[Novalug] Meetings and purpose

[American Dave]

On Mon, Jun 01, 2009 at 01:47:57PM -0400, Maxwell Spangler wrote:
> I excitedly supported Linux when the community was new and it needed the
> support of every single person involved in it in order to grow.  I think
> without it, this 'experiment' of open source or free software could have
> failed.  One of my goals was to help Linux become a replacement for Unix
> so that I could have all the power and capabilities of over priced Unix
> workstations I used to lust after.  Well now a netbook with Linux really
> makes me smile, the cost is right, and I'm happy with what we've all
> accomplished.  But what built Linux in the past isn't necessarily what
> it needs in the future, so this discussion of what LUGs should do is a
> very appropriate one.

I agree that your goal of supplanting powerful workstations has been
met, and then some.  One thing to think about is furthering Linux's lead,
and the ability to go into areas other systems can only dream about. 

> LUGs have always been about support and I don't think that will change.
> We used to provide hands on support with installation.  Maybe now that
> should change to optimizing Linux.  As in, sure you've got it installed,
> but do you know how to secure it?  To make it comfortable?  To customize
> it so you LOVE it and not just use it?  That's the stuff I'm interested
> in these days.

Agreed.  Making things better is good, and also showing new and creative
things Linux can do.  Art, embedded, etc.  I like thinking "I didn't
know you could do that" after a meeting.

> 850 miles away as of today, more in the new few weeks :)

I once made the drive in about 12 hours.  Hardly a sacrifice.
-A. Dave