STEPHEN BOBBITT APPOINTED TAMS JOURNAL EDITOR-PUBLISHER

The first issue in the new year of the Token and Medal Society's bimonthly publication, "TAMS Journal" will be edited by Stephen L. Bobbitt of Colorado Springs. He will hold both positions of editor and publisher formerly held by Dave Schenkman, editor, and Paul Cunningham, publisher.

In an interview this week Stephen states final details are not yet firm, but he expects the Journal will be printed in Colorado Springs. So TAMS members may expect somewhat of a different look to the publication. Further, he stated, it will take a "couple issues under my belt" before his editorial style may be evident to readers. He did receive some articles from former editor Schenkman, but like every editor laments, "there are never enough articles on hand." But, he said, "I will pick up and move forward."

The December 2009 issue of the TAMS Journal, the last to be issued under the dual leadership of Schenkman-Cunningham, carried the article "A Long 'Temporary Assignment' Comes to an End" by David Schenkman. He pointed out that in 1982 he and Paul were asked to take the responsibility of editing and published the topical numismatic publication on a temporary basis.

President at the time, Hal Dunn, had asked the pair to get the publication back on a regular issue basis since it had lapsed to a four-month delay, "until he could find a permanent replacement!" Not only did they overcome the hiatus they accomplish regular publication before long, but thereafter remained in position for 27 years! Hal had found the ideal pair to get the job done even if he had touted it as a "temporary assignment."

In addition under the Schenkman-Cunningham management the pair has issued special issues on token topics within the regular issues and published half a dozen books on specialized topics in the field. Both men can feel proud of their long-term accomplishments. They deserve every accolade TAMS officers and members may offer their way.

Stephen L. Bobbitt, 60, comes to the new assignment with impressive credentials. He has been associated with the American Numismatic Association since 1988, first as public relations director, and later as communications consultant. A long-time journalist he has held positions in the publication field as Southern Colorado correspondent for the Colorado Business Magazine, reporter for the Rocky Mountain News, city editor of the Colorado Springs Sun and reporter for the Colorado Springs Gazette.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Western State College of Colorado at Gunnison, Colorado. He received the ANA Presidential Award in 1995 and 1999, among numerous journalism awards.

He also will not have far to look for any needed editorial assistance. He is married to Barbara J. Gregory (Bobbitt), editor of The Numismatist. They have been married for seven and a half years.

We are expecting great accomplishments from the high-energy, seasoned journalist in his new editorial position. Congratulations Steve!

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