Winter Garden Magazine November 2016 | Page 3

Editor’s Note It’s November, and the obvious thing that should be on our minds is the idea of being thankful. Being thankful means being grateful, and we give you a look at the health benefits of gratitude (pg. 36). Being thankful also means you understand that there are people suffering and battling things like Alzheimer’s (pg. 22), Diabetes (pg. 16) and dealing with the after effects of Hurricane Matthew (p. 14). It’s more than understanding – it’s connecting with their stories and realizing that we’re all in this together. While November leads us to the happiest time of the year, it begins with a responsibility that we must all take very seriously. Not only is the right to vote and deciding how the country will move forward one of those inalienable rights that we were bequeathed by our forefathers, it is a privilege. Do not forget to exercise your right to vote on November 8th. cee castillo [email protected] Editor-in-Chief Cee Castillo [email protected] Director Brett Dault [email protected] Contributors Michelle L. Curtis Bruce Collins Brett Dault Billy Flanigan Samantha Rhodes Stephen Scarborough Jane E. B. Simmons Marion Wildey And as you are voting, keep in mind how important it will be for those of us in the WG to vote for The Best of Winter Garden (pg. 51). There are just so many amazing places to eat, places to see, things to do, and amazing service providers. Vote!!! Vote your heart out! Show these people some love... we are looking for your write-ins, your vote, your Best of Winter Garden. Another great way to show that you’re thankful is to embrace the beautiful things in life like young love (pg. 9), great food and drink (pg. 24, 34 and 38 – we clearly love to eat and drink around these parts), fun (pg. 20 and pg. 25), youth (pg. 40), art (pg. 32) and wonderful people coming together for a noble cause (pg. 43). When I think of being thankful and about gratitude, I think of our veterans (pg. 11 and pg. 18) and what they’ve sacrificed and continue to sacrifice for our country, our state, and right here in Winter Garden. In such a tumultuous time, it’s important to remember that ultimately it is people that can bring about positive change in this world, and it is the human costs that matter at the end of the day. Show your gratitude and be thankful today by going out and living, and making your circle of influence better than it currently is. And as for what I personally am thankful for, I cannot express the depth of my gratitude to our WG community. Thank you to every reader, both online and in print. I am so humbled and proud to think of our words being read by you. I am thankful! And for the outpouring of support for Bachelors for Boobies – I am overwhelmed with gratitude! Great things in store WG! Great things! Remember to stay safe during holiday shopping – Black Friday is better with a buddy. And, as much as you can SHOP LOCAL! Thank you Graphic artists Jules Franzese George Hevel, IV Kalib Martin to our Bachelor for Boobies Sponsors! Illustration Taylor Mobley Photography MICHAEL’S ALI coal fired pizza Samantha Rhodes Jules Franzese Contact Us 13640 W. Colonial Drive, Suite 160 Winter Garden, FL 34787 [email protected] For adveritisng opportunities, please contact: [email protected] Elizabeth O’Keefe NOVEMBER 2016  |  WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE   |  3