Fried!

I have received many kind compliments since launching The Syncopated Times in February. One deeply gratifying recurring note of praise is that readers have declared how delighted they are to receive the paper in a timely fashion. That delight, when expressed, has been not unmixed with astonishment. It’s not unreasonable for subscribers to expect a paper that is readable, attractive, well-written, (relatively) error-free—and on time. I do not take my printer’s deadline lightly. What is a source of some amazement to me is that almost up until the last minute I am making additions and corrections in the layout. In spite of my stated deadline (to contributors and advertisers) of the tenth of the month prior to publication, I receive copy and ads harrowingly late. Yet—somehow—it all comes together. Let me say here that I am grateful for your support and encouragement. If you have written me a note by mail and have not received a reply, be assured that I have read it and smiled (if you meant to evoke a smile). It’s just that the plate-spinner does not take a bow in the middle of his act. The plates in question have not stopped spinning since the first day of this year. What I haven’t determined yet is to how much otherwise a reader or advertiser may expect to be entitled. Until I test that individually, I don’t know whether I’m dealing with a lamb or a lion. Your