Mr. Haberstich:

On June 17, you wrote:

"Let's ask Jay ("relevance is my business") Smith his secret. That great
sucking sound you hear when you're near Hutchinson, Kansas is people being
attracted to the Reno County Museum--whether they like it or not."

In spite of myself, and in spite of my fear that you and I will never agree
on anything, I would like to invite you to visit the Reno County Museum in
Hutchinson, Kansas and see for yourself what we do and why we do it.  Yes,
I'm a firm believer that museums must find a way to establish their relevance
in any community.  If "relevance is my business" is the tag you want to put
on me, then so be it.

As to "that great sucking sound" one hears near Hutchinson, Kansas--the sound
you really hear is that of a museum staff doing its best to serve the public
which entrusts us to collect, preserve, and interpret their history.

I think we're doing a pretty good job--but if I need the David Haberstich
seal of approval--then the invitation is open.  Come on out and visit Mr.
Haberstich.

Jay Smith
Executive Director
Reno County Museum
Hutchinson, Kansas

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The opinions expressed here are my own and may not necessarily be those of
the folks who authorize my paychecks.
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