It seems just yesterday that Fish Alaska magazine was simply an idea, one with great promise, but also with obstacles to success. Many events could have derailed the publication and it is only through the tenacity of the people who have breathed life into this endeavor that we can enjoy the fine contributions found within the pages of this magazine. Our March 2008 issue is our biggest issue to date and culminates many years of hard work. There are many people to thank.

Let's start with the magazine staff. Troy, Linda, Rick and Wayne have been absolutely integral in the success of the publication and we can't thank you enough for all the hard work and excellent results. Troy is head and shoulders above the other editors in the industry in both his ability to manage a varied editorial staff and in his writing. From his grasp of the entire ensemble of fishing possibilities to his word-crafting abilities, Troy's skills are impressive. Linda's design skills are unparalleled and have allowed Fish Alaska to establish its own look that readers enjoy. Rick's consistent, tenacious and jovial attitude is just what was necessary to bring advertisers to a new publication and he continues to drive an impressive array of clients into the fold. Wayne has contributed in many different ways from IT Manager to collections specialist to field photographer, and he continues to wear many hats and keep them all on his head. These individuals have been with the magazine since its inception, have done a terrific job, and have truly shaped the business.

More recent additions to the team include Steve, Dannie and Marsha. As a member of the sales team, Steve has shown the skills and stalwartness to bring clients to publication. His never-quit attitude is a hallmark of his success. Dannie, who began in administration, has risen to the rank of Circulation Director in short order. His grasp on the subscription programs and ability to keep many balls in the air are proving invaluable to the growth of circulation. He's the one you'll be speaking with when you call our office to take advantage of one of our subscription specials. Marsha has seamlessly filled the administration role and is doing the job wonderfully. She is not only able to move from one project to the next with little more than basic instruction, but she exceeds expectations with the results.

To all our family and friends, who have supported and nourished the concept, thank you. You have been essential in helping us stay the course. It was with your help that we have been able to maintain an unwavering vision that translated into reality.
To the many advertisers and subscribers of the publication, it has been a pleasure to enjoy this ride together. It is the continuing positive feedback from both parties that fuels our continued desire to improve the magazine.

To all the writers and photographers who grace the pages, your efforts are recognized and appreciated. Photographers like Dusan Smetana and writers like Scott Haugen keep the pages of the magazine captivating. The combination of technical expertise, interesting anecdotes and stunning visuals are only possible with a skilled staff of contributors and ours rarely disappoint.

As a business grows in size and complexity, it becomes easier to forget about all the individuals that helped to make it a success in the first place. And it is with this in mind that we offer a simple and heartfelt thanks.

-Marcus Weiner and Melissa Norris
Publishers