letter from the editor welcome to appalachian country living magazine From the Editor’s Desk: Reflections on a Year of Transformation
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Amethyst Bush El | contact@aclivingmagazine.com
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As the golden leaves of autumn PUBLISHER gracefully Alice Sexton | Blue Ridge Media Group surrender to alice@blueridgemediagroup.com the crisp chill of winter, we find ourselves at the threshold of a HISTORY EDITOR new year, bidding Leslie Barker Thomas | PresHist@etcmail.com adieu to 2023 with the Oct/ Nov 2023 issue and welcoming AD INQUIRIES Swingin’ Grapevine Throwback from June 30th the promise of 2024 Ikelan Helms El | ads@aclivingmagazine.com with the Dec/Jan issue. It is with both nostalgia and excitement that I share this letter with you. The past nine months have been nothing short of invigorating, a rollercoaster ride filled with surprises and a true test of time, as we embarked on the journey of ALL INQUIRIES expanding this beloved 20-year-old print magazine. Today, I want to take a moment Amethyst Bush El | contact@aclivingmagazine.com to reflect on this remarkable year, the lessons we’ve learned, and the path we’ve forged. Our journey in 2023 has been akin to navigating uncharted waters, discovering the hidden gems within the Appalachian region while overcoming the turbulence of LAYOUT/DESIGN change. We’ve delved into the heart and soul of this enchanting region, celebrating Amethyst Bush El | contact@aclivingmagazine.com its culture, traditions, and the indomitable spirit of the people. We’ve showcased the breathtaking landscapes, and we’ve delved deep into the stories of the extraordinary individuals who call this place home. We’ve savored the flavors of Appalachian cuisine, and we’ve tapped into the creative wellspring of artisans and craftsmen. CHIEF OF SALES AND MARKETING ...but, like any transformation, this year hasn’t been without its challenges. We’ve WZDM Management Agency LLC made our fair share of mistakes along the way, and we’ve faced adversity head-on. Ikelan Helms El | contact@wzdmatl.com Yet, in the spirit of our Appalachian ancestors we admire so much, we’ve learned from these missteps, grown stronger, and emerged wiser. One of the most profound lessons we’ve taken from this year is the power of community. Appalachia has always been a place where neighbors look out for each other, where kinship is cherished, and where bonds are unbreakable. In our journey to expand this magazine, we’ve witnessed this spirit of togetherness in action. The support and loyalty of our readers, contributors, and partners have been our guiding stars. As we turn the page into 2024, we do so with renewed determination and a deep sense of gratitude. We’ve listened to your feedback and embraced your suggestions. We’ve celebrated the stories you’ve shared with us and the connections you’ve made through our pages. And in the process, we’ve discovered that Appalachian Country Living Magazine is not just ink on paper; it’s a living testament to the spirit of Appalachia itself. In the coming year, you can expect more stories that resonate with your hearts, more breathtaking photography that captures the essence of this land, and more APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING MAGAZINE insights into the culture that defines this remarkable region. We will continue to PO Box 1250, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 evolve, adapt, and grow, always with your interests at the forefront. 706. 953. 3272 As we say farewell to 2023 and step into the winter months of December PLEASE and January, let us remember that every season brings its unique beauty and RECYCLE contact@aclivingmagazine.com challenges. Just as the landscape transforms with the changing of the leaves, so www.aclivingmagazine.com do we continue to evolve, learn, and grow. Together, we will face the coming year with resilience, passion, and Appalachian Country Living Magazine is published six times a year. All rights reserved under International and Pan-American copyright conventions. Reproduction of this work in whole or in part without the an unwavering faith in the future of Appalachian Country written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Appalachian Country Living is printed in the Living Magazine. United States of America. The articles contained in this magazine are works of journalism and do not represent the opinions or ideas of Appalachian County Living Magazine and the publisher assume no Thank you for being a part of this journey. May your responsibility for the content of advertisements. While we welcome submissions, the magazine is not holiday season be filled with warmth and joy, and may responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Please do not send originals. The magazine is given away free by advertisers and at selected businesses in the region. A one year subscription is $20 per 2024 be a year of new beginnings, shared stories, and year for six issues. For renewals, new subscriptions, or any other correspondence, write to PO Box 1250 cherished memories. With gratitude and best wishes, ACLM Blue Ridge, GA 30513.
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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING MAGAZINE | ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
