Up Front

For me, it’s hard to imagine, but here we are. Most people tell me they don’t remember a time without Wrightsville Beach Magazine in their homes or offices. Children have grown up with us always there. During November, I spoke with a man who said that when he moved to town, he learned the history of Wilmington through reading our magazine. 

And, you’ll find two history features in this very issue.

We never set out to do this great thing we’ve done — we just wanted to be more excellent every month. And month after month, year after year, we have been. Through the years, a good number of fabulous people have worked with us, plus we have had a stellar run of interns, many of whom have gone on to do amazing things.

Now, it is with great sadness that just a few months shy of 20 years with the magazine, director of photography Allison Potter is moving on to new things. While we can’t imagine life without Allison working alongside us every day, we can look back on a very, very beautiful run together. And we have the pictures to prove it.

Including this month’s Home of Distinction, a fabulous home all aglow for Christmas. The story of why the dock has been so beautifully decorated is a great read. It has also been a wonderful “Christmas present” to the community. Those traveling onto Wrightsville across the causeway fixed bridge need only look to their right to see this amazing holiday display.

Everywhere I go, people are super excited about Christmas again. Jesus Christ, the Hope of the world, is of course the reason for the season. But I also believe our celebrating this year is extra special for so many because we all just want to feel the joy of Christmas.

Speaking of joy, we have the story of Dr. Bill and Gail Salling’s sharing of their Summer Rest property with others for many years and the joy celebrated there with 25 spectacular weddings.

Always a big fan of reading, I am delighted to tell the story of the return of the Fiction to Fashion runway show. Foodies will love the feature on Taste of Wrightsville, the annual fundraiser for the faith-based Weekend Meals on Wheels that provides meals to seniors on weekends.

And, as you plan your holiday meal, notice which of the traditional foods on your tables this year are grown right here in our state.

I can’t let this issue go by without acknowledging all who voted to elect me to the school board in New Hanover County. I am thankful and so grateful for your faith and trust in me. Getting to this point was not easy, and I realize the road ahead is paved with challenges, but I am stepping out in faith knowing Who always is my rear guard.

Merry, Merry Christmas everyone, my Christmas wish for you all is that your joy might be full.

 ­—Pat Bradford, Senior Editor/Publisher