As some of you may have noticed, the last issue of the Citadel was something of a mess. I tried a new format that I thought might save NHMGS some money (remember, I'm also the treasurer). Unfortunately, I did not anticipate the ability of the U.S. Post Office to maul things going through their system. This led to a lot of torn-up copies, and many folks got their issue without the inserts (Enfilade! flyer and event registration form). All I can say is that I'm sorry, and I've learned a few things from the experience. If anyone didn't get the Winter 2000 issue, please let me know and I will send out another (although the supply of copies is limited).

Another problem we encountered recently had to do with the auction. Most people didn't learn about it until it was too late for them to attend. This was due to a number of factors, including some problems finding a place to hold it, and my printer taking a lot longer to finish the Citadel than they had told me - more like two weeks than the two days they told me it would take. Despite this, the auction did occur (at the Phinney Ridge Community Center), although attendance and the amount of stuff for auction was down. NHMGS ended up in the black by about $150, which wasn't too bad considering the hall cost us $350.

At this point we aren't sure about the 2001 auction - suggestions include trimming it down to one day (to hold down the cost of renting a hall), or holding it at Breakthrough in November. Suggestions from the readership regarding how and when to have it are welcome.

This issue reveals that long-standing NHMGS president Tim McNulty is laying down the royal purple to become just another rank-and-file member of the organization (albeit one who can paint rings around most of the rest of us). I think I can speak for the membership in offering our thanks to Tim for years of yeoman service, both as president and as Enfilade! convention director. He will be leaving some pretty big shoes to fill.

As will Bob Seagle, who is stepping down as Vice-President for the Puget Sound area. I'm afraid members will have to find someone else to complain to when things go wrong. Please don't choose me!

The loss of these gentlemen's services mean that there is a need for new people to help run NHMGS. Members who are willing to take up the challenge should send a brief statement to me for inclusion in the Enfilade! convention booklet. The election will, as usual, be held at Enfilade!

Readers might be interested to know about the amazingly well-organized Trumpeters group up British Columbia. Yep, these are the same genius' who put on Salute in the spring. They are now publishing a very professional-looking newsletter covering the goings-on of all sorts of miniatures gaming in that neck of the woods. For me, this is a personal disaster as it means I don't get to include 'Larry Leadhead' cartoons anymore (damn Canadian nationalism!). If you are a 'Leadhead' addict, you're going to have to subscribe to the Trumpeter's newsletter. Those of you wishing to subscribe should contact the editor, Eric Holz (604-6196925 or edchotz@direct.ca), or current Czar of all the Trumpeters, Doug Hamm (604-588-4266 or doug_ham m@Vancouver.net).

I would like to encourage NHMGS members who run gaming-related businesses to send me their business cards for inclusion in the Citadel. This service will be free to members. It only seems logical to me that this newsletter should support those members who support the hobby by providing painting services, raw materials, etc. Please remember, however, that the Citadel is a black-and-white publication, so colored cards don't always work so well. If you think this might be a problem, contact me and I will see what I can work out.