As we begin interviewing counselors for our summer camp programs, I am once again reminded of how lucky I am to work here at the Cosmosphere. I am lucky because when I hear people talk about America's decline, I know it is not true. Each year the quality of young people who go way out of their way to apply for this most difficult job astounds me. They are aware, responsible, caring, mature and confident both in themselves and in their futures and they are everywhere. They are working all around this country in all sorts of improbable places, including the Cosmosphere. The only place you will not find them is on the news. Quiet greatness it seems is boring. I firmly believe this generation will not permit decline. Each year some of these amazing people find themselves turned away, for only the best of the best can work here. But, if those who apply here are any indication at all of what the future has to offer then the future is very bright, indeed.

When one spends much time in the world of academia, removed from the problems of the real world, one's vision can blur. Fortunately, for myself and my soon to be rabid followers in the blogosphere, this museum is not mired in academia. The Cosmosphere, I am fond of pointing out, is a working museum and as such offers its workers a rare opportunity to experience the best of both worlds. It is one such unique opportunity that I wish to share with you today. Are you ready? I sincerely doubt that you are. The Cosmosphere offers summer camp programs each year attended by students of all ages from all over America and sometimes even from distant lands. These camps focus on space science, space history, space exploration, teamwork, leadership and fun, so in order to work them an applicant has to be some kind of introverted space geek, right. Wrong! I am heavily involved in all aspects of the camps and when I first started at the Cosmosphere, admittedly in a previous century, I knew we had a moon and someone had walked on it and I really didn't care much about anything to do with space. I didn't hate it. I was just indifferent. Working here has obviously altered my view, but I steadfastly refuse to think of myself as some basement dwelling space nerd. No offense to basement dwelling nerds of any stripe is intended but you get the idea. Anyone who has talent and drive can work here and we need people with both to step up and apply to be camp counselors, directors and support staff. So, to all of you blogospheriacs out there who seek a challenge, I promise you this. If you apply and find yourself hired, you will step into the hardest job you ever loved. Follow the link. http://cosmo.org/ca_employment.htm Until next time, I bid you adieu.