Local readers: let me remind you that a visit to JSOnline does *not* excuse you from purchasing a copy of the paper. If nothing else, think of it this way - you're not buying the same text you can get online. You're buying the same text and my picture (which is never displayed on their site).
* * * * *
I got two letters from the Journal editors today. The first was the standard "got your submission" letter. The second one surprised me and made me smile.
Dan, I like the approach you took in your column – especially given yourIt may not seem like much, but a letter like this isn't her normal M.O. Usually she just prints your stuff or rejects it, without much commentary either way, so I am unduly proud of the compliment.
personal history with smoking. It turned out nicely, and not just the usual
knee-jerk type of opposition. Thanks.
Mabel W
Perspectives
Editor
* * * *
Mild off on a tangent comment:
I've never been happy with the number of commas I use in my writing. I think I use them too often for my own good. But after looking at five published columns of mine, and comparing each to the draft that was submitted, I guess I'm wrong. The editors seem to add a comma after every other word; honestly, it's like they get paid per comma.
I know, I know. It looks different online than it does in cold hard print - it does. Really, it looks and reads much better in ink - but jeesh.
w00t! Someday I am going to be able to say I knew ANOTHER writer before he got his gig. Don't forget us little people when you are famous!
ReplyDeleteSeriously, this is awesome that you are getting stories up. I'm serious with the hope that they eventually see the light and realize you should be writing something regularly!
Another good job on the column. I think there is some merit to still having a ban, otherwise, those few obstinate and inconsiderate folks can make a spectacle of themselves.
ReplyDeleteInteresting perspective. I'm not passionate about the issue one way or the other. As a former smoker, I believe people have the right to do what they want to do, but as a former smoker (haha), it also bothers me to get major snootsful of smoke. I can handle it for a while, but it becomes irritating eventually. Good job on the column!
ReplyDeleteGreat column Dan! Congratulations on the reply you received. Your opinion makes total sense, and you communicated it very effectively. I think this column will be read and discussed my many people since it's a hot topic. This is great exposure for you!
ReplyDeleteI agree with your point of view. I smoke, but not in front of my kids, and rarely do I in public places. When I take my kids out we CHOOSE to visit smoke-free establishments. When I am going to a bar with adults I may CHOOSE a smoking allowed property.
Business owners know their customer's desires and certainly should be granted the freedom of deciding whether they will allow a legal activity to take place on THEIR property.
Hi Dan..I agree with the editor having read your latest column,,which I agree with...It was and excellent article. There has been a ban on smoking over here for last few years but and in the main it has worked well. The only complaint seems to come from the Pub's..many having to close they say as not so many people are going out at night preferring to buy in drink and smoking at home !!
ReplyDeleteLove Sybil
Excellent argument. Truly, Dan. I agree with the editor's e-mail...you really handled this piece well.
ReplyDeleteI'm proud of you.
And I'll be able to say, "I knew you when..."
BTW, I always feel I use too many commas too.
XOXO
I was late to respond, and now I'm glad, I was able to read the other comments. They all say the same thing that I would say. Nice, nice piece, just remember us little people when you make it big. You did hit the nail on the head with that column. It has to do more with rights. When I was a smoker there was one restaurant that was smoke free, I never went there because of that fact. They are no longer in business. The customers should be the ones to pick who stays in business.
ReplyDelete