Head of School Weekly Update

Dear Odyssey Community,

Odyssey has a long-standing partnership with PechaKucha Asheville, a volunteer organization that hosts 4-5 events yearly. At each event, 8 speakers follow an internationally recognized presentation format of 20 images each shown for 20 seconds. You can find all kinds of examples by searching the internet; our local presentations are available on the Google channel PechaKucha Night Asheville. Odyssey parent David Novak presented at our December event, and we invite all of you to attend our events and to consider sharing something that fits in 6 minutes, 40 seconds.

Our 40th event last Friday, as always, included a diverse set of topics: from the drama that is Formula 1 Racing to a mission to return precious lost items found in the rivers after Helene. One presentation in particular that is relevant to all voters was by Alexandra Sirota, the Executive Director of the NC Budget and Tax Center, a non-profit and non-partisan organization. North Carolina is the only state that does not have an adopted budget, which has consequences for every one of us. Alexandra detailed a suggested framework to help policy-makers reach agreement: a Well Being budget: “Well-being means individuals and communities are thriving and have opportunities to create meaningful futures. It occurs when basic needs, like security, safety, food, housing, education and employment, are being met, as well as higher needs like dignity, purpose, social connection and life satisfaction.” The organization website has information on exactly how to get involved and share your perspective on what well-being means to you.

With Gratitude,

Anne and Peter