TAMEC

Register for TAM in San Antonio - FREE!!

2012-01-27T13:05:00.001-06:00

Oh good, I have your attention!

TAMEC is offering a registration scholarship for the 2012 TAM Annual Meeting in San Antonio to one lucky winner and I didn't want you to miss out on the opportunity to apply! This is a "complete package" scholarship so you won't miss a thing - just think of all you'll learn.

Application details are below - your scholarship is just an email away. Don't forget that the deadline is NEXT FRIDAY - FEBRUARY 3rd!!

The following TAM Affinity Groups are offering scholarships to the TAM Annual Meeting. To apply please send a resume, references, and a one-page letter stating reasons for applying for the scholarship to admin@texasmuseums.org. Application deadline is February 3, 2012.Email applications are preferred.

Texas Association of Museums Educators’ Committee (TAMEC) is offering one “complete package” registration scholarship valued at $375. Applicants must be a member of TAM and TAMEC and currently employed in an educational capacity at a facility in Texas. Recipients will be responsible for their travel, lodging, and incidental costs. Previous recipients are not eligible.
The following TAM Affinity Groups are offering scholarships to the TAM Annual Meeting. To apply please send a resume, references, and a one-page letter stating reasons for applying for the scholarship to admin@texasmuseums.org. Application deadline is February 3, 2012.Email applications are preferred.

http://www.prismnet.com/~tam/annualmeeting2012/scholarships.html

- Allison@HMNS

TAMEC Workshop - January 23, 2012

2011-12-19T14:03:00.002-06:00

Everyone,

Please save Monday, January 23 from 10 am-3 pm for the annual TAMEC Workshop! Our friends at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin have agreed to host us once again.

Beginning in 2012 all TAM Affinity group membership dues and registration fees will go through the TAM office. To keep things simple during the transition period, we've decided to make the 2012 TAMEC Workshop free.

So, please plan to join us in Austin next month. Details will be sent via email later this week. We'll do a TAMEC business meeting in the morning from 10 am-12 noon and then lunch from noon-1 pm (on your own in The Story of Texas Cafe). On the business meeting agenda: update on TAMEC By-Laws, a review of plans for the TAM Annual Meeting and a conversation about TAMEC Board elections.

Following lunch join us for a workshop focused on social media in the museum: Making Social Work: Join the Conversation without Overwhelming Your Staff or Volunteers. Juan Garcia, New Media Manager at The University of Texas Faculty Innovation Center will jump start our strategy session about effective use of new media in the museum field.

Everyone is welcome to the social media conversation, so please encourage other museum professionals to come! Registration will be open on the TAM website and will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Happy holidays and we look forward to seeing you in Austin,

Sharron Conrad,
Acting TAMEC Chair

Visitor Input on Exhibits?

2011-08-23T17:01:00.002-05:00

Hey TAMEC,

Evelyn Montgomery of Dallas Heritage Village sits on TAM Program Committee and she's looking for panelists to speak about visitor input on exhibits at the 2012 Annual Meeting in San Antonio (March 27-30, 2012).

Can you help? Here's the request for help and Evelyn's contact info:

"I am looking for speakers for a possible session on using visitor input to create exhibits, at the 2012 TAM conference. I think this is a topic many attendees would find interesting, but I am having difficulty finding anyone in our TAM community who has carried out such a project. If you have successfully, or less successfully, used visitor input to write labels, design exhibits, select artifacts or any other aspect of exhibit creation and would be willing to speak about it, please contact me."

Evelyn Montgomery, Ph. D.
Curator of Exhibits and Collections
Dallas Heritage Village
214-413-3666
emontgomery@dallasheritagevillage.org

TAMEC Dues, Elections and By-Laws

2011-08-17T09:04:00.002-05:00

Hello TAMEC!

It was great to see everyone at the TAM Annual Meeting! If you weren't able to join us, here's an update on what we discussed at the TAMEC Affinity Group session:

• The IRS (and TAM’s auditors) have required more oversight of the organization’s affinity groups. This means that, beginning in 2012, TAM will be collecting membership dues on our behalf. Details on how this process will work will be finalized between now and early 2012.

• We will hold off on collecting TAMEC dues until this process has been determined. All of you will be considered members of TAMEC until the new process for dues collection is clarified.

• I have agreed to serve as interim Chair of TAMEC until formal elections can be held at the March Annual Meeting. Katie Smith will serve as Vice-Chair. All other members of the TAMEC Board—Millie Vanover, Mikey Sproat, Kathryn Mitchell and Allison Kellogg—will continue to serve in their roles until elections.

• All of TAM’s affinity groups will need to revisit their By-Laws as a result of the new policies. “By-Laws” will, in future, be referred to as “Operating Procedures”, since all of the affinity groups ultimately must abide by TAM’s By-Laws, which override those of the affinity groups.

- A Sub-Committee has been appointed to review the existing TAMEC By-Laws and will recommend changes. The Sub-Committee will share its recommendations at the 2102 Annual Meeting.

- The Sub-Committee consists of myself, Mikey Sproat (Sam Houston Memorial Museum) and Diane Bernhardt (Dr. Pepper Museum). Melissa Prycer (Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park; TAM Council member) will also serve as an advisory member of this Sub-Committee.

- Mikey Sproat has agreed to share updates on the Sub-Committee’s progress on this blog. (Thank you, Mikey!)

Please let me know if you have any questions. Such a period of change, but also a great opportunity to reorganize so that we better serve the needs of museum educators in Texas!

Thank you all for your input and support, and please keep an eye on the blog for updates on the Sub-Committee’s progress.

Sharron
sharronc@jfk.org

TAMEC Educator of the Year - Melissa Prycer

2011-08-10T18:01:00.006-05:00

It was great to see everyone at the TAMEC Affinity Group meeting last Thursday at the TAM Annual Meeting! I had a moment to talk about the process of accepting nominations and determining the TAMEC Educator of the Year but because we wanted to keep the award a surprise until the Awards Luncheon we did not announce the winner on Thursday afternoon... so this is for everyone who missed the luncheon:

A big congratulations to this year's TAMEC Educator of the Year...

Melissa Prycer of Dallas Heritage Village!

I wanted to highlight a few things that jumped out at me from Melissa's nomination -

"Melissa truly cares about her museum and her profession."

"...her love of the museum shows in the many hours she devotes to it, the care with which she plans programs and her care in dealing with volunteers, visitors, and other staff."

"She is not afraid of innovation, and is constantly looking for new ideas."

The recipient of the Educator of the Year award does not make a speech at the awards luncheon but here are a few words from Melissa:

"I am incredibly lucky to have a job that I love - and to get recognized for the work that I do is icing on the cake! Since beginning at the Village in 2004, TAMEC has been a part of my professional life. The workshops, networking, and sessions at the Annual Meeting have been invaluable tools as I've adjusted existing programs or implemented new programs. I wouldn't be half the educator I am today without that community, and it's my honor to continue exchanging ideas, advice, and stories with them. It is truly an honor to be recognized as Educator of the Year."

We are so proud to have Melissa as part of our TAMEC community! Congratulations!

- Allison @hmns

Irving, TX - Here we come!

2011-08-03T01:32:00.004-05:00

I'm gathering my stuff and heading to Irving, TX for the Texas Association of Museums (TAM) annual meeting -- will you be there?

The TAMEC affinity group meeting will be held on Thursday, August 4th at 3:45pm - please join us at the meeting and introduce yourself! We always love the opportunity to meet our fellow Museum Educators and chat about all of our exciting new projects and Museum happenings!

So go ahead and mark it on your calendar to join us at 3:45pm at the TAMEC meeting!

Can't wait to see you there!

- Allison @hmns

Session Proposals for 2012 TAM Annual Meeting - Due July 15!

2011-06-27T10:03:00.003-05:00

Here's a message from Melissa Prycer, a TAM Council Member (and former TAMEC Chair):

With TAM in August this year, several things have been thrown slightly off-kilter. A big one: the program committee for the 2012 conference has their first meeting on July 8. Which is before our 2011 conference! As a colleague pointed out “I always get my good ideas for sessions after the conference, not before!” So they really, really need our help. Proposals are just barely trickling in.

So, if you have an idea, get cracking!

Here's a link to the Session Proposal Application. Deadline is July 15th.

And in the mean time, if any of you might be willing to speak on some sessions ideas I have, let me know!

My ideas:

Teen Volunteer Programs: I want to feature our Junior Historian program (they’re opening their first exhibit next week!), but there need to be some other voices. And it doesn’t have to be from a history museum perspective.

Budget Realities: Just about all of us are now working with smaller budgets, smaller staff, smaller everything. As an educator, how do you decide what to cut? How do you “make do” in this new economic reality?

Follow up with Melissa at: MPrycer@dallasheritagevillage.org

It's that time again...

2011-06-13T11:45:00.003-05:00

SUMMER CAMP IS HERE!! We are just finishing up week two and things are going pretty well - we will have a full house (approaching 600 kiddos) when July hits so before ALL the kids get here I wanted to check in with my fellow Museum Educators and see what your summer plans are for camps or other summer programs!

We are lucky to be an air-conditioned facility in the Houston heat but I know that is not a luxury everyone is afforded at their facility - let us know what you're up to!

Is anyone offering Overnight stays for families at their facility this summer?

Single Day camps?

Family Workshops?

Special Summer series of films, lectures or events?

Stay cool and I'm looking forward to seeing you all in August at TAM in Irving, TX!

*Allison @ HMNS

TAMEC Scholarship

2011-05-03T13:59:00.009-05:00

TAMEC Scholarship Reminder

We wanted to remind you that TAM/TAMEC members can apply for a $300 scholarship to be used towards registration for the annual TAM conference Aug. 4 - 6 2011 in Irving, TX.

Application Due: July 1, 2011

Qualifications

1. You must be a paid member of TAM or TAMEC

2. You can not be a board member of TAMEC

3. You must be employed in an educational capacity at a facility in Texas

4. You must submit the following application by the designated deadline to be

considered.

Guidelines

1. The TAMEC Board reserves the right to determine the recipient of the scholarship

2. Scholarship recipients this year are not eligible for the same scholarship next year.

Apply here or for more information and to receive an application, please contact Kathryn at 325-762-2269.

TAM Council Elections - Have You Voted?

2011-02-11T08:42:00.002-06:00

Hey TAMEC...there is still time to vote in the TAM Council Election!

Polling for the 2011 Council elections is in progress. The deadline is February 18 and all TAMEC members should vote today. Voting is the best possible way to ensure that your interests, needs and concerns are heard!

This election will fill positions for five officers and four councillors-at-large for a two-year term beginning in March 2011. Click here for the ballot. We have an excellent slate of candidates to choose from.

Results will be announced on March 25, 2011 at the TAM Annual Business Meeting in Austin.

Technology in place at your Museum?

2011-02-01T13:16:00.002-06:00

A link to the New Media Consortium's Horizon Report - the Museum Edition (via @frenchlegation on twitter). Interesting information here and some additional resources noted as well.

What new technologies does your Museum already have in place? What do you see on the horizon of your organization in the next year? next 5 years?

- Allison @HMNS

What's in store for 2011?

2011-01-12T12:48:00.005-06:00

Happy New Year to all of our blog readers out there! The beginning of a new year is a good time to set goals, start fresh, look to the future and get ready to hit the ground running - what do you have in store for 2011?

For me, returning to the Museum after the holidays is always a little daunting... I always have a little bit of that feeling that I've been sick from school, have to catch up on a lot of classwork and still be ready for the big test coming up. Yikes! There's no time to stop and think, the to-do lists seem to be getting longer rather than shorter and I have a feeling that Summer camp is actually just around the corner...

I really enjoyed meeting some of you at the TAMEC January Workshop in Austin at the Bob Bullock Museum. It was good to hear what's going on at other institutions - big and small across the state! I'm excited to stay in touch with you all via the blog and see you at the TAM annual meeting in August and catch up on what you're up to. I have set a few Museum related 2011 goals for myself and I thought I'd share them with you here and see if you all have any goals you'd like to share or things you'd like to see happen in your Museum or others this year!

1. Learn more about my Museum. As I get tangled in my work in the Education area of the Museum and the days have a tendency to melt away. I'd like to take more tours of our exhibitions with docents this year, see more of the IMAX offerings, and even take more walks around the Butterfly Center to see what's blooming and fluttering around.

2. Learn more about other Texas Museums. I've met so many interesting Museum folks through TAM and TAMEC but I think it's time for me to get out and start visiting them! My vacation days usually stack up until December due to our heavy weekend programming schedules, overnights, etc so maybe I need to work on taking some weekend Museum road trips this year!

3. Stay Connected. There are so many great museum educators and programs across our great state. It would be nice for us to keep the lines of communication open and maybe even get some local partnerships going when it fits the project to do so! I'm dreaming of maybe a monthly group meeting of museum educators for coffee and a tour of one exhibit/museum here in Houston - any of you have anything like this going in your area?

Now it's your turn - what have you got coming up on the horizon for 2011? What would you like to see happening in your programming or your city!?

Stay in touch!

- Allison @HMNS

Adult Education Program Coordinator - Job Opportunity

2011-01-10T11:42:00.003-06:00

The Texas State Historical Association is seeking an Adult Education Program Coordinator to provide responsible coordination of educational programs aimed at promoting history education among adults with an emphasis on Texas history educators. Position is offered on a contractual basis with the possibility of future full employment contingent on performance and funding. This is a full-time, contract position at the UNT campus in Denton.

Essential Duties:

* Assist the Director of Educational Services with developing, planning, scheduling and implementing activities, meetings and workshops for educator training, the Walter P. Webb Society, and other educational resource programs.

* Moderate editorial responsibilities in addition to correspondence preparation for related programs.

* Assist with recruitment of program participants and sponsors.

* Coordinate and review work of clerical and administrative staff performing data entry on participant databases and assisting in production of meeting information.

* Participate in promotion and planning of current and future education initiatives.

* Assist with meeting management for TSHA events.

* Up to 20% travel is required.

* Perform all other duties as assigned.

Compensation:

Salary is $50,000-$62,500 depending on experience. Benefits are not included as this is a contract position.

For immediate consideration, please e-mail or fax cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to: stevecure@tshaonline.org or FAX:(940) 369-5248

Additional details can be found on the TSHA website.

TAMEC Workshop 2011

2010-12-21T16:26:00.004-06:00

Will you be there?

Survivor: Museum Educator Edition! Crafting budgets, writing grants, planning fundraisers (and living to tell the tale)

Monday, January 24, 2011
The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum
9 am - 3 pm

AGENDA

Networking

Welcome and Introductions

Budgeting 101 Using MS Excel, Jennifer Wijangco, Arthouse at the Jones Center

Grant Opportunities: A Panel Discussion, Allison Supancic, Regional Foundation Library, Eric Lupfer, Humanities Texas, Lisa Avra, Texas Historical Commission, Laura M. Wiegand, Texas Commission on the Arts

Lunch at The Story of Texas Café

Outside of the Box Fundraisers - Brainstorming and Sharing

TAMEC Business Meeting - TAMEC Chair, Jennifer Rogers

Wrap Up and Evaluation

Need Accommodations in Austin?
A small block of rooms has been reserved at The Holiday Inn Town Lake (20 N. IH 35, Austin, TX 78701)

Call 1-888-615-0509 and give code MUS to reserve at the $109 rate (for two double beds or one king). Or click here to book online.

Rate good through January 10th. Includes airport shuttle, roof-top pool, and complimentary parking and wireless.

Ready to register?

Check out the TAMEC Workshop Registration form on the right (under Links of Interest).

See you there!

Soap, and your museum's collection.

2010-12-16T14:50:00.004-06:00

We have several projects happening at our museum. Some are exhibits, some are grounds, some are education, some are everything rolled into one.

We just moved (with the help of a contract house moving company) a 150 year old log cabin onto our grounds. The cabin was not moved piece by piece, but intact, minus the roof, porches, and chimneys. To get the structure through the rather narrow entrance, the truck with cabin in tow was not lined up correctly to make it in one pass. The solution was to jack up the back axle and place the the trailer frame on railroad ties. The second to top piece was rubbed with bar soap, then the trailer frame was slid across the lumber, moving the back end of the trailer enough to gain access into the entrance. The moving process took the better part of one day to transport the cabin from the entrance of the grounds onto it final location in the middle of the park. The bar soap solved the problem, and at the end of the day, we moved a cabin...with our own hands.

History can be taught through your museum's collection only as you are able to handle the objects you are charged with preserving. I'm not advocating teaching art by taking the Mona Lisa off the wall and using it as a hands-on study guide. I simply think that museums can draw a healthy balance between this unthinkable (if not far-reaching) example and using the museum's collection to teach beyond what we learn from a two dimensional book.

The task of preserving an object does take on a significant priority for museums. Yet if museums simply place this object on a shelf and white-glove dusts the object indefinitely, museums lose their informational stewardship (google it). They lose the chance for people to know more about the object; the object loses its context; the very real object become no more important than reading about the object in a book.

Here's a charge for the new year. Get one object off a shelf, and give someone the opportunity to have a hands-on history (or art, or science) lesson. Shalom and happy holidays yall --

Michael C. "Mikey" Sproat
Sam Houston Memorial Museum, Huntsville, Texas

P.S. Next time yall make it through Huntsville, stop by and check out our new (150 year old) cabin. Not only does it have a great story, but I'll also tell you about the soap. -- Mikey.

All a-twitter about the holidays?

2010-12-13T16:43:00.008-06:00

The holidays are here -- you can't deny it! The holiday tunes are piped into every shopping center, children bounce through the Museum halls with jingle bell necklaces and rustly coats, we even got a little wintery weather here in Houston this week which is a change! For my the education department here at HMNS December means a time to recharge and get geared up for the new year of programming.

With laptops and smartphones always within an arm's reach it's hard for me to get away from my Museum world and social network... which is really not a bad thing! I have really come to use social networking, twitter specifically in my case, to stay on top of things going on in my city and neighborhood, the news, my friends and especially Museums and the non-profit world of course! When I'm not at my Museum busy with my projects I'm always jazzed to hear about other institutions ongoing projects, discoveries, new exhibits and what sort of programming folks in my position elsewhere are offering!

So do YOU Tweet?

So many Museums and non-profits are on Twitter these days and it has become a viable way to raise funds or solicit donations that keeping the social network up to speed on what your agency is up to can really work to your advantage! Even TAMEC is on twitter (@tamedcomm) and we want to follow you and your institution! If you're not following @TAMedcomm on twitter please do and we'll follow back - we want to know what is going on with your Museum, in your area of study, at non-profits you support and we want to share it with the rest of the TAMEC community.

If you are new to twitter and looking for folks to follow to keep up to speed as a Museum Educator - here are a few Texas Museums, Educational organizations and professional organizations that we are following on Twitter - if you know of some we're not following please leave a comment so that we can correct that!

Houston Museum of Natural Science: @hmns
Houston Center for Contemporary Craft: @crafthouston
Dallas Museum of Art: @dallasmuseumart
Texas Ranger Museum: @txrangermuseum
Dallas Museum of Natural Science: @dallasmns
Kimbell Art Museum: @kimbellart
Texas Education Agency: @teainfo
American Association of Museums: @aamers
The Health Museum: @thehealthmuseum

I hope each and every one of you has a relaxing and rejuvinating holiday season and you get a little break even if your institution is having winter camp, family events, extending holidays hours!

Stay warm and I'll be back on the blog after the new year!
- Allison @HMNS

TAMEC Scholarship Reminder

2010-12-07T12:34:00.004-06:00

We wanted to remind you starting May 1, 2011 you can apply for a $300 scholarship to be used towards registration for the annual TAM conference Aug. 4-6 2011 in Irving, TX.

Application Due: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Qualifications

1. You must be a paid member of TAM and TAMEC

2. You can not be a board member of TAMEC

3. You must be employed in an educational capacity at a facility in Texas

4. You must submit the following application by the designated deadline to be

considered.

Guidelines

1. The TAMEC Board reserves the right to determine the recipient of the scholarship

2. Scholarship recipients this year are not eligible for the same scholarship next year.

We will post the application May 1, 2011 and all applications must be received via email.

Workshop Registration Form posted

2010-12-04T11:19:00.003-06:00

The Annual Workshop Registration form has been posted. You can access it here.

Date: January 24
Location: Bob Bullock State History Museum
Cost: $25 for members, $30 non-members
Theme: Survivor: Museum Educator Edition--Crafting Budgets, Writing Grants, Planning Fundraisers and Living to Tell the Tale

Employment Announcement...

2010-12-03T13:13:00.000-06:00

Curator/Collections Manager

McKissick Museum, University of South Carolina
Columbia, SC

McKissick Museum at the University of South Carolina is seeking to fill its position of Curator/Collections Manager position. The Museum is a unit within the College of Arts and Science and is an important part of the University’s goal to achieve excellence in teaching, research, and service. McKissick’s primary focus is on multidisciplinary projects that interpret regional culture and the environment. It presents six to eight original exhibitions each year based on the Museum’s diverse and extensive collections and/or on academic research initiatives.

Job duties: Coordinates scheduling, d ocumentation and registration activities in conjunction with the Museum’s exhibition and collection departments. Supervises the loan of objects and artifacts, performs or oversees related legal and registration duties, maintains database, and teaches when requested in the Museum Management program.

Qualifications: Master’s degree in history, museology or related field; or Bachelor’s degree in history, museology, or a related field and 2 years related experience.

Skills and Knowledge: Specialized academic knowledge in one of the Museum’s collecting disciplines. Knowledgeable about evaluation techniques for condition, preservation, storage and exhibition of objects; knowledge of accepted museum registration techniques, legal matters related to loans of objects and policies relating to photographic rights & reproduction; knowledge of proper object handling, installation and packing techniques, and transportation methods applicable to museum objects. Knowledgeable about records management, collections databases, and graphic programs. Must have excellent communication skills. Must be able to walk up and down stairs, climb ladders and lift up to 40 pounds. Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Please direct any questions to Jill Koverman at koverman@mailbox.sc.edu or (803) 777-3708.
Candidates must apply via the University of South Carolina Human Resources website: http://hr.sc.edu/employ.html

Employment Announcement...

2010-12-03T13:10:00.000-06:00

Education Assistant, Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, Corpus Christi, Texas

Posted: 11/30/2010
Closes: 12/17/2010

Summary of Responsibilities: Under the general supervision of the Museum Educator, the education assistant presents science topics and programs to the visiting public, youth groups, and school groups.

Responsibilities include: Presenting a natural science Program to all CCISD 5th grade classes. Inputting information and classroom resources for teachers on the Museum's education website. Update education and program information on the Museum's main website. Care and feeding of live animal collection (non-poisonous reptiles/amphibians) and maintenance of habitats and equipment. Incorporates live animal collection into science programming. Assists with group and educational group scheduling. Works as part of a team to apply for grants, sponsorship, in-kind donations for science programming.

Required Qualifications: Work requires knowledge of a specific vocational, administrative, or technical nature which may be obtained with a two year Associate Degree, diploma, or equivalent from a college, technical, business, vocational or correspondence school. Bachelor's degree preferred in biology or other science related field. Must have 18 months related experience or any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience. Must have a valid driver's license at time of application and at time of hire.

Compensation: $1220.30 Biweekly or $31727.80 Annually How to apply: Apply online at http://www.cctexas.com/ Jobs online

Getting Things Done

2010-11-30T08:55:00.002-06:00

The great irony of my life right now is that I am reading Getting Things Done by David Allen and yet I'm behind on getting things done. This wonderful guide to stress-free productivity holds great promise and I highly recommend reading it. The first chunk of the book is written almost like a sales pitch, but if you can survive that and get to the actual how to organize yourself to achieve more with less stress part then it is fantastic.

The book didn't help me get this review done last Thursday as I should have, but it is making it so I can see the top of my desk 75% more often than I have in the past--this despite the fact that I am now doing four times more work. If that isn't an endorsement I don't know what is.

Happy Holidays,
Sarah

An Old Museum Educator

2010-11-22T14:38:00.002-06:00

This is difficult to admit, but I am getting on "up in age." That means old! My grandson loves to sit on my lap and play with the loose skin on my neck. I write this, not to feel sorry for myself or have others say, "You are only as old as you feel" or other such sayings, but to address an issue I am dealing with as a TAMEC member and officer.

We are all very busy. Recently our museum has lost two employees and unfortunately, they will not be replaced any time soon due to the economy. So now our employees are busier than ever. My issue is that I have very little time to devote to blogs, facebook, twitters, pings, all all the other social medias. And to tell you the truth, I do not know what most of them are (except facebook where I keep up with my grandsons lives). But my biggest problem is that I have no idea how to work most of them and do not have time to spend figuring it all out. I go to this blog through instructions from sweet Kathryn Mitchell and write something. I appreciate Jennifer asking all of us to blog once a month. Wouldn't it be cool if we actually heard from some of our membership besides our officers. Maybe we do, and I do not know how to access it. And if we don't, I do not know how to change this outcome.

I appreciate the work that has gone into evaulating TAMEC recently. And, unfortunately, I do not have answers. I have a suggestion about our workshop that might or might not work. I love going to the workshop in January - but Austin is almost like in another world from Amarillo/Canyon. So far, I have been able to attend each year as my director thinks it is important. But I know others who cannot attend since it is so far away. What I am leading up to is that maybe we could make other members of TAMEC feel more included if we rotated the workshop around the state. South, east, west, and north Texas. Perhaps not everyone could attend each and every workshop, but maybe some who cannot attend every year in Austin could attend one of them. Just a thought! And it would be so cool to see museums where other TAMEC educators work.

I believe in order to keep and increase our TAMEC membership that it is imperative to discover ways that others can feel included. Texas is very BIG which makes inclusion very difficult. Do any of you have suggestions that might help with inclusion?

Millie Vanover
Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum

We need your input...

2010-11-20T18:48:00.002-06:00

Dear TAMEC Members, TAM Members, Fellow Educators and All Lurkers...

TAMEC has been working on a self assessment tool and we NEED your input. We've had a series of meetings which has resulted in the attached information. We've been talking about the different programs we offer and our membership needs. The results of the meetings are summarized in the "Content Analysis Summary" report. What we really need help with is determining our outcomes. Please take some time and review the our outcomes which are list below:

Outcome – Increase Membership
To increase membership of TAMEC by 10% annually; until TAMEC achieves 30% of TAM membership by 2015.

Outcome – Increase Awareness
To increase awareness of TAMEC services and programs …

Outcome – Increase Participation
To increase workshop attendance to 50 people by…
To increase BlogSpot comments…
To increase Annual Business Meeting attendance…
To increase submission for scholarship…
To increase award recommendations…
To increase mentorships…

Outcome – Increase Accessibility
To increase regional contacts in Texas…
To develop virtual workshops…
To provide regional workshops…
To increase the number of scholarships…
To increase the types of scholarships (i.e. to the workshop or include evening events to conference/networking lunch…)…

Outcome – Address the Needs of Clients
To document and address the needs of museum educators…
To advocate for relevant educational sessions during the annual conference…

Outcome – Increase Resource Sharing
To increase collaboration with other affinity groups…

Outcome – Maintain Flexibility
To create activities which require minimal scheduling and funds…

Outcome – Develop Services
To develop additional services…

Outcome – Prioritize Objectives
To determine which outcomes are a priority…

Outcome – Increase Connections
To increase networking opportunities…
To increase networking opportunities with other affinity groups…
To develop a virtual community network…

Outcome – Increase Revenue
To increase revenue to support additional scholarships and workshops…
To increase revenue to underwrite keynote speaker at TAM Conference…

These are the different objectives we've discussed. Please provide your perspectives in comments or email me directly. If you would like to download the "Outcomes Worksheet" you can. We would appreciate any other feedback you give us.

I would like to have your responses by November 23, 2010 before everyone is embroiled in the Thanksgiving holidays or the November 29th at the latest. We have a very narrow window of time to complete this.

We would really value your input. I will also be on the TAM Education Committee Chat Room, http://www.chatzy.com/800997988620, from 8:30 am to 4:00 on Tuesday and welcome the opportunity to discuss any of this information with you. If you need procedures to access the chat room, click here.

Sincerely Hoping You Respond,
Jennifer Rogers, TAMEC Chair
jenncrogers@gmail.com

Virtual Exhibits and Nueva York

2010-11-17T14:52:00.003-06:00

I heard a radio broadcast about a new exhibit collaboration between El Museo del Barrio and the New York Historical Society called Nueva York, 1613-1945. The exhibit deals with the long connection between New York and immigrants from Spain and Latin America. I really wish that I could head back east to see it for myself, but sadly, I probably won't get to New York before the exhibit closes in January.

This got me thinking about virtual exhibits, and how sometimes being able to visit online is better than not getting there at all. How do you feel about virtual exhibits - are you a fan or a foe?

Even though the exhibit focuses on New York's story, Texas museum educators might want to check it out, especially if you're planning programs on immigration to the Lone Star State. If you get to New York before the exhibit closes on January 9th, and you get to El Museum del Barrio, do report back!

Texas: The Big Picture Symposium

2010-11-11T17:03:00.003-06:00

History Educators, Texas History Enthusiasts and Museum Planners are encouraged to attend Texas: The Big Picture Symposium in Gonzalez, Texas.

Friday, January 14 from 4:30-9 pm

LARGER THAN LIFE, The Story of Buck Winn
by director Richard Kidd

LARGER THAN LIFE, the Story of Buck Winn is a new documentary on the life and art of James Buchanan Winn (1905-1979) produced by the Hays County Historical Commission. Buck lived and worked in Wimberley from 1940 until his death. This documentary is the first collection of all of his existing work shot on location in the Southwest. Murals, bas-relief sculptures, inventions, and architectural designs and installations are all covered. Buck specialized in building decoration, and all of his work was considered "larger than life." The documentary was directed by Richard Kidd and produced by Kate Johnson, both members of the Hays County Historical Commission.

Saturday, January 15 from 8 am-4 pm

TEXAS: The Big Picture
(Based on the Revised Texas Education Agency TEKS Periodization for Texas History)

A panel led by Frank de la Teja, Chair, Texas State University Department of History

Take a trip back to the first residents of Texas, early settlement, revolutions, the republic, and statehood…all before lunch! Interact with fellow Texas history enthusiasts, teachers, and museum volunteers as we review the age of oil, civil rights, and contemporary Texas as we plan new exhibits and learning activities for the youth of Texas.

No Registration Fees!

Contact: Glenda Gordon at info@gonzalesmemorialmuseum.com for more information and to reserve your space.

Need accommodations? Block Room Rates while supply lasts at Sleep Inn or call the hotel directly at 830-672-1888. Request Texas History Conference and be sure to specify one or two nights.

2010-11-11T15:17:00.002-06:00

Veterans Day

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veterans_Day

I learned something new today. A friend asked me a question a couple days ago about saluting during the pledge to the Texas flag. I did some research and found that all civilians should stand at attention while facing the flag with their right hand placed over their heart. I already knew this, but I found out a lot more information than what I first knew. There are different saluting rules for Boy scout groups, fraternal organizations, and military personnel, depending on pledges for different countries, branches of the military, and even if you are holding a sword or gun. These differences got me thinking about how important national patriotism is to the United States, in relationship to citizens from other countries and their national loyalty.

To make a long story short, there are over 22 million Veterans in the United States today. Without going into the details, there is symbolism in every gesture (like a salute), in the colors and shapes that make up flags (like the Texas and U.S. flag), and in the daily operations of the U.S. government that pay special tribute to our Veterans. Take time to say the pledge to the U.S. and Texas flag today; take time to seek out a Veteran, through a hand shake or an email to someone abroad, and thank them today.

And a special thanks to my brother, LCDR Rob Sproat, USN, in San Antonio, and also to my other brother, MAJ Matt Sproat, USMC, in Pensacola FL, who happens to have just had his first baby boy, born yesterday (a Marine Officer's son born on the Marine Corps birthday!)

Michael C. "Mikey" Sproat
Sam Houston Memorial Museum, Huntsville, Texas

What's your best 15 minute program pitch?

2010-11-10T15:09:00.003-06:00

We're planning for the Museum Educators Open House here in Houston on January 22nd -- a great event where we offer a conference style event (9am -1pm) for Educators in the area (or outside of the area if you want to join in the fun!) offering free admission to the participating organizations for participants throughout the day. The Houston Museum of Natural Science (my museum) is a host museum so we are hosting 15 or so organizations who are here to share information.

Presenting organizations are set up with information booths about their organization and some of them do presentation sessions in the classrooms but they are limited to just about 30 minutes to give some info about their program, do a demonstration or teach a quick lesson and answer questions if they can. We are all so excited about our programming it's difficult to ask a group to simplify their programming into 15-20 minutes and hook the educators in and leave them wanting more for their students through either field trip or outreach program bookings.

Think for a moment, if you only had 15 minutes to pitch your programming -- what activity would you choose? What key phrases define your program goals? What can you offer a teacher that other organizations cannot? What do you do better than other organizations in your field!?

Call for Proposals

2010-11-05T08:23:00.002-05:00

CALL FOR PROPOSALS

Federation Rhetoric Symposium, March 9-11, 2011
Texas A&M-Commerce, Commerce, Texas
Writing Democracy: A Rhetoric of (T)Here

Increasingly, humanities scholars and educators are attending to the local, the everyday, the public, and the“ordinary.” Trends like these in rhetoric and composition suggest the field has taken what Paula Matthieu has called
“the public turn” (Tactics of Hope, 2005) and foreground the real-world implications of and applications for our work. Such trends also illuminate tensions and stark contrasts between constructs like public and private (Welch,Living Room, 2008), local and global (Gold, Rhetoric at the Margins, 2008), here and there, us and them (Duffy,Writing From These Roots, 2007).

It is in this sense that local rhetoric both connects--at times literally--and separates us from the rest of the world.Thus, March 9-11, at Texas A&M-Commerce, we bring together scholars, researchers, historians, students,journalists, archivists, artists, and teachers to examine our various and expanding notions of (t)here with the following questions in mind:

How do we “write democracy”?
How do we identify the local, the global, and democracy in everyday contexts?
To what end(s) might we identify and draw boundaries around here/there? us/them? local/global? What role does
this identification play in a participatory democracy?
How might local rhetoric enable change (locally, regionally, nationally, globally)?
What is local rhetoric’s role in promoting equity, social justice, and/or democracy for both here and there?
How might local rhetoric hinder equity or other aspects of social justice?
How might local and global rhetoric be embedded in a variety of texts and to what end?

To what extent has “the public turn” across the disciplines, including composition studies, already begun this process through engagement in university-community research and projects? And how might something like the Federal Writers’ Project, part of FDR’s New Deal in the 1930s, serve to link all our projects nationwide to tell America’s story today in its local and global contexts as we enter the second decade of the 21st century?

For the 2011 Federation Rhetoric Symposium, we invite proposals for panels (3-5 presenters), individual papers,poster presentations, video presentations, or other formats that address any aspect of the conference theme, especially with respect to the shifting dimensions of the local rhetorical landscape in an increasingly global world.
We understand this theme to be inherently interdisciplinary in nature, thus we seek proposals in areas that include Rhetoric and Composition, Linguistics, Literacy Studies, Film Studies, Pop Culture, English Studies, and American Studies, and all areas of the Humanities (including Art, History, Drama, Creative Writing). We also request proposals from journalists, librarians, curators, archivists, and others concerned with preservation and access.

Keynote Speakers include Nancy Welch, University of Vermont, David Gold, University of Tennessee-Knoxville, and John Duffy, University of Notre Dame. Pending funding, additional keynoters will include David Jolliffe, University of Arkansas-Lafayette, Jerrold Hirsch, Truman State University, and Michelle Hall Kells, University of New Mexico. Please note conference updates for details about confirmed speakers and other items of interest.

**Deadline for Submissions of 250-Word Abstract: December 20, 2010, with notifications by early January 2011**

Electronic submission preferred.

Email submissions to writingdemocracy@gmail.com

Ground mail submissions to
Shannon Carter, Department of Literature and Languages,
Texas A&M-Commerce,
PO Box 3011,
Commerce, Texas
75429-3011

Question of the Day...

2010-11-02T16:22:00.005-05:00

When creating a fine art program for children what is the biggest don't?

Have you learned a lesson from an experience that you had? We would love to hear your answers!

Thoughts on books...

2010-11-02T10:05:00.000-05:00

Dear Educators,

I'm in the thick of installing an exhibit and lost track of time. In the last month I've found myself referring back to several reference books and it got me thinking. What books do you find yourself using repeatedly? What titles are you curious about? Let me know what I should seek out and review for you!

Sarah

Don't Miss the Opportunity...

2010-10-21T09:05:00.000-05:00

Texas Historical Commission and Texas Association of Museums Present Professional Development Focus on Museum Education

Museum Education: One Size Does Not Fit All
9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
One-Day Workshop $25

Registration continues for the popular workshop series presented by Texas Historical Commission in partnership with TAM. Museum Education: One Size Does Not Fit All addresses the topic of museum education at locations throughout Texas this fall. Beginning with the basics of museum education, such as identifying different types of museum visitors and how they learn, the workshop will include strategies for teaching a broad range of visitors as well as program assessment and evaluation techniques. Ideal for docents, museum educators, and anyone who works directly with the public, this workshop format blends small group interaction, hands-on activities, and large group discussion. Workshop presenter Claudia Ocello, President and CEO of Museum Partners Consulting, brings two decades of experience to her instruction.

November Workshop Schedule
Tuesday, November 2 - Frisco Heritage Museum, 6455 Page St, Frisco
Wednesday, November 3 - Gregg County Historical Museum, 218 North Fredonia St, Longview
Friday, November 5, Orange Public Library, 220 N. 5th St, Orange

Registration Deadline: October 27, 2010. Register Today!

This workshop is part four of the Training for Texas Museums initiative, sponsored by the Texas Historical Commission in partnership with the Texas Association of Museums.

This project was supported in part by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this workshop do not necessarily represent those of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. http://www.imls.gov

Sandy Sage
Program Associate

SAVE THE DATE
2011 TAM Annual Meeting
August 4-6, 2011
Irving, Texas
Texas Association of Museums
Office of Programs and Communications
P.O. Box 204116
Austin, TX 78720
Tel: 512-650-7817
Email: sandy@texasmuseums.org
Website: http://www.texasmuseums.org/

Connecting Kids to History Exhibits? Yes We Can!

2010-10-19T20:05:00.003-05:00

Last month I attended the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) conference in Oklahoma City. I was particularly excited about a pre-conference workshop entitled "Connecting Kids to History with Museum Exhibitions". It was a great session with panelists from the Chicago History Museum, Boston Children's Museum, Amaze Design and the University of North Carolina Greensboro (Department of Public History). The focus was on how history museums develop engaging, interactive, story-based exhibits that meet the needs of younger audiences. It was so thought-provoking! These ideas/reminders might be of interest to all museum educators:

- Kids like sensory stuff – let them smell, taste and touch it (when feasible!).
- Laughter can equal learning.
- Kids want to move – can you incorporate mobility into that history exhibit!
- Keep in mind, kids visiting your museum probably did not choose to be there.
- Stories are effective for both kids and their adult chaperones.
- Kids don’t hide their boredom (adults often do).
- Personalize the past – build bridges to kids’ prior experiences.
- Let them make their own connections – we don’t have all of the answers!
- Start with a historical question; this provides a starting point for everyone.
- Strategies that work well in programs and tours can also be effective in exhibits: compare and contrast; before and after; a moment in time; follow a family story; provide opportunities to make choices.

Labels for children are good when:
…they are written in simple language.
…they are 50 words or less.
…they are written to be read out loud to kids.
…they are designed to inspire action, dialogue or information sharing.
…they leave the door open to future thought.

Bring the kids into your process: prototype and ask what they think!

Questions to consider:
What do you want your visitors to walk away with?
What does learning look like in your museum?
What is your definition of learning?

What’s been your most successful exhibit for kids?

Want to learn more? Check out the presenters’ book, Connecting Kids to History with Museum Exhibitions edited by D. Lynn McRainey and John Russick. Lynn McRainey will be at this year’s McFaddin-Ward House Conference: “Teaching the Past to Ensure a Future”, November 11-13, 2011. Registration is limited but you'll need to check to confirm that space is still available.

Sharron Conrad, TAMEC History Museum Rep
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
sharronc@jfk.org

Grants!

2010-10-14T10:37:00.002-05:00

How many of yall have had practice writing grant proposals and applications? I went to a grant writing workshop about five years ago in Austin and learned quite a bit about grants and the grant writing process. That workshop has helped me out several times since then. I’ve been awarded two grants after writing five grant proposals. The opportunity presented by grants is like a game of chance. You can write the best proposal, have the greatest opportunity for funding, submit the application at the best time, yet still be turned down for various reasons. Given the current economic climate, museums frequently find funding from few and far between fields. So, who writes grants, and, for bonus points, tell us your stories of how your process went.

I’ll start: My last grant for our museum was to Humanities Texas, their “Community Grant” application went very well for a project that helped support our education programming. Want more details? Let’s get the ball rolling…

Michael C. "Mikey" Sproat

Sam Houston Memorial Museum, Huntsville, Texas

If all of your classroom wishes came true...

2010-10-12T11:15:00.000-05:00

We've been working on perfecting our new wing daydreams here in the Houston Museum of Natural Science as the crew continues to dig out the basement of the HMNS addition where the Education Department will move after it is complete! It's so exciting to think of all of the possibilities for our new area but also a little bit daunting since it is has been so long since the Education Department has changed areas I imagine that this is going to be something we need to really love for the long haul, so each decision on a tiny detail counts!

Daydreaming of sinks and storage closets is nice. But then there's always flip down project drying racks and glass front collection displays. Easily santizable surfaces and stain resistant carpeting would be an amazing touch for little kid classes. What's this I hear about projectors dropped from the ceiling that project onto the smartboards!? There are so many incredible options out there for outfitting your Education facility these days - what are your favorites if money was not an issue (eventhough, we all know - it is)? What are your favorite old standards? What items do you currently have that you couldn't live without?

Also, please share some pictures... I'd love to see what you've done with your place!!
- Allison Kellogg @ HMNS

Part II - Job Interviewees and Interviewers...

2010-10-08T15:17:00.000-05:00

Now for some advice from one interviewer to another... Now that I'm thinking about it - I actually don't have a list of advice like I did for the interviewee. Although I'm sure my interviewees could give me some advice. I wish I could talk to them ask them what advice they would give an interviewer?

As an interviewee, what advice would you give an interviewer?

For me, the hardest part about being the interviewer is not the interview itself; rather, it's the aftermath - trying to decide whether to keep or reject the interviewee. If rejection is chosen, how do you reject them? Do you crush them with rejection letters, dismiss them with form letters, or simply ignore them. I remember starting out and sending in resumes and applications, waiting on pins and needles to hear back. I have been a recipient of all three forms of rejections. The crushing rejection letter that said ... well I won't go into it ... and the rejection letter that said a deaf person could never do the job of an educator (I sent a copy of that letter to Deaf Action Center... and may I just say, "Na, Na, Na, Naaaaa!" ; p ). I've had plenty of the form rejection letters, which I do appreciate because it lets me know that they received my application. However, I wished they would provide more information about why I wasn't chosen. I absolutely hated being ignored because I never knew for sure if the application had been received, but I didn't want to be a pest. It is a fine line.

And then I had the gem of a rejection letter for the St. Augustine Lighthouse Museum in Florida. (I'll scan and upload a copy of it later.) I even sent them a "Thank You" for their rejection letter. I kept the letter because I knew that one day I would have to write rejection letters and I wanted to be able to it justice. Was I right or what?! Now, I have a form rejection letter that I tweak to fit each individual, but the basic content stays the same. I try to provide encouragement while applicant are on their job search and inform them on areas of weakness that may need work.

For one candidate, I thought she had a great resume and I was able to talk to her on the phone. I passed the resume and cover letter on to the search committee. It came back rejected because of numerous misspellings. (One misspelling is okay, two is trivial, three is trying and four is finished - she had way more than four.) Because I thought she was a good candidate, I called her and explained why she did not make it to the interview round. She was embarrassed but very thankful I took to the time to explain our reasoning. She assured me she was going to correct it. This is the educator in me, people can't learn if they don't know what their mistakes are!

No matter the case, rejection is the hardest part for me as an interviewer. How do you deal with rejection?

- Jennifer Rogers
educator@texasmaritimemuseum.org

Part I - Job Interviewees and Interviewers...

2010-10-07T14:27:00.000-05:00

As I’m closing in on my second round of interviews for my position, I’m feeling the need to impart some advice to people who may be interviewing for an Education position.

ADVICE TO THE INTERVIEWEE:

Please, please, PLEASE… not only use spell check, but have at least 2 people edit your cover letter and resume! - Due knot relay two mush on spill chick!
When supplying reference letters, make sure they are dated within the past two years. If you need to get a more updated letter - go ahead and send in your cover letter and resume with a note, "Reference Letters Forthcoming" or "Reference Letters on Request."
Also, avoid reference letter duplicates. I know fellow employees and professors are often busy and will say, "Just type up what you want me to say and I'll put it on my letterhead." Don't do it! Or if you do, make sure each one you type up is different.
When questions come your way about levels of experience in which you may lack, don't say, "I really do not have experience in that area." More than likely, the question is very relevant to the interviewer. Rather, if you don't have sufficient experience, for instance, managing volunteers - relate your experiences as a volunteer and the management you appreciated. Tell the interviewer what you would duplicate or avoid if you were in that position.
If transitioning from one profession to another, such as a collections manager to educator or administrator to educator, make sure your questions are relevant to the position for which you are applying. Focus questions on the details of the job, such as programming, camps, public and home school relationships, community partnerships, and education events - limit questions on the job's peripheral aspects (such as fundraising, grants, exhibits, media interactions, collections storage...) even though you may have more experience with them.
Do not provide one sentence answers to questions from interviewers. Interviewers ask open-ended questions to learn more about you. Expand your answer but limit it to no more than 2 minutes. At 5 minutes, the answer is way too long and you've probably lost the interviewer's interest.
Show the interviewer that you are familiar with the institution to which you are applying. Ask for clarification of information. Don't ask questions that can be found through researching the institution's website, such as types of exhibits.
Allow your personality to shine through. Interviewers are not only considering your professional experience and qualities. They are also looking at replacing a 'team member' and how your personality will fit in the preexisting 'team.'

Do you agree or disagree with these points?
What other advice would you add?
Have you had a memorable interviewer/interviewee experience that we could all learn from? Tell us about it!

-Jennifer Rogers
educator@texasmaritimemuseum.org

Question of the Day…

2010-10-05T14:54:00.006-05:00

How is your museum accommodating larger school groups?

In the past few years student enrollment in Texas schools has increased.* I have personally noticed this as schools are bringing additional classes on the field trips to the museum. Let's get some discussion started about this topic!

*Source: http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/research/pdfs/enrollment_2008-09.pdf
Texas Education Agency. (2009). Enrollment in Texas public schools, 2008-09. (Document No. GE10 601 02). Austin TX: Author.

Save the Date: Annual Workshop

2010-10-01T11:27:00.002-05:00

The TAMEC workshop will be held on January 24, 2011. The topic is Survival Mode and Stress, more details will be announced soon! Sarah Hatcher and Sharron Wilkins Conrad are this year's coordinators for the workshop.

Museum Educator's Manual Reviewed

2010-09-30T08:49:00.001-05:00

As the others have, I will begin by introducing myself. My name is Sarah Hatcher and I am the curator at the North Texas History Center in McKinney, TX (32 miles north of Dallas) where I've been for just shy of five years. My former career was as a bookseller, so I'm thrilled to review museum-related books for you. Please email me and let me know if you have a recommendation for something you'd like reviewed.

The Museum Educator’s Manual: Educators Share Successful Techniques. Anna Johnson, Kimberly A. Huber, Nancy Cutler, Melissa Bingmann, Tim Grove. Lanham, MD: Alta Mira Press, 2009. 250 pp.

Some museum educators come to the field intentionally and with academic training in education or museum studies, others arrive in the landscape of our profession through “the back door” as contributor Nancy Cutler explains. No matter how you became a museum educator, The Museum Educator’s Manual is a terrific reference for those beginning to mid-career educators who are looking to reinforce what they know or explore a new area of interest or responsibility.

Good educators teach in engaging and meaningful ways. Authors Anna Johnson, Kimberly Huber, Nancy Cutler, Melissa Bingmann, and Tim Grove have done exactly that in this book.

While no one volume can hope to explore all the issues and challenges that museum educators face, The Museum Educator’s Manual does explore a wide variety of highly relevant topics from evaluation to outreach. Particularly useful chapters include an extremely detailed and thoughtfully written one on planning and managing museum programs and special events, and another on the role of educators on exhibition teams. The authors are forthcoming and ground their advice by providing examples of real programs and experiences they have been involved in.

If you are looking for theory this is not the right book for you. This text is designed to give practical leadership and offers checklists, worksheets, and sample forms. However, you can rest assured that the authors know their subjects, the bibliography offers references that include the tried and true, Learning from Museums, to the seldom cited master’s thesis of Melinda Adam’s, Optimizing Homeschoolers’ Experience in Museums.” Other reviewers have advised that this become a part of every educator’s professional bookshelf, and I will echo that with a caveat that seasoned professionals may keep it on their shelf to hand to the next intern or new staff member that walks in the door.

CONSTITUTION DAY: THEY WILL COME

2010-09-23T14:39:00.005-05:00

To introduce myself: I am Millie Vanover, Education Coordinator for Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. If you do not know where that is, it is way up in the Texas Panhandle in Canyon, Texas. Our museum serves about 80,000 public school students, and a good number of private schools and home schools. Region 16 is spread out over 26 counties, 63 school districts,and 223 campuses.

Today, I want to share with my fellow educators about a program we had on September 17, 2010, Constitution Day for 5th grade through High School. We had to cap the program at 400 students (we ended up with 475). We could have had 800-900 students easily which would be more than we could accommodate. It was a very popular program with teachers and principals. We had a giant Constitution that the students could sign and then receive a copy of a pocket constitution. We had activities such as calligraphy demonstrations where kids made a personal bookmark,printing/typesetting, diversity bracelets, genealogy quilt, citizenship quizzes and debates about "How shall slaves be counted?" and "Shall we ratify the Constitution?" along with other activities.

Mid-morning we had a big Constitution Birthday Party on the lawn. It was really cool to hear 530 students, teachers, parents, and others sing "Happy Birthday" to our Constitution.

I have to say that on September 1st I was a little worried. I had 39 students from one school signed up for the program. We thought we would be doing good to get 300 students since it is so early in the school year. And then it GREW! We plan to make this a yearly event. The teachers were thrilled with the program.

To make the day even better, we worked with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Dallas Field Office, and had a ceremony in our museum where 27 immigrants became citizens of the United States. WOW! That was really cool. I got to meet people from Cuba, India, Iran, Laos, Mexico, Russia, Somalia, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe.

It was really a good day. If you want to see photos from the day, you can go to our museum website at www.panhandleplains.org/edu

Millie Vanover
Education Coordinator
Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum

Humor...

2010-09-23T09:10:00.000-05:00

I laughed and snorted coffee up my nose when I saw this... and it HURT!
Hope you find it as funny as I did...
Warrior Worries from PBWindow's Blog
- Jennifer

History Matters!

2010-09-21T16:31:00.004-05:00

Hello everyone! I'm Sharron, the TAMEC History Museum rep.

For those of you who know me, you know that I have a long-standing interest in history museums. From the time I was in middle school I knew that I wanted a career dealing with some aspect of historical inquiry. My obsession back then was ancient Egyptian archaeology, but work in museums has brought me much closer to home: a Native American site, a Revolutionary War era historic house, 19^th century Philadelphia, and a turn of the 20^th century artist colony. History is absolutely fascinating, and working as an educator at a history museum is, too!

I am the curator of education at The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, one of the most important sites of the 20^th century -- the place where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated on November 22, 1963. I have lived in Texas for only three years, but I am always humbled by the thousands of people who come to Dealey Plaza each week. These visits are a necessary pilgrimage for visitors who come to see for themselves the location where events that took place in seconds had such an enduring impact.

As an educator I work closely with our interpretive team to develop exhibitions that help our guests make meaning of that tragic event. The loss of President Kennedy was so personal to so many, so our exhibitions tend to share the personal perspectives of people who remember that moment. The temporary exhibition currently on view at the museum is entitled A Photographer’s Story: Bob Jackson and the Kennedy Assassination. It tells the story of President Kennedy’s visit to Dallas through the eyes of Bob Jackson, a young photographer for the Dallas Times Herald who covered the story. Jackson was one of four people to see a rifle in the sixth floor window of the Texas School Book Depository building and took the iconic photograph of accused assassin Lee Harvey Oswald being shot by Jack Ruby at Dallas Police headquarters. He won the Pulitzer Prize for news photography in 1964 for capturing that extraordinary moment on film. The exhibit covers those two moments, but also provides a context for the time period, reviewing what Dallas was like in the early 1960s from Jackson’s first front page photograph—two boys riding their bikes—to the desegregation of Dallas’ public schools in 1961. Jackson covered Dallas stories for many years after the assassination: the Beatles visit in 1964, African American student protests at Bishop College in 1965 and the opening of Texas Stadium in 1971. Bob Jackson’s camera captured famous residents and visitors as well, including department store president Stanley Marcus and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach and Hollywood legends Bob Hope and Grace Kelley. Bob Jackson covered the story of Dallas.

Although he left the city for Colorado in 1980, his exhibit has brought him back to Texas many times. I encourage everyone to see his exhibit before it closes on October 17, 2010. Bob Jackson will be at the museum to tell his own story on Saturday, October 16 at 2 pm. For more information about the exhibit and the upcoming program, visit www.jfk.org.

History museum educators: do you have a great exhibit that everyone should know about? Tell me about the exciting, meaningful and interesting history exhibits happening around Texas so that I can cover them in this blog. I look forward to hearing from you and talking about why history matters!

Sharron Wilkins Conrad, Curator of Education

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

sharronc@jfk.org

Anachronisms: What Would -- or Do -- You Do?

2010-09-16T09:14:00.008-05:00

Some like it hot...or so the summer proved to be. After pulling our last withered bell pepper plant from the hot and tired garden in the 100 degree summertime humid and hot weather, the soil has received a new birth of life in the form of mushroom dirt mixed with composed dirt. We let the new soil cook down for about two weeks, then tilled it up and made it into rows for our fall garden. The garden is a great teaching tool when describing life for Texas pioneers in the 1800's. One of our programs involves getting kids to do chores in the garden, just as youngsters would have helped out their families back then. We've run into a snag that has caused us to think more deeply about being historically accurate, versus the need to conduct everyday business.

Here's the scene: I purchased about 100 starter veggie plant from the feed store in preparation for our first fall tour in one month. After putting them into the ground at the end of last week, they have all been chewed to the nub by a flock of flock of geese and a few rabbits that frequent our 15 acre park. I'm upset. I want rabbit and goose stew. Sam Houston would already have had rabbit and goose stew. But I can't go to that extreme, so we take this as a mild setback, buy new plants, put them into the ground, and move on. I've fought from putting up modern fencing, as Sam Houston wouldn't have used chicken wire in 1850, but this is the compromise I can only turn to.

With this as an example, it is common for historic house sites, living history sites, etc. to take shortcuts -- anachronisms -- in everything from dress code to building materials, in order to operate smoothly for the public. I'm putting our issues out there for yall to follow up on with your own stories. (I'm looking at you, living history sites!) Tell the TAMEC Blog world what your site does in order to run smoothly, even though it may be out of character. As for me, my afternoon will be spent putting up T-posts and chicken wire around our garden. I'd rather the kids next month have some veggies to tend to next to a chicken wire gate, than for the kids to have to "imagine" what Sam's garden looked like.

Michael C. "Mikey" Sproat
Sam Houston Memorial Museum, Huntsville, TX

Educator workshops... how late is too late for grown-ups?

2010-09-15T14:49:00.012-05:00

Well, summer camp is over, we've shuffled around all of our classroom materials and even some classroom walls and even thought it is still 98 degrees outside here in Houston - the fall programming has begun! Our first Overnight of the season was on Saturday night with a group of very enthusiastic 3rd graders, our weekday labs are in full swing for groups visiting during the week, field trip kiddos are filling the hallways and our teacher workshops began last night with a dazzling science magic training!

Soon we will host our first Educator Late Night - Day of the Dead II - an intensive workshop for Educators where they arrive at HMNS on a Friday night at 6pm and stay all the way until 12:30am when they go home with a bag full of awesome activities and a load of CPE credits! We have hosted Educator Overnights in the past but while some adults really don't mind sleeping on the floor some of them REALLY do mind... so we're trying out the LateNight option this school year.

As an educator, how would you feel about sleeping in a sleeping bag among the exhibits at a Museum? How late could you stay up for a super cool late night experience before losing your edge? Would you be excited to roam around on your own exploring after hours or would you want to participate in hands-on classroom work the whole time? Everyone is different but as with anything we are always testing the waters with different programs to determine what will work best for most!

Allison Kellogg

Houston Museum of Natural Science

Delphi Method for Research...

2010-09-09T14:48:00.001-05:00

Some of you graduate students and former students probably remember something called the Delphi Method. For those of you who don't - the Delphi Method is a research tool in which the "judgement" of experts is used to provide feedback on data and analysis. This research method allows for flexibility, especially with topics that contain some ambiguity. It also works well to assist people with an understanding of problems, opportunities, solutions and/or forecasting.

For my graduate research project, an assessment of TAMEC, I am using this method for several reasons:
1) I require the expertise and feedback of experts - a focus group of people who have knowledge and experiences participating in an association and an affinity group and are willing to participate. (Please participate!)
2) The mode of interactions is through emails, the blog and/or online surveys. (Whadaya know... the TAMEC blog fits this!)

For the next 10 weeks I will be dispersing information and would greatly appreciate any and all feedback you are willing to provide. Suitable bribes forthcomming too ; ) Will you participate?

Question of the Day...

2010-09-07T11:04:00.008-05:00

Does your museum use social media?

If so, what types of social media are you using ? Do you have any advice for others? What has worked well and did not work well?

Remember the Toilet Museum...

2010-09-03T09:07:00.000-05:00

A while ago, I posted the above comic (when talking about people wanting to use the restroom without paying admission even though there's a public restroom 50 ft from the door). Come to find out, there is a Toilet Seat Museum ... and... it's in San Antonio.

If you don't believe me, check this out: Barney Smith's Toilet Seat Museum.

Employment Announcement...

2010-09-02T13:19:00.002-05:00

"Howdy –
Attached is the link to the Human Resources website at Sam Houston State University. Our Historical Interpreter position, both part time and full time, is posted under the “Staff” tab and available for applications now through September 8th. It is important to share this information with as many any folks, list serves, partnerships, or forums that may be interested, considering our current fiscal climate and the possibility that the university might pull the position if it cannot be filled in a timely manner. My goal in informing everyone is to fill this position in a reasonable amount of time with someone who is well qualified and eager to join our team i.e. recent graduates, retirees, or museum education folks. Huntsville is a wonderful city, just north of and close enough to the big city of Houston, yet far enough away to relax in the East Texas Piney Woods. Thank you so much for the help. – Mike."

https://shsu.peopleadmin.com/postings/1452
https://shsu.peopleadmin.com/postings/1453

Michael Sproat
Curator of Education
Sam Houston Memorial Museum
Box 2057 SHSU
Huntsville, Texas 77341-2057
936-294-4895
sproat@shsu.edu
Sam Houston Museum on Facebook
Sam Houston Museum on Twitter

News from TAMEC...

2010-09-02T09:23:00.000-05:00

To encourage regular postings (so there's not a 3 month sabbatical when a poster is otherwise occupied with multitudes of projects... Sorry about that!) we discussed out our meeting in August, dividing the month up in order for each committee member to post once a month. Since there are 8 committee members, that comes to an average of 2 post a week (Look... I can do math!) Below is the basic schedule we will be following and I will continue to post as information comes in:

1st Tuesday – Katie

1st Thursday – Jennifer
2nd Tuesday – Allison
2nd Thursday – Mike
3rd Tuesday – Sharron (proposed a series on spotlighting history exhibits & programs)
3rd Thursday – Millie
4th Tuesday – Kathryn
4th Thursday – Sarah (proposed doing a series on book reviews)

For the month of September, these are the posting dates and who's responsible:
September 2 – Jennifer
September 7 – Katie
September 9 – Jennifer
September 14 – Allison
September 16 – Mike
September 21 – Sharron
September 23 – Millie
September 28 – Kathryn
September 30 – Sarah

News from McFaddin-Ward House...

2010-09-02T09:08:00.000-05:00

"TAMEC folks might also be interested in the upcoming McFaddin-Ward House Conference, Teaching the Past to Ensure a Future, Nov. 2010 in Beaumont, Texas. Great line-up of museum education folks! For more info see http://mcfaddinwardhouseconference.blogspot.com/ "

Thanks Ms. Castle of Museum Education Monitor

News from TAM...

2010-08-31T20:00:00.001-05:00

Texas Historical Commission and TAM Presents Professional Development Focus on Museum Education

Museum Education: One Size Does Not Fit All
9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
One-Day Workshop $25

The next topic in the popular workshop series presented by Texas Historical Commission in partnership with TAM will address museum education. Beginning with the basics of museum education, such as identifying different types of museum visitors and how they learn, the workshop will include strategies for teaching a broad range of visitors as well as program assessment and evaluation techniques. Ideal for docents, museum educators, and anyone who works directly with the public, this workshop format blends small group interaction, hands-on activities, and large group discussion. Workshop presenter Claudia Ocello, President and CEO of Museum Partners Consulting, brings two decades of experience to her instruction.

September Workshop Schedule
Tuesday September 14 - Chappell Hill Museum, 9220 Poplar St, Chappell Hill
Wednesday, September 15 - Mayborn Museum Complex, 1300 S. University Parks Dr, Waco
Thursday, September 16 - W.K. Gordon Center, 65258 IH 20, Mingus

Registration Deadline: September 8, 2010. Register today at https://www.io.com/tam/thcworkshop.html

October Workshop Schedule
Tuesday, October 19 - El Paso Holocaust Museum and Study Center, 715 N. Oregon, El Paso
Thursday, October 21 - American Windpower Center and Museum, 1701 Canyon Lake Dr, Lubbock
Friday, October 22 - The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St, Abilene

Registration Deadline: October 13, 2010. Register today at https://www.io.com/tam/thcworkshop.html

The number of workshop participants is limited to ensure the quality of the group learning experience. Limit two registrations per organization; $25 fee covers supplies and lunch.

Sandy Sage, Program Associate
Texas Association of Museums

Office of Programs and Communications
P.O. Box 204116
Austin, TX 78720
Tel: 512-650-7817
Email: sandy@texasmuseums.org
Website: www.texasmuseums.org

SAVE THE DATE
2011 TAM Annual Meeting
August 4-6, 2011
Irving, Texas

Soul Survivors...

2010-08-31T09:38:00.000-05:00

Wow! What a wonderful, innovative and inspirational program at the Houston Holocaust Museum. For more information view the article "Forensic Artist Draws from Memories of Holocaust Survivors."

Media Monday...

2010-08-30T09:58:00.000-05:00

This is great heartwarming story to open up my sabbatical from TAMEC this summer!

4 kittens stowed away on ship to be museum - Navy News News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

There's lots to update everyone on and we'll be posting frequently starting now.
- Jennifer Rogers

Education Director Position Annoucement...

2010-08-18T09:43:00.000-05:00

Title of the Position: Education Director
Organization: Texas Maritime Museum
Location: 1202 Navigation Circle, Rockport, TX 78382

Position Classification: Full-Time
Department: Education Department
Reports to: Kathy Roberts-Douglass, CEO
Supervises: Part-time Frontline Staff; Seasonal Staff (Youth Camp Counselors); Volunteers (Adults & Adolescents)
Consults with: Phil Barnes, Curator; Elaine Faulkner-Overturf, Executive Assistant; Education Committee (3 Members)

Overall Responsibility: Creating and implementing educational programs relevant to the mission of the museum; ensuring community cooperation and relationships through volunteers and partnerships; providing direct communication to board of trustees.

Key Areas of Responsibility:
• Maintain and develop innovative curriculum for established programs.
• Scheduling and providing tours.
• Scheduling and providing outreach programs.
• Developing curriculum for temporary exhibits.
• Developing community partnerships with organizations and schools.
• Recruiting, training and maintaining volunteers.
• Directing all Youth Camp activities.
• Grant research and writing.
• Implementing and assisting fundraising activities for the organization and the department.
• Formulating and maintaining department’s budget.
• Flexible schedule to accommodate evening and weekend events, exhibits and program activities.

Qualifications:
• Strong sense of customer service.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Good time management skills.
• Supervisory experience with adults and adolescents.
• Proficient with Outlook, Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Familiar with social media and the internet.
• Able to communicate to a variety of audiences regardless of age, gender, race, education and disabilities.
• Fulfills monthly reports and schedules as well as other administrative duties as necessary.
• Familiar with formal/informal education principles.

Salary & Benefits: $25,000 annually with medical benefits; 2 weeks of vacation after 12 months of employment; retirement package after 18 months.

Educational Requirements: Requires graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree in Museum Studies, History, Education or similar, plus at least 2 years of directly related experience. Master’s Degree preferred or advance degree may be substituted for work experience. Additionally, professional experience may be substituted for formal education requirement on a year-for-year basis.

Tentative Start Date: December 15, 2010

Application Deadline: November 1, 2010

To Apply: Send cover letter; Experienced Based Resume; 3 Professional and/or Academic References to –

Texas Maritime Museum Search Committee
Attn: Kathy Roberts-Douglass, CEO
1202 Navigation Circle
Rockport, TX 78382

Heads Up...

2010-08-12T09:06:00.000-05:00

TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION AND TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF MUSEUMS PRESENT

Professional Development Focus on Basics of Museum Education
Museum Education: One Size Does Not Fit All

The next topic in the popular workshop series presented by Texas Historical Commission in partnership with TAM will address museum education. Beginning with the basics of museum education, such as identifying different types of museum visitors and how they learn, the workshop will include strategies for teaching a broad range of visitors as well as program assessment and evaluation techniques. Ideal for docents, museum educators, and anyone who works directly with the public, this workshop format blends small group interaction, hands-on activities, and large group discussion. Workshop presenter Claudia Ocello, President and CEO of Museum Partners Consulting, brings two decades of experience to her instruction.

Limited Space - Register NOW!
Registration is now open for workshops in September and October!
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. One-Day Workshop $25
• September 14, Chappell Hill
• September 15, Waco
• September 16, Mingus
• October 19, El Paso
• October 21, Lubbock
• October 22, Abilene

*Advance registration is required; online registration only.

This workshop is part four of the Training for Texas Museums initiative, sponsored by the Texas Historical Commission in partnership with the Texas Association of Museums. This project was supported in part by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this workshop do not necessarily represent those of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. http://www.imls.gov

Contact Us
email: sandy@texasmuseums.org
phone: 512-650-7817
web: http://www.texasmuseums.org/

Teachers Teaching Teachers...

2010-08-03T13:06:00.000-05:00

Lupita Barrera is still looking for people to help with the proposal "Teachers Teaching Teachers" based on the list of topics generated at the January 2010 workshop. The proposal I submitted said:

"I mostly hear of teacher workshops being conductd at art museums! Are there other types of museums doing teacher workshops? * How are they put together? * Advertising? * Recruiting? * How do you get teacher commitment? * Who is the contact person at the school(s)? * When should teacher workshops be scheduled? * How do you find out the best time to schedule? * what is the purpose of teacher workshops?"

If you can answer these questions, Lupita needs your help!
W. (210) 458-2361
E. lupita.barrera@utsa.edu

Note from IEDC...

2010-07-21T08:12:00.000-05:00

If you haven't heard of the IEDC, don't worry - I hadn't either.

Informal Educators of Dallas County (IEDC)

Dallas County has a new network of informal educators who teach outside of the traditional classroom! The goal of the IEDC is to serve as a resource to one another and to provide a place for sharing success stories and problem solving strategies. This group is modeled on the Informal Educators of Fort Worth (IEFW), which is made up of educators from the Amon Carter Museum, Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, Fort Worth Zoo, Sid Richardson Museum, National Archives and Records Administration, UT Arlington Library and Cowgirl Hall of Fame, among other wonderful organizations.) The group will meet six times per year at museums, libraries, theaters and other cultural organizations throughout Dallas County. Will you join us?

2010-2011 Meeting Schedule
3:00 pm Tour of meeting location (optional)
4:00 pm Meeting—with pre-determined discussion topics
5:00 pm Happy Hour (optional)

Tuesday, August 24 – The Museum of Nature & Science
Tuesday, October 19 – Dallas Theater Center
Tuesday, December 7 – The Dallas Holocaust Museum/Center for Education and Tolerance
Tuesday, February 8 – The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
Tuesday, April 5 – Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park
Tuesday, June 7 – The Dallas Zoo

To be added to this list or to RSVP for an upcoming meeting email Sharron Conrad at sharronc@jfk.org or Melissa Prycer at mprycer@dallasheritagevillage.org.

Note from TAM Proposal Committee...

2010-07-20T11:56:00.000-05:00

I got this in my email inbox. It's a response to one of the submissions for TAM Conference next year and based on the topics list generated by our January workshop. If you have an interest or information about this, please contact Lupita Berrara at the Institute of Texan Cultures, 210-458-2361 or Lupita.Barrera@utsa.edu

Dear Jennifer:

I am a member of the TAM Planning Committee. We met to review the proposals submitted for consideration for the 2011 TAM Annual Meeting. Your proposal Teachers Teaching Teachers sounds quite engaging. I would like to speak with you more about it. Specifically, I would like to talk with you regarding any speakers you may have in mind. Final decisions for the accepted proposals will not be made until October. However, I would like to gather as much information as possible. My contact information is below. Can you please contact me at your earliest convenience.
Best regards.

Note from Rosie...

2010-07-20T06:42:00.000-05:00

M.E.L.T. Mixture

2010-07-17T09:22:00.000-05:00

TAM's new affinity group, MELT (Museum Emerging Leaders of Texas), is launching a statewide series of informal gatherings to encourage networking and identify issues for emerging leaders. Following on the heels of their successful first mixer in Austin, MELT has chosen Fort Worth for the location of their second get together.

Date: Thursday, August 5, 2010
Time: 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Location: The Ginger Man, http://ftworth.gingermanpub.com/
Street: 3716 Camp Bowie Blvd.

Come and network with fellow North Texas museum emerging leaders at The Ginger Man, a casual hotspot located one block west of the museum district and a favorite of the local museum crowd. Membership in MELT or TAM is not required and there is no charge for this event. (Refreshments available "dutch treat" by individual choice.) Please RVSP on MELT's Facebook page.

Hope to see you there!
Joy Summar-Smith
Associate Director
Dr Pepper Museum
300 S. 5th St
Waco TX 76701
254.757.1025 Ext. 130
Website - Dr Pepper Museum
Twitter - Dr Pepper Museum
Facebook - Dr Pepper Museum and Free Enterprise Institute

Job Posting...

2010-07-17T09:14:00.000-05:00

Educational Program Coordinator

The Williamson Museum, Georgetown, TX

Summary of Responsibilities:
Under the supervision of the Executive Director, the Coordinator will develop and implement strategies for marketing and the administration of all educational programs and special events on and offsite to children of all ages, adult groups, and the general public.

Primary duties and responsibilities:
• Manage the operational details from start to finish of museum group visits and on and offsite programming.

• Develop and implement school tour materials and traveling trunks and administer programs using the current trunks.

• Recruit, train, schedule, and manage volunteers for WM educational operations including courthouse tours.

• Schedule and manage the use of courthouse for county officials and as a rental facility.

• Maintain the educational collection and assist the Museum Curator with the development of the educational components of exhibits.

• Other duties include but are not limited to hosting teacher workshops, developing educational marketing materials and curriculum (print, web, other), preparing and implementing a budget, and writing and submitting grants for educational programming.

Required Qualifications:
B.A. in Museum Studies, Education or History or related field and 3-5 years experience in an education setting. M.A. in Museum Studies or teaching certificate preferred but not required. Candidates must have proven experience in event coordination, educational programming, scheduling, have outstanding organizational and communication skills, and a positive, enthusiastic and professional demeanor. A commitment to teamwork and the ability to approach a broad range of tasks necessary. Must be creative and have the ability to design innovative educational programs for a variety of audiences. Experience working with electronic media, writing curriculum, and developing educational materials required. Must work a Tuesday-Saturday schedule as well as occasional evenings for special events. Williamson County residence preferred. Must have a valid driver’s license, good driving record, and reliable transportation because job requires extensive in-county travel.

Compensation: $35,000, full-time salaried position with mileage reimbursement and benefits package.

Closing Date: Open Until Filled, Resume Reviews begin July 23, 2010

How to apply: Please send resume with cover letter and three professional references to mross@williamsonmusuem.org. Resume may also be faxed to 512-943-1672 or mailed to The Williamson Museum, Attn: Mickie Ross, 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown, TX 78626. No phone calls, please.

Job Posting...

2010-07-12T15:05:00.000-05:00

News from Baylor -

"Museum Education Coordinator

Full-time professional position in award-winning county historical museum. Responsibilities include planning and producing all aspects of the museum’s educational components, including traveling trunks, docent guides, tours, and outreach programs. Works under the supervision of the Museum Director. Master’s degree in education, museum science and/or related discipline, and two years experience as a museum educator, are preferred. County government benefit package. Position open until filled. Send resume and references to: Educator Selection Committee, P.O. Box 1381, Belton, TX 76513."

Seriously...Note from Rosie

2010-07-10T08:00:00.001-05:00

Wacky Wednesday... Note from Rosie

2010-07-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

Media Monday... Note from Rosie

2010-07-05T08:00:00.005-05:00

Seriously...Burnout

2010-07-03T08:00:00.002-05:00

Burnout... need I say more. Unfortunately, we are not the Energizer Bunny - we do not keep going, and going, and going, and going...

Did you know some of the most common suggests for dealing with burnout is to "take a break and visit a museum or art gallery"? So what do you do if you work in one?

I discovered that there are many sources of information about this topic which I will list at the end of the post. However, the most beneficial source came from another blog post - Avoiding Burnout as a Young Professional.

You might want to also check out:

Preventing Employee Burnout by Susan E. Jackson and Randall S. Schuler
Retention and Burnout by Kathleen Greer
Teaching to Prevent Burnout in Helping Professionals by Debra Damn Zellmer

Are you experiencing burnout? How are you handling it? If you need some ideas, here are 75 Ways to Preventing Burnout.

Note from Ruth Ann...

2010-07-01T10:45:00.000-05:00

"Hello to the TAM Affinity Group leaders. Hope everyone is enjoying summer and looking forward to getting together in August. The third Council meeting of 2010 is scheduled for Friday, August 6, 2:00-5:00 p.m. I hope you will make an effort to attend or assign an Affinity Group representative to attend. As you know, we are planning some changes to the way TAM relates to its Affinity Groups. Sure would like to have your perspective in that discussion!
Soon Sandy will send out her "official" notice of the August 6th Council meeting and will ask for RSVP. But before that, I want to give you a heads up on all the activities for that weekend.

Thursday, August 5
5:30 p.m. is the MELT Mixer at The Ginger Man, 3716 Camp Bowie Blvd. This casual hotspot is located one block west of the museum district and is a favorite of the local museum crowd. If you make it to town early, plan to join us for the party Thursday night. (Even if you're not an emerging leader -- the rest of us will be there, too!)

Friday, August 6
Noon Prior to the meeting, Council and Program Committee members (also meeting that day) will have lunch in the "Blue Sky Room" at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. Lunch is generously provided by our hosts. We will receive greetings from the President, Van Romans, and have a brief opportunity to look around. All participants will receive wristbands that allow access to the museum.

2:00-5:00 p.m. Council Meeting, again in the "Blue Sky Room"

5:00 p.m. Private reception hosted by Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. Following refreshments, we will have an opportunity to tour through the museum (after public hours)

6:30 p.m. Dinner at The Original (not fully confirmed but well in the works), favorite local restaurant about five minutes west of the museum district at 4713 Camp Bowie Blvd. It's very informal, close, high capacity, inexpensive TexMex menu, and killer margaritas (or so I hear). Plan to stay for dinner.

If you are able to come and stay over, Sandy has pulled together info on nearby hotels. TAM is not selecting a room block -- you are on your own!

Please let me know if you have questions. Looking forward to seeing you all!

THANKS

RAR

Ruth Ann Rugg
Executive Director
Texas Association of Museums
101 Summit Avenue, Suite 802
Fort Worth, TX 76102
817-372-0054 cell
817-332-1177 office
ruthann@texasmuseums.org
http://www.texasmuseums.org/"

Wacky Wednesday...

2010-06-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

I'm in the middle of grant research and writing... just thought this was appropriate!

Museum Media... Music

2010-06-28T08:00:00.002-05:00

When Sarah sent me the link to the Edison Museum song, I'll be honest... I hadn't thought of museum media including music. But she was right and it got me to wondering if there were other songs out there. Sure enough, a quick searched turned up this.

Museums by Wall of Voodoo (lyrics available at MetroLyrics)

I'm sure there's more out there. Does anyone have some suggestions?

Seriously...Internships

2010-06-26T08:00:00.003-05:00

What is an internship?...Why are they important?... How do you create one?... What do you do with one once you've got them?... If you have any of these questions and more, thank Diana Bolander, Maria Finison, Sarah Hatcher, Sabrina Hershey, Allison Kramer, WooHee Kwak, Noemí R. Peña, & Lisa Schaup for providing us with answers.

They compiled Creating an Internship that Works - for you and the intern and gave us permission to make it available on our blog.

Recently U.S. News & World Report published a May 2010 article discussing the importance of internships from the students' perspective - When a Degree Isn't Enough

Both are worth checking out and a big "THANK YOU" to Sara Hatcher for sharing this with us. Remember, if you have information to share with fellow Educators - please email me educator@texasmaritimemuseum.org

Wacky Wednesday...

2010-06-23T08:00:00.003-05:00

Working in the museum field, I'm sure many of us find ourselves doing other jobs, such as helping out with exhibit preparations. And, for whatever reason, we find ourselves working on the exhibit until the zero hour.

I am guilty of this myself. Help... how can we break this cycle?

Media Monday... The Edison Museum

2010-06-21T08:18:00.004-05:00

I'm not sure what to make of this. What do you think?

YouTube - The Edison Museum by They Might be Giants

link courtesy of Sarah Hatcher, vice-chair

Seriously... Volunteer Appreciation

2010-06-19T08:00:00.001-05:00

Like many museums, we try to have a special demonstration of appreciation for our volunteers. I've come to figure out that they do not really want trophies or certificates. They want somethings special... something that we the staff took time and energy to put together and create. Not something we ordered for Oriental Trading, the Trophy Shop or Baudville.

In 2008, I had an idea and the volunteers loved it! ... and I've yet to come up with something similar. I got the idea from Gospel Light's "Big Book: Volunteer Appreciation Ideas." There was a whole section on candy and sayings that go with them.

For example, we have a volunteer who has a beautiful smile and is really happy. We chose the Almond Joy candy bar for her and the tag line from the books said, "Your willingness to serve and be a role model for our kids brings Joy to our hearts." That tagline doesn't fit what we wanted to say, so we changed it to - "With your bright smile, you bring joy to the Texas Maritime Museum."

For her reward we gave her an Almond Joy candybar and a certificate with this picture on it:

This picture was also projected on the screen for others to see. People tried to guess who it was before we announced the person. There was lots of laughter and fun, which is what I enjoy most about the event. The event didn't cost us much money, mostly in time and creativity with the photoshop. And it is to date, our most successful Volunteer Appreciation.

As museum educators, I'm sure you're familiar with C.A.S.E. Syndrome (Copy and Steal Everything). Which is my polite way of asking, "What great volunteer appreciation ideas have you used that I can copy and steal?"

- Jennifer Rogers

*Below is a slide show of some other examples.

Wacky Wednesday...

2010-06-16T08:00:00.001-05:00

Since I'm deaf, this would have completely slipped by me... but, it's still funny!
-Jennifer Rogers

Excel for Auction Post

2010-06-14T09:34:00.003-05:00

Just realized that the screen shots were not working on the pdf tutorial. It is now fixed, but you have to download the powerpoint.
New Link: Excel for Auction Tutorial
- Jennifer

Museum Media... Museums as Temples to the Gods

2010-06-14T08:00:00.005-05:00

I've been reading alot of YA (Young Adult fiction) lately. My friend who works at the Library started recommending them. My most recent encounter has been with Rick Riordan's "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" series which I found entertaining and recommend for quick reads. If you don't have any idea what I'm talking about... well, I couldn't be concise, cause it would take way more than one post to explain the complexities of the storyline. So, I cheated and copied from the website: "The gods of Olympus are alive and well in the 21st Century! They still fall in love with mortals and have children who are half-gods, half-human, like the heroes of the old Greek myths." That doesn't tell you much, but without going into intense detail, it'll have to do!

Percy Jackson is a demigod, a son of Posieden, and the series cronicles his adventures. Anyway, for my 30th B-day I got the "Demigod Files" which has a collection of short stories. In one, "Percy Jackson and the Stolen Chariot," a museum is featured. The story begins with Percy's frienemy, Clarisse, discovering her father's chariot is stolen. (Her father is Ares, by the way.) He offers to help her return it to Ares' temple... guess where... The Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum! When I read that, I bust out laughing - thinking, "How appropriate!" Right behind that thought was, "What a creative use for a museum, I wonder if he'll do more."

Last week, I picked up Riordan's newest book "The Red Pyramid." There are quite a few museums and famous artifacts used in the book with the same idea of them being temples for gods and goddess (except, they're Egyptian gods in this book). I'm enjoying the creative usage and you might too!

What do you think about this? Would you like your museum featured in a fiction book? How would you like it to be used?

- Jennifer Rogers

Seriously... Auctions

2010-06-12T08:00:00.003-05:00

I know we do a lot of tasks outside of our realm of typical responsibilities. Every year here at the TMM, I help with the auction committee - mostly with checking out. And every year, I get a migraine headache from it.

Last year, I learned a trick from a friend of mine who was on the committee. She used Excel! Now I use excell too, but I had never thought about using it the way she did. For the past two major events we have used this template and it has made our lives soooooooooooo much smoother. Now, don't get me wrong - it's not perfect and the headache is not gone completely. But it's ton better than before.

Since then, I've told several people about what we do and they've tried it and like it too! Who knows, it might help you... If you want to give it a shot, you can download the tutorial and the template.

- Jennifer Rogers

Wacky Wednesday...

2010-06-09T08:00:00.006-05:00

You know I'm always on the lookout for funny museum comics and humor. A friend tuned me into Nina Simon's blog (author of the Participatory Museum) Museum 2.0

She did a post back in the summer of '07 called "What's so Funny?" which I highly recommend! Read it, then think about the comic below...

- Jennifer Rogers

Topic Proposals...

2010-06-09T07:31:00.004-05:00

I submitted our topic proposals to the TAM Program Committee several weeks ago and got this response back:

"I received the email listing TAMEC’s ideas. I can’t include them as proposals in our program spreadsheet without more “fleshed out” work. If there are any you want to pursue, please give us more to work with and we will be glad to include them as proposals. We meet next week, so we are on a short deadline!"

Here's the original list I turned in from our TAMEC Workshop:

Using Excel
Budgeting
Unconventional Programs
At-Risk Audience
Special Needs Audience: Autism, Hearing & Vision Impaired
Goal Setting
Family Learning in Exhibit Spaces
Basic Design for Publications
Fundraising
New Media Technology
Back to the Basics
Teacher Workshops
Challenges during Recession
Outreach Programs
Prioritizing
The State of Museums: How have museums changed? Where are we today? What is the future?
Assessment/Evaluations
Living History
Stress in Survival Mode

#5 we are focusing on for our online workshop and #16 we addressed quite a bit at the last TAM Conference, so... I wouldn't worry about those.

Unfortunately, I don't have time to 'flesh out' 17 proposals. I will put together a proposal for: #1 Using Excel; #6 Goal Setting; #12 Teacher Workshops; #14 Outreach Programs; #17 Assessment/Evaluations. If you have ideas about any of the following listed, contact me via email educator@texasmaritimemuseum.org and we'll combine information together.

For the others - If you have something to contribute, experience or know someone with experience, in one of the following topics put together a quick proposal. The proposal committee is working really hard to provide relevant topics to its fellow professionals.

-Jennifer Rogers

Museum MEDIA Mondays...

2010-06-07T20:00:00.000-05:00

Mondays are no longer "Museum Movie Reviews," rather they are "Museum MEDIA Reviews." Media is defined as *all the means of communication. This includes movies, newsprints, blogs, websites, books, etc... I changed this because of timing issues. Quite frankly, I don't have time to rent and watch movies every weekend right now with Summer camp starting ~ but I will post something media related on Mondays.

- Jennifer Rogers

*Webster's New World Dictionary

Seriously... School Tours

2010-06-05T08:00:00.001-05:00

Back in 2008, I did a presentation on "Making Museums Relevant to Schools" and there is some interesting data along with it. For a closer look, click the links below.

Presentation: "It's No Picnic..."
Script: Handout
Research: At Risk & Instructional

If you have powerpoints, handouts, etc... from workshops or presentations you've done, please share them with your fellow Museum Educators. Send them to me educator@texasmaritimemuseum.org as PDFs so that I can post them.

- Jennifer Rogers

Request from Colleague...

2010-06-03T08:58:00.001-05:00

Hi, TAMEC members!
During the TAM Annual Conference in March, our TAMEC affinity group met. Among other things, the subject of visitor surveys came up. This summer at the Dr Pepper Museum in Waco we are developing visitor surveys for our tours and programs. It would be helpful (& greatly appreciated) if you can share some points of interest, experiences, or information with me. For example,
- Any helpful websites
- Paper vs Internet surveys
- Copies of survey forms as examples
- Success / failure scenarios
- Specific Objectives for surveys
- Other
My summer assistant, Lauren Tapley, is heading this endeavour. She may be contacting you as well. We are all busy this time of year with summer programs and such. I thank you in advance for your time and info.

Be A Pepper!

Diane Bernhardt
Programs Manager

Dr Pepper Museum
300 So. 5th Street
Waco, TX 76701
(254) 757-1025 x129
www.drpeppermuseum.com diane@drpeppermuseum.com

Wacky Wednesday...

2010-06-02T08:00:00.001-05:00

I saw this comic and thought, "How appropriate!" So much of what we do is about creating meaning, developing an association, having an impact, ... truly affecting people with our programs and our exhibits. If you're this successful - Keep up the good work!

- Jennifer Rogers

Nina Simon's Blog...

2010-06-01T13:58:00.005-05:00

Every Tuesday, Nina Simon (author of the Participatory Museum) writes an excellent post on her blog Museum 2.0 - check it out! This month, she's discussing the book "The Great Good Place" and today is part 1.

I've done a little rearranging on the side bar of the blog. I cleared out the dead links and I'll be adding some other relevant blogs and websites as I encounter them under "Links of Interest." Additionally, more "Educational Resource" links will be added in the future.

- Jennifer Rogers

Happy Memorial Day!

2010-05-31T08:00:00.004-05:00

Seriously... Outreach Programs

2010-05-29T08:00:00.002-05:00

The following is an attachment of a TAMEC workshop presented by myself in 2008. I believe the information is still relevant. This presentation consists of a powerpoint, the script and two worksheets that will assists you.

Presentation: "Who, What, How... Different Outreach Programs for Different Audiences"
Script: "Who, What, How..."
Worksheet 1: Which Outreach Method is Right for You?
Worksheet 2: Developing Your Program
Research: Data

I hope this helps someone.

And the Winner Is...

2010-05-28T15:43:00.005-05:00

Congratulations, Lilliodillo! You are a genius... as all museum educators are.

For your prize you get a pc game called "Escape from the Museum." Just send me your address and I'll mail it to you.

The answer for the anagram "A true code mums us." (which is a saying for "Riddles stump me") is ...Museum Educators (Duh!)

*Yesterday began the 4 day fundraising marathon event, known as the Rockport Festival of Wine and Food. Depending on my mental, physical, & emotional stability - I may not be present on Saturday or Monday. In which case, Rosie will take over for me.

Rosie is the Jetsons' house-hold robot who handles my business during extremely busy and stressful times or mandatory vacations. She does all the household chores and sometimes parents me by dispensing advice. She is also a strong disciplinarian... thus I may be hogtied to the bed or locked in the bedroom until my sanity returns.

Wacky Wednesday...

2010-05-26T08:00:00.003-05:00

Lately, we've had a lot of visitors coming into the museum asking to use the restroom. The interesting thing is that there's a public restroom about 50 feet to the left and right of the museum entrance. So, if they are not paying admission - we direct them to the public restroom.

Sometimes we get the nastiest looks. Here's my thinking. The price of admission helps us cover the cost of overhead on the building which includes paying for the water that is used to flush the toilet, and the electricity to light the bathroom. If they're not willing to pay admission then they need to use the public restroom - that's what it's there for. The museum is not a public restroom.

Am I alone in this thought process? - Jennifer Rogers

Museum Movie: Da Vinci Code

2010-05-24T08:00:00.001-05:00

When I tell people about the movie review and ask for suggestions for movies - the most common answer is Da Vinci Code. This is usually followed by the comment that it has a ton of museums in it. In actuallity, the movie features only one museum ~ the Louvre. Although, it does have some wonderful shots. My favorite is at the end, but since that would ruin the story for those of you who have not seen it, I didn't put it up. Below is my second favorite sceen. The synopsis of the story is this: "Professor Robert Langdon is in Paris on business when he's summoned to The Louvre. A dead body has been found, setting Langdon off on an adventure as he attempts to unravel an ancient code and uncover the greatest mystery of all time."

I love the quiet, spookiness of the museum atmosphere (without creating a haunted feel). It has just the right amount of lighting and quality for a treasure hunt. I'm tempted to recreate it for a evening or overnight program out our museum.

Anyway, for the fun part. Below is an anagram. In the comments post, write your answer to be put in the magic hat. The winner will be drawn Wednesday, May 26, 2009, at 12:00 pm and the answer posted along with the winner!

"A true code mums us."

- Jennifer Rogers

Seriously... Programs for "Mature Minds"

2010-05-22T08:00:00.003-05:00

While organizing my computer files, I was going through alot of powerpoints that I've collected from TAM and other workshops over the past 10 years. Here's one that was done by Suzanne Moore, then a graduate student, when she presented at TAM in 2007.

Click here for the PDF presentation of "Mature Minds" by Suzanne Moore.

Question...

2010-05-19T12:49:00.002-05:00

Has anyone had experience with Oovoo video chat which can be embedded directly into the blog? I looked at Skype as well, but you have to sign up and it only works for two participants.
- Jennifer Rogers

Wacky Wednesday...

2010-05-19T08:00:00.002-05:00

As the tempature starts to climb, museums become a cool destination during the summer. Does your museum use the museum's indoor tempature as a marketing tool? The Texas Maritime Museum does!

Museum Movie: Batman

2010-05-17T09:26:00.002-05:00

Here's the story behind this one. I was talking to my dad a several weeks ago about the movie review series I'm doing for the blog since I get my movie buffness (that's not a word, but it should be) from him. I was explaining how the movies have to have a connection with museums and he immediately mentions Batman. I was like, "What?" thinking he didn't have a clue what I was talking about. He got all excited and said, "Yeah, yeah... you know, when the Joker spray paints all that art at that museum, ... you know, the one in New York." I immediately drew a blank but decided to humor him and rented it anyway. Turns out, he was right (he doesn't get to hear that very often) and it's exactly how he described it. The Joker and his minions take over what I assume is the New York Museum of Modern Art and garishly spray paint various paintings and sculptures. It's so cheesy that it's horrifically funny.

Now, I know that as museum professionals we would never tamper with an artifact or artwork. But just for kicks and imagination, have you ever been tempted to? If so, tell me what it is (artifact or art) and what you would do to it and why.... better yet, get creative with photoshop and send it to me educator@texasmaritimemuseum.org and I'll post them. You have until May 21, 2010 at midnight.

- Jennifer Rogers, Education Director, Texas Maritime Museum

Seriously... Strategic Planning

2010-05-15T08:00:00.001-05:00

Every time I hear about strategic planning, I think of staff retreats, mediators, collective meetings… and I snort. No, seriously I do because often I feel like a one man or woman show. I mean, when do we have time to actually sit down discuss, let alone plan a strategic planning meeting. It's ironic.

Let’s face it, strategic planning does require leadership and it is not the education director’s job to institute a strategic plan for the organization. However, I've discovered you can develop and lead one for your department. Even if your department consists of one person, like me. Last September, I decided my department needed a strategic plan because during good times and bad, a strategic plan serves as an essential management tool – whether you have one for your institution or just your department.

One of the aspects of strategic planning that I’ve always struggled with was the ambiguity. The process and organization of strategic planning always seemed elusive to me. A listing of “do this, do that, etc…” but without any how-to formula. Last year I was introduced to the book “Strategic Planning for Nonprofit Organizations: A Practical Guide and Workbook” which I found VERY instructional. The book comes with a CD that's full of worksheets to help guide through the process. To give you an idea, here are some of the aspects I learned that were helpful to me.

Most of us have some sort of vague idea about strategic planning, but what can we really do? The book identifies 7 Phases of strategic planning.

Getting Prepared
Articulating the Mission, Vision & Values
Assessment
Prioritization
Writing the Plan
Implementation
Evaluation

PHASE 2: MISSION, VISION & VALUES
Formula for writing a mission statement – A mission is a purpose sentence which consists of two elements (p 92).

“An infinitive verb that indicates a change in status (such as to increase, to decrease, to eliminate, to prevent, etc.)”
“An identification of the problem to be addressed or condition to be changed (such as access to health care, public policy on the environment, cultural assets in the community).”

Example: The museum education department is part of the museum, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, that is dedicated to encouraging and supporting (infinitive) educational opportunities for audiences of all ages, ethnicity, gender, and disabilities (condition).

PHASE 3: ASSESSMENT
Formula for assessment – SWOT Analysis (p 136).
SWOT is an acronym for: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. You need to ask these basic questions and, again, honesty is important. The first two questions are an internal assessment and the last two are an external assessment.

Strengths – “What do we do well?”
Weaknesses – “Where can we improve?”
Opportunities – “What changes are taking place in our environment that might allow us to better achieve our mission?”
Threats – “What changes in our environment do we need to guard against or prepare for?”

Another assessment tool is the “Compass point’s Dual-Bottom Line Matrix,” which is a financial assessment. Also look into the “Competitive Strategy Matrix” (p 188-220).

PHASE 4: WRITING
The Objective – “must identify the measurable numbers that will support the fulfillment of the goal and/or strategy and support he achievement of the organization’s purpose” (p 237).

Formula: (verb noting direction of change) + (area of change) + (target population) + (degree of change) + (time frame) = Objective

Example 1:
Direction of Change to increase
Area of Change School tours
Target Population Austin, Nueces County, 60 miles around the museum (you get the idea)
Degree of Change to 10% of student population, 100% of 5th graders
Time Frame by 2012.

Example 2:
Title – Traveling Exhibit Program
Goal – “To increase the public’s awareness of neon art.”
Process Objective – “To sponsor one showing per quarter in 2004”
Outcome Objective – “Using attendance as a measure of cultural awareness, double the number of people attending the exhibit in 2004 compared to previous year.”

This is such a tiny, litte bit of what's in the book. If you're starting to think about are in the middle of strategic planning, I recommend getting this book. Ultimately, a wholes series of workshops could be taught using this book.

Has anyone else used this before? What did you think?

- Jennifer Rogers, Education Director, Texas Maritime Museum

Another Note from Ruth Ann...

2010-05-14T14:29:00.002-05:00

Can anybody tell I'm cleaning out my emails ; ) ~ Jennifer Rogers

"Hello, TAMEC pals. This is an e-mail from a colleague in New York state trying to do some research on art-based literacy programs. TAM ran a survey for her earlier this year but it received little response (2). Could be because no one in Texas is doing this kind of program, or most museums are history not art, or maybe they didn't read that far, or maybe they didn't have time for the survey -- any number of things. I offered a couple of suggestions to Rebecca about larger art museums to contact directly. Although TAM has nothing invested in this, it seems a polite professional courtesy to try again. Perhaps you can toss it out on the TAMEC blog and see if you get any nibbles?
THANKS
RAR"

Contact Rebecca Hirschwerk with Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn Harbor, NY.

Note from Ruth Ann...

2010-05-14T14:10:00.002-05:00

"Hello to my museum education colleagues. As you know, TAM is in a productive partnership with THC to stage museum training workshops in rural and under-served areas of the state. The current topic is strategic thinking and planning. The next topic is educational programming in museums. While I know several BRILLIANT museum educators, they are all working for museums. Do you know any independent consultant-types who might be (1) good as a workshop instructor and (2) available to work in Texas? If you do, please let me know. Pay is pretty good and here's the basics:

The Texas Historical Commission (THC) is seeking expressions of interest and statement of qualifications from qualified individuals or firms to develop content and lead twelve (12) workshops and two(2) webcasts in the Training for Texas Museums workshops series. The selected contractor is responsible for developing workshop content and leading twelve (12) day-long training workshops on educational programming in museums. The selected contractor will provide all necessary services and materials in developing and leading all twelve (12) workshops and two (2) webcasts. Travel to and attendance at the twelve workshop locations is required, as well as a half day at the THC offices in Austin for taping of two webcasts that are between 8 – 10 minutes in duration. THC reserve the right in it sole judgment and discretion, to award the contract to the most qualified contractor as a result of this RFQ.

For the full package, go to this website and search for The Texas Historical Commission section.

Thanks!
RAR"

TAM Conference Session Proposals...

2010-05-14T14:02:00.003-05:00

The TAM Program Committee is looking for ideas concerning session topics, keynote speakers, and workshops. Please, help them meet your needs by filling out a Proposal Form.

The committee is meeting next month to review the proposals ~ PLEASE, turn them in soon.

- Jennifer Rogers

*Remember, you cannot complain next year about a topic not being presented if you don't take the time to make the proposal!

How to Clean a Dinosaur...

2010-05-13T08:53:00.003-05:00

The Chicago Field Museum is cleanning their dinosaur "Sue" for the exhibit's 10th Anniversary.

See here for more on the story: ABC News

Wacky Wednesday

2010-05-12T15:48:00.002-05:00

How are things shaking up for you, today?

Museum Movie Articles

2010-05-10T08:00:00.002-05:00

Apparently, people have caught on that I like movies. I wonder where they got that idea? A slew of articles have been forwarded to me and I thought I'd share these two with you:

FIVE FILMS THAT MEMORABLY FEATURE MUSEUMS (Smithsonian, 5/4/2009)
"From art heist to fright flicks, here are five of our favorite movies that memorably feature museums..."

FILM AT THE MUSEUM (Boston Globe, 5/17/2009)
"Long before Ben Stiller, people onscreen were running afoul of collections and curators..."

What are some movies you recommend for review?