It is hard to believe that we are more than halfway through this club year. It has been an amazing year so far and by the time this goes to print, I wouldn't be surprised if we hit the 250 member mark.  This is an historic landmark in NVPS history. For me, the best part of being your President is getting to know you and welcoming all the new and prospective members. The diversity in ages, personalities, photographic experience and styles, is astounding and exciting. 

I was very excited at our January WET critique and subsequent competition to see the prints projected on the screen. I believe that this is a real enhancement for the members who have had a difficult time seeing the prints on the lightbox. Although the color is not 100% accurate with the projection, the members at the competition overall agreed that they liked and appreciated it.  As Timber Gooding said, "Think of this as a jumbotron". You can always sit closer to the print box if you want to see the real thing. Many thanks to Jeff Namadan, Matthew Schmidt, John Naman, Gerry Abbott, Bryan Payne, Melanie Martz, Ed Ruggerio and many others for making this happen. Thank you also to the members that came to the extra meeting in December to test this out and give feedback. 

Although it is only the beginning of February, we are already starting preparations for 2010-2011. A club of 250 members needs many, many committed volunteers to keep it the most active and respected camera club in the area. We currently have approximately 40 people (between the board and other volunteers) that are giving selflessly of themselves. NVPS could not exist without them. Many have served tirelessly for many years and are in need of a break or retirement. Many are behind the scenes and therefore not in the spotlight (equipment manager, website manager, newsletter editor, tech team, coffee maker, etc.). Please take a moment at a meeting to thank some of these and other board members and volunteers. 

And now the challenge begins. We will be in need of many new volunteers next year in vital and other positions. We will be needing a good mix of old and new blood in all areas - both technical and non-technical. All you need is the desire to get involved. Please email me or talk to me at a meeting about volunteering and what you can and would like to contribute. The best way to enjoy the club is to get involved.

Stay warm and happy shooting.

Best,

Sandi Croan

President, NVPS