Narrative journalism and essays the core of new Edmonton magazine Eighteen Bridges

A new cultural magazine called Eighteen Bridges is being launched in Edmonton. It has the tagline "Stories that connect" and describes itself as "a heady mix of narrative journalism and first-person essay" and contributors include local writers such as Timothy Caulfield, Lynn Coady, Marina Endicott, Curtis Gillespie, Sophie Lees and Paul Matwychuk. 

The magazine is co-founded by Curtis Gillespie and Lynn Coady and has had the support of the University of Alberta's Canadian Literature Centre. 

 Curtis Gillespie is an author and magazine writer, winner of three National Magazine Awards -- a gold and silver in 1999 and a silver in 2000 as well as being a finalist many times.  Coady is a novelist, editor, magazine writer and journalist who has been a finalist twice for the NMAs.

"We come into being with extensive ambitions in the spheres of cultural enrichment, political participation, and excellence in writing, and we have a clear plan to realize them," say the founders.

The launch event, co-presented by The Edmonton Literary Saloon and LitFest, Edmonton's non-fiction festival, takes place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 7 at the Matrix Hotel, 10001 107 Street in Edmonton.