Lulu got an email last week from a foreign country - not Nigeria - but Portugal. I am sure you have received emails offering you part of a fortune if you just give up your bank account number for a large deposit to launder some money.
Lulu has written a book entitled, "Evaluating the School Library Media Center." It deals with methods for schools to determine that their libraries are doing a good job of serving the school's needs. She has written numerous articles about the subject and travels all over doing presentations and workshops on the topic. I have gotten my nickname - The Trailing Spouse - by carrying her bags to these events.
In order to check the authenticity of the email - she researched the person and department. It all seemed legitimate so she emailed back saying she would do the workshop. She outlined her fees and they quickly replied thanking her for accepting at the last minute.
They also asked if she would deliver the keynote speech - in English of course. It must be really flattering to have an organization think so much of you that they would make this offer from having, "just read your book."
Since Lulu insisted that I come along to carry her bags - she booked two plane tickets through New York City. There is a non-stop flight form Newark to Lisbon. Since we are going to travel - we might as well visit friends and family back home in the Northland. We have never been to Portugal - nor neighboring Spain. We will have 6 days to explore the Iberian Peninsula.
They did not offer us $10,000,000 if we would just give them our bank account number and allow them to transfer hidden wealth out of their country.
Their latest reply, "We are very glad you have accepted to come to Portugal and participate in our Conference/Seminar. Yes, of course, both the keynote and the workshop could be in English. We are trying to have translation."
Right now - we are on the hook for $1600 in plane tickets. I will keep you posted as things progress. Hopefully - we will be enjoying 6 days in Portugal and I won't moaning about buying beers for 12 Euros.
1 comment:
I have been to the Azores but not to Portugal. They had a real good steak sandwich in the Azores. I think it was called a prego no pao. Try it if you find it on the mainland.
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