RE: Paleontology Funding/Spending Amounts (posted for R. Walsh)

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From: "Robert G. Walsh" <bflobob@buffnet.net>
To: "'paleonet-owner@nhm.ac.uk'" <paleonet-owner@nhm.ac.uk>
Subject: RE: Paleontology Funding/Spending Amounts
Date: Wed, 3 Jan 1996 18:29:48 -0500
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On Wednesday, January 03, 1996 9:33 AM, N.
MacLeod[SMTP:N.MacLeod@nhm.ac.uk] wrote:
>   In addition, does anyone have any idea how much is spent by the
>   public on paleontology-related products and activities each year?
>
>
Norm,

    I certainly can't speak with any authority regarding governmental or
overall public sector spending on paleontological products or activities,
but I can give you my personal perspective.

    As a child, I was fascinated by the sciences, particularly paleontology
and astronomy.  I remember my grandfather taking me to the Buffalo Museum
of Science in the early '60's many times.  These trips to the museum were
never complete without a purchase of a dinosaur figure from  the gift shop.

    As I grew, my interest in science continued and I studied chemistry at
the university.  I have since built a career as a chemist.  But the allure
of paleontology and astronomy continue.  Over the years, I have spent a
considerable amount of money on books, a telescope, computers, and other
science-related items.  I have also passed these interests on to my ten
year old daughter.  She has an impressive collection of plastic dinosaur
models and paleontological books.  While it is not likely that she will
pursue paleontology as a career, I am confident that she will maintain a
lifetime interest.

    Where does this all lead?  Well, obviously, I would like to see a
broadened outreach to the public at large.  Why?  Consider for a moment,
that not only are there many others like me who do spend money which
filters into the hands of paleonologists through book royalties and museum
funds, but that we are also voters!  And who elects those upon whom many
paleontologists are dependent upon for public funding?  Why,  the voting
public, of course!  So, you see, there are very good reasons to extend your
message to the general populace beyond merely sharing your passions and
life's work with others who share your interests.

Bob

E-mail:  bflobob@buffnet.net
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