Editor Letter: Conquering a Virus

Barry Glenn (ROBERTO GONZALEZ)

There are many stories arising out of the pandemic we are enduring. Some have to do with finding ways not to go stir-crazy. For instance, last month we gave you suggestions on what to do while hunkered down at home, from streaming videos to trying new recipes to settling in with a good book.

In this issue, we turn to stories of survival. And I use that word in its truest sense, not as a synonym for coping but rather prevailing in a life-and-death struggle. Writer Michael McLeod turns the spotlight on some individuals who never could have imagined a monster like the coronavirus. The accounts are searing, yet ultimately inspirational because a combination of things helped them pull through—treatments, caring hospital teams, family members and, of course, their iron wills.

Elsewhere, this is our semi-annual wedding issue, and the lineup includes tips for a memorable event from celebrity wedding expert David Tutera, as well as our recommendations for local venues that will fit your specific theme. (Coincidentally the “Story of’’ feature this month is about a matchmaker.) In Food & Drink, dining critic Joseph Hayes selects five new inductees for our Dining Hall of Fame, ranging from the chef-owner of  Primo restaurant to a baker who has racked up countless, well-deserved awards. These HOF honors are an appetizer for our annual Dining Awards issue, which we hope to bring you soon.

Other features include suggestions for getaways where you can isolate by choice—three remote locales, from mountains to seashore. We offer fun ways to keep kids learning throughout the summer, including learning to play chess and starting a book club. In Extra Pulp, Laura Anders Lee talks about how the pandemic has created a more meaningful family life. And in our RSVP@Home section we feature photos from readers illustrating how they’re spending time at home.

Keeping with that theme, go to orlandomagazine.com for an online exclusive titled “Home Front,’’ in which photo editor Roberto Gonzalez has captured a series of images reflecting how we are living—and helping—in this age of coronavirus. Among our featured neighbors are a sidewalk chalk artist cheering up her part of town, and an appreciative attorney delivering free food to medical workers.