Minneapolis, September 2009 – Greenspring Media Group has named Joel Hoekstra as Editor of Minnesota Monthly, the company’s flagship publication. A longtime Twin Cities journalist who joined the magazine in 2005, Hoekstra will oversee all editorial operations of the publication and will assume the post immediately.

Hoekstra has worked as a writer and editor in the Minneapolis-St. Paul region for nearly two decades, most recently as Minnesota Monthly‘s Managing Editor. He joined the staff four years ago, as Senior Editor, and has overseen the launch of the magazine’s “Top Doctors for Women” franchise, among other projects. Prior to joining the magazine, he worked as a freelance writer and editor, contributing to such national and regional publications as Metropolis, Chicago magazine, This Old House magazine, Experience Life, Architecture Minnesota, and Northwest Airlines’ World Traveler. He is a graduate of St. Olaf College in Northfield.

“It’s un-Minnesotan to brag, but I think our state may be as close to paradise-on-earth as you could ever find. Ten thousand lakes, great and generous people, dozens of kinds of food on a stick—what’s not to like about this state?” said Hoekstra. “I’m delighted to have the chance to helm a magazine that celebrates this great state and its residents.”

“We are fortunate to have someone of Joel’s talent, experience, and intimate knowledge and familiarity of our market and readers to take over the leadership of the state’s oldest lifestyle magazine, said Steve Fox, president of Greenspring Media Group and publisher of Minnesota Monthly. “We don’t have to hit the reset button to get someone up to speed; instead, we have an editor who can embellish all of our editorial accomplishments while taking us to fresh and exciting new places.”

Minnesota Monthly is an award-winning publication dedicated to exploring the life and culture of the Twin Cities, the state of Minnesota, and the Upper Midwest. The magazine, which reaches more than 190,000 readers each month, covers dining, travel, health, the arts, and more, and regularly features contributions by the region’s best writers. The magazine is currently celebrating its 42nd year of publication.

Greenspring Media Group publishes Minnesota Monthly as well as several other magazines, including Midwest Home, Drinks, Real Food and multiple custom publications. In addition to the publishing segment of its business, Greenspring Media Group produces signature special events including the Minnesota Monthly Food and Wine Experience, Luxury Home Tours and the Midwest Home Show.