Volume 12 Issue 3
While Benjamin Franklin is widely known for his expertise in a number of areas, his tenure as a magazine publisher was short-lived. In February 1741, he published The General Magazine, one of the first magazines of its kind to be published in the American colonies. To the surprise of many, his magazine folded after just six issues.
According to Cheryl Woodward, publishing business consultant and author, 9 out of 10 new magazines will fail. The magazine industry can be a tough business, and that is why as Saline County Lifestyles celebrates our 11-Year Anniversary, we are humbled to have had the opportunity to serve our community for more than a decade.
Our longevity is a testament to our amazing support system of local businesses and the dedicated community of followers who continue to pick up and enjoy each new edition. We have also been blessed with an outstanding staff whose loyalty is unmatched. One such example is Carolyn and Ed Buckner. The Buckner’s have worked by my side since day one, using their editorial talent to contribute to all 67 issues of Saline County Lifestyles. I’m grateful for their service, and more importantly, their friendship! I’m also heartbroken over the recent loss of their 29-year-old daughter Ashton Alayne Eakin.
In January of 2018 Ashton was unexpectedly diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), which is a cancer that affects the “B lymphocytes” that grow in bone marrow and help the body fight infections. B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia is more commonly found in children and is extremely rare in adults of Ashton’s age. She began treatment immediately and bravely fought for her life for more than fifteen months. Unfortunately, on the evening of May 6, 2019, Ashton’s battle with cancer ended and she is now in the presence of the Lord.
Speaking on behalf of our Saline County Lifestyles community, we want to honor Ashton’s memory and offer our deepest sympathy to the Buckner family.
At Ashton’s funeral, her father-in-law, Brother Allan Eakin delivered an inspiring message in which he reminded the congregation that as devastating as Ashton’s passing is to everyone who loved her, we have an opportunity “to make this count.” Ashton was known for her sense of adventure and for living her life to the fullest. I plan to keep that idea in mind moving forward as I strive to make every moment count! Your town. Your life. Your magazine.
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