Diamondback to End Century-plus Print Run

It was with great sadness that I read about the discontinuation of the printed copy of The Diamondback.

When my husband and I were students at Maryland, the newspaper was published daily, except maybe on weekends. I remember cutting out pictures and articles to send home or display on my dorm room wall or door. I recall pics of Vietnam War protests, articles with never-ending complaints about dining hall food, coverage of concerts and political rallies, photos of our sports teams, no-holds-barred letters to the editor, clever cartoons, quirky personal ads and ads for the stores and restaurants in the College Park area. One of our favorite ads was the frequently-run “Buck Off” coupons for Emersons restaurant.

I understand that today’s students are living in a digital world, and it has become necessary to make changes. However, in 1972, the photo I’ve attached (right) was a fold-out from an issue of The Diamondback, and it could be seen on the doors of many dorm rooms and in windows and bulletin boards throughout the campus. The power of the printed word—and photo—can never be replaced.

Vickie Martin Layton ’75, Williamsport, Md.

I read with sadness and understanding in the latest edition of Terp magazine the decision of The Diamondback to end its print edition.

As a member of The Diamondback’s sports staff in the late 1960s and early 1970s, I remember being told that we had a circulation of 35,000 and published five days a week. I have forgotten names but remember so many of the faces of my co-workers.

I also remember the drives from campus in the evenings to the print shop in Silver Spring to put out the paper.

The Diamondback taught me well. It used its lessons in my 37-year career as a sports journalist. At the end, I consider The Diamondback the best newspaper I worked for.

I know The Diamondback will be online, but there is something to be said for holding a newspaper in your hands.

Steve Sigafoose ’72, Council Bluffs, Iowa

Growing Beyond Meat

I’m not sure I need a lab-grown alternative to meat, but I know the sustainability of meat production is not sustainable: myhomefarm.co.uk/sustainability-of-eating-meat.

It takes 7,000 liters of water and 3kg of feed to produce a 500g steak. That’s just crazy. We’ve largely removed meat from our diets, and things like beans and lentils act as great taste and texture replacements for meat and mince.

Mars Mlodzinski via Terp online

Oh, the Places You’ll Sniff!

Terps Raising Pups—what a wonderful program. Didn’t know it has been in existence for a while. I loved Terp’s diary. He is a pretty good writer.

Barb Criscouli via Terp online