Xtra! gets a brand new look

The Ottawa version of Xtra!, the gay and lesbian publication, has undergone a dramatic redesign. A digital version is available. And the new design regime -- the first since 1998 -- will be rolled out in Toronto and Vancouver the week of March 25th.

The current issue of the Ottawa edition has a cover story on how increasingly conservative neighbourhood associations in the national capitol are collaborating with the police to impose ever-more invasive measures to the detriment of the poor, homeless , the gay and lesbian community and many other manifestations of street culture.

The paper, published by Pink Triangle Press, which also publishes Fab magazine, was called "Capital Xtra" in Ottawa and Xtra! West in Vancouver, but no more; Managing editorpublisher Brandon Matheson says "We have dropped the "Capital" and "West" monikers, to highlight what has been the consistent indentity/brand."

The redesign process was led by editorial director Matt Mills. The new look has larger and more lavish photo and illustration, yet without clashing with the logo, says the magazine. There's a new front of the book section called Roundup and greater integration between the print edition content and online (Xtra.ca). A new body font, Chronicle Text, uses space more efficiently and readably; display copy is Prelo and Prelo Slab.New navigation symbols direct readers to further information online, chat, and media (video etc.)

Among the redesigned sections are the news section Upfront and Out in the City, covering arts, culture and entertainment.