The Torch Magazine

THE PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

by

Norine Haas

I wish you all could have been with us at the Annual Meeting and Convention in Lincoln as we enjoyed the Nebraska folks' marvelous hospitality. The whole event was planned to a "T" and everyone enjoyed the tours, the venue, the food and, of greatest importance, five really great papers. You will be treated to these fine efforts in this and subsequent magazines. I hope everyone who came to Lincoln, plus many others Torch members, will come to Columbus, Ohio next year. The committee there is gearing up for a great experience for all.

The officers and Board members feel that we made progress on a number of fronts during the 2014-15 Torch season. A big factor in our upward swing has been the clubs who have made great strides in membership growth. When a club—Erie—can come back from a nearly dormant state to invite and accept 19 new members in a season, there is great hope for the future of our beloved organization. With the help of the Richmond, Virginia club, a new club will be chartered in Fredericksburg, Virginia in November. All clubs can catch this vision!

Future Torchlights in your e-mail inbox will outline more about growing clubs and Torch progress. To lead us to our 2024 centennial celebration goal of 100 clubs and 5,000 members, clubs need to "Think Growth" and consider sponsoring a new club this year. Invite guests, younger people, any professional you know who is interested in life-long learning; it's my bet they will come, especially if you offer to host them for dinner! Look in your vicinity for a small city, particularly with a college or university that would be perfect for a new club. Our leaders will happily assist you in reaching out—Albany and Lincoln are doing it, and your club can as well.

We are also paying closer attention to the needs of physically challenged individuals who want to attend Torch International meetings. The Board approved a policy this spring outlining our expectations that all Torch events in the future will be inclusive events. The Lincoln planners had wheelchairs ready for anyone who felt they wanted to participate in tours and other events, but couldn't go the distance. So, y'all come—we'll be prepared to assist as everyone enjoys planned events.

Meanwhile, enjoy this edition of The Torch and enjoy your 2015-16 Torch experience!

My best to all, Norine