Without a doubt, 2023 has been a tough year for many of us. It’s been hard to watch the industry struggle, in addition to experiencing the everyday ups and downs of life.
But in the midst of hard times, we can be thankful for the things that pull us through. As for me, I am deeply grateful for the people I have the privilege to work with every day. I wish I had the space to tell you about the amazing qualities of each person. It would take several pages.
This year, Kathryn Greene joined our writing staff as a senior editor, and I couldn’t be happier to have her. She is so smart and willing to jump in wherever needed. Then there’s Waynette Goodson, our managing editor, who is a powerhouse of positive energy and a fount of ideas.
On the advertising side, we have Kerri Bellias, Robin Mykytyn and Gary Socha. Many of you probably know Kerri well from markets or have been in contact with her for ads. Robin works behind the scenes keeping everything running smoothly on the production side. Gary primarily works on the Sleep Savvy side. You can imagine how grateful I am to this crew.
Anything you see on our websites or on our social media is thanks to Digital Communications Manager Kathy Rush. She does such a beautiful job of broadening our digital world. Any professional videos you see on the web are the handiwork of Mynda Bullock.
Stephanie Belcher, our creative director, puts her mark on every single page of the print magazine and keeps me on track. Super organized Mary Rulli, our circulation manager, makes sure you receive these issues in your mailbox.
Of course, we are supported by the entire International Sleep Products Association team in Alexandria, Virginia — particularly Ryan Trainer, ISPA president, and Mary Helen Rogers, vice president of marketing and communications, and Catherine Lyons, chief financial officer.
We also have a host of wonderful frequent writers, editors and proofreaders — Jennifer Bringle, Gary James, Julie A. Palm, Cindy Sheaffer, Jimmy Tomlin and Larry Thomas. And who could forget Dave Perry, who has continued to write columns this year, even after retiring from full-time work.
I can promise you that each and every person listed here is a delight. Not only are they top-notch in their fields, they make work so enjoyable on a personal level. We all know that isn’t something you can put a price tag on.
And you, reader, make the effort of putting out a monthly magazine, as well as a host of other communication pieces, well worthwhile. This industry is full of people I’m so glad I’ve gotten to know. Here’s to good things to come in 2024!
