A Fukuokan's Notes from Sapporo

There are quite a few magazines focusing on local issues, such as horseracing, fishing, food. As far as I know, every single library stocks a couple of these locally published magazines. They are almost always available, meaning hardly anyone takes them home, whereas national magazines are rarely available for loan.

Among these publications, the most mysterious one is "Zaikai Sapporo" (I would translate it as "Sapporo business community").

I have never seen any of its back issues on loan. Even elderly gentlemen who seem to be regulars at the library and eagerly read newspapers don't seem to have an appetite for it. Without exception, every issue sits on the shelf.

Out of curiosity and in the hope of finding useful local details—since I mainly get my local news from supermarket flyers—I borrowed a copy. I found the contents surprisingly varied. A single issue covers:

- Local government news mainly on newly appointed managers,

- Local corporate updates, featuring salary comparisons by job category,

- Interviews with local figures, including entrepreneurs, entertainers, sports personalities,
- Newly opened and recommended restaurants, mainly in Susukino, never Makomanai. 

- Property ownership and investments

...and much more.

It is so broad, almost chaotic. Who is the target audience? I have absolutely no idea, and I didn't find anything useful for myself either. It doesn't matter to me who took management positions in the local government (though an article about the flamboyant mayor of Asahikawa was interesting, reminding me of his counterpart in Fukuoka).

I wish my local library would subscribe to Geijutsu Shincho or UP instead. That might actually attract new and younger visitors, or me, at least.