New Heights to showcase Old Neighborhoods

New magazine highlighting the best of Tampa’s “Heights” neighborhoods set to launch

TAMPA, Fla., (Nov. 19, 2007) – New Heights, a new magazine that will highlight the businesses, people and events of Seminole Heights, Tampa Heights, downtown Tampa, Ybor City and surrounding neighborhoods, has been announced by its founder, editor and publisher, Jay McGee. It will launch Tampa-wide early 2008 and be available in hardcopy and web versions (http://www.newheightsmag.com/).

McGee, a Seminole Heights resident, said he began the project in 2006 when he noticed several publications were focusing on other areas of Tampa, but none were dedicated to where he chose to live and shop.

“The people in these neighborhoods have worked hard to achieve the level of revitalization that we enjoy today,” said McGee. “The changes are hugely evident and New Heights is going to showcase them in print for all of Tampa to see.”

Indeed, these areas have seen a lot of change in recent years. Many of their historic homes have been renovated and they’ve had popular new businesses open, like Grass Root Organic Restaurant and Tampa Street Market. Further changes are also planned, including the redevelopment of Hutto’s Corner, as well as the opening of Print (a private, members-only club) and Sangria's Tapas Bar & Restaurant.

Many Tampa residents have expressed to McGee their enthusiasm for New Heights via calls and emails, like one from Alan Badia that reads, ”[I] am very excited to see this magazine. It's about time! Where will I be able to pick one up?”

As an avid contributor to the Seminole Heights and Tampa Heights blogs, McGee has experience writing about neighborhood happenings, which he often sees first hand when biking to and from downtown Tampa, where he holds a job as the director of public relations for a local agency. In that role, his writings are published in numerous newspapers and nationwide magazines and he has built working relationships with many well known reporters.

But despite the professional relationships he’s built across the U.S., McGee stated New Heights’ contributors will be locals.

“Every day, since I informally announced the magazine November 13 via blog, I’ve been getting emails from people who want to contribute by writing, taking pictures, advertising or just plain ole lending a hand,” said McGee. “The experience has proven two things to me. One – our neighborhoods take care of those who take care of them. And two – we’re ready for our spotlight.”

Once launched, hardcopies of New Heights will be available free in magazine racks at storefronts across Tampa. Plans to distribute the publication door-to-door are also under development.

For more information about New Heights Magazine, contact Jay McGee, (813) 389-8116 or visit http://www.NewHeightsMag.com/.