Recently, I read a column by Marianne Aleardi, publisher and editor-inchief of SJ [South Jersey] magazine, a publication that covers the area where I live. Apparently, Marianne offers a column of thanks every December. Wonderful idea and since I had a column due, an obvious thought arose. Why not “steal” the idea?
For the first time in my 14 y ears at the magazine, allow me to offer these thanks during the Christmas and holiday season for those inside and outside our industry.
I’m thankful that:
• My publisher, John Ehlen, is as dedicated and enthused about the magazine as he was when he took over many years ago. We’ve had a very successful partnership, and I hope that continues for many more years.
• Mike Weil. If you look at the masthead, Mike’s name resides above mine. He’s the perfect editor-inchief, because he allows me to operate my magazine as I see fit with virtually zero interference. Yet, he’s always prepared to offer advice when I need it.
• Brandy Rollins and Danielle Lees. They’re the account executive and magazine designer. This is the brain trust, and I’ve always appreciated Brandy never getting ruffled and Danielle’s patience with my deadline issues and design requests.
• Don Frendberg. This former HARDI executive is now a friend, and because he’s still active in the HVACR industry, I call him when I need a second opinion, a historical perspective or a fresh viewpoint. Also, while I sometimes disagree with his columns, I enjoy reading and editing them.
• Michael Maynard. One of my best editorial decisions was to ask Michael to take on the writing of our spotlight features. He makes me look good in every issue.
• My regular contributors, Steve Coscia, Frank Hurtte, Bryan Jensen, Jon Melchi. Your subject matter, attention to detail and promptness (usually) in submitting are a blessing for this editor.
• Kudos to a fine group of proofers and copy editors, Chris, Milka and Neal.
• I’ve repeated this before, I’ll repeat here and I’ll repeat I’m sure a few more times: At my first conference (then NHRAW) in Reno, Nev., someone told me that I was about to meet some terrific people in a wonderful industry. Sounds like a polite, pro forma cliché, doesn’t it? Except it was true. That I should meet so few people I’ve disliked since I’ve been at the helm of this magazine still stuns me.
• To our advertisers for their support. They pay the bills and allow me to remain in this job.
• I’m thankful for the first amendment, which allows me to write whatever I want as long as I don’t break any libel laws.
• That as editor, I have full rein to write whatever I want regarding this industry (and even topics that are not directly related to HVACR). I’m one lucky fellow.
• To my new “buddy” Mark Kilmer, who allowed us to cover his company’s story in the shortest lead time I’ve ever had on this magazine.
• To Amazon one-click, for allowing me to go on Amazon, buy a book and leave – all within one minute.
• To my mother, Anna, whose positive attitude is an inspiration to me. To my dad, Paul Peric΄, who died this year on Good Friday, age 92. Despite the distance, I had many years to appreciate his wisdom, counsel and love of all things Croatian.
• To my wife, Cheryl, who puts up with my numerous failings, and to my son, Andrew, a college sophomore, who always studied hard, without much urging from his parents, which is why an elite educational institution accepted him. And to our dog, Maisy, who brings me unfettered joy and doesn’t care that I’m bald.
• To my readers, you the wholesalers, for whom we write about. After all, you’re the ones who really matter, and if you didn’t care enough, I wouldn’t be writing this column.
My closing advice for the season is so downright corny, I almost hesitate to mention it. This month, say thanks to someone who matters in your life. There is NEVER a better time than now. And, thanks, Marianne, for the idea.