Dear Colleagues, The future of The Monachus Guardian is unfortunately in doubt following our failure -- at least, so far -- to attract necessary funding to continue publishing the journal. This having been said, we are determined to keep the web site operating and (time permitting) to publish news from the monk seal world on at least a biannual basis. In that spirit, a much abbreviated November 2005 issue of The Monachus Guardian will be published, consisting only of the most urgent International / Mediterranean / Hawaiian / and Caribbean news, Letters to the Editor, a listing of Recent Publications, and contributions of PDF papers, reports etc. to the Monk Seal Library. We would therefore be grateful if you could send us your relevant contributions for these various sections of the journal and web site at the earliest opportunity. Our deadline for submissions is 30 October. Any leads on possible funding avenues that might keep The Monachus Guardian alive and kicking would, of course, be gratefully received. A document detailing sponsorship opportunities and benefits is available to potential supporters -- please contact us for further information. Due in no small part to the network of correspondents who have submitted news, opinion, scientific papers etc over the years, The Monachus Guardian has built up a real readership base of at least 30,000 people -- including students, teachers, researchers, journalists etc. Realising the significance of this achievement, we are doing whatever we can to continue publishing, and we take this opportunity of thanking all of you who have voiced support for the project. As usual, we look forward to hearing from you. William M. Johnson editor@monachus-guardian.org The Monachus Guardian, Library and Network can be accessed at the following address: <http://www.monachus-guardian.org> _______________________________________ William M Johnson editor@monachus-guardian.org http://www.monachus-guardian.org http://www.iridescent-publishing.com _______________________________________