In the Autumn 2024 Issue

Community has over a dozen meanings. You can be both a part of a local community and global communities. Part of a regional community, an artistic community, or an agricultural community. However defined, it seems that a core tenet is being a part of the lives within your given community. Caring, sharing, and supporting those in the community. After all humans create and participate in those communities.

So many of our articles this issue reference community, like every one of them! Suddenly a theme for our Autumn Harvest issue! I love when that happens organically. Truly. Specifically, 85th Day Food Community has assumed the reins of caring for the dock in Noank once known as Ford’s Lobster and renamed it Haring's Noank to honor the dock’s full heritage and value to the community; Frida in West Hartford takes their inspiration from Frida Kahlo to create a family environment while sharing their love of great Mexican food; Bank Square Books in Mystic has moved a short distance to better honor their commitment to the local community; Le Mazet, also in West Hartford serves French country favorites family style, bringing everyone at the table together; and Cato Corner in Colchester creates nationally recognized farmstead cheeses with support from the local community.

Astrid Sheckels @ Salmon Falls Gallery

Elsewhere, we love hearing from readers and advertisers. Regarding our summer article Gritty & Grand, John Johnson, owner of Thames River Art Gallery says, “I just wanted to tell you how much effect this article has had upon all of us here in New London. I don't think it's imagined that we all have gotten a little prouder of this city of ours as a result of your fab write-up about us.” Thank you, John, so nice to hear!

We also welcome new advertisers KDCROP Farms, a woman owned, and family run farm in Chaplin, CT, up in Windham County; and Salmon Falls Gallery in Shelburne Falls, MA, which is showing an exhibit I absolutely love featuring Astrid Sheckels: Watercolor Whimsy.

And remember, Labor Day was just the ceremonial end of summer. It can be sunny and bright in your heart and your community all year long. Life is, indeed, what you make it. Watch the classic surf flick “Endless Summer” this weekend and chart your own path, you decide if and when summer ends.

Love and fllight, 

R. Shane Kennedy
Publisher/Editor