[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
AAPE celebrates 40th anniversary at Chicagopex

The American Association of Philatelic Exhibitors this year is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its founding by a small group led by the late Randy L. Neil.

A celebration is planned for Chicagopex, one of America’s largest and best shows, on the weekend of November 20-22 at the Westin Hotel in Itasca, Illinois, near O’Hare International Airport.

Social events, discussion groups and member presentations are among the activities planned to mark the anniversary. A full schedule will be announced this fall.

“Just as when the AAPE started 40 years ago, it continues to encourage its members to try new ideas and approaches when exhibiting,” said Ken Nilsestuen, association president [right]. “As exhibiting continues its evolution from ‘Here are my stamps,’ to ‘Here is a really interesting story using my wonderful philatelic collection and related items,’ AAPE should still be there sharing these developments. We hope and expect that our members will continue to be leaders in philatelic exhibiting however it changes.”

The association was founded to provide a forum for exhibitors, judges and stamp show organizers and volunteers. Most of the major changes in the exhibiting craft as well as the greatly increased accountability and consistency in judging began as ideas discussed in the AAPE’s quarterly journal, The Philatelic Exhibitor.

AAPE has also smoothed the way for hundreds of new exhibitors by connecting them with mentors, free critiques and technical guidance through articles in the journal by experienced exhibitors who write about lessons learned.

Current membership is about 625 including gold medal winners and many who are developing their exhibits toward that level. Members have access to all back issues of the journal through an excellent website that includes widely diverse resources.

Anyone with an interest in joining the friendly and helpful ranks of exhibitors is welcome to participate in AAPE events. More information and membership details are online at www.aape.org.

Chicagopex is hosted by the Chicago Philatelic Society, which was founded in 1886 and is American Philatelic Society Chapter #1. Show information is online at www.chicagopex.org.