Dear PBS member; I am writing to volunteer to be the next BX Director. As I am a relatively new member and unknown to most of you, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself and explain why I wish to be considered for the position. First of all, let me state that I am fully aware of the importance of the BX to the PBS. I feel I am a good fit for the “job” and the “job” would be a good fit for me. Let me explain… I am a veterinary pathologist who specializes in diseases of birds, primarily poultry. I am married (we just celebrated our 57th anniversary), have two daughters, and two grandchildren. I recently retired after nearly 50 years in academia (36 years at NC State) as a teacher, scientist, and clinician. Currently, I am a Professor Emeritus. I have served in several capacities in my professional organization, including as president. I have authored numerous scientific papers, participated in writing of books, and given a myriad of scientific presentations. My life has been one of service to students, colleagues, clients, and my profession. I view the BX Director as a continuation of service that I could provide. Bulbs are the most recent iteration of a life-long interest in plants. My previous interest was in alpine orchids of botanical interest in the pleurothallid family. This was challenging in our North Carolina climate…can you imagine a greenhouse with two air conditioners? This aspect of my hobby ended after the greenhouse was destroyed twice by hurricanes and when full attention had to be given to understanding the cause and how to control a devastating disease of commercial turkey flocks. I served in several capacities in the Triangle Orchid Society including Show Chairman and President. I possess no depth of knowledge concerning bulbs, but am rapidly learning. I have an insatiable curiosity about anything and everything. As I explain to people, “It is a good thing I am not a cat as I would have been gone a long time ago.” Following retirement, I have been seeking a volunteer position that would be both challenging and rewarding. Until this opportunity arose, nothing had come along. I have no other responsibilities besides those of the family. Funny, the grandson does not like homework??? I have no business interests. With my experience in gathering and organizing data and qualities of accountability, honesty, and integrity, I believe I can do the job you expect as BX Director. Serving in this capacity would fulfill a need I have to do something meaningful to serve others. My health is good and I can commit to at least 5 years in the position barring any unforeseen problems. I have ideas about operating the BX but want to start with the way it is presently done. A saying in these parts that I cherish is, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. Albert has become a good friend as we live close to each other. I am sure he would be willing to help me learn the ropes during the transition. That’s about it. I would appreciate your support. If you have any questions, please drop me an email (jnvkbarnes@nc.rr.com [1]). You are welcome to call [919.851.5230], but if you do not leave a message, the call will likely be blocked…I hate these pesky “Robo” calls. H. John Barnes Links: ------ [1] mailto:jnvkbarnes@nc.rr.com _______________________________________________ pbs mailing list pbs@lists.pacificbulbsociety.net http://lists.pacificbulbsociety.net/cgi-bin/…