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Portrait of Payton Garner

Payton Garner

Hi. I'm Payton Garner. I am a junior here at the U of A. I have lived in Little Rock all my life, but I am glad I made the decision to attend college in Fayetteville. Both my parents graduated from here in the mid '70s and I am glad I can follow in their footsteps.

I am the president of the Macintosh Users Group. I would like to see it expand over the years and get more people to learn about what makes the Mac so great. I honor the position as President very much. But, I would like to stress that it doesn't make me the only leader of the group nor a dictator in any way. I want the MUG to be a self-governing society where members, no matter how knowledgeable, can meet to discuss Apple related topics, get help from other users, and speculate on what Apple will come out with next! More importantly, though, I think I can learn a lot from having a position such as this. I am pleased that I have this opportunity.

I have been a Mac user all my life, so I've had it pretty easy. It has always been good to me. I have enjoyed it ever since I used to play the submarine simulator "Gato" on my father's old Apple 128K, which he purchased in 1985. He also owns the premeir issue of Macworld; January 1984. However, it wasn't until recently, since the release of Mac OS X, that I have taken a keen interest in the Mac-maker. I've just been drawn into the ease of use and wonderful GUI that only Apple can achieve. Apple is the main reason why I decided to initially become and Computer Engineer... which I have since changed to Information Systems. I have been following the company for a matter of years and I see great potential. I consider myself a certified Mac Geek. And I don't dislike Windows users at all. Sure, I used to poke fun at them when things would go wrong or they would get a virus, but now I am trying to become more diplomatic about the Macintosh.

While I may not be as technically knowledgeable as some other members, my interest in Apple is incalculable. I hope to learn a lot while in this position as well as share my knowledge with everyone. I do plan on working directly for Apple Computer upon graduation, so I know this is a step in the right direction for me. I will do my very best at upholding the MUG constitution (yes, we have a constitution) and making sure everyone has a voice. Participation and sharing ideas is very important to me and I hope everyone will try to get involved in one way or another.

Beyond the Mac, I enjoy rock climbing, playing video games and hanging out with friends at the dorm. I also enjoy taking my Xterra mudding. I am looking for some good places to go around Fayetteville. I have been down to Devil's Den, which is a pretty good spot for driving off road. If anyone knows of anywhere to go, or would like to take a trip, please let me know.

Feel free to email me or send me an instant message using AOL Instant Messenger or iChat.