A Letter to the Readers and the Start of a New Year

by Frederic Richter

Saturday September 13, 2008

This fall, we all embark on the start of a new year, new classes, new experiences and new challenges. I have no doubt that my role, as Editor-In-Chief will prove to be one; though I have never been one to shirk a hurdle. Under my predecessor, Joe Lazauskas, the Phoenix improved immeasurably in the quality of content and articles. It is my ardent wish that I will be able to maintain, and hopefully be fortunate enough to even expand, these improved standards. You will find many features and columns will remain, while others seen last year may not return. There will also be a great deal of changes the Phoenix this year as well; it will feature many innovative articles, investigative pieces, blogs, interactive message boards and columns, as well as your same favorite features. Nearly the entire editorial staff is new, which makes this year even more exciting opportunity for learning and improvement as a campus news team. News is important in our world, be it the coverage of serious and solemn world events, or the quirky, quotidian news of campus life. While the Internet, IPhones and PDAs have improved the accessibility of news around the world, they have also diminished the number of people who actually read printed papers. Due to demand, the Phoenix will once again be printed on newsprint and wind its way through the lengthy creation process to be delivered to your dorm-room. In addition to improving the printed Phoenix, it is one of my ambitions to revamp and revitalize the website, making it an additional source of exclusive content, including message boards and blogs, bringing the Phoenix into the 21st century of instantaneous accessibility. The Phoenix has had many incarnations with a plethora of names and it is my hope that this one will one day be remembered fondly amongst them.