Not long ago, I asked Justin Fink, our young assistant editor, when he was born, and he replied, “Issue 6.” It was a visceral reminder that Fine Homebuilding has been around for a long time now. (It was also a reminder that Justin is a first-rate smart aleck, but then, that’s what it takes to survive around here some days.)

Fine Homebuilding will soon celebrate its 25th anniversary, and we’d like your help. Above all else, we think this magazine is about you: the community of people who come together in its pages. You come here to learn, to share your experience, and to argue about better ways of building. So it’s only fitting that your stories be heard in our silver-anniversary issue, February/March 2006 (#177).

What’s the best thing that ever happened to you because of Fine Homebuilding? What’s the worst? Did we help you build your dream house? Or did we cost you all the profit on a remodeling job because your customer saw that article about making concrete countertops? Here you’ll find a few examples of the kinds of stories we’re looking for — these are reminiscences that were published in our 20th anniversary issue, February/March 2001 (#137).

December 1 is the deadline for stories and photos

Try to keep your stories short — 200 words or less. Be serious, be sentimental, be silly, but be quick. We need to hear from you by Dec. 1 at the latest, and sooner is definitely better. Send your stories to Fine Homebuilding 25-Year Tales, P.O. Box 5506, Newtown, CT 06470, or email us at [email protected].

We’re also looking for photographs — compelling pictures that somehow embody the spirit of Fine Homebuilding. Whether it’s a photo of a finished project or a work in progress, someone working hard or people appreciating the fruits of their labor, we’re looking for dramatic photos that say craftsmanship, dedication, generosity, and home. If you have a photo that you think fits the bill, then send it to us. Who knows? Maybe we’ll use it on the cover.

Kevin Ireton is editor of Fine Homebuilding. His first story in Fine Homebuilding was “Plumb, Level and Square,” which was published as a Great Moment in the April/May 1984 issue (#20).

Fine Homebuilding Recommended Products

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Affordable IR Camera

This camera is super useful for tracking down air leaks in buildings. The one-hand pistol grip arrangement frees your other hand for steadying yourself while maneuvering tricky job sites.

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Handy Heat Gun

This heat gun is great for drying joint compound, primer and paint when patching drywall and plaster walls. Plus it can soften adhesive, get a very cold small engine to start, and shrink heat-shrink tubing.

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8067 All-Weather Flashing Tape

Available in 2- to 12-in. widths, this is a good general-purpose flashing tape that sticks well to most things. It features a two-piece release paper, water-shedding layers, and good UV resistance.

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