Turkey day is almost upon us. While the food is always a highlight of Thanksgiving, what is more important is reflecting on what we are most thankful for in our lives and the end of the word, “giving.” 

On that note, the generosity on display in our community always blows us away, as well as the work of so many wonderful organizations who give back to our neighbors in need and work tirelessly to ensure they have a memorable holiday.

You can read about some of these wonderful folks in today’s Thanksgiving Salute.
Staying on the topic of the upcoming holiday season, many of us will be attending family gatherings.

It’s likely we will be in close proximity to loved ones and our mask discipline might slip a bit around those we trust.

With that in mind, if in the coming days and week you feel under the weather, even if symptoms do not align with the typical ones associated with COVID-19, it is better to be safe than sorry, so stay home!

We understand that missing work and having to have the kids stay home can be an inconvenience, and in regard to the former, a source of financial stress.

However, you have to also keep the health and safety of your peers into account.

In Friday’s paper, the COVID-19 update box on the front page, it stated that 40,768 people have completed the vaccine series in Sullivan County. It’s important to remember that our county’s population is around the 75,000 mark. So essentially, a little more than half – 54% – of our population is vaccinated in the county. Leaving a large percentage that is less protected against this virus.

So vaccinated or not, going to work or school sick is putting people at risk.

Please keep that in mind as we head into the colder months of winter.

Back on the topic of Thanksgiving, on behalf of our entire staff, we want to wish everyone a happy and safe Thanksgiving Holiday. Wherever you are traveling, may it be safe and enjoyable.

Gift Guide… Shop Local
If you look inside today’s newspaper, you’ll find our Holiday Gift Guide that we put together each year. Please take the time to read it and you’ll learn of some exciting events and gift ideas that can be purchased locally.

As is covered in the guide, please consider keeping your dollars local this holiday season. There so many businesses on our main streets and in our county that offer items that make amazing gifts and they can use our support.

Shop local, support local… we can all make a difference.