Alert Concept: One compact
message per mailing;
semi-telegraphic style.
So the other day, the phone rings. It's past closing.
I'm running out the door. And, this guy from Boston calls. He's calling to compliment me on POST TIME USA's new
look. Of course, I'm thrilled. His name is John.
I ask, "John, specifically, why'd you call?" He replies, "The only reason was that POST TIME
doesn't have a published e-mail address. Otherwise, I'd've sent one along."
I tell him that I'm a dinosaur; that I, personally, still use a Selectric typewriter despite the technology
at the PT/USA. He reminds me about the dinos and suggests that I gallop closer to the pace. I tell him, "That's
old news; others have said similar things."
Now get this... He then retorts that "I could rule the world if I'd only do my Selectric 'thing' on a computer
keyboard."
I'm liking the banter. And, I'm lovin' this "ruling the world" concept. So, we talk some
more. One thing leads to the other: The state of racing. Disabled jockeys. Producing films
to raise money for them. You name it... we rattled. We're bonding! Okay?
Within 20 minutes, he's also talking about the missing mention of PT/USA's website in the publication.
I tell him of the pub's new website initiative. I ask him to visit the un-announced site. He admits to not being a webmaster
heavy... but a guy who understands the raw power of online publishing and knows how to harness it. Other than that,
John sheds the conversation by repeating that he had only called to compliment me and encourage our continued success at POST
TIME USA.
End of conversation:
He says goodbye... I say goodbye.
The next morning, I get a call from PT/USA's art director, Debbie, whose email address I offered in attempts
of at least being a gracious dinosaur. The guy sends two missives; one confirming his complimentary remarks...
and the other about Internet/Web things that could/should be done. The office consensus: There's nothing earthshaking
about his ideas. "Earthshaking" I tremble, "What's earth shaking is this guy... who I don't know... is telling
me how to rule the world!"
And among all other things, he says... "Gene... Publishing quarterly is fine, but news breaks momentarily...
And though you have important commentary to offer about it, you have no way to immediately communicate it. Gene... You need
an Alert... You know -- a private newsletter. No set schedule... No particular length... No creative writing. Just words and
if appropriate a picture."
And with that said, John produces this very, one-page site that you're viewing. It was blank!
I'm overwhelmed... feeling technically threatened.
Hey, I'm breakin' a lather!
And then he tells me to follow the bouncing ball.
"Click EDIT... Enter text... Click DONE... Click
PUBLISH." And with that accomplished, he informs me that everyone around
the world with Internet access, knowing or linked to this Web address can instantly view my words...
Just as you have now done!
So, welcome to...
My Private Alert: "Gino's Latest Scratches" - an online, unscheduled, newswire of
my latest pen-to-paper scratchings regarding our industry. I hope that you enjoy it.
You know, I'm thinking that I'm gonna dig ruling a corner of the Thoroughbred news commentary world.
Gino
Dinosaur No More
Your Comments Are Welcomed
