Dear friend;

They say �everything in its time,� and so comes the time to say goodbye, a difficult time to say the least, yet, as with so many things, tinged with prospects. I have had the honor and the pleasure of being the editor of this fine magazine for almost six years, and together we have traipsed the hills and valleys of Nevada�s politics, people, and history. Thorny issues have been discussed and debated, issues such as Nevada�s wretched election laws, Nevada�s current economic plight, water wars pitting neighbor against neighbor, and never let us forget dear old Yucca Mountain.

I�m going to sincerely miss writing about these issues for you, I�m going to sincerely miss your many comments and thoughts on those issues, and most of all, I�m going to miss the opportunities that we have had to get to know each other. Nevadans all, we�ve had a grand time of it, with discussions involving every imaginable political bent and philosophy.

The Nevada Observer will continue on, broaching issues yet known, under the tutelage of publisher David Thompson. This delightful magazine is read by thousands of Nevadans every issue, and will continue. Voices such as Hal Swift�s, Bob Bennett�s, and the far reaching Woody Barlettani will continue. Maybe yours will be included at some point, because we all have something to say.

Patty and I are going to be spending a great deal of time traveling in and around this fine state, sometimes in our pick up, some times on the back of our horses, and always with the thought of finding something new and wonderful or old and cherished. I have a novel or two that need polishing and publishing, Patty has canvasses that aren�t filled with color and life, and the Silver State is ready to let us have our way.

If we have met in person, I hope we meet again soon. If we have yet to shake hands and tell a tale, I hope it happens soon. With glasses raised on high. Until then, I remain your friend,

Johnny Gunn, retired