White Stone, VA, The Research and Engineering Council of the Graphic Arts Industry recently celebrated 50 years of service to the graphic arts, printing, and publishing industries. At it recent annual meeting, held in Braselton, Georgia, the Council reviewed its contributions and accomplishments over the last 50 years. Founded in 1950 by a group of industry executives concerned about making the transition from letterpress to offset, the R&E Council has consistently provided the printing industry with assessments of the critical trends which are likely to affect business. In celebration of the 50th anniversary, R&E Council managing director Ronald L. Mihills commented: "For more than 50 years, the R&E Council has been a consistent conduit of unbiased information to the printing industry. The Council is led by an executive committee consisting of more than 90 industry leaders, who ensure that the Council addresses those issues which have the greatest potential impact upon the graphic arts. The fact that the Council is member-led makes this a nimble association, which can respond quickly to the needs of the industry." Dr. Edmund T. Funk of Sun Chemical Corporation, the current R&E Council president, added: "Unlike many trade associations which develop a large staff to offer services, the R&E Council is a member-directed, volunteer organization. Given the scope and international prestige of the Council, our staff of only two individuals is testimony to what members can accomplish. The R&E Council offers those interested in the graphic arts and printing the opportunity to develop seminars and conference programs to satisfy their particular needs and address critical trends and issues. In the process, individual members expand their professional relationships and enhance their leadership skills."