BELUG meeting Tuesday, July 8th, 2025 at 6:30pm
0 views
Skip to first unread message
Steve Herber
Jul 7, 2025, 8:19:20 AMJul 7
to
BELUG: Supporting Linux and open source for 21 years.
The next BELUG meeting is Tuesday, July 8th at 6:30pm.
The Zoom link, with password, is:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/131116407?pwd=OFkwZzZWMVhDdlhMTU91K2lOVkQvZz09
Meeting ID: 131 116 407
Passcode: 117647
The in-person location is at the North Bellevue Community Center:
North Bellevue Community Center
4063 148th Ave NE
Bellevue, WA. 98007
Please come early to help set up the room.
The meeting will follow this format:
introductions all around
collect technical questions to answer later
a review of the previous meeting topics
a review of a digital photography tool
our best answers to your technical questions.
The AI generated transcript from the meeting is below.
We cover a wide range of topics for new and old linux users.
I hope you can attend our next meeting.
Thank you,
Steve Herber her...@herber.us cell: 425-281-0355
Software Engineer, UW Medicine, IT Services
Subject: Meeting Summary for BELUG
Date: Wed, 11 Jun 2025 03:28:41 +0000 (UTC)
From: Meeting Summary with AI Companion <no-r...@zoom.us>
To: ko...@univention.com
Meeting summary for BELUG (06/10/2025)
Quick recap
The meeting covered a wide range of technical topics, including backup solutions, Linux-based photography tools, and the challenges of transitioning from Windows to Linux. Participants discussed various software options for photo editing and image management, as well as the potential applications of AI in automating tasks and generating web links. The group also explored organizing events to help users migrate to Linux and refurbish older computers, emphasizing the importance of proper preparation and data backup.
Next steps
Steve/Team: Plan potential install-fest event details, including backup requirements, liability considerations, and distribution selection
Randy: Write up recommended steps for users migrating from Windows 10 to Linux, including data backup procedures and password management considerations
Steve/Team: Consider organizing a dedicated session about implementing AI tools locally, particularly for automation tasks
Steve: Create a web page listing Linux photography tools and seek volunteers for future tool presentations
Steve: Follow up with the Ballard Rotary Club contact regarding their computer refurbishment event plans
Steve: Evaluate room setup and microphone placement for optimal audio quality in future meetings
Summary
Backup Solutions and AI Ventures
Steve and Kevin discussed backup solutions, focusing on Proxmox's standalone backup server with deduplication capabilities for virtual environments. They also touched on Red Hat Identity Management and the challenges of working with younger founders. Steve mentioned his involvement in AI ventures, including co-coaching with a therapist and a sales research optimization project. The conversation concluded with a brief mention of Gen Z work preferences and scheduling.
IPv6 and Docker Networking Challenges
Steve discussed his experience with IPv6, including setting up DNS64 and prefix delegation, and encountered issues with three websites that had incorrect IPv6 addresses. He also mentioned resolving problems with WireGuard on Android by using a forked version with an IPv4/IPv6 toggle. Alex shared that he updated his desktop and server, with the server running Debian as a NAS, and asked about Docker container communication for certificate updates, to which Steve suggested using a script to handle restarts rather than direct container communication.
Technical Setup and Software Discussions
The meeting began with Steve addressing technical issues related to audio and video setup, ensuring participants could hear and see each other. Bill shared his ongoing struggles with Microsoft's support for a hacked email account and his consideration of switching to Apple due to software compatibility issues. Bill also discussed his work on the Raspberry Pi 4, including installing new software for digital imaging. David, a long-time Linux user, introduced himself and shared his experience with Darktable, expressing interest in the community. Marty confirmed his technical setup was functioning well, while Steve concluded by acknowledging Marty's presence and moving on to Dave Compton, who mentioned his work with a server called Dwarich.
Linux Privacy Alternatives Discussion
The group discussed alternatives to Google's location tracking system, with David sharing his experience with a self-hosted Linux option that is still in development. Steve raised concerns about government data collection and suggested that phone carriers also track location data. The conversation ended with Steve sharing his experience presenting at a digital imaging group about Linux as an alternative to Windows for photography, particularly for those facing privacy concerns with Windows 11 upgrades and subscription-based software models.
Linux Photo Editing Tools Exploration
Steve proposed organizing a series of meetings to explore various Linux photography and video editing tools, with a focus on still image editing. David shared insights about different software options, noting that while Adobe Lightroom is widely used, Darktable offers more complexity and features. The group discussed the capabilities and categorization of various tools, including GIMP, Digicam, and Pinta, with Steve planning to expand the list and schedule future presentations on specific tools.
Linux Photo and Image Editing Tools
The group discussed various photo and image editing tools available for Linux, including GIMP, Darktable, Raw Therapee, and Inkscape. They evaluated different tools based on their features and functionality, with Randy sharing his experience using GIMP for photo editing and Shotwell as a photo management tool. Bill mentioned the recent update to GIMP 3.0.4 and its improvements. The team also touched on video editing capabilities within Linux, mentioning tools like Blender and OBS. They concluded by considering the inclusion of additional tools like Krita and Drawing for their list, with Randy noting Krita's high rating for functionality.
Photo Editing Software Alternatives
The group discussed various photo editing software options, with Randy recommending Windows Server 2025 as an alternative to Windows 10 for better performance and fewer issues. Sanjiv shared his experience using GIMP for creating Facebook event pages, while Steve proposed creating a webpage to gather volunteers for presenting on different photo software tools. Randy shared a recent image rating list that highlighted Krita, MyPaint, and GIMP as top options, and the group briefly discussed a collaborative drawing program called Drawpile.
AI Applications and Automation Discussion
The group discussed AI applications and their experiences with AI tools. Steve proposed using AI to automatically generate web links related to meeting topics from meeting summaries, and Randy shared his experience using AI for specific tasks like finding recipes. The conversation touched on the potential of AI to replace traditional search engines and the importance of balancing information sharing to avoid overwhelming users. Steve also mentioned his interest in developing a shell script to automate the AI link generation process.
Linux Transition and Computer Refurbishing
Steve shared his experience of being hacked and discussed the need for a flash drive to install Linux for people transitioning from Windows. Randy confirmed that creating such a flash drive is possible. They also talked about a potential event in the Ballard area to refurbish older computers with Linux, organized by a member of the Rotary Club.
Linux Migration: Challenges and Solutions
The group discussed the challenges and steps involved in migrating from Windows to Linux, with Randy emphasizing the importance of data backup and password management. They explored alternative solutions like using Windows Server 2025 for those unable to upgrade and considered creating a guide for new Linux users. Steve highlighted the need for proper preparation and addressed concerns about printing and application compatibility. The conversation ended with positive feedback on a new speaker system, though some audio issues were noted that required further adjustment.
Linux Installation Festival Planning
The group discussed organizing an installation festival to help members transition from Windows to Linux, with Steve proposing a two-day event in August and September. They agreed to develop clear steps for participants, including data backup requirements, and Randy suggested creating a flash drive with the necessary Linux distribution. The discussion also covered the potential use of Chromebooks as an alternative for some users, with Randy noting that while Chromebooks are suitable for beginners, they lack the flexibility needed for more advanced computing tasks.
The next BELUG meeting is Tuesday, July 8th at 6:30pm.
The Zoom link, with password, is:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/131116407?pwd=OFkwZzZWMVhDdlhMTU91K2lOVkQvZz09
Meeting ID: 131 116 407
Passcode: 117647
The in-person location is at the North Bellevue Community Center:
North Bellevue Community Center
4063 148th Ave NE
Bellevue, WA. 98007
Please come early to help set up the room.
The meeting will follow this format:
introductions all around
collect technical questions to answer later
a review of the previous meeting topics
a review of a digital photography tool
our best answers to your technical questions.
The AI generated transcript from the meeting is below.
We cover a wide range of topics for new and old linux users.
I hope you can attend our next meeting.
Thank you,
Steve Herber her...@herber.us cell: 425-281-0355
Software Engineer, UW Medicine, IT Services
Subject: Meeting Summary for BELUG
Date: Wed, 11 Jun 2025 03:28:41 +0000 (UTC)
From: Meeting Summary with AI Companion <no-r...@zoom.us>
To: ko...@univention.com
Meeting summary for BELUG (06/10/2025)
Quick recap
The meeting covered a wide range of technical topics, including backup solutions, Linux-based photography tools, and the challenges of transitioning from Windows to Linux. Participants discussed various software options for photo editing and image management, as well as the potential applications of AI in automating tasks and generating web links. The group also explored organizing events to help users migrate to Linux and refurbish older computers, emphasizing the importance of proper preparation and data backup.
Next steps
Steve/Team: Plan potential install-fest event details, including backup requirements, liability considerations, and distribution selection
Randy: Write up recommended steps for users migrating from Windows 10 to Linux, including data backup procedures and password management considerations
Steve/Team: Consider organizing a dedicated session about implementing AI tools locally, particularly for automation tasks
Steve: Create a web page listing Linux photography tools and seek volunteers for future tool presentations
Steve: Follow up with the Ballard Rotary Club contact regarding their computer refurbishment event plans
Steve: Evaluate room setup and microphone placement for optimal audio quality in future meetings
Summary
Backup Solutions and AI Ventures
Steve and Kevin discussed backup solutions, focusing on Proxmox's standalone backup server with deduplication capabilities for virtual environments. They also touched on Red Hat Identity Management and the challenges of working with younger founders. Steve mentioned his involvement in AI ventures, including co-coaching with a therapist and a sales research optimization project. The conversation concluded with a brief mention of Gen Z work preferences and scheduling.
IPv6 and Docker Networking Challenges
Steve discussed his experience with IPv6, including setting up DNS64 and prefix delegation, and encountered issues with three websites that had incorrect IPv6 addresses. He also mentioned resolving problems with WireGuard on Android by using a forked version with an IPv4/IPv6 toggle. Alex shared that he updated his desktop and server, with the server running Debian as a NAS, and asked about Docker container communication for certificate updates, to which Steve suggested using a script to handle restarts rather than direct container communication.
Technical Setup and Software Discussions
The meeting began with Steve addressing technical issues related to audio and video setup, ensuring participants could hear and see each other. Bill shared his ongoing struggles with Microsoft's support for a hacked email account and his consideration of switching to Apple due to software compatibility issues. Bill also discussed his work on the Raspberry Pi 4, including installing new software for digital imaging. David, a long-time Linux user, introduced himself and shared his experience with Darktable, expressing interest in the community. Marty confirmed his technical setup was functioning well, while Steve concluded by acknowledging Marty's presence and moving on to Dave Compton, who mentioned his work with a server called Dwarich.
Linux Privacy Alternatives Discussion
The group discussed alternatives to Google's location tracking system, with David sharing his experience with a self-hosted Linux option that is still in development. Steve raised concerns about government data collection and suggested that phone carriers also track location data. The conversation ended with Steve sharing his experience presenting at a digital imaging group about Linux as an alternative to Windows for photography, particularly for those facing privacy concerns with Windows 11 upgrades and subscription-based software models.
Linux Photo Editing Tools Exploration
Steve proposed organizing a series of meetings to explore various Linux photography and video editing tools, with a focus on still image editing. David shared insights about different software options, noting that while Adobe Lightroom is widely used, Darktable offers more complexity and features. The group discussed the capabilities and categorization of various tools, including GIMP, Digicam, and Pinta, with Steve planning to expand the list and schedule future presentations on specific tools.
Linux Photo and Image Editing Tools
The group discussed various photo and image editing tools available for Linux, including GIMP, Darktable, Raw Therapee, and Inkscape. They evaluated different tools based on their features and functionality, with Randy sharing his experience using GIMP for photo editing and Shotwell as a photo management tool. Bill mentioned the recent update to GIMP 3.0.4 and its improvements. The team also touched on video editing capabilities within Linux, mentioning tools like Blender and OBS. They concluded by considering the inclusion of additional tools like Krita and Drawing for their list, with Randy noting Krita's high rating for functionality.
Photo Editing Software Alternatives
The group discussed various photo editing software options, with Randy recommending Windows Server 2025 as an alternative to Windows 10 for better performance and fewer issues. Sanjiv shared his experience using GIMP for creating Facebook event pages, while Steve proposed creating a webpage to gather volunteers for presenting on different photo software tools. Randy shared a recent image rating list that highlighted Krita, MyPaint, and GIMP as top options, and the group briefly discussed a collaborative drawing program called Drawpile.
AI Applications and Automation Discussion
The group discussed AI applications and their experiences with AI tools. Steve proposed using AI to automatically generate web links related to meeting topics from meeting summaries, and Randy shared his experience using AI for specific tasks like finding recipes. The conversation touched on the potential of AI to replace traditional search engines and the importance of balancing information sharing to avoid overwhelming users. Steve also mentioned his interest in developing a shell script to automate the AI link generation process.
Linux Transition and Computer Refurbishing
Steve shared his experience of being hacked and discussed the need for a flash drive to install Linux for people transitioning from Windows. Randy confirmed that creating such a flash drive is possible. They also talked about a potential event in the Ballard area to refurbish older computers with Linux, organized by a member of the Rotary Club.
Linux Migration: Challenges and Solutions
The group discussed the challenges and steps involved in migrating from Windows to Linux, with Randy emphasizing the importance of data backup and password management. They explored alternative solutions like using Windows Server 2025 for those unable to upgrade and considered creating a guide for new Linux users. Steve highlighted the need for proper preparation and addressed concerns about printing and application compatibility. The conversation ended with positive feedback on a new speaker system, though some audio issues were noted that required further adjustment.
Linux Installation Festival Planning
The group discussed organizing an installation festival to help members transition from Windows to Linux, with Steve proposing a two-day event in August and September. They agreed to develop clear steps for participants, including data backup requirements, and Randy suggested creating a flash drive with the necessary Linux distribution. The discussion also covered the potential use of Chromebooks as an alternative for some users, with Randy noting that while Chromebooks are suitable for beginners, they lack the flexibility needed for more advanced computing tasks.
Reply all
Reply to author
Forward
0 new messages