Publisher’s Perspective
Can I get a big, heartfelt, “Yeah! It’s spring”? For those of us in cold-weather states, it can’t come soon enough. This issue marks the start of spring, and if you’re anything like me, I know you’re ready to jump into the new season. Bring it on!
I recently entered one of our articles into the annual ASBPE (American Society of Business Publication Editors) awards contest. Each year they choose articles and designs of excellence. As I was filling out the contest entry, I came upon the section that asks you to state the “mission and readership” of your magazine. I called upon my editor, Peter Celauro, to help me out with his fabulous writing skills, and he delivered by cramming our ongoing mission into a nutshell:
“At POND Trade, our mission is to actively grow the pond and water feature industry by providing actionable information that empowers and inspires pond professionals. With practical, application-oriented content, we aim to serve the industry directly by helping readers make informed decisions in their designs and building projects.
“POND Trade is written and read by pond experts and enthusiasts. From Japanese koi farmers to rock and boulder specialists; from outdoor lighting designers to aquatic botany Ph.D.s; from bloggers to business consultants to purveyors of pumps; these are the people who will shape the pond industry today and into the future.
“When our readers pick up the newest issue of POND Trade, they know they’ll find tips, insights and inspiration straight from the industry’s best. It’s our job and our passion to make sure they never find anything less.”
I truly think that says it all…especially the “empowers and inspires pond professionals” part. That’s what I’m talking about! This magazine is FOR and ABOUT you! Keep that in mind, and don’t be afraid to reach out. We welcome all your comments and suggestions.
Well, pond experts and enthusiasts–dive in! We’ve got a lot of great content for you in this issue, starting with a fantastic feature about watershaping by Larry Carnes. He’ll teach you the ins-and-outs of creating naturalistic waterfalls and watercourses.
Not all of our pond content is instructional, however. If you’re a fan of history, check out Lloyd Lightsey’s hilarious and heartwarming account of his youth at Slocum Water Gardens—complete with black and white photos! And on page 41, our cover story provides all the color you could ever hope for as Gerard Touhey shows you how to put some “whimsy” in your pond.
Between Lloyd’s jokes and Gerard’s Irish witticisms, I don’t think we’ve ever packed so much personality into one issue! It’s just the thing to get you warmed up for another great season of water and wildlife.
Happy PONDering!
