One of the things that keeps the optimism level up is staying in touch with people around the country with respect to their research. For example, I was talking to Les Groom the other day about some of his current research. Man, talk about contagious enthusiasm. I wish I could bottle that kind of excitement. He simply likes what he is doing and loves to talk about it. Another example comes from the electronic communication realm. Those of you out there on the "wood-science" discussion list no doubt saw my posting regarding a question about polyethylene glycol. Not only did I get answers from all over, there were a number of people who responded with a "hi, how ya doin'" which was at least as gratifying as getting answers to my question. That's one of the things I like most about this profession: plenty of friendly, helpful people. And, compared to a lot of other areas of work, the groups (e.g., SWST, FPS, IUFRO Working Groups, etc.) are generally small enough that if you want to get involved, you as an individual really can make a difference! Consider how you will contribute in the year ahead, and then follow through (I'm talking to myself, too).
As I wrap up two years now as your Newsletter Editor (time surely does fly when you're having fun), I want to thank all of you who have sent and keep sending in news. A special thank you to those who contribute short articles (e.g., Connections, Correspondent's Corner). Don't be shy - I'm always looking for good wood science stuff! - D.D.S.
It seems as though you can't look anywhere these days without seeing something about the world
wide web (www). Have you noticed, for instance, all those tv ads that feature a www address at
the end? Madison Avenue leaves no stone unturned when it comes to marketing. So what does
that tell us in wood science? It means we need to get with the program, as opportunity no
doubt awaits out there in cyberspace! And with that opportunity also comes the necessity of
keeping up with the technology. Herewith, a "tip" for those of you who have the wherewithal
to really net-surf in style: You can get yourself some free motion-video software at
http://www.vdolive.com
The software is VdoLiveTM The Player (ver 0.1B38), which "makes online motion video possible." To use it, you need graphical web browser software, such as Mosaic or Netscape, and the following system requirements:
PC, 486 DX 33 or faster, with Windows 3.x, Windows 95, or Windows NT (other systems expected soon), 14.4 kbps or greater modem or LAN to the Internet, 8 MB ram, and a sound card. Now, for some of you, that is a breeze, but I'm afraid that my Uncle Sam is not so nimble when it comes to keeping up with technology (I hope he won't hit me for saying that), so I can't use the thing. But, one of my more fortunate University colleagues (rollin' in dough and high tech gadgets) has tried it out and his highly technical review boils down to "neat." So give it a try, and drop me a note to let me know how much fun you're having while I plod along. - D.D.S.
The Correspondent's mailbag contains a potpourri for this issue. First off, you
may be interested to know that Daryle Layton has recently moved to Boise, Idaho, to
assume a new position as Manager of R&D for the Timber and Wood Products Division
of Boise Cascade. Congratulations, Daryle, and best wishes for success in your
new position.
Here's another item I've been meaning to pass along: Dr. Otto Suchsland retired from Michigan State University on July 1, 1995 after 38 years on the faculty. The last time I saw Professor Emeritus Suchsland, he was hiking on the summit of Rock Mountain in Cashiers, North Carolina. I think he will enjoy his retirement!
Remember Bill Oviatt and his mouse-catching Teeter-PongTM (see Sept/Oct 1995 Newsletter)? His creation was recently named the "Best Independent Invention" at the Creativity in America 95 Show in Los Angeles. In addition, the Smithsonian Institution has expressed interest in the original prototype and drawings for its permanent collection. Congratulations, Bill.
Newsletter Assistant Melissa Brookens was recently honored with a SWST Certificate of Appreciation. The Certificate, signed by President Geza Ifju, was for "Dedicated Service as Newsletter Assistant." Melissa has been a great help, particularly on the May/June 1995 issue, which she put together almost single-handedly with only some back-and-forth e-mail input from your editor. Thanks a bunch, Melissa!
Finally, we are saddened to note the passing of Dr. Charles P. Berolzheimer of Stockton, California, August 30, 1995. Dr. Berolzheimer was the owner and Vice President of Manufacturing and Research of the California Cedar Products Company and founder of Duraflame, Inc. He was a recipient of the SWST Distinguished Service Award, along with many other honors. Ryszard Szymani published a fitting Memoriam to Dr. Berolzheimer as a supplement to the Sept/Oct 1995 Issue of the Wood Machining News. - D.D.S.
WOOD INDUSTRY TECHNICAL ADVISORSThese positions will be located at Quicksand, KY and are supported by the University of Kentucky Wood Utilization Center, which contains a 12,000 bd ft dry kiln and a 14,000 square foot teaching laboratory containing industrial wood working equipment suitable for training programs and applied research. They will be expected to contribute in a team effort to address all aspects of primary and secondary hardwood utilization, manufacturing and management.
The successful candidates will have a bachelor's degree in an area suitable for the required programs and/or three years' experience in the primary or secondary hardwood industries. Entrepreneurial experience, as well as additional education, will be strongly favored. To apply, send letter of application, resume and three letters of reference by January 31, 1996 to: Mr. Douglas J. McLaren; Department of Forestry; University of Kentucky; Lexington, KY 40546-0073. Phone: (606) 257-2703.
The University of Kentucky is an AA/EEO employer and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty, staff, and student body. Individuals from under-represented groups are encouraged to apply.
Director, Texas Forest Service
College Station, Texas
HISTORY: Established in 1915, the Texas Forest Service was charged with development and protection of the
forests in Texas. The Texas Forest Service serves all of the State of Texas with primary program focus in the 52
forested counties of East Texas in various fields, including rural fire protection and training, urban
forestry, tree improvement, professional forest management, assistance to landowners, wood use technology,
reforestation and forest insect and disease control.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Provide leadership for all programs of the Texas Forest Service. Cooperate and
interact with other state agencies, USDA Forest Service, forest and related industries, citizens and
associations in the planning, development, and conduct of cooperative programs relating to responsibilities
and authority of the Texas Forest Service. Work with the governor's office, state legislature, congressional
representatives, and individuals and associations in the forestry and related industries in the identification
and procurement of budgetary support for local, state and national forestry programs. The Director operates
under guidelines prescribed by the Texas Legislature and policies of the Texas A&M University System, and
reports to the Vice Chancellor of Agriculture and Life Sciences of the Texas A&M University System. He also
participates as a member of the Agriculture Program Executive Committee.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelors degree (Masters preferred) in forestry. Minimum of ten years experience in
forestry administration. Demonstrated administrative/management skills (including ability to plan, organize,
budget and communicate effectively). Demonstrated understanding of the complex organizational and management
functions of a state forestry organization. Commitment to the principles of diversity and affirmative action.
SALARY AND BENEFITS: Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with an attractive
benefits package.
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: Applications will be accepted until February 1, 1996, or until a suitable
candidate is located.
TO APPLY: Submit resume, three letters of reference and other supporting documents to: Texas Forest Service
Search Committee; Texas Agricultural Experiment Station; Human Resources Office; College Station, Texas
77843-2162. Contact Dr. Robert Merrifield at (409)845-8486 for additional information.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER
DEAN OF FORESTRY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
UNIVERSITY OF NEW BRUNSWICK
The University of New Brunswick is seeking applications and nominations for the position of Dean of the Faculty
of Forestry and Environmental Management to succeed the incumbent effective July 1, 1996. The Faculty of
Forestry and Environmental Management provides the only English language professional education in Forestry at
the university level in Atlantic Canada. It has a long and distinguished history in education, research and
service, and is a leader in innovation.
The Faculty operates Bachelor's degree programs in Forest Ecosystem Management and Forest Engineering, with minors in Computer Applications, Wildlife, Parks and Wilderness, Environmental Studies, Forest Science and Wood Products. The Forest Engineering program is the only one in Canada. Course-based, and research-based Master's degrees, and Ph.D. degrees are offered in most areas of forestry and forest engineering. There are 29 Faculty members, 500 undergraduate and 70 graduate students. Students are drawn from all across Canada and from many other countries. The Faculty is a key component in the Centres of Wildlife, Wood Science and Technology, and Sustainable Development. It has research facilities on campus and in the nearby Hugh John Flemming Forestry Complex, and maintains strong ties with research and development in forest-related government agencies and industry.
The Dean should have outstanding academic, research and administrative qualifications and be capable of providing strong leadership in forestry education and research within a dynamic local and national forestry environment. Reporting to the Vice-President (Academic), the Dean is responsible for the supervision and administration of academic programs, the Faculty budget, and relations with alumnae and the profession.
The Faculty of Forestry and Environmental Management is located in historic Fredericton, which is the capital city of New Brunswick, situated on the beautiful St. John River.
Enquiries, nominations and applications should be addressed to:
Dr. Louis P. Visentin; Vice-President (Academic); University of New Brunswick; P. O. Box 4400; Fredericton, N.
B.; E3B 5A3
E-mail Visentin@UNB.CA
by March 1, 1996. Applications should include a curriculum vitae and the names of three referees.
In accordance with Canadian Immigration requirements, this advertisement is directed to Canadian citizens and
permanent residents. The University of New Brunswick is committed to the principle of employment equity.