Dear Colleagues, As you may know, our Operating Principles require an affirmative vote of 70% of the accredited ALSs from North America to become operational. Prior to today's announcement, we were just one vote short of the 70% requirement. Since the vote is still open -- and will continue to be open until we have either 70% approval or 30% rejection -- I believe we should look for 70% of the new total of ALSs. I understand from Nick that the new organizations have been following the discussions. I hope they will be in a position to vote as soon as possible. For those of you who abstained because you did not have time to review the documents, please take the time today, this weekend, or as soon as you are able, to review the documents again. We would like you to consider changing your abstention into either an express approval or disapproval of the Operating Procedures and Code of Conduct. (Links in footer below). If you haven't yet voted, all you need to do to vote is send a message to the "official" North American list at na-als@atlarge-lists.icann.org identifying yourself, your organization, and saying "yes," "no," or "abstain" with regard to the (1) Operating Procedures, and (2) Code of Conduct. If you could copy me at bfausett (at) internet.law.pro, I would be grateful. Please let me know if you have any questions. We are almost there! Bret