Im in the Netherlands now for my work with the Water Authority of Netherlands and several other partners . I absolutely love this project.. Its challenging .. and it brings in all the elements of things I love, Internet of things. Open Data, Hacking spiriti.. I just have so much to learn though..
One of my responsibilities (and pleasures) on this trip was to serve on the PhD committee of my friend Rolf.. He defended his thesis today.. and did very well.I’ve been on quite a few PhD committees.. .. though this one was the most fun based on content and ceremony. We all had to wear robes and hats as we put Rolf through his paces.. His topic is near and dear to my heart.. its’ about using the hacker/maker spirit in pursuit of instrumentation for managing water.
It was great ‘suiting up’ as a member of the committee. the other members were great to get to know.. a really interesting array of specialties and experiences… They included my Friend Nick, a Prof here in at TU Delft in Hydrology and John who’s (coincidentally) the brother of my freind Ted, a retired IBM Fellow..It truly is a small planet.
THe examination took an hour.. and Rolf did very well. he defended his work and his Point of View beautifully 
I suck in a picture of ROlf getting his degree… hope no one notices.. 
After wards there was handshakes all around 
Rolfs family was duly proud. 
Then i gave one of hte three seminars for Rolfs family and freinds.. .. 3 45 mintue sessions to about 10 folks each on crazy science. 
I even managed to get a fair bit of work done today.. as the profs here are my partner on the deal i’m working on.. no foul in mixing busienss and pleasure.. it ook home much to think on..
We all took a van to Haaarlem to a resturaunt/ brew pub that used ot be a church… and had a great meal with Rolf and his family and friends. 
I left on the early side to get to a bunch of work meetings., practive my friday talk.. . and (hopefully) get soem sleep.. but not before I showed Rolf the secret PhD . handshake !.
Nick John and I had a good talk on the walk back to the train station and the hour long ride back to Delft. 
Now time for sleep..
BTW… i leave for 2 days and you guys let the . gov shut down again ?.. I can’t leave you guys alone for a minute !
night all, nite sam
-me
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