Positive

I received a complimentary copy of a new publication entitled: POSITIVE! and I am a True Believer as well as a Dedicated Follower of this new entry into the genre of: Reflective/Brilliant/Genius/POSITIVE communication. The articles are Fascinating, the visuals are simply Delicious, and the editorial focus is one of Living in the realm of the POSITIVE: a strategy for negotiating LIFE, as we journey along the path of our individual LIVES. Do take a little time to sit and relax by the side of the road, as you examine the interesting work of some Gifted Artists and Authors. In true Lebowski musing: "You can imagine where it goes from here!" ABIDE! Dr. Marsha A. Goin

Architectural Record

I asked a friend of mine who is an architecture student to recommend a good magazine for me--a casual reader. He suggested Architectural Record (AR) immediately. I followed his lead and started buying AR from bookstores. After reading about one year, I got some opinions on the pros and cons of this magazine and would like to share them with prospective readers/subscribers. Please note that my evaluation is from a layperson's point of view. It might not work for professionals.

I think the goal of AR is to keep people updated about what's happening in the architectural communities around the world, to present the latest works, and to reveal some patterns or trends in today's design. Based on this mission, I think AR does a great job.

But if architecture is only your hobby, AR might be too much for you. At least we are not making a living with it and do not have to know everything about it. Chances are that only a small part of the content in each issue might interest you. Nevertheless, as what I mentioned, AR is a good and serious architecture journal. So the key question is not whether to read it or not, but how to read it wisely or read which issue(s).

Fortunately, several clues can provide us with good suggestions. Each issue of AR has a special section called "Building Type Study" which focuses on one type of building (such as library, museum, bridge, office building, etc.). You can choose the right issues by skimming through the this section. Moreover, each year AR has a special issue called "Record Houses" featuring about 10 residental projects carefully selected around the world. If you are into residential architecture, you don't want to miss them.

Unless you are a hardcore architecture fan and would like to know all about it, amateurs like me can choose the right issues to read and get the information I need. I think this is the right or smart strategy to take advantage of this quality magazine.

That being said, I am not quite comfortable about the large volume of advertisements in the magazine (though I know it might be necessary).

I love the magazine... but unfortunately had to cancel my subscription because Synapse Inc. (the company that is shipping arch-record through amazon) is incompetent. The magazine arrived badly damaged (they don't wrap it in plastic when they ship it); to be honest, the injuries to the magazine looked so bad that I suspect it was shipped that way. I was incredibly disappointed and tried to contact Synapse to ask for a new magazine... the only problem is that you can not talk to a live person at Synapse. They have an automated customer service hot line with cleverly-worded questions that make it impossible to get satisfaction. Their website offers no other emails or phone number to contact for help. There is not even an option to cancel your subscription! Thankfully Amazon is very helpful and canceled for me. All in all I would say that Architectural Record is a great magazine and a must-have, just DO NOT order it through Synapse Inc.!!

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Order the magazine directly from publisher if you want to get it... I'm in my second attempt via Amazon's magazine dept to find out where the magazine is. Ordered in December and should have received it at latest on Feb 6. Today is Mar 22.

Just got off the phone with synapse mag svc, they're going to have someone call me in 3-5 business days to complete a "customer service action form". Them I'm sure there'll be another several days wait for them to find out they screwed up, fix the problem and tell me I'll get my magazine in 6-8 weeks.

If I ever get the magazine, maybe I'll review it here next time.

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This magazine is great for industry professionals. If you are looking for more decorating type magazines, I recommend Architectural Digest, Veranda, etc. Architectural Record is more technical based and offers industry related information such as elevations and floor plans. In that respect, if you are a student of Architecture or Interior Design, get this magazine because you will be introduced to things you just cannot get in school or in other non-industry magazines. It is wise to add this magazine to your list of subscriptions.

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Unlike some of the previous buyers I have a very positive experience. The first issue arrived within 30 days after the purchase, faster than most other venues for magazines.

I have always been a big fan of McGraw Hill as a publisher. AR is simply another gem.

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Der Spiegel

There are a few good news magazines out there, the Spiegel is definitely one of them.

I teach German in the US and my older students read the Spiegel with a lot of enthusiasm. They are always astounded by the depths of the Spiegel's coverage when comparing it Time Magazine, Newsweek or others.

I absolutely do not share the opinion that the Spiegel covers only events related to Germany. The reports are critical, and compared to American media usually a bit left ( if you consider NPR coverage left as well).

For those who are fortunate enough to have a working knowledge of German, Der Spiegel presents an astonishingly informative magazine every week. Each issue has over 200 pages, with articles about politics, art, music, architecture, travel, technology, and just about anything else you might want in a weekly magazine. Imagine The Economist at thrice its size, with longer articles, and written in German: that is Der Spiegel.

When I was still learning the language, I found Spiegel rather difficult to understand. This is probably because it's not written for idiots. Still, I learned a lot of colloquial German from reading it. For those who are learning German, and those who speak it well, there is no better source of information than Der Spiegel.

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I have been a reader of the Spiegel in Germany for several years. Since I moved to the US for graduate study I subscribe to a daily (free!) newsletter called "Der Tag". Instead of relying on polemic critics you might as well read some of the articles yourself to get an idea of the quality of the Spiegel.

By the way, I also love the Economist. In general, however, I think the neoclassical approach of the Economist differs significantly from the perceptively left-leaning, liberal Spiegel.

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I have a subscription to Der Spiegel and the quality of the magazine is prima. Very high-level stuff in every magazine and covers a very broad variety of topics. I agree with the other reviewers that the magazine leans left, as the German population itself does. As a Republican myself, I sometimes find the political orientation of Der Spiegel to be somewhat annoying (its transparently biased view on Obama over McCain, for instance), but the magazine is an important source for left-leaning perspectives for me and has catapulted my German to the next level. Der Spiegel is not always biased, however, and many of its articles are supremely sophisticated and informative.

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I've been reading "Der Spiegel" for over 30 years. To compare "Der Spiegel" to "Time", as it is today, is like comparing "Time" to a comic book. They are in a different league all together. The depth in the articles in "Der Spiegel" are way above other magazines. Some have said it has a "left" leaning. That is surprising because I always got the feeling than people in Germany think it leans "right". That's because in general the political spectrum is more to the "left" in Europe.

In any case, I must credit "Der Spiegel" with helping me learn German and making sure I keep my German knowledge current. Above all I must credit "Der Spiegel" with keeping me informed. If you are a teacher, a student or an expatriate it's a must have.

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Modern Drummer

I've been a Modern Drummer reader/subscriber for a very long time and it's consistently been a decent magazine.

MD does excellent product reviews. They are always interesting to read and give a good idea of how a product sounds (always tricky) or works. Whenever MD focuses on equipment, be it the reviews or news of new equipment, the magazine excels. They do a very good job of keeping up with manufacturers all over the world. And this is no mean feat considering that the number of types of instruments and equipment that fall under the category of drums and percussion is probably as vast as all other instruments combined.

Also one of the better aspects of the magazine are the "filler" (nondepartmental) articles that vary from month to month. The editors do a respectable job of filling the mag with articles that will interest all aspects of the drumming community. Community also plays a big part. Drummers, unlike guitarists, tend to love each other rather than despise others with talent. Little things like updates on older drummers, world drummer features, new drummers featured every month, birthdays, and even obituaries foster this sense. The latter is one of the best aspects of the magazine, as the editors really hold the community feel in mind when doing obits, often featuring drummers and music folks that would never get press anywhere else. Having some history of drumming presented in this manner helps to appreciate those that went on before us.

MD also tries to help instructionally, publishing charts and transcriptions of famous drum performances. The editors consistently try to educate on several fronts, including technique, buying tips, how to make a living as a drummer, and so on. All these features are invaluable.

There are some flaws, though, with the biggest being the main interviews. Featured drummers have traditionally been big names, but those names anymore are from bands I have either never heard of or are lopsidedly in the metal/grunge/industrial arena. Most of these guys are here today and gone tomorrow. Plus, they usually have little to say about the craft. And their final critique: I get tired of all the multi-tattooed, "I'm Cool", metal coverboys staring out from the magazine rack in my living room. Nothing says style like have some guy with piercings all over his face brooding at friends, neighbors, and in-laws. Some of these guys on the covers even scare children.

Sadly, technique and craft are often not discussed in great detail in the main interviews. One recent edition had interviews with two veterans, Stewart Copeland and Vic Firth. And while this was one of the better copies of the mag, little of technique was discussed with these two drumming giants. If you have heard either play, and you are a drummer, you'd love to know how they do it and from where they pull their style. Considering that interviews comprise a large portion of the magazine, this can be disconcerting.

The magazine also features reviews of recordings, but seems to pull its punches, possibly for fear of losing advertisers. The lowest rating you almost ever see for recordings is a "6" out of "10", with most being an "8". Hey, I listen to a lot of music and the sub-6 category consists of about 90% of what is out there.

The last con is the look of the magazine. For a music magazine, it's not very hip-looking. The design of the magazine seems to always be stale, even when it is updated from time to time.

Still, despite its lacks, MD holds up. There are few other options for magazines for drummers, so you don't have a lot of choices anyway. Considering this, MD gets an extra star in the review simply for being there for those of us who like to hit the skins.

There aren't many magazines for drummers that you run across at your average newstand (usually only two or three). This is the best all-around one to get. Good interviews, good reviews, good advertising. Not much on the local scene, but I can live with that.

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Modern Drummer is much more than a magazine about drummers; it's a magazine about DRUMMING. You simply can't find a better magazine that keeps you on top of everything drum-related. From new product reviews, to tuning techniques, to health columns about good playing posture and other drummer woes, to the well-written and informative articles, Modern Drummer is the best source of drumming information. Who knew that by reading a review with Godsmack's drummer, I'd learn that putting cotton balls in my floor tom is a great muffling technique? All music genres are covered in the magazine, with sheet music and guest columns from the world's greats showing how it's done.

If you're a drummer, do yourself a favor and get a subscription today. You will value this magazine for the rest of your life.

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This is my son inlaw's favorite since he is a drummer in a band on weekends. I renew this for him every year

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It would be perfect! I've read every issue of this magazine, but occasionally let my subscription lapse. Now "I'M BACK!"

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Scottish Field

This is a beautiful publication. The articles are well written, photos are lovely, and the paper stock is high quality. Nice insight to Scotland without being touristy. Looking forward to subsequent issues.

I purchased this subscription for my fiance and he loves it to pieces. It shows some exquisite Scottish properties, highlights some unique stores and businesses, and has stunning photos. We'll be renewing in the future for sure.

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Clay Times

I have subscribed to this magazine for several years now, after buying them one issue at a time from the bookstore for several years. The magazine consistently has a wide variety of articles, covering techniques, events, biographies, project suggestions for instructors, and advice for those setting up their own studios. The quality continues to improve, and my personal experience with their customer support was quite satisfactory.

Purchased as a birthday gift for my sister, who is a fairly new potter, along with Pottery Making Illustrated. She loves them both, and says that each magazine has a very different perspective.

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I subscribe to a number of magazines and the Amazon subscription service is great, their prices are lower than the lowest prices I've gotten in offers to subscribe. I couldn't be happier!

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I haven't had the time to really read through this... but the glance I took; Looks good and I look forward to a closer look.I gave it a 4 star, but that's just a rating at a glance

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I have not yet received this magazine. I called the publisher a couple weeks ago to report this problem, and they were very nice and responsive on the phone, indicating they would send out my missed issue ASAP. I did receive another(duplicate)copy of the latest Pottery Making Illustrated issue, but no Clay Times has shown up yet! I will call publisher again, and I hope, when I finally receive this magazine, that I can rate it much higher than "1".

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Ohio Magazine (1-year auto-renewal)

This magazne is jam-packed with Ohio news, features, activities and all things Ohio. Every issue has some great reference material for thse wanting to keep up on all that's going on in the Buckeye state. Well-written and organized, it's an easy way to stay in touch with all Ohio has to offer. You won't be disappointed.

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Naval Forces

Written in English, this is probably one of the best modern naval technology magazines, discussing technology, weapons, ships and includes sections in the back for brief world news and industry news.

Women's Health (1-year auto-renewal)

I've been a reader of Women's Health (1-year) off and on for many years and have given some thought as to the best way to characterize the magazine for potential buyers. Here's essentially what you get in every issue of the mag:

-updated and interesting FITNESS information

-WEIGHT LOSS information/tips

-HEALTH information pertaining to women

-NUTRITION information for better health

-information on having a better SEX life

Note that some of the words are captialized. Well, they represent the main topics that you'll be reading about in this magazine. So, if you're looking for the latest info on any of these kinds of topics, it's worth your time to check it out. Also recommend The 5-Minute Plantar Fasciitis Solution for women suffering from plantar fasciitis.

My boyfriend ordered subscriptions to Men's and Women's health (for himself and for me, respectively) about six months ago. It didn't take me too long to figure out that women's health could be more aptly titled "men's health lite" i.e., a similar magazine with significant alterations (read: reductions) in reading level, scientific basis, and practicality.

The editors of these magazines seem to think that men seek scientifically-sound, medically proven facts for nutrition and exercise physiology, while women are looking for cheesy motivation and advice about lipstick colors.

If you want fluff, you might as well save the money and buy one of the less expensive women's 'health' mags (Self, Fitness, etc.); if you want more substantial content, try Men's Health. (Which niche Women's Health fulfills, then, seems unclear.)

save your money!

Buy Women's Health (1-year auto-renewal) Now

Unlike many female oriented magazines this one has some fine advice on health, fitness & exercise. You won't find destructive over the top dieting tips that could make you very ill & it is not overloaded with ads like "Oxygen, Shape, & Self." For those of us who want overall fitness, cross training, interesting recipes, & new outdoor activities to try this magazine is the best one out there. Even for all of us middle aged gals trying to get back some of our youthful health & appearance. Also, if you are into weight training, I would try a muscle magazine for that. WH is not that big on that subject. The main negative is some of the departments keep changing their formats & some articles can be as little as one paragraph. But, on the whole it still is better than its competitors.

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I only recently picked up on this magazine and so I feel behind the times. What is possibly ironic is that for the last couple of years I would pick up the occasional copy of Men's Health because I felt that I was finally getting up to date articles on FDA approved diets, foods, vitamins and other health related OTC drugs, as well as updated fitness routines. Thankfully the same information can be found and how it relates to a woman's system here.

I've also read the one and two star reviews of the magazine and the reviews that condemn this magazine and touted 'Shape' instead left me scratching my head. I had a subscription for several years to 'Shape' in college and ultimately turned my back on it as I found it to be superficial featuring a famous thin model/celebrity who was never particularly known for their athletic ability as the big selling point. It also bothered me that every other ad was for a magic diet pill/supplement that was eventually done away with after an expose on some news program listing a litany of problems.

A health magazine should be about health: getting it and keeping it and warn the public against a quick fix. I also like to see exercise and fitness emphasized more heavily than fashion. Which is exactly what I got here. Ultimately I want to be healthy and feel good for a long, long time. I also want to keep up to date on current methods for maintaining this goal. I really believe I get current and effective information and advice here. Other women's health/fitness magazines felt to me more like they were compeating with Cosmo and Glamour type magazines.

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If you're looking at ordering this magazine because you've been reading your boyfriend's Men's Health, really enjoyed the work-out and health tips, and you said to yourself "Huh they make a version for women, I should order it." DON'T! Reading Women's Health is like reading Cosmo, filled with celebrities, causal language and make-up tips (not to mention advice for men probably gleaned from Men's Health so that you can surprise your boyfriend?). Don't waste your time on this vapid stuff.

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Australian Patchwork & Quilting

I am an experienced quilter and am familiar with many of the quilting publications currently on the market. In my opinion this is certainly one of the very best. Beautiful quilts for all skill levels and excellent instructions. Exciting patterns and outstanding use of color. Very inspiring.

Sadly, it is hard to find on news stands or in US quilt shops, and the subscription price in the US is very high. But, if you have the money to invest in one really good magazine, this is it.

While I truly love this magazine, it should only sell for about $9.00 per issue. Buy it on the newsstands or quiltshops and get their subscription card.

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Hi: I am a brand new quilter and have had a chance to read and get some samples from one of your magazinez, I am really happy with my experience and would like to see if you can direct me as of where I can find a particular volume.

I am looking for the August 2002 magazine which features a Butterflies Quilt, which I would like to reproduce for my home.

If any one can assist me with this I will appreciate it.

The other thing I find in your magazine is that give easy instructions on how to which is very helpfull when you are starting this kind of business for the first time.

Thank you very much for sharing with Us such a good publication.

Sincerely

Maria

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Family Circle (1-year auto-renewal)

I have subscribed to FC for many years and had a fantastic renewal opportunity through FrugalGirls.com

Highly recommend this magazine and Frugal Girls you'll love them!

This magazine is a classic for me. Crafts and recipes galore and decorating ideas too!!

Always a favorite for me.

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I love all the recipes in this magazine. I will continue to get this magazine for a long time to come.

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Family Circle has been one of my favorite magazines for many years and now my cousin's daughters love it, too! They are always trying out the recipes for family get-togethers.

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I have enjoyed reading this magazine for many years because of the diversity of its contents. I was so happy to see that AMAZON had such a good deal to buy FAMILY CIRCLE magazine that I immediately bought it and now am happy to have a 2 year subscription to a favorite magazine.

THANKS AMAZON!

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