Ian Lilley
This edition marks my first Bulletin as editor. It is also the first edition of WAC’s new-look, twice-yearly publication, which brings WAC News under the World Archaeological Bulletin masthead. Volume numbering continues that of the old Bulletin, not WAC News. The Bulletin now also has an ISSN number for the first time, as shown on the inside of the front cover. It is not the same as the one used for WAC News. In short, WAC News is history.
It may be gone, but it is not forgotten. Claire Smith did a tremendous job of producing the News twice a year for four years. From what little I have seen already, it must have seemed a very long time, Claire! Thanks for your help in getting me this far. I guess I’m on my own now.
In her last Editor’s report, submitted to Council in Cape Town, Claire made four recommendations regarding the News which now apply to the Bulletin:
- it should normally be published in English
- WAC should pay for it
- regional representatives should be required to submit reports as part of their normal duties, and
- WAC should pay for editorial assistance.
I am happy to say that WAC has agreed to pay for publication, distribution and assistance. I will publish mainly in English, but I plan to phase-in non-English articles with English abstracts as occasion arises, and at least French and Spanish abstracts for English articles. I will need volunteers to help. Please write to me if you can assist! All regional representatives should contact me as soon as possible about their contributions.