> basically ok, IMHO, to show interest in collaboroation.
> however, florian maier seems no longer be in charge of
> limux, but kirsten böge, see http://www.it-muenchen-blog.de/category/open-source/
> - there is also a contact email at http://www.it-muenchen-blog.de/uber-uns/
> I think they can read/write in english there fairly well.
> otherwise, me or julius can help with german :)

Kirsten Böge seems to be the "communications manager" of the project and probably the correct first contact.

Although the email will be written in English, what is an appropriate German salutation and closing? Culturally, would using German appear as a gesture of good will or not?

Sehr geehrte Frau Kirsten Böge,

Dear Kirsten Böge,

???

Likewise for the closing:

Sincerely,

Mit freundlichen Gruessen,

???

What is best?

Werner, although many Germans speak and write English, would you please review the final letter to ensure no cultural translation problems or slang appear in the letter?

Darrell