An open letter to Randy Sanders, Editor, Lubbock Avalanche-Journal.

Randy,

My morning routine for the last eight years, regardless of whether I was in Lubbock or not, has included reading the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal online at LubbockOnline.com. That's come to an end. Starting later today, the A-J will require its visitors to register before reading any stories. I won't be one of them.

I don't register to read free content, but I was willing to make an exception for the A-J. Well, I was willing until I read your "Anti-Spam Pledge" wherein you state you will send me "e-mail announcements…on new products, offers and services from the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal and selected advertisers and affiliates." Your Anti-Spam Pledge is a pledge to spam me. Nice.

Now I'm realistic. I know you won't change your mind just because I don't like your registration policy. You've swallowed the Kool-Aid and will simply have to work your way through this experiment on your own. But I've worked with you in the past and have a special place in my heart for the A-J. I know I won't be missed, but you will be.

Take care.