From cholmes@u.washington.edu Tue Oct  8 16:27:20 1996
Date: Tue, 8 Oct 1996 16:14:09 -0700 (PDT)
From: Craig Holmes <cholmes@u.washington.edu>
To: econgeog@u.washington.edu
Subject: 450 Personal Introduction

Why am I here?

	I am a senior who will graduate following winter quarter with a
degree in Economic Geography and I am taking this class as a step towards
graduation, but more specifically to learn more about spatial interactions
revolving around economic decisions.  I am interested in gaining a better
knowledge of principles and theories that relate to location theories, but
more importantly how these theories can be put to use in real world
situations.  Location is a very crucial aspect of Seattle's economy and
it is my feeling that a better understanding of Seattle's location and
economy will better my knowledge as an economic geographer, and also help
me to find possible employment opportunities in the future.
	I also took this class after taking professor Krumme's 207 almost
two years ago in which he was the first and since only instructor to
present the benefits of the Internet along with classic lectures.  In this
class I want to more learn about the benefits and drawbacks of the
Internet with regard to Economic Geography.

What can I contribute to this class?

	Since I am an Economic Geography major I have been exposed to some
facets of location theory.  I may be able to help a fellow Geography 450
student who maybe doesn't have much of a background in economics or some
basic principles in location theory.   

What I want out of this class?

	I want to gain a better understanding of locational concepts with
real world examples and, if at all possible , local examples in order to
better prepare me for jobs related to Economic Geography.  I also have and
interest in the use of the Internet and its possible influence on spatial
behaviors, specifically the possibility for small businesses to benefit
through the use of the Internet by taking advantage of possibilities for
increased footlooseness, lower transaction costs, etc.  I realize the
Internet also has some drawbacks for small businesses in which I also want
to explore. 
	 Lastly, I have a current interest in the location processes of
professional sports stadiums, specifically the locational processes 
involved in the location for the Seattle Mariners new stadium.  I want to
learn more about the location theory (having an idea
of what you want to do and then finding a appropriate piece of land) with
regards to transportation, parking, economic impacts, constraints of
information, time tables, financial constraints, locational
possibilities, societies interest, push and pull factors, etc.