Starting Point: It was bound to happen.

For years I shopped at a neighborhood grocery. Run by a Vietnamese family, it had a fresh fish market, wonderful vegetables and even a bakery in back.

Not long ago a sign announced they had lost their lease. My heart sank not only for the loss of familiar friends, but for what I suspected would take their place: a video store and a half dozen fast-food outlets.

Indeed a few months later the aisles were crammed, not with apples and oranges, but videotapes of every hue and color. Suddenly I realized that the values question for video is not what's available, but what we choose to buy or rent. I hope this issue helps you and those you care about to better evaluate the potential and challenge that this new technology offers. And to make wise choices about its present and future use.

Not only is video growing fast — so is the movement behind Media&Values! We are very pleased to announce major new funding from a variety of foundations, religious organizations and generous donors. Their support will help advance the goals and objectives of our Second Decade Development Plan.

You can do some things that will help, too: renew your subscription promptly; show the magazine to librarians and others (and give them the tear-out order card that you find in each issue); write us for free flyers you can distribute at conferences or workshops you attend.

And if you're on the planning committee for a national convention or regional conference, consider inviting a Media&Values speaker for your event. See the back cover for details on our new national Speakers Team which can excite and empower your audience to better understand life in the media age.