I'm in favor of trying out virtual options. I also have not had the opportunity to try Google Hangouts, but it might be interesting to learn. Wimba would also be a good idea--it is a proven technology that will work.
I think the e-mail discussion list will probably be the most unifying communication tool we can have. I still really like discussion lists (-:
While I have not been going to annual and midwinter lately, I can see that an in-person meeting would be a good idea--and it would be great if the in-person meetings could also include a virtual component.
Thanks for getting this started, Rudi!