Longtime friends who have journeyed through life with me hold a special place in my heart. They carry my history—our shared laughter, stories and challenges. They’ve supported me through life’s ups and downs, just as I’ve stood by them.

My dear friend Phil Fisher was one of those cherished companions. I met Phil and his wife, Natalie Guess-Fisher, when I moved to Naples in 1981 with my husband and our 2-year-old son, Ziven. We lived in the same Old Naples neighborhoodand shared many friends.

When it came time to celebrate a recent birthday, I wanted to be surrounded by my oldest

and dearest friends. Phil and Natalie were at the top of my list. That morning, Natalie called,

and I sensed something was wrong. With deep sadness, she told me Phil had passed away

unexpectedly in his sleep.

Phil was beloved in Southwest Florida for his vibrant, joyful artwork, which has graced

many of our magazine covers over the years. His creativity and generous spirit live on

through the paintings that still fill the Guess-Fisher Gallery on Central Avenue in Naples. It

feels only fitting to honor him this month by featuring his art on our cover. I encourage you

to visit the gallery and experience the beauty of his legacy firsthand.

Another dear friend, Nancy Yuskaitis, has been part of my life for nearly as long as Phil.

We became soul sisters back in the early 1990s, and she even helped me sell ads for this

magazine. Fate intervened when she sold one to Dr. Bob Yuskaitis for his holistic healing

center—they’ve been happily married for almost 30 years.

Nancy and I share a profound bond through loss. We’ve both experienced the heartbreak of

losing a child, and in Nancy’s case, two children. Determined to stay connected, she studied under James Van Praagh and others to develop her intuitive gifts. In her new book, Hi

Mom, It’s Me, she courageously shares her healing journey, offering comfort and hope to

those longing to connect with loved ones on the other side. See more on page 12.

I’ve also been deeply blessed to call Sai Maa my friend and spiritual teacher for many years.

Revered worldwide as an enlightened master, Sai Maa’s presence radiates love and transformation. Each year, I look forward to her four-day Southwest Florida event, a sacred experience that uplift s and expands the heart. See the news brief on page 14 and ad on page 2 for more details.

As we enter the holiday season, may we be reminded of the precious gift of connection to

family, friends, mentors and those who remain forever in our hearts. Reach out, express

your love and treasure every moment of your circle of friendship.

With love and gratitude,

Sharon Bruckman, Publisher