The Torch Magazine

From the President

by Norine Haas

norinehass

Greetings, members of the Torch Family!

    I am greatly looking forward to my tenure as President of the International Association of Torch Clubs for the next two years. There will be bumps in the road, but everything will work out well because the Torch people I know from around the country are bright, experienced, interesting people who are a joy to know—people who expand our knowledge base by sharing new ideas and information.

    Although my history in Torch goes back only fifteen years—not long, I know, compared to those of some of you—I have served as a local Club President, Secretary, Program Chair and as Region 3 Director, working together with my husband, Ted, as we led that region for a total of six years. When one observes clubs in action, one grasps that they all have their own distinctive traits. Some have definite rules of the road, others have more relaxed ideas as to how to operate, and every variation can be found in between. In many ways, Torch clubs are alike and different all at the same time. Torch is unique! It’s an honor to be a Torch member.

    Please read Past President Charles Carlson’s “State of Torch” message elsewhere in this issue. I will not restate what is included in that article other than to emphasize that we have sought to economize to make the most of IATC resources, making major changes in management, budgeting, and modes of operation, working now with a small surplus rather than enduring another year of debt. I told the recent gathering of Torch delegates and members in St. Catharines, Ontario that our fine Board of Directors will work to build on recent, steady progress as we move toward more efficiency in the future with carefully considered strategic and business plans. (Please note one new efficiency in the box below.)

    Because of careful budgeting led by the Finance Committee and Jim Coppinger (our new Executive Secretary and former Region 6 Director), funding for membership development and new club growth has been allocated, and it will be used. We are promoting this not only to increase our numbers, but also to advance the pursuit of knowledge, truth and just plain good fellowship. A community with a Torch Club is a better community. And if there is anything I can do to help you grow, please call me.
Folks, wear your Torch pins! Invite others to your club meetings—when new people discover Torch, they love it. Don’t hesitate, describe it as the great learning opportunity it is, and invite them to come and see. Let your Torch Light shine!

Best regards to all,

Norine

Beginning immediately, Torch papers submitted to the magazine for publication can be accepted only via e-mail from the author’s club secretary or treasurer to verify that the author is a club member and presented the paper at that club. No submission form will be necessary. Hard copies can no longer be accepted. This change will save valuable time and save a tree. Thanks for understanding!