Dear Editor,

I'm not sure if I like the evolution of The Utah Humanist publication.

First, when unable to attend a general meeting, a more comprehensive synopsis of the speeches is desirable instead of the scant ones now published as was, for example, Professor Boyer Jarvis's in January 2002 issue. No synopsis of the January speech was in February 2002 issue, so possibly an elimination of the speeches is forthcoming--an unacceptable decision.

Second, of all articles, except for the monthly meeting speeches, I find Richard Layton's articles the most enlightening, informative, varied, and interesting. I hope these, too, will not be curtailed and eventually eliminated.

Third, I am concerned a preponderance of material is provided every month by the editor and not enough by other varied and interesting writers. To obtain wider participation, one suggestion is to publish on a rotating basis articles/essays by each member of the Humanist board. Another suggestion is to personally invite specific individuals to provide an article, like Deen Chatterjee or Rocky Anderson.

Fourth, also disappointing and unsatisfactory are the shortened book reviews like those found in December 2001 issue written by Flo Wineriter and Wayne Wilson.

Fifth, while the graphics on the front pages are proper, this valuable space might be more efficiently used for e.g. fuller synopses of meeting speeches and longer book reviews.

Sixth, the calendar of events placed in the middle of The Utah Humanist is inconvenient. On the outer pages where the calendar used to be, looking up schedules was faster and easier.

Seventh, while the Bill of Rights (December 2001) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (January 2002) are important, I wonder how many read them. More interesting and inviting might be to single one or two amendments/articles and provide discussion on how they affect and influence our lives.

I appreciate those who expend time and energy into The Utah Humanist, and hope the points in this letter are useful to generate an even more relevant publication.

--Sarah Smith

Thank you for your honest remarks. Your use of the term "evolution" is especially apt, because evolution involves a series of more or less successful mutations. I've introduced a few mutations to The Utah Humanist, and I have to rely on readers like you to know if I'm on the right track.

I do hope to have more articles on the general meetings, but am not always able to attend or listen to recordings. Perhaps someone in the chapter would like to write up a summary?

Richard Layton's articles will, I hope, continue forever. His articles are known to humanist chapters throughout the nation, and for good reason.

More writers? I would love to feature more articles by others. I hope all who read this will consider writing something for these pages.

The book reviews are, alas, few and far between. We all read, we should spread the good word about the good books.

The graphics and the calendar insert are definitely experimental. My intent is to be stimulating and yet informative, and this is often a delicate balance. I welcome feedback on these matters.

Some of the material reflects my own subjective, editorial judgment and interests. You can help me produce a better journal by suggesting topics for greater discussion.

--Richard Garrard