From the Editor
In November, I spend a little more time being grateful; that turkey-centric holiday supplies plentiful reminders. I’m grateful other months too, of course, but this month I’m more mindful, more reflective, more intentional. I try to share the results, too, rather than just sit in a silent, contemplative state of gratitude.
To that point: I’m very grateful for each of you, our readers. Communicating with you is the whole point—you’re why we write, design, print, and publish. Thank you for paging through this—and every—issue.
I’m also grateful for our editorial staff, and for my place among them. It’s a great team to work with, and CAMP Rehoboth is a terrific organization to be a part of as we do that work. (Speaking of which—fresh from a Board retreat, this issue includes CAMP Rehoboth Board Vice President Leslie Ledogar’s update on the organization’s new strategic plan.)
A hearty “thank you” also to our writers—an ever-growing cadre of eclectic folks with lots to say. Some of them share their own thoughts on gratitude this month; take a look at Pattie Cinelli’s column or read Wes Combs’ mention of gratitude jars. Perhaps you’ll be inspired to fill one of your own?
Personally, as the Transgender Day of Remembrance falls just a few days after this issue is published, I’m especially grateful for one of our features this issue: Nancy Sakaduski’s interview with photographer B. Proud. Proud’s work honors transgender individuals and families, and Nancy’s piece—“Making a Difference”—includes three of Proud’s photos and the stories she wrote to accompany them. We have other trans-related coverage, too—Sharon Morgan writes about transgenderism across time and cultures, and Terri Schlichemeyer reviews Letter to My Transgender Daughter.
November 16 was the Great American Smoke-out, which inspired epidemiologist Stephanie Belinske to write about the rise of vaping, even as smoking rates decline. And Beth Shockley invites us in as she pries herself loose from nicotine—in any form—at last.
About that turkey-day I mentioned earlier: a few of our writers had suggestions that may help us all enjoy it a bit more. Ed Castelli has hints for entertaining—it’s not your grandma’s party, anymore. We have a menu suggestion from Stephen Raskauskas, and Rich Barnett offers the perfect cocktail. Maybe you’d like some grow-your-own at the table? Eric Wahl offers some ideas for edible landscaping. National Cookie Day follows shortly after Thanksgiving; Tara Lynn Johnson reflects on one of her favorites, which comes with a message as well as a crunch.
All this—and so much more. Thanks again for reading.
Questions or comments—you can reach me at editor@camprehoboth.com. ▼