By Lori Leath Smith, Publisher
A sunset over the Bay; schools where parents are involved and teachers are impeccable; community parks with so much to offer; a business community based on relationships and trust—these are just a few of the positive highlights in our community!
Each year, Bay Life asks, “What are you thankful for?” and offers readers the opportunity to express appreciation for the people and things in their lives. Indeed, there is so much to be grateful for!
As you gather to celebrate this Thanksgiving, resolve to make it more than a reason to take a day off, eat some great food or watch a football game. Make it a time of counting your blessings. After all, the Pilgrims founded our nation on thankfulness and, instead of focusing on their losses, they chose to offer thanks for all the blessings that made it possible for them to come together in that place — a new beginning, a bountiful harvest, new friendships, a bright future, family and a faithful God.
“As your publisher, I’m thankful for so many reasons. But one thing is certain—I’m grateful for this community of friends and colleagues who, with compassion and caring, support and patience, have come alongside me and my family as we continue to navigate through the tragic passing of my nephew—our beloved Wesley Turpin. It is truly comforting and blessed, and we cherish all of you.”
— Lori Leath Smith, Life Media Group
“I am thankful for my incredible family, whose unwavering support means everything to me, and for the opportunity to work in a school district that is dedicated to inspiring and uplifting the next generation. I’m also deeply grateful to live in a community like Okaloosa County, where everyone works together to ensure the well-being of those who live, work, and visit here.”
—Catherine Card, Public Information Officer, Okaloosa County School District
“I’m thankful to be able to work in the arts. I believe a vibrant arts scene is key to a destination’s Quality of Place and it’s rewarding to me to play a small part.”
—Zandra Wolfgram, Director of Marketing & Communications, Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation & Sinfonia Gulf Coast
“J&B Medical is thankful for the continued support from the community of our family owned and operated business for the past 20+ years and for the opportunity to continue to help people with their healthcare needs in and around Okaloosa County.”
— Kelly Stalnaker, J&B Medical
“I’m so thankful that members of my family in St. Petersburg, Fla., escaped with minor damages during the vicious hurricanes that hit that portion of the state this fall. Everyone is safe and sound and rebuilding again.”
— Barbara Palmgren, Heritage Museum of NWFL
“Dear Donors, Your generosity has made an incredible impact on Crisis Aid for Littles and Moms (CALM). Thanks to your support, we’re able to continue our mission of providing essential aid and comfort to those in need. We couldn’t do this important work without you. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with us and making a difference.”
— CALM Organization
“I am thankful for the incredible blessings in my life: my family, who bring a special joy to my days; my role as a pastor, where I have the privilege of uniquely sharing my faith; and my community involvement, where I can influence others positively. Above all, I am thankful for God’s unwavering grace, which guides me through my every endeavor.”
— Pastor “Doc” Doug Stauffer
“I am extremely thankful for the roof over my head, and for living in a community that is so generous when they witness others in desperate need! Grateful to our customers and all in the area who came to donate Hurricane Relief for both NC and S FL when we collected goods with our “Come to the Table” team of volunteers working with Veterans Serving Veterans and Bigun’s Hope Disaster Response. 33K pounds of goods were received, sorted and transported.”
— Angela “JoJo” Stevenson
