Who am I? I'm currently the editor of Paper Wars magazine, a review journal of wargames. (if you don't subscribe, that's okay - I forgive you - but you're missing a great magazine!) I've been in the game hobby since “discovering” Avalon Hill's Midway back in 1974. I've written reviews and articles for about all the major wargame publications and up until the time that I began editing Paper Wars, I directed the Charles S. Roberts Awards.

Starting up awards (even if the GCA existed before, they are starting up again) is difficult since a focus for them has to be found. I would like to hook that focus into the current moves by the leadership of the SGS to make the Society more meaningful and attractive to gamers. As that effort is ongoing, the evolution of the GCA will also be ongoing into awards that are meaningful and desirable for Game designers and manufacturers.

I would like to ask each of you to help with the process with two things.

First, I would like you to write or email me a list of your top five 2002 wargames and top five 2002 general strategy games in order of preference. Criteria is the games had to be published in 2002. I'll use these as a start of the 2002. I'm envisioning simply a Best 2002 Wargame and best 2002 General Strategy Game award for this year.

Second, I'd like your thoughts on other award categories that the SGS could promote. For example, I think a Best Introductory Wargame category would be helpful - a game that makes the best draw for a non-wargamer into the hobby. Or Best Innovative system for any game, something that really rings a bell. These latter awards would be occasional awards, given out when the membership feels the wards are merited. What do you think?

Please send comments and game lists to:
1558 Hastings Mill Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
Or email: paperwars@adelphia.net

I'm looking forward to hearing from all of you!