Sadly, Jerry Rouleau, the marketing consultant who (with his company J. Rouleau and Associates) has been our E.D. for the last two years, is unable to commit to a full-time relationship. When Jerry took over two years ago, it was with the understanding that it would be for an interim period. Now the BC's needs have grown, and Jerry's other activities pull at him. I'm sure I speak for all the members of the BC board in thanking him for his fine effort and hard work.

The successful candidate will have timber frame industry experience and/or connection, be a friendly person who enjoys some travel, and be interested in the many areas in which our successful trade organization is involved. These include

1. the advancement and compilation of engineering research and data
2. the marketing and public education of timber framing
3. the support and training for our member companies and the industry as a whole
4. the [networking and] inclusion of timber framing as a part of the whole building process.

As always, heart counts, and there is many a good person for whom this role would be a great fit. The start date is flexible, although we would like to move forward as quickly as possible. Please send all inquiries regarding the position of executive director of the Timber Frame Business Council to TFBC, PO Box B1161, Hanover, NH 03755. --Jonathan Orpin, President

Copies of the new University of Wyoming report on "Design Considerations for Mortise and Tenon Connections" is completed and a complimentary copy has been sent to Council members. Copies of the Wyoming study are available to nonmembers for $15.00.

Industry and Technical Report: The Timber Frame Business Council has additional industry and technical reports that are available to interested parties. The following reports are available through the Council for $15.00 each.

• "Timber Frame Tension Joinery" conducted by the University of Wyoming
• "The North American Timber Frame Housing Industry" conducted by Pennsylvania State University
• "Consumers' Attitudes Toward Timber Frame Homes" conducted by Pennsylvania State University

New Industry Survey
A Timber Frame Industry Survey is being completed by members. The blind survey will enable the Business Council to provide members with industry data and statistic on business practices, profit margins, equipment usage, sales, engineering, marketing and other key information.