I am emerging from a Job-like experience, where my captivity has turned, and my increase is overwhelming (Job 42).
As I write this, I’m back at my desk part time and by the time you read it (barring unforeseen circumstances) I hope to be back full time.
Most readers had no clue there had been a shift in magazine leadership for a year, and this speaks volumes about a business of any size whose employees can shoulder the loss of its leader, temporary or otherwise, and thrive. Thrive they did, under the watchful eye, hard work and dedication of Allison Potter, Kim Graham and Shawn Best. I am forever grateful.
Post lockdown, I do not see our team returning to an office building. As many businesses worldwide have done, we will continue working remotely, collaborating electronically, and limiting in-person meetings. It’s a luxury we are afforded by the nature of our work.
These last few days we have created a dedicated office for me street side, on the main level in my home. It is actually where the magazine was born over 21 years ago.
My first work duties, other than this monthly musing, include getting out to visit our advertisers in person whenever possible. In line behind our team who kept the magazine humming during my medical leave, my sincere gratitude goes out to our faithful advertisers. Wrightsville Beach Magazine remains the best read in town and the best platform to get an advertiser’s information into readers’ hands. If you are not yet doing business with each of them, I urge you to. The need for all of us to “shop local” has never been greater.
Another of my first duties was reading through these pages. In addition to a natural bug repellent primer, a tour of beach breakfast spots, a killer Home of Distinction, and Benny B and the Jamaican Surf Team attempting to qualify for Japan’s Olympic Games, this issue has another meaningful read by Wilmington native Robert Rehder, Where the River Runs Deep, A Day in the Life of a Cape Fear River Pilot.
This issue also showcases several local greeting card makers whose craft depicts area landmarks or scenery and wildlife. I love giving handmade cards, and I frequently use the creative cards of one of my favorite people, Wilmington’s Lisa Moore. Like the artists featured, she creates each of her unique and lighthearted cards by hand, they can be found at Mayfaire’s Going Local and Primrose Cottage at Monkey Junction. Off on a quick trip north, Lisa just texted me a photo of her airline carry-on bag with a May WBM peeking out of the side pocket.
My office hours are by appointment only as I ramp back up to lightspeed. Call me and let’s sit and talk. I am so enjoying this important part of my life again. In the meantime, happy Memorial Day, Father’s Day and happy summer at the beach!
Be blessed and highly favored in all you do.
Pat’s hair by Frank Potter and styled by Rob Asp, makeup by Regan Daughtry, Bangz Hair Salon