First up, on a sad note, I bring to you news of the fall of COMMAND Magazine, and the rumored demise of MOVES Magazine. Thus, one excellent games publisher, and one game-supporting periodical are no more.I find this puzzling,in that the health of the wargames market has never-in my opinion-been stronger. I should like to pinpoint the why, wherefore, and whoops- but repeated attempts to reach those concerned have been met with an eerie silence. RIP.

As mentioned, the wargame scene is alive and well: I underestimate that at least 100 new titles were brought to market by no less than twenty publishers in 2002. I see no reason why 2003 should not equal or exceed that. Apparently man can not live on wargames alone, so the number of non-war topics printed far exceeds that of published wargames. The so-called 'German' games are still peaking in popularity;and we are seeing a marked increase in card games. New ground is being broken in the card game realm, and we should see fresh,exciting twists in the future. I, for one, am grateful that the majority of card game manufacturers have gotten away from the 'collectible' game. I do not enjoy the fruitless searching for 'rare' cards I will never see!

Club activity seems to be picking up slightly, and we note a satisfying number of conventions and meets taking place regularly. Interest in boardgames, gathered from my own research in the field, is gaining strength, due, in part, to the computer and electronic gamers' feeling that meaningful brain exercise and interaction are not being met in the electronic arena. AI has still not been sufficiently developed to challenge most adult gamers in solo play, and most topics have been dumped-down' to meet with a wider-shall we say, less cerebral market.The surge in affordable, stimulating boardgames has led a movement back to the tabletop, and away from the mouse. Boardgames are also a better way to involve all family members,and engage multiple participants in one sitting. And, best of all, they do not require hundreds of dollars in hardware to enjoy!

Members of the SGS and other similar organizations can do their part to ensure the growth and stability of the hobby by A.) donating a game or two to their local public library or school or recreation centers; B.) staging family 'Game Nits; and C.)-actively recruiting neighbors,friends,and coworkers. In closing,the Chairman would like to issue a plea to SGS members that they consider joining this,or other committees. I would like 'co-conspirators' to assist me in assembling news and information relevant to the Membership. I would welcome input, ideas, and suggestions from all. Thank you.