Photo by Carlos Aristizabal
December is such a wonderful month. Florida’s heat has abated, palm trees are wrapped in twinkling lights, families and co-workers gather to celebrate, there’s a general festiveness in the air and it's my birthday month, as well as that of some of my favorite people. Last December was a different story, but now, with COVID-19 numbers lowering in South Florida and people taking necessary precautions, we can carefully resume rejoicing.
It’s an especially important December for me, as I’m elated to mark the 18th anniversary of The Boca Raton Observer. What began as a tabloid-size newsmagazine in 2003 with my young sons on the cover has flourished into a dynamic, award-winning magazine with a circulation of 278,000!
For those of the Jewish faith, eighteen is a very significant number that represents life. What’s more, in Jewish numerology, the numerical value of the word “chai” equals eighteen — in English, “chai” translates to “life.” For these reasons and more, eighteen has always been my favorite number. If you see a car pass you with a customized license plate with an “18,” it may be me zipping by!
I know we’ve all had personal struggles in these difficult times. I’ve battled a few of my own, only to come out stronger on the other side, thanks to the endless support of my family, friends, my beloved communities…lots of prayer and a little bit of luck!
In celebration, this Holiday Issue is a gloriously rich and decadent ode to life, love and luck. Start with our double cover highlighting two of South Florida’s most influential icons. One glance at the iconic, festive artwork "Boca Raton" — created exclusively for us by the one and only Romero Britto — and one can’t help but be infused with hope and happiness. I had the pleasure of chatting with my friend Romero for our wonderful “Then & Now” feature (page 98) catching up on what he’s been up to since he graced our cover in January 2004. Next up is the glamorous Gloria Estefan — featured in our cover story “On Her Feet” (page 82). I feel truly blessed to know Gloria personally and I have been a fan since I was a preteen. It’s tough to keep up with all that she does, but one thing is for certain, she’s a force brimming with life, passion and positive energy.
After so much time in lockdown, we want to party in style. “The Gold Standard” (page 112) on celebrity designer and party planner Colin Cowie gives readers a front-row seat to how it’s done. Find out what Cowie has been up to…in our own backyard (and one of my favorite Boca spots!) Next, we’ll take you to Montana’s exclusive luxury destination, The Resort At Paws Up for the holiday vacation of your dreams. Our editor visited recently and absolutely fell in love! “Making Montana Memories” (page 90) sets the winter ultimate wonderland scene whether cozying up to a toasty fire or trying out snow sports you never knew about!
With the extraordinary Romero Britto
Photo by Carlos Aristizabal
And what’s December without a holiday gift guide? In “Rejoicing Life” (page 118), we’ve broken ours into some beautiful categories. Head on over and take a peek – you’ll find something special for everyone on your list!
Speaking of lists, I’m excited to introduce a brand new department, “The L List” (page 32) – a very special compilation of things that make my life better, make me laugh, or are simply things that I love! You’ll find it in every other issue moving forward. Feel free to email me your thoughts or suggestions please. I can’t think of a better place than this issue to start the fun.
Last, but definitely not least, I cannot begin to express my gratitude to each of you. It's because of all of you — my incredible team, loyal readers, supportive family and friends, fantastic marketing partners and fabulous communities that I am blessed to do what I love every month, week, day, hour and minute (even the sleepless ones!). From the bottom of my heart, I am grateful for good health, success, happiness, family and friends, life, love and good luck. Best wishes for a happy, healthy and blessed holiday and New Year!
Let's raise a glass...to life!
Linda L. Behmoiras
linda@bocaratonobserver.com