From the Mailbag...
May, 2012
“What a joy to receive your latest 'award winners' “Cherry Blossoms” and “William H. Johnson.” There is nothing you have not covered in what I enjoy about cachets. Your command of color blending is remarkable. The ideas you bring to life on your cachets must be the envy of cachet makers. I am glad to be a customer rather than a competitor! Don’t you dare change a thing.” – HD ☺☺☺
April, 2012
The following are some of the responses to the news that two of my FDCs for the Owney the Postal Dog stamp have been selected by the SMITHSONIAN National Postal Museum:
"So nice." -- Carol
"Congratulations!!! We are bursting at the seams with pride on your 2 Owney covers being included in the Smithsonian museum!!!! Wow, wow, wow! "If you think it, it will be" I thought it and hoped for you!! Wonderful!!!!We're all so proud!!!!!!!!!! -- Iris and Pat
"Congratulations Grandma! I'm so proud of you and all your fantastic work. Now everyone who goes to visit there will get to see how beautiful your artwork is! I'm going to tell everyone that I have a famous Grandma now :) ... "Congratulations -- That's so cool!" -- Sheryl and Pablo
"Congratulations!! We'll make it a point to go see it." -- Brian and Mary Beth
"Congratulations, Grandma! That's such an honor! I'll definitely want to go and see the exhibit." -- Laura
"Wow, gram that's awesome!! How exciting! Congrats!!:) "What an honor for you! Congratulations!" -- Stacy and Dawn
"Congratulations! How wonderful for you to have been selected for this great honor! I'm so proud of your achievement! You're a very accomplished artist that deserves this recognition for the dedication and devotion you've paid to your craft over these many years. Once again, Congratulations Doris." -- Bruce
"Congratulations! How wonderful to have had your work selected by the Smithsonian Postal Museum.. That is quite an honor. We will be watching their Arago site for your "Owney" Stamp covers. You must be very proud...and rightly so. If your other covers we have seen are any indication, the Owney covers must be outstanding...can't wait to see them. Again, Congratulations." -- Diane & Bob
"Congratulations on you being honored by the Smithonian. You very much deserve it." -- Vernon Kahn
"This is wonderful news! Congratulations! I look forward to seeing the exhibit." -- Denise
"Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!How very exciting! Thanks for sharing the good news!" -- Linda
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March, 2012
“Received your latest covers (Danny Thomas and Love) and both were in keeping with high standards that are a hallmark of your covers. Although I appreciate those little extras attached tothe covers, I am still enthralled by your distinctive and artistic rendering of each cover you make. I recently reviewed your covers from your first (Sc 1710) to the above and how interesting it was to see the evolution of a truly creative genius in the art of cover design – so keep on going!” – BWS
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"Your timing is always great -- when I need a fix, guess what I get in the mail! (FDCs) -- HD
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From USPS cancellation services: “I've seen articles on your covers. It is an honor to service them for you.” – BB
******************* “... Your “Year of the Dragon” cover was fantastic and beautiful.
Everyone I’ve shown it to has repeatedly said, “WOW!” In my opinion it’s way up there with your best ever achievements.” – KB
****************** “I knew Danny Thomas personally, and not only did you capture
his likeness, but the goodness of the man was also apparent. This is the best thing you ever did!!!” – PP
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!! !!August, 2011 RE: 2010 AFDCS AWARDS
“For once, I can find no fault with the judges! I haven't kept count, but I believe that you have more wins over the years than anyone else. I'm proud to know you, and prouder to have your covers in my albums.” ...“I note through the years that I have been watching that winners come and go. This year was no exception. But I don't believe that anyone can touch your record for continuing wins over time. As I have noted many times before, your work gets better and better, while so many cachetmakers experience burnout or leave the field.”– JAD
******** “I just checked out the (Awards) site! WOW. 4 winners!!
Have you ever had so many awards in a single year?? Congratulations!!! So proud of you and your continued work and effort.” –SC
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March, 2012
Hi Mom, I was just able to take some time to look at the Owney cover and read the inserts. I believe it isn’t until one takes the time to read the inserts, one can actually appreciate all the work that goes into each and every one of your covers. I really appreciate all the time you take to research the stamp subject. The information, history and stories included in your inserts truly make your covers come to life!! Your covers are educational, as well as beautiful works of art. I love the detail and colors of Owney’s special harness with all his medals. The yellow color background is soft and warm. Owney is such a precious dog with a heartwarming story and your depiction of him is fantastic. The postal clerks and mailbag on the cover round out the cachet. I believe this cover and cachet is one of my very favorites, as our pets are truly our “Forever” friends. I am so proud of you and all of your work over the years. I am lucky to have an award winning MOM, who has been recognized and admired by numerous First Day Cover collectors and the American First Day Cover Society. I am a number One Fan, who has seen your talent grow from your early days of painting murals on walls, to 3-D collages, sewing, knitting, decorating, finishing wood furniture among other things, and First Day Cover cachets. Your artistic talents over the years are numerous, but nothing can compare to the dedicated, loving, caring, patient, understanding, kind, and decent human being and Mom you have been over the years. Though we live thousands of miles away, you are and always have been there for me- as you are only a telephone call or an e-mail away. Your loving daughter and admirer, Iris
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An in-depth article, 'A Tribute to Doris Gold' appears in the July 15 issue of the American First Day Cover Society Journal, First Days, on pp 62-67.!July/August, 2011
“I received your Mark Twain FDC and your White Fronted Goose cover. Both are beautiful FDCovers. However, when I looked at the details of the White Fronted Goose, I got the “Goose Bumps.” I immediately ate some “Goose Berries” and did some “Goose Steps” and the “Goose Bumps” disappeared.” ☺☺☺ “I received your federal duck cover today, and it is beautiful! It is one of your best! I will be looking forward to the one for next year.” EC “We were delighted to receive your last three FDCs and it appears you get better with age-- or is it experience?” – A&I E “... As for the covers: What treasures each are! Your main Civil War cover figure is painstakingly accurate, and I was first upset that this soldier wore the blue instead of the gray, but then it would have been painful to see one of our boys barefoot. Your duck cover will rank with the best, and the Boy Scout with binoculars (stamp) is evidence of your characteristic unique ingenuity. And as for the third cover, I only regret that ol' Mark himself is not around to prize it, for that he surely would ... with your covers predominating now, what beauties my most recent albums are!” – JAD “The first day covers (Mark Twain) arrived in fine condition. Thank you.” – HS “What a clever play on words “Jump on the Duck-Twain”read in your latest newsletter. As usual you do not “DUCK” a challenge nor seek in “VAIN” for ideas. The all over treatment in your cachets along with such imaginative art makes me feel you have many more honors on the way. I feel privileged to add what should be award winning cachets of the White Fronted Goose and the Mark Twain covers to my collection.” – HD “Another beautiful Duck in an outstanding series.” – JF "I cannot tell you which I like better; Touchstone in the forest of Arden in “As You Like It” or Shakespeare himself adorned with the truly magnificent lace collar (two hand-painted one-of-a kind add-ons made for the Shakespeare stamp issue." ..."I am delighted that the covers came today because they are just in time for our Club’s March Show and Tell. (I think it only fair that the club get a sneak preview)..." -- AK, Flossmoor, IL
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Thank you, thank you! I love my 1/1 Doris Gold “As You Like It” cachet.
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November, 2010
"As one of the 3,000 people at the Mother Teresa service and First Day Ceremony, thank you for doing an excellent cachet for Mother Theresa." -- FM III
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"The artwork and definition of the stained glass window is unbelievable. The amount of detail you get in such a small space is amazing. And the rendition of Mother Teresa is remarkable." -- NR
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August, 2010
"Looking at your cachet for this issue (Negro Leagues Baseball) almost gave me a whiff of hot dogs, popcorn and peanuts. Did you add a flavor to your paints? By th way, are you sure that is not you leaning over the dugout for a look, or were you just trying to get bubble gum? You again captured the theme of the cachet. Well done!” – HD
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"The Oscar Micheaux, Negro Baseball League, and the 2010 Federal Duck stamps (FDCs) were great additions and what can one say that hasn't already been said by others about their impressiveness. I also continue to find the Newsletter ever interesting and informative, while also providing insight to your creations.
"I do have something to say about the 2010 duck stamp. I have them all and they are a treasured part of my Doris Gold collection. Don't ask me to select a favorite, as each is unique. The last one for the American Wigeon showing the solitary duck is very simple, yet there is the aura of autumn wetland environment with the lowering sun and you can almost sense that the duck is considering the migration south ahead of impending winter. Producing these aura is a hallmark of your covers -- like enigmatic smile on the face of Mona Lisa." -- BS
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July, 2010
"Yesterday's downpour was penetrated by a double ray of sunshine focused on our mailbox, and I just knew that our postman had come and brought an envelope from you! The Micheaux insert is a most credible piece of research, and both covers (Micheaux and 2010 Duck) are outstandingly beautiful.
"I have to comment particularly on your 2010 duck. I have a dedicated album of duck covers, including work by such as Poormon, Lipof, Pugh, Collins, Ham, Dunne, DeRosset, Geerling, and Sue Allen -- but your 2010 duck is not only right at home among these elite fowls, it's glassy eye makes it an appropriate overseer of and superior to the others.." -- JAD
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"Just when I think you can't draw a more beautiful cover, it happens! I love it! Please email me next year, with your 2011 cover. Thank you very much!" -- EC
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"Today's mail was fascinating, beautiful, and educational. I did not know of this man (Oscar Micheaux), and what an inspiring life he had. Thank you for choosing to educate us about him." -- EG
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June, 2010
FROM THE PALM SPRINGS AIR MUSEUM: “We would like to thank you very much for your donation of the Bill Mauldin Firs Day Cover. This has been gratefully added to our museum’s collection. We realize that there are many options when considering a donation and appreciate you choosing the Palm Springs Air Museum.”
"The Palm Springs Air Museum is an exciting tribute to everyone who participated in the aviation success of World War II. It is far more than a collection of airplanes and artifacts, but a very active organization conducting special educational programs throughout the year. Your support benefits both the museum and the community. Best regards,
R. Richard Clark"
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May, 2010
"Your Adopt-a-Pet cover just came in, and were it not for Pegge's allergies, I would be on the way to the animal shelter! I simply cannot conceive of a more appealing set of protraits than those that adorn this beautiful cachet!"-- JD
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April, 2010
"Your YEAR OF THE TIGER IS OUTSTANDING -- JUST LIKE ALL YOUR OTHER Chinese New Year covers." --FEM III
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"Your YEAR OF THE TIGER is a real prize. Ya' know, we see the expression "handcrafted envelope" used quite liberally today. In general it refers to a cachetist who simply folds his/her envelope. However, by adorning your covers with a special gold 'chain,' as you did on this cover, you gave true meaning to the word "handcrafted." Thumbs up! -- RL
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March, 2010
"It looks like my timing was right for ordering the Bette Davis FDC, since it looks like the last one available." -- DE
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"I enjoy looking at (my) collection and noting the changes over the years. Your covers are unusual and show a lot of thought and study goes into them." -- EF
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"Keep up the good work. Your Year of the Tiger is outstanding -- just like all your other Chinese New Year covers." -- FM III
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"When I opened the envelope with your Chinese Lunar 2010 FDC, I didn't know if the tiger was "purring" at me or going to "attack" me. So I built an iron cage with iron bars and put this "Tiger Cachet" behind bars. Now I'm not worried if it will attack me! Great cover; great information; and a wonderful REALISTIC cachet." -- BRO
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January, 2010
“... I have to write to say that your artistry never ceases to amaze me! Your ability to idealize, create, and get the cachets processed is in of itself so incredible, but then you go on to research and compose the enthralling and oh-so-readable article inserts! And, newsletters! Allow me to compliment you over and over...I especially love the biographical cachets -- Gary Cooper (a favorite of my Mom's), Bob Hope (oh, how I miss his kind of humor), and Edgar Allen Poe (favorite since high school). Learning about other customs is so interesting, and I love the wonderful way you always capture nature (Duck stamp). Your capacity for pulling in the essence of your subjects just must be limitless! I send my very best wishes for another successful year and look forward to your future treasures. ” – LK
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August, 2009
When Grandchildren Sheryl and Pablo were in Argentina on vacation, they presented the Libertad Synagogue with my 2006 cachet design in their honor. I received the following e-mail:
B"H
Dear Mrs.Doris Gold:
We had the pleasure to recive your grandchildren who gave us the First Day Issue of the stamp of October 6,2006 ,with the cachet of our synagogue designed by you. We are really proud that our synagogue,the oldest in this country,will be known all over the USA,thanks to your design and text; considering also that we have our Jewish Museum,well known all over the world. We thank you so much,and we ask the Almighty to give you good health and strenght to continue your wonderfull work and we wish you the best for the comming New Year 5710.
Sincerely:
Rabbi Dr.Simón Moguilevsky
(Congregacion Israelita de la Republica Argentina [Libertad])
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July, 2009
“...So, there I was working quietly at my desk when the postman showed up and left a small package from ZIP 91941, now 91942 (a clear indication that La Mesa is growing) which I opened immediately, saw the Bob Hope marquee with the incandescent light bulbs, and nearly dropped unconscious to the floor. As you know, I am one of Broadway's greatest admirers and to see the old world marquee that still exists and to see the incandescent bulbs around and under the marquees that still exist was almost too much for me to bear. It brought back too many GREAT memories too soon. ... Thank you, Doris, for the glorious walk down memory lane. And for the GREAT cachet. You are a marvel of creativity and your cachets are extraordinary.” – SZ
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June, 2009
"I was particularly fond of the Love: King/Queen cover. When my parents were alive, I used to fly up to North Carolina a couple of times per year. Part of each reunion consisted of a couple hours of "friendly" poker. It was one of the many ways we bonded. ... And therein lies the beauty of collecting covers. It’s not just the appreciation of beautiful art, but its treasured memories, as well. ... You definitely dealt a royal flush with that cover. Thanks for the trip down Memory Lane.” – RL
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"I just received your King and Queen of Hearts FDC. Needless to say, I was very disappointed. No, not at your artwork of the FDC, but the non-descriptive and bland looking stamps. I suggest that you send the Post Office your art work before they design any new stamps. Maybe they will incorporate your art work into their postage stamps. ... P.S. I loved your Bob Hope cover with the marquee projecting out on the cover. Too bad I can't turn the lights on when it gets dark! -- BO
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Excerpts from a long letter from one of my collectors:
"I remember sharing with you some of the art from my copy of Johnny Gruele's book Friendly Fairies that my father sent me from Mt.McGreggorHospital in NY in 1930. One of my favorite stories in that book was about a magic chest filled with gold coins, and the chest replenished itself when coins were removed. You have made my mailbox my magic chest, for today I found Touch of Gold covers once again in my mailbox. Thank you for converting my otherwise ordinary postal receptacle into a Gold chest.
What an experience to go aboard the USS Midway -- and to meet two of the Hope children! I have never been aboard that particular carrier, but have gotten lost on others like it. ...
The two covers (King and Queen of Hearts and Bob Hope) have to be among your very best. You capture Hope better than any camera shot, and your king and queen are the romantic figures as I visualized them in childhood -- not the Peyton Place characters we find too frequently among royalty today. Your inserts make these a learning experience as well -- Packy East was new to me. ...
I almost forgot -- the photos in your Hope newsletter are great These add so very much." -- JD
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“Every once in a while, I pull out my entire collection of your work. You continue to impress me with the extent you go to in making your covers really enjoyable to see. I truly do enjoy your artistry, and I look forward to each of your future covers.” – KW
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"As usual your cachets are different – shows a lot of thought goes into them. They are lovely... Still have the cachets your daughter and granddaughter made a few years ago.” – EF
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“Received the King & Queen of Hearts and Bob Hope covers, and as I’ve come to expect of a Doris Gold cover, they were super – always creative and beautifully rendered. Always makes you want to see and possess the next cover(s)... If I’m not a subscriber for the Duck Stamps, then I want to be and I want to ensure that I can receive the 2009 cover – as I have all of them. Thanks, – BJS ☺☺☺
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February, 2009
CACHET APPRECIATION 101
In the 1980's Professor Earl Planty, Dean of Cachetmakers, published a paper which espoused analyzing cachets. He called this Cachet Appreciation. I received a letter from a subscriber recently, which seems to follow along these lines, and I would like to share it in its entirety:
“After I received your latest two covers: Year of the Ox and Edgar Allan Poe, I felt compelled to drop you a quick note. The Year of the Ox was delightful, especially with the addition of the “lights” – always innovative. But it was the Edgar Allan Poe cover that really caused me to stop and write this.
The portrait of Edgar Allan Poe was right on, but as you stated in the Newsletter it was the stark trees against the ‘bleeding’ brown backdrop that gave the cover its aura of mystery. It’s like you are being drawn deeper and deeper into the cover, much like the allure of Poe’s books – into the world of the macabre. Then, the addition of the raven, that in the poem quoteth, “nevermore.” But in the case of your covers, the raven should say “evermore” – your covers should come evermore.
Your covers remind me of Keats’ Ode on a Grecian Urn, where he says “A thing of beauty is a joy forever,” because as in the case of any good treasure, they can be enjoyed again and again. Thanks for sharing your talent via your covers and I, like the raven, hope your covers come “evermore.”
Can’t wait to see the next treasure!” – A devoted fan, BJS
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“What can I say that has not already been said about your cachets? Received the OX ‘n’ POE and again thrilled with the results, in particular, your treatment of the lighting on the “Lunar Year of the Ox” cover. How clever. ... If I was a cachetmaker I would hang up my tools rather than compete against the “Touch of Gold.” You can play down your popularity out of respect for your competition but let us face it, you have the “Wall of Fame” for all of your acclaimed cover honors that speaks for itself.” -- HPD
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“The past week in South Florida, we recorded some of our coldest days on record, with the temps dipping into the low 30s with a wind-chill factor in the 20s. During the same week, I received your last 2 FDC: the Year of the Ox and Edgar Allan Poe. Your timing was perfect, for your covers provided me with some much needed sunshine.” – RL
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January, 2009
In response to LK's receipt of our 2008 YEAR First Day Covers,I received the following letter:
“Once again I am trying to find the right words to thank you ever so much for the lovely cachets. As always, your talent amazes me, inspires me, teaches me, and brings me such joy. ...
- I love the Bette Davis and Frank Sinatra cachets – they will be eternal favorites. You captured their likenesses perfectly.
- A few years back, I was dragged to a few baseball games, and the best part (for me) was the seventh-inning stretch and the singing of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” – ha! I had no idea about the myth regarding President Taft starting this tradition – so interesting! See? That’s what I appreciate about your wonderful work; not only are you an incredible artist, the interesting tidbits and facts you include are just so great.
- The story with your beautiful Rykestrasse Synagogue cachet was just so moving. Wow! 60 years after that horrible, horrible event, this glorious synagogue celebrates a grand reopening. So inspiring!
- I will probably never get to Ethiopia, but I now know some important and interesting things about it, along with the Chinese New Year. Your staging of both cachets is just stunning.
- I read “The Yearling” by Marjorie Rawlings many years ago (and saw the movie many years ago, as well), but now your delightful cachet will motivate me to look into her other novels.
- As it is bitter cold outside again as I write this (we’ve had sub-zero temperatures already this winter), I look longingly at your lovely Duck Stamp (complete with a real feather, no less!) and pine for what appears to be a warm, partly cloudy day at sunset on a quiet, little pond (or maybe near a lake shore?) Your artistry truly invites me in.
- I am still reading your newsletters – I’ve brought them to work and look over them at lunch time. You’re such a great writer – a real communicator who gets a difficult job done in a smart and entertaining way.” – LK, Morgantown, WV
Note: How eloquently LK expresses herself! It is always nice to know how the recipients of my covers feel. This was so nicely done, I will treasure it forever. – DG
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November, 2008
"I don't know which is more fun -- your beautiful cachets or the humor and taste with which you inform them." -- PE
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"We are blessed with so many caring people in our lives. Thanks for your beautiful First Day Covers. They are amazing." --D&RL
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October, 2008
(From France): "Now I have been at your homepage and read a little about you. It was fun and interesting reading to get to "know you" :-). I really love your production and am always looking for the ones with the "touch of gold." -- SD'O
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"What I find so interesting is that you research the figures and their markings so well (2008 Duck FDC)." -- EG
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"I was at the mail box when our jovial postman came with the mail. "Today is going to be special for you," he said, as he handed me the envelope from Touch of Gold. What an understatement! And those beady eyes bring the little feathered critters to life.
"I have HP duck stamps from many of the very best -- Pugh, Lois Hamilton, Linda Geerlings, De Rossett, Poorman, Sue Allen, Ross Hamilton, and some others with only initials that I cannot identify now -- and yours not only do not suffer by comparison, they add substantially to the natural beauty of a collection in which they are quite at home.
You have an amazing talent. Thanks." -- JAD
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"Here is my order for two of your beautiful covers (Ducks). ... I purchase your covers, whenever I can find them, and I love every one of them! Thank you very much!
and
"I received the covers today--2005 Hooded Meganser Duck, and 2008 Northern Pintail Duck, and they are beautiful! Thank you so much!" -- EC
****************** June, 2008
“Just received the Frank Sinatra issue – another great cover, especially with your ability to capture the essence of the individual, which you so often do. Each addition to the cover is always interesting and just somehow gives it that extra and personal touch. ... Your accompanying Newsletter is always a plethora of information and always interesting. The info about Frank Sinatra was particularly interesting. The inclusion of pictures a real plus, especially those of you and your family– really adds the personal touch." – WJS
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“I am so glad I ordered the Hand Painted FDC of Frank Sinatra. When I took the FDC out of the envelope, there was a portrait of Frank Sinatra smiling and looking like “OLD BLUE EYES” himself. Congratulations on a job well done. Are you sure that you’re not a portrait artist passing yourself off as a First Day Cover designer?” – BO
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"Start spreading the News!” your Sinatra cover is , ‘A’ Number One, Top of the Heap! – Dr. HC “Just loved the Frank Sinatra thru the ages cover.” – JF
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“Regarding Sinatra: I have always suspected 'I’VE GOT YOU UNDER MY SKIN.' When old Blue Eyes arrived it convinced me to have it '“MY WAY' 'NIGHT AND DAY. While looking at your cover I admit 'MY HEART STOOD STILL.' 'THE VERY THOUGHT OF YOU' sending it to me 'ALL THE WAY,' 'COME RAIN OR COME SHINE”is appreciated. 'WHAT IS THIS THING CALLED LOVE' is your touch of gold. Maybe it’s “WITCHCRAFT” hmmmm?” – HD
May, 2008
(Responses to A Blast from the Past by Doris Gold, appearing in First Days, June 1,2008, page ll)
"What an interesting article. I also went on the DN Journal's web site for the bibliography and was overwhelmed to get a double-barreled treatment of success stories -- yours and the one of Ari. Doris, you have been such an influence to those who have come in contact with you, it goes without saying you are a "TOUCH OF GOLD." We may never meet, but it is no loss as long as our association continues through communication. God Bless You And Yours, -- Howard Dennis "
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"My copy of First Days came in only today, but what a joy and inspiration to read your article.
"You may remember in 'Diary' I reported meeting a student some 20 years after she had been in a class I taught, and how pleased I was that she said that that course was the best she had ever had. The truth was not as flattering, when I asked her the name of the course or the text, which she could not remember. "But what made my class so special for you?" I asked. She replied "It was those funny stories you always came up with."
"Thus, I can only consider my legacy from years of teaching to be giving some young people a few laughs. Your impact has been so much more. I have come to believe that impact on others has nothing to do with the medium -- teaching in my case, FDC art in yours -- that makes the difference, but the high integrity and humane conscience of the person. Your young man is a high tribute to you.
"Oh -- and incidentally, nice writing! -- Junius Davis, PHD"
March, 2008
“You have such a wonderful grasp of colors, it never ceases to amaze me with each cover you send. Many cachetmakers must marvel at the unique artistry given your covers. Thank you again, and by the way – in the words of (Marjorie Kinnan)Rawlings, “Cross Creek belongs to the wind and the rain, etc.”– well now it belongs to me through your creations. What a treat to be blessed with your gems all ‘THE YEAR-LING’. ” – HD
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(From a new subscriber) “Am enjoying your first covers.” – HS
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"I just had to send you another note to say thank you! You are a wonderful and talented artist… I love the Garbo and the Tiffany covers. I enjoy working in stained glass and I was lucky to see some of Tiffany’s work first hand about a year ago in Pittsburgh. It was just exquisite – beyond my description... Your beautifully crafted cover will remind me of that every time I look at it.
"As for my father, well he went on and on about his covers, postcards, stamps etc, etc. Getting the FDC's for him was a great reason for him to take out some of his albums and again enjoy his love for Philately. So from both of us, thank you again." -- MR
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In response to an email authenticating my autograph on a "Happy Birthday America" cover designed for Greater Miami Cachets in 1976: "Thank you so much for the information. I will be on the lookout for more of your works. Looks like you were blessed with a very special gift. Your work will continue to give much enjoyment to many for a very long time." -- BP
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"This cachet (Charles Chesnutt) is fabulous, and it was a learning experience for me I do not recall of ever hearing of this writer." -- EG
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Note with subscription renewal deposit: "Dues for the Poor Man's Metropolitan Museum of Art." -- JAD
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February 20, 2008
"Saw your article in the latest edition of "First Days." Your title was so aptly stated -- neither too young nor too old. As a retired educator, I appreciate the significance of telling our young and old about our hobby. My greatest regret is that I didn't start collecting sooner and it's important that one has a hobby -- it helps give life more significance and importance in later years. With collecting -- you can't wait to see the next cover creation -- you have something to look forward to. It's just what the doctor has ordered and if I were still teaching, I would have wanted you to come to my classes. Seeing the quality of your work, I know your presentation had that "touch of gold." My hat's off to you for this endeavor, because despite being very busy, you still gave of your time -- something all of us should do. You make me proud to be a member of the cover collecting community. Thanks from a retired educator who is awfully glad to have a hobby that brings enjoyment, anticipation and a sense of accomplishment." -- WJS
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January 28, 2008
"Just had to send off a small note to compliment on your Year of the Rat cover; the golden braiding was the frosting on the cake, so to speak. I really appreciate the extra time you take and extra effort that goes into creating those special effects. A solid thumbs-up.
In another matter, I enjoyed your First Days article, and I applaud your efforts to bring the joy of covers to young minds. Hopefully, in the years ahead, they will carry the torch that you handed to them, and keep the Hobby's light bright for many, many years to come.
Thanks again for your contributions to the hobby."
-- RL
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In response to a donation of FDC's:
"On behalf of the Officers and Board of Managers of the Congregation Beth Ahabah, the Rabbi, Cantor, Sisterhood, Museum & Archives and me, please accept my sincere "Thank You" for the lovely and generous contribution of "First Covers." Please know that your caring and concern for our congregation is very much appreciated." -- RMF, Executive Director
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"The two FDC's (Christmas and Hanukkah) are teriffic! So much work went into the costumes on the Bulgaria cover, and the historical information about the synagogue (Beth Ahabah) in Richmond, is so special. How wonderful that you were able to share that knowledge with everyone." --EG
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October, 2007
A hand printed letter from one of my recent subscribers is so heartwarming, I would like to share some of it with you:
"Doris, I just received your latest cover, Gerald R. Ford, and as always you capture so well the spirit of the man and our former President. I am a great admirer of President Ford, who handled so well a most difficult time in our political history. Your cachet does him great justice. Thanks for another great cover as do all your covers -- they have that appeal that makes you want to see the next one and the next one. Keep going -- here's one fan that hopes to receive another Doris Gold cachet for years and years. I never tire of going through my cover collection again and again. I wont tell you the number of times I have revisited my Doris Gold collection. For me this means you're doing it right. Some cachets are mundane, but yours are the most alive and vibrant. ... For me, I collect what I like and I like that "touch of gold." -BJS
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From a Christmas Topic collector: "Do you really visit all the countries you write about for your FDC's (Christmas Around the World)?" Answer: "I wish! But, no, I just armchair travel without leaving my home. It's known as the computer, which can take anyone to any place in the world.-- DG
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"Thanks, Doris, for the cute, lovely card. But then, that's the Doris I've come to know and love! :-) Seeing you as a cachetmaker is only seeing you on the surface without seeing the big heart that lies beneath it". – DM
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"Just what I needed to ward off the cold,
A cheerful message from your "Touch of Gold."
Fire on the hearth, slippers on my feet,
DGX #138 & 139 would really be neat."
-HD
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"For these many years I look forward to your beautiful cachets. It's always a great surprise, and a thing of beauty." -LW
"Thank you for your latest covers! They're all just beautiful and I treasure every one. It's really been nice receiving your covers, and it always makes me feel like I'm receiving a present from you.
-SS
"I received your Arthur Ashe cover. I am always particularly fond of special effect covers, in this case the 'netting'(on the tennis racquet). It's always such a pleasant surprise when you do this."
-RL
