WSJ Launches Metro Section

Today marks the beginning of a new era in New York newspapers, or so Rupert Murdoch would have you believe.

After buying the Wall Street Journal three years ago, Murdoch made it his goal to destroy the New York Times. The first real shots in his war were fired today with the debut of the Journal’s Greater New York section.

So will the new section be enough to peel away the affluent readers whom Murdoch craves and needs? Only time will tell, but the first iteration is certainly promising. Good features on the art world and other upscale New York issues – rats on the UES, a $28 Million Tribeca penthouse – and on lower brow items like the optimal MetroCard swipe technique.

It is, of course, much too early to deem the move a success or a failure, but it is worth noting that The Times is not taking the threat lightly. A particularly defensive ad ran on local New York television stations, as well.

So, if you’re in the Metropolitan area, check it out. It might just be worth it.