I’VE LOST COUNT of the number of times I’ve heard people say, “I’m so tired of hearing negative news.” I’ve uttered the same words myself. It’s important to keep up on what’s occurring in our world, even when it’s distressing, but it’s equally as important — if not more so — to see stories that inspire, touch our hearts, make us laugh, make us think. Those are the tales we strive to tell in Extol, and this issue is no exception.
On page 32 you’ll find a tribute to former WHAS11 anchor Melissa Swan, who recently retired from television and is about to embark on an exciting new chapter in her life. While some of that includes work, the Leavenworth native also plans to spend a bit of R&R with her husband (and a new puppy) at their residence in her hometown.
If anyone understands the state of our community, it’s Charlie Smith, the Building & Development Association of Southern Indiana’s executive officer. We grilled him with questions (page 50) and he answered honestly. Read his words and I’m betting you’ll walk away filled with hope.
One of my favorite reads in this issue of Extol is penned by Life in Progress Columnist Ray Lucas, who offers several words of wisdom to his daughter, Olivia, on page 54. Even though my own little one, whose name is Olive, was only born in January, Ray inspired me to start compiling my own list of “small” life lessons for her. I’m also going to try a few of his suggestions. Maybe you’ll consider doing that, too.
Lastly, even though it’s not represented in these pages, every month, the Extol team invites anyone to join us in providing food and fellowship for those who are homeless with Exit 0, the Jeffersonville-based outreach. For the past year and a half, we serve dinner to those in need on the fourth Thursday of every month. If you want to join us, just send an email to extol@extolmag.com.
Yours truly,
Angie Fenton
Editor in Chief
Extol Magazine
