Being Thankful

Many Americans take the opportunity in November to express the things they are thankful for. We asked some of our City Council Members to share their thoughts as we start making our Thanksgiving preparations.

Kim Santiago

As a woman living in Provo, Utah I have a lot to be grateful for. I am grateful that I had the freedom to chart my own course in education; to choose my vocation; my religion; to be a stay-at-home Mom; to vote; to choose where to live; how to feed, clothe, and teach my children; and to marry whom I choose. I am so grateful for a companion in life who shares similar goals and aspirations, who supports my roles as a wife, mother, teacher, nurse, and an elected official.

As a woman in our society I feel valued, empowered and protected. These blessings are available largely because of the sacrifice of brave men and women, past and present, who endure(d) exquisite pain and suffering beyond understanding to create and preserve these rights. My thoughts and gratitude go out to them often, and especially this Thanksgiving season.

Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving!


Dave Sewell

I have recently had two things to be thankful for related to my mother. The first picture was taken a few months ago when I was able to accompany my mother on her first trip to the temple (in Oakland). Pictured are, from left to right, my wife, my oldest nephew and his wife, my oldest son and his wife, my mother, me, and my mother's visiting teacher and home teacher.

The second photo was taken a few weeks ago when I was able to visit my mother again for her 80th birthday celebration. The portrait is of my mother, myself, and my two sisters - in the home where we grew up. My mother still lives there.