As a regional magazine serving the Baltimore metropolitan area, we're almost obsessive in our focus on local people, events, trends, and ideas.

We sometimes write about national issues, but only those of immediate interest to our readers in Baltimore and surrounding counties.

We seek feature stories that are rich with character and drama or that provide new insight into local events. These stories range from 1,600 to 2,500 words. To propose one, send a query letter and clips.

Unless you already have a great set of feature clips and a powerful idea, though, the best way to break into Baltimore is through the shorter articles that run before and after the features, in the front of the book sections like Up Front, which run from 300-700 words. Another good place to start is our departments beat, such as "Hot Shots" and "Cameo." These stories range from 800 to 2,000 words. To propose one, send a query letter and clips.

Unsolicited personal essays are almost never accepted. We've printed only two over the past few years; the last was by a 19-year veteran city judge reminiscing on his time on the bench and the odd stories and situations he encountered there.

Unsolicited food and restaurant reviews, whether positive or negative, are likewise never accepted.

We generally develop story ideas ourselves and sometimes assign them to freelancers. To be considered for such assignments, send clips and a letter about your specialties.

Throughout the magazine we need originality, so don't propose anything that you've seen in The Sun, the Baltimore Business Journal, or other local media, unless you offer a fresh perspective or important new information. Because of our two-month lead time, we can't do much with breaking news.

You're most likely to impress us with writing that demonstrates how well you handle character, dramatic narrative, and factual analysis. We also admire inspired reporting and a clear, surprising style.

We strongly prefer receiving queries via e-mail.

If you use standard U.S. Mail, your query should fit on one page. If you want a response, you must include a stamped, self-addressed envelope with your submission.

Send correspondence to the appropriate editor listed below.

Thank you for your interest.

EDITORS
Max Weiss
Lifestyle, film, pop culture, general inquiries

Jane Marion
Food, travel

Lauren Bell
Style, home, beauty, wellness

Ken Iglehart
Business, special editions

Ron Cassie
Politics, environment, health, sports

Lydia Woolever
Calendar, events, party pages