For those who have lived in the Nelson area for a while, the scope and depth of local people making waves rippling well beyond our little burg are well known.

For those who don't, the last few weeks have once again provided readers an insight into one area in particular where we are lucky enough to have a wealth of world class talent — literature.

Recent issues of the Nelson Daily News have featured two of the most talented writers strolling Baker Street side-by-side with the rest of us.

Both Anne DeGrace and Mark Nykanen are likely more famous outside our borders than within. Both are well respected writers whose words are enjoyed by many who have no idea where Nelson, British Columbia even is.

DeGrace and Nykanen have huge talent, but are modest folks living here for much the same reasons as the rest of us.

When she's not on a book tour or crafting her next tale, DeGrace works humbly at the Nelson Municipal Library fostering a love for reading. When he's not researching his next thriller, Nykanen can be seen walking the street with his charming young daughter in the role of dad.

These are the people in your neighbourhood. And like so many other pockets of talent in this amazing and diverse place, we're pretty lucky to have them. Not only as a showcase for local talent, but the more "average" roles they play in day-to-day Nelson life.

Like local shopping, we also have to do everything in our power to continue to support people like DeGrace and Nykanen. And not only this pair, but the next DeGrace and Nykanen. This is where we all play a role in helping foster and nourish individuals with talent to take them to the next level.

Congratulations to both local writers on their most recent success.

— Managing Editor Bob Hall

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