4
Letter From The Editor
It is no secret that I am very fond of our business manager, Maynard Barker, of
Barker Claim Services. Five years ago, when Maynard mentioned that he needed
help with this publication, I was more than happy to jump in and help. During
this time, Maynard and I, with the help of Jennifer Blandford and Les Robson,
have managed to crank out many editions of The Claimsman. They have been
informative, enjoyable and keepsakes for a few pack rats out there who still
treasure the hard copies, and view them as a little piece of history, worth hanging
onto.
During the five years, we have tried to improve the articles and design, and
have moved to an e-publication that can be viewed on your favorite digital device.
As a result of this, we have saved many trees. We have also saved many dollars
that are now used to help fund the VSCA Scholarship Fund. We have our loyal
advertisers to thank for this.
Every year, our Scholarship committee awards money to many deserving
recipients. I always love the Fall issue that has pictures of the students, with such
bright futures and everything to look forward to.
I attended a Past Presidents’ Dinner in Richmond a few years ago. Our 1967
President, William “Bill” Gregory Jr., was in attendance. I always enjoy calling Bill
to chat and listen to his stories about meetings of long ago.
Bill realized that I was passionate about The Claimsman and decided that I was
worthy of receiving his copy of the very first VSCA publication, issued in February,
1966. I was very excited, to say the least. I will treasure it and thank Bill for sharing
it.
As of the next publication, your new editor will be Randy Layman. Randy “semi-retired”
recently, and he feels that he will have the time needed to do a great
job carrying on The Claimsman tradition. I wish Randy great success with this
venture. Like me, I know his heart will be in it for sure.
Jo Tomlin
Editor