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Dear Readers,
It is with great enthusiasm that I begin assuming my new
duties as Managing Editor of
Alpacas Magazine.
Like many
of you, I consider this publication to be one of the high-
lights of AOBA’s work to build the North American alpaca
industry. I have tracked the progress of the journal from its
first slender issues full of helpful information to the beautiful
publication of today, with its glamorous design and out-
standing contributors.
I received my first issue of
Alpacas Magazine
in the spring of
1996, before our alpaca farm had become a reality. I imme-
diately read that issue cover to cover, and I well recall how
much I relied on the information within those pages once
our alpacas arrived. I even read the ads, lingering over the
cute ones and coveting the “big name” alpacas with their
show ribbons. And I know that I am not alone in this: after
all these years, I still get excited when the next issue of
AM
hits my mailbox.
This magazine serves so many vital roles for our industry
that it is hard to decide which is most important. Consider
the marketing impact each
time someone new to alpacas
picks up an issue. Then there
is the important information
that helps us to keep our
alpacas healthy, run our busi-
nesses well, and develop our artistic abilities with fiber and
design ideas. And, of course, we rely on
AM
for important
industry news. Truly, each issue of
AM
represents the many
facets of living with alpacas.
And so I am feeling a little bit awed by the opportunity to
carry on the great work of the AM editors that have served
before me. My goal is to continue to produce a magazine that
meets, and anticipates, the needs of the industry, combining
a healthy dose of practicality with the joy of the creative
process. I am looking forward to being part of the current
AM
production team, and to working with all of you who support
and love this publication, this industry and, of course, alpacas.
Sincerely,
Deb Hill, Managing Editor
Spring 2010
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Darlene Reardon