An e-mail founds it way to my in-box late last night announcing that the Arkansas Young Professionals Network would cease existence in its current form, and would re-organize as part of the Greater Little Rock Chamber of Commerce. According to an e-mail from group president Buckley O’Mell: “As part of the process, the AYPN name and identity will cease to exist and will be replaced by a Chamber-based name and logo. While many may feel sad to see the AYPN name disappear, this move not only provides brand identity for the Chamber, but is also signals a rebirth to those who still have a negative opinion about the organization based on the actions and e-mails of some of last year’s board members.”

You may recall that last year we here at The Think Tank along with Max Brantley of the Arkansas Times (on his blog) busted open many e-mail threads from board members, none of whom appear to still be involved. Nate Hinkle of Arkansas Business followed up on it, and so did Gwen Moritz. Ms. Mortiz concluded in December 2007, “The leadership of AYPN - once a fast-growing organization with real purpose and mission - had devolved into a plotting, exclusive boys’ club.”

The new group, according to Gary Newton of the LR Chamber, has a working title of Emerging Professionals, or E-Pros, but that may change. They’ll engage in a series of leadership activities and will work to launch King Content Festival, an event that involves music, gaming, web, TV, CGI and interactive.

At first glance, this seems like a reasonable and sensible solution. I hope it works.