Praise

Over 200 reasons to join Sensations Magazine

(Above) Taking a bow for 20 years of consistent excellence
Photograph by Cheryl Korn, from the Summer 1997 Sensations Magazine

We take pride in what we do.  My volunteer editors and I have spent thousands of hours of our lives judging poetry and fiction, constructing and selling magazines and books, and securing venues and audiences for talented poets, musicians, and dancers to share their talents with the world.  It is such hard, time-consuming work, sometimes we think people should shower us with praise - or at least click a PayPal button once a year (or once in 20 years).

Thankfully, we have heard many nice things.  Praise for how we operate, how we publish, how we conduct events, and how we conduct ourselves.  And now, we'd like to share a healthy helping of it with you.  

Whether you are weighing whether or not to join or rejoin us, or simply curious to see what we've seen, here are quotations from the many letters we've received since 1987:  over 200 accolades, all of them unsolicited.

From our satisfied customers, here are over 200 reasons to join or rejoin Sensations Magazine:

1. "All in all, this sounds like a very ambitious project, especially with its glossy format ... best of luck with it!"
   - Judson Jerome, Poet's Market, Oct. 9, 1986
    
2. "The beginnings of your new publication sound exciting.  I wish you luck and await the arrival of the first issue."
   - Lorin E. Marshall, Mobile, AL, July 13, 1987
    
3. "As you know, it takes a lot of dedication to get a new literary magazine off the ground, and even more to keep it flying.  Good luck with Sensations Magazine."
   - Richard Foerster, Literature Editor, Chelsea, York Beach, ME, July 24, 1987
    
4. "I am extremely pleased to see your creativity ROAR again! ... I have confidence that this will be a big success."
   - Chris Marchetti, Poet, Plainsboro, NJ July 27, 1987
    
5. "It was very nice to hear from you and see that you're as enterprising as ever . . . please accept the enclosed check . . . as a donation to your new publication.  I look forward to reading the first issue."
   - Stephen F. Allen, Rockville, MD, Sept. 2, 1987
    
6. "As you surmised, I was a bit suspicious at first when you mentioned that there would be a charge for having the manuscript read.  Since several of my stories have already been published in literary magazines and university reviews without my having to pay a reading fee, I was reluctant to follow through with your offer.  However, your detailed explanation in the second letter about the costs of getting your new publication off the ground made sense to me.  I can well understand the financial difficulties of such an undertaking in today's economy."
   - Patricia Flinn, Warren, NJ, Nov. 20, 1987
    
7. "Thank you for Sensations; I promptly read 'Interviews Can Be Hell' to my top group, who enjoyed it thoroughly!  Enclosed is a check toward the second issue.  Good luck!"
   - JoAnne Kean, Teacher, Little Falls, NJ, Jan. 21, 1988
    
8. "In response to your inquiry, I would be happy to contribute toward your publication.  I am certain that your persistence will develop into success one day and am happy to be a part of it."
   - Angelo Servidio, Attorney, Nutley, NJ, Jan. 25, 1988
    
9. "How exciting, a new magazine!  I hope this latest endeavor works well for you."
   - Bob DiMartino, Teacher, White Plains, NY, Jan. 26, 1988
    
10. "I appreciate the time and energy you and your readers gave to my works ... I will certainly do my best to (rework my story) ... especially since you were so kind to write me such a long, encouraging, and informative letter, and since I was so pleased with being included in your first issue of Sensations Magazine ... your careful editing and critical comments have been very helpful."
    - Patricia Flinn, Warren, NJ, Dec. 3, 1988
     
11. "I was extremely impressed with the quality and layout of the recent (second) issue of Sensations Magazine.  It clearly shows how much time and effort is devoted to publishing a magazine ... the type of print used really gives it a classy appearance.  I especially liked the drawing of eyes at the end of my short story and the brief bio on me."
    - Barbara Bell-Valletto, Philadelphia, PA, Feb. 2, 1989
     
12. "It gives me great pleasure to be subscribing to your Sensations.  You were one of my most promising students and I'm delighted to hear that you are following your dream.  I hope you will find satisfaction in your role as an editor and joy in your gift as a poet."
    - Jeanne Jagiello, Teacher, Little Falls, NJ, Feb 5, 1989
     
13. "The issue looks great.  The printing and binding came out really well, and I really liked the color photograph on the cover.  That must have taken some time, effort, and money   I also only spotted 5 or 6 typos - that's pretty impressive ... all in all, however, you guys did an excellent job with presentation."
    - Marilyn Hartl, commenting on Issue 2, Feb. 28, 1989
    (EDITOR'S NOTE:  We've gotten much better with typos in the many years we've done this, and always strive for typo-free issues.)
     
14. "The last issue looked great ... the barber shop story was an especially effective slice of life."
    - John H. Wilson, Bronx, NY, Feb. 22, 1989
     
15. "I did enjoy the stories.  I especially liked John Wilson's ... it rumbles around in the back of my brain still, and I read it about a month ago."
    - Denise Woodring-Schoch, Bethel, CT, March 15, 1989
     
16. "Thanks for Sensations - looks great!"
    - Joe Bracco, Musician, March 1989
     
17. "I really enjoyed the copy of the second issue you sent me."
    - Mauro F. Bruno, Poet, April 27, 1989
     
18. "My congratulations on the second issue of Sensations Magazine!  It was a pleasure to read, and I thought the graphics were very effective."
    - Brenda Clark, Vancouver, British Columbia, May 1, 1989
     
19. "No magazine I've run into yet has taken the time and effort with their writers as you and your staff have."
    - Karl Luntta, Barnstable, MA, June 12, 1989
     
20. "Bravo!  Issue 3 of Sensations was extremely enjoyable.  'Forgotten Faces ...' was dynamite.  Congratulations!"
    - Jesus Lopez, Staten Island, NY, June 30, 1989
     
21. "We would like to sell Issue Three in the Museum of Holography Gift Shop."
    - Museum of Holography representative, New York, NY, on the first American literary magazine to feature a hologram on its cover, June 1989
     
22. "Sounds like things are going very well with Sensations.  Keep it up and the best of luck to you all.  I feel pleased to have been part of one of your issues, and I hope to be again in the future.  Keep me posted.  I'm only sorry I missed the deadline for issue #3.  As for #4, have I got a story for you ..."
    - Karl Luntta, Barnstable, MA, July 27, 1989
     
23. "I am particularly pleased to be supporting the publication of local writers here in New Jersey as well as a magazine with an international scope ... I think your offer to call, along with your very generous philosophy to respond with a 'personal treatment' to your contributing subscribers is an attitude to emulate."
    - Alan Davis-Drake, Editor, Archae, Feb. 26, 1990
     
24. "I'd like the look of my work in Sensations."
    - Daniel Green, Poet, Sarasota, FL, March 28, 1990
     
25. "Sounds like some exciting Sensations coming out.  I like the way everything is so well-thought-out and planned.  Unique, in these days of 'slapdash' publications."
    - David Wyder, Editor, Daily Cow, Passaic, NJ, May 13, 1990
     
26. "Quite an impressive pamphlet on Sensations Magazine!  I enthusiastically join and submit my work."
    - Thomas E. Meell, Teacher/Writer, Cliffside Park, NJ, June 12, 1990
     
27. "I'm interested in submitting to you because I loved the sample poem in Poet's Market 1990 ... I trust your poets will be more involved than reflecting upon the passage of time from the summer house's kitchen window."
    - Judy Askew, San Francisco, CA, July 7, 1990
     
28. "Thanks for sending me information concerning Sensations.  I am glad to learn your effort is still alive ... I am very interested in reading your pieces on Christopher Columbus (Cristobal Colon?).  Your idea for that was terrific."
    - William Lango, Vintage Castings, Inc., July 30, 1990
     
29. "You've done a great job with Sensations - very impressive.  Though I am not surprised; I knew you would."
    - Teri Ryan, Yonkers, NY, July 31, 1990
     
30. "Compliments on your magazine.  Your innovative ideas about literary publications resonate in a world where support grants are getting scarcer."
    - Verbena Pastor, Barre, VT, Aug. 2, 1990
     
31. "I look forward to working with you and your purpose.  It is indeed refreshing to see your attitude to the arts.  Fight for the evolution of the language and stir up stagnation and misuse.  Any suggestions, help or criticism is greatly appreciated.  I hope that i am not a pseudo-poet as per Brenda Clark."
    - Timothy Almaguer, Baltimore, MD, Aug. 7, 1990
     
32. "Good to hear Sensations is taking off.  I continue to hope for the absolute best for yourself and the others who are volunteering their time in this effort.  In the future I hope to be sending you material from some acquaintances in Long Island who are very serious, passionate writers.  (All I've got to do is convince them to open their workbooks to the public!)"
    - Matthew Cabezas-Buhse, Long Island, Aug. 7, 1990
     
33. "I appreciate your letter of 10/2, your comments, attitude, and especially the time you took to respond.  I also appreciate your publishing my work in Sensations."
    - Errol Miller, Poet, Monroe, Louisiana, Oct. 8, 1990
     
34. "I very much like the sounds of your magazine and your refreshing ways of dealing with us struggling writers out here in 'postal land.'  I would love to submit to a magazine such as yours ... it sounds marvelous."
    - Mark Aitchinson, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil, Oct. 13, 1990
     
35. "Your critiques are so helpful."
    - Phyllis Jean Green, Chapel Hill, NC, Nov. 1990
     
36. "I remember our meeting at NJIT in April 90 very well.  Sensations is a great mag and I'm glad you're continuing with it."
    - Stephen Komeshok, Poet, Clifton, NJ, Dec. 7, 1990
     
37. "Leona and I are very happy with the publication of her sketches in Sensations.  It is a handsome and interesting issue."
    - Daniel Green, on Issue 4, Dec. 10, 1990
     
38. "Congratulations on a fine magazine."
    - Verbena Pastor, fiction writer/novelist, Barre, VT, Dec. 10, 1990
     
39. "It certainly was a nice surprise to find Jacques le Moyne's artwork of Laudonniere and Athore in front of the Ribault Monument on the front cover of the Fourth issue of 1900 for Sensations Magazine.  It's always great to see the story of our site spread amongst the public ... thanks for the publicity."
    - Paul A. Ghioto, Interpretive Specialist, U.S. Dept. of Interior, National Park Service, Fort Caroline National Memorial, Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve, Jacksonville, FL, Dec. 13, 1990
     
40. "I am excited to hear about your literary activities.  You are to be congratulated.  Personal literary efforts have such bleak opportunities and horizons in our society - a society which needs to hear its people speak, to build a communal soul - yours is a welcome voice ... your Rediscovering America in Poetry series does indeed sound exciting - and is a formidable piece of research!"
    - Richard Crews, President, Columbia Pacific University, Mill Valley, CA, Dec. 9, 1990/Jan 1., 1991
     
41. "Thank you very much for sending us your recently published issue of Sensations Magazine (Issue Four), with the section on early American poetry that you worked so hard on.  The issue is very impressive ... we were glad to be of some small help in the research."
    - Jean Trapido-Rosenthal, Librarian, St. Augustine Historical Society, St. Augustine, FL, Feb. 6, 1991
     
42. "You have probably just received my attempt at a villanelle ... and here is a rondel ... thank you once again for setting me these inspiring challenges ... I have enjoyed our dialog - I greatly appreciate your responsiveness and personal comments."
    - Richard Crews, Mill Valley, CA, March 5, 1991
     
43. "Thank you for the magazines and photos.  You wrote a beautiful piece on my son, Joey, and I really thank you from the bottom of my heart ... your magazine is wonderful, and I wish you good luck and much success!"
    - Mildred Bracco, Seaford, NY, on Issue 5, May 22, 1991
     
44. "I really was so proud to be presented in this season's Sensations.  I've read and reread it several times.  And your insights into publishing really helped me to further appreciate it.  It's just a wonderful edition.  You should be proud of yourself.  Your hard work and dedication are apparent."
    - Leeander Scott, New York, NY, on Issue 5, May 1991
     
45. "Thank you for the latest issue of Sensations, and your note requesting more poetry - it's a lovely magazine, and I appreciate what you're trying to do with it."
    - Angela C. Mankiewicz, May 24, 1991
     
46. "Your publication is truly lovely from cover to cover.  You and your staff put a great deal of effort into the magazine and it really shows.  Congratulations.  Keep up the good work.  I enjoyed reading all the poems and stories (in Issue Five) ... the Rediscovering America in Poetry series was very educational and interesting.  All the artwork was great, too ... thanks again for critiquing my poems ... greatly improved."
    - Florence Szerlag Maerz, Darien, IL, May 28, 1991
     
47. "A good issue - oh, & here's your $20."
    - John Wilson, on Issue 5, June 14, 1991
     
48. "Sensations continues to astound with its beauty ... Proud to be associated with Sensations, in any event.  Wouldn't be surprised if your way is the wave of the future."
    - Phyllis Jean Green, Chapel Hill, NC, July 9, 1991
     
49. "I was pleasantly surprised to read about you and Sensations in the Star-Ledger today!  ... I'm very interested in your Rediscovering America in Poetry Series.  I teach American literature ... and I've been looking for years (in vain) for literature of America in the pre-colonial times to incorporate into my class.  I must have Parts I and II of the series for my class by September (or sooner).  What a serendipitous occasion - I can begin my chronological survey of American literature with Indian literature and selections from Sensations!  Please send me Parts I and II ASAP."
    - Michael T. Kelly, Teacher, Secaucus High School,
    Aug. 9, 1991
     
50. "I read the Star-Ledger article, Friday, August 9, 1991, on your magazine Sensations.  I wish your staff and yourself good luck.  I edited ANHOI with Joel Lewis and Cheryl Fish a few years back in Weehawken and I know about editorial decisions ... good luck with the new magazine."
    - Ed Smith, Clifton, NJ, Aug. 15, 1991
     
51. "I enjoyed yesterday at Cup & Chaucer, and do hope to get notice of your upcoming readings ... thanks for hospitality and good poetry!"
    - Mary E. Grow, Morristown, NJ, Oct. 6, 1991
     
52. "Man, what critiques you guys give!  Quite encompassing.  Quite ripping - makes me ashamed to submit my pieces elsewhere.  But I need some shame!  You have done more work than could have been expected of any editor.  And it's helpful."
    - Rick Dellenbach, Tuscon, AZ, Nov. 5, 1991
     
53. "Sensations Magazine offers a timeless lesson in the passion of language.  Beginning and established writers are in good hands with this publication."
    - Marina Cramer, Cup & Chaucer Bookstore, Dec. 1991
     
54. "Without outside support from our community members, Hyacinth would not be able to carry out its work.  The work that we do in NJ is so very important, especially those people in need of AIDS services.  I want to thank you for all of your support."
    - Joan C. Barry, Hyacinth Foundation, Jan 11, 1992, on Sensations Magazine fundraiser for Hyacinth Foundation
     
55. "It is so refreshing to actually learn something from a submission other than 'We appreciate your interest in our magazine.'  I find your method of reviewing work to be an effective writer's tool."
    - Ronald Sklar, Willow Grove, PA, March 20, 1992
     
56. "On behalf of the Trustees of The Montclair Historial Society, please accept our thanks for your poetry presentation on Sunday, May 17.  The presence of the members of your group for the three readings, and especially the signers for the hearing-impaired, gave a new dimension to our activities."
    - Charlotte Seymour, May 22, 1992, on our costumed colonial American poetry at the Society headquarters
     
57. "I finished reading the latest issue of Sensations - nice diversity of work and contributors.  Bet you're glad the research project is over."
    - Patrick T. Hammer, Fort Lee, NJ, June 4, 1992
     
58. "I'm greatly honored getting such a long letter from you, especially since your time is limited.  You certainly go beyond the call of duty when it comes to helping someone out.  Thanks for all the time that you spend on my work.  Your comments ... are good ones.  I appreciate your frankness and always welcome suggestions for improvement."
    - Florence Szerlag Maerz, Darien, IL, Oct. 17, 1992
     
59. "I just received my copy of Sensations.  It looks good, as usual."
    - Dorian Tenore-Bartilucci, Editor, First Draft, Oct. 19, 1992
     
60. "I am in the middle of reading your Columbus article, and just had to stop and write to you.  Congratulations on putting out such a fine issue - and writing such a fascinating piece!!  You certainly have showed me much! - and it is those who teach me ... that I truly value ... can you send another copy?"
    - Seth Joseph Weine, New York, NY, Oct. 19, 1992
     
61. "By the way, the librarian will put the eighth issue of Sensations in reference.  She says otherwise it will be stolen!  I suppose that could be a compliment."
    - Moira Bailis, Fort Lee, NJ, Oct. 22, 1992
     
62. "Thank you for sending me the Eighth Issue of Sensations Magazine (8 Oct 1992).  I want to congratulate you for your excellent research series, "Rediscovering America in Poetry.'  I think it is a significant contribution to Columbian studies and to the Quincentenary.  Your article, 'Good vs. Evil in Christopher Columbus:  Poetry and Passages in His Book of Prophecies,' demonstrates a good deal of research and thought on your part.  You were seeking the truth, without any agenda, and gave many insights into the complexity of Columbus and the mysteries surrounding him.  I appreciate the article very much ... you are a very capable editor and writer, and I have every expectation that you will make your mark in publishing.  I wish you much success."
    - Kay Brigham, Miami, FL, Oct. 27, 1992
     
63. "Sensations is a fine magazine, sincere and high-quality ... I think sponsored readings are a good idea ... Congratulations on fine work."
    - Jim Nicosia, College Instructor, Clifton, NJ, Dec. 7, 1992
     
64. "The Harris Collection of American Poetry and Plays, part of the Brown University Library, is a nationally recognized research collection whose holdings extend from the seventeenth century to the present ... the Harris Collection is interested (in all) back issues from 1987."
    - Gretchen S. Yealy, Asst. Head, Serials Dept., Brown University Library, Providence, RI, Dec. 23, 1992
     
65. "I give you credit about your work on developing a good magazine."
    Bazhe Kargovski, Yugoslavia, Dec. 30, 1992
     
66. "Do like Sensations so much - covers are gorgeous and your purpose ... maybe I'll write a proper letter one day."
    Phyllis Jean Green, Chapel Hill, NC, 1993
     
67. "It is with great interest that I read in the latest issue of the Secaucus Reporter about Sensations and the literary group of people responsible for its exceptionally long life, as far as poetry magazines go."
    - Marta Sawczuk, Secaucus, NJ, Sept. 20, 1993
     
68. "Thank you for your interest in my work - and as always your persistence, tenacity, etc.  I'm very pleased to have a local poem ("Snake Hill") in a local venue, but a venue that spans seven continents (or used to!)."
    - John J. Trause, Wood-Ridge, NJ, Nov. 13, 1993
     
69. "Thank you!  Thank you!  Thank you!  I'm still walking on air! ... I'm looking so forward to seeing the issue."
    - Treva Myatt, Nov. 20, 1993, on receiving her publication acceptance, and corresponding payment
     
70. "I wanted to say thank you for your beautiful, gracious note and kind words.  It is a pleasure to be associated with an editor like you."
    - Treva Myatt, Dec. 13, 1993
     
71. "I've shown this current issue of Sensations to several people here - all were quite impressed with your publication - and its presentation and contents.  Thought you'd like to know of any reactions to Sensations!"
    - Rita Michels, Little Ferry, NJ, Dec. 14, 1993
     
72. "The magazine is terrific.  I'm so proud to be included."
    - Moira Bailis, Fort Lee, NJ, on Issue 9, Dec. 19, 1993
     
73. "The new Sensations looks great!"
    - Dorian Tenore-Bartilucci, Riverdale, NY, Dec. 23, 1993
     
74. "I got the magazine.  It looks GREAT!"
    - Marilyn Hartl, Austell, GA, Dec. 23, 1993, on Issue 9
     
75. "I have to give you the ultimate compliment:  every issue of Sensations Magazine, from Issue 1 to Issue 8, has been stolen out of my office!  I'm going to have to bolt down the Sixth Anniversary Issue."
    - John Pirro, Doctor of Optometry, Rockaway, NJ, Dec. 1993
     
76. "On behalf of all members of the Clark Historical Society, a big THANK YOU for the December 12, 1993 Poetry Reading unique program.  I enjoyed it very much and I thank you personally also."
    - Virginia Apelian, President, Clark Historical Society, Dec. 30, 1993
     
77. "You've outdone yourself again.  The Sixth Anniversary Issue is absolutely stunning."
    - Melanie Pimont, Editor, North River Review, Fort Lee, NJ, January 1994
     
78. "It was a pleasure to hear you read at Barnes & Noble on January 6.  I enjoyed the sestina, and can appreciate the difficulty you must have encountered in writing it ... you handed out these return envelopes at the reading for information about the magazine.  I couldn't pass up the opportunity to contact you without enclosing a poem or two."
    - Joseph Penczak, Rahway, NJ, Jan. 11, 1994
     
79. "Enjoyed your work at Joshua Meander's Nomads Choir earlier this month.  Please send me the information needed for obtaining a copy of Sensations Magazine."
    - Bob Barci, Elmont, NY, Jan. 24, 1994
     
80. "I hope you get a great response from other readers and contributors.  Seeing my story as you printed it - a beautiful Red Letter day in my writing!!"
    - Treva Myatt, Toledo, OH, Feb. 7, 1994
     
81. "Best wishes for continued successes in your publications!"
    - Hermin A. Estrin, Director, NJIT Writers' Conference, May 20, 1994
     
82. "Thank you for publication in Sensations.  It was the light that broke through the fog for me today ... you put together a very fine journal of poetry."
    - Baloian, Half Moon Bay, CA, May 12, 1994
     
83. "Your issue of 1994, Hope Against Hate, helps hit home the accent of your magazine in favor of the underdog."
    - Dr. Rena Navon, Haifa, Israel, May 1994
     
84. "Your Hope Against Hate reminds me of poetry journals from the late sixties.  I mean this as a compliment."
    - Eugenia Macer-Story, New York, NY, June 27, 1994
     
85. "We're doing a fundraising special on WBAI Arts Magazine September 22.  We'd like to do a phone interview with you about how you make it without grant funding."
    - Martha Cinader, Arts Producer, WBAI, Sept. 15, 1994
     
86. "I received your collective critique and wish to thank you very much indeed!  Your comments were most encouraging and the level of marks came as a complete surprise to me.  I do appreciate your efforts and shall certainly take your advice."
    - Florence Lewis, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada, Dec. 9, 1994
     
87. "You're an encourager, David (like Barnabus in the New Testament).  God bless you."
    - Maude Carolan, Totowa, NJ, Jan. 2, 1995
     
88. "Am very much enjoying my GORGEOUS Issue #11!"
    - Phyllis Jean Green, Chapel Hill, NC, Jan. 10, 1995
     
89. "Any magazine that pays $125 per poem gets my support if I never see my name in it!  What an excellent idea. ... Thanks to Michael Brown who ended his tour at Cleveland State University last night, I don't have to be concerned about the quality of your beautiful magazine - I had a chance to look through one of the copies he had with him."
    - Mary E. Weems, Cleveland, OH, Feb. 2, 1995
    (EDITOR'S NOTE:  Sensations Magazine regrettably had to reduce our payment policy after that issue, since our generosity bankrupted us - and took us years to recoup.  Sensations Magazine paid generously for the top poems per issue through 2006, and offers copy copies as "payment" starting in 2008.)
     
90. "The reading was fun; the poets were interesting, and the dance was wonderful."
    - Elizabeth Marchitti, Totowa, NJ, Feb. 20, 1995, on the Feb. 1995 program at Fort Lee Public Library
     
91. "I enjoyed reading my sample copy, #11.  After reading your poem, I certainly now look at fish tanks in a different way."
    - Robin L. Bayne, Lutherville, MD, Aug. 7, 1994
     
92. "I really mean this - the Coney Island issue is the most beautiful single issue of any literary magazine I've ever seen."
    - George C. Harvilla, Garfield, NJ, 1997
     
93. "Thank you very much for your wonderful letter and your time.  You and Melanie Pimont have done good literary critics' work.  I reckon you to be professional and first and foremost a special man.  I duly appreciate your kindness."
    - Barbara Aleksandrowicz, Wallington, NJ, Feb. 2, 1996
     
94. "I'm so happy I went Saturday to the senior center.  I thought the program was excellent.  Most of all a book about Coney Island and a bonus with the poetry, too."
    - Dorothea O'Neill, Rutherford, NJ, Oct. 2, 1995, on the Coney Island Issue Debut at Kip Center, Sept. 30, 1995
     
95. "My mother told me all about your lecture and the (Coney Island) book.  The last time I talked to her Sat. Oct. 7 she was still saying how nice it was ... I am so grateful she died knowing kind people like you."
    - Sheila Massoni, Hackensack, NJ, Nov, 1995
    (EDITOR'S NOTE:  The enclosed obituary, dated Mon Oct. 9, 1995, noted "Mrs. O'Neill was a direct descendent of John Howland of The Mayflower."  We're glad our Coney Island issue debut and reading brought her some delight in her final days.)
     
96. "Just saw your listing in Poet's Market 1996.  And I must say:  very intriguing and impressive-sounding ... 'Respect and remarkable courtesy" - these are traits, values, attitudes that I prize highly."
    - Blair Ewing, Clarksville, MD, Dec. 5, 1995
     
97. "Having come across your copywork agreement last week I noticed the anticipated publication date of Fall 1995 for your magazine on Coney Island.  I wanted to inquire if you had completed it.  As your choice of images from the Brooklyn Collection was so comprehensive, I was hoping to request a copy of it if it's now available.  The addition of this interesting publication to our local history division would complement our library's missions to collect, preserve, and make available materials on Brooklyn's history."
    - Julie Moffat, Photo/Archivist, Brooklyn Public Library, Jan. 22, 1996
     
98. "Sensations is developing a fan club here."
    - Dianalee Velie, Darien, CT, Jan. 17, 1996
     
99. "Thank you for sending the CONEY ISLAND issue ... Thank you, David, it is truly a magnificent work of Art.  Thanks again for all your support and interest in my poetry.  I feel very special to be a part of the SENSATIONS family."
    - Baloian, Half Moon Bay, CA, Jan. 20, 1996
     
100. "Thank you for your honest and helpful critique of my poems.  I am truly most appreciative and can really see what you mean."
     - Susan Norton, San Marino, CA, Jan. 22, 1996
      
101. "I am enclosing $25 for another copy of The Coney Island Issue.  Everyone I show it to is awed by its clarity of images and its informative and creative epiphanies about an incredible experience in America.  I feel fortunate to have been a part of the issue."
     - Baloian, Half Moon Bay, CA, March 15, 1996
      
102. "Thank you for the welcome and sample issue of Sensations.  I enjoyed every reading moment."
     - Diane L. Kreuger, Rockaway, NJ, June 1996
      
103. "It's been a long time since Fordham and Alternative Motifs when I had the privilege to talk with you about writing.  I'm happy to see that one of us has continued to pursue the dream; congratulations on your achievements with Sensations Magazine!"
     - Mauro F. Bruno, Pine Bush, NY, Aug. 12, 1996
      
104. "I greatly appreciate your comments and helpful advice about my submissions.  You are in good control as a judge in suggesting how poems can be made better.  I learn a lot from you, and thank you very much.  I will try to improve my poems along the lines you noted in your comment sheets.  I wish to thank guest editor, Melanie Pimont, for her interest and comments, too.  Thank you, too, for the Hope Against Hate - Summer 1994 issue.  It is a true and a fine informative issue."
     - Bettye K. Wray, Birmingham, AL, Jan. 18, 1996
      
105. "Thank you again for your invitation to a wonderful afternoon of poetry and wine.  I was so inspired in listening and learning from you and the other poets.  I appreciate your faith in me and will continue to polish my craft."
     - Fran Vosteen, Fort Lee, NJ, Oct. 17, 1996
      
106. "I wanted to thank you again for inviting Fran and I to your poetry reading at the winery.  It was a great learning experience being in the company of published poets and hearing their work.  It was especially helpful hearing your work from different stages in time."
     - Caterina Belvedere, Fort Lee, NJ, Oct. 22, 1996
      
107. "I've seen you read your work before at the Barnes & Noble in West Paterson.  You seem like a very respectable fellow whose work is very admirable.  I'm certain a few writers such as yourself would seek the same quality work from contributors before sending out his offering for another's enjoyment ... I love romantic poetry, and I find your voice in this category many times unchallenged."
     - Stephen G. Sears, Bloomfield, NJ, March 1, 1997
      
108. "Several weeks have passed and I only now find time to thank you for the invitation to the poetry reading ... it was really lovely to read right in one's own neighborhood, and to be included in representing one's own community.  My friends who attended were especially appreciative.  Neither had ever been to a poetry reading.  They were both convinced that it would be a laborious evening full of stuffy and unfathomable poems.  Sort of like grade school poetry.  Please know that to their chagrin they were surprisingly moved and enjoyed all that had been offered."
     - Leeander Scott, New York, NY, May 4, 1997
      
109. "I was just re-reading the Sensations Magazine calendar, and the New Jersey Poetry Calendar, as well.  Wow, you are all over the N.J. calendar this month.  Good for you!"
     - Elizabeth Marchitti, Totowa, NJ, June 5, 1997
      
110. "First, let me thank you for being a wonderful guide/host/director etc ... for this past weekend's readings and activities.  Not only was it a pleasure participating in the Sensations readings, but the company couldn't have been better."
     - George C. Harvilla, Pequannock, NJ, June 9, 1997
      
111. "You did it again ... another beautiful magazine."
     - Maude Carolan, Totowa, NJ, on Issue 14, June 10, 1997
      
112. "The new mag is superb! ... Good illustrations."
     - Mary Grow, Morristown, NJ, on Issue 14, June 17, 1997
      
113. "Thank you for being a benevolent force in society, among men and women of letters ... the Pope's right, there is dignity in labor, such as yours.  You are the man behind the magazine, the readings ... thank you for publishing efforts and letting all of us READ our own and our forebear's work."
     - Frank L. Niccoletti, Nov. 19, 1997
      
114. "I just wanted to thank you for all your support over these past ten years.  It's been a pleasure to appear in your magazine.  I really enjoyed the anniversary reading at the Newark Public Library.  Thank you for including me.  I look forward to the next ten years.  Please know that I take great pride in playing a small part of your extraordinary accomplishment."
     - Leeander Scott, New York, NY, Nov. 26, 1997
      
115. "Thank you for all the time you have given to so many poems, and certainly to mine.  The original comments have been helpful."
     - Sara Claytor, Carrboro, NC, Dec. 18, 1997
      
116. "I did indeed like your Coney Island issue of Sensations, but mere hours after I got it my friend and colleague Ric Burns borrowed my copy, and I haven't seen it since."
     - Richard F. Snow, Editor, American Heritage, Feb. 13, 1998
      
117. "Loved the magazine."
     - Barbara Meyerson, Ringwood, NJ, Feb. 17, 1998
      
118. "I'm pleased to be reading with Melanie Pimont.  I think her poetry is beautiful."
     - Elizabeth Marchitti, Totowa, NJ, Mar. 31, 1998, on her feature reading at Newark Public Library's Centennial Hall
      
119. "Truly, until I saw the publication listed in Poet's Market, I had no idea of its existence, and I am happy to see that someone somewhere is writing about the history of witchcraft in an informed manner."
     - Magdalena Alagna, New York, NY, April 15, 1998
      
120. "Dear David - Yes, you've convinced me:  I cannot be considered a Literate Person unless I own the Coney Island issue.  Please send it.  Thanks."
     - Warren Kliewer, founder of East Lynne Theater Co., April 20, 1998
      
121. "Theme issues usually don't appeal to me, but I could not dismiss the opportunity to inquire about this intriguing 350th anniversary (of American witchhunts)."
     - Alex D. Lucas, Greensboro, NC, May 26, 1998
      
122. "I am a proudly self-identified gay professional writer and poet who is currently seeking submission guidelines from publications such as yours, which I have learned about through the enthusiastic recommendation of friends as well as your listing in the 4th edition of Putting Out."
     - Adam Henry Carriere, Las Vegas, NV, July 27, 1998
      
123. "Thank you, first, for proposing representation by poetry organizations and poetry publications at the 1998 Geraldine R. Dodge Poetry Festival and thank you, again, for agreeing to organize that representation.  This letter authorizes you to carry out that organizing under the conditions that we have discussed ... the poetry community owes you thanks for your generous commitment of time and energy to this effort."
     - James Haba, Poetry Coordinator, The Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, Aug. 20, 1998
      
124. "Thank you for organizing the NJ magazine display at the Dodge Festival.  I think it's the first time since the very first festivals - '86-88 - that the literary mags have been welcomed.  Good going!"
     - Sander Zulauf, Editor, Journal of New Jersey Poets, Randolph, NJ, Aug. 31, 1998
      
125. "Here I am almost a month after the October 25 reading.  The Palmyra Cafe offered the right atmosphere.  We sat surrounded by books, listening and reading poetry.  My husband and I enjoyed the intimacy of the place, the people that were there.  I like listening to other poets treat similar subjects from a totally different point of view.  I enjoyed your work.  Although I have heard you read before, there was a flow and affirmation in those pieces that stayed with me."
     - Mika Applebaum, Bridgewater, NJ, Nov. 19, 1998
      
126. "I'd also like to thank you - for being the first magazine to publish me 'back in the day,' and for all the motivation since."
     - K. Liz Sieradzki, Nov. 20, 1998
      
127. "I'm publishing a book of my poetry and will be honored if you'll write a blurb to go on the back cover... can't think of anyone I'd like better than you to help launch this."
     - Mary Grow, Morristown, NJ, Dec. 14, 1998
      
128. "Thank you, David, for all the opportunities you give poets to share their work.  I've really enjoyed every opportunity that I've been able to attend."
     - Barbara R. Williams-Hubbard, Clifton, NJ, Dec. 29, 1998
      
129. "I always appreciate the comments and suggestions from you guys... and while I'm at it, the witch hunt edition was FANTASTIC!  The poems were so far superior ..."
     - Sara Claytor, Chapel Hill, NC, Jan. 8, 1999
      
130. "The issue of Sensations you sent - the one about Coney Island - is really a beautiful work of art.  We really appreciate it - you obviously put your heart into creating something that good."
     - James Behrens, Monastery of the Holy Sprit, Conyers, GA, Jan. 12, 1999
      
131. "Dear David and Mary DeBow - Lordy!  Lordy!  It's heart attack time!!! I got your message, check, poetry critiques, etc. today as I was on my way to sell awnings.  I may have dropped a pound off one knee cap!  I am delighted!!! ... Thank you, Mary, for a hot pen ... thank you again for honest, to the bone critiques."
     - Sara Claytor, Chapel Hill, NC, Feb. 23, 1999
      
132. "I like the format of the feedback process.  It's a lesson on poetry criticism in itself!  Actually, I found it to be constructive and clear."
     - Mauro F. Bruno, Pine Bush, NY, Feb. 23, 1999
      
133. "The kind of feedback you and your editors give is truly invaluable, suggestions a writer can work with."
     - Jacqueline de Weever, Brooklyn, NY, March 1, 1999
      
134. "I am more than grateful, also, for the suggestions both of you made on the other two poems I submitted.  I feel that these ideas will help those poems to be much stronger at some point.  I think of suggestions like that from editors and publisher as running a very close second to publication itself.  I appreciate the time and energy you spent in going over them ... my thanks again for your careful reading of my poems (please thank Mary for me)."
     Jeff Lovejoy, Bangor, ME, March 4, 1999
      
135. "May I take the opportunity to express my pleasure at your involved and detailed comments, the pleasure doubled by getting at the same time a male and female point of view.  In the poem you and Mary chose for the final selection I feel I am writing as close to the cutting edge of where ambiguity ends and clarity begins as is possible within my own powers of control over the poetic idiom.  Your recognition of the poem's value constitutes a significant achievement for me."
     - Rena Navon, Haifa, Israel, March 15, 1999
      
136. "I am a great fan of your magazine and I find your combination of history and contemporary literature most unique.  I would be honored to see my own poetry premiering in it.  I am seventeen years old and have never been published, but I am confident that through my persistence and the help of supportive editors and readers I will successfully launch a career in the writing world."
     - Anatte Kormendi, Great Neck, NY, April 1, 1999
      
137. "I am honored to be published in your Summer 1999 issue, and I thank you for this wonderful opportunity.  Sensations Magazine is a great publication for me to be getting my start in and I am grateful for this honorable recognition."
     - Chan S. Ricord, Creswell, NC, July 20, 1999
      
138. "A great issue also.  Everyone who sees it comments about its overall quality.  Thank you and Mary and others for your comments and suggestions."
     - Sara Claytor, Carrboro, NC, on Issue 19, July 28, 1999
      
139. "Phyllis and I are most elated with the lovely coverage you gave our book on page 219 in your magazine.  It is wonderful and for the book cover to be in color ... the review is very much appreciated.  It will greatly help us in publicity on the book."
     - Pat Apple, co-author, Spinning Straw, Graham, NC, Aug. 1, 1999
      
140. "I was checking out the profiles in the 1999 Poet's Market and came to yours.  Almost peed my pants from laughing so hard!  Sounds like we're quite the match ... you're throwing hexes on writers who don't follow rules and I'm threatening Montana ranchers (in their largest agricultural publication) with the wolf totem at my side who has often been highly visible to other people, while announcing on the biggest radio station in North Alabama that I've gotten engaged to a Filipino witch doctor.  Would you please send writer's guidelines.  I think you may be another editor I can work with.  I love a sense of humor and quick wit."
     - Alicia Karen Elkins, Pisgah, AL, April 30, 1999
      
141. "I pray you weren't offended when I initially (& quite innocently) inquired if $30 was for a single issue of Sensations Magazine.  Today I received my first issue.  Allow me to add it was wonderfully produced, extremely pleasurable to read, and the damn best $30 I've ever spent!"
     - Dr. Leonardo Alishan, Salt Lake City, UT, July 17, 1999
     (NOTE:  The issue was $30 because it was 250 pages long, including front and interior color pages.)
      
142. "Again - major kudos on how great the magazine looks - whoa!"
     - Marilyn Hartl, Los Angeles, CA, July 1999
      
143. "Loved Issue 19.  Really interesting work."
     - John O'Brien, Somerville, MA, Aug. 27, 1999
      
144. "I was pleasantly shocked to see my name in Poet's Market!"
     - Jacqueline de Weever, Brooklyn, NY, Sept. 15, 1999
      
145. "I am impressed with what I've read about Sensations Magazine.  It must have been extremely difficult to self-publish 19 issues in 13 years without grant funding, and to win the American Literary Magazine Awards three times, as well ... Very few of America's literary magazines still offer fiction writers the opportunity to publish stories up to 35 pages long.  I commend you for investing so much of your personal time to ensure that writers such as myself have the opportunity to be published."
     - Arnold L. Miller, Ph.D., Champaign, IL, Nov. 1, 1999
      
146. "Best wishes on your continued expansions.  Sorry, I have nothing about scenic New Jersey.  My recent 'scenics' were in Papua New Guinea, Antarctica, Fiji, and Tahaiti, and March will find us in Greece and Egypt."
     - Daniel Green, Sarasota, FL, Nov. 20, 1999
      
147. "You may be pleased to know that yours truly and Sensations Magazine appear in the Marquis Who's Who International Edition 1999."
     - Frank Finney, Thammasat University, Bangkok, Thailand, Nov. 23, 1999
      
148. "I'd appreciate your conveying to Marilyn Hartl and Maggie Reilly Fiction Editors, my appreciation for the patience, professionalism and care they put into reviewing a recent entry I submitted.  I had not expected an individual critique.  I certainly did not expect anyone to think I wrote well.  The opportunity to read a professional critique was exhilarating."
     - Arnold L. Miller, Ph.D., Champaign, IL, March 10, 2000
      
149. "Just a note to say 'thank you' for your generous hospitality and the opportunity to read in the Sensational Poets Series in Centennial Hall - I really enjoyed myself."
     - John O'Brien, Somerville, MA, May 30, 2000
      
150. "I had a chance to look through the Sensations issue 'Scenic New Jersey.'  What a beautiful issue!  I love the photographs and the matching of photos with the poems."
     - Vera Gelvin, Montclair, NJ, June 11, 2000
      
151. "I feel greatly honored to be a part of your beautiful publication on Scenic New Jersey ... it will be shared by many in this area."
     - Jean Fleetwood, Dividing Creek, NJ, June 16, 2000
      
152. "Wow...wanting to hear from 500 poets, now, that's a lotta reading, David.  You are obviously very clear on the publication's artistic/literary mission and I congratulate your dedication."
     - Stephen Kopel, San Francisco, CA, June 19, 2000
      
153. "I understand the deadline for submission was Dec. 30, but a friend of mine, Joe Hammock, encouraged me to send anyway.  He said he recently met you at a reading in Fredericksburg, Virginia at the Sante Fe Restaurant."
     - Xavier Wise, Sumerduck, VA, Jan. 4, 2001
      
154. "It gave me great pleasure to attend your poetry reading at Borders last week.  Besides enjoying your lovely poetry, I greatly appreciated your professionalism in delivering your reading beautifully, with full attention and with feeling."
     - Lillian Leifer, Metuchen, NJ, Jan. 22, 2001
      
155. "I am so thrilled to be accepted by such a beautiful publication, and even more thrilled to see my name on your website as a reader for the Spring 2002 issue release party!  I found your critique of each poem to be very helpful - poets (myself included) tend to get so close to what they write that a discerning, outside reader helps to clear self-perception."
     - Jennifer Tappenden, Kenmore, NY, Feb. 23, 2001
      
156. "Your perceptive and thorough critique, of the poems I submitted for your contest, was well worth the cost of $15.00; and I hope to use your suggestions for improvement."
     - Dorothy J. Stanfill, Fort Myers, FL, Feb. 28, 2001
      
157. "I do very much appreciate the care with which you critique the poems.  It's good to (see) which ones miss completely, (and why), and which are close."
     - Anne Haehl, Lawrence, KS, Feb. 28, 2001
      
158. "A tribute: I salute you, David Messineo, for all the excellent service you have rendered to the literary community and the community at large. The process of reading, judging, and critiquing poems (especially that many poems) can be exhausting and often thankless. I know, having served as an editor at various mags and as a contest judge from time to time. I can only hope that you will be properly recognized and laurel-ed for your efforts AND for your own writing, which no doubt had to be set aside during the reading and production period. Thanks, for everything!"
     - Blair Ewing, Associate Editor, WordWrights, Rockville, MD, Feb. 28, 2001
      
159. "When my poems together with your critique finally arrived in the mail, I could hardly wait to open the envelope.  Inasmuch as this was the first time ever that any of my work was submitted in competition, I was extremely pleased with the option chosen.  You apparently put a great deal of thought into the format of your critique.  I found the suggestions both concise and constructive and very valuable.  As a matter of fact, your encouraging words are enough to make me take myself more seriously!  I appreciate your efforts on behalf of all poets and look forward to receiving my copy of Sensations Magazine to see who made the final cut!"
     - Pearl Seymore, Boynton Beach, FL, March 5, 2001
      
160. "Thank you for your most helpful critiques.  I cheerfully acknowledge that you are unusual in your diligence and succinct responses to each poem.  I cannot imagine making individual judgments (critiques) on 400+ poems.  My hat is off to you."
     - John Graham-Pole, Gainesville, FL, March 7, 2001
      
161. "I've been invited to read my Pushcart winner at several readings--Barnes & Noble, Borders, etc. in Chicago, Evanston and Naperville in May.  I hope Sensations will be here by then so I can read from that as well."
     - Pushcart Prize winner Glenna Holloway, Naperville, IL, Mar. 18, 2001
      
162. "I especially appreciate your having taken the time to give me such a thorough critical review of all five poems submitted, and for making such detailed comment and helpful recommendations for their improvement.  Constructive criticism such as you gave is difficult to obtain from an expert, and your having taken the time to review and comment on every poem is a valuable service to amateur poets."
     - William O. Laningham, Houston, TX, April 2, 2001
      
163. "Issue #22 Summer 01 sounds fantastic.  Pls send ASAP - I can use it for an upcoming sermon."
     - Barbara Meyerson, Ringwood, NJ, June 3, 2001
      
164. "I really enjoyed the Witchhunt edition.  Brilliant."
     - Mars Caulton, Chicago, IL, July 18, 2001
      
165. "I met you when you were on tour in Springville, Utah ... I'm gratified to see that two of my poems are to be published in your magazine this year."
     - Vicki Wheeler, Las Vegas, NV, July 20, 2001
      
166. "I only have one copy of Sensations, but it would truly be a pleasure to have a part in something so beautiful.  I hope you will continue to publish it.  The magazine is truly a joy to read."
     - Daria Zelenina, Pittsburgh, PA, July 27, 2001
      
167. "I want to thank you for publishing something of mine in the next summer issue (2002) and congratulations on your successful trip.  It was a real pleasure to meet you at M. Coffee in Half Moon Bay.  I've been back twice.  I hope you've gotten some rest."
     - Eleanor W. Joy, San Mateo, CA, Oct. 3, 2001
      
168. "I just received your Issue 23 of Sensations Magazine in which my science fiction story 'Welcome to Hell' was published.  I was thrilled to see my story in print."
     - Terry Westra, Oakhurst, CA, Oct. 24, 2001
      
169. "I first want to say that the magazine was great.  Seeing my work in print was everything I'd hoped it would be.  I have a few friends who are interested in having their own copy of this issue.  When I placed the order for just 5 to be sent to me, I had no idea I might need more."
     - Mark Bailey, Horner, WV, Nov. 1, 2001
      
170. "I'm really looking forward to learning!"
     - Galen Strazza, Rockaway, NJ, on the Writer's Retreat, Nov. 13, 2001
      
171. "I wanted to write and say thank you for the opportunity that Sensations is offering us as young poets.  When I first started writing I found it difficult to find book publishers or magazine editors that were interested in taking young people's works and publishing them ... it is people like yourself, believers in the talent that young people have, that make it possible for others to read our work.  I wanted to let you know that we're all very grateful for your help."
     - Walter F. Rodriguez, Dover, NJ, 2001
      
172. "Thank you again for being our feature poet for National Poetry Month. We had 40 people listening in and purchasing items in our cafe, we sold some copies of your Coney Island issue - and we're nowhere near Coney Island! We're surprised - and very, very pleased. Come back anytime."
     - A Borders representative, name withheld due to corporate policy, April 2002
      
173. "I brought it (The Coney Island Issue) down to Florida last week and presented it to my family there - all transplanted New Yorkers.  They loved it!"
     - Stephen L. Macy, New Brunswick, NJ, April 10, 2002
      
174. "I am pleasantly surprised to learn that my story 'Farewell Bridal Veil' will be appearing in the Fall 2002 Science Fiction issue of Sensations.  I don't know if you remember meeting me at the Dodge Poetry Festival back in 2000, but after reading the magazine, I thought it was a really great read and thought I'd try sending in some short fiction."
     - Rex DePaola, Hackettstown, NJ, May 3, 2002
      
175. "I did wish to thank you for your invaluable criticism and encouragement.  It is so rare to receive such helpful comments (or, indeed, any comments!) on submitted work."
     - Sandra Hunter, Woodland Hills, CA, May 22, 2002
      
176. Sensations get better and better - and those marvelous photos!"
     - Moira Bailis, Fort Lee, NJ, June 4, 2002
      
177. "We did have a lovely setting and a very good reading."
     - Jacqueline de Weever, Brooklyn, NY, June 12, 2002
      
178. "A friend in Madison, Wisconsin sent me information about your Best Newcomer Contest after she met you, your work, and your magazine there.  (She was impressed.)"
     - Lynne Burgess, Holmen, WI, Aug. 28, 2002
      
179. "I went to your web site, lots of interesting stuff.  I look forward to checking it out in detail ... I wish you great success with all your endeavors, which seems unnecessary based on the success of your efforts to date."
     - Faith E. Vicinanza, Newtown, CT, Sept. 10, 2002
      
180. "I received my copy of Sensations Magazine, and I wanted to write and tell you that I am really enjoying it.  I am pleased and proud that my work is represented in the magazine.  I trust that your fifteenth anniversary event went well, and send my best wishes for your current endeavors ... Thank you again for a wonderful publication."
     - Kerri Habben, Raleigh, NC, Dec. 1, 2002
      
181. "I admire your journal's emphasis on evocative poetry - especially 'Dreamers' by Moira Bailis."
     - Michelle Yaney, Madison, NJ, Dec. 3, 2002
      
182. "Thank you for giving me the opportunity to write and send you some more stories.  Your letter came at a time when I needed some encouragement to keep trying to improve and grow as a writer.  As a matter of fact, I've often wanted to try my hand at historical fiction and now I have a chance to do just that."
     - Dan Tierney, New York, NY, Dec. 11, 2002
      
183. "This is to thank you for all you do for the group.  The weekend was, for me, very productive."
     - Jacqueline de Weever, Brooklyn, NY, Feb. 25, 2003
      
184. "Enjoying the Allergies issue in between all our personal sneezing."
     - Suzanne Gili-Post, Delran, NJ, May 20, 2003
      
185. "First, thanks to you, Marilyn Hartl, and Paul Nash for incisive comments about my story and for the rewrite suggestions."
     - Arnold L. Miller, Ph.D., Champaign, IL, July 11, 2003
      
186. "Again, thanks for publishing my story in your excellent magazine."
     - Mark Lyons, Philadelphia, PA, Summer 2003
      
187. "I wished to take the opportunity to thank you for your encouragement.  There are few editors who take the time to speak personally to writers and I do appreciate it."
     - Sandra Hunter, Woodland Hills, CA, Oct. 28, 2003
      
188. "I found the comments by Marilyn Hartl and Paul Nash to be extremely helpful for all of the stories submitted."
     - Diana E. Sheets, Champaign, IL, Oct. 30, 2003
      
189. "Bravo!  A massive editorial success.  Best ever."
     - Daniel Green, Sarasota, FL, on Issue 31, Fall 2003 "America at War, Part 2:  World Power, 1898 to Present," Dec. 29, 2003
      
190. "I've just now read 'America at War' and am overwhelmed by your tremendous moral courage in your coverage of the Spanish-American War and other wars in which we were involved.  Bravo."
     - Moira Bailis, Fort Lee, NJ, Dec. 30, 2003
      
191. "Sensations Magazine, Part Two of America at War is a very good collection of writing.  I like it best of all your magazines so far that I've seen.  Congratulations!"
     - Doris C. Baker, Virginia Beach, VA, Jan. 4, 2004
      
192. "Bush really needs to attend to government business, not the private lives of its citizens."
     - One reader's reaction to "America at War, Part 2," Feb. 26, 2004
      
193. "And also want to tell you, the review in Sensations Magazine, along with a good one in the Virginia Gazette were, I'm sure, the basis for a reading/signing in the Williamsburg Library Theater March 5th and another here in a Virginia Beach library March 18th.  You had such a good understanding of what my book is about and I appreciate your perception."
     - Doris C. Baker, Virginia Beach, VA, Feb. 29, 2004
      
194. "I am thrilled that you are publishing my poem ' A Taxi Driver's Die Gotterdammerung.'  September 11 was such a harrowing time in all of our memories, and I am grateful that I was able to express my feelings through this poem about my experience on that day.  I appreciate your kind words about the poem."
     - Davidson Garrett, New York, NY, April 12, 2004
      
195. "I have enjoyed very much reading the work you've published in Sensations.  Your magazine is, indeed, beautiful in all respects."
     - Velma Jean Reeb, New York, NY, Sept. 14, 2004
      
196. "Dear Marilyn - Your thoughtful comments concerning my story 'Then What Happens?' very very appreciated.  I have been rewriting, correcting many areas and resetting time-lines.  Your notes have inspired me to keep working.  When I am finished, I will take your advice and hire a professional proofreader to go through my final manuscript."
     - Penny Mont, Seabrook, SC, Oct. 12, 2004
      
197. "My Sensations issues arrived yesterday and I must tell you that they are really beautiful.  The pictures are great and I can't wait to read all the poets and writers you have assembled."
     - Davidson Garrett, New York, NY, 2005
      
198. "The only word I can think of is 'WOW' .......... what a great 2 issues ........ just got them today after they wallowed in Florida and came back to N.J.  David, they are just beautiful............will read them from cover to cover.  Congratulations............"
     - Gilda Kreuter, Delray Beach, FL, 2005 (on the Spring and Summer 2005 issues)
      
199. "Everything looks wonderfully represented on the website, a real class act.  Very informative too.  I see your zeal for historical documentation has not waned in the least! . . . You've really kept with it and built this into something you can be proud of.  Excellent indeed.  I look forward to seeing you again and sharing our creativity once again."
     - Andrew Kopycinski, Bayonne, NJ, 2005
      
200. Just got the Spring 2005 issue of Sensations Magazine where my story 'Embers' appears.  It's a great issue!!!!  Wonderful cover.  I always enjoy reading the poetry (yours and others)--sometimes even more than the fiction.  Loved your 'Doorway to Spring' photograph.  I'm looking forward to when your 2004 Presidential Election issue comes out.  That should make for some interesting reading."
     - Diana E. Sheets, Mystic, CT, 2005
      
201. "Just received my copy of the Fall 2005 supplement on 'The 2004 Presidential Election, One Year Later.'  We need to have a little, ah, meeting ..."
     - George W. Bush, Washington, DC, undated
      
202. "Finally had time to take a good look at your site.  I am practically speechless! !  The photographs are w o n d e r f u l.  Can't imagine how you found time to post all of them.  What a proud history Sensations has!  I can't think of another publication that offers such a fascinating journey.  Not to mention the quality and variety of creative work that is represented.  So much work involved . . . and as always, I am impressed with your organizational skills.  Way you catalogued correspondence . . . much-deserved kudos."
     - Phyllis Jean Green, Chapel Hill, NC, March 9, 2006
      
203. "A Sensational Event! You are to be congratulated for the conception (Retro issue and Event) and for getting such a high caliber of poets and work in one place.  Cheers!!  I'm enjoying reading Retro."
     - Vera Gelvin, Montclair, NJ, January 14, 2007
      
204. "That was a most wonderful poetry event Saturday! Thanks for inviting me! You do so much for poets and for poetry here in this area, keeping a community together, introducing new poets all the time, and, of course, performing your own work. Some of the people who read the other day who I never heard before were amazing to me, and it thrilled me to hear again people whose work I've come to treasure. Thanks so much, David, for serving the role you do."
     - Vicki Moss, Yonkers, NY, January 15, 2007
      
205. "There's not another lit mag like Sensations.  You're very exceptional.  The fact that Writer's Digest Novel & Short Story Writer's Market and Duotrope.com don't list you is wrong and offensive.  Many listed mags depend mainly on contests with fees, with limited general submissions, or give subscribers first priority in reading...I'm guessing that very soon more mags will be imposing fees, if for no other reason that to deter the huge numbers of writers simultaneously submitting junk.  One editor of a leading mag I know said it's getting 200 submissions a week.  They're all overwhelmed, it's going to get worse, and something's going to have to give.  Your model makes sense, and I'm betting we'll see others following your lead soon."
     - Philip T. Carter, Sanibel, FL, March 3, 2007
      
206. "I really enjoyed reading the last issue of your magazine.  The poems you selected were very strong and meaningful.  The effect they have on the reader is great.  I was moved by the brilliant collection you selected for this issue."
     - Sarah Rea, Des Moines, Iowa, October 1, 2007
      

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