Update from New Zealand

[Sibylle Schwarz]

Hi everyone, 

I've already introduced what we're doing here in Wellington with Retake the Net 

here:

https://groups.google.com/d/msg/contactsummit/NrExd09OUvI/Olqxyeoyo8UJ 

and here: 

https://groups.google.com/d/topic/contactsummit/LMWtqfROel0/discussion

Things are progressing nicely! We recently launched a wiki specifically for the barcamp, to collect registrations, session ideas, organised volunteers, etc:

http://wiki.retakethe.net/

Last night we had our final meetup before the actual barcamp, where we asked people what they expected from the barcamp, what they didn't want to see, and how they could contribute:

http://retakethe.net/2011/09/28/lessons-liberty-lulz-planning-our-barcamp/

We're starting to see some real traction which is very exciting! We managed to secure a number of sponsors so we can feed the crowd on the day, and for venue and free wifi. The city council is very supportive of us as well as what we do ties into their larger digital strategy, and we have visibility and support all the way from the mayor down.

Hope this is useful for others who organise similar events. We've already learned a lot in the process and I'm happy to answer questions.

Sibylle

[Jon Lebkowsky]

Thanks, that's great to hear! We were also hearing good things from Thomas Ruddy in Europe, and we'll share more about those soon.

Others, please feel free to share your plans here and do some networking prior to the event.

I should note that the NYC sessions will not be streaming live, which means that you can all be focused on your own projects.

best,
Jon L.

--
Jon Lebkowsky (@jonl)

Polycot Associates: Advanced Internet Solutions

Weblogsky.com: Smart Thinking About Culture, Media, and the Internet
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