The AP Stylebook 2003 marks golden anniversary by being the fastest.

As an editor and writer, I cannot imagine a better spent $12.50--or $20 a year for online, interactive access--than having The AP Stylebook within arm's reach. It's the "fastest-acting" reference book I own.

Although the first version of the Associated Press' AP Style Book was published 50 years ago, in July 1953, Norm Goldstein, its editor since 1980, said he regards the 1977 version as "the benchmark for future editions."

The name of the 2003 edition also reflects the evolution of the seminal and influential stylebook, The AP Stylebook and Briefing on Media Law (With Internet Guide and Glossary).

Produced by the world's leading news agency, the manual is described as "an essential handbook for all writers, editors, students and public relations specialists.

"The 2003 edition provides a special section on internet and computer terms as well as fundamental guidelines on spelling grammar, punctuation and usage, with special sections on reporting business and sports. Included is an updated guide to media law."

The AP Stylebook is available in print in a spiral-bound edition. A searchable, web-based version is also available. Subscribers may save their own notes and examples along with convenient online access.

Site licenses are also available on a searchable PDF or HTML for an intranet system.

For more information or to purchase a copy, go to www. apbookstore.com--which also offers many other guides and handbooks, including AP Guide to Punctuation, AP Guide to Newswriting, AP Reporting Handbook, and AP Internet Research and Reporting.