We are also making good progress in our joint organization of a training course on Accelerator Radiation protection which would be part of a series of summer schools held in Erice, Sicily. It is our intention that the course will be co-sponsored by the European Commission (EC) and the DOE. We have received verbal assurances that the EC has this course in their plan, and is amenable to providing financial support. Vashek Vylet is leading the effort to make this course a reality.
Although the arrangements did not go as smoothly as planned, we are still looking forward to having an Accelerator Section Delegate to the IRPA meeting in Hiroshima. The fact that we were able to establish the precedent of nominating a Delegate on behalf of the Section was an accomplishment that will benefit not only our Section, but the other HPS Sections as well.
As a former Treasurer of the Section, I was happy to hear Carter Ficklen report that our finances are in good shape, although the addition of a few new paying members couldn't hurt. We have also raised another issue to the HPS Board, and that is the matter of interest earned on our money. It is our intention to acquire this interest, and when we are successful, our actions will again benefit other HPS Sections.
I hope we can have another highly productive year. Next February begins the year of the Dragon, which should be an auspicious year. So let us hope our luck continues to be good. However, some hard work would probably also be beneficial.