What a GASS!

When I pen these letters, I usually focus on the future, as the present quickly turns into the past. I thought that – for this once – I would share updates on events you already know about.

Just a few days after returning from the Great American Stamp Show in Hartford, Connecticut. (Aug. 14-17), I find reflecting on some recent events essential before we shift our gaze forward.

First and foremost, I want to celebrate the remarkable accomplishment of Nick Kirke’s book on New York City Foreign Mail, which won the Large Gold and Grand awards at GASS. This achievement is particularly noteworthy, as I’ve been discussing the book’s progress over the last several years, as it has passed through its editing and printing stages. We are immensely proud of Nick and his staunch editor, Seija-Riitta Laakso. Their collaborative effort has produced a truly exceptional book. Unlike many philatelic works that are often nothing more than a catalog of covers and stamps, this book is meant to be read and enjoyed. Nick’s distinctive voice resonates on every page, making it a must-have for anyone interested in this topic.

Many of our members were honored during GASS. We’re delighted with all the grand prizes handed out to members of this Club, from Steve McGill to Roger Brody to Nick Kirke; to our members who were recognized with the Luff Award, Ken Trettin, Jay Stotts and Steve Reinhard; and, let’s not forget our own editor, Wayne Youngblood, who received the Peterson Philatelic Literature Lifetime Achievement Award; and Joan Harmer, who is a recipient of the Carter Award (for local promotion and service). It is a privilege for us to be in their company. 

 At the Great American Stamp Show, we held a joint dinner with the U.S. Philatelic Classics Society, the U.S. Stamp Society and the Collectors Club of Chicago to support the upcoming international event in Boston. A small reminder: May 2026 is not all that far away from today. Unlike the typical Friday night, where various clubs and societies host separate events, this gathering at the Mark Twain House was a unique opportunity for us all to come together. It was truly gratifying to see these groups unite and demonstrate their commitment beyond individual interests. The leaders of these organizations — Vern Morris, Nick Lombardi, Roger Brody and Melanie Rogers — showed exceptional leadership, making the event a success and selling out in the process. We also want to recognize Martha and Tony Dewey, who located the venue. We all know how much Tony wanted Hartford to shine during this show, which was undoubtedly the case at the Mark Twain House.

 As many members have asked about our new Club on 40th Street, I want to update you on our progress. While most of the work is completed, and we are about 70% moved in, the transition from our long-time 35th Street location is a complex task. The layout and design of the new space are quite different, requiring a staged approach to ensure a smooth relocation.

Our library is one of the highlights of this transition. Almost all of our books, journals and auction catalogs are now in place. The improved lighting and layout make the library more inviting and functional. We now have ample space for new acquisitions, which wasn’t possible at our previous location. I love walking around the library. It is so inviting. This being the summer, we have frequent visitors and we are very happy to show them around. 

 But the library is the most special place in my heart. I suppose a library can be a solitary place. And ours certainly can be a place to work on one’s own research or writing quietly, but ours can also be a social place. There is a reason why the reading table has 12 seats. Libraries are meant to be used, and ours is a fabulous place.

 Speaking of the library, I would like to make a special request: if you have any philatelic books or materials you are considering parting with, please consider donating them to your Club. Your contributions will help us expand and enrich our collection.

–Lawrence Haber