The year 2000 is upon us, and by some peoples' reckoning so is the new millennium. Of course, we all know it doesn't start until 2001, since there was no year zero – but who's counting? I'm pleased to report that I made it to the New Year without having my body thinking it was 1900. Thus I did not turn into my own grandparents.

The reaction to the new look of the Journal has been positive. Many have commented favorably on the color cover. As it has not been prohibitively expensive, look for it to be a permanent feature. As I promised, I will be including a color insert on occasion. This issue features a color map of Europe as it looked in 1740, at the start of the War of Austrian Succession.

Between a Rock and a Hard Place

In the comments and suggestions I have received, I have noticed two somewhat divergent groups among the membership; those who are into history for history's sake and those whose interests gravitate toward wargaming. I will cite two examples. When it was first announced that I was taking over the Journal, a well respected member asked me, before I had even started on my first issue: "Since when did the Journal become some sort of scholarly magazine?" After the first issue went out, another respected member wrote: "Please do not turn the Journal into another wargaming magazine."

As you can see these two views may be a bit hard to reconcile completely. As an amateur historian, I have enjoyed history for history's sake for many years. One of my goals is to try to increase the level of scholarship of the magazine where possible. I enjoy reading detailed, esoteric stuff. Yet I am also a wargamer, and I suspect that probably ninety percent of the membership are wargamers also. Thus I see the need to try to strike a happy medium--between both ends of the gradient.

As I look through the back issues of the Journal extending clear back to the first issue, I see articles that fit into either and both categories. I will do my best to try to put as much variety into each issue in the hope that every reader will find at least one article of interest. Ultimately, however, the content of the Journal is dependent on the membership and the articles (or bribes) that they submit. This is only fitting and proper.

Bill Protz Announces Special Sale

Bill Protz informs me that he is offering all of his back issues (those listed on Page One) for a five dollar discount per volume. This discount is good for the entire year of 2000. Thus, if you order Volume IV, for instance, your cost would be only $20.00 instead of the $25.00 as listed. I encourage you to take advantage of this sale, if you are missing any volumes. There are many very good articles contained in the first five volumes.

Membership Directory

Some members have inquired about me publishing a directory of members. I think this is a good idea. Thus, I am asking the members if I have permission to print their name and address in a directory that would be made available to the membership. If you DO NOT WANT your name and address placed in the directory, please write me or e-mail me and inform me of this. If you DO WANT to be listed, you don't have to contact me. I hope to have this directory available by the Fall of 2000. Thus you have lots of time to inform me of your wishes.

Many members have requested a letters section to the Journal. I think this is a fine idea. It potentially could foster a sense of community among the members. Not everyone is able to make it to the annual convention, so reading about what some other member is doing is the next best thing to meeting him in person. Let us know what you've been up to. Also, those of you who are seeking information are encouraged to send in inquiries. The Journal could be a splendid forum for the sharing of information. If you wish to have a letter published, by all means let me know when you send it in. As long as it's printable, I'll be glad to publish it.

Once again, you are always invited to feel free to correspond, call, or e-mail me with feedback. And don't forget that your articles, letters, and other submissions are always appreciated.

So long for now.

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