From the Publisher In February, OutSmart magazine will be entering its ninth year in publishing. We’d like to thank our readers for continuing to support our advertisers who keep us in publishing.They advertise in OutSmart because they want to put the message forth that they seek and value the business of the GLBT community–in return, please support them with your business and let them know how much you appreciate them.

If there is a gift that could be found from the tragedy of September 11, it is the reminder to often embrace those we love and to make sure that our lives are filled with both meaning and joy. For all of us at OutSmart, that means being able to publish a magazine for the community that we love and are proud to be part of. Thank you for this tremendous opportunity.

Like many businesses, OutSmart was hit hard during the aftermath to the World Trade Center tragedy. Admittedly, some days it has been just plain difficult to continue going about "business as usual." Especially when our publishing company’s growth and existence depends so much on the health and confidence of our advertisers as well as the mercy of the economy.

Just how stressful has it been for us? Just look at my head. I’ve pulled out all my hair!

Last month, OutSmart faced a difficult business decision: whether we should change the magazine format from glossy paper stock back to newsprint. The decision was hard, but the choice was obvious. It was the prudent thing to do; we thought of it as akin to rationing and other austerity measures during World War II.

When the economy permits, we look forward to putting out a glossy magazine again. But for now, this format will give us greater control over our company’s growth and an even greater opportunity to add more new columnists and features. It will also afford us more energy and resources to attend to our mission of slaying the dragon of homophobia and spotlighting the achievements of our great community.

Here’s to a new year of hope for peace, prosperity, and health for all of us.

Greg Jeu, Publisher