[Dave]

Hi and thanks to all of you who have come out so positively in support of the 'New S&S.

As I mentioned, we've held off print to accomodate the news from the Huygens mission and as I write we are getting ready to go get the new issue out into the news-stands.

I want to thank in particular comments from Iceman, caa_ian, Aragon, vermin, wavelandscott, and especially silvinator.

Silvinator, you've put things so well in your post and your reply to 'Gordon' and I needn't expand on that. You understand what we've been through and like the others listed above, you have faith in us!

You all (well almost all) support an Aussie endeavour. S&S has been around for a long time and has always supported the Australian astronomical community FIRST.. that's you guys. Over the last 18 months there were problems with things but that was then, this is now. It's taken a long time to put things right and repair the damage done from past involvements.

No-one goes through life without some dramas!

There's a new and enthusiastic team assembled who are working damn hard for you. We've got new ideas, new storylines and features in mind, PLUS all the money stays in Australia! (Gordon, you might like to have a look into this before commenting on astronomy magazines in the future).

Comenting on S&S Gordon also says, quote: 'the layout has somewhat improved, the general content has suffered" - He goes on to add "I've always picked up copies from the newstand (often out of date) but I know of several friends who are now bitter ex-subscribers." He also goes on to say "I've been an S&T subscriber since the 70's" - Thanks for the support Gordon and letting everyone know this, this is exactly the type of thinking which destroys anything Australian!

Gordon, have you ever thought the 'out of date' issues might have been there because many others had been sold prior, and the owner overpurchased stock? I see lots of weet-bix on my supermarket shelves with older dates.. doesn't mean they aren't selling the newer ones!

Anyway, thanks to you all for backing the magazine and the people who are now working long hours to make it better. Over the last 9 months I can't begin to tell you how many emails and letters of support we've received and how many new subscribers have come in ... it's great to see that!

Thanks too for thinking of buying or subscribing to both mags. There's plenty of room for all and we're happy to see both flourish. It's you guys who will benefit in the long run.