Five issues of Downstate Story have been published, and a sixth is planned for fall, 1997. Each issue contains 10 original short stories with original illustrations.
Some issues also contain photographs from readings and other events.
The magazine carries no advertising, and relies on sales. It is sold on consignment through book stores and gift shops, and by mail. The money paid for advertising, mainly in publications of other arts groups such as theater programs. A volunteer board of directors oversees the magazine. Publisher Elaine Hopkins is a journalist with an interest in fiction, who also has taught college level literature courses.