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Dear docent family,

March—in like a lion, out like a lamb. Or, in like a lamb, out like a lion. Or, as we know in Chicago, in like a lion and, most years, out like a lion.  That is always what I say as I visualize the Art Institute lions smirking at me.  Perhaps, even when placed on their pedestals in 1894, Edward Kemeys was thinking the same thing.  Otherwise, why not a lamb on one side?

Well, March this year (so far) has felt like lamb-like.  It has felt more like May than March.  Tours have restarted and will be increasing as we push further into spring—or, as I said last month, better winter.  The river has melted, and the boats will be returning soon.  There is a tentative plan to start cruises in mid-April.  The vaccine rollout continues.  Sadly, I am too young to be vaccinated yet—I have not wished to be older since I was 20, until now!  But my belief is that if all continues as projected, this could be a huge summer for travel.  The pent-up desires of people to visit somewhere else will be unleashed.  We may get fewer international travelers, but I think domestic travel could be significant.  I hope that you have been or will get vaccinated and will feel comfortable hitting the streets and/or the river to give our wonderful tours.

But what of our tour requirements?  It is only mid-March, but already I have heard from a number of docents that there is concern of fulfilling the normal requirements in 2021.  In 2020 we waived all requirements for docents.  We are in the process of determining a reasonable requirement for 2021. Surveys are out to determine docent feelings and will be used to inform Docent Council ‘s recommendation. And no docent will be disqualified because of COVID.  More to come, soon.

My focus this March is to practice, practice, practice.  I will dig out the notes for my tours; I will review changes to my tours (like Must-See Chicago and Historic Treasures)….new buildings, eliminated interiors and re-routes that will necessitate subtle adjustments to my tours.  Also, I will be getting out my trusty wooden spoon (microphone prop), firing up the River Cruise video, and practicing my River Rruise!  My dog, Casper, stands in for my audience.  He is not very attentive, often sleeping through my cruise. Fortunately, my human listeners tend to pay more attention!

I am not the only one practicing and learning.  The 2020 (now 2021) class is back at it.  This is a truly special class that should forever be recognized for their commitment and perseverance to stick with us!  And the river cruise class has returned as well.  It is so refreshing to see how eager everyone is to get back to what we do.

So enjoy the seasonal weather, and since we were delivered a lamb to start the month, brace yourself for the lion that is sure to come!

Take care,

Kent