Saturday, January 16, 2010

Elizabethtown College president announces retirement

I received the following text in an e-mail, which I've copied and pasted verbatim:


The following letter is being distributed to the campus community at the request of Elizabethtown College President Theodore Long.


January 15, 2010


Dear Friends in the Elizabethtown College Community,

This morning I informed the Board of Trustees of my intention to retire as President of Elizabethtown College, effective July 31, 2011. 

Since my appointment in 1996, I have devoted myself to helping the college realize its greatest possibilities, and it is now time for a new leader to move the institution even further ahead. The college has made notable progress in the past 15 years, and as we conclude some important work over the next year, this is a good time to launch a new stage in the college’s development. In addition, Betty and I are eager to enjoy some new experiences together while we remain vigorous and energetic.

From the very first, I fell in love with Elizabethtown – its mission, its people, the place – and my affection for the college has only grown over the years. I am deeply grateful to have had the opportunity to lead this wonderful institution and for the generous support all of you have extended to me through the years. My work here has been immensely rewarding, both for what the college has achieved and for the rich personal relationships I have developed over the years. 

I will certainly miss the rhythm of our work together, regular engagement with students, and the joyful life of this community. But I will leave knowing that the transforming work of education for service and leadership is in your good hands. And I will always cherish what we have accomplished together to advance the college’s historic mission in the 21st century, as I will your enduring friendship and colleagueship. 

There is more to be done before the summer of 2011, and I remain committed to achieving as much as possible in those 18 months. During that time, I also hope to see as many of you as possible to thank you personally for your support and for what you have contributed to Elizabethtown’s success. Because of you, I am confident that Elizabethtown will continue to flourish and to achieve new levels of excellence in the years ahead. 

Sincerely,


Theodore E. Long
President

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

More track outages start at train station

Train riders at the Elizabethtown Train Station may have noticed track outages that started yesterday. The outages are in effect for the north side platform until Jan. 8.

As occurred last month, the outages will occur between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. so the contractor can  install platform decking for the newly extended platform. Signs are posted to direct train riders to the proper platform during the outage.

Work is progressing on schedule and significant progress is expected in the months ahead. The south side platform decking installation is scheduled for Jan. 11 to 15.  All of the work is weather permitting.  Once the decking has been put in place and the temporary stairs erected, then work will proceed on the main portions of the existing platform.

Work continues inside the train station building. Hazardous materials such as asbestos have been removed, and the new floor in the basement of the building has been poured. Work is proceeding to shore the floor joists for the first floor. Roofing work will continue with the installation of a completely new slate roof that will match the former roof in style and construction.

PARKING NOTE:  The borough and Susquehanna Wagman Associates have signed an agreement that will permit riders to use the rear of the Sycamore Square commercial development for temporary parking during the train station construction project. Ninety spaces have been set aside for use by riders provided that the riders obey the designated parking areas and respect the property. Signs will be erected that specify the areas that are designated for temporary parking (those spaces closest to Bainbridge Street behind the vacant commercial properties).

In addition, two-hour parking signs will be installed on Masonic Drive in front of the commercial properties to preclude daily parking by train riders. Parking in front of the Sycamore Square development impacts the customers and staff of the tenant occupying the building closest to the train station. The borough will be responsible for snow plowing in the lot during the construction period.  Vehicles and items in the vehicles are the sole responsibility of the owners and neither of Susquehanna Wagman Associates nor the borough.

Newly elected councilman sworn in at Borough Council's reorganization meeting

Neil J. Ketchum, a former member of the Elizabethtown Planning Commission, was sworn in as a member of Borough Council at its Jan. 4 reorganization meeting.

Ketchum was elected in November and is filling a post that Councilman Chuck Mummert left to run for mayor. In his first official duties as mayor, Mummert swore in Ketchum and two incumbent councilmen, Dr. C. Dale Treese and Meade G. Bierly.

At the reorganization, Borough Council also elected Councilman Phil Clark as president of council and Councilman Tom Shaud as vice president.