The Publisher | Jimmy Dean

Dear Readers:

We like to think every issue of HARBOR STYLE contains the most relevant, intriguing and brilliantly told stories of our community, but this one really hits home. This issue is themed "The Health of Charlotte County," and our editors have done a great job of slicing right through to the bone of the subject (pardon the pun).

Health and the science of good health, wellness, is really a very simple concept. It's opening one's self to the systemic nature of the body - and mind - and taking responsibility for your own well-being, not doing everything you can to kill yourself and then expecting big medicine and the government to fix you.

Locally, we all probably know someone who has chosen to live here "for their health." Some people find that the natural light, climate and sun of southwest Florida help them lead healthier and happier lives. Many choose to live here simply because we have a wide array of experts and a great healthcare system in place, especially compared to other communities of our size. We have easy access to the latest in emergent care, cardiac surgery, neurology, orthopedics and thoracic care as well as state-of-the art diagnostic tools. And now with the Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Health Clinic for the uninsured and under-insured, we have a safety net for the most disadvantaged among us. It's a fact that anyone can receive the highest level of care right here in Charlotte County.

That doesn't mean that there aren't problems and storm clouds on the horizon, however. For this issue, we hosted a roundtable discussion with the three area hospital CEO's, and they shared their concerns with us. We also met with the folks at Charlotte Behavioral Health Care to learn how the need for their services keeps going up as our economy keeps going down.

We're also delighted to shine the spotlight on another important community resource that addresses all of our needs: mind, body and spirit. The Charlotte County Family YMCA is the newest chapter in our "Faces of Charlotte County" series. With a mission that has the entire community in mind, this organization is making a positive difference for thousands of us and our neighbors in a difficult economic time. They need our support now more than ever.

Now all that being said, it's May! Get outside and enjoy the weather. Here's to your health, Charlotte County!

Sincerely,

Jimmy Dean, Publisher