We celebrate local healthcare leaders, educators, and community impact.Â
Written by Liz Long, Editor
A few months ago, I turned 41.
It wasn’t one of those milestone birthdays that comes with a lot of fanfare, but it did come with something else: perspective. Somewhere along the way, getting older quietly crept up on me. It’s the little things that catch your attention first—needing a little longer to recover after a busy weekend, noticing changes in your vision, or realizing that conversations with friends have shifted from where we’re going out to dinner to who has the best chiropractor (or realizing how close our perimenopause piece, page 46, hits home).
As much as I joke about it, this season of life has reminded me how valuable it is to have trusted healthcare professionals in your corner. The right doctor doesn’t just help when something is wrong; they become a partner in helping you stay healthy and enjoy life to its fullest. That’s one reason we’re especially excited about this issue’s Top Docs feature. These physicians were nominated by their peers and represent some of the most respected medical professionals in our region. Whether you’re looking for a new provider or simply appreciate the expertise available in our community, it’s a reminder that exceptional care can be found right here at home.
This issue also shines a light on education. As the spouse of a teacher, I’ve gained a front-row seat to the dedication and heart that educators bring to their work. Summer offers a well-earned chance to recharge, but before we know it, lesson plans, classroom preparations, and the excitement of a new school year will be underway again. It’s a profession that often extends far beyond the school day, and one that shapes our community in countless ways. We also explore the legacy of teaching through families where parents and grandparents have passed the torch to the next generation, continuing a tradition of education that runs deep in our region and strengthens our classrooms (and community) in lasting ways.
As always, we’re proud to tell the stories of the people and places that make this region special. Cheers, and remember to love local!
Warmly,
Liz Long, Editor
llong@vistamediainc.com
The story above first appeared in our July/August 2026 issue.
