“We have 25 pounds of content for a 10-pound pack,” he says. “One of the things that continues to delight me is the willingness of writers to participate with us in the endeavor. The writing community is behind this project and that kind of access is going to make the mag very strong.”

Noir Magazine’s Kickstarter campaign ends this Friday. Ye of disposable wealth click here.

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Interestingly, the mag will be available exclusively as a tablet app. We spoke with Clare, who explained that the decision to go tablet-only was only partially about keeping down costs.

“Cost is certainly a consideration in going to a tablet only format, at least in the beginning. (We would love to do a print version further down the line.) But it’s far more than cost: Rip and I really believe that the future of periodicals is in tablets. Not only does it make the distribution easier, it affords the reader a much richer experience. For example, if we are listing the songs mentioned in Jo Nesbo’s Harry Hole series, we can include samples of the songs; if we are doing a filmography of Sherlock Holmes movies we can include video. We can include clips of interviews we have with writers, directors, actors and actresses.”

Clare says initial plans are to put out 10 issues annually. The app and first issue should launch sometime in October.

Noir will definitely be contracting out work to freelance writers, photographers and designers, AND, bonus, bonus, Clare insists “They will be paid”– still not always a given in the world of electronic journalism.

To help with that endeavor, Noir  just launched a Kickstarter campaign. The pair are looking to raise $35,000 in 30 days. More info here.

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“I think it’s fair to say there were revenue issues,” she tells us. “It’s still a tough economic climate, especially for print. I don’t think they got rid of us because they don’t like us.”

The mag’s staff of seven will be let go. There’s no indication if positions will be available for them in other sections of the paper.

“I think the jury is still out. Part of what’s going on is a contraction. They’re contracting in the newsroom too. There’s nowhere to absorb us.”

Clare says the staff is handling the news stoically.

“There was no animosity or screaming. We’re professionals in a very small media market. Print is in a tough place right now. [The Times] is doing what they think is best. I obviously disagree. But I really appreciate that Russ Stanton gave us the opportunity to do this. When the previous editor was let go, he went out on a limb for us. And I think we’ve done some great stuff.”

The mag’s staff was only recently made aware of the imminent closure. Future plans are still up in the air. But Clare is confident everyone will land on their feet.

“I’m going to be working. And so will all of my people. I can’t sing the praises of my staff enough. Helene Goldsen is the best managing editor on Earth. [Design and Culture Editor] Mayer Rus is amazing. Rip Georges is a multi-award-winning designer. The young ones too…Raha Lewis with music…There’s only seven of us. We’ve been on a shoestring and the product we’ve produced is excellent.”

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‘LA’: Los Angeles Times Media Group Takes New Approach to Sunday Magazine Business

Annie Gilbar Named Editor-in-Chief

LOS ANGELES, July 28 — The Los Angeles Times Media Group announced today that it will begin publishing “LA” on September 7th, a monthly Sunday magazine, with Annie Gilbar named as editor-in-chief. Signaling a serious intent to competitively engage in the Southern California marketplace, “LA’s” look and attitude will celebrate the unique nuances of life in Los Angeles.

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