The MAP Listserv: Lance Bosart's Greatest Accomplishment?

Although Lance Bosart has played a leading role in synoptic research and teaching during the past half century, perhaps his most profound influence will be expressed in the realm of social media:  the MAP listserv.   Initiated by Lance near the turn of the century, this distribution list became the central intellectual marketplace for the synoptic and weather forecasting community.   Hundreds of current and future leaders of our field have joined the list, which has included an extraordinary range of topics, ranging from global meteorology to convection, and from model characteristics to policy issues.  Reflecting Lance’s personality, the MAP listserv often takes on a humorous tone and has been characterized by tolerance of varying viewpoints.   Lance has often initiated listserv conversation, with his “bait” of the day, and his weekly summaries have become the “maproom” gathering of the nation.   This talk will survey the history of the listserv, highlighting Lance’s continued role, and will describe some of the unusual personalities and amusing anecdotes that have characterized the listserv over the years.