[Reading-hall-of-fame] actions at IRA

[jim hoffman]

I write to you as colleagues and friends of IRA. I write in a state 
of sadness, anger and confusion. It has been reported to me, through 
several "unofficial" sources that Alan Farstrup has been fired as 
Executive Director of IRA. I have no details and attempts to get 
confirmation of this action have been met with silence. I cannot 
think of anyone who has given more to IRA than Alan and the thought 
of his dismissal in anticipation of his retirement is 
incomprehensible. . . . wrong, unfair, and on and on.  I cannot 
imagine the range of emotions Alan and his family are going through 
right now.  I am hoping that we, as members of the Hall of Fame, can 
start an open conversation about what is going on and the ways in 
which we can support Alan and IRA through difficult times. We are 
headed into a conference in just two weeks, with members of the 
organization not informed of this action. My inclination, honestly, 
is to protest this action by not attending the conference -- but I'm 
not sure what such an action taken by me or by  many would 
accomplish.  Can anyone shed light on the events that have unfolded 
and continue to unfold? What can we do individually or collectively 
to address the situation?

jim