August 2004
ONE NEW FACE ON THE RPSC EXECUTIVE

At the 76th National Philatelic Convention of The Royal Philatelic Society of Canada held in Halifax May 28-30, members elected a new slate of officers to serve a two-year period.

After the votes were counted, one new face emerged to join incumbents in decision-making roles for Canada's national stamp organization. Peter Butler, who has been president of the Scarborough Stamp Club for the past four years got the nod of the members in the voting and replaces Leon Balian of Dollard des Ormeaux, Quebec on The RPSC board of directors.

Butler was "humbled, but thrilled to be among the movers and shakers in Canadian philately." He says "I am looking forward to the challenge of making a significant contribution to the hobby."

In January, Butler commenced the "Grassroots Philately" column for Canadian Stamp News, and he promises "to keep my focus on collectors and clubs to: improve communications, share resources, increase membership, and increase programs for beginner collectors and those adults thinking of returning to stamp collecting."

Re-elected were Kenneth H. Magee, who has responsibility for local and regional shows; Graham McCleave, Director of Conventions; George Pepall, Director for Chapter Liaison; Rick Penko, 2nd Vice-President; John M. Powell, Director for the Judging Program; William G. Robinson Director with responsibility for anti-theft, ethics, and complaints; and Charles J.G. Verge who remains in the president's chair for another term.

The RPSC elects half its board in alternating years. Incumbents elected in 2003 include J. Edward "Ted" Nixon, 1st Vice President; John Keenleyside, treasurer; Keith R. Spencer, immediate past president; Directors Frank Allusio, Francois Brisse, Raymond Ireson, R.F. Narbonne, Elizabeth Sodero, and Ann Triggle. Each director has specific responsibilities. Harry Sutherland, RDP, is Secretary and Legal Counsel to the Board.

As Charles J.G. Verge moves into his fourth term as president, he is optimistic The RPSC will continue to grow. "The Society is financially stable, and has, for the second consecutive year, a net gain in membership. Although the increase is less that three per cent, the trend is up in comparison to most of our sister organizations."

Verge is a Fellow of the RPSC and a philatelist who has excelled in exhibiting both nationally and internationally. He judges at the international level, and he is an accomplished philatelic writer.

Information on The RPSC can be had by e-mail at info@rpsc.org or by visiting the Society's website at www.rpsc.org, or by calling 416-979-8874, toll free 1-888-285-4143.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Michael O. Nowlan 506-357-2698
Andrea Quinn 416-979-8874