Wow, the Denver Show really snuck up fast on me this time. The newsletter is accordingly a little scant and my message will be likewise and not very profound… But, there are a couple of issues that we need to address. A recurring issue has to do with participation in our education case at both Tucson and Denver. Jean DeMouthe puts in significant effort despite the fact the not many of our group participate. It requires only the packing a specimen or two extra and providing data to Jean a couple of weeks prior to the show. We need to discuss the continuation of the education case at the Denver meeting. Please give this a little thought and bring your opinion (and specimens – but tell Jean first).
     Our new Vice President, Kathrine Dunnell, inquired about the offering of honoraria to invited participants for our Tucson program. I can see the pros and cons of paying speakers. The con is, of course, that we are spending money. However, we may be able to attract knowledgeable people that can really provide us information value. I can imagine a short program with a tax lawyer or professional appraiser, for example. Once again, ponder this issue and we can discuss it at the meeting.
     While on the issue of pondering…I was reviewing some past minutes and realized that this is the 10th year that I have been president and Tony Kampf has been past president! I think the membership should think about the direction SMMP has been traveling these 10 years and ponder whether a new pathfinder would be desirable. My board term extends until 2015 and I would be honored to continue to serve the society as president. But, I also think some fresh ideas and enthusiasm would do SMMP some good.

Bien viaje  (pleasant journey),
Virgil Lueth, President