Wednesday II meetings for 2013

Wednesday II meetings provide an opportunity to gather on the second Wednesday of each month, August through May. We encourage you to mark your calendar and plan to join us for camaraderie, light refreshments, and interesting programs. All Emeriti and surviving spouses are invited.

Wednesday, February 13

Emeriti Lounge in Walwood Hall, 2 p.m.

Tom Bailey will share observations on President Theodore Roosevelt. In undertaking a study of Roosevelt, the reader enters a world of stunning complexity. One of the world's most compelling personalities, and one of its most exasperating, Roosevelt dominated every room he entered, including maybe especially the reader’s mind. Roosevelt was a writer; his collected works comprise 27 volumes.

In this presentation entitled “Teddy Roosevelt Meets His Match on the River of Doubt,” Bailey will discuss Roosevelt’s book, "Through the Brazilian Wilderness" (1914), which concerns his trip down Brazil’s River of Doubt in 1913. The trip which was ill-advised, adventuresome, perilous and nearly ended our hero’s life. We’ll take a look at the Teddy Roosevelt myth, the Roosevelt character and the Roosevelt we think we know, and see some of that character’s hidden traits, flaws and strengths.

Wednesday, March 13

Emeriti Lounge in Walwood Hall, 2 p.m.

Sr. Virginia (Ginny) Jones will discuss “Envisioning an Ecovillage in SW Michigan.” What would a “green” residential community in our area look like? Could it be a model for a smarter, healthier lifestyle that enhances the quality of life for people and at the same time preserves and nurtures the natural community that supports all life? What would it take to create such a village? For more than 15 years a dedicated group has been working to answer these questions.

They soon learned that they needed to deal with a host of technical and legal questions, political constraints and the challenge of forming and sustaining a social group composed of individuals with diverse backgrounds and ideas. In the process they learned a great deal about what it takes to create a “community” and how much education is required at all levels of our society if a vision like this is to become a reality—not only for this group but also for others who may seek to accept similar challenges.

Wednesday, April 10

Emeriti Lounge in Walwood Hall, 2 p.m.

Bob Miller, WMU associate vice president for community outreach, will present “Taking a Look into the Future for East Campus.”

The University continues to try to partner with private sector developers for the adaptive reuse of buildings on East Campus. Miller will offer an update.

Wednesday, May 8

Wolf Lake Fish Hatchery, 2 p.m.

The group will visit the Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery Interpretive Center (easy walking tour optional). This 7,000 square-foot interpretive center offers visitors a fascinating look at Michigan’s fish and fisheries management efforts. The center is located on the grounds of the Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery, just eight miles west of Kalamazoo. Completed in 1983, this modern facility and the adjacent show pond provide great adventure for anyone interested in the diverse assortment of fish that call the Great Lakes state home. Visitors can view an assortment of the fish found in Michigan from the show pond.

A long observation platform provides close viewing opportunities into the clear water of the pond. Inside the interpretive center, one can learn about all aspects of fisheries science through displays, multimedia programs and interpretive materials. Learn about the habits and biology of fish as well as the history of fishing in Michigan—from Native Americans to the present.

Rain or shine, meet at the Interpretive Center and wear your walking shoes if you want to explore.

Directions

From the junction of M-43 and US-131 in Kalamazoo, take M-43 west about 6 miles to the large hatchery road signs. Turn left (south) on Hatchery Road and proceed to the second drive on the right, which leads to the interpretive center.