I received a beautifully written letter from a Mrs. Helen Titone in response to my April 7 column on "Jerry Ginsburg Esq". Mrs. Titone lives in Floral Park and I did not know that my column appeared in that area of Nassau County.

Her letter made me happy and angry simultaneously. Very few people take the time to write in reply to what they read in our newspaper. From my vantage point, it is like tossing words into a "Black Abyss." I don't know if I am whistling in the dark or I have touched people so thoroughly that they are too stunned to pick up a pen.

Everything I say isn't gospel!

Disagree with me!

Say something!

Only my pal from Hicksville, Nick Graziose, gives me a weekly review and commentary on my scribbling. He is a tough critic, but he is vocal.

We at the Syosset-Jericho Tribune are fortunate to have a new editor, Denise D'Alessandro. She is bright and energetic. Recently a graduate of C.W. Post, she has been here for four months and she has received no letters to the editor, good or bad.

"Denise's thoughts" in her own words:

"I would rather hear ten negative comments than hear nothing at all. By hearing comments, I can make adjustments and understand my readers. Any feedback is good. At least I know people are reading."

"Positive feedback is nice, but negative feedback makes one stronger."

"It is nice to know that people are listening even if they don't agree with me."

Well said Denise!

Our past editor Brad Barth was a prize-winning journalist. He suffered because of lack of feedback. He searched out murder stories, bodies in barrels, human interest and sports stories to name a few, but he never received any significant commentary from his readership.

I know I have been accused of often "fishing for a compliment" or a "pat on the back," but this is a different matter.

There are vital community issues going on all around us: The Underhill Property, Cerro Wire, SUNY Old Westbury.

Where are you?

Write a letter to the editor.

Write a letter to a columnist.

Just write!

Send letters to: Syosset Jericho Tribune; 132 East Second Street, Mineola, NY 11501.

E-mail accepted at shgreenbug@aol.com or by Denise at d_dalessandro@antonnews.com

PS Thank you Mrs. Titone, on behalf of a wonderful newspaper that is lovingly and carefully put together every week.