Required Reading in First Class

Okay...I admit it. I fly in first class...a lot. Why? Because my profession requires me to practically live in the air and the airlines pamper their most frequent flyers. What does this have to do with Forbes magazine? Well....guess what's the first magazine that is always taken off the flight attendants pile as she walks down the aisle passing out magazines? Yep...Forbes...and there's a simple reason for that: damn fine content written with journalistic flair.

Whether you like Steve Forbes politics or not...you've got to admire the Forbes family...from founder B.C. Forbes...to the flamboyant Malcolm Forbes...or to his son, Steve...they definitely know how to put out a top-notch periodical. They've got some of the best business writers in the business...and they make business reading entertaining...not as dry and boring as you might expect.

Regardless of whether you're the President of a firm...or just starting out in the mailroom...there is a story for you here. And of course, the Forbes 400 ... which chronicles the rise and fall of the 400 richest individuals in America is a must read....if just to fantasize about that killer dot com idea you've got that will land you in the Forbes 400 next year.

Each issue profiles at least six different industries/companies...and there's a section on "leisure" as well...such as great vacation spots....or the best scotch money can buy. Even if you don't indulge...the reviews are well written.

Forbes also has former Defense Secretary (under Ronald Reagan) Casper Weinbarger as Publisher...and he writes an every issue column on the impact of foreign events on our country. I don't always agree with his take on events...but I always find them stimulating.

The "Brothers Forbes" also rate their favorite New York City restaurants each issue upfront in the editorial pages...with either a "go"..."consider"....or "stop" rating. Considering that the Zagat guide is for the masses....the Forbes brothers...with all their billions...surely play at the other end of the millpond. But guess what? Everyone reads their opinions...I've heard several colleagues say they tried a restaurant because they read about it in Forbes.

Now if only we could get them to post some of their reviews here at Epinions.com.....