Wednesday, October 26, 2005

“Live from the field in the aftermath of today’s event, let’s go to Dirk Dirkelsfeld, Dirk?”

“I can hear you Allen. Yes, today’s International Credit Union Day went very well, from all indications. Despite some issues throughout the spectacle with timing and the agenda, I have to say the day was a success. The audience was awed by traditional dances, a lively debate entitled, “Keep your money under the mattress, or in the credit union?”, and a quiz show that involved local school children. The highlight, according to PCV, Eric Jones, was the fact that Kumba’s own, OceanCity Radio, carried the event live. Let’s go to an excerpt of the OceanCity interview with that same PCV…”

<“How do you see the day?”

“It’s great to see the incredible turnout. Many people have come out on this rainy day to support the Credit Union Movement. Hopefully, this event will be a catalyst that provides for increased momentum.”>

“Kinda brings tears to your eyes, eh Allen? Back to you in the studio…”

“Thanks again, Dirk. To echo the hope held by Mr. Jones, the Movement must use this event as a springboard. The following weeks and months will tell of the true success of this event. And, such a treat, we have PCV, Eric Jones, in the studio with us today. Eric, what have you been up to?”

“First, Allen, I want to thank you and the studio for having me, and thanks to that report from Dirk. What a reporter, eh? In the past week, or so, I’ve been continuing my observations, meeting with small business owners in the market, on an informal basis, and plotting my next moves.”

“Which will include?”

“Ah, thanks for that rather leading question. I have a few things in the works. First, within the bank, I’d like to begin an archival system for our headquarters that I’d then like to expand to the branches. You know, Allen, I worked for a couple of libraries in their archival departments during college. Peace goes out to Frank and the Auraria Library and Nancy at Southwestern University Library. Love you guys!”

“Um, yes, thanks for that, er, shout out. What else?”

“Well, continue to attend board meetings, loan recovery meetings, give input, and organize training where I see the need. Also, I’ve been giving some preliminary thought to Secondary Projects. Our CamCCUL Chapter President, Collins, is working with a community group to begin a local library. Once again, I think my past experience will aid in that.”

“Funny how that works.”

“Ha. We won’t get into that here. Look for my new blog “Me in Philosophy” coming soon. In addition, one of my friends has a wife who works to educate the local populous about HIV/AIDS and the necessity of malaria bed nets. So, I may be able to lend some support to her effort. Peace Corps encourages us to get involved in something AIDS related. I’ve also thought some about giving business classes to groups of entrepreneurs, as the last volunteer did, but I may hold that until Year 2.”

“Overall, how do you feel it’s going?”

“Slow. Patience is definitely a virtue that I am constantly cultivating here. But I am learning so much about the various dynamics, not only in my town, but also in African development in general. My Dad just sent me a book entitled “Africa Unchained: The Blueprint for Africa’s Future” by George Ayittey. I am thoroughly enthralled by this publication. Being in the thick of this very topic I am learning a great deal from it. The hope is that I’ll gradually be able to transfer this learning to create positive results with the aid of locals. The danger, though, is rushing into development and utilizing American solutions to African problems. That’s what the latest generation of African leaders has done here, and it isn’t working. There’s much to be done, but it is in absolutely no way a lost cause. The potential is great on the African continent, and in Cameroon, specifically. I’m optimistic.”

“I’m sure you’ll have much to say on that topic as the weeks continue. In closing anyone you want to, er, give a shout out to?”

“Yeah, to my little bro, Chris, for kicking the S#%t out of the LSAT! Way to go.”

“I’m sure the LSAT had it coming.”

“Undoubtedly.”

2 Comments:

Blogger Erin said...

What, do you think you are funny or something?? I have noticed since your departure that you have attempted to portray some sort of sarcasm mixed with humor (becuase you and I both know that sarcasm is not naturally humorous...in fact sarcasm is rarely humorous) however your attempts are failing miserably! Just thought you'd like to know!! Miss you tons!

11:46 PM  
Blogger Unknown said...

That offends me. I'm calling your bank manager and telling Him/Her you offended a FirstBank elite. Ha!
Eric it brightens my day to see you have posted again. Keep up the good work bro. Mad props to Chris and his l33t sk1llz as well!

4:02 PM  

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