Encyclopedia Galactica 

Following up on the conversation about Fred Haise and his unique role in space exploration, I thought it worth pointing out that as interesting as he is, apparently neither Haise nor fellow Mississippian astronaut-turned-NASA-administrator Richard Truly (nor Space Shuttle Winona rider Don Peterson) merit inclusion in the upcoming Mississippi Encyclopedia. I have sent e-mail to the Managing Editor recommending their inclusion, and even offered to write the entries myself, but to no avail. Stennis Space Center, which played a vital role in sending men to the Moon, is also ignored. In fact, the encyclopedia apparently will not recognize scientific contributions of any Mississippians who aren't women. (Dr. James Hardy, who performed the world's first heart transplant at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 1964, is included--under contemporary issues.) To me, this just goes to further stereotypes about the state.
Anyone else who finds this an appalling oversight is welcome to join me in writing to those responsible.

:: :: 11:03 :: David :: [permalink] ::