You're on the right track (Score 1)

In my opinion, reading is the best way to keep up and keep adding value to your skillset. One thing I realized I learned from college, and I think you learned as well, is how to learn. The best publication probably depends on what your programming interest is. There are so many choices out there. I am currently a .NET developer and I get a lot of advanced knowledge from MSDN magazine and some other websites like Code Project and Experts-Exchange. Experts-Exchange is a great way to help other people with their problems and learn things at the same time. Also, there is a certain publication that I read... Visual Studio Magazine. Now, IMHO, VSM is somewhat childish compared to other more sophisticated magazines, but I have to tell you that once in a while I will read an article that gives me a GREAT idea. But this is once in a while... like once a year. The thing I love about reading is that there is definitely a quantifiable payback from the time invested. It is not immediate, but it is certainly quantifiable. Like more $$$ and BMWs BABY!!!!!