Just in time for the holidays, Warren announced that the first release candidate of MEPIS 8 is available for testing. Important changes include an updated kernel and wireless driver (wl), along with many improvements by Debian developers.

The Documentation Team has completed the User's Manual for the forthcoming MEPIS 8 and it is now in the repos. This large effort by the Community involved not only thoroughly checking and testing everything against the new release, but also writing new sections on such items as bluetooth, scripts and the kernel.

Anticapitalista has announced the first public test release of antiX-M8, a fast and light complete desktop and LiveCD based on MEPIS and Debian Testing, along with a little bit of sidux. Features include an improved Control Centre, phonebook, extended themes and artwork and much more.

The MEPIS Community is being asked to support the HeliOS Project. This Project spreads the word of Linux by providing computers for kids who are either financially disadvantaged or exceptional students. A small donation not only gets you a chance at the December 20 drawing for a new computer, it helps the Project meet the challenge of a tough year.

Another (and hopefully the last) beta of MEPIS 8 has been released. In his announcement, Warren emphasized the important role of the Community in reporting problems and suggesting fixes.