The Dimbulbs of Edison

January Brunch

2012-01-10T09:58:00.003-05:00

Wednesday, January 11, 10 a.m. - Noon

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T10:20:00.000-05:00

To all Dimbulbs, wheresoever dispersed.

Christmas Greetings From The Schergers

2011-12-18T12:22:00.002-05:00

December Happenings

2011-12-12T11:56:00.001-05:00

A big week for Dimbulbs as we meet for Brunch at Tim Hortons on Wednesday, December 14 as a warmup for the Edison Holiday Luncheon on the 16th.

Wednesday - 10 a.m.

Friday - 11:30 a.m.

November Brunch

2011-11-07T20:18:00.000-05:00

Wednesday, November 9, 10 a.m.

Roger Williams 1924-2011

2011-10-13T10:51:00.000-04:00

October Brunch

2011-10-05T08:19:00.001-04:00

The October Brunch is Wednesday, the 12th of October.

Dimbulbs Fifth Anniversary Portrait

2011-09-30T18:34:00.002-04:00

Edison Community College Courtyard

September 14, 2011

Edison Community College Annual Scholarship Recognition Dinner

2011-09-20T17:07:00.000-04:00

Date & Time	Thursday, October 20 · 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Location	Edison Community College, Robinson Theater 1973 Edison Drive Piqua, Ohio

For information contact -

Julie Slattery, telephone: 778-7805, e-mail: jslattery@edisonohio.edu

Terri Jacomet, telephone: 778-7806, e-mail: tjacomet@edisonohio.edu

The Things We Did Last Summer

2011-09-16T07:44:00.000-04:00

Dimbulbs Fifth Anniversary

2011-09-14T13:28:00.001-04:00

The Days Grow Short...

2011-09-05T06:43:00.001-04:00

Fifth Anniversary Gathering - At Main Campus

2011-09-01T15:42:00.000-04:00

It was just about this day of the year in 2006 when a half-dozen Edison retirees met to explore the idea from Cathryn Essinger, thence passed along to Sharon Robinson, to form a group for Edison retirees. The group that met decided to try a date in late September 2006 at a central location that might appeal to as many retirees as possible. A quip at the time suggested we might name the group The Dimbulbs “because we don’t shine as brightly as we did as Edison luminaries.” The first gathering planned by the formative members was successful, with nearly one-quarter of locally-residing retirees in attendance. Several retirees living out of the Miami Valley sent along regrets with best wishes to the group.

The initial attendees voted to meet on a monthly basis until, or unless, the attendance waned. The Culbertson Family graciously hosted a Christmas luncheon/brunch the first December. The group braved a devastating snowstorm the first February and the Roeths provided a thoroughly memorable autumn weekend outing at their southeast Ohio family retreat, Stony Broke, a couple of years later. We have experienced and survived family losses, gains, illnesses, marriages, births and a host of world-class travel adventures. Brunches have been attended by as few as 3 or 4 (rare), and as many as a score and a half. At the request of many, we have expanded the group to include former long-time Edison employees, and Dimbulb “wannabees.” Over time we have settled in on brunches that are normally held on the second Wednesday of the month at the Tim Hortons location in Piqua. Occasionally we meet elsewhere, as is the case this month.

September 14, 2011 is the official fifth anniversary of the Dimbulbs. We decided to meet on the Edison main campus, and were welcomed to do so by Edison’s current president, Dr. Cristobal Valdez. The dining room adjacent to, and entered from the Edison cafeteria has been reserved for the occasion. Edison professional, Ryan Honeyman, will take the fifth anniversary photograph at or near 11 a.m. We encourage you to come as early as 9 a.m. and stay on campus as long as you like; the dining room is reserved until 1 p.m.

Always remember – if you don’t join us for a brunch,
you will be missed.

Try to Remember...

2011-08-17T07:53:00.001-04:00

August Brunch Photos

2011-08-10T21:15:00.003-04:00

August Brunch Update

2011-08-10T18:04:00.001-04:00

The Dimbulbs of Edison met on Wednesday, August 10 for the monthly brunch. As is typical in the summer months, we had a turnout of nearly 20 members. Joining us for the brunch this month was Dr. Cristobal Valdez, new president at Edison.

Next month the Dimbulbs will gather at the main campus of Edison to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the founding of our group of retirees and friends. A group photo is planned to commemorate the occasion. We sincerely hope you will be a part of the gathering and group photo.

Monthly Brunch Reminder

2011-08-01T15:05:00.001-04:00

The August Brunch will be on Wednesday, the 10th at 10 a.m.

We hope you can make it to visit with your former colleagues.

May You Have Passions In Retirement

2011-07-31T11:10:00.001-04:00

http://video.nytimes.com/video/2011/07/08/automobiles/collectibles/100000000895665/two-classics-one-car.html

July Brunch Pictures

2011-07-13T15:29:00.006-04:00

July Brunch Reminder

2011-07-09T08:06:00.001-04:00

Wednesday, July 13, 10 a.m. 'til Noonish.

Come hear tales of travel and adventure,

news of family and friends.

Thrill to stories of Edison in the present. Greet new retirees.

Relive the great times gone by.

Remember - if you're not there, you will be missed.

*** Fifth Anniversary group photo will be taken at the September Brunch.***

Brunch Reminder

2011-06-06T06:56:00.000-04:00

June Brunch - Wednesday, June 8, 10 a.m.

We had a great turnout (17) in May.

Shooting for 20+ in June.

Brunch Reminder and News for Dimbulbs and Friends

2011-05-06T15:30:00.000-04:00

We had a great turnout at the April Brunch with the return of our snowbirds, Jim Hart's safe return from a tour of China and a surprise visit from former Edison faculty member Gary Tucker. Welcome to our group, Gary. Gary's visit brought to mind the need to make sure we are reaching out to Edison retirees and former employees by every means possible. If you have contact information for any of these folks, please be sure to forward it to me so that we can include everyone in our communication efforts.

Pat (Heckler) Market reports that she and husband, Rick, went to Goodyear, Arizona to see the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians play in spring training. They were there for several days and had a great trip. Rick is retiring from American Trim (Stolle's) in Sidney after 40 years. They were also planning a long-awaited two week trip to Florida.

Mary Beth Aust-Keefer is retiring in June from her position at Clark State Community College. She intends to be a more regular visitor to Dimbulb events. Congratulations to you, Mary Beth. [AustkeeferM@clarkstate.edu]

Keith and Colleen Roeth have a busy summer in store as they host the marriage of son, Todd, at their country home in southeast Ohio. Keith says family dogs will figure prominently in the wedding ceremony. We hope Keith froze plenty of spring morels for appetizers.

Also this summer, Jim Hart will be riding in and helping with a coast-to-coast bicycle tour that begins in Washington state. He may not do the extreme eastern part across New England; been there, done that.

Finally, Phil Lootens is driving a beautiful new truck that was forced upon him. Sure, Phil. We know she twisted your arm severely.

See you at the Brunch!

Reminder - Monthly Brunch

2011-04-11T12:23:00.003-04:00

The April edition of the Dimbulbs Brunch is scheduled for Wednesday, April 13 at Tim Horton's in Piqua. We hope to see many in attendance for the first brunch of spring.

April 1 - Start of a New Month Following the End of an Era

2011-04-01T09:24:00.000-04:00

Reminder - the brunch this month is on Wednesday, April 13. Join us, please, at Tim's.

Brunch Day

2011-03-10T13:00:00.004-05:00

We're happy to report that we had a good turnout for the brunch yesterday with some smiling faces that we hadn't seen for a while. This month, as last, we've tried the second Wednesday of the month instead of the first. Last month that change was primarily weather related; this month it was more purposeful as we have a couple of loyal Dimbulbs that have a conflict with standing meetings on the first Wednesday.

After a short discussion yesterday we've decided to stay with the second Wenesday of the month for the next few months. However, if that day each month, or any other, is bad for you, please let us know and we'll try to make it work for everyone in the best way possible. The first Wednesday is easy to remember, but we don't want to shut anyone out by making an arbitrary choice. As we move through '11 we'll continue to inform you of the day each month so that you may plan ahead and join us as often as possible.

Have a Dimbulb day!

Retirements

2011-03-05T13:44:00.000-05:00

The ranks of Edison retirees continue to grow:

Dimbulbs Brunch Reminder - March

2011-03-01T12:34:00.002-05:00

A quick reminder that the Dimbulbs' monthly brunch date has been changed to the second Wednesday, March 9. Same location, same time, different day.

We hope to see a big turnout to bid adieu to winter and talk of our ice endeavors from the past couple of months. As always we'll share stories of travels and family happenings as we reminisce of our time at Edison.

New President - From the DDN

2011-02-10T07:27:00.000-05:00

By Christopher Magan, Staff Writer

10:57 PM Wednesday, February 9, 2011

PIQUA — The Edison Community College board of trustees have picked the provost and CEO of a Minnesota college to be the next leader of the school.

Cristobal Valdez was named as the only finalist for the position after trustees interviewed four candidates that were invited to campus earlier this month. There were initially 60 applicants for the position.

Valdez served as Minnesota State and Technical College CEO and provost at the Detroit Lakes campus, according to an Edison news release. He earned a doctor of education degree from Oregon State University last year.

“I am humbled, honored and extremely excited by this rich and rare opportunity provided by the board of trustees,” Valdez said in a statement. “Together we will move the college into a bright future.”

Valdez was the unanimous pick of the Edison board, said Judy Hartman, a member who chaired the search committee.

Edison is working to finalize the details of Valdez’s contract. He will take over for Kenneth Yowell who is retiring after 23 years with the college.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2342 or cmagan@DaytonDailyNews.com.

March Brunch - Day Change

2011-02-10T07:10:00.001-05:00

The Dimbulbs of Edison met for Brunch, yesterday, February 9. We had a good turnout for a winter Brunch and found that several members have conflicts on the first Wednesday each month. We will again meet on the second Wednesday next month and take a look at each month's Brunch day going forward. Please check our Website calendar; monthly e-mail messages will also keep you informed of meeting dates.

February Brunch - Today's The Day

2011-02-09T07:16:00.000-05:00

Has Edison Board Chosen The Next President?

2011-02-04T09:09:00.001-05:00

Cris Valdez, Provost, Minnesota State Community and Technical College as shown on MSCTC Website:

Ice, Wind, Snow - So Goes Groundhog Day

2011-02-02T09:34:00.005-05:00

Cancellations and Delays

All Edison Campuses are CLOSED Wednesday, February 2. Students, please check Blackboard for messages from your instructors. Please be careful today! Men's and Women's basketball scheduled for Wednesday, February 2 has been POSTPONED until Thursday, February 3. Shake off the cabin fever and cheer on your Chargers!

Tim Hortons remains open, and empty. Dimbulbs, otherwise known as The Wise, meet next week, February 9, for monthly brunch.

Edison Closes!

2011-02-01T07:55:00.002-05:00

All Edison Campuses are CLOSED Tuesday, February 1. Students, please check Blackboard for messages from your instructors. Please be careful today!

Dimbulbs, please check your supply of cocoa. Be Dimful today!

February Brunch - Day Change

2011-01-31T12:05:00.001-05:00

Please Note - The Dimbulbs are not faint of heart, but wise as owls.

February Brunch changed to the second Wednesday, February 9.

Retirement Congratulations

2011-01-29T10:57:00.000-05:00

Pat (Heckler) Market became the latest Edison retiree and newest Dimbulbs member upon her retirement at year's end. Congratulations Pat!

Tim Hortons

2011-01-23T10:50:00.001-05:00

Thrifty Dimbulbs will check their Sunday newspaper for Tim's coupons valid through 2/13/11.

Old Friends

2011-01-21T12:12:00.000-05:00

Take a moment...

For an old friend today.

Wintering

2011-01-17T16:55:00.001-05:00

It's a tough job, but someone has to help support

the economic security of underdeveloped regions.

January Brunch

2011-01-03T08:57:00.000-05:00

First Brunch of 2011

Wednesday, January 5, 10 a.m. or thereabouts...

Happy Holidays

2010-12-24T08:45:00.000-05:00

Scherger Family Newsletter 2010

2010-12-13T16:00:00.000-05:00

Holiday Luncheon December 10

2010-12-09T23:52:00.002-05:00

At the college, main campus 11:30 a.m. Don't shilly-shally.

Being Golden In Cold Weather

2010-12-09T10:54:00.000-05:00

Retirement Party - Dick Bollenbacher

2010-11-29T20:40:00.000-05:00

December Brunch

2010-11-28T18:30:00.000-05:00

Wednesday, December 1, 10 a.m.

Tim Horton's - Piqua

2010-11-23T02:15:00.000-05:00

About Aging

2010-11-22T08:37:00.000-05:00

"Even when we are young, we glimpse it sometimes, and nod our heads when a grandfather dies," writes Donald Hall in his poem "Affirmation." The it he refers to is, of course, age, and its attendant sense of mortality. Similarly, Julia Kasdorf, in her poem "First Gestures," alludes to the discovery, early in life, that all things will eventually disappear: "Among the first we learn is good-bye, your tiny wrist between Dad’s forefinger and thumb forced to wave bye-bye to Mom."

Poems about aging at Poets.org.

Condolences

2010-11-19T17:22:00.002-05:00

We note with sadness the passing of Larry D. Gilliland, age 70, of Casstown, Ohio, on Friday, November 19, 2010 at the Covington Care Center, Covington, Ohio. He was born on July 14, 1940 in Piqua, Ohio to the late Vional Gilliland and Dorothy (Gump) Gilliland Ashman. His wife of 50 years of marriage, Shirley A. (Widener) Gilliland survives.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00PM on Monday, November 22, 2010 at Baird Funeral Home, Troy with Rev. Evan Garber officiating. Interment will follow in Casstown Cemetery, Casstown, Ohio. Friends may call two hours prior to the service at the funeral home. Friends may view the full obituary and express condolences to the family through Baird Funeral Home.

Monthly Brunch

2010-10-30T08:25:00.000-04:00

Our November brunch is Wednesday, the 3rd,
10 a.m., at Tim Horton's in Piqua.

Condolences - Robert H. Cox

2010-10-02T15:51:00.002-04:00

Robert H. Cox, 72, of 1738 Letitia Drive, passed away Thursday, Sept. 30, 2010, at 7:58 p.m. at Dorothy Love Retirement Community.

He was born Jan. 25, 1938, in Canton, the son of the late Robert L. Cox and his mother, Maxine (Gugleman) Cox, who survives and resides in Minerva.

On Sept. 4, 1960, Robert married Jeanene Berkowitch, who survives him, along with his son, Dr. Robert H. Cox, and wife, Dr. Luz-Eugenia Cox-Fuenzalida, of Norman, Okla. Also surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Mark (Daria) Curtner, of Sidney; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and a sister, Sandy Cox, of Manhattan Beach, Calif.

He was preceded in death by one son, Lindsey Cox, and one sister, Polly Mueller.

Robert was retired from a career as a professor for Edison Community College in Piqua, where he taught classes on accounting, finance and real estate. During more than 25 years at Edison Community College, he served as chair of the department of business and as an officer for the Ohio Business Teachers' Association. He was a member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ. An avid hobbyist, Robert enjoyed collecting Lionel Toy Trains and was a member of the West Central Ohio Railroad Club.

Funeral services will be conducted Monday, Oct. 4, 2010, at 10 a.m. at the Cromes Funeral Home & Crematory, 302 S. Main Ave., by Terry Mintchell. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery, Sidney.

The family will receive friends on Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m.

Condolences may be expressed to the Cox family at http://www.cromesfh.com/

Critique of the Annual Convocation

2010-09-10T15:41:00.001-04:00

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

Jack Kramer is signing off!

2010-08-25T18:25:00.003-04:00

Hit the road, Jack!

August 31st, 2010

2-4 pm

Edison Community College Atrium

Join us in celebrating his retirement.

Monthly Brunch

2010-08-02T09:29:00.002-04:00

Our August brunch is Wednesday, the 4th, 10 a.m., at Tim Horton's in Piqua.

Senior Exercise

2010-07-25T17:17:00.000-04:00

As retirees age it is important to maintain a regular fitness and exercise regimen. If you're just starting, take it slow and increase your workouts within your own ability.

Congratulations to the Administration

2010-07-22T09:46:00.000-04:00

After an absence of only a couple of months, we have reports that the Stars and Stripes once again graces the college campus. We sincerely hope this one is not eventually removed in tatters.

Well done, y'all.

We will wait for our friends at Illuminator to tell us if apple pie is back in favor.

Condolences

2010-07-15T20:59:00.002-04:00

With sadness we report that Randi Wheaton's mother, Willie Mae Harris, passed away July 11, 2010 at Heartland of Piqua. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday at Melcher-Sowers funeral home in Piqua. Services will follow at the funeral home at 1 p.m. (Full Obituary)

July Monthly Brunch

2010-07-07T13:11:00.000-04:00

For those wanting to know - yes, Amanda did come to the brunch, and, yes, she was wearing her halo. Slightly tilted, but in place nonetheless. Also attending were first-timer Jim Funkhouser, former professor David Johnson, equipped with his fishing boat, and current professor Essinger.

Next brunch: August 4.

Trivia question - what Edison staffer joined the college in November 1990?

Brunch at Tim's

2010-07-02T08:35:00.001-04:00

July 7, 2010

Please join us at 10 a.m. at Tim Horton's in Piqua for the next Dimbulb's Brunch.

An Era of Retirements

2010-06-30T09:14:00.004-04:00

Retirement plan? Ha! I'm glad you asked. To be perfectly honest, I've been in touch with a gentleman from Africa who is transferring eight million dollars into my bank account as we speak. And I've started a new T-shirt business as well. Life is good!

Under the Bus

2010-06-28T00:42:00.001-04:00

This year's CQIN adventure continues to do good work. GO TEAM! As it turned out, they were true innovators after all, but acting not as quickly as everyone would have liked.

Celebration Time.

No Flag at Edison

2010-06-24T11:22:00.001-04:00

The Dimbulbs blog has noted that the United States flag no longer flies over Edison. Inquiring minds want to know if this a political statement being made by the administration, a lack of patriotic fervor or simply further evidence of a college in the midst of continuing malaise.

It's Hard to Say Goodbye - The Chronicle of Higher Education

2010-04-27T15:40:00.001-04:00

April 25, 2010

By Dennis M. Barden (Link courtesy of MBAK)

Why do presidents stay too long in a job? Why do they risk their accomplishments—and thus, their legacy—by overstaying their welcome? Is it hubris? Self-deception? Duty? Confusion about what to do next? Fear of mortality? Cluelessness?

Happily, as search consultants, my colleagues and I are not charged with figuring out the whys and wherefores of that all-too-familiar syndrome. But we do find ourselves charged with helping institutions figure out solutions to the leadership dilemma it creates.

Don't misunderstand me: I am a big fan of college and university presidents. Virtually all the ones I know are mission driven, intent upon doing the right thing, and more than adequately self-aware. At least, they are when I meet them, which is, more often than not, when they are hired in the first place. They take office in a flush of excitement, and pour enormous amounts of energy, intellect, and personal capital into what needs to be done for the future of their institutions.

But many don't finish that way...

Then why do people hang on past their expiration dates?

See the full article at the Chronicle.

Dennis M. Barden is a senior vice president and director of the higher-education practice at Witt/Kieffer, an executive-search firm that specializes in searches for academic and administrative leaders in academe, health care, and nonprofit organizations.

The Search For A New President - Redux

2010-04-26T15:36:00.001-04:00

Wherein the Dimbulbs will offer continuing words of support and guidance to the Board.

1. Your choice, no matter the person, will improve the Edison situation dramatically, keeping in mind the need to cut loose the inner circle.

2. As you form the committee be careful not to involve The Five, a major part of your current problem, and the source of most discontent.

3. Rely heavily on input from faculty leaders. The faculty is the backbone of the college and the area most ignored in the current environment.
4. Form a committee with a broad cross section of stakeholders. We would also suggest, respectfully, that you call upon Dimbulbs for input as they have nothing to gain by the choice you make other than a bright future for their institution. They can give much from their wealth of knowledge and will do so without reservation.

Condolences

2010-04-12T08:01:00.001-04:00

With sadness we note the passing of John Culbertson, Beth's husband of 42 years. John died Sunday, April 11, 2010 at his residence. He was born May 29, 1943 in Columbus, Ohio to the late Raymond and Kathryn (Russell) Culbertson. (Full obituary)

A memorial celebration for John will be held at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, April 14, at Baird Funeral Home in Troy. Visitation hours are from 4 to 8 on Tuesday.

Jane Kretschmann lost her brother, Tom, over the weekend. Tom resided in Alabama.

Yowell Announces April 2011 Retirement

2010-04-07T09:13:00.000-04:00

Unknown - the Board's retirement gift. Ferrari? Lifetime supply of hair gel?

Jump in here with your suggestions for an appropriate farewell.

What Do Dimbulbs Do When They Retire?

2010-03-19T09:52:00.000-04:00

Sometimes they toast the coming of spring.

What Do Dimbulbs Do When They Retire?

2010-02-20T09:34:00.001-05:00

Sometimes they renew their wedding vows.

An Era of Retirements

2010-02-04T13:40:00.003-05:00

At the Dimbulbs monthly brunch on Wednesday we reflected on our shared appreciation of retirement. For most people it is a golden era that allows the freedom to pursue long delayed dreams of travel, voracious reading, avocations, volunteer activities and, as one of our esteemed members once stated, the delicious savoring of small, everyday pleasures. For those waiting for your time to retire, we can say to you that it is as good as you think it will be when you get here.

We also talked about the current and pending retirements of this year. We have heard of many, and though we do not have official public confirmations, we can say that we understand why many at the college are sad because of these losses. The people that have retired and will retire this year are good people, great teachers, administrators and staff. These retirements will leave huge holes in the fabric of Edison and forever change its character. We are sad for you because of that, but look forward to our friends and colleagues joining our ranks. Welcome, y'all. Pull up a hammock.

Excerpted from The Sociopath Next Door, by clinical psychologist Dr. Martha Stout

2010-01-28T17:42:00.001-05:00

Imagine - if you can - not having a conscience, none at all, no feelings of guilt or remorse no matter what you do, no limiting sense of concern for the well-being of strangers, friends, or even family members. Imagine no struggles with shame, not a single one in your whole life, no matter what kind of selfish, lazy, harmful, or immoral action you had taken.

And pretend that the concept of responsibility is unknown to you, except as a burden others seem to accept without question, like gullible fools.

Now add to this strange fantasy the ability to conceal from other people that your psychological makeup is radically different from theirs. Since everyone simply assumes that conscience is universal among human beings, hiding the fact that you are conscience-free is nearly effortless.

You are not held back from any of your desires by guilt or shame, and you are never confronted by others for your cold-bloodedness. The ice water in your veins is so bizarre, so completely outside of their personal experience, that they seldom even guess at your condition.

In other words, you are completely free of internal restraints, and your unhampered liberty to do just as you please, with no pangs of conscience, is conveniently invisible to the world.

You can do anything at all, and still your strange advantage over the majority of people, who are kept in line by their consciences will most likely remain undiscovered.

The Board Policy on No Confidence Votes

2010-01-28T10:51:00.000-05:00

Didn't know there was one - what?

At last. The kingdom is secure and the serfs can return to being servile.

Congratulations!

2010-01-21T07:52:00.000-05:00

We hear it's official; the Board voted a raise for Administrative and Classified staff. The "financial genius" is at work for you again, as declared by the chair.

How will you spend your extra pay?

Good Luck To You Tomorrow!

2010-01-19T10:19:00.000-05:00

The Board won't fix the problem, but at least they can vote a raise for you after all this time. Didn't have any problem allowing big bonii, so maybe they can do something right for a change.

What Do Dimbulbs Do When They Retire?

2010-01-17T13:22:00.000-05:00

Well, sometimes they rent a motorboat and go cruising on the Gulf!

Is Your Boss a Psychopath?

2010-01-12T18:07:00.011-05:00

http://blogs.bnet.co.uk/sterling-performance/2010/01/12/is-your-boss-a-psychopath/

"...who represent one to three percent of the population at large. In prison they can’t do too much harm. In the boardroom, they are lethal. My guess is that 20-30 percent of CEOs have psychopathic tendencies..."

Here are the main traits of a psychopath – see how your boss rates:

They are highly egocentric: the world exists only for their own benefit
They have superficial charm and are prepared to say anything to get their way, more or less regardless of the truth
They feel no guilt or shame about any of their actions: they really do not care what other people think or how they are affected
They take excessive risk and discount the risk of error, getting caught or causing damage to others
They either blame others or completely deny that there are any problems: they never take personal responsibility for setbacks
They can be highly manipulative

eBossWatch To Watch Edison Story Unfold

2010-01-10T16:29:00.001-05:00

Headline: Professors sue and demand ouster of Edison College president.

Keep circling those wagons no matter how much it costs. Stay the course. After all, it is just so Inconsequential. You betcha.

Weather Update

2010-01-08T15:57:00.000-05:00

Wanting to assure everyone that slogged and sloshed in through the snow and cold in Ohio today, that everything is just fine in Texas. No big deal on a commute, and no big job requirements to fulfill. We also want to assure you that things are going fine at the condos as well.

Y'all have fun now this weekend, y'hear?

On Being Dim...

2010-01-06T16:00:00.000-05:00

It was frigid, just into the teens, with light snow punctuating the grayness of an Ohio day in Piqua. Yet, there were nearly ten hardy souls, bundled and bright-eyed for the monthly brunch. A returning Dimbulb, absent far too long, and a first time Dimbulb bruncher made the gathering delightful despite the absence of our Snowbirds gone south.

Each time it is as we have come to expect - exciting, refreshing and heartwarming; the tales and remembrances always renew us. Yes, there are times we grieve, but often we rejoice, finding comfort and joy in the lives and life events of our friends. Grandchildren join families, sons and daughters wed and move on, travels astound us, achievements are praised and applauded.

This day we learned of Nancy's book, to be read, then treasured. And we laughed at stories of flying squirrels, marauding coyotes, embarrassing encounters and the humaness of all that matter. We dwelt briefly on the college, and wished goodness for our former colleagues in the new year. Before the last of us left, and only by accident, did we learn from another table of a former student of ours, now all doctor degreed and teaching.

Becoming Dim is different for each of us. Some rush headlong into the joy of pursuing a lifelong dream. Others need time to leave the grind behind and find a new rythm for life. The paths are as a varied as we each are and have been. Yet to all comes the felicitous warmth of Dimness and the legacy we left for others.

What Are Your Hopes And Dreams For 2010?

2010-01-04T10:24:00.000-05:00

Without rehashing the misery that was 2009 at Edison, you have likely decided to be positive and upbeat about the prospects for the coming year. We all know that Edison people are special for so many reasons, one of which is that you are now focused on providing your students with the best possible higher education experience at the lowest possible cost.

As you go about this year you also have hopes and dreams for yourself, your family, your college, your community. We would like to hear those hopes and dreams. Please send us comments to tell the world what hopes and dreams you have.

What Do Dimbulbs Do When They Retire?

2010-01-01T17:27:00.001-05:00

Sometimes they take time to admire Chihuly glass.

Or have another "Holy Schmoly!" moment.

Unforgettable Quotes and Phrases Issued To The Canaille In '09

2009-12-31T11:34:00.001-05:00

"Inconsequential." "...without merit." "A small group of troublemakers, known to almost everyone." "I told her not to do it." "...with ulterior motives." "We will speak with one voice."

But the absolute classic hissy fit rant of the year gave us so much more to remember. Most of us have only seen this behavior in private. And he's worried about an image he wants for Edison? So much for naïveté.

Thanks for the memories.

"Pray That Your Boss Gets Fired"

2009-12-27T08:10:00.000-05:00

Speaking With One Voice

2009-12-21T07:47:00.001-05:00

What was once a conscious choice taught by ACCT now becomes a necessity - before the Federal bar.

Skunk Lovers in High Places

2009-12-19T12:38:00.006-05:00

We confess. We've been driven by a prejudice that we did not realize was just that - a prejudice.

Like most common folks of this beautiful part of Ohio, we've assumed that everyone has an aversion to the stink created by the skunks we've mostly been able to avoid in our lives. We didn't understand why some folks could be close to the skunk and come to love it. Some of the hens hereabouts seemed to really like the skunk, though most roosters avoided him like the plague. We just didn't get it!

It turns out that a fairly high percentage of otherwise normal folk are skunk stink lovers. Perhaps the ratio is even higher in the Upper Miami Valley, especially among certain elite elements of our community.

For more insight into the skunk stink loving phenomenon visit:

http://www.skunklover.com/
http://www.northrup.org/photos/skunk/
http://carpelibrisreviews.com/skunk-a-love-story-by-justin-courter-review-giveaway/

So, there you have it - skunk stink loving is actually not that rare. Always lovely to look at, and always well-groomed, we now know the skunk also appeals to many people because of its unique odor. We will withdraw our uninformed prejudice, but also keep our distance from the skunk, thank you very much.

Le Pew - "It's Good To Be King!"

How Many Times Will The Board Circle The Wagons?

2009-12-18T17:13:00.001-05:00

Perhaps there is no price too high. Meanwhile, hardworking and poorly-paid employees continue to wait for justice on pay, raises and moral leadership.

Federal Case - Ex-professor sues Edison College

2009-12-18T08:12:00.009-05:00

Justia.com:

http://dockets.justia.com/docket/court-ohsdce/case_no-3:2009cv00473/case_id-135122/

The Dayton Daily News:

http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/dayton-news/former-edison-professor-sues-college-president-455166.html

More press coverage for Edison as the Piqua Daily Call reports on the Essinger vs. Yowell, et al, lawsuit.

http://www.dailycall.com/main.asp?SectionID=86&SubSectionID=164&ArticleID=161661

Update: The Dimbulbs blog has seen the case filing and can report that it is 17 pages in length and extremely detailed in the causes for action. We also know the case filing has been widely distributed at the college.

What Do Dimbulbs Do When They Retire?

2009-12-17T08:57:00.000-05:00

Sometimes they host wonderful Christmas brunches.

What Do Dimbulbs Do When They Retire?

2009-12-15T07:17:00.000-05:00

Sometimes they get wet, on purpose!

Scherger Family Newsletter

2009-12-13T20:45:00.003-05:00

Season’s Greetings! December, 2009

On behalf of the entire Scherger Family we wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We hope this letter finds all of you well, and in good health this Holiday Season.

This year has been busy as usual here in California; Roger is still walking every day and keeping busy in retirement with the Stockdale Christian School Board. Ruth is in her fifth year teaching Science at Bakersfield Christian High School and is Science Department Chairman. Ruth and Roger are very involved with Church and Bible study where we have met great Christian friends here in Bakersfield.

Chris & Mandy bought a house in the Indianapolis, Indiana area, and they will be traveling to California this year for Christmas. Chris is still at the Art Institute of Indianapolis and Mandy is an ESL teacher in the Indianapolis Public Schools near their new home. Benj moved to Bakersfield, CA this fall and is attending Cal State Unv. Bakersfield; he was in a theater play and also classical guitar ensemble. He hopes to get into a Master’s program in the near future. Benj and Rufus traveled to Ohio last spring and summer, he also did some work in Oklahoma. It was quite a car trip across country for a man and his dog.

This year in July we flew to Indiana to visit Chris and Mandy and than went over to visit Ruth’s sister near Akron. Then we went on to the Home Land of Tiffin, Ohio for a niece’s wedding. The night before the wedding, we had dinner with several of Roger’s old High Schools fiends. After the Wedding, we headed back to Indiana and visited friends in Sidney and Piqua in our old home area. Even stopped at Edison Community College for a visit in Piqua, Ohio, and had dinner with several old Sidney friends; it was a great time. In February both Ruth and Roger attended the ACSI conference in Monterey, CA, Roger being a Board member of Stockdale Christian Schools.

WE hope if you’re ever in or near Bakersfield, CA you will visit us; our door is always open to friends and famil. Again, we wish you all a Blessed Holiday Season and may God bless each one of you... Best Wishes from the SCHERGER Family.

Roger & Ruth Scherger Rscherger@bak.rr.com

What Do Dimbulbs Do When They Retire?

2009-12-07T20:17:00.001-05:00

Sometimes they visit old friends still working at the college.

More than one. Lots more...

2009-12-05T10:20:00.003-05:00

Similar boss; similar boards?

http://ebosswatch.wordpress.com/2009/12/04/washington-state-community-college-president-accused-of-being-a-bully/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/eBossWatch/143339320327?v=wall

Must be an Ohio community college epidemic thing - Edison, Washinton State, Rhodes, Clark, et al...

Wonder if all the trustees go to ACCT with their presidents. Hmmmmmm.

What Do Dimbulbs Do When They Retire?

2009-12-04T08:26:00.004-05:00

Sometimes they take long walks by the ocean.

Sick Organizations

2009-12-03T14:37:00.001-05:00

"Perhaps saddest of all, they lose touch with their humanity."

http://www.execupundit.com/2007/02/sick-organizations.html

What Do Dimbulbs Do When They Retire?

2009-11-28T08:31:00.002-05:00

Sometimes they play with the grandkids on Thanksgiving.

10 Tips For Surviving A Bad Boss

2009-11-25T08:08:00.010-05:00

From HR.com

The boss ensures that everyone is on edge in the office, encouraging petty rivalries. He/she often barks disapproval of you in front of co-workers and tolerates toxic behavior from your co-workers. He/she won’t stand up for you on critical issues, takes credit for your work and at the same time refuses to provide the resources needed for a good job. Sound familiar?

According to the career experts at Bernard Haldane Associates, a career management firm, one can survive a bad boss, but the personal cost may be significant.

“There’s not a lot of hope for saving the situation with a bad boss,” said Jerry Weinger, chairman of Bernard Haldane Associates. “Consider a job change. Although a bad boss won’t necessarily kill your career, the cost of advancement may be too high.”

Bernard Haldane Associates has a few tips that may help manage, deal with and survive the “Bad Boss” situation:

•Don’t Quit, unless you can survive three to five months without a paycheque.

•Start Job Hunting. It’s easier to tolerate bad behavior on a temporary basis.

•Don’t Go Over Your Boss’ Head. Tattletales usually get fired.

•Kill Your Boss with Kindness. Build the best rapport you can, especially if you may want a reference later in your career.

•Respect the Title, even if you don’t respect the person.

•Manage Upward. Create lines of communication with company managers and possible mentors.

•Keep Your Confidence Up. Avoid taking a bad boss personally.

•Understand How Your Boss Best Receives Information; then rely primarily on that form of communication.

•Don''t Tell it Like it is During the Exit Interview. Remain calm about why you are leaving and provide documentation of your boss’s excesses.

•Never Complain about a bad boss during a job interview.

Be Thankful

2009-11-25T07:00:00.001-05:00

Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire,
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something
For it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times.
During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations
Because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge
Because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes
They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you’re tired and weary
Because it means you’ve made a difference.

It is easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are
also thankful for the setbacks.

GRATITUDE can turn a negative into a positive.
Find a way to be thankful for your troubles
and they can become your blessings.

Author Unknown

Headed in the Right Direction?

2009-11-25T06:37:00.002-05:00

From ThirdAge
By Jonny Bowden, Ph.D.

Life is full of options, there are the everyday choices—shorts or pants, sushi or Italian, the 405 or Sepulvada—and the life altering decisions—having a child, moving to another city, changing professions. The more mundane choices can be decided by weather, whim or traffic reports. But to make the really important decisions, those that determine the direction your life will take, you need to know where you are heading by mapping out your future. There is nothing more frustrating or energy-draining than living a life without direction.

To create a road map, start by checking your compass. Take two sheets of paper, on one write the heading, “What do I want more of in my life,” and on the second, “What do I want less of in my life.” If you take the time to really examine these questions, you’ll begin to recognize what’s meaningful and what’s meaningless. The next step is to use that information and write down three goals in each of the major areas of your life—Relationships, Career, Health, Spirituality, Financial and Personal. Make them real. Make them specific, measurable and truly meaningful to you.

You know the old saying, “I”ll believe it when I see it”? Well the first place you have to “see” your goal is in your mind. Remember, everything starts with your thoughts, everything from weight loss, to good health, to great relationships, to success in business. And that starts by simply visualizing yourself actually achieving your goals.

See the interesting thing about your mind is that at a deep, other-than-conscious level, it can’t really distinguish between reality and thoughts. That’s been demonstrated many times by brain scans- if you show someone an object= like an orange for example- and then you have them close their eyes and imagine the same orange, their brain scan shows virtually the same amount of activity in the same places of the brain, whether the object is real or just imagined. At some level your brain doesn’t know the difference. So if you set up an idea of a goal, and see it as if it’s happening, and put some mental energy and focus on it, you’ve actually sent a message to your subconscious that helps to make the goal more real.

By committing yourself to living a more meaningful life, and setting goals that move you in the right direction, you’ll gain the energy to tackle whatever obstacles you encounter. Many of my clients who’ve undertaken this exercise look back on the goals they wrote in their journal a few years ago and have been astonished to find that they’ve achieved a large number of them. When that happens, it’s time to write down some new goals.

So take a tip from the wisest and most successful people on the planet- set goals. And as you work toward accomplishing those goals, your energy will soar in a way that’s contagious.

As The Dimbulbs Blog Winds Down...

2009-11-19T15:25:00.004-05:00

We are retirees and other longtime former employees of Edison Community College, Piqua, Ohio. Many members of our informal club are now following the current crisis of leadership at Edison Community College. Our group, once primarily social, feels compelled to provide an opportunity for comment on the declining morale of our beloved institution and the loss of our joint legacy. We welcome former Board of Trustees members to join the group and the discussion. This is OUR community college!

The Mission: "I don't want them to believe me, I just want them to think." - Marshall McLuhan

"Our motivations are quite simple and aboveboard: to see the Board have full disclosure, to have the Board act upon unfiltered, factual information and to see Edison become an open, caring and productive workplace that serves its students and community with distinction and excellence." - excerpted from posting of June 5, 2009

Analysis:

Yowell - unapologetic to the end.

Elites - entrenched.

Board - intransigent.

The College - deeply troubled.

Dimbulbs Blog - Six Months of Operation, 62 posts, nearly countless heartfelt pleas for help. We do feel your pain - deeply. We will continue to lend an ear and voice to those that ask for help on how to navigate this horrid landscape. We will advise the Editorial Junta when asked.

Having said what we can, helped where we could and yet remaining your steadfast colleagues against an abusive administration, we now return to our primary role as a social organization that loves its former workplace, and all of you. As we close, please join us here when you can to see what the Dimbulbs of Edison are up to at any given time.

Adieu.

Summary of Significant Polls Taken on Dimbulbs Blog

Should Yowell Be Gone? Yes: 55 No: 1 Not Sure: 0 I told them not to hire him: 1

Rate Ken Yowell's Performance as a President: 5 - Outstanding 0 (0%), 4 - Good 0 (0%), 3 - Average 1 (3%), 2 - Poor 8 (24%), 1 - Extremely Poor 24 (72%)

Should a Vote of No Confidence be taken on Edison's Board of Trustees and Forwarded to Governor Strickland? Yes 42 (91%), No 2 (4%), Not Sure 2 (4%)

Has anger over unearned bonus payments subsided? Yes 0 (0%), No 33 (97%), Not sure 1 (2%)

Poll for Current Employees - I am Actively Seeking Employment Outside Edison or Plan to Retire Soon: Yes 20 (83%), No 4 (16%)

For Active, Non ESEA Employees - Do you support current organizing efforts? Yes 17 (85%), No 3 (15%)

We would have loved to have done a candid poll of individual board members!

We Are Counting On It

2009-11-16T17:15:00.001-05:00

As stewards of the college, the Board of Trustees of Edison Community College shall guide the college to its preferred future as measured against high standards of organizational health, innovation, and progress, and will maintain educational and public accountability.

Note to critical thinkers - tricky, that preferred future thing.

The Dimbulbs Over Time

2009-11-06T06:41:00.002-05:00

A Collection of Photos From the Past

The First Gathering of the Dimbulbs

Fred Verceles behind the lens.

September 27, 2006

Snow Day

February 2007

At NightSky

January 10, 2007

At Tim Hortons

At Stony Broke

October 11, 2009

Loch Loafin Beaver

October 11, 2009

Christmas Brunch at the Culbertsons'

December 2007

How Much Longer, the Ugliness Within?

2009-10-25T08:35:00.008-04:00

The beautiful colors of autumn have fully emerged this week in the three county region that is the province of Edison Community College. Explosive golden hues, brilliant reds and muted browns dot the landscape in sharp contrast to the clouded skies. At the college, the colorful trees outside are brilliant as well, in sharp contrast to the ugliness contained within the college walls. Beneath the surface within those walls is a seething rage that worsens daily as the failings and indiscretions of the administrative elite become evermore public and well known.

It is now fully six months past the time when massive missteps on the part of the elite finally caused an enforced silence at Edison to be broken. For years individuals suffered in solitutde as an incredible ego picked off single careers and threw away valued personnel. Finally, the faculty and other individual employees had reached the boiling point and would be silent no more. The Board heard from them in near unison, dismissed their claims and moved on as if nothing consequential had been spoken.

Emboldened by the inaction of the Board, the usual suspects went about an effort to continue to throw away talent that would not be silenced. The voices became louder and were joined by many who had left the college in disgust or been victimized by the same elite. Still, the voices and lamentations were ignored. A few efforts to mollify the emerging discontent were sent forth with no resulting action. There was an agreement to listen, but only under rules that meant no speaking could be reasonably considered by those ready to let the multitude of problems be known.

Quietly, and with stealth, unfair treatment and favoritism continued as before. But the formerly silent would be silent no more. They speak out in public now, to their family, friends, former colleagues and neighbors. They freely tell what was only whispered before at great risk to themselves. And they look for ways to escape the ugliness within the walls that will not be ended by those charged with that responsibility.

And so, one by one, the growing trickle of talent from Edison will soon become a flood. The elite will still have their perks, the Board their lovely travel and credits, and the ugliness will become decrepitude. The beauty outside the building will turn ugly and reflect the grotesque environment within.