Monday, February 16, 2009

Farewell, Lipstick

Thanks to Media of Birmingham and The Terminal for getting the word out about Lipstick folding. If you've come here from either site, here's a bit more info.

The Birmingham News launched Lipstick in November 2007 with high hopes (and a low budget). Our staff included art director Michelle Hazelwood Hyde, managing editor Laurel Mills, administrative assistant Nadria Tucker, and myself as editor in chief. All of us were laid off on Friday. According to the News, it was strictly a business decision. We had to make money to survive, and in this economic climate it just wasn't happening.

For what it's worth, the News was always supportive of our editorial content. Nervous, but supportive. We established a somewhat irreverent voice early on that was a challenge in a city as conservative as Birmingham, but we had a loyal, vocal following. I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve the women (and men!) of Birmingham in whatever small way. I look forward to the next chapter.

Big, big thanks and hugs to Anne Glamore, Catherine McCarty, Kim Hildenbrand, Chianti Cleggett, Helen Grebe, Abigail Millwood, Cindy Riley, Melanie LeMay and so many others I'm probably forgetting for writing such fantastic essays, profiles and articles. I wish you all the best in your journeys.

Meanwhile, please pick up the March issue of Lipstick! It will be on racks throughout the city around March 1. And if you're upset the magazine is going away, drop a line to the News and let them know. :)

5 comments:

  1. I'm sorry to hear this... My fiance just discovered Lipstick and enjoyed the few issues she got her hands on. Keep trying!

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  2. Tina,

    I am so sad. I just heard the news today about Lipstick. It will be missed.

    I hope it's a teensy bit of comfort to know that as soon as I heard about this I've been praying for you and the other staff members. I know you will find other pursuits where your many talents will again be evident. Meanwhile I hope it helps to know how well respected your work is.

    Jeanie McLean

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  3. Thanks for the mention. Good luck, Tina.

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  4. Upset is putting it minorly. I feel like I lost a friend! You all did such an amazing job... what a run.

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  5. Hi Tina,

    Have you ever thought of going it alone or keeping the team together to make your own magazine. Or even licensing a Magazine from elsewhere.

    Have a look on www.brucesawfordlicensing.com

    eddie@brucesawfordlicensing.com

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