TO THE MADISON COUNTY LIST and MADISON COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY: I am writing the Madison County List in hopes of reaching some the members of the Madison County Genealogical Society and bring a rather distressing situation to light. Illinois and Madison and St. Clair Counties were well represented at the recent Conference in St. Louis. One of the main topics of this group was the unhappy situation at the Madison County Genealogical Society. I have been a member since it began about 20 years ago. At one time we had over 400 members, many active local members and always 60-75 at the monthly meeting. There appears to have been a substantial number of "non renewals" as the 1998 Fall Quarterly lists only about 100 local members. There are in addition about 30 local life members. What seem to be the problem and what can long time members do to improve the situation? Any suggestions? I found what I appeared to me to be a problem in the library account when I did the audit for several Treasurers for different years and made suggestions but that was a few years ago. Those of us who were active workers, officers, etc. in those early growing years are very concerned, especially after some of the remarks I heard at the conference. We worked hard during those years and I, for one, hate to see our organization founder when most others are increasing in size and importance. Although I have not been active in the Madison County Society since I went into the chairs at the Illinois State Society, I would be glad to help in any way. I am sure others would step forward, if they are asked. Does the Society want help or are they happy to become a small club with a few select members? I don't know who or how many are on the Madison County List. Therefore in the interest of promoting the MCGS I am sending a copy of this letter via S-mall to the officers of the MCGS and a few other appropriate people. Please send me your opinion!! ROLAND BAUER #22 Briarcliff Collinsville, IL 62234