Missouri biz journal preparing magazine overhaul

Brian McNeill, the editor of the Columbia Business Times in Missouri, writes about the newspaper’s planned overhaul of its monthly magazine.

McNeill writes, “In addition to working on coverage for our biweekly Columbia Business Times, we’ve been building a new monthly CBTthat will make its debut in a few weeks.

“I can say our new CBT is the most exciting project I’ve worked on in my nearly 30 years in journalism and corporate communications. Art director Alisha Moreland has created a fresh and engaging look to our magazine that blows me away every time I look at the proofs. I can’t wait to see it printed on glossy pages with a sleek, satin cover. If it seems as though I’m describing a new Macbook, iPad or iPhone — yes, I’m a devotee of Apple design — well, it’s not too far from the truth. The new CBT just looks that good. Wait and see.

“CBT has a tradition of solid reporting and writing, and our new version will carry that torch forward. We have the time and talent to explore business stories in greater detail and add depth and new angles that you probably won’t find elsewhere. In-depth reporting rarely exists these days, but we’re going to take every advantage of it.

“From my days in the J-school at MU, I’ve been aware of the high quality of journalists and photojournalists who call Columbia home. But as I connect with freelancers, I’m truly astounded. We have some great folks contributing to CBT — all hardworking and dedicated.

“And there will be new departments. I won’t spoil the surprise by naming all of them, but trust me, they will bring new dimensions to our publication.”

Read more here.