Publishers Note 09/97

This Month’s Publisher’s Note...
In the blink of an eye...

"Did you see that?" My wife asked, as we watched the Labor Day Fireworks over City Island. "See what?" I replied. "That motorcycle that just went by, with all the cool lights on the back, it was really wild." No, I thought to myself, I missed it. I literally blinked at that moment, and it was gone. For some strange reason it was a great disappointment missing that motorcycle, and I’m still dwelling on it. I don’t like to miss anything cool. Especially if my wife thinks its cool.

This issue of MODE marks the close of a three part series on starting your own business.

I first want to commend the writers, Michelene Malosh and Andrea Ciccocioppo, who put this series together. I have receive numerous e-mails and a few phone calls telling us what a great resource this series was. It was really a feel-good series, with lots of usable information, and well worth clipping and saving. Thank you Michelene and Andrea for doing a first-rate job. For all of you readers that missed the first parts of this series, they are available for reading on our 24-hour, one-stop wonder of a website at MODEweekly.com, (formerly MODEmagazine.com)".

I second want to encourage anyone who is considering starting their own business to do so. Just make sure you’re prepared before you jump into it. Someone just recently asked me why I started MODE. Originally, it was because I was young and naive, and didn’t know I could fail. The second try was because I was older, more experienced, and knew I could not fail. I once heard a man say: "If you have the capability to work for yourself, and you don’t, you’re a fool." What a slap in the face, but admittedly, most self-employed wouldn’t trade it for the best 9-5 job in the world. It’s a big leap, but if you do you’re homework, and know what you’re doing, it’s the most rewarding life you can live.

Moving on, I want to take a minute to let everyone who responded so enthusiastically to our "Writers Wanted" ad that we are trying to get back to each and every one of you. The response was (for lack of a better word) overwhelming. It amazed me. It plainly amazed me how many of you read the words "the pay is lousy" and still called anyway. I just can’t wait until MODE is 100 pages thick every month, so each and every one of you can have a home within our fold. So, to sum up, we’re working on it, and keep in touch. Remember, the best way to reach me and actually get a reply is by visiting: MODEweekly.com/Contact.

I do have to tell you that I could not have had more fun on a Saturday afternoon, than I did being one of the judges for the Chili Cookoff on City Island during this past Kipona. WOW! Tasting over 25 different chillies, (there were 50 entrants), and having to pick the top three was not an easy task. Especially after #28, which won my award for "Belly Burner" and practically ruined my taste buds for about half-an-hour. But the spoils were quite rich, and a great time was had by all. Hats off the Chief Chili for another terrific party! (See his smiling mug in MODE@LARGE).

Just to sport a gratuitous plug... If there’s anyone out there that is interested in buying a Kodak Digital Camera, MODE is selling one of ours. We’re movin’ on up, and we’ve outgrown this particular model. Please call me if you are interested. A simple training in using the camera, and how to download and manipulate the pictures will be included in the price. The camera works on both the MAC and PC platform.

Finally, I am personally inviting each and every one of you to join me for dinner... a Renaissance Dinner to be exact. MODE and Appalachian Brewing Company are have a little feast. I will be King for the evening, King Anthony the Impaler, (no laughing). There will be an abundance of ale and lager to swill about in accompaniment to the four-course fresh mutton dinner on every plate. ABC’s great dining hall will be lit only by candles, and your servers will be in traditional medieval garb. Mark your calendar for Sunday, September 21st, and come eat with your hands, just like you always wanted to! (Call ABC for reservations.)

Thanks always for your continuing support... over and out.