We admit it – we like Thanksgiving. This truly American holiday brings families together, celebrates the blessings we all enjoy, brings out that “giving” spirit in many of us and jumpstarts the holiday season.

We also like to think those of us who live in Fountain Hills have even more reasons to count our blessings at this time of year – great weather, beautiful desert surroundings, gorgeous mountain ranges and a wonderful hometown community.

There are, of course, always improvements needed in any community, and the very presence of such organizations as the Ministerial Association’s Good Samaritan Fund, St. Vincent de Paul, Salvation Army, Home Delivered Meals and Extended Hands Food Bank means there are people right here in our town who still need some type of assistance.

It’s been a difficult couple of years for many folks as we continue to crawl out of the Great Recession. Still, we have no doubt that everyone has something to be thankful for this holiday season, and we encourage everyone to dwell on those positive thoughts.

We have some fine traditions in Fountain Hills for Thanksgiving that help ignite good holiday feelings – the Turkey Trot and then the Thanksgiving Day Parade. Let’s get out there and celebrate our heritage, our blessings and our community, and don’t forget to pass the turkey and stuffing.

Happy Thanksgiving!