Hello there!

I think that's a pretty easy way of introducing myself to the American Agriculturist world.

By now, especially if you read the August issue, you should know a little about me already. But for those who need a refresher, here it goes.

First off, I'm not a farmer, nor did I grow up on a farm.

I have three children, all boys, am married and I live in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania.

My wife grew up on a farm, a small farm in Berks County, so that's my only personal connection to the agricultural world.

Oh, and my office is in my basement.

OK, I know. You might be thinking, "Why is this guy who didn't grow up on a farm writing about agriculture?"

It's simple: I love the business and the people.

I've spent the last 12 years writing about agriculture for the nation's second-largest agricultural newspaper. In those years, I've learned more about agriculture and farmers than I ever knew growing up.

I've never been shy about asking questions at the risk of sounding like a fool. I learned a long time ago that there are no dumb questions, something that has suited me well as a news person.

If I sound like a fool, so be it. But if that's what it takes to develop American Agriculturist into the premier news and information source for agriculture in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, then that's what I'll do.

And that's my pledge to all of you, the loyal readers of this great magazine. I pledge to put my heart and soul into creating a product that you will depend on for getting the latest in agricultural news, insight and other information.

I have big shoes to fill. John Vogel has not only been the editor of this publication for many years — he still looks like he could go on for about another 20 years — he's become a beloved part of the agricultural community.

John has been helping me in this transition, and I wish he and his family all the best. If you haven't gotten a chance to say bye to John, please do so.

At the same time, feel free to say hello to me. I appreciate all feedback from my readers, and I'm always open to learning new things about the business.

So, what can you expect from me? My last editor always said, "evolution, not revolution."

While I plan to put my mark on American Agriculturist, I respect what the readers have come to enjoy about the publication. So, you might see some subtle changes to stories and columns — notice that I've changed the name of this column — at least at first.

But rather than assuming what the readers will like, I'd like to hear from you on what you want to read. Feel free to contact me at [email protected] or call me at 717-673-8862. You can also write to me at Christian Torres, P.0. Box 734, Richland, PA  17087.

It's going to be an interesting journey, so please be patient, be kind and always know that I have your interests first.