I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues . . . editor notes issue #70

Sometimes it seems like the bad news is big (the debt deal, global warming) and the good news is little (one little kid inspired). But our constant focus on the bad news can lead some people to mistake our depression and anger for cynicism. We like to quote the Nigerian novelist Chinua Achebe: "When I have stopped criticizing Africa, you will know I have given up on Africa."

In a similar way, we in the nonprofit sector demonstrate our hope for the future by criticizing the present, and our idealism about America by our criticisms of America. And here at Blue Avocado we would add: when we have stopped criticizing the nonprofit sector, you will know we have given up on it.

Four substantial articles this issue, including the scoop on Getting a Foundation Job, Advice for Boards with New Executive Directors, and an Ask Rita column on Personnel Files. And Kim Klein contributes a Nonprofit Tax Quiz . . . take it with your friends!

Plus a new batch of Blue Avocado webinars coming up and a 2-Minute Vacation. Quick reminder: if you find Blue Avocado useful or fun, encourage others to subscribe. --Jan Masaoka

P.S. Another favorite quote: "Some problems are so complex that you have to be highly intelligent and well informed to be undecided about them." (Laurence Peter)

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Comments

Just wanted to let you know what a great job I think you’re doing with Blue Avocado. Congrats on another great issue!

I’ve told you this before but I’ll mention it again.  BlueAvocado is the only online publication I read from start to finish.

Ditto! Now if we could only get more Rick Cohen...

Always fantastic. Thank you.

I love your newsletter!

I second and "third" the positive comments! There are always articles of interest and substance. I recommend this resource to everyone I know working in the nonprofit sector.

Hello - I just have to tell you that I think your newsletters are fabulous and very informative.

I was reading your article on the nonprofit bookkeeping test and it couldn't have come at a better time! I would be very interested in receiving the Answer/Explanation Sheet, along with a Scoring Guide and list of training resources. Below, please find all the required information. -- Erin Spaulding

Dear Jan and Blue Avocado folks,

The newsletter sent today (8-9-11) was the best yet!! So much good info and I HAVE been looking for a foundation job--so great ideas and suggestions.

You all are doing great work for the nonprofit sector.   Thank you, H.L.

I read Blue Avocado as soon as it appears...and I read every bit of it. I always tell my non-profit colleagues to subscribe. I hope they have! Arlyce Currie

Thank you, Arlyce! Jan

You are what we all need for information and a lift to the spirits when the "Blues" overtake us!! Kay Sweeney Kateri Tekakwitha Fund

It's nice sitting at work . Distract from this tiresome work. Relax, and read the written information here :)

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