I just wanted to share a few thoughts with the membership. First, kudos to you for taking the initiative on getting The Herald going and on a regular schedule. I believe that the newsletter is the most visible indication that HMGS Great Lakes is still alive, and accordingly, I feel I should do what I can to support it. This, of course, includes renewing my membership; which. I would like to discuss.

I joined HMGS-GL in 1993, shortly after learning of its existence. I liked the idea of an HMGS chapter based in Ohio, as I knew that the miniature gaming community was thriving here. Great Lakes first achievement was Rally 'Round the Flag in October '93. Sorry to say I missed it, only because I was out of state on business. From what I'm told, however, it was an enjoyable con, and a good first effort for the new chapter. From what I understand, however, financially it was not so successful. Since I am only vaguely familiar with the fiscal specifics, I will leave it to the officers/BOD to share whatever information they see fit to release.

1994 was not a good year for Great Lakes, at least from what I saw. Although there were plans for a Rally '94, it never materialized. What's done is done, I won't dwell on the past here. Anyway, in the fall of '94, Brian O'Leary ran with the ball and began publishing The Herald. With the new year many changes took place within the BOD, and I believe that the new administration sincerely wants to help the hobby grow in this region, and I share their conviction that the best way to do this is by ensuring the growth of HMGS Great Lakes.

With the last newsletter, which outlined the changes in personnel, came the membership renewal form. I noticed with mild surprise that the renewal fee was $10 plus a one-time assessment of $5. I assume that the assessment is intended to recover from Rally '93. In any case, since there was no renewal fee requested in 1994, and even more importantly, because I truly hope the chapter can establish itself, I promptly wrote my renewal check. I know how much time it takes to get an organization like this off of the ground; since , like the BOD members and officers, I have a job and a life outside the hobby, and time is always at a premium. From that standpoint, since I seem to be unable to devote as much time to the organization as I would like. I thought that $15 seemed relatively cheap. I urge those members who haven't already renewed to do so soon. I know that steps are being taken to make Rally '95 a success. but much of the administrative effort and expense for such an event must be expended now; the chapter needs resources!

I must echo Darryl Smith's plea from issue #1: members need to get involved. Spread the word to gaming friends about the chapter; encourage them to join. Attend the membership meetings; this shows your support, keeps you up to date about what's going on, and gives you a chance to make your feelings and ideas known about what direction you think HMGS-GL should be heading. I attended the January 30th meeting, where I saw the BOD's enthusiasm and determination for HMGS to grow and for Rally '95 to be a success. I know that the BOD is investing a lot of time and effort, and I applaud those members who volunteered to help with Rally. Please, support the BOD, support The Herald, and support Rally!

--Scott Savory, Dayton, Ohio