[CH] Chile Pepper Mag
Ashkenaz, Scott (Scott.Ashkenaz@kla-tencor.com)
Fri, 5 Feb 1999 08:37:48 -0800
I have subscribed to CP ever since I accidentally stumbled across an issue
in 1991. I learned about this list there, and have made many memorable
dishes from its pages. (OK, when do the violins start up?) It has inspired
some of my travels, stocked my spice cabinet, and been a source for weird
and wonderful things. It was a pleasure to read, and even more fun to lend.
I've given subscriptions to friends, and friends have taken the magazine
seeds (those fall-out cards) from me.
As many people on the list have noted, the focus has changed from one of
exploration to one of exploitation. While I like the layout and style, I
find that the content has become insipid and insulting. After the first few
issues under the new staff, I wrote Joel Gregory a letter (real snail mail!)
describing my alarm over the dumbing-down of the stories and narrowing of
the scope. The letter did not rant, but pointed out what I saw as the loss
of things which had made me into a long-time subscriber. No part of this
letter was published in the "my goodness, I think that you all are
wonderful, thank you for enriching my life" letters section, but I did not
really expect that it would be. However, I never received any
acknowledgement or reply to what I believe to be a serious communication.
Since that time, the writing has become worse (even back then, I pointed out
the advertising nature of the promotion-articles), the information weaker,
and the advertisements a higher proportion. Wistfully, I am going to cancel
my subscription.
Although I feel a loss, I do find that this list and all of the wonderful
websites more than make up for it. The only thing is that they are too hard
to read while enjoying a good ring of fire in the throne room.
Mr. Gregory and the staff of CP (someone of which must subscribe here): you
have an audience of 1400+ subscribers and potential subscribers here. Many
have promoted the magazine over the years. Is a reply not warranted?
-s