This year has truly flown by, and I could not be more pleased with how Forest Acres has welcomed Our Town Magazine. With our first year behind us, we look ahead to 2027 with great anticipation for making future collaborations and becoming more involved in the community. As you—the residents and
businesses—know, Forest Acres is a special place. The sense of community is strong here, and it is a wonderful thing to see evidence of that pride in people of all ages, ranging from the young to the young at heart.
On this cover, we bring you “Mid-State Floor Coverings.” Kayla Lamons, the owner, proudly leads this family-operated business, bringing you the best customer service and flooring options available in the area.
There are several other articles within that we hope you enjoy. One was written by a dear friend, Virginia Gates. This was the last piece that she gave me before she passed in September of this year. It expresses her appreciation for family traditions and spending time with those you love, and who better understands what a gift that is than someone who graciously fought cancer for six years before her passing. I hope you take her story to heart and, in turn, treasure your family and the traditions that make it uniquely yours. She would have liked that.
“Life After the Military” is a personal editorial by retired Military Police Officer Shaka Webber. He describes how he learned to define himself outside the military role, and to thrive from within using the skills the military gave him, while navigating civilian life and becoming a self-employed business owner. He tells his story in hopes that it gives others initiative and support as they too figure out how to live life after serving in the armed forces.
November is National Caregivers Month, and we could not let it go by without saying a huge “THANK YOU” to every individual who bears this title. This is not an easy task, and it takes a very special person to be able to handle the emotional and physical toll needed to make a positive difference. We sincerely appreciate you all and hope that you find this article relatable and informative.
Lastly, “In the Acres” is from your own Lynnsey Baker. She keeps us all informed of the special events and topics involving Forest Acres. Lynnsey has been a huge cheerleader for Forest Acres as well as Our Town Magazine, and we are thrilled that she is sharing the goings-on in the community with all our readers.
As Our Town Magazine starts our second year in Forest Acres, I want to thank everyone who advertises with us and those who have inquired about advertising in our direct mail publication—because you are the ones who make this magazine happen! We are currently printing 17,000 and mailing over 16,000 to homes and businesses in the immediate area, and each month, we hear from readers and advertisers alike about how much they enjoy reading it from front to back, which makes this publisher’s heart
happy. So, be sure to shop small this holiday season, and let’s get ready for 2027! From now until then, Our Town Magazine wishes you a Happy Thanksgiving and a Merry Christmas!
As always, I hope to see you out and about!
