The new year has started off on a high note, there being in attendance a total of 29 members and guests at the January meeting. It was also the night of the annual elections for the new executive and we're pleased to note that a lot of "new blood" stepped forward to fill the positions. As your new executive for 2009 we have: President: Felix Stawski; Vice-President: Joan Ryan; Treasurer: Bob Bresden; Secretary & Editor: Wayne Jacobs; Directors: Bruce Bell, Art Doswell and Bill Lane ; Webmaster (and de facto Auction Coordinator) Rob Tallone.

A new executive, with its different mix of personnel, inevitably sets a somewhat new tone and direction - that is also different - for the club as a whole. Of course, the whole thrust is for better , not just different , but we stand a good chance of better being the case. This is a strong lineup and the fact that so many were willing to step forward with their time, talents and labour shows that we have a strong club.

2009 could be a watershed year. All around us the world seems to be in a state of gloom, retreat and entrenchment - and, unfortunately, it can be a self-fulfilling prophecy when enough believe it. We would be remiss in not expressing our thanks to the past executive, Phil and his crew, that in trying times we held our ground; that in itself is an accomplishment. Now we have: opportunity. Let's exploit it.

The executive has also been gratified to note the long list of prompt membership renewals for 2009. As noted in December, if yours has not as yet been received at mailing time of the February issue, an asterisk will appear by your name, indicating that it will be the last issue sent. If so, we're sure that it's just an oversight; we can't believe that you would deprive yourself of your quality of life to this extent.

The next section, of course, is that of our auction. No matter its listed size this time, we must bring to your attention the necessity of submitting the lots in time. A "skinny" auction listing in the Journal is frequently followed by the actual one on meeting night that may run to 50 and 60 lots. But such unlisted lots may not generate the interest they should. Bidders like to peruse the lists for such lots that are of special interest to them - and it could be that a certain lot of special interest may spark the attendance of that bidder. Or not - if there is "nothing of interest" in the short list.

As things stand, lots listed in the Journal should be in Rob's hands no later than two weeks plus a day previous to the scheduled meeting. This lead-time is necessary to see them properly listed, included in the normal front section of the Journal (where it holds up all else), the Journal's assembly, printing and mailing to arrive well before the meeting. Submit lots to Rob (or his designate) at one meeting for inclusion in the next or drop them off at Jeff's store a day or so before Rob's closing date. It would be helpful if you mark the lots with your "Reserve bid" (if any) - otherwise they will go on the basis of plain "Market Value" (where they may go for a fraction) or, when "Market" is unknown, as "Open" (for whatever). On the one hand, protect yourself; on the other, be realistic as to what you can expect such lots to bring. Then we'll all have fun.

Wayne Jacobs is numismatic expert. He is the award winning author of numerous articles. He is the secretary and editor of the "Mid-Island Coin Club Numismatic Journal"of Nanaimo, Vancouver Island , British Columbia. The MICC journal are hosted here: MICC webpages Copyright 2006 Wayne Jacobs. This article may be reprinted freely for non commercial purpose only if the resource box is left intact, linking back to us.