Publisher’s Letter
It always seems that November and December zip by at lightning speed, signaling that another year is coming to a close. And I’m sure that just like me, you too find yourself reflecting on your noteworthy achievements in 2014— what you did right, what you improved and what milestones you accomplished. What I’m most proud of is the recognition TOTI Media received as the No. 1 Magazine Publisher in Lee County for Lee County. The support from the community, our readers and online followers who gave us this ranking is overwhelming and something we as a team are very proud of receiving.
I believe that our success is a result of how we interact with you— our subscribers, our advertisers, the community and of course our partners and the entire TOTI Media team. Oftentimes it’s your input that makes a difference. We listen to you, and when an opportunity presents itself to support community endeavors like the new Gulfshore Opera, a nomadic opera company that will hold its first season of performances this November, we are on board to get the word out and introduce readers to yet another great cultural asset. ( See Marching to a
New Beat on page 79.) Working with a highly motivated team makes for not only a happy day in the office, but for success. Cordial greetings in the morning and wishes for a safe journey home at the end of the day are just small ways in which we say, “Hey, I’m looking forward to another great day in the office tomorrow.” It’s also an important step to building a stronger team.
It was not long ago that I was asked, “Aren’t you lucky having such a great team?” Well, I said, luck is what everyone receives once in a while. I think I am blessed having a great team of professionals who have the ability and talent, and are diligently doing their best. This is how we serve our community, by doing the very best to help our neighbors, ourselves and those closest to our hearts.
As we wrap up the year, our focus turns to the holidays, that special time of giving. Of course, what comes to mind first is the gift list, a chance to buy that present you hope your family members and friends will treasure. It’s a great tradition to exchange gifts, but also if you look around, there are many other ways to give, from toy drives to numerous volunteer opportunities. Doing so with your children or with a group of friends helps everyone to reconnect and strengthen the bonds between each other.
Think of it as a pause from the fast- paced, and somewhat turbulent, world we live in today as well as a way to create a more positive and well- balanced environment going forward. My wish for the season is that everyone grows closer with their family and friends, creating a safe haven where your needs are met and your days are more peaceful.
This holiday season when you gather family and friends, you might want to consider doing so at Fort Myers’ latest hot spot: Belushi’s. On page 36, you can read all about the live comedy and music club opened by Jim Belushi, the brother of the famous Blues Brother John Belushi and a comedian, musician and actor himself. If you’re lucky, you might just be there on a night when Jim’s in town and takes the stage! Lastly, this issue wouldn’t be complete without our Holiday Shopping Guide to help you navigate the retail scene. Whether you’re looking for gourmet food items or an exquisite gift, we’re sure you’ll find it at these specialty stores.
From all of us at TOTI Media, we wish you a season filled with good cheer, family and friends and most of all, lots of love. Daniela E. Jaeger Publisher, TOTI Media