This issue marks the 7th anniversary of GRAND – the digital magazine for GRANDparents and their families. As we launch our 8th year, we recognize that we are riding the wave of an unprecedented trend. Baby boomers are now a generation of grandparents – and there are millions of us. What’s more, because of our increased longevity we are in the lives of our grandchildren longer and stronger than any previous generation. This is not our parents’ “old age.” And it couldn’t be more exciting!
I’m Lori Bitter, and I’ve just become the publisher of GRAND Magazine. I’ve had the privilege of working with mature consumers for more than 15 years, both through research and in our advertising agency, Continuum Crew. My company recently acquired Eons.com, the only social network designed exclusively for consumers 40-plus – it’s one more way to understand what you are interested in and passionate about.
And that passion has brought me to GRAND! I’m a brand-new grandmother to Gabriel McClain, and the mission of GRAND Media is core to me. The opportunity to lead GRAND Media into its next chapter is so exciting. We’re launching a new website and online community, growing GRAND Magazine Radio and (drum roll, please) rolling out GRAND Magazine TV in September. I can’t wait to see actor Jeff Bridges of Crazy Heart fame as our first TV guest.
We proudly present our cover GRANDS for this issue: Drs. Michael and Rickie Beckwith of the Agape International Spiritual Center, a community dedicated to dignity, love and peace. Learn more about their amazing community and their seven grandchildren on page 22.
Finally, be sure to meet the winner of the 2011 GRANDparent of the Year Award and the 10 finalists on page 12. Our panel of judges had a tough job in choosing just one from this impressive group of grands. They remind us of what is so important about this stage of our lives!
GRAND has already brought me many gifts – including the friendship of founders Christine Crosby and Jonathan Micocci. To be able to help them nurture this “child” is an honor and privilege. So is getting to know all of you and hearing more about what you want GRAND to be and how it can inspire you. I look forward to our conversations!
Wishing your family a wonderful fall season,
Lori Bitter
lbitter@grandmedia.com
