It's so exciting to see the many inroads that advanced ceramics are making into applications that range from the seemingly mundane to impressively high-tech. This issue is chock-full of articles on topics such as the use of silicon carbide in a templated growth graphene fabrication technique ("SiC Template for Graphene Fabrication"), a new method of studying solid oxide fuel cells (Fuel Cells in Operation: A Closer Look"), a new zirconia-based coating for carbon composite bicycle wheels ("A Better Bike Ride"), plus much more.

We're thrilled to celebrate this vital segment of the industry with a new e-newsletter. Debuting February 2011, Advanced Ceramics & Glasses Digest will provide a roundup of news and issues related to the advanced ceramics and glasses sector. Each issue will feature the latest company news, personnel announcements, new technologies, merger and acquisition details, market forecasts, and more. Features and case study articles will also be included. To subscribe to this free e-newsletter, go to www.ceramicindustry.com.

The December issue also features our fourth annual Services Directory and Business Guide. The Address Index includes complete supplier contact information and a brief description of the services offered by each company, while the handy chart-style listings specify each service provider's area(s) of expertise.* In addition, the Business Guide includes articles on the R&D tax credit ("Maximizing the R&D Tax Credit"), the potential benefits of working with a consultant ("Changing the Direction of Your Company") and supply chain management ("Maneuverable Manufacturing").

Announcement

It's with great pleasure that I announce that Amy Vallance has been named publisher of Ceramic Industry. Amy has served as a regional sales manager for CI for many years, and will continue to cover the Midwest/West/Western South U.S./Western Canada territory.

Please join me in congratulating Amy on her new position. She can be reached at (865) 938-2636 or vallancea@bnpmedia.com.