My Thoughts

This is my 25th December magazine issue. Celebrate With Us!

BY Pat Bradford

Published November 29, 2024|
This photograph brings back a lot of memories. It was taken at Tek Mountain for our 20th anniversary issue. For me it’s bittersweet, because I was wearing this jacket just a few weeks later when I was seriously injured. The orthopedic surgeon warned for a year and a half that I would be disabled for life, but the Chief Physician had other plans for me. WBM File Photo
This photograph brings back a lot of memories. It was taken at Tek Mountain for our 20th anniversary issue. For me it’s bittersweet, because I was wearing this jacket just a few weeks later when I was seriously injured. The orthopedic surgeon warned for a year and a half that I would be disabled for life, but the Chief Physician had other plans for me. WBM File Photo

Despite being second-generation in community startup publications, I never expected this to be my path. All I can say is I’ve just lived it day by day, week by week, and, wow, here we are.

I find it amazing to look back on two and a half decades of working with amazing team members to capture memorable stories for our readers. It’s been a huge privilege.

My favorite stories have included any with children, animals, water, flowers and trees. But I have to say the story of Blake Reynolds from our November 2024 issue is the one I’m most proud to have authored. When I learned of the story, I couldn’t say no. It’s such an important one to share. Writing this on Veterans Day, the need to help our special forces veterans is ever so pressing. If you haven’t yet read it, please do and share it far and wide. This is a story that matters. Let’s make a difference together.

As I look back through the dozens and dozens of photos of me published over those years on this page, it’s a little unnerving. A not readily obvious fact, I do not enjoy being photographed. The best part is all the fun things I got talked into doing by the team in order for the photos to be taken. We share a few of my favorites from over the years.

It would be an understatement to say the world has had a bumpy year, and we wanted a holiday issue to usher peace, love and joy into your homes, offices and lives.

2015
2018
2019
2019
2022
2022
Top left: Riding my bike for the October 2015 issue on C Street, Wrightsville Beach. Top center: New Year’s photo 2018 at Tek Mountain. Our Castle Branch shared workspace 2018-2020. Top right: Solar car racing at Cape Fear Community College North Campus for the September 2019 issue. I believe this is my favorite photo of all time. It was a blast. Above left: Kite flying in Wrightsville Beach Municipal Park in November 2019. Above center: Flying high at a special spot off Masonboro for the August 2022 issue. Above right: Rainy day Christmas wrapping for the December 2022 issue. WBM File Photos

Off the top, I am thrilled by the art of Katia Campbell. The depth, the colors and the beauty are just what I need this holiday season.

We have a look back at Christmas traditions in Wilmington, and the memorable snows on our beaches. There is a Christmas calendar to keep up with opportunities for you and your family this year locally.

I hope you enjoy Daniel Christian’s Antithesis of Anxiety and Fear. Personally, I found it to be a valuable tool to remain grounded.

Speaking of grounded, we have the story of amazing runner and coach Angela Downey, who at the age of 37 is training for the 2028 Olympics. Her story is nothing short of awe inspiring.  

In addition, our Home of Distinction is a stunning remodel in Landfall creating just a perfect forever home for a family.

Don’t miss my Great Aunt Myrtle’s Eclair Cake in our Savor.

’Tis the season for gratefulness and kindness to others! Be a blessing today.

—Pat Bradford, Senior Editor/Publisher







Leave a Comment