• by Erik Sass , November 9, 2007

Jews and Judeophiles now have a lifestyle magazine all their own, Jewish Living, which goes on sale November 13th. Billed as a "smart, stylish, and thoroughly modern magazine," Jewish Living targets Jewish women ages 25-54, with a median household income of over $125,000, with content focusing on Jewish culture, rather than religion or politics.

Gentiles may scratch their heads over the difference--"I thought Judaism was a religion?"--but many self-identifying Jews are agnostic or even atheist, embracing the cultural traditions of their ancestors while picking and choosing among the religion's tenets. Under the guidance of Editor in Chief Liza Schoenfein, formerly executive editor at Saveur, Jewish Living will feature content on style, social causes, and practical, how-to information for meals, celebrations, and do-it-yourself projects, while steering clear of religious doctrine or controversial political issues.

The bimonthly magazine, launching with a rate base of 100,000, is the creation of Daniel Zimerman, a former senior creative advertising executive at Foote Cone Belding, and his wife Carol Moskot, who serves as the mag's creative director. Kim Amzallag, previously the luxury goods advertising sales director for Western Interiors, serves as publisher. The title is published by ZS Publishing US, Inc, and distributed nationally by Curtis Circulation.

W Magazine Enjoys a Record Year

Conde Nast's W Magazine is set to break records for ad pages and revenue in 2007, according to Vice President and Publisher Nina Lawrence, who said the magazine will end the year with an 11% gain in ad pages. That's an increase of 232 pages, for a total 2,216. Over the course of the year, the magazine has run 311 pages from new advertisers, representing 14% of the total. New advertisers include Pravda Vodka, Gucci Fragrances, Fendi Perfumes, Kate Spade, Baccarat, Greenbrier Resort and Borghese.

Hollywood Reporter Heads East

The Hollywood Reporter, the entertainment industry's must-have trade rag, is expanding its coverage back east with a new New York City-based "Premier Edition." Launched last Friday, "Premier Edition" focuses on TV and film production on the East Coast. Traditionally second fiddle to the Hollywood behemoth, the East Coast is burgeoning, thanks in part to financial incentives provided by state and local governments eager for more business. For example, in 2004, the New York State legislature approved a tax credit to help film and television productions, and in 2006 Mayor Michael Bloomberg said New York City would also offer tax breaks to attract filmmakers.

Balaban Named Publisher of Every Day with Rachael Ray

Anne Balaban has been named vice president and publisher of Every Day with Rachael Ray, owner and publisher the Reader's Digest Association announced this week. The announcement was made by Suzanne M. Grimes, president of the food and entertaining division for the Reader's Digest Association. Balaban was previously senior vice president and publisher of Everyday Food, owned by Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia. Praising Balaban's experience, Grimes said "her combination of print and digital experience will be instrumental in creating powerful multi-platform solutions for our wide range of advertising partners."

Weitzner to New Role at UBM

United Business Media announced some major changes in its senior management last week. Steve Weitzner, CEO of CMP Technology, is stepping down effective immediately, and UBM has launched a search for a replacement. Weitzner is transitioning into a new role leading CMP Technology's international acquisition and business development in India, Europe and China.

Edward Prince Named EVP, Operations, at NatGeo

Edward M. Prince has been named the executive vice-president for operations at National Geographic Global Media, the company announced this week. In his new role, Prince is responsible for global operations and digital growth for a variety of National Geographic consumer media assets, spanning movies to magazines. He will continue in his role as chief operating officer for National Geographic Ventures, overseeing its TV, film, home entertainment, digital media, music, and maps divisions.