Grand Rapids Tech Group

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The Grand Rapids Tech Group is a non-profit organization that started in January of 2003 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

In July of 1998, Brian Lemieux (IgKnight) formed the Grand Rapids 2600 to find others that were as interested in technology as he was. Being that the 2600: The Hacker Quarterly had many restrictions on what can and cannot be done during the meetings, and the fact that the 2600 is a ‘Hacker’ magazine and was starting to draw the wrong crowd, IgKnight, along with friends Todd Kirchner (Slewfoot) and Steven Hovey (Slacter) decided to form their own technology based organization known as the Grand Rapids Tech Group (GRTG).

The GRTG’s main goal is to bring the Computer and Technology community together and provide a means for members to learn from each other, and to have fun doing it. The group has members that have interests and specialites in various areas of technology, ranging from computer basics, Linux, Computer security, forensics, to robotics, MAME, High powered rocket, and so on), they have lots of information to share with others, and have a great time doing so.

The group constantly brings new subjects and ideas to the technology community. A few of their many current projects are:

(A) An Instant Messaging service (in beta) for the technology and computer community to stay in contact with each other, (B) Whole house wood boiler installation, (C) How-To videos concerning computer setup and streamlining, and (D) much more.

In addition to discussing various topics and learning from each other in their forums, the group holds many events throughout the year. From their mini LAN parties, strategy game days, and bonfires held throughout the year, to annual events such as their New Years Eve party (viewable online with the webcam), the GRTG New Years Day Movie Marathon, and the High Tech Halloween Party (most parties are open to the public).

The group has many ideas on things they would like to bring to the community, from an Internet show explaining how things are done, to going to schools to provide presentations and holding workshops in and around the West Michigan area to help the general public learn about specific topics related to computers and technology.