letter from the publisher
I’m proud to be sharing this 28th anniversary issue with you. I couldn’t be more grateful for this amazing journey, and fortunately, I’ve learned a thing or two along the way. I’m proud to say we’ve overcome more bumps in the road than I care to mention. As I reflect, I know the goals set for WestCoast a long time ago required some sacrifices, and we experienced many unexpected surprises along the way. Some paid off and others taught us valuable lessons. One thing that remains the same is I’ve been sustained by my abiding faith in a power greater than my own.
My associates are some of the most devoted, caring, and trustworthy people I know. I can’t say enough about our art director, Rob Centilla, who oversees concepts, design, and digital products. He’s been a part of WestCoast magazine for over 27 years. Carla Szczuka, our events editor, is not only a great liaison with the community, she has assisted over the last 26 years in one form or another wherever she’s needed. Kelly Martin, our copy editor, has proven that editing an article to better understand an author’s intended message and improve the clarity of their words is truly an art.
Our advertising representatives are a caring group who are as equally loyal to WCM as they are to their clients. I’m honored that all of our talented contributing writers are committed to sharing their expertise with all of us. Our group is small but gifted, and they bring fresh ideas to WestCoast magazine. Meet the people behind the scenes on page 64.
Publishing is sometimes mischaracterized as an industry that’s unresponsive to change. That’s hardly the case, as we’ve proven over the years. Whether we’re highlighting features, introducing new sections, or producing new online experiences for our clients, we’re committed to making modifications. We’re consistently reinventing, exploring, and experimenting as the community needs change.
I’ve learned that success is a product of innovation, not complacency. That’s why we’re doing it again, setting a new benchmark for WestCoast magazine.
We’re acutely aware of how our readers consume content and how our partners want to connect with audiences. To that end, we’re evolving stylistically and editorially to present our content in an engaging, reader-friendly manner that reflects our communities through print and social media platforms. If you would prefer to get your WestCoast magazine online, please sign up today at www.wcmagazines.com. We’re working on getting new local information to you in a faster, more meaningful way.
Regardless of whether you like us online or prefer us in print, you’ll see we haven’t strayed from our values and appreciation of community. Whatever roads we travel, our core mission will always be to connect, captivate, and celebrate our communities.
I’m eternally grateful to all of our supportive advertisers and readers. It’s because of you that we can continue to do what we love.
To those who have been with us over many years, I thank you for bringing us into your home. For those of you just joining us for our 28th anniversary issue – welcome!
Until next time – make every day count and create memories with the people you love.
