Optional pre-convention activities included a trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, a tour of John and Lori Lamb’s Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey home dating back to the late 1700’s along with their beautiful collection of steins and artwork, and a visit to Michael and Inga Slutskin’s 1890’s home in Jersey City, NJ where we viewed their stein collection and glass. Later that evening many of us enjoyed dinner in New York at Cafe Un Deux Trois, followed by a performance of Elton John's and Tim Rice’s "Aida" at the Palace Theatre. On July 4th Gary Kirsner’s stein auction was held and later that evening many of us could view the various fireworks displays around New York City from our hotel rooms. Yet another option enjoyed by many was a trip into New York City for an afternoon of shopping at Bloomingdale’s and high tea at Payard’s, one of New York’s finest patisseries.

Mark Durban received the Master Steinologist honor and Glenna Scheer was presented with the Jack Heimann award for their years of service to Stein Collectors International. Once again, Claire Hill created the beautifully illustrated and hand lettered awards and was called to the stage to be recognized. Art Maethner was the recipient of the Editor’s Award for best Prosit article. Editors of the best chapter newsletter were presented with a personalized pen and portfolio.

<< Left, Glenna Scheer, Jack Heimann Service Award winner.   Above, Mark Durban, newest SCI Master Steinologist.

At our general meeting, Lyn Ayers, Nominating Committee chair, presented the following slate of officers: President - Clarence Riley (returning); Treasurer - David Bruha; Second Vice President (Membership) - Walt Vogdes (returning); Editor of Prosit - Rich Cress (returning); Photographer - John Mertz (returning). Hearing no nominations from the floor, the slate was elected.

This year’s lectures included Al Nemeth - " Bayreuth Faience", Mark Durban - "Heinrich Schlitt" and John Lamb - "Less Common Manufacturers". Roundtable discussions included David Harr - "Porcelain Inlays, Ralph Agostini - "Student Steins", Marty Cameli - "HR Steins", Louis Foster - "Munich Maids", Jim Sauer - "19th Century Cut & Engraved Glass Steins", and Bob Wilson - "Ask me about Mettlach".

Johannes Vogt made a presentation outlining the program for our convention in 2002 to be held in Bad Schussenried, Germany and Chris Kuntz presented on the plans for the 2003 convention to be held in Indianapolis, Indiana. Her proposal was accepted, as were proposals for Kansas City (2004) and Philadelphia (2005).

This year’s Miss Beer Stein is Marge Schaefer. Her husband, Buddy Schaefer, the creator of the Thirsty Knight leaded glass hanging, was crowned as King Gambrinus. Both Marge and Buddy wore their crowns, decorated once again by Claire Hill, throughout the convention.

Sharon Bruha and Cynthia Ramshaw organized activities for the children and Joann Ellis led water aerobics in the hotel pool for those energetic early risers. Many thanks to all of you!

This year’s German night held at Schuetzen Park was memorable and we enjoyed the music and delicious buffet. The "Black and White Ball" was held on our final evening and all manner of black and white dress including penguin costumes was encouraged.

Many thanks to the Thirsty Knights for working so hard on this year’s convention, it will be long remembered!