If you think this 2005 issue of PaperAge looks a little different from past issues, you're right; it is.

The first change we made was to increase the width of the trim size of the magazine, or simply stated, the pages are wider than they used to be. We added 3/8 of an inch, which brings our pages to a whooping 8 1/2 inches wide. Ok, it might not sound like a lot, but the magazine takes on a whole new look-wide-format page layouts and wide-format ad pages.

Naturally, expanding the trim size fueled further modifications. So we took a good look at the page layouts and made some adjustments. You'll notice a new look to the news section, columnists pages, and feature articles. We also added, and will continue to add, “departments.” In this issue you can find: “viewpoint” on pg. 25, “recycling matters” on pg. 26, and “of interest” on pg. 28.

In future issues we plan to add “supplier side,” where our industry suppliers will have a chance to discuss new technology, business, or just offer some food for thought.

You can rest assure that David Price continues to bring a European perspective via his newly named column (“heads-up,” pg. 20), and Harold Cody will also deliver his analysis of benchmark pulp and paper grades (“market grades,” pg. 22). In addition, AF&PA plans to provide insight into the pertinent issues facing the industry in “shaping the industry” (pg. 18).

Our goal is to create a wider scope of editorial subjects and include all of the operating segments that make up the paper industry. Consider it a work in progress.

Paper Week 2005
It's not quite that time of year, but AF&PA's Paper Week convention will be here before we know it. In case you are not aware, Paper Week is being held in April instead of March-April 10-13 to be exact. The new date should certainly bring some warmer weather to the already enjoyable gathering at the Waldorf=Astoria in New York City.

Just to brush-over a couple of the big items at Paper Week, a preliminary schedule (as of my January deadline) shows the Pulp & Paper General Session to focus on “Tomorrow's Consumers: How Will They Buy Paper?” and the Packaging General Session will examine “Packaging for a Constantly Changing Marketplace.” In addition, the Recycling General Session program discusses “Recycling Trends: Worldwide to Curbside-What Does the Future Hold for You?”

Paper Week is a great take. New business is gained, old business is renewed, deals get done, friends are made, and best of all you have the opportunity to actually shake hands with phone and email colleagues.

Oh, while you're at Paper Week, stop by the South Lobby of the Waldorf and say hello. We'll be there handing out the AF&PA Paper Week Convention Dailies.

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