Special guest Rick Segel joined the humor course on November 8 and had everyone laughing non-stop for an hour and a half! Rick is a streetsmart, down-to-earth business author and speaker. An internationally recognized speaker, Rick has presented to over 1400 audiences on 3 continents and in 44 states.  From his background as a downtown merchant, he understands the marketing strategies needed to survive in the current competitive retail market, and has helped seminar attendees bring these tools back to their businesses.  He has authored five audio programs, two training videos, and three books.  His newest book, Retail Business Kit for Dummies, published by Hungry Minds, Inc., became the #1 selling retail book in the United States in January. Laugh & Get Rich, published by Specific House, has been critically acclaimed as a must read for its insightful outlook at our entertainment based society, and has been translated into Japanese, Chinese, and Korean. Rick has appeared on over 100 radio and TV shows, including "Chronicle" and the "Sally Jessy Raphael Show."

Alums Pat Scannell and Nancy Sullivan participated in the humor course in early November. What a treat to have them there!.. They dove right into the activities and discussion based on Sheryl Savage and Steve Ward's excellent presentation on humor in the workplace. And guess what? They brought snacks with them! Now that's devotion! (and "conditioning" ha ha!...)

Dr. David Martin was guest speaker for the Nov. 18 CCT Forum. Engaging the group in challenging critical thinking exercises was the basis for discussing how to create learning environments that mediate critical thinking. What a workout we all had, but what exciting sparks flew around the room as everyone realized just how presumptuous our conclusions about information can be! Alum Basye Hendrix was there as well as several prospective applicants to the program.

A CCT alumni organization has been organized and is being chaired by Rob Norris. Several alum activities are planned this year including the launch of an alum news page for the website. An alum talent show is planned for April (should be lots of fun!) plus other events to be announced. If you'd like to contribute to this organization in some way please contact Rob at rnorrismail@.... He will be delighted to hear from you!

The whole month of April, there will be an exhibit featuring the art and imagination of Bill Oakes, a CCT alum who passed away recently. More information about this very special event, to he held in the Healey Library, 5th floor exhibit area, is forthcoming.