Dear Editor,
From: Stan Ray
San Luis Obispo
As a recent retiree and new photography geek I want you to know how inspiring the Great Shots section of your Journal is. It is my go-to part of the web every single month on the 1st. Many hours are spent going through that section, analyzing each photograph and trying to figure out exactly what it is that makes it pop - what sets it apart from a more average shot. And they range the gamut. For instance, the picture by Anita Ritenour is absolutely stunning. The Uncle Sam hot air balloon soaring through the darkened clouds was breathtaking. This wasn't a matter of just being in the right place at the right time. I always look for anything by Howard Ignatius and have bookmarked his Flickr site to study everything he does. Mike Baird is good for technical information. Steve Corey always has an interesting perspective on life. The photograph of the chick eating from its parent's throat was gag-worthy, but in a good way.
This email could go on and on, pointing out what intrigues me about each of your participants. Thank you for having this feature. Thank you to every photographer who shares their expertise each month.
From: Daryl Johnson
Los Osos
The wife and I just moved to the area and are in the process of getting to know the community. A special shout out to Mike Stiles for his articles on birding. We're new to this pasttime and truly appreciate his guidance. Thanks Mr. Stiles!
From: Joel Rogers
Cayucos
No sports? Don't the high schools at least have teams to cover? Isn't it green to fight to win for the town? I get my football fix from tv, but want to know about the locals. Get invested in the real men of the community!
[Note from the editor: Joel, are you offering to cover sports for us? Put down that remote and get in touch.] |
From: Jane Elsdon, Journal Columnist
Atascadero
As you always do, on the first day of the month you wrote us, your columnists, to report that the current issue of SLO Coast Journal was online. "You did it
again," you said, quick to lay the accomplishment at our feet. "Another great issue of our Journal is complete."
I'm writing to say, if anyone did it, it was YOU. The August issue is absolutely beautiful. You are a wizard working with color and Gene's paintings. This month's
was especially striking.
It is exciting to see the new columns you have. I find substance and information of interest in every column. Karl Kempton's piece on the Chumash, edited by Carol
Georgi is superb. I love the Elfin Forest and Sweet Springs pieces and the birder column. Steve Key on music is a fine addition and so are the medical columns.
I read most of the issue this evening and already the names escape me, but the content does not. "Feel Better" and "Go Green!" are helpful in raising our awareness of crucial issues. Shana Lourey's column is broadening. I always look forward to John Bullaro's viewpoint, because he is so knowledgeable and diverse in his coverage. George Zidbeck amuses and entertains, as well as informs. I look forward to reading "Genie's Pocket" and seeing her lovely photography. And Art for Art is arresting. I haven't seen the statue for some time. It is poignant and touching. Of course you want to replace the missing Peregrine Falcon. It's a privilege for Gene
to be able to contribute to it. He has a painting of Montana de Oro eucalyptus and nasturtiums in mind for you. It's already framed and waiting.
This is a journal of which to be proud. We are indeed fortunate to have you here and so enthusiastic about doing this labor of love. We enjoy being a small part of it.
Thank you.
[Note from the editor: Jane so nicely credits me with the success of the Journal, but it truly is because of the efforts of many talented people that this newsmagazine even exists. Thank you, Jane, from all of us. Jane's column, by the way, is One Poet's Perspective. ] |
