From the Editor As we open the new year with an increase from eight to ten issues, we are pleased to report that the city/regional magazine industry in the U.S. seems to be enjoying not just health, but reassuring growth. As reported by the 2008 National Directory of Magazines, between 2002 and 2007, U.S. and Canadian magazines increased from 14,178 to 15,672—roughly ten percent—and regional magazines increased fifty-one percent (754 to 1138). During the same five-year period, home or “shelter” magazines increased by fifty-seven percent, celebrity titles by forty percent, and, in the most dramatic jump, bridal magazines increased by ninety-six percent (69 to 135). While some magazine categories declined in number, the large number of increases demonstrates that the death of print may be a bit exaggerated, at least in the magazine world. Analysts note that the most growth is seen in niche markets, where magazines are pitched to different specialized groups: bridal magazines for men, for example, or for various ethnic constituencies. So it looks like books and magazines might be around for quite a while; indeed, global warming is beginning to look like a much more immediate threat than the death of print. On to happier thoughts! We hope our WNY readers will enjoy two great features in this issue: Castle Connolly’s list of 101 top area doctors and the Spree writers’ list of some of their favorite cheap eats. We also invite readers to join us at our January/February Spree-sponsored events: SS Shea’s: January 12; Polar Bites, benefiting the Buffalo Zoo: February 22; Buffalo Spree Theater Night with the Jewish Repertory Theatre: February 28; and Burchfield-Penney Happy Hour: February 29. See our calendar for more information—and stay warm! Back to the Table of Contents Back to Top