These are dire fiscal times for all levels of government, industry and learning centers. Rising costs, diminishing endowments, and a devastated, weakened economy will likely have a serious affect on all college and university bottom lines; and that usually means higher tuition fees, which in turn may result in lower enrollment, perhaps significantly. On the other hand, the deteriorating economy might be a window of opportunity for an institution of higher learning, which, under the right circumstances, could respond to the challenge of the financial uncertainty currently facing many students by establishing a satellite campus or research center in the Town of Wawarsing. This, of course, would be a considerable investment; but, if a college has enough foresight and looks at the big picture, it may not be as far-fetched as one might think. Let me explain.

The recent economic downturn has been for us a disaster reaching historic proportions. The current unemployment rate for the Town of Wawarsing is 17% and climbing � more than twice the national average. But, in spite of all the bad news, it has also opened a few doors. One of the casualties of our sagging economy is the Nevele Grande Resort & Country Club, a 432-room, year-round hotel that is currently struggling to survive. It is ideally situated on the outskirts of Ellenville, and has an array of sports conveniences including an 18-hole, championship-quality golf course; tennis and racquetball courts; indoor and outdoor pools; ice-skating and ski areas; and a host of other amenities that would be the envy of many colleges and universities. The hotel sits on prime land suitable for almost unlimited growth. Many, if not all, guest and meeting rooms can easily be expanded and/or converted for classroom and dormitory use. Degree possibilities are endless and easily could include: Social Services, engineering, agriculture, golf course design, aviation, criminal justice, environmental issues as well as many others.

Support staff necessary to fulfill any operational requirements � clerical, security, cleaners, food service, maintenance, etc. � are readily available, and at wages that are likely to be considerably lower than many other regions in the state. And, if a college would do the research, I'm sure they'll find that assessments, taxes, insurance and utilities � as well as the cost of living � are also much lower. The local business community would respond as well, embracing the needs and desires of the facility and students. And the residents of the Town of Wawarsing, I'm sure, would make any college or university feel welcome.

We're all concerned about what the future may hold. But rarely does an opportunity come along that has this much fascination. I have written over fifty letters to colleges and universities, mostly in New York State, with an open invitation to visit us at any time and see first-hand the magnificent beauty of the area and discover how their institution could benefit by investing in our community. I can offer a full plate of reasons why this move would be in any college's best interest. I know when they step out of their car and look around they will immediately see why this makes sense. I also realize we live in difficult times and most colleges feel the same economic pressure we're feeling; however, my goal is to stimulate an interest by planting a seed that could germinate, grow and develop the idea of the Town of Wawarsing becoming a college town. This could happen overnight or it might take some time; but, nonetheless, if I can make the appropriate connections, it would be a huge benefit to the Town of Wawarsing.

"These are the times that try men's soul." That line, written by Founding Father Thomas Paine in December 1776, still rings true, although for new reasons. At the time, Paine's attention was focused on the American colonies' struggle for independence. If Paine were alive today, he would no doubt be keenly aware of the turmoil in the global economy.

Are these times trying our collective soul? Or are these times giving us an opportunity to explore new ideas and new approaches? I believe an extension of a college or university in our community would open up a new market expanding the boundaries of imagination.

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