Orientations and the like
June 24th, 2006 by Hagar ShirmanI started the official portion of the conference with two orientations. The first, an intro to New Orleans, its artists, its troubles and its beauties; the second an introduction to ALA conference life in general for us newbies.
Many Voices, One Nation was an amazing kaleidoscope of readings, poems, dance, music. The Guardians of the Flame Mardi Gras Indians opened the evening in full regalia with their feathered and beaded costumes. They were followed by a slew of storytellers, poets, writers, some native to New Orleans, others who have lived here long enough to call themselves New Orleanians, and yet others from elsewhere. The list included: Martin Pousson, Kimberly Willis Holt, Lisa Sandell, Kalamu Ya Salaam, Jose Torres Tama, Ashley Nelson and Abram Shalom Himelstein of the New Orleans Neighborhood Stories Project, Greg Herren, Lee Maitzen Grue, Ron Gauthiers and Toni Simmons. They were coordinated by the energetic, exuberant Master of Ceremonies Jose Aponte. These many voices spoke of their personal experiences, their view of the Katrina tragedy and aftermath, politics, loves (of land and people), community, and life. It was a beautiful program that brought together many images of New Orleans to create a portrait of its people, its diversity and history, as well as its present state and what the future may hold. This wonderful evening was capped off with hot beignets and coffee. Could I ask for anything more?
The NMRT Conference Orientation provided a more practical guide to the conference experience. I had heard much of this before, but repetition is often the trick for learning. Among the bits of wisdom:
- Don’t be a TOAD (Tags On All Day)- take off tags as soon as you leave the convention buildings, both for personal safety and to avoid the “nerdy librarian” stereotype
- Talk to people- we can all spot the librarians on the plane, so why not meet some new friends?
- Say “yes”- if you are invited, go!
- Take the free stuff, but only if you really want it. Remember, you’ll have to carry it around the rest of the day.
I am excitedly looking forward to more great presentations.
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