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President's Report - December 2008

News › President's Report - December 2008

by Greg Bayne

When John D-Z first let us know that he was standing down, my first reaction was to email the Committee for ideas as to who the successor could/should be. Whilst a number of names came into the frame immediately, one reply came back saying that I would be the ideal choice. I was flattered but dismissed the idea because I was enjoying editing Crossfire so much and didn't think or believe that I could do both jobs.

It wasn't until the Arnhem trip came along that more conversations were had. My name came up again and my reservations and protestations were put aside. Members present believed I have the qualities and enthusiasm to see us through the next few years. I hope that I have the wherewithal to not let them down.

My agenda will be driven by you. You want to have great lectures - we can do this with our internal resources but we also need to take advantage of any international speakers. Cost may be an issue but we will face those with sound planning. You want one weekend event at a convenient price and location - Lincoln in 2009 will happen. You want value for your membership and a financially sound society. I will ensure this happens.

I also think that you want to see our profile raised. We can do this in the US through our donation campaigns. And also through each of you as ambassadors of the RT We also need to do something in the UK. Either through individual efforts from people like Bob Jones who is single handedly running the Liverpool trail or collectively to champion awareness of Britain's contribution to the Civil War. People like John Bennet who is enjoying some success with London Confederates (but please let us know if you are writing a book - we might be able to help) to everyone of you who will when asked how was your weekend? Will reply not too bad thanks, I met up with my friends at the ACWRTUK. I have a special project in mind to start us off, but I need some discussions with some of you to see if it has any merit. More of this in due course.

We need to be aware that the 150th anniversaries are coming up and we need to recognise opportunities that are available to us. We need to have a 2020 vision in place well before 2010 - you know 1860 was the pivotal year.

I haven't said anything about members yet. You are the lifeblood of this society. You will need to forgive the Committee the odd faux pas. You might grumble and curse us from time to time. It might even filter back to us that you are unhappy. But we are acting with the best intentions. We want this group to grow. We want you to remain a member for many years. If you have a problem then it needs to be dealt with between yourself and the relevant Committee member or volunteer. They will feedback to me. We will mull it over, cogitate, and digest. Like hardtack it may sometimes be unpalatable, but l hope that most of the time it will be "Biscuits and Gravy". Oh and if things are going well then please tell us!

So thanks again to John and the Committee and I hope those guys (and girls) who thrust a pint in my hand and sat me down at Arnhem will not be disappointed.

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