Hi everyone,
Thanks for all of the comments thus far. Here are some of my thoughts:
I agree that it would be a good idea to have some sort of set of goals and specific talking points laid out before we actually meet again. Perhaps we can start some kind of wiki (anonymous, if need be) to list issues that ppl would like to discuss either by phone, Hangout, or in person. I also agree that it might be better if we can do a phone conference or
Google hangout or similar before we meet in person if it's going to be
more difficult for folks to attend a physical meeting. I'd be happy to get a simple outline going on etherpad or similar, if folks think this would be useful.
Regarding incorporation, it would help me to see a breakdown of benefits and what would be expected of group members after this potentially happens. And then ppl could provide feedback. I will admit that I'm still a little unclear of the process, even though I signed that doc...
On the issue of the mailing lists, it sounds like a good idea to join CT and Boston/NE into one. I didn't even realize there was a CT list until now! Hi, CT folks :)
Regarding positions, I can see why they would be warranted for a group with definite goals and plans. But it sounds like we might need more discussion first about just what those goals and plans are/should be. I would not be in favor of appointing positions, however. I like ppl's ideas about an online vote if need be, similar to the process used to vote for candidates on the WM Board.
Lastly, I appreciate the comments of everyone here and I'm hopeful that we can keep up the conversations before we move toward the next level for us as a group. As an anecdote, this past weekend I was at a reunion of a Peace Corps group with members hailing from all over who have stayed together and met as a group every few years since their service ended around 1970. I interviewed every one individually about why this group was able to stick together, when most Peace Corps volunteers just go their separate ways after their service. Every single one of them acknowledged that without the leadership of one particular guy, the group would have dissolved long ago. So Kevin, it's awesome that you have so far taken on responsibility for organizing meetings, and I thank you for it. Sven, it is so obvious that you care deeply for this group, and I also thank you for your long-standing commitment and suggestions, even now from afar. You rule! I hope we can all keep a civil dialogue going as we move forward with constructive ideas and feedback on things we can do better for the future.