2 WE ARE EXPERIENCING trying times with conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, inflation eating away at our fixed incomes, and the plethora of fake news being bought by the under-educated. However, as RAPSters we have the opportunity to experience enlightening programs where we can learn new things, socialize with our colleagues, meet new ones, and have a bright spot in your day. The recent program on the economics of our nation and the prospect of a recession is a good example. Our colleague, Tom Potiowsky, gave a fantastic presentation on the economy at the October program. Although some statistics supported the notion that a recession is here and others did not, Tom thinks the Fed will not raise interest rates in the near term and that the prospect of recession is up in RAPS SHEET n NOVEMBER 2023 CO-PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE In trying times, RAPS offers a bright spot in your day the air—or to quote the eminent sage Yogi Berra, “The future ain’t what it used to be.” Our next program will be a good one that you won’t want to miss. Ann Cudd, PSU’s new president, will address us in an in-person program on Thursday, November 30, at 11 a.m. Dr. Cudd’s educational background is primarily in philosophy with some emphasis also in economics and mathematics. A light lunch will follow her presentation. RAPS is looking for members to step up and volunteer in the membership and awards committees. Volunteering is most rewarding. To quote DeAnn Hollis’ recent thoughts: “The heart of a volunteer is never measured by size, but by the depth of commitment to make a difference in the lives of others.” So, let’s hear from you. RAPS’ future depends on you. —Bruce Stern It’s a reach! Is that fear and trepidation we see from the RAPS Scholarship Committee chair as she stretches toward the basket? If so, it’s certainly understandable! It might be that she’s reaching in to see whether there are donation checks for the scholarship in the basket. Behind her expression are hope and determination: she very much hopes there will be generous, solid support when the request to contribute to the Robert Vogelsang RAPS Scholarship comes to RAPS members very soon. The Scholarship itself is terrific—a $9,000 boost for a graduate or undergraduate. While we welcome contributions at any time, the real fundraising push intensifies in the fall. But see the smiling faces surrounding her? They are obviously confident that support will come from RAPS members to maintain and build the endowment made possible by an anonymous and very generous donor. We hope that in January, when we have a picture of our fundraising outcome, you’ll see beaming RAPS Scholarship Committee members, awash in student scholarship support from you. Meanwhile, watch for the appeal in the next RAPS Sheet! —Sherwin Davidson, Chair, Scholarship Committee
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