Where Do We Go From Here?

As far as 2001 is concerned, we can say "mission accomplished." The cabin has its new roof. The Sigurd Olson birthday dinner and the writers/readers workshop symposium at Ely were fun and successful. Here is our second newsletter. Not on the agenda, but very important, has been the election of an additional six members of the Board of Directors who bring with them new talents , energy, and enthusiasm.

So what next? This fall, the new Board meets to plan the 2002 program and budget, and to sketch out the strategy for the next few years. Many have recommended that we host a second writers symposium next year, again at Ely or, alternatively, in the Twin Cities. There will be another Sigurd Olson birthday dinner, of course. How about the Twin Cities this time? The newsletter will keep you up-to-date.

Do you have any ideas or recommendations about opportunities for wilderness education that the Listening Point Foundation could undertake? Let us know and we will discuss it at the Board meeting.

It is also time for a serious review of the future role of the Listening Point Foundation, whether to cut back, to remain the same, or to expand our programs. In other words, after three years, it is time for a serious reality check and course correction if necessary. We will keep you informed and, again, would like to know what you think.

The crucial factor, of course, is money. If there is a shady side to the picture it is that opportunities, like participation in the Seventh World Wilderness Congress, are missed, while there is so much to do that needs to be done and done now.