Not really a newsletter I must admit :) more of an end of the year 'Merry Christmas' to everyone and a quick update on a couple of things.<br><br>I wanted to thank everyone for making the group largely successful this year. We had 12 meetings, some good discussions and got a mini project completed - the SLUG (which is currently hosting the <a href="http://www.watfordlug.org">www.watfordlug.org</a> website). I have no metrics other than my failing memory, but it is my perception that our number of members is increasing steadily.<br>
<br>When the LUG got started a while ago we had some grand ideas about making it more formal. We started to take subs and talked about purchasing project equipment and getting public speakers. I personally think that things have been fun doing it in our informal way. We concentrated more this year on getting a stable venue and setting up an environment for healthy debate with things like internet access and a projector. We have almost become a bit of a virtual group with a core of regulars and people who attend from time to time. Above all we have helped eachother out and solved some problems. However, it cannot be argued that the subs did allow us to purchase the SLUG which I think was a highlight of 2009.<br>
<br>Therefore, at the first meeting in 2010 I would like to open the discussion again regarding whether we want to continue with this informal setup. Recently we closed down the LUG bank account and lost our designated chairman. We have recouped just over £40 that is currently sitting in the the 'LUG Folder' on my filing cabinet at home. This is made up of approximately £20 of old subs money and a generous donation of another £20 from Cliff who recently stepped down. It's probably a good point in the email to say thank you to Cliff for helping to setup the LUG and thank you for the recent generosity, you will be missed.<br>
<br>But going back to the point.. next year we should set aside some time in the next meeting to discuss members roles (it's probably best to start again since we lost our chairman). There should be an agreement on whether we do this at all or whether we hold an election. Also, the question of the £1 subscription and whether that should be reinstated. If we plan to keep money laying around we should get another bank account - I'm massively in favour of an online only account if we need one again. Going to the bank is a real pain.<br>
<br>My feelings on all of this are pretty liberal. I'm happy to go on as we are but have seen the spark of what can be done with a small amount of money. There is always room for improvement and we can probably keep the informal aspects while introducing some of the benefits of being slightly more organised.<br>
<br>So there it is - just a heads up that we have money and we need to discuss group structure again. If you have any ideas on things to purchase before the next meeting let me know and we'll do our usual adhoc vote.<br>
<br>Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and see you in January,<br><br>Steven Acreman<br>