Talking Back
[Jerry Huntsinger’s] article is the second I’ve read. … I want to commend you on your frankness. I mean, really, who wants to read something that sounds stuffy, boring and wholly un-fun? Thanks again for flying the “dumb it down” flag.— Miranda Nerland, staff writer/Web content manager, Florida College,Temple Terrace, Fla.
To the Editor:
Just a few thoughts on your recent Editor’s Note (“Whattaya Know?” May 2005). Just because the session was not attended well doesn’t mean the majority of us at the conference are ignorant. I would assume that since the new legislation was a hot topic before, during and after the conference, the majority of us were well informed as to what was in the works and had been working to let our senators and representatives know just how we felt. I am certainly glad that I did not attend the session only to be called ignorant by you at a later date. The old stand-by of no question is a stupid question should be considered. --Sharon Will, CFRE, development director, South Wind Hospice, Pratt, Kansas
[Editor’s Reply: My apologies if anything I wrote in my Editor’s Note seemed disrespectful. I used the word “ignorant” to mean “lacking knowledge” on a particular subject — not “stupid,” which is how that word is sometimes construed. Judging by the session I attended (and other discussions), there does seem to be a great deal of ignorance within the industry when it comes to impending changes that could affect nonprofit fundraising. I include myself in that description, since I (like many people) am not fully educated on all of the implications. I have a great deal of respect and admiration for those whose life’s work it is to raise money for worthy causes. I certainly don’t consider our readers (or their questions) stupid. Quite the contrary — they are a constant source of education for me. The intention of my column was to remind all of our readers of the importance of staying abreast of the latest developments that affect their jobs. — MB]
