I live in a University town. One of the most positive benefits of living in such close proximity to a University is the access to RESOURCES!! I once read a bumper sticker that said (something like) dissent is the ultimate act of patriotism. Similarly, although I fuss regularly about college town idiosyncyrasies, I still think that our area has a lot to offer and many opportunities for personal and family education and enrichment. Just by being part of this community, residents have a steady stream of researchers, libraries, museums, planetariums, discounted student law clinic, discounted student dental clinic, volunteers, health classes, and lectures on almost any subject one is interested in.

For instance, each year, many people work or volunteer many hours in effort to put on a comprehensive symposium that pushes the boundaries of the original dream of the late Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King Jr. For over a month, the campus will be a host to history shaping and groundbreaking lectures, discussions, entertainment and programs - many of which are free. I am always entertained by the "reasons" people cannot make it. All the kids have school off and many employers give the whole or partial day off. Even without a nickel in your pocket, you can go downtown and park on an enforcement-free day, drop your kids (grades K-12) off so that they can learn, discuss, and have fun in lieu of the work of MLK all free with a courtesy lunch, and attend one of the 18 free public events including art, lectures, prominent speakers, and entertainment. What does one have to lose?? I don't get it!

I guess I must pose the following question: if, during the life of Dr. King, there had been a National Holiday to celebrate the life of Ghandi, what would he have done on that day to commemorate his life achievements?