A View from the Top

Thanksgiving was one of my favorite holidays when I was growing up in Ohio. My mother came from a large family, so I enjoyed when everyone got together. There were cousins to play with and stories to be told. 

Before we dug into the delicious food that was spread on the table, each person would say what they were grateful for during that year. It always made me think that I was so lucky to have grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and my parents in my life. I was also grateful for my brothers and sister, especially knowing that some of my friends did not have siblings. It reminds me that we often take for granted the little things in life that really mean so much.

So when you sit down for Thanksgiving dinner this year, think about why you are so blessed. There are some people who don’t have any friends or family to celebrate this holiday. Maybe there is one more spot at your table for you to invite a person who is alone. I know that they will appreciate the offer and it will make everyone involved feel better. 

On another note, the city of
Coconut Creek recently received two honors. City Manager Mary Blasi and Parks and Recreation Supervisor Janet Hull were invited to the White House by first lady Michelle Obama to celebrate the city’s achievement in the Let’s Move Cities, Towns and Counties initiative. We were one of 52 cities honored out of 500 participating, and we were ranked seventh in the United States.

The program is also supported by the National League of Cities. Congrats to our Parks and Recreation team and all our residents who participated.

Coconut Creek was also a finalist as the Most Outstanding Green Government at the Gala Verde Awards held by the U.S. Green Building Council. The organization’s mission is to transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built and operated, enabling a sustainable and socially responsible, healthy and prosperous environment for people to live, work, learn and play. We are so proud of both of these accomplishments. 

There is a lot to do in November. Take a look at the Around Town and Holiday Happenings sections to decide what you can do this holiday season.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

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