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