SoPS-Comm Meeting 3 - May31, 2006

Attendees TD, KP, GPD, AG.

The discussion revolved around two topics:

1) SoPS Newsletter --- KP updated the group on the latest form of the Newsletter. GPD suggested that it be an automated text output from the webpage. AG suggested that KP get the weekly web update and add extra notes to it if required and post it as a more personal communication towards other postdocs.

2) Survival Guide --- We went over the different headings under which the current version imported from the old website is. It was decided to abandon the "before you arrive" section since most people will be able to make their deductions from the remaining content which would have diverse time-based information. The "Shopping Guide" section needs to be reorganized using more general themes. Sports and Recreation need to be clubbed with "things to do". It was decided to focus on "Accomodations" for the rest of the meeting since it was one of the first things new postdocs seek. The following points were decided as essential for the page:

1. Picking where to stay - include links to zip code based Safety and Census information
2. For postdocs moving from elsewhere, provide a cost-of-living calculator.
3. Remind international postdocs that most rentals are *unfurnished*.
4. Provide links to rental agencies
5. Provide information on Rent Control
6. Mention that a good way to rent is to drive around and look for signs.
7. Provide links to UCLA buses and discounted bus routes.
8. Check on upcoming ruling for mandatory renter's insurance.

The above themes will be added to the page by AG and the link sent out to the rest. The team will populate material as they find.

3) AG also mentioned an article he was writing titled "Postdoconomics" that estimates the spending power of a UCLA postdoc at the base salary level.

SMB and DV informed AG by email that they were not able to make the meeting due to unavoidable circumstances.