INSTRUCTOR AVAILABILITY:  The best way to reach the instructor is by e-mail, which generally will be answered within one day. Messages to my office phone do not reach me reliably, though my home machine generally can be counted on. It is not necessary to inform me of a class absence; indeed, I would prefer that you do not. While I hope you attend all classes, I appreciate that this may sometimes impossible, in which case it does not help to inform me. I do not have regular office hours, but am happy to meet with you any time that you feel it would be helpful. I will try to be available the hour before and after class, but can also arrange other meeting times if those do not fit your schedule.