I posted the following as part of a response in another thread, but that thread appears to have moved on to a different topic. So, I'm posting the information and question here, along with a poll.
We've heard a lot of discussion recently about a cover photo a few people on the forums don't like, but it would also be helpful to hear what people like.
USMS has published just eight issues since starting the magazine, and partial contents from back issues of the magazine may be found at:
www.usmsswimmer.com
So, what's your favorite cover?
By the way, the magazine staff receives and reviews ideas all year round. In addition, USMS has one big annual planning meeting each June to plan the following year's editorial calendar. SWIMMER receives a lot of completed manuscripts, but an outline or short synopsis is preferred. Writers who wish to be considered for future assignments are invited to send a published writing sample.
If you have ideas, thoughts, suggestions, or Letters to the Editor, please send them to:
editor@usms.org
Oh my GAW! Too funny!
Looks like the March/April 2006 cover's in the lead so far, but there must be more than 42 people out there who are interested in voting. While you're voting, take a minute to send us your suggestions (serious ideas are encouraged, although humorous ideas are also appreciated).
:)
Haha! That guy looks like he's dressed up as Christa from Survivor Pearl Islands.
All joking aside, the magazine staff is very interested in your ideas, so keep it coming. We do a big review once a year, and this year we're reviewing and planning at the end of June. I know you all have great ideas, so don't be shy, send me a message at: editor@usms.org. You can also send ideas to our Managing Editor at: virginia.sowers@douglasmurphy.com, and the USMS Editorial Committee Chair at: lynhzlwd@usms.org
Along with recording and discussing every idea I receive, this week I'm asking people and writing down their ideas while stalking about on deck at Nationals. I'm hearing some great ideas, and I'm definitely going to continue talking with people and writing down their ideas at Nationals and other events.
Bill
My absolute favorite is the September/October 2005 featuring Brian Goodell. I love the subtle V shaped design thing going on. One of the great things about the covers is the diversity of the designs. It is always a surprise to see what the cover will be.
Good job - love the magazine. I read it cover to cover.
I of course had to vote for open water as it is a Barb Harris photo and I believe the swimmer is Jenny Marine and Elk Lake is one of my all time favorite open water events/locations.
I actually visited a Noodles and Company in Fairfax for our Zone meet. AAAAGGGHH! I've crossed to the other side..... actually it was very good and great price.
http://www.noodles.com/
Swimmer magazine is a great read, it was just the cover that started this uproar was like looking at the picture someone claims is Aquagreek in a very small brief- a little startling and not what we were used to.
Originally posted by AnnG
I of course had to vote for open water as it is a Barb Harris photo and I believe the swimmer is Jenny Marine and Elk Lake is one of my all time favorite open water events/locations.
Correct. The open water cover features Jenny Marine of the Central Oregon Masters, and Barb Harris took the photo at Elk Lake in Bend. Barb, her husband Bob Bruce, and the swimmers from Central Oregon Masters (COMA) did a tremendous job on the feature!
The March/April 2006 cover shows that we don’t necessarily have to choose a well-known competitive swimmer to produce a great cover. I think that’s an important breakthrough.
SB
PS: I had lunch at a little eatery yesterday, and it made me think about some of our fans on the forum...it's a little chain restaurant that serves all types of pasta dishes. The restaurant is called Noodlin' and you can visit their web site at www DOT noodlin DOT net. Yakisoba noodles - deLISH!!
Haha! Can you believe? ;)
I have to vote for the last "noodling" cover because it was constructively controversial. Does anyone actually bother to look at a cover with the most recent multiple record breaking USMS All-American on it? Does it stimulate any reaction or reflection whatsoever? Yes, at some level, these folks deserve it. At another level, I hope for a bit more from our magazine than the "happy, happy, joy, joy" coverage you can find in any company newsletter.
Great job, editorial staff. You've exceeded my expectations. Keep it coming.
Matt
