"If you're like me you long for the crisp days of fall with the aroma of decaying leaves, the rush of a grouse flush and the ballet of the woodcock rise. We are for the most part a solitary group, a minority if you wish, disciples of uncivilized places and wild birds"

We are fast approaching the one-year anniversary of the launching of Upland Journal-Online Magazine. I'm gratified that Upland Journal has fulfilled a lot of my goals and visions. We currently boast a growing compilation of original Feature Stories, Photo Galleries filled with photos from visitors and members, a vast resource of Links on Upland Info, an Upland Outfitters page with ads and reviews, Upland Library featuring the best in bird hunting literature and a comprehensive classified ad section on Swap & Trade.

The heart-and-soul of Upland Journal is without a doubt the Upland Talk Bulletin Board. To date we have close to 600 registered members and countless Guests. This active and vibrant board is fast becoming known as THE place to share knowledge, gain information, meet other earnest upland bird hunters and just plain shoot the breeze. It's been compared to a bird hunting camp or the old General Store where the bird hunters met at the end of the day around the wood stove to share experiences and tell tall tales. It's a rare and unique meeting place and I'm fiercely protective of it and the well being of its members.

I've learned a lot over the last year about running a website and have met some great folks both here on-site and face-to-face. One lesson I've learned is how hard it is to create a site that can pay for it’s presence on the web. That's why I asked for voluntary Subscription /Donations for 2003.

I’d like to add new sections like "Ask the Vet", "Ask the Dog Trainer", "Current Upland News" and maybe a section for additional original short stories and essays. I'm planning an Upland Store where you'll be able to purchase caps with the UJ logo, UJ Decals, an Upland Journal Calendar featuring photos sent in by Members of the Upland Talk Bulletin Board, notepads/envelopes printed with sporting art, hunting journals, hunting gear like whistles, vests, chaps, shell belts and dog supplies.

The sky is the limit and I thank all of those who have participated on and supported Upland Journal in the past year. Without all of you this would be just a barren Covert drifting in cyberspace.

Brad Eden
Publisher, Editor & Art Director
Upland Journal-Online Magazine