A Thanksgiving centerpiece by floral designer Gillian Sutton of Flowers by Gillian at 3801 Arkansas Ave. Flower bouquets are available for $50 each until 7 p.m. today or sold out. Photo by Jenn Bartram/ladailypost.com
By KIRSTEN LASKEY
LOS ALAMOS DAILY POST
kirsten@ladailypost.com
To say this has been a difficult year is an understatement. Even now with Thanksgiving approaching, it may be hard to feel thankful and see blessings during such a turbulent time.
But despite the pandemic, there are still things to celebrate and embrace. Officials across all areas of Los Alamos provided the Los Alamos Daily Post words of encouragement and joy to pass on to the community this Thanksgiving.
Here is what they said:
Los Alamos National Laboratory Director Thom Mason:
In this unprecedented, challenging time, the Laboratory and community must reflect on what we have to be thankful for and how we can support the less fortunate in our communities. Our Employee Holiday Gift Drive has just begun, and we are donating gift kits for children, elders, and the homeless containing items sourced from local businesses whenever possible. I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.
Newly elected County Councilor Sean Williams:
It’s a serious question, how to celebrate a holiday about togetherness in the year of social distancing. Maybe this year can remind us of the greater truth, that we’re all in it together. So whatever Thanksgiving looks like for you, hopefully the spirit of togetherness will overshadow the physical distance we all have to endure.
Newly elected County Council Councilor Denise Derkacs:
I wish Los Alamos County residents a happy and healthy Thanksgiving during these difficult times of COVID-19.
County Council Chair Sara Scott:
As we approach the holidays I’d like to recognize those in our community that make a difference every day: our educators, our health care workers, our front line safety personnel, our local businesses, and the folks working hard to make sure those in need find food, shelter, utilities, and clothing. I am personally deeply thankful for these individuals, my family, and family of friends and feel so fortunate, so grateful. I wish you all a safe and peaceful Thanksgiving.
County Council Vice Chair Randall Ryti:
During this unique Thanksgiving, I send my appreciation to everyone who kept our community operating during this difficult year. Everyone’s efforts in 2020 makes me hopeful we can safely spend time with family and friends in the coming year.
County Councilor David Izraelevitz:
At a time of uncertainty and challenges, it is even more important for us to take a moment and reflect on the value of family and friendship. This, I think, is the message of the Thanksgiving holiday. It will be difficult for Terry and me to be away from my children and grandson this weekend, but I hope that soon enough we will be able to safely see each other. In the meantime, Thank God for Zoom and Facetime!
Los Alamos Chamber of Commerce Director Ryn Herrmann:
This Thanksgiving, when I think about what I am thankful for, my family and friends, and my (daughter’s dog) top the list as always. But this year more than ever I am also very thankful for this caring community in which we live. I have personally witnessed so many locals helping our small businesses that are struggling to stay open. These business owners are our friends and neighbors and it says so much about our community that we all are helping them where we can. So please continue to think of our local small businesses for your dining and holiday gift-giving! Happy Thanksgiving!
Los Alamos Public Schools Superintendent Kurt Steinhaus:
This Thanksgiving, more than any other, I find myself appreciating hundreds of things that may be taken for granted.
The kindness of people I have never met before
A roof over my head and a warm home
Plenty of drinkable water
The caring in our schools comes from the people of LAPS and those we serve. Our students, staff and community members encourage us and make us proud. I am so grateful to be part of the LAPS family. From the bottom of my heart, I wish you and your family a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.
University of New Mexico-Los Alamos Chancellor Cynthia Rooney:
Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. A day of gratitude that includes traditions around family, friends, food, and football! In 2020, many of us will miss the traditional family gatherings with the conversations, laughter, games, etc., but I hope that we can all continue the tradition of gratitude. I am thankful for many blessings, including the wonderful community we live in; the faculty, staff, and students at UNM-Los Alamos; the health care workers, scientists, and others who have cared for COVID-19 patients, searched for effective treatments, and developed potential vaccines. Even though our traditions will be different this year, I wish you and your loved ones a safe and enjoyable day, and I encourage all of us to find time for reflection and gratitude.
Los Alamos County Police Chief Dino Sgambellone:
On behalf of the Los Alamos Police Department, I wish you a relaxing and safe Thanksgiving. If you are traveling, please do not drink and drive and remember to follow COVID recommended practices for your safety and for the safety of those around you. I’d like to send a special “Thank You” for those working on Thanksgiving to keep our community safe. Happy Thanksgiving!
