THE EARTH HAS COMPLETED ANOTHER CIRCUIT AROUND THE sun since your humble scribe became managing editor of this publication, and so it is time for another victim – sorry, volunteer – to assume supreme editorial power at what I think I can describe without fear of contradiction as Yurakucho’s best English-language magazine.

At this writing I don’t know who that lucky person will be. But here are some tips and observations I’d like to pass on to my successor at No. 1:
1. The members of the FCCJ constitute an incredible resource. Develop story ideas by talking to them about their past experiences and what they’re doing now, and remember that journalists (at least the ones I’ve met) love writing about themselves.
2. Try to find the stories behind the stories. Reading about the hassles, adventures and amusing anecdotes involved in a story’s gestation can sometimes be more interesting than the published tale itself.
3. Remember that No. 1 Shimbun is the flagship publication of one of the world’s best press clubs – set your editorial goals accordingly high.
4. You are the boss. Listen to what Club members have to say about the mag and make the right political/bureaucratic moves when you have to, but never forget that the editorial buck stops with you.
5. The AP Stylebook is probably the best guide to journalistic usage around. Study it and use it.
6. Notwithstanding the separation between “church” and “state,” do what you can to get more paid ads in No. 1.
7. An editor’s most effective motivational tool is guilt (praise has also been known to work on occasion).
8. Don’t let deadlines be dreadlines: Keep smiling, and above all, don’t panic.

Thanks very much to my No. 1 colleagues and all of you at the Club who have made my stint as No. 1 managing editor such a rewarding experience. Now read on…