the other way around. Important to keep in mind. Let's begin by assuming that the chapter chairs will take care of lining up talks, and will keep in touch with everyone else in the leadership group, so that we have good communication. Agree. As soon as we have formality, we should have a charter that describes how the organization works. The charter is also a requirement of I think the second step after developinng a charter is to file as a voluntary association with the Secretary of State's office. I did the forms once and can easily do it again. * Not-For-Profit Filing ...which I also believe that we need. Education and Advocacy costs money. Money for postage, copying, coffee and donuts, etc., and being a 501(c)(3) will allow those who donate to realize a tax advantage. Unless we are seeking and accepting substantial sums of money this can wait awhile. Even then you can file and the certification can be retroactive. The process is not hard, but it is time consuminng and it requires GNHLUG to have a budget, projected expenses and revenues, formal orgainnzation, etc. Obtaining 501(c)(3) is quite different from becoming a voluntary or nonprofit corporation with the State of New Hampshire. Last I knew, the IRS efffectively has a $20,000.00 annnual donation minimum before they really took interest. The Charitable Trusts office in New Hampshire no doubt may not be so forgiving. Linux International cooperation maddog has a plan for LI that involves LUGs, where LUGs can use LI as a resource, and visa-versa. I'll let him go into detail on this at the meeting, but I'd like what we do and how we do it to fit into his vision for LI. In summary, I feel that GNHLUG can be a truly meaningful organization to the people in the communities which we serve (and I do believe that we should think of ourselves and conduct ourselves as a service organization). Well, I think it is a social club, special interest club, and hopefully an educational and advocacy group. Service organization seems a bit of a stretch as I'm not sure we want to be viewed as providing services. To do this, we need direction (a plan), organization (people who are expected to do specific work), and execution (we start Monday). I feel that we have the opportunity to be the prototype of how LUGs can work. I think we should make an efort to see how other LUGs operate and what they have found to be successful. that way we do not repeat the mistakes of others and can expend the limited resources on things that work and will build GNHLUG and effectively get the message out. My $.02 Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
[Gnhlug-org] Misc. thoughts on future actions
Since there will be a meeting to discuss or at least consider future actions/activites of GNHLUG and advocacy or whatever might be a topic, please consider the the following as potential projects. 1. Establishing a GNHLUG demo set of machines that could be used for official demo activities. For example a server and a desktop machine or two. 2. Develop a selection of Open Source software for Linnux, Windows, Mac and burn it on CDROMs for use at demonstrations. Develop a listing of memebers who use certain packages to provide local help. 3. Develop a list of members who can provide install/config/use help to newbies for specific distros. 4. Establish a series of talks/demos to give to non-profits, schools, business clubs and have specific members geared up for different demos and audiences. 5. Establish contacts and working relationships with various groups in the state trying to provide low cost, refurbished computers and internet access to various communities. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] 4 Dec 2002 meeting status?
Rob Lembree wrote: My recommendation at this time is that we forgo the dinner for two reasons. First virtually nobody's signed up. Second, I haven't heard back from Marthas re: the room. Would seem to be the only rational and reasonable course of action. Not that those qualitites mean all that much in the final analysis. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] Dec 4 meeting
Rob Lembree wrote: Also, given the poor turnout so far on the list re: dinner, I've got some reluctance to do the official dinner thing. What are you guys thinking? We have 3 respondents, one of whom said doubtful, and I'd have hoped to have more positive response by now. FWIW, the weeks of Dec. 2, 9, 16 are impossible due to presentations and trials for me which is a real bummer as the end of the year meeting is one of the few I really try to attend. Lately life is just too crazy. Sound unfortunate as the dinner/evening/Christmas meetings have been a good time for all. Ed Lawson Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] Fwd: Linux User Group Program
On Thu, 17 Oct 2002 12:13:52 -0400 [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: This is too bizarre. Should we offer this to our members (probably via the web site)? Sure. Its free. ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] Fwd: Linux User Group Program
On Thu, 17 Oct 2002 13:18:38 -0400 [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I believe all these rags are already free, you just need to sign up for them using a free subscription form which can be found on their websites. True, but not everyone knows that. So long as just one notice by GNHLUG lets people know the details of where to go to subscribe, what is the harm? Obviously we should not be allowing anyone access to email addresses of GNHLUG members or to send numerous messages on anyone's behalf. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] centralug.org blocking port 25?
On 08 Oct 2002 23:07:10 -0400 Ben Boulanger [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Maybe we could start up a list of gear that we have and anyone who has something better can put it up for grabs to replace something that currently exists. I suppose many of us have unused bits and parts about that could easily be assembled and used by GNHLUG and its sub groups. I hae oten thought we should have a series of machines that can be used to demo the abilites of Linux and be used as test beds for prospective users. for example, a samba server, an intranet web/mail server, a desktop machine, a diskless terminal and server combo, etc. Maybe a dedicated machine for network installs of several distros for use a installfests or similar activities. The trick is just to get a few people to agree on what is needed and to do it. Or perhaps for someone just to do it. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
Re: [Gnhlug-org] [Fwd: Linux consultants - Lebanon, Debian Java]
mike ledoux wrote: I believe you are right; however, I don't believe that GNHLUG is in a position to be making that kind of recommendation. After all, we've never actually *used* any of these consultants, so what would we be basing that recommendation on? Membership on a public mailing list? I think that having GNHLUG making recommendations could be very problematic if a situation arises where the consultant's work is not satisfactory to the client. I doubt I can state with suitable emphasis the position that no way no how should GNHLUG ever suggest, list, recommend, infer, or do anything that gives rise to a belief that any consultant, supplier, or bottlewasher might be suitable or unsuitable for any task. Ed Lawson ___ Gnhlug-org mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://mail.gnhlug.org/mailman/listinfo/gnhlug-org
