Mary: Pay Attention Darnit

At OpenCDA.com today, Mary Souza introduces an open thread by continuing to complain that Coeur d’Alene City Council members routinely take notes and don’t look at speakers during the public comments period. Now, I can’t say if that’s truly the case. Quoth Mary: “Why do they all have to write fast and furiously when the meetings are video taped, audio taped separately, with written notes taken  by  two of their staff members?  I can understand a few notes here or there, but giving attention and respect to the speaker must be top priority.” I can’t speak for the council members — or say whether Mary’s correct that there’s little eye contact — but I do know that taking notes while someone is speaking is a good one to remember what they said later. I’ve spent 41 years taking note while others speak. And I can guarantee you that I remember better than most what was said. Also, I take notes and rarely look at my pastor when he’s sermonizing on Sunday. It’s the opposite of disrespect. I want to remember what’s said.

Question: Do you take notes while listening to a speaker?