Doubtless some of our readers will note a new author for this regular column and will correctly infer that a new president was elected at the January 8th annual meeting of the Club. My first task, after a mere 3 weeks on the job, is this: to write a 600-word piece for the CCP.
 
But prior to discussing the background, life story and aspirations of this writer, a word on my predecessors and our Board of Governors.
 
The Club was indeed fortunate to have had the services of Mark Banchik as its president for the past few years. There is no question he left the Club in better condition than as found. These improvements are self-evident of those of you who have either visited the Club in its Murray Hill location or virtually via our website. The building has a fresher look about it. We are delighted to have the Philatelic Foundation sharing our space with us. This has not only strengthened our financial position but has added to the centrality of this location as a focus of excellence for the philatelic world.
 
Our programming is exceptionally strong and at a consistently high level. The regular meetings of the Club are available on video and are viewed by members from across the globe. Our presence at stamp shows meetings has been invigorated. We have run programs at these shows to consistently high numbers of attendees. Our journal is amongst the strongest of its type and we are indeed fortunate to have Wayne Youngblood as our editor.
 
When we survey these accomplishments both retrospectively and prospectively, we recognize that these cannot and ought not be the work of a single individual. But rather as a team effort of the officers, Board and membership. As a volunteer-led organization, none of this could have been possible without the committed efforts of a strong and cohesive Board of Governors.
 
In moving forward, I am very fortunately in having the support of a Board largely unchanged from that which worked so productively with Mark. As one enters the Club and walks up the staircase to the 2nd floor, one passes by a photo gallery of past presidents. It is not possible but to be intimated by some the greatest names in philately. But I am comforted by the support of a Board comprised of a peerless group of philatelists.
 
My goal is very simple: to serve the membership of this Club and to help members identify areas where they can help out. We are volunteer-led and we depend on you. Wherever possible we ask your support for this great and historic organization. No matter your talents, we have no doubt you can make a major impact. We are certain that the satisfaction you’ll earn will more than recompense you for the effort. Elsewhere in this journal you will note a request for Library volunteers to assist our efforts. That could be a perfect opportunity to lend a hand.
 
Before I close this message, I would like to urge you to join us at the Cornell Club on May 20th when we hold our annual awards dinner. We will be recognizing all our award winners as well as bestowing the Lichtenstein Award on John Barwis. We will be honoring John who has honored all of us with his efforts in support of our hobby. The evening will doubtless be one of the highlights of the philatelic year. We would love to see you there.
 
Lastly, I appreciate the confidence being shown in me and I will endeavor to not only to do my best, but to listen to you and ensure we build upon the Club’s success.
 

–Lawrence Haber