[Hidden-tech] Thanks to you all on Thanksgiving!

[A - Z International]

Hi all,

	With Thanksgiving almost here I wanted to say a special thank you to 
the Hidden-Tech board, voting members and everyone in the network who 
is part of our phenomenal organization. Some of you will have read 
that I formally stepped down from the board on Nov. 13 and when the 
board/steering committee can convene after the holiday, we will all 
issue a statement. But I want you to know that there are no hard 
feelings and what I said to the Daily Hampshire Gazette represented 
the conflict that serving on the board has represented to me, my 
family and my income -- as well as compromising my roles at the 
chronicler of the trend.
	I didn't mention that this fall I started a master's in regional 
planning/economic developing at UMass and the stress of Hidden-Tech 
programming, work, family and school was a bit much for anyone -- 
even a work horse like me. Something had to give. After doing a lot 
of soul-searching I felt that Hidden-Tech needed some new blood. 
Founders much learn to exit stage left and let others lead.
	We have a wonderful, strong board, but they need your help. Right 
now there are four or five voting members of Hidden-Tech outside of 
the board (including me). There need to be 1,500-plus voting members 
for this to be a viable organization. But that means you need to ante 
up a little time (about two hours a month) and/or a little money 
(between $150-$500 a year). Hey, I think Hidden-Tech is worth far 
more and myself and the board have donated hundreds of thousands of 
dollars in work time each year so Hidden-Tech can serve you.
	As much as money helps, participation is even more valuable in my 
opinion. Now that's me, not the board speaking. Hidden-Tech will need 
money for Web development, some back up and even professional 
staffing, membership building and programming if it is to become a 
truly viable organization. So, as you approach your heavily laden 
table, think about Hidden-Tech and what you can do to get involved.
	Amy Zuckerman may not be on the board any more, but I'm the founder 
and I'm here to keep my "baby" alive. But I can't do this anymore at 
the expense of my daughter, Julia, who has suffered this fall from my 
heavy work load. You'll see me at events most of the time and even 
helping out, though probably not at the door and not as your 
"leader." Even so, you will find me available to chat, provide 
advice, and be there as a buddy. And, hey, like you, I need to build 
my business, so don't hesitate to track me down.

	With love and caring,

	Amy Zuckerman
	Hidden-Tech Founder