We kicked off this issue with a superb 8-page article titled “Where Is The Commercial Barter Industry Headed?” Twenty-three exchange owners gave their candid opinions in an eye-opening look at the future of the barter industry.

Other stories in this issue were:

• The 13-year humanitarian efforts by Art Goehring’s Trade Corp, and how they raised hundreds-of-thousands of dollars for three charities around Columbus, Ohio.
• Dave Wallach’s sale to BarterNet.
• Don Mardak’s International Monetary System’s expansion into California.
• IRTA’s rescheduled convention held in November; although attendance was low there was an impressive contingent from Europe.
• Respected industry pioneer, Art Goehring of Trade Corp, presented a compelling case for change in a 5-page article. His vision for the industry was most noteworthy given his 27-years in the business.

In our Corporate Barter Section:

• ICON announced a strategic alliance with a real estate service provider.
• A prediction was made by Forbes that China will barter weapons for oil within a decade.
• Argent Trading completed $15 million in second-round financing.
• Paul St. Martin of the Allan Hackel Organization authored, “Navigating Through Troubled Waters,” for executives contemplating a corporate barter deal.
• Alvin Toffler talked about the “new economy.”
• Value-in-kind payments (barter) were prolific at the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics.