We highly recommend the new issue…hell, any issue of Amid Amidi's Animation Blast, a splendid periodical that is too periodical. That is, it doesn't come out nearly enough…but when it does, it's always full of interesting insight and history concerning the animation field. The latest issue (seen at left) has a terrific piece on Ed Benedict, one of the great unsung designers of cartoons, including most of the early Hanna-Barbera shows. I think the piece gives a wee bit too much credit to Benedict and not enough to Dick Bickenbach who, I've heard, did more than is indicated here. On the other hand, there's no question Benedict was the main creative force behind the visuals and that he hasn't received nearly enough recognition for it.
You can find out how to get this issue over on Amid's website, which you can reach by clicking here. And while you're there, browse about. The place is full of interesting animation articles and links.