I have a confession to make. I used to be a stamp prig. That's because deep inside I'm a bit of a traditionalist. Growing up with the mail was royal, complete with the national coat of arms, posties wore military-style uniforms, and stamps from the government had the imprint “On Her Majesty's Service.” Stamps were... Continue reading →
I’m a big fan of collecting, but not a big fan of structure. For instance, when I look at stamp exhibits I’m more interested in the story than the details of the exhibit. I have to remind myself that judges look at more than just a good read, but have to take so much more... Continue reading →
There has been a lot of discussion in recent years over the future of philatelic clubs, societies and associations. We have seen some clubs fold, others near the brink of extinction due to a lack of volunteers, and then there are clubs that are very active. A recent survey by Canadian Stamp News certainly suggests... Continue reading →
The show will go on! I am referring to the National Postage Stamp Show, formerly run by the Canadian Stamp Dealers’ Association (CSDA). However, we are expanding it to include coins, paper money and other exonumia materials. First, I want to deliver a loud shout-out to Rick Day, president of the CSDA and its executive... Continue reading →
or years, I have maintained that stamp collecting isn't about to die out, but it is evolving. It is easy to complain that young people are no longer collecting stamps, but I don't think that young collectors have ever played much of a role in the financial health of the hobby. Young collectors usually have... Continue reading →
“If you want something done, ask a busy person to do it. The more things you do, the more you can do.” That familiar quote is from America’s beloved funny lady, Lucille Ball. It’s an adage we know is so true. We have all experienced it. The people we lean on the most are individuals... Continue reading →
I come from a large family with my siblings living across Ontario and Alberta. Each year, my “out-west” sister-in-law faithfully sends a Christmas card to my wife and I, accompanied with a photo and a one-page, one-sided letter featuring that year’s “family highlights.” Not this year, however. Instead, I received by email a really cool... Continue reading →
By the time you are reading this column, we will have released a comprehensive readership survey to more than 1,500 readers who are on our email list. I am hoping you are one of them. If not, I would urge you to email or call me (my direct line is 905-646-4820) for a copy of... Continue reading →
I love politics, and I love stamps, so the recent change of government naturally got me thinking about the future of Canada Post. The thought process isn’t really much of a leap, most Canadians still think of Canada Post as a government department rather than as a semi-autonomous Crown corporation. Prior to the days when... Continue reading →