Like elves in a North Pole workshop, the Gazette team has busily put its talents together and packaged a really wonderful December issue.

Donner loved Pam Troy’s feature on theme parties. Blitzen booked a vacation to the Alps after reading Donna’s Peck’s “Travel” story. Prancer and Dancer can’t wait to see the new/old Jade Room at Gumps after reading about on page 11, and Vixen loved all the name-dropping in Merla Zellerbach’s annual holiday rhyme. After reading the antique ornament feature, Cupid’s passion was sparked. Comet hasn’t finished reading this issue but will as soon as he’s back from flying practice, and Rudolph is busy trying to recognize all the real-estate big shots in their Holiday Greeting pages.

It’s been a trying year, but there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, lit by encouraging signs of renewed vitality of the Dow (as of this printing deadline, anyway). Local retailers are more upbeat, and our advertisers are focusing on readers and consumers who have money to spend, and the taste of knowing where to spend it. Value is in, and we’re all looking for accessible luxury.

I wish you all of life’s pleasures and to enjoy them in the best of health.

Salud, L’chaim, Prosit, Na zdravi, À votre santé, Oogy wawa, Sanitas bona, Bottoms up, and mostly Cheers!

See you next year.

Lois