Letter to the Editor; "The Rock Doc" column to be replaced by "Ask Dr. Universe"

To the Editor:

For ten years now I have written columns about science and engineering topics as “The Rock Doc.” It’s been a good ride. I’ve heard from some of your readers interested in what I’ve written about. And I’ve heard from others who have been deeply angry about what I wrote concerning evolution or the benefits of vaccinations.

As it happens, my health is poor and I am taking disability retirement from Washington State University. As least for the foreseeable future, I will be on sabbatical from producing Rock Doc columns.

The good news is that I have a younger colleague able to provide you with weekly science-based copy free of charge. Her name is Rachel Webber and she will continue this email immediately below. Her column is called “Ask Dr. Universe.” I recommend Rachel’s work most highly.

Thanks for the good times over the years. Best wishes to you and your papers,

Dr. E. Kirsten Peters

The Rock Doc