Education for the Chamber of Commerce

This past year, I was encouraged to chair the Education Committee for the Parkville Area Chamber of Commerce.  I was also told that I was chosen for my position because I was an idea man.  I do have ideas, and I like testing them, but I'm not 100% sure on the outcomes.  Anyway, they asked me to bring ideas for the committee, but I had no idea what to do because I wasn't exactly sure on where the committee was/is headed.  I hosted the meeting today anyway (as you do).

Wow.  In 1 hour, we formulated 4 educational events with 3 community partners, and even talked about co-hosting some legislative events.  They are already on the calendar through October!  The best part?  The first educational event is a library showcase IN THE LIBRARY.  I'm still surprised at how many people don't know what libraries have to offer.  I'm going to change that in April.  Hosted with a lunch, the event is going to be open for the Chamber members and the public.  They asked if I could have something ready by then.  Of course!  I can whip out library presentations faster than anything.  It helps that I love libraries so much.

For the next meeting, they asked for me to come up with a vision of the education committee and where I thought it should go.  I can't wait to see what this adventure has in store for me.  Let the juggling act begin!

Letter from Tom Lutz, Chair of Creative Writing at UCR

This is a repost of a repost from a friend. I do not claim any credit for this letter, but I do agree with it. I think it is an example of the sad shape we are in right now. Please take the time to read it, and PLEASE pass it on. This letter should not have to be the impetus for social change, but if you agree, do so fervently.


Dear colleagues and students,

After a year and a half as Chair of the department, I am stepping down. Professor Andrew Winer will be taking my place, for which we should all be grateful.

As my last act as Chair, I would like to share with you my sense of the gravity of the situation we face. I spent most of my academic career doing what most of us do—teaching, writing, reading graduate applications and theses, having office hours, reading in my field, doing research. I didn’t pay much attention to the University and its administration. None of us have that luxury anymore. Budget cuts after budget cuts after budget cuts have left us all painfully aware of how the sausage is made, or not made.