I’ll be honest, Thanksgiving has never been my favorite holiday (no lights, no real theme, no music?) and this year is especially difficult for my family. This Thursday, as everyone gathers with family and friends, we have an empty seat at our table and in our hearts as this would have been my grandfather’s 100th birthday. Yes, he had a long life, but as he was in great shape physically and mentally, we really thought we had more years to come.
But, the one thing I do love about Thanksgiving is that it forces us to slow down and consciously think about what we are grateful for and I sure am grateful that my life was changed by having a man as loving and caring as my grandfather in our lives. I am grateful for an incredibly supportive family and the kind of friends I wish everyone could have. And, I am grateful to you, whether you’re a constituent or regular subscriber. I hope each of you finds something or someone to be grateful for this week.
Small business Saturday is this coming Saturday and I’ve included some local business lists for you to peruse. This season, think small before you think big box store or behemoth online retailer.
I’ve also included some upcoming ways to assist people in our district. I’ll also be hosting the Winter Warm Up again, so when you are shopping, please consider picking up NEW (only) sleeping bags, gloves/mittens, hand/foot warmers, scarves and blankets for the homeless. Stay tuned for collection points. Please, no used items. I know it’s tempting, but there are many other organizations that will take gently used (bug free) items.
Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving and time with your family and friends. It’s the most precious gift we receive!
Please consider donating to the Town of Canton Giving Program's Toy Drive at Shops at Farmington Valley and Ocean State Job Lot on Saturday, Dec.7th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Take a look at the flyer below for more details.
The Town has set up a web page to inform those who wish to donate to one or more programs and services that assist Avon residents.
Please click HERE and consider donating to the Avon Food Pantry, the Avon Pet Pantry, the Avon Fuel Bank, the Avon Special Needs Funds, the Avon Senior Center, or the Holiday Donation Program.
Sincerely,
Eleni Kavros DeGraw
State Representative