A New Day Begins Wisconsin

There are so many things I want to talk about, I don't know where to begin. They say you should begin at the beginning, so here goes... The first thing you'll have noticed about this issue of PTN is that we've slimmed down. (And isn't that something we're always putting at the top of our list of New Year's resolutions.) We've listened to our readers—who have asked for an easier to read, easier to carry magazine—and trimmed down from a tabloid, the size we've been for 71 years, to the magazine you're holding in your hands. And we'll still be bringing you the great editorial you've come to expect over the years.

Just as we've transformed PTN to adapt and change with the times, our cover story features six retailers—second generation owners who are by no means "kids." These folks bring with them fresh new ideas, a unique vision, and the ability to quickly adapt to change—taking their businesses into the digital future. Check out the story on page 12 to see how these "Young Guns" of the photo retail industry are succeeding.

Just as we were going to press, we heard the sad news that Herbert Keppler, one of the industry's most respected journalists had died. We put together a tribute to "Burt" that you'll find on page 49.

Later this month, we'll be at PMA. There are quite a few new digital cameras and other innovative products that are scheduled to be launched at the show. Exciting new models that will appeal to everyone from the professional photographer to the Gen-X mom next door. Having seen some of these cameras, we think they'll be generating quite a buzz in the months to come. A variety of new photofinishing solutions will also be making their debuts at the show.

PMA attendees can turn to the Cygnus PMA Show Daily each day to get the latest news and product introductions; and for those who couldn't make it to the show this year, check out our website at www.imaginginfo.com for the digital editions of the Cygnus PMA Show Daily that will be posted each day of the show and accessible for months to come.

For those of you attending PMA, feel free to stop by our Dealer of the Year reception, on Friday, February 1st, from 5:30p.m. – 7:00p.m., where we'll be honoring Tony Miresse, of Art's Cameras Plus as our Dealer of the Year for 2007. The reception will be held at the Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel, Ballroom 1. It's a short walk—the hotel is adjacent to the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

And, as you're walking the PMA tradeshow floor, drop by our booth: K161 to say hello. Not sure where it is? We've got the maps and exhibitor listing within this issue (see pages 40 – 48), to help you navigate the two floors of exhibitors.

Viva Las Vegas!

Best,