Dear Readers,
In February 2002 I got a phone call from Bob Spiess asking
me to take over the editorial duties at Modern Haiku. Modern
Haiku was Bobs life, and only the prospect of that life
ending made it necessary for him to consider giving up his stewardship.
I dont expect anyone will ever rival his twenty-four years
at the helm. Not I, certainly! I came to my post with several
goals in mind: to continue the fine tradition of stewardship
that Bob had established, to improve the appearance and typography
of the magazine, and to engage the talents of some of the best
poets writing in English. Whether we have made progress in any
or all these goals is for you, dear readers, to decide. I have
been at it for four years and believe it is now time to pass
the editorial pen.
I am delighted to announce that Charles Trumbull has agreed
to take over the editorship of Modern Haiku. His qualifications,
which by far exceed mine, are known to all. I hope you will
continue to show Charlie the generous support you have shown
me. Beginning March 15, 2006, the address for Modern Haiku will
be: Modern Haiku, PO Box 7046, Evanston, IL 60204-7046. With
the permission of the board of directors, I will stay on as
editor of Modern Haiku Press. The address for MHP will remain
the same as the current one: Box 68, Lincoln, IL 62656-0068.
Shortly before I took over the magazine, Charlie Trumbull did
an Internet survey of haiku magazines. I recall that one respondent
referred to Modern Haiku as the dowager empress
of haiku magazines. It has been my honor to supervise the extreme
makeover of the magazine. Thanks to Charlies professional
typesetting, the stunning cover designs of Lidia Rozmus, Randy
Brookss first-rate Web site, Paul Millers careful
overseeing of the book reviews, Eva Hills computer wizardry,
and the contributions of fine poets from around the world. I
hope you will agree that the old lady looks like she got a good
shot of botox.
I would especially like to express my deep appreciation to
the critics, contributors, and most especially the Friends of
Modern Haiku for making the last four years the most fulfilling
of my life.
Warmly in winter,
Lee Gurga, editor