4 minute read
Letter from the Publisher
Dear readers,
As I sit at my desk while the crisp fall air finally starts to settle in, I welcome November with open arms and a heart full of gratitude.
Maybe it’s the season or just the weight of our recent full moon energy, but I can’t help but feel the theme for this month is about finding our strength in letting go. In a world which constantly demands more from us, we often carry the weight of expectations, regrets, and the relentless pace of life on our shoulders. Too many of us are faced with mental challenges and depression either within ourselves or those who we cherish and love.
Letting go is not simply an act; it is an art form which invites us to examine our lives with clarity and intention. Whether it’s shedding old habits, moving on from relationships, or even creating space for new opportunities, the process can be liberating. Throughout this past month, our team explored various facets of letting go from multiple perspectives – mental, emotional, and spiritual.
Through the pages ahead we aim to inspire you through stories of local artists, performers, and creatives who have embraced the transformative power of release in their own journeys.
People like photographer Charley Windham, and his gracious approach to not only finding his own creativity, but through his lens finding the beauty in the chaotic rubble of abandoned buildings and the simple poetic gestures he sees in the faces of others.
People like Jason Ezell and the guys from the band Skydog Gypsy, who have learned to embrace their talents and perform these amazing shows in an effort to not only remember who they are as a group, but also to remember friends who no longer have the chance.
People like Miguel Juarez, whose humble passion for our local music scene shines through in each of his columns, which he writes while carrying the weight of not only being our Columbus Jazz Society president, but also a husband, father, worker and musician himself.
People like Nico Brooke and James Etchison, and our many local comedians who take the stage to prove to themselves that they are worthy of this world’s attention.
Our calendar also spotlights many events with practical approaches to letting go, such as mindfulness techniques, therapeutic practices, and community workshops. We invite you to join these events, which foster personal growth and connect you with others. There is immense power in sharing experiences, and our community thrives when we come together to support and uplift one another.
As we approach the holiday season, let us also remember the spirit of giving back. Consider how you might let go of excess in your life to support those in need. Whether through donations or volunteering, these acts of kindness not only help others but also foster a sense of purpose and connection.
Just as the leaves fall and nature begins its cycle of dormancy, it is the perfect time to reflect on what it means to release the burdens which no longer serve us.
I wish you a month of reflection, gratitude, and growth. Let us move forward together, embracing the lessons of the past while welcoming the possibilities of the future.
Thank you for reading,
Monica Jones
What We Are All About.
The mission of the LocaL magazine is to bring you the best in art, music, food and fun from Columbus and the surrounding area. Locally owned and operated, we work to improve and expand community relationships through promoting positive events, people and stories. When good things are happening, we will be here to help you get involved. Our monthly print issues feature stories and events that comprise and drive the ongoing surge toward a more beautiful community. This magazine exists because we who work on it believe in actively engaging with community improvement, and we invite you to join us, not only by reading these pages, but also by taking part in any of the many wonderful events we feature.
