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2014 Atlantic Journalism Awards Finalists

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Dreams Float By Mike Landry In this age of multi-tasking and 24-7 internet access and 500 TV channels and constant music flowing through tiny ear buds and the loss of social intercourse to solo gadgets, and all of the associated din and stress—Saltscapes consistently presents to its readers a poignant reminder that life need not be like that if you chose. Showcasing local enterprise, particularly of the traditional variety, is an essential element of the Saltscapes editorial mandate. By reminding ourselves where we came from, we can better assess where we are going—and consider whether we really want to go there. The trick here was in painstakingly seeking out the profile candidate (invariably a reluctant introvert in need of gentle persuasion to overcome shyness) whose demeanor, history and character tick all the boxes. A craftsman who, in the 21st century, eschews power tools epitomizes patience and the fading ethic of taking the time and making the effort to do it right. Harry Bryan, a man who appears to move with all the urgency of a tortoise, is surely a perfect profile candidate to exemplify that a slower, more traditional, liveable pace, might just be a happier and healthier approach to life. At first glance, such profiles may appear to be sugary fluff pieces—but on closer intellectual inspection we might ask if some portion of our readership is moved to more cautiously consider lifestyle choices, we might ask if we have not accomplished something significant… As opposed to reporting what some politician said yesterday that will be forgotten tomorrow. We might argue that a good personal profile uses the subject to inspire and influence the thinking others—otherwise what is the point? We believe this is a very sound example of how it should be done.

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