In a telephone conversation March 20,1996 Kenneth Van Pelt has learned that he is denied the position of Heart of America HMGS Communique editor. Board President Rick Nance cited disagreement with the content of the Society's newsletter. When asked for comment Van Pelt replied, "I do not think Rick has the authority to dismiss a chapter editor. This is something for the entire board of directors to decide. Not just the President. And to my knowledge, no quorum meeting was held. I am also on the Board of Directors of HAHMGS." Spiteful Vindictiveness The firing comes just prior to chapter elections in April of 1996, in which Van Pelt and Nance are vying for positions on the newly elected board of directors. Outsiders theorize Nance's move is a lessening of power on Van Pelt's position. It is an obvious attempt to take some of the buoyant enthusiasm from Van Pelt. The action is best described as a lame duck presidents spiteful vindictiveness and frantic effort to hold on to a diminishing power base. What many see is a mistake. The firing will only strengthen Van Pelt's resolve by airing the news that the chapter president is acting alone in decisions affecting the entire membership. It remains to be seen how well Van Pelt will play the martyr. Van Pelt's S*@#! Stinks The disagreement over newsletter content stems from the fact that the Lion's Den Wargames club has decided to "go pro," by forming a publishing company for their rules sets. This is apparently seen as a threat to the established order in the Heart of America region. Chapter President Nance comments, "The Lion's Den wargamers are trying to act like the big shots of the chapter. By printing your club's news in our Communique, you're getting free advertising. Your trying to make this chapter pay for your hobby! Right now your s*@#! stinks and you are fired!" In his defense Van Pelt is reportedly to have said, "I am sorry. As editor I was only trying to fill up pages of our newsletter. I was trying to set an example for some of the other established clubs to come forward with news of their games and happenings. I sincerely apologize to anyone who read Lion's Den material--and was offended. I thought I was doing the right thing." Nance Will Sue! Yes Man Nominated Van Pelt reports that if he publishes any material with HAHMGS or Communiqu6 attached that Nance will sue for violation of copyright. "He told me not to attempt to retain my position as editor... that he had appointed Mark Duncan (BOD) to act as editor three months ago." Van Pelt was at first surprised that the firing was in effect three months ago. "In conversations with Duncan he hadn't mentioned that he was the new editor, until very recently. He said, 'Rick has asked me to use my new computer to help out with the newsletter."' Duncan continued, "I see it as a neutral position. A way to help out and remain away from the petty business of the BOD." Duncan has yet to learn what is in store for an editor in HAHMGS! (Shakin' that tree boss!) Van Pelt Not Dismayed! "I intend to continue publishing my views and creating newsletters devoted to the hobby of miniatures wargaming. I am just one of may editors that have left HAHMGS (temporarily) disgruntled. It certainly is depressing to contend with negative selfish individuals. It takes the wind out of your sails when you think things are going wen and your only thanks is verbal abuse and uncooperative people. At least I have the distinction of being fired. Usually editors have just walked away disappointed," quotes Van Pelt. A New Commitment I have real reservations about continuing in this organization despite the promise of chapter elections being held. I think it will become necessary to pick up my toys and go home. This is supposed to be a hobby. It should involve people who are fun to be around. I therefore, am prepared to create a new chapter in the Kansas City area. The working title for this new society is "Emerald City Chapter of the Historical Military Gaming Society." The premise of this organization is military history gaming. If enough people are interested in an offshoot chapter, we can elect a BOD and chapter officials as necessary. I would even consider affiliation with the parent organization of HMGS. Sincerely, Ken Van Pelt, Editor in Exile HAHMGS. Member Lion's Den Wargamers, Solo Wargamers Association Librarian. Back to Table of Contents Penny Whistle #23 Back to Penny Whistle List of Issues Back to MagWeb Master Magazine List © Copyright 1997 by Lion's Den Publications. This article appears in MagWeb (Magazine Web) on the Internet World Wide Web. Other military history articles and gaming articles are available at http://www.magweb.com