By Jim Thompson

The 53rd FIJET World Congress in Romania is past, but the many memories and experiences that we gained will  live with all of us for many years to come. The program included a look at many of the most important and exciting parts of this wonder’ and diverse country and culture. Beginning with the history and splendor or Bucharest to the romance of the Bucovina countryside and the medieval villages in Transylvania to the mystery of Dracula’s Castle, our visit provided many story opportunities and article ideas.

If you were unable to join us for the Congress, the September newsletter provides copies of speeches and the full minutes of the Opening Ceremony, the General Assembly and the Board of Directors Meeting.

Among the important decisions made during the meeting are the following:

• Two new Associations were accepted: ANA MET (FIJET-Mexico) and  (FIJET-Netherlands)
• Under the director of Executive Committee member, Drago Bulc, plans are moving forward for the first Conference of European Journalists. Executive Committee member, Salah Attia, is making plans for a similar Conference for the Middle East.
• The 54th FIJET World Congress (2012) will be held in Egypt. Salah Attia is working on an excellent program. Final details will be available soon.
• The 2012 FIJET elections are being prepared. Associations are asked to begin selecting possible candidates for President or Executive Committee.
• Drago Bulc announced that the second Young Journalists Academy was a great success (see report in this edition of the newsletter). The dates for the next Academy are being discussed and will be announced in the next newsletter
• The final criteria for Affiliate Members was accepted by the Board of Directors and by the Executive Committee. Details are included in this newsletter.
• The next Board of Directors meeting will be held in the Czech Republic – details to be announced.

Sadly, just before the Congress, we also learned of the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Ozcan Sandikçioğlu. Ozcan served for two decades on the Executive Committee of FIJET, but more than that, he served as a friend and confident of all of the members. He was a man you could always go to for wise advise and understanding words.