In March and April of each year, democracy is in action at Osher, as elections for Council and Officers of the Executive Committee (every other year) take place. This year, 5 seats on our 15-member Council are open.

As a program run by volunteers, nothing at Osher is more important than continuing to develop strong, effective leaders. Fortunately, our membership contains many who have been leaders in their prior careers, and who could lend their many talents to our operation. Our current program is in fine shape, producing great education at low cost, as well as expanding social opportunities, theater, music and art. However, as is to be expected in a program for seniors, all of us are aging, and we need to train those who will lead us in the future.

A perfect way to learn how the program works is to serve in our legislature, the Council. I would encourage every one of you to run for one of the open seats, even if you are a first year member. The basic time commitment is minimal: 12 hours per year. Monthly meetings are on Friday afternoons when parking is easy. At the meetings you will review agendas prepared by the Executive Committee. What we need are people to review those presentations, ask questions, help us develop the ideas, and to add their own suggestions or ideas. If anything strikes your fancy, you may be asked to join or form a sub-committee to pursue that topic. Currently our nominating committee is seeking nominees. As Amy Patterson set out in a recent e-mail, you may nominate yourself by having a petition signed by 7 other students, submitting a 200 word biography, and having your picture taken in the office.

I hope to see you on the ballot! Talk to me, Amy, or any member of the Executive Committee if you have questions. Finally, if anyone asks you to sign their petition, please do so. Your signature is not an endorsement, but only allows them to appear on the ballot.

In addition, our seven standing committees all need new members. The committees are listed in the front of the Osher catalog. In committees, the time commitment is also minimal, but vital to making our events and activities successful. Please sign up for one or more! Remember, if after trying it out you don’t like it, or want to try another committee, you are free to leave or change at any time. Please contact me, Amy or committee chairs to sign up. Chairpersons will be glad to welcome you, and it is another great way to meet new friends!

Mike