Editors' note

January and February, 1998

I want to take this opportunity to tell you that I have decided to "retire" as the Executive Editor of Swine Health and Production. It is not without considerable mixed feelings that I have reached this decision. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with authors, our editorial board, reviewers, staff, and you, our readers. But I believe the journal could benefit from new ideas and enthusiasm, and I am sure there are others who would like the opportunity to guide its future. Moreover, I have been doing this for seven years and it feels like the right time to do something else.

There are several people whom I would like to acknowledge. First and foremost, we are very fortunate to have two particularly accomplished and dedicated staff persons. Ruth Cronje, our Associate Editor, has been with us since our first issue of the AASP Newsletter. She has been a constant source of support, insight, and enthusiasm for me. Dave Brown, our Publications Editor, is our technical guru in charge of graphic design, layout, and web site development. Dave continues to amaze me with his expertise and cooperative spirit.

I also want to thank the AASP Executive Committee. Tim Loula, Gary Dial, and Jack Anderson had the confidence to allow us to start the journal. And since then, the Executive Committee has been a constant source of support, giving us the ability to continue its development into an internationally recognized forum for applied swine science. More recently, it has been a particular pleasure to work with Tom Burkgren, our Executive Director.

Swine Health and Production has enjoyed the financial support of our Industry Support Council members (listed on the opposite page). The fact that we have had very little turnover over the years and a waiting list of new sponsors indicates our mutually beneficial relationship.

As I leave this position, my intention is to ensure a smooth transition to our new Executive Editor. Our Executive Committee and I will begin a search to find the best person. If you are interested or know someone who might be, please contact Tom Burkgren or me. Being Executive Editor is a special privilege afforded to few individuals and I am very thankful to have had the opportunity.

-- Bob Morrison