The program for the GHRG's 20010-2011 season is coming: Unless otherwise noted, all meetings will be held at the Rousseau House Restaurant in Ancaster SPECIAL REQUEST: In order to help the Rousseau House Restaurant defray their cost of looking after us in this terrific location, it is important that as many Golden Horseshoe group members as possible purchase a meal during the meeting. A special GHRG menu will be available. To assist with planning, please email Mike Street as soon as possible to confirm that you will be having lunch. Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated. Directions: From the east take Hwy. 403 to the Lincoln Alexander Parkway/Rousseaux St. exit, follow Rousseaux St. to Wilson St., turn left and drive into the village. From the west take the Wilson St./Hwy. 2 exit, turn left and follow Wilson St. past the shopping centre area. Look for Tim Horton's - the Rousseau House Restaurant is across the street. VOLUNTEERS are needed to assist with group meetings and publicity. People willing and able to help with car pooling from the Toronto area are also needed. For more information or to offer your help please email Peter McCarthy, Secretary, Golden Horseshoe Regional Group. More General Information is found at the bottom of this web page. GHRG Report for the June 6, 20010 meeting: Adjusting for the RPSC convention held the previous weekend in Windsor, Ontario, The BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group gathered on June 6. Thirty people were in attendance, with twenty-two enjoying the fine cuisine of the Rousseau House restaurant in historic and quaint downtown Ancaster. Before lunch there was time to go through dealers' stocks for needed items and also to enjoy each other's company over coffee. It was a good day for philately, the weather being what it was. Then we settled in for the program, starting with announcements. Congratulations were extended to David Hobden and Derek Smith on winning a Small Gold and Large Vermeil respectively at the London 2010 international show last month in England. We don't have the palmares for the ROYAL convention so we can't give any results on how well our members did. We were very sorry to hear of the passing of John Frith, a long time BNAPS member and Military Postal History dealer. John battled cancer for a long time. Our sympathies are extended to the family. And then, auction time. Not too many lots this time round, but it always provides a laugh or two and this was no exception. Show and tell brought forth some interesting items from very early to very modern. That was a good segment of the day. The feature of course is always the program. Henk Burgers presented a very interesting topic; "The Canadian Expeditionary Forces to Siberia", based on his exhibit. If you haven't seen this presentation, make it a point next time it is shown. Thanks Henk for a great job well done. Thanks also to Ken Lemke for providing the electronics for the presentation. Thinking back, we have had good programs at every meeting. We always manage to learn something if we listen. Here is next season's all star speaker line-up: September 26, 2010 -Steve Johnson - Semi-Official Air Mail; November 28, 2010 - Nick Poppenk, Canada's Postal Code System; January 30, 2011- Derek Smith, St. John, NB Local Cancellers 1867 - 1880; March 27, 2011 - Mike Street, Peace Issue Rates; May 29, 2011 - Ken Lemke, George VI. Issues. We hope everyone has a very enjoyable summer and look forward to seeing as many as can make it to Victoria, BC for BNAPEX 2010. If not in Victoria, then we hope to see you on September 26 when we gather again. GHRG Report March 28, 2010 Spring was definitely in the air as March purred its way towards April. Forty-one members gathered at the Rousseau House Restaurant on March 28 for a great day of philatelic activity. All this despite the fact that so many other events were taking place. Several dealers were away at week-end stamp shows; those who were with us seemed to be doing quite well. There were a lot of treasures to be found in the bins and boxes. Coffee was as usual excellent, as was the conversation. Before we knew it Kathy was around taking lunch orders. The restaurant is very good at providing an interesting menu for us - the food alone is worth coming out for. Still, noon always seems to come around too quickly. Following lunch the afternoon program got underway with announcements. Mike Street reported that the exhibition frames for BNAPEX 2010 in Victoria have been filled and reminded members that the special rates at the Empress Hotel are only available until August 2. The GHRG Secretary gave a brief report of the 2009 activities; an average of thirty-two members attended each meeting last year. We are sorry to have to report the passing of Robert North and John Tucker during the month of March. Condolences were sent to the families. Our auction usually provides a few chuckles and some returns. This day was no exception as the bidding for some of the articles was brisk. Of course we consider anything over three bids per article brisk. Show and tell always brings out interesting facts and is a feature of the day. We encourage members to show what they have for we all benefit from it. The Golden Horseshoe Group also made a donation to the Saugeen Stamp Club in memory of Owen MacPherson, a young collector who was killed in the tornado last summer. The highlight of the day, though, is the speaker and this month David McLaughlin spoke to us on the "Pre-production of the Maple Leaf Issue 1897 - 1898". The design, die proofs, essays colours and printings were explored in detail, making for an interesting and informative presentation. Thanks David. Thanks and appreciation is also extended to Simon and Victoria Claughton for providing the electronics for the presentation. This report is being prepared after the April 9 - 11 CSDA in Toronto. A special thanks goes to Nick Poppenk and Ken Lemke for stepping up and making themselves available to set up and man the BNAPS table at the show. It was very much appreciated. Thanks also to the members who assisted. Because ROYAL 2010 ROYALE is being held on the week-end of May 28 - 30, the next GHRG meeting will be forwarded to June 6th. Be sure to mark your calendars accordingly. Our speaker for the day will be Hendrik (Henk) Burgers, whose topic will be "Military Postal History". To complete the 2010 - 2011 schedule a speaker is needed for the September 2010 meeting. We all want to hear about your specialties. Please contact Peter McCarthy. Next season's schedule will be posted after the June meeting. There are many stamp shows going on from now until the end of June. Please support the local clubs. Happy philatelic hunting. Golden Horseshoe Regional Group Report - January 31, 2010 It was a gray day but a great day as forty members and five guests gathered on 31 January 2010 at the Rousseau House Restaurant for the first meeting of the new year . Six dealers were present and the activity around those tables was brisk. Some members were present for the first time and some attended after a long absence. It was nice to see such a large turn-out. There were no distractions (football, Christmas, hockey etc.) and we were happy to learn of the return of our hostess Kathy after a lengthy illness. We are spoiled and well looked after. Lunch was ready before we knew it and as usual was delicious. Announcements always follow lunch. Mike Street gave an update on BNAPEX 2010 to be held in Victoria, British Columbia. Members intending to exhibit should reserve frames now. Note that room reservations at the Fairmont Empress Hotel must be done by mid July to get the special rate of $149.00 per night (plus taxes). A new release from the book department; 'A History of Cross-Border Postal Communication between Canada and the United States of America 1761 - 1875', by Dorothy Sanderson and Malcolm Montgomery is available through Ian Kimmerley. This is a must for cross-border enthusiasts. The auction was full of action with some excellent articles offered. Thanks to all for bidding but especially to those who donated material. Not only does the auction help cover expenses but it also provides a few laughs. Show and tell was very interesting. Jim Watt brought some of his philatelic gems and spoke of them with a passionate enthusiasm as only he can. We do have a wide range of collectors in our midst and when they start showing and talking about their specialties, it makes for an interesting day. Our speaker was David Hobden. The topic was to be the postal history of Halton County but David did not have it completed to his liking so it was changed to The Small Queens of Canada, a Hands-on Approach. David provided samples of Three-cent Small Queens and helped people see the differences between catalogue numbers 37 and 41. This gave us all a chance to participate and some lively discussions took place. Our next gathering will be 28 March 2010. David McLaughlin will give the presentation and his subject will be the Pre-production of the Maple Leaf Issue 1887 - 1898. Make a special note of the day on your calendar. If you have never attended a GHRG gathering you don't know what you are missing. Come on out and make your philatelic life that much more interesting. We are missing a speaker for the September 2011 gathering. If interested please contact Peter McCarthy. Otherwise the schedule is filled. Thank you. Golden Horseshoe Regional Group Report for November 2009 Thirty-nine people, including four guests, gathered at the Rousseau House Restaurant for the November 2009 GHRG meeting. It was the second largest gathering to date and certainly a great way to close out the year. Everyone seemed to enjoy the day and the lunch and we were well looked after by our hostess Kathy. The day started in fine fashion over coffee, going through dealers' stocks, conversation and greeting one another. With several dealers on hand there was lots of material to browse. Before we knew it the lunch hour was upon us. The menu, specially prepared for us, had some excellent choices. It's not difficult to tell how good the food is; the level of conversation drops. We were too busy enjoying, no time to talk. The afternoon session always starts off with announcements. We were sorry to hear of the passing of Larry Paige, OTB of Virginia, a well known collector of Flag Cancels. BNAPEX 2010 will be held in Victoria, BC at the Fairmont Empress Hotel. Check the BNAPS web site for full details. Rooms will be a very reasonable $149.00 + taxes per night. If you wish to exhibit, reserve your frames early because only 150 are available. With some nice material donated, including two postal related British prints, the auction bidding was quite brisk. These auctions usually bring a few laughs in addition to a few dollars. Thanks to all who donated material and to those who bought it. The most important part of the day is the presentation. Andrew Chung was the speaker this month and his topic was Christmas Seals of Canada. In an interesting and informative talk Andrew kept his audience's attention throughout, explaining their purpose and initial similarities of Christmas seals between Canada and the U.S.A. Thanks Andrew for a very interesting afternoon. If you missed this presentation it's a shame and it can't be duplicated here. Part of the purpose of this report is to illustrate the diversity of our group. So, those of you who attend the gatherings and enjoy your time with fellow BNAPSers, tell your friends, invite them along, experience the feeling. Do you feel the group has nothing to offer you? That is possible, but please consider that maybe, just maybe, you may have something to offer the group! We finished off the day with Show and Tell, another segment that gives the members an opportunity to show items of interest from their collections. It's amazing the little things we learn from others. Once again the GHRG manned a BNAPS promotional table at the November CSDA show at the Queen Elizabeth building of the Toronto Exhibition grounds. Several members helped out over the three day period and that was much appreciated. I won't attempt to name you for fear of forgetting someone. You know who you are so let's just say "Thanks a bunch". In addition to people looking after the table, enough BNAPSers stopped by that we could easily have had a seminar or two. This is a great society we belong to. It's just like family. Everyone seems happy to see each other. Our next gathering will be January 31, 2010 at Rousseau House. Our speaker, David Hobden, will tell us about 'The Postal History of Halton County'. We sincerely look forward to seeing as many of you as possible. May 2010 bring you Health and Happiness and many philatelic treasures. Golden Horseshoe Regional Group, Report for October 11, 2009 Because of the close proximity to BNAPEX and other reasons, it was decided to move the normal last Sunday in September GHRG meeting date to Thanksgiving week-end, taking a chance on people being tied up with family activities and not able to attend. In the event twenty-six people, including three new BNAPS members, came to the Rousseau House Restaurant to enjoy a fine day of philatelic fellowship. The morning was spent in philatelic chatter and going through the stock of the three dealers present over cups of fine coffee. This is the time when we learn a great deal from and about each other's philatelic interests and answers the question, "What's in it for me by being there?" The answer, of course, is that you have much to offer and will receive in turn. We were happy to see our favourite hostess, Cathy, once more. She certainly helps to make lunch a pleasant time. Everyone seemed to have a more contented look on their faces after lunch than before. Announcements started the afternoon session as Mike Street gave a report on BNAPEX 2009. I think it's safe to say everyone had a great time in Kingston. Conventions give one the opportunity of renewing old acquaintances and making new friends. Last year in Halifax two of our members, Derek Smith and David Hobden walked away with Reserve Grand awards. This year another member of the GHRG, Ted Nixon, received the Grand Award. Congratulations Ted. BNAPEX 2010 will be held in Victoria, British Columbia at, where else, the Fairmont Empress Hotel. High Tea in the afternoon? It will be a good show in a terrific location. At Kingston it was confirmed that BNAPEX 2011 will be held in another great place, North Bay, Ontario, which is located within the boundaries of the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group's area. GHRG members John and Betty Beddows will be our hosts. They will require lots of assistance and we hope that many of the talented members of our group will help out. Mike also reported on the Canadian Philatelic Society of Great Britain convention in England, which he attended. The donation auction was small, with about eight lots, but that was all right because most were by then anxious to get to the main event of the day; the presentation. Our speaker was Shirley Griff-Coates, whose subject was "Messengers of Death", a very interesting presentation on mourning covers. Thank you Shirley, for a most entertaining and informative time. The afternoon was capped off with a few articles of show and tell after which all went home to Thanksgiving dinner. The GHRG will be manning the BNAPS table at the CSDA show held at the Queen Elizabeth building at Toronto's Exhibition Place on November 13, 14 and 15. If members could help out by spending a couple of hours at the table, especially on the Saturday, it would be appreciated. We are trying something new this year by having as many study groups represented through their newsletters as possible. Any study group editors or contacts reading this who would like to have their group represented are asked to send their newsletters to Peter McCarthy, 573 Griffith Street, London, ON N6K 2S5 Our next gathering is November 29 in Ancaster. Guest speaker Andrew Chung will tell us about one of his favourite subjects, Christmas Seals. Come on out for a day of relaxation, fun and fellowship. We look forward to seeing you. Golden Horseshoe Regional Group, Report for May 31, 2009 Before we actually get into report on the May 31 BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group gathering, we need to go back to the week-end of April 17 - 19 when the GHRG represented BNAPS at the Canadian Stamp Dealers Association bi-yearly show at the Queen Elizabeth Building of Exhibition Place in Toronto. It was a good week-end with many stopping by to say hello or to inquire about BNAPS. A big thank you is extended to those who helped out at the table; Derek Smith, Ken Lemke, Nick Poppenk, Tony Hines, Bryan Justice and Mike Street. (If I have missed anyone, please accept my apologies.) We also thank the Canadian Stamp Dealers Association for providing the table and space. Thirty-three members and three guests gathered at the Rousseau House Restaurant on May 31 for the final session before the summer break. The four dealers on hand were kept busy all morning. There was much philatelic chatter along with good coffee. It was nice to see familiar faces that had not been around for a while, as well as a couple of new members. Lunch as usual was superb, even though Kathy, our regular hostess, was not present to take care of us. Nicely sated and fully relaxed, the regular business got under way with the auction. The bidding was brisk and close to 20 lots fell under the hammer. Thanks to those who donated the material and also to those who bid on it. It's nice to know we assist in de-cluttering some shelves and distribute it to others. Announcements included the Royal show two weeks later in St, Catharines, new BNAPS books, and of course BNAPEX 2009 SEAWAYPEX in Kingston this September. For more information please go to the website or check out TOPICS and PortraitS. The speaker for the afternoon was Ken Kershaw, whose subject was the plating of the Three Cent Small Queen. Ken is researching for another book and could do with some help. He would be happy to go through your hoards of Small Queens. It was a most interesting presentation. Thank you, Ken. We need to thank Simon and Victoria Claughton once again for providing the technological support for our presentations. Without it things just wouldn't be the same. The GHRG also took part in a small way in ROYAL 2009 ROYALE held in St. Catharines, Ontario on the weekend of June 12 - 14. We put on a seminar that was originally meant to promote both the society and the regional group. As it turned out, all but two of the ten persons present were BNAPS members, so the meeting topic was changed to a presentation by Peter McCarthy on the Landscape portion of the 1972 - 1976 Caricature and Landscape issues. The next little surprise was Shirley Griff Coates' exhibit of mourning covers. Shirley was awarded a silver medal at the ROYAL and, it just so happens, will be our September speaker. This should be an interesting start to the new season Golden Horseshoe Regional Group, Report for March 29, 2009 We have to wonder what effect the weather has on the attendance to the GHRG gatherings. In any case twenty-four members and three guests attended the March 29th get together. That's about average. Despite the absence of a few dealers, most people were able to find something that was needed. As usual, the coffee, conversation, fellowship and food were all good! Two new members came to the meeting; we hope they will return, and that several others we are anxious to meet will come out too. There seemed to be lots of interesting philatelic conversation. Our auction was down - auction catalogues weren't popular this day. While we want to make a point of thanking those who donate towards the auction - it is MUCH appreciated - we would also ask only for catalogues of auctions of prominent Canadian collections. If the catalogues don't sell and if the donor doesn't take them back, it is left to the organizers to dispose of them. I'm sure you all understand. We can use donations of stamps and/or covers. Show and Tell always brings forth interesting items. This time a 1925 airmail cover to explorers trying to reach the North Pole, and a sheet showing comparison of WWI Field Post Office machine cancellations, were included. Perhaps we can turn some of these pages into a clothesline exhibit? The speaker for the afternoon was Peter McCarthy who gave a light presentation on "The Stories Behind My Covers". The program showed that many covers warrant thorough investigation. One was a letter from Drummondville, Ontario (now part of Niagara Falls) that was written in direct response to the 1857 Desjardins Canal train disaster in Hamilton. Another turned out to be addressed to a Canadian Motor Torpedo Boat during WWII. You never know what you have in his hands. That pretty much wrapped up the afternoon. Good wishes and a speedy recovery from a broken foot go out to Larry Cherns. There are no photos accompanying this article. The camera was there but the photographer was busy giving the presentation! The next gathering of the GHRG, the last session of the season, will be on Sunday, May 31. The speaker will be Ken Kershaw, whose his topic will be 'Plating the Three Penny Beaver', the subject of his new series of books. Try and make it. You will find the day interesting. The BNAPS table at the CSDA show will be manned by the GHRG again this year. We did this for the ROYAL in 2007 and again last fall at the CSDA show. Since the GHRG was restarted, with those two opportunities, publicity in the BNAPS journals and on the web site, and Jerry Jarnick's advertising in the Grand River Valley Philatelic Association's newsletter, BNAPS has added thirty four new members in south western Ontario. One or two may have resigned since, but there are other collectors out there who are interested in BNA material. As of right now we will not have a table at the ROYAL in St. Catharines in June as we can't get commitments to look after things. While going through back issues of BNA Topics I found something I want to share with you. In April of 1990 Lewis M. Ludlow, the President of the British North America Philatelic Society at the time, suffered a cerebral hemorrhage. Bill Robinson, the first Vice-President and a very good friend of Lew, immediately assumed the duties of President. We didn't have BNA PortraitS at the time so the President's Corner appeared in TOPICS. In the May - June issue of 1990 Bill wrote a guest column, part of which I want to share verbatim. It reads, "Lew has stressed the importance of Regional Groups, Study Groups and BNA TOPICS to this Society. Today I would like to stress another underlying strength - the friendship and sociability among members. Much of this is derived from getting to know people from all over the world who have similar collecting and research interests. Some of this can be fostered by study groups and correspondence, more by regional group meetings, but the most important vehicle is our annual Exhibition and Convention. If you have never attended, you don't know how much fun and enlightenment you have missed. If you have once attended, I think you will try to do it again." (The whole article can be read on line by going to the BNAPS web site and clicking on the Horace Harrison On-line Library.) You will never know how much enjoyment you may derive until you get out and meet some of the members who share your interests. In the next few months the following philatelic events will be in our back yard: April 17 - 19 is the CSDA show in the Queen Elizabeth Building at the Exhibition grounds in Toronto. BNAPS, represented by the GHRG, will be there. On May 31 we have the GHRG meeting mentioned above. The last event of this spring - make sure to attend ROYAL 2009 ROYALE in St. Catharines from June 12 - 14. Don't forget BNAPEX 2009 SEAWAYPEX being held in Kingston from September 11 - 13, sure to be another great convention and a fantastic opportunity to meet our neighbours, the St. Lawrence Seaway Regional Group. Of course the GHRG will kick off another interesting season at the end of September - more details on this later. You can read about it, or you can be part of it all. It's a lot more fun to be part of it. The BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group January 25, 2009 Report We have more snow in this area than has been seen in many a year. It has snowed continually since October 31st, but on January 25th the snow held off and the roads were clear and dry. Thirty two of us gathered at our favourite haunt, The Rousseau House Restaurant, for a great day of philately. Five dealers were on hand with material for the members to browse through, and the coffee was good and hot. The combination made for good conversation while waiting for lunch from the establishment's fine cuisine. For dessert; we all sang Happy Birthday to Betty Beddows as she reached ………(well, we'll leave that one alone.) We then enjoyed a piece of birthday cake. With lunch over things got under way once more. Mike Street updated us on BNAPEX 2009 which is being held in Kingston. There won't be as many frames as last year so if you intend on exhibiting, get your applications in early. It is now confirmed that BNAPEX 2010 will be held at the Empress Hotel in Victoria. Tea anyone? Two books were recently released; " Plating Of The Twelve And A Half Cent Yellow Green - Scott #18" by Ken Kershaw and "Transatlantic Stampless Mails To And From New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island 1757 - 1859' an exhibit by Derek Smith." Both authors are members of the GHRG. Derek's exhibit was awarded one of the three Reserve Grand Awards at BNAPEX 2008 in Halifax. All books published by BNAPS are available through Ian Kimmerly. We had a good auction but then again we always have a good auction. It's a fun affair and serves a threefold purpose. As some people clear out their stamp corners others add to them, and a few dollars go to the GHRG coffers for incidental expenses. A win, win situation. Sincere thanks to those who generously give articles for the auction, and also to those who buy them. The feature of the day, of course, is the presentation. This month Jim Watt gave a PowerPoint slide show on "The Modern Flower Coil Definitives." Jim first spoke to us on this subject in October of 2007 when he talked about what was then known about the rarity of the perforation varieties of this series. The same occurs with the newer values. It was an excellent presentation and work is underway to make it available on-line for BNAPS members and others in the near future. Jim will also be encouraged to do an article for TOPICS. Thank you Simon for once again providing your myriad of wonderful electronics. The afternoon wrapped up with some interesting pieces for Show and Tell and everyone left seemingly quite happy. Our next gathering will be on March 29, when the speaker will be Peter McCarthy. Peter's subject will be either "The Stories Behind My Covers" or "Mail by Rail; the Early Years." We are looking for speakers. It may seem early but we are trying to fill the schedule for the 2009 - 2010 season. We try for a good balance of stamps and postal history. If you have a topic you would like to present to the group please contact us at: Peter McCarthy; or phone: 519-473-6019. Thanks for your attendance and we look forward to seeing you in the future. The BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group Report for November 2008 November 7, 8 and 9 saw the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group looking after a BNAPS table at the Canadian Stamp Dealers' Association semi annual show in the Queen Elizabeth Building on the Canadian National Exhibition Grounds in Toronto. A good number of people stopped by to say hello and pick up some literature and application forms. We were the only society present. Thanks to the CSDA for providing the complimentary table. It was a good weekend and we look forward to further such associations. Thanks to Nick Poppenk and Ken Lemke for their time spent at the table. Much appreciated. On November 30th twenty eight of us gathered to enjoy a great day of philately at our favourite haunt, the Rousseau House Restaurant in Ancaster. Some of our dealers were missing but that only made for more small group discussions. At noon the group sat and broke bread together, enjoying the great food from that establishment's kitchen served up with elegance by our regular hostess Kathy. After lunch Mike Street reminded members that BNAPEX 2009 will be held in Kingston, Ontario. Mike announced publication of the newest book in the BNAPS Exhibit Series, Gary Steele's 'Dead Letter Office Handstamps 1874 to 1954', which won the Grand Award at BNAPEX 2008 NOVAPEX in Halifax in September. (All BNAPS publications are available through Ian Kimmerly in Ottawa.) The membership signed a card for Doug Sayles who is ill. We wish you a speedy recovery Doug. Mike Street and Robert Lemire are once again interim Co-Editors of BNA Topics. Thanks to all who supplied material for another good auction and to those who bought it. It adds to the coffers for special projects and minor expenses. Leigh Hogg gave a good presentation on the three-cent Fiftieth Anniversary of Confederation stamp of 1917. It's amazing what can be done with one old brown stamp. Thanks Leigh, it was most enjoyable. Thanks also to Simon and Victoria Claughton for providing the electronic equipment. What would we do without you? Our next get together will be on January 25, 2009 and the speaker will be Jim Watt. His subject will be the current Floral coil stamps. If you missed Jim's presentation at the Royal in October of 2007, don't miss this one. It promises to be very informative and interesting - you will not believe how much variety is available in stamps you can buy at any post office! In 2007 and 2008 thirty one people living in the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group joined BNAPS. We hope to see you all at least one of our meetings in 2009. Meanwhile, may you all have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year Golden Horseshoe Regional Group September 28, 2008 Report The BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group kicked off the new 2008-2009 season in fine style on a lovely September Sunday as twenty-three members and guests sat down to lunch from the Rousseau House Restaurant's excellent kitchen. Prior to that members gathered to reminisce about summer and browse through dealers' stocks over coffee. The dealers bring an excellent assortment of material and they deserve a vote of thanks for the good service they provide. Memories of BNAPEX+2008+NOVAPEX in Halifax and the ambience of our location created a constant buzz until the afternoon session got under way. Mike Street gave a short report on BNAPEX, stating "In over 30 years of judging BNAPS and national exhibitions, except for International shows we have never seen a single exhibition contain as many high quality British North America exhibits as we found here in Halifax." Mike then presented Derek Smith, David Hobden and Peter McCarthy with the gold medals they had not received in Halifax due to the shortage created by having so many Gold level exhibits. In addition to their Gold medals Derek and David were also awarded two of the unprecedented three Reserve Grand Awards. Herb McNaught was also awarded a Gold medal posthumously. The entire palmares can be seen on the BNAPS web site. Thanks to those who donated auction lots and also to the successful bidders. You made this a worthwhile event. Larry Cherns was our afternoon speaker with the 20th Century installment of his topic, "Social History of the 19th and 20th Centuries in Canadian Covers and Postcards". Thank you, Larry, for an entertaining afternoon. A very interesting Show and Tell, with contributions from David Hobden, Henk Burgers, Mike Street and Bob Thorne, closed out the afternoon. Our next gathering is November 30th and we hope to see a good attendance. Our speaker for November is Leigh Hogg and the subject is to be announced. For the November 30 meeting the Secretary will contact by snail mail all BNAPS members in the GHRG area who are not on email. This was done almost three years ago when we were starting up, and it's time to remind people of the good times we have. BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group Report of May 25, 2008 Meeting Judith Viney, Judith Viney, audience We had precious few sunny warm days in our region during May, but Sunday the 25th just happened to be one of them. Maybe it was the gardening bug or just the need to be out in the warm sunshine that kept some people away from our last gathering before summer break. We want all those who were not there to know you were missed. Nonetheless, we had another great day at our usual haunt, the Rousseau House Restaurant in historic downtown Ancaster. Conversation over coffee while browsing through the dealers' stocks prior to lunch kept people busy and the morning was gone before we knew it. Lunch was delicious and Cathy, our favourite hostess, was in fine form and as efficient as always in seeing that we were all fed on time and with a smile. In all, twenty-four members and five guests were present. The afternoon session got underway with announcements. On a sad note we announced the passing of John Hillmer. John's philatelic specialty was the Canadian issues of 1972 - 1977, better known as the Caricature and Landscape issues. He had won high exhibit awards and co-authored at least one article on the subject. Our sympathies to the family. Two new BNAPS books have been released. For further information please visit the website of Ian Kimmerly, from whom all BNAPS books are available. The GHRG schedule for 2008-2009 was announced. September 28, 2008 will be the first gathering, with Larry Cherns speaking on "Social History of the 19th Century in Covers and Postcards of Canada, Part II". On November 30 our speaker will be Leigh Hogg, subject to be announced. In 2009, Jim Watt will bring us up to date on "Varieties on Modern Coils" on January 25, Peter McCarthy will tell "Stories Behind My Covers" on March 29, and on May 31 Ken Kershaw will be "Plating the Three Penny Beaver". The dates given are firm. Should there be a change of speaker members will be notified in advance. On this day we were very privileged to have as our special guests Bob and Judith Viney from Wales. Judith presented some of her extensive and beautifully mounted Newfoundland material in three 48-page segments. After each segment members had the opportunity to view the material close-up and ask questions. Between sessions, while Judith and Bob were exchanging pages, the auction and show and tell took place. In total 144 pages of beautiful Newfoundland material was shown and explained. We were honoured in that this was the first showing of this material outside the United Kingdom. Thank you Judith and Bob for an entertaining afternoon. The 2007-2008 Golden Horseshoe Regional Group season was great and you, the members, made it so by being there. Our sincere thanks to all who participated in any way. Have a great summer! See you in September. Golden Horseshoe Regional Group Meeting March 30, 2008 photos with captions: one, two, three, four Winter just didn't seem to want to loosen her grip but the warm atmosphere created by the forty-five members and guests who attended the March 30th gathering of the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group at the Rousseau House Restaurant in Ancaster more than made up for the gusty March winds outside. The informal gathering began at 10:00 AM with good philatelic conversation, browsing through dealer stocks and re-acquaintance over coffee. Six dealers were on hand to quench our philatelic thirst. As usual, at noon we broke to enjoy a great lunch from the restaurant's excellent cuisine. The staff of this fine establishment looks after us very well. The more formal afternoon began with announcements and a very good fun auction. Thanks to all who donated items. It was all good quality material and the dollars made go a long way to looking after expenses. Show and tell was devoted entirely to Jim Watt's presentation on the ten cent Prince Consort black and brown stamps of 1859. Many major varieties were shown. Jim Watt and David Hobden introduced a very special mystery guest, Marnie Infanti. We then played 'What's My Line'. It turns out that Marnie is the great-great-grand-niece of Sir Rowland Hill, the designer of the world's first postage stamp, who was also credited with originating the basic concepts of modern postal service. We had fun guessing that one but guess it we did. Marnie, her husband Steve and their family live in Vineland, Ontario. Our speaker for the afternoon was David Hobden, who presented the second part of his 'Early Canadian Military Mail'. This segment covered the period from 1815 to 1885, that being the year of the Riel Rebellion and the last military conflict fought on Canadian Soil. Although the presentation ran a little longer than normal, it was wonderfully put together with some great postal and military history facts explained. Hopefully this work will be published in book form some day. Thanks David for a most informative afternoon. Thanks again also to Simon and Victoria Claughton for supplying their computer and projector. It more than makes a difference to the presentations Our next gathering will be Sunday, May 25th, when we will have a special guest speaker from Wales - Judith Edwards will speaking to us on and show examples from her superb Newfoundland collection. Mark the date on your calendar and be sure and come early to take advantage of the dealers' offerings. If there is anything special you would like to have them bring, let us know and we'll pass the information on. We also accept donations for the auction. If you have any ideas on how we can improve these gatherings send us your suggestions; after all this is your group. Have a good early spring and we'll see you in May. Golden Horseshoe Regional Group Report for January 27, 2008 photos with captions: one, two, three, four New Year's greetings were offered around the room as thirty-three members of the GHRG gathered at the Rousseau House Restaurant for the first meeting of the New Year. We were very happy to welcome several first timers. Activities began at 10:00 AM with coffee, conversation, browsing through dealer's stock and trading. The gang seemed to be a little quieter than usual and we'll put that down to Kathy, our hostess, passing out the menu early. The anticipation of what was to come from this fine establishment's cuisine was enough to dull senses. Allow me to elaborate with just one example; Breakfast Quesadilla consisting of two fried eggs, sliced onion, tomato, four year old cheddar with bacon added between floured tortillas served with sour cream and garden greens. Isn't that enough to make you want to get out of your easy chairs for the next get together? After lunch, in a very relaxed atmosphere, things got underway again with BNAPS announcements by Mike Street. It was also brought to the members' attention that BNAPS sponsorship provided to the Brantford Stamp Club's youth program helped result in fourteen youngsters between the ages of six and thirteen exhibiting for the first time in that club's show in early January. Congratulations to George Speers, a BNAPS and GHRG member, and his team at the Brantford Stamp Club for the great work they have done with the children of the area. Thanks to all those who contributed items for the auction. All items sold and we always have a pretty good laugh while bringing in a few cents to help out with expanses. Dave Hobden was the speaker for the afternoon and his topic was Early Canadian Military Mail Part I 1629 - 1815. Dave started out by showing publicly for the first time a 1667 letter; the writer was closely involved in the events surrounding the first surrender of Quebec in 1629, so it went with all the other material shown. Other highlights were a 1746 letter resulting for the capture of Louisbourg in Cape Breton, one relating to the capture of a Fort on Lake Champlain during the American Revolution and several covers from the War of 1812. What a fantastic presentation! The research that went into it was exceptional. If Doug Sayles hasn't already been in touch with Dave to publish his works, I'm sure he will be. Thank you, Dave, for a most interesting afternoon. We are certainly looking forward to Part II on March 30. I would encourage all of the membership from Southern Ontario to be present. Once again a big thanks to Simon and Victoria Claughton for providing the technological assistance. The afternoon ended with show and tell. It's amazing what comes out of this phase of the program and the varied interests within the group. This is a very enthusiastic group, so much so that we now have speakers tentatively lined up for all meetings until May 2009. Please take note of the following planned program for future gatherings. March 30, 2008 - Dave Hobden with Part II of Early Canadian Military Mail; May 25, 2008 Judith Edwards - The Stamps of Newfoundland; September 28, 2008 Leigh Hogg - subject to be announced. November 30, 2008 - Larry Cherns - Social aspects of Canadian Postal History Part II; January 25, 2009 Jim Watt - The Flower Coils. The Golden Horseshoe Regional Group November 2007 Report photos with captions: one, two, three, four, five, six November 25, 2007 was a great day at the Rousseau House Restaurant in Ancaster as thirty-seven of us, including four spouses and three visitors, gathered for interesting philately. It was wonderful to see quite a number of BNAPSers who came for the first time. We certainly hope it won't be the last. Some of our regular attendees were missing and we hope it was nothing more than the Grey Cup that kept them away. It was good to be back at our old haunt once again. It was relaxing and certainly different from holding a meeting in conjunction with a major philatelic event such as the ROYAL in a huge exhibition hall. One day we will go fully into the history of our meeting place but let me tell you a little bit about it. Rousseau House is a beautiful two story stone structure built in 1836 that has been completely restored almost to its original state. It was once the residence of the Ancaster postmaster (How fitting!) and is now a very fine restaurant. The day started about ten o'clock with coffee, browsing through dealers' stocks and a good deal of philatelic conversation. In fact there were really only two quiet times - in the middle of lunch, where the food served by our very pleasant and efficient hostess Laura was far too good to waste on conversation, and during Bill Longley's presentation. The slightly more orderly afternoon session got under way with announcements followed by the auction. Thanks to all who donated items. It was probably the best auction yet. We even had a 1989 Letter Carrier's bag. If there is anyone out there who collects such memorabilia, we just might be able to pry it away from the successful bidder, for a price of course. Bill Longley's two short presentations; 'Postal History of the Postcard' and 'Charge Box Mail 1830s - 1880s', were very interesting, especially the Charge Box Mail section. Who says philately is boring? One learns something new everyday. Thanks Bill. It was much appreciated. A special thanks once again to Simon and Victoria Claughton for supplying the needed electronics that help make our presentations so enjoyable. The afternoon ended with show and tell. Amazing what people come up with. In the absence of Mike Street, who normally does the announcements of book publications, Ken Kershaw spoke to us about his new book on the plating of the Five Cent Beaver issue of 1859. Look for details in BNA Topics or BNAPortraitS. Many people lingered at the close of the meeting, seemingly not wanting it to end. For those unable to attend, you were missed. That's a fact. For those who have never attended one of our gatherings, you missed. So come on out on January 27, 2008 to enjoy the company of fellow philatelists, eat good food and be entertained as David Hobden talks to us about 'Early Canadian Military Postal History.' Leigh Hogg is our tentative speaker for March 30, and on May 25 we are hoping that Judith Edwards from Wales will be present to speak to us about part of her Newfoundland collection. Mark your calendars. Merry Christmas and may the new year bring you health and philatelic prosperity. The BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group Report of the October 2007 Meeting GHRG at the ROYAL [ photos ]: Jim Watt at the BNAPS table at the Royal Simon Claughton The bourse The bourse Mike Street presents Peter McCarthy with the Jack Levine Fellowship Award, announced at BNAPEX in Calgary Betty Lum and Mike Street with new book Jim Watt Peter McCarthy at Show and Tell Bob Thorne waving - Bob was made a Fellow of the RPSC along with Doug Lingard. The BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group held its first gathering of the season on Saturday, October 13, 2007 at the Royal Philatelic Society of Canada's annual convention in the Queen Elizabeth Building at the Exhibition Grounds in Toronto. Although the meeting was somewhat abbreviated compared to what we are used to, it was none the less very interesting. Mike Street opened things up by presenting Peter McCarthy with the Jack Levine Fellowship Award. This is the second year in a row the GHRG has been presented with this award. I guess we must be doing something right. Next on the agenda was the launching of a new BNAPS book by Stan Lum and Elsie Drury titled "Postage Due Stamps of Canada 1906 - 1928". Stan was ill and in hospital but was well represented by his charming wife, Betty, son Arthur and Susan So, who prepared the printing and scan files for the book. The late Elsie Drury was a long-time member who exhibited her Postage Dues at several BNAPEX shows and also served as the BNAPS Sales Circuit Manager from 1993-1996. Jim Watt then took the floor and spoke a little about the GHRG, the great group that it is, and the way we meet to discuss philately in an absolutely relaxed manner at a great venue. That all led into his presentation on "Varieties on Modern Booklets." A most interesting topic, stressing most convincingly that modern material is very worthwhile studying. You may be seeing this very topic published in the philatelic press in the near future. The gathering ended with a very short version of Show and Tell. Although the meeting was briefer than normal, the GHRG was very prominent at ROYAL 2007 ROYALE. We manned the BNAPS table at the show, which made for quite an interesting weekend. Thanks to all who manned the table during the three day event. Be sure to see the photos accompanying this report. The GHRG logo was unveiled in its full colour banner format. Simon Claughton was responsible for design and production of the banner. It certainly was nice to see so many BNAPSers, especially those from out of town. In order not to get into trouble for possibly forgetting someone, please check the Royal 2007 palmares for medal standings. Congratulations to all BNAPSers and especially Golden Horseshoers on their awards and for showing of some fabulous material. You may be sure you will be called upon for presentations in the future. Special congratulations to those who participated in the GHRG one page club frame display sponsored by the Greater Toronto Area Philatelic Association. You rose to the challenge, and did well. Hopefully we can participate again next year. Our next gathering will be held at the friendly and laid back confines of the Rousseau House Restaurant in downtown Ancaster on Sunday, November 25, beginning at 10:00 AM where you will once again have the opportunity of browsing through some of the dealers stocks and enjoying each other's company. The speaker will be Bill Longley. If you have any philatelic material for show and tell or to donate to the group for the auction, please bring it along. We look forward to seeing you. Bring a friend. BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group Report of the June 3, 2007 Meeting June Photo 1, June Photo 2, June Photo 3, June Photo 4 The Golden Horseshoe group gathered for the last time before the summer break; what a great ending to the season! Thirty-two members including five dealers and four guests enjoyed a great day of philately, good conversation and of course scrumptious food from the kitchen of our favourite gathering place, the Rousseau House Restaurant. Each gathering brings out new members; if everyone who has attended any of our meetings came to the same one it would be quite a large gathering. Things got rolling about ten o'clock as dealers and members got together over coffee. Some serious stock browsing took place until the lunch hour when we were well looked after by one of our favourite hostesses, Kathy. After lunch Garfield Portch invited us to ROYAL 2007 ROYALE, which will be held October 12-14 in the Queen Elizabeth Building on the Canadian National Exhibition site in Toronto. BNAPS will have a table there, operated by the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group members. In addition the GHRG will present a seminar and hold our first meeting of the fall season. Garfield also talked about one page exhibits. The GHRG plans to exhibit in this fun class and we are asking all to consider sending in a page. Interested parties please send a photocopy of your page to Peter McCarthy at 573 Griffith Street, London, Ontario, N6K 2S5 or email a scan to . The requirements for a one page exhibit are; a title with a story or intent and at least three elements, i.e.; a stamp, coil, souvenir sheet, cover, plate block etc. etc….. We need to know your intentions by July 15th at the latest so we can get our application in. This is a fun thing and a chance for the group to work as a team. Remember, it is a one page exhibit and we need fifteen individual pages to fill a frame. (See the one page exhibit page on this web site - HERE. Mike Street reminded us of the BNAPS convention taking place in Calgary on Labour Day weekend and announced the publication of four new books which you can read about in BNA Topics or on the BNAPS web site. Then came the donation auction. Our members have been very generous with items for our regular auctions and this meeting was no different. It was a robust auction with a few laughs thrown in. All the lots were good. Larry Cherns was our speaker on this day. His topic was Social History of the 19th Century in Covers and Postcards of Canada. The contents of the cards and letters were quite interesting and we thank Larry for a job well done. We have some excellent philatelists in our area and the caliber of presentations bears this out. Show and tell rounded out the day with more interesting philately. Everyone went home seemingly very happy. Have a great summer people and we look forward to seeing you all at the ROYAL in October. Remember, everyone is welcome at a GHRG gathering. On October 13 our speaker will be Jim Watt, whose topic will be 'Varieties on Modern Coils'. Rest assured it will be interesting. Golden Horseshoe Regional Group, March 2007 Meeting March Photo 1, March Photo 2, March Photo 3, March Photo 4, March Photo 5, March Photo 6 The BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Group had another fabulous day at the Rousseau House Restaurant in Ancaster (a place we have now come to consider as home) on March 25, 2007. The gathering started at 10:00 AM with members greeting one another over coffee and preparing to spend time going through dealers' stock, trading and generally enjoying good philatelic conversation. It was very encouraging to see new faces added to the gathering. Judging by the smiles, some pretty good treasures were found and deals made. The Rousseau House makes up a special brunch/lunch menu for the group. Come noon it wasn't difficult to have the dealers put their wares away. More than thirty of us enjoyed a scrumptious meal from a fine cuisine. After lunch the meeting got under way with announcements of two new BNAPS books (see the reviews on page nine of the April - June edition of BNAPortraitS) and information on this year's BNAPEX convention in Calgary. Several philatelic items were auctioned off, adding a few more dollars to the kitty. The floor was then handed over to Derek Smith who gave us a fine and interesting presentation on Transatlantic mails to Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Derek is following in the footsteps of Dr. Jack Arnell and his knowledge of the subject is quite extensive. Judging by the questions he fielded during his talk, Derek's presentation was well received. Again we must thank Simon and Victoria Claughton for making the hi-tech projection equipment available. The day came to a close with show and tell. The variety of items passed around was varied and interesting. We sure do have some great philatelists in the area. Our next gathering on June 3, the last before the summer break, will again be held at the Rousseau House Restaurant. Our speaker, Larry Cherns, will speak on the 'Social History of the 19th Century in the Covers and Postcards of Canada'. That should be quite interesting. To date we have had some really good presentations, but the list of speakers for the next year is a long way from being filled. We would like members to step forward and offer their time and knowledge. The November 2007 meeting is covered but we are looking for someone to start the new season in October when our meeting will be held at ROYAL 2007 in Toronto. Speakers are needed for January, March and June 2008. If you would like to help, please contact Peter McCarthy. Volunteers from the Golden Horseshoe Group will look after the BNAPS table at ROYAL 2007 ROYALE, which is being held at the Queen Elizabeth building of Exhibition Place in Toronto on October 12-14. In addition to the regional group meeting we plan to present a seminar of interest to all collectors of BNA. Details should be settled and in place by our June meeting, so stay tuned. Any BNAPSers coming in from out of town for this show should be sure to look for us and join in our activities. Mark your calendars for June 3 and we'll see you in Ancaster. Golden Horseshoe Regional Group January 28, 2007 meeting report The BNAPS Golden Horseshoe regional group held its first gathering of the new year on January 28 at our usual spot, the warm and friendly Rousseau Restaurant in picturesque downtown Ancaster. Thirty three members enjoyed a full day of philatelic camaraderie. We tried something new for the group - five member dealers were asked to bring a small amount of stock (because of space) for a 10:00AM meeting start. We also encouraged other members to bring items to either trade or sell. Dealing and trading went on until lunch was served. This proved to be so successful that it will no doubt be an ongoing feature of our meetings. The lunch menu was absolutely scrumptious as usual. Our hostesses, Cathy and Ashley, saw to it that we were well looked after by keeping coffee cups and water glasses filled on request and lunch served on time. After lunch we continued with announcements and a very lively auction. Fourteen articles were sold, with all proceeds going to the group's activity fund. Thanks to all the donors - it couldn't have been done without you. If members have philatelic material they wish to donate, we will gladly accept and auction it off at the next meeting. Our speaker for the afternoon was Steve Baker, whose subject was the plating of the 1865 two cent green "Newfoundland Codfish". We were taken through the complete process from design to actual printing, and then identification of nine of the ten positions of the first column, all except position 51. Steve, we thank you very much for a most interesting presentation. Everyone went away with more knowledge than before. Thanks again to Simon and Victoria Claughton for the technical support they so graciously provide. The afternoon came to a close with a show and tell. The amount and variety of subjects and material presented was quite amazing. It really was a great day and the members present need to give yourselves a round of applause for making it such. The next get together will be March 25, 2007 at the same location. Starting time will be 10:00 AM. Derek Smith will speak on his favourite subject - Transatlantic Mail. Come on out and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the dealers and the pleasure of exchanging philatelic knowledge. click to see photos from this meeting BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group - November 2006 After the Queen Elizabeth building of the C.N.E. for the October meeting it was wonderful being back at our familiar venue, the Rousseau Restaurant in downtown Ancaster. It felt like a comfortable old pair of slippers slipping themselves on to tired feet. You know that feeling. Ahhhhhh! Twenty-four of us gathered to enjoy a good meal, good conversation and a great presentation in a relaxed atmosphere. Here's a thought. If you're in the area drop in and sample the cuisine. Tell them who you are and mention BNAPS. Better still, come to the next meeting in January. The address is 375 Wilson Ave, Ancaster. About six minutes off the 403 First on the agenda was to unveil our new logo which will now be our masthead. The design is of the western portion of Ontario, from around Peterborough to the western border or the L, M, N and O postal codes. The stars represents the larger centers. Thanks Simon and a special thanks to the artist Taral Wayne who did the actual design. It really adds dimension to the group. Mike Street introduced some new book titles that can be viewed on the publications page of the BNAPS website, on Ian Kimmerly's web site, or in a coming BNA TOPICS. The BNAPS youth program is offering scholarships to deserving young collectors who have shown a high degree of competence in the hobby. If you know of such young stamp collectors, why not submit their names. The scholarship consists of a three year membership to BNAPS with all the privileges attached. It would be nice to see some youth from the Golden Horseshoe area nominated. For applications and further information please contact Bob Lane bob@wep.ab.ca. BNAPS has produced a CD with the idea of promoting the society at shows or club meetings. You will need a computer or television with CD player. It plays itself over and over so you don't need to be in attendance. If any member wishes a copy you can borrow one from yours truly Peter McCarthy or Mike Street or you can request one from Jerry Jarnick. Our guest speaker for the afternoon was Doug Irwin who gave a wonderful presentation on the 1967 - 1973 Centennials. Doug, as you know, wrote the book on the subject in 1984. Much has been added to the subject since by several people but the ground work was well done. Doug's exhibits have won many prestigious awards. Thanks for a most interesting and informative afternoon Doug. Once again we say thanks to Simon and Victoria Claughton for providing the technical support for the presentation. Bob Lane reminds us it is time to start thinking of a recipient for the Jack Levine award. The award, presented annually, is given to the most deserving member of a regional group. Last year, the winner was from the Golden Horseshoe Group - Mike Street. The afternoon culminated with a show and tell. Some pretty interesting pieces made their way around the room. Our next meeting was scheduled to take place January 28, 2007 but because of the U.S. football championships being held on that day we have decided to move the meeting up one week to January 21. Please mark your calendar. In addition we are going to gather at 10:00 AM for coffee and we are asking dealers and members to bring a couple of boxes of material each to sell and or to trade. We also expect to auction some donated material that will add a little to the coffers. We will break for lunch somewhere around 11:30 and begin the regular meeting at 1:00 PM We think that will add a little more depth to the gathering. Our speaker will be Steve Baker who will give us a presentation on the plating of the Newfoundland Codfish. We sincerely hope you will attend. May you all have a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year !! [Pictures from the November meeting: speaker Doug Irwin; Doug Sayles (Topics editor), Lew Tauber, Eric Cogswell; luncheon] [Pictures from STAMPEX: speaker Jim Watt.; the audience; speaker David McLaughlin] SPECIAL REQUEST: In order to help the Rousseau House Restaurant defray their cost of looking after us in this terrific location, it is important that as many Golden Horseshoe group members as possible purchase a meal before the meeting. Please try to come for lunch at 11:30. A special GHRG menu will be available. Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated. Directions: From the east take Hwy. 403 to Lincoln Alexander Parkway/Rousseaux St. exit, follow Rousseaux St. to Wilson St., turn left and drive into the village. From the west take Wilson St./Hwy. 2 exit, turn left and follow Wilson St. past shopping centre area. Look for Tim Horton's - the Rousseau House Restaurant is across the street. Encourage friends to attend, especially BNAPS members in your area who may not be on email. There's lots of philately in the Golden Horseshoe. VOLUNTEERS are needed to assist with group meetings and publicity. For more information or to offer your help please email Peter McCarthy, Secretary, Golden Horseshoe Regional Group at: BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group, October 2006 Report The Golden Horseshoe regional group held its first meeting after the summer break on October 14 at STAMPEX, in the Queen Elizabeth Building of the Exhibition grounds in Toronto. Because there were two shows relatively close together, some people opted for STAMPEX on Friday and went on to Guelph Saturday. However nineteen members attended the meeting, along with three out of region guests, and we had a good get-together. Mind you, we didn't have the great menu available at the Rousseau House Restaurant but……. Mike Street talked of new BNAPS publications and you can check them out in the book department section of the society website (www.bnaps.org). Congratulations were extended to Mike as the recipient of the BNAPS Jack Levine Fellowship award. As you know, the award is given to a person of a regional group who is considered to have provided inspiration for the group. Simon Claughton unveiled a draft of the group's new logo that was unanimously accepted. As soon as the finished product is available you will see it on the website and we can proudly display it. We will now have an identity. Our speaker for the afternoon was David McLaughlin whose subject was "Canadian Postal Rates and Regulations 1897 - 1906." It was an interesting and very informative talk. Thanks for the effort David. Much appreciated Show and tell gave us a sneak preview of what we can expect at the January meeting when Stephen (Steve) Baker, our newest member, introduced his subject "Plating the 1870 Newfoundland Codfish". That should be very interesting and we hope to have good attendance if the weather cooperates. GHRG Chairman Jim Watt noted that our speakers to date have really been excellent and the line-up for the future should prove to be as good. GHRG June 4 Meeting Report The Golden Horseshoe Regional Group held its scheduled June 4 meeting once again at the lovely Rousseau Restaurant in the historic downtown area of Ancaster. Prior to the meeting many gathered to partake of the establishment's fine cuisine and to enjoy some good philatelic fellowship. Mike Street got the meeting underway with a few short announcements, particularly from the book department. Highlighted was GHRG member Ken Kershaw's new spiral bound book entitled "Plating The More Distinctive Reentries In The Half Cent Maple Leaf Stamp II. Plating Criteria And Detailed Descriptions Of The Third And Fourth Printings" For more information please go to the BNAPS or Ian Kimmerly web sites. Group Chairman Jim Watt then introduced the guest speaker, Jorge Peral, Vice President - Design and Portrait Engraver for Canadian Bank Note Co. Well known for his work on the $1.00 Loon, the $1.00 Deer, the $8.00 Grizzly and Millennium stamps, he also designed and engraved the $5.00 and $10.00 bank notes. Jorge explained the process of having the Queen approve a new portrait and told us how pleased he was when Queen Elizabeth readily accepted the portrait design that appears on those bank notes. While waiting for the projection equipment to warm up, gift presentations were made. Canadian Bank Note presented the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group with an early Canadian engraving of log rolling and another of the Confederation Train. Canada Post presented us with a coin and stamp set of the horse and the deer stamps engraved by Mr. Peral. In turn Mr. and Mrs. Peral were presented with a cheese platter, a wrapped basket and a fine bottle of Chilean wine. We would also like to thank Simon and Victoria Claughton for providing and operating the computerized projection equipment necessary for Jorge's presentation. Jorge Peral was born in 1955 in Mexico City, Mexico and attended school there. He studied design and engraving under master engravers in Italy and then worked for a short time for de la Rue in Switzerland where he met and married his wife Imelda, also a designer, who was also at the meeting. Jorge spoke of his work designing and engraving bank notes in Mexico prior to coming here to Canada. After he decided to accept a position with Canadian Bank Note Company and move here, the family fell in love with the serene beauty of this country - following adjusting to the snow and cold of winter. The whole family applied for and became citizens of Canada. We learned a few things that afternoon. For instance, the presses used by the bank note companies are security presses and are not available to commercial printers. Maybe some of you knew that, but many of us didn't. Jorge also described how engraving is done. The graver is held steady in the right hand while the plate is moved with the left. Pressure is applied by the right hand to get the proper depth needed as the left guides the plate into the graver. It was interesting to watch an automatic hand motion demonstration from a master engraver. When we see the various stages of design and engraving, it's hard to imagine the intricacies of the profession. Because of a late afternoon flight we had just a brief opportunity of spending time with him and view other examples of his work and some of his tools. This writer can not in any way properly describe in this small amount of space the enjoyment of the afternoon spent in the presence of this master engraver who spoke of his family, his work and his life with a great deal of warmth and affection. I believe Glen Archer summed it up wonderfully in a congratulatory email sent to Jim Watt and Mike Street, when he said: "Mr. Peral was an engaging speaker and I thoroughly enjoyed the talk, also the peripherals he brought were fascinating and I only wish we had had more time with him. When the subject matter is so interesting and in-depth, it seems the hours pass like minutes." That seems to speak for everyone present. We believe this to be the first time a person from any bank note company has spoken to a BNAPS group. It would be quite fair to say this was a real coup and for those of you who missed it, well, what can we say. It was a loss on your part. If you're wondering how all this came about, we have none other to thank than Jim Watt, who put a great deal of effort into the project over quite a period of time. You may now stand at center stage Jim and take a well deserved bow for ending our season with an astounding bang. THANKS again! And now for a little test. Some of the above mentioned stamps bear Mr. Peral's name engraved within the design. Try finding it and report back. This being the end of our fiscal season it is time to thank those who, during this fledgling period of our existence, came forward and offered their services in one form or another, either by the work they have done, the presentations, donations or simply by being in attendance and showing support. It is all much appreciated. PHOTOS | top left: Jim Watt introduces guest Jorge Peral; top right: Mr Peral , the guest speaker bottom: Jim Watt presenting gifts to Jorge and Imelda Peral FALL MEETING: please take note that we will meet next on Saturday October 14 at 1:00 PM at STAMPEX, which will be held at the Queen Elizabeth Building of the C.N.E. in Toronto October 13 - 15. Our speaker will be David McLaughlin, whose subject will be "Canadian Postal Rates and Regulations 1897-1903". The subject is interesting and we look forward to David's presentation. Taking into consideration the venue, we are expecting a good attendance. Plan to attend. We are also hoping to have our group logo to show members at this meeting. The Golden Horseshoe Regional Group is always looking for speakers to volunteer to help out. We would like someone from each era of BNA philately. Ideally a presentation should not go beyond forty-five minutes with a fifteen minute question period. With approximately 225 BNAPS members in the region, there should really be no problem acquiring speakers. You can contact me, Peter McCarthy by email (see the link on this page) or phone 519 - 473 - 6019. Thank you On March 26, 2006 fourteen members of the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group met at the very lovely Rousseau House Restaurant in historic downtown Ancaster, Ontario. Many took advantage of the excellent luncheon menu before the afternoon got underway. Bill Coates advised that he can obtain Gene Hessler's book, 'The International engraver's Line', at cost for members. The Calgary Regional Group's book, 'Letters from the Far West', was shown. BNAPS announcements (new books, BNAPEX 2006 in Sudbury, BNAPS conventions being arranged for Calgary in 2007 and Halifax in 2008) and an auction of catalogues of auctions of major BNA collections followed. A logo is being developed for the Golden Horseshoe group. Guest speaker John Hillmer of Toronto displayed and told members about his award winning exhibit 'The Caricature Issue, 1973-1977'. Using an around-the-table method so everyone could see the exhibit pages close up, John explained the myriad inking, perforation and printing varieties known for the sheet stamps and booklets of this issue, many of which he found in post office stock, and presented many interesting covers. The Caricature issue, showing seven former Prime Ministers and the Queen, was designed by David Annesley, who died at a young age in an accident while the stamp set was still in use. During 'Show and Tell' we continued to find out how varied the British North America philately pursuits of GHRG members are. Items included: an 1887 Niagara Falls Philatelist article announcing an effort to organize the Canadian Philatelic Society; a document with a Canadian Consul's visa stamp; the earliest WWI Navy censor known, which also happened to be on a cover mailed the first day that War Tax was required; St. Catharines, Ontario cancellations; a WWII cover mailed at an Australian FPO used exclusively for two years by a Canadian Signals Unit stationed in Australia; a seemingly ordinary postcard mailed in Halifax in 1917 that turned out to be from a soldier about to board a ship for Europe, accompanied by a copy of the soldier's enlistment form located through Collections Canada's 'ArchiviaNet' website. In closing the meeting Chairman Jim Watt was pleased to announce that Jorge Peral, Vice-President, Design and Portrait Engraver for the Canadian Banknote Company, will be the guest speaker at the June 4 meeting in Ancaster. On Sunday, January 29th, 2006 the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group gathered together at the Rousseau Restaurant in downtown Ancaster. Nineteen people were present, some of which chose to partake of the restaurant's scrumptious brunch menu with some very lively philatelic discussions taking place. I think it's the aura of the old stone building with an abundance of rich aged pine that creates the relaxing atmosphere. We finally became orderly after lunch with Mike Street running the meeting in place of Dr. Jim Watt who was off on a well deserved vacation with his family. Mike talked about the book department and GHRG member Ken Kershaw's new book on the plating of the Half Cent Maple Leaf Issue published by BNAPS and available through Ian Kimmerly. The second volume will be out shortly. A mini auction of three philatelic books and six philatelic periodicals added a few dollars to the bulb fund. You'll understand this fund as you read on. For this we thank Bob Lee, Mike Street and Bob Lane from whence the material came. Our speaker for the afternoon was Greig Hutton and the subject was the Klussendorf cancellations. At the very beginning of the presentation, wouldn't you know it, the bulb in the overhead blew. Hence, the bulb fund. (see November report) We learn our lessons well. Thankfully we had a back-up and within minutes Greig was able to continue with his most interesting presentation. He is among the most knowledgeable Klussendorf collectors in Canada. Greig has a book out on the Klussendorfs that I believe is available to the public. Thanks Greig. We also want to thank David McLaughlin for his generous donation to the group of an overhead projector. That will make life that much easier. Thanks David.       Photos from this meeting: photo 1, photo 2, photo 3, Greig presenting his talk, photo 5. On November 29th, 2005, twenty-six members of the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group met at the very lovely Rousseau House Restaurant in the middle of historic downtown Ancaster, Ontario. Most took advantage of the wonderful luncheon menu and after appetites were sated the remainder of the afternoon got underway in a very relaxed and laid back atmosphere with announcements and a time of show and tell. A little re-organization took place with Dr. Jim Watt remaining as chairman. Mike Street is the Meeting Notice Co-ordinator and yours truly, Peter McCarthy, comes in as secretary. We weren't able to fill the position of program co-ordinator so the secretary will look after that for now. Show and tell was interesting and we found out there is a wide variety of British North America philately in the area. The afternoon was capped off with a great presentation of Ancaster postal history by Mike Street. This was to have taken place last spring but after a few slides the bulb in Mike's projector blew and we were left high and dry. So when it was announced Mike would try again this past meeting, several came armed with projectors just in case. Thankfully they were not needed. RIDES NEEDED: Anyone who can provide a ride from the Toronto area to Ancaster and back is asked to email the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group. VOLUNTEERS are needed to assist with group meetings and publicity. Anyone who would like to help should email the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group at the same address. Directions: From the east take Hwy. 403 to Lincoln Alexander Parkway/Rousseaux St. exit, follow Rousseaux St. to Wilson St., turn left and drive into the village. From the west take Wilson St./Hwy. 2 exit, turn left and follow Wilson St. past shopping centre area. Look for Tim Horton's - the Rousseau House Restaurant is across the street. To continue making this an interesting group we need the participation of the membership in the form of speakers. There 's such a wide range of subjects out there that there should be no trouble in having people volunteer. What we are looking for is a speaker and a back-up for each meeting. The back-up of one meeting would be the speaker for the following meeting. There is a time limit of forty to forty-five minutes including a question and answer period. If you are interested contact Peter McCarthy at (519) 473-6019 or by email at petermccarthy45@sympatico.ca. Return to Regional Page