X-Message-Number: 18232 Date: Wed, 26 Dec 2001 14:12:44 -0700 From: Jessica Lemler <> Subject: This Week at Alcor The following can also be viewed on our website at <http://www.alcor.org/>http://www.alcor.org Week of December 24 through 31, 2001 Mathew Sullivan, Facility Operations Manager Facility Operations: I've had some problems on Joe's computer with the installation of SystemWorks 2002. I used Norton's and Windows to remove the old virus program, but the installation found some ghosts in the system and would not properly install. I was able to download a program from Symantec to clean out the old stuff, but I'm currently having issues with registration due to script errors. Spent some time programming my cell phone. I wanted to make sure everything was in order prior to our trip to Laughlin for the wedding. I'm having some problems with Alcor phone system and I'm no longer able to record calls. I've been in contact with Inter-Tel, but they were unable to resolve the issue remotely and will send a technician to Alcor on Wednesday. I made and distributed a new phone list for each phone after Jessica picked up her cell phone. Mike Perry, PhD., Patient Care Assistant Ironically, the week started for me with an email message I sent to the Alcor board, staff, and advisors suggesting that "This Week at Alcor" be linked not posted in its entirety on CryoNet (following a suggestion of Rick Potvin, with whom I agree on this issue). Some of us here are in favor of linking, not posting, others just want to post the whole report. Either way the public has access--so what do readers think? Beyond this, I worked on a review for Gerald Gruman's book-length essay with a long title, "A History of Ideas about the Prolongation of Life: The Evolution of Prolongevity Hypotheses to 1800." Except for minor editing touches and references, it's now finished, and should appear in the magazine at some point. I also researched copying services for some home movies and the like of a patient whose relatives want copies. My learning experience with FrontPage and web work continues, as I now see that apparently there is a time lag between making a change and having it actually put into effect. I guess that is a function of your service provider. This week is shortened because of the holidays, but for many of us here it will also be shortened because of a wedding to take place on Friday the 28th in Laughlin, NV. James Sikes and Jessica Lemler are tying the knot and they wanted *me* to officiate. For those of you who do not know it, I have that authority from the Society for Venturism, which is recognized by the IRS as scientific, religious, and educational organization. (If you're wondering about the religious aspect, you can check the Venturist website http://www.venturist.org and click on "about us." This, by the way, is a way of legitimizing a "religious objection toautopsy" to gain protection from the dissecting table after you deanimate.) Jessica Lemler, Administrative Associate/Webmaster On Saturday, James and I were here at Alcor so everyone could go to the Pizer's. We were sorry to have missed the festivities, but glad to do our part watching Alcor Central so the rest of the staff could go out for the evening. Monday was a relatively slow day, and Tuesday we had a wonderful meal and great company for Christmas, not to mention having the day off work. In addition to a staff meeting this morning, I am working on this posting and various other tasks in preparation for being out of the office for the next few days. This week is a short week because we will be going to Laughlin for my wedding to James. Several people have asked me if I am nervous. I am anxious and excited more than anything, and I honestly believe I was more nervous in anticipation of my first suspension. Happy New Year to you all, and the next time I post, I will be Mrs. Jessica Sikes. Hugh Hixon, Facilities Engineer Friday, partial day off. Assist with LN2 delivery. Saturday, Christmas party at Dave and Trudy Pizer's. Monday, administrative stuff. Partially compose a message on some technical problems. Tuesday, Christmas at the Lemler's. Jennifer Chapman, Membership Administrator During a recent meeting to discuss Alcor s revised information package, it was suggested that Alcor make all of our publications comparable to one another by using the same color schemes and fonts, etc. On Friday of last week, I considered various projects that will assist with this endeavor. I also updated Alcor s list of insurance agents on the website and processed insurance bills. In addition to performing my typical customer service responsibilities, I processed one membership finalization, one membership reinstatement, and one membership cancellation. Joe Hovey, Accounting Manager A very short week. I moved into my house this week. I now actually have to commute to work for the first time in 13 years! Two Alcor members will remain on site 24 hours a day, to be relieved on occasion by myself and other staff members and volunteers. I managed to get some work done on the November financial statements but they will not be completed until after I return from the Lemler wedding this weekend in Laughlin, Nevada. Meetings with attorneys and accountants concerning year end and other issues. Dr. Jerry Lemler, President, CEO We had a most engaging time at Trudy and Dave Pizer's home last Saturday evening. I spent most of the evening outside in the spacious back yard gathered with my bride and fellow cryonicists 'round the campfire. No guitars. No Kum B'ayah. Just plenty of good food, good eats, and interesting conversation! As you may already realize, this is an abbreviated week for Alcor staffers. We celebrated Christmas at our home on Tuesday. Virtually the entire crew was in attendance. It was much like conducting an informal staff meeting. I've found it virtually impossible when we all get together to not "talk shop"-- so we do, and without apology. We're off to Laughlin, Nevada, on Thursday, where Jessica and James will be wed at Alcor member and benefactor Don Laughlin's Riverside Resort. Mike Perry, ordained Venturist official, will perform the ceremony. I've been reduced in this whole matter to a clearly defined "father of the bride" role. My instructions are to smile and be ready to write the check-- period! I hope everyone has a healthy and prosperous New Year! Rate This Message: http://www.cryonet.org/cgi-bin/rate.cgi?msg=18232