Publishers Note
The holidays are here again!
The perfect time to slow down a bit and connect with our loved ones, friends, and communities. It’s also the time of year when volunteering is a powerful way to boost well-being. Even the simplest act of volunteerism can be an essential reminder of what it means to live well.
New Beginnings—WJCT
WJCT’s mission is: “To provide programming and services that celebrate human diversity, encourage joyful learning, and promote civic participation, all to empower citizens to improve the quality of their lives.”
That mission has been met and exceeded for more than six decades, with ever-increasing participation and support of the North Florida community. Recently, dramatic federal and state funding cuts to WJCT and affiliates have necessitated and resulted in greater community support than ever before for the vital programming it provides (read more on page 24).
Grumpy Cat
For those of us who read and love the Wall Street Journal, one cannot help but notice the small hand-drawn pen-and-ink pointillist-style hedcuts that adorn the front pages. Most often they are portraits of famous people, occasionally they are animals, most notably Grumpy Cat. Ever wonder who creates those? Well, many were done by a local Jacksonville artist who also recently opened an art gallery called UniCat (partially named for her love of cats). We treat you to a conversation with the Wall Street Journal’s artist Noli Novak (see page 32).
Shop Local
Gift Guide
Arbus Magazine brings you ways to make shopping for gifts this holiday season feel super festive. Our beloved independent local businesses need our support. In thinking of things to make your dearest people smile, let’s try to shop our values and make our community smile as well. Each year, Arbus presents our “Shop Local Gift Guide” so that you can see what locally owned businesses are offering and be inspired to enjoy gift shopping. Enjoy browsing through the pages and soak in the tradition and sparkle of the season (page 45).
Be safe, be well. Happy holidays from Arbus!
Cinda Sherman, Publisher
