I'd like to express a big "Thank You" to all who called, wrote or stopped in the office to tell us how much they enjoyed the first issue of Elkhart County Living, our new magazine that looks at the lifestyles of the place we call home.
   The holidays are here again, the best time of the year for all but the most determined Scrooges among us, and this edition of Elkhart County Living is filled with information to help you enjoy this special season.
   The Elkhart Symphony Orchestra has a long history of providing music to local residents. Check out our profile of the group, including its past setbacks and triumphs, along with a list of holiday music events in the region. Also featured are tips for hosting the perfect holiday get together, including festive drinks, dishes and decor.
   When doing your holiday shopping this year, you may want to consider buying a "gift of kindness." Soup of Success in Elkhart promotes job training and life skills in women by offering holiday pre-packaged or make-your-own gift baskets. For that person on your list always so hard to buy for, how about giving a gift of livestock from Heifer Project International in their name?
   If you're looking for something to do with those outof-town guests visiting over the holidays, we have information on museums, both locally and within driving distance, including a variety of exhibits and displays. But we're not just about the holidays in this issue. Two local collectors are also featured.
   Middlebury resident Eldon Hostetler has spent the past 25 years collecting Hudson cars and recently donated his collection to the Hostetler Hudson Auto Museum located in the Shipshewana Town Center. And Elkhart resident Allen Stewart has amassed an amazing collection of comic books and superhero memorabilia.
   The Scene this month visited the annual Celebrity Waiters' Luncheon at Lucchese’s Ristorante. Information on the event, "Seen and heard," "What did they eat" and "Who won what" is included, along with photos of "The Faces" of many who attended. Finally, if the hustle and bustle of the holidays has you feeling harried and disorganized, check out our story on Bethany Swope, owner of Simplify Organizing and Decluttering. Bethany is a professional organizer who gives tips on how to stay clutter free at home and work.
   James Kroemer
   publisher