Welcome to 2010. An entire decade is now behind us. Considering what we encountered as a planet over the last 10 years, that's probably not a bad thing! Then again, 2002 was the year I launched Concrete Wave, and we're still standing. At times like this, of such unpredictability and volatility, I am glad I have my family, friends, and skateboarding. I sense you feel exactly the same way.

I chose the above photo because it combines so many things in one image. I love how the photo showcases not just skateboarding, but also words illumi- nated against classic architecture. It is truly a stunning piece, and it fits perfectly as a metaphor for the combination of digital and real-world.

This is also something I feel we accomplish with the publication of each issue. By using the power of the Web, we harness the creative energy of dozens of writers and photographers from around the world. This is one of the reasons that Concrete Wave is truly a unique publication. We want to keep improving your experiences with the magazine. To this end, we have undertaken three significant steps forward:

We have revamped our entire website. Thanks to the hard-working folks at DangerDynamite.com, we now have a website that brings us into the new decade. It’s a nice layout, easy to navigate and best of all, you can see all the ads from the current issue — complete with links! Thank you, Frank Collins, for an awesome job.

We launched an iPhone Application. This was something I had been trying to get rolling for quite some time. You can view featured artists and photog- raphers, along with ads, and post a pic or words on the “wall” section. But the real benefit of the application is that a number of retailers are offering spe- cial offers. Just visit the iTunes Store and search for Concrete Wave. You’ll find us!

We’ve teamed up with the 2010 Warped Tour to help non-profits. This is a signif- icant departure for the magazine, but we know it will increase our exposure. Thanks to the tremendous support of our sponsors, we’ll be at every stop of the Tour. Make sure you stop by our booth and get involved in learning more about some of the amazing non-profits at the Tour. You’ll learn more about what we plan to do, but suffice to say we’re giving away more than $50,000 in prizes during the Tour.

We have lots more surprises to come. My sincere thanks to all who support Concrete Wave. I get the feeling this is going to be a spectacular year...and decade!

Enjoy the issue,
Michael Brooke, Publisher/Editor