[Wlug] Linux Choix?

It has been a while. I tried getting our nonprofit (Worcester land conservation) to adopt Linux some years back. Problem I had back then was weak graphic options, publisher options, Quicken options, and a lack of a good answer to running ArcGIS. I was beaten back into M$. I want another crack at this. I am looking to take a spare laptop and install a Linux OS and OS apps. Previously, some years back, I used to use what are now Mandriva Linux installs. Coming back to this I see that there are dozens and dozens of options these days. What, if any, of the options do the WLUG folk prefer/recommend. Thanks so much, Colin