Since this is our November Thanksgiving issue, in the year 2018 are there one or two things that you’re thankful for that made this year special?
2018 brought us a baby girl, Summer Winslow Denison. She’s grateful that her big brother thinks she’s a dog (he pats her head like one) and also grateful her big sister Nora hasn’t blinded her (she’s constantly trying to poke her eyeballs out).
Bob Denison, President, Denison Yacht Sales
Last December my wife had a chest x-ray during her normal checkup. The doctors noticed several small crushed glass circles in her right lung. She has never smoked and was a germaphobe when it came to chemicals. We visited MD Anderson in late January to have it checked out, and after a series of test, she was diagnosed as having BAC ( bronchioalveolar carcinoma) cancer. We returned two weeks later for surgery and had it removed. We learned that almost 66 percent of MDA cancer patients from nonsmokers is BAC. Caused by elements in the environment, we are blessed to have caught it early and she is now cancer free.
Jack Ireland, Kathy’s dad, passed May 20, 2018. Kathy’s dad was an amazing individual and God-fearing man. Prior to his passing, he wanted to live long enough to see the Auberge Beach Residence and Spa buildings completed. This new project was built on the site of the original Ireland’s Inn Beach Resort. In January, he was able to attend the topping off party for the South Tower and spoke to over 900 workers who made this dream a reality.
I am thankful each day for these blessings and hope that you will find the time to reflect and be thankful for God’s abundant blessings.
Andy Mitchell, President/CEO, The Fairwinds Group
First Care, the ministry I oversee, received it’s too largest gifts ever. The donors who gave these gifts have allowed us to meet the needs of women in crisis pregnancies in bigger and better ways than ever before and I am extremely grateful for their stewardship and friendship.
Beau Heyman, Executive Director, First Care Women’s Clinic
What I am very thankful for is The Good, Good Father bringing my son and his wife from Washington State to serve the Lord at Cornerstone Bible Fellowship! Now I am joined by two sons in serving the Most High God.
Bernard King, Pastor, Cornerstone Bible Fellowship
Focusing on just one or two areas of thanksgiving is a difficult task because when I think of God’s love and blessings they are overwhelming. That being said, I am particularly grateful for the health of my family: wife, children and grandchildren. I am forever grateful for a lawyer, John Morris, who in 1981 was patient with my questions and spent time clearly sharing the Gospel with me and leading me to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
William “Bill” C. Davell, Director, Tripp Scott Attorneys at Law
I am thankful for my family and for our health first, and also thankful to be living in the Greatest country in the world, one that gives us the ability and freedom to grow and prosper and choose for ourselves. Also thankful to be able go to work every day to a place and a career that I Love to work at, and for the opportunity to run a successful business that also helps sixty-five other families to also have a job and help support their families too. Thankful to be able to produce beautiful, award-winning projects, and provide a place where others too can come to work every day and have a safe environment with friends and coworkers that is positive and promotes growth. I am also so very Grateful to be able to give back and help others, and truly make a difference in the lives of others less fortunate. I firmly believe that “the more we give, the more we get.”
Bill Feinberg, President, Allied Kitchen & Bath
At Palm Beach Atlantic University, I am extremely thankful for the engaged learning environment and innovative spirit of our Christian faculty. They are dream-makers as students pursue opportunities to lead and serve. All things are possible if God is involved.
William Fleming, President, Palm Beach Atlantic University
I am thankful for my loving wife and wonderful daughter as well as an everlasting Father who calls me deeply loved, fully pleasing, totally forgiven, accepted and complete in Christ.
Bill Hobbs, Director, Urban Youth Impact
This has been another year of God stretching myself, my family and the Heart2Heart Outreach of South Florida ministry. I am thankful for His faithfulness to meet our every need (and many times only that and nothing more). And I am thankful for my dedicated team, our all-in board of directors and our amazing partners. Together, we are bringing hope to the hopeless. Beyond thankful.
Blake Silverstrom, Executive Director, Heart2Heart Outreach
Win or lose (and we will win because we have the best supporters!) I am thankful for the opportunity to live in a community where I am encouraged and supported to put myself forward to run for higher office in the State House of Representatives. I am most thankful for the tremendous family that I am blessed to be part of. We thoroughly enjoy our time together, traveling, working or just being together. I try to make the most out of these times because it goes by quickly. I hope you are as blessed on this Thanksgiving!
Chip LaMarca, Broward County Commissioner and Candidate for State Representative
This year we had two of our sons off at college so the times that we had all six of us at home together were very special – there is nothing like the entire family being under one roof, laughing and spending quality time together – for this I am thankful. Also, The board and staff had a surprise 20 years of First Priority Celebration for me and my wife, and it was a huge blessing and encouragement.
Chris Lane, President, First Priority of South Florida
The two things that I am thankful for # 1 my family and # 2 the opportunity to minister to so many different cultures of people. Thanks.
Daryl Nelson, Pastor, Calvary Chapel of the Palm Beaches
The Lord did exceedingly abundantly more than I dreamed as I initiated and helped organize my high school class reunion in Ohio (we hadn’t had one in more than 3O years). I not only wanted to learn what people did with their lives but, more importantly, I wanted to make sure that each of those who I grew up with and care about knew the way to heaven. The Lord opened the opportunity to witness to the 70+ of them who attended, and I also had lengthy conversations with many to encourage them on their journeys with God.
Deborah Cusick, FAU Campus Volunteer, Intervarsity Christian Fellowship
This time of year, I fondly recall two things that I am thankful for: 1. Being reminded of the power of a positive legacy that one can have as I buried my father-in-law Gerald Crocker and 2. The value of ‘stick-to-it-ness’ in one’s personal and professional life as I look back at my marriage and the marriage relationships of three additional couples.
Dennis DeMarois, Director, The Gathering Palm Beach
I am thankful for so many things this year. Most of all, our daughter married the man I have prayed for since before she was born! While I am proud of them both for graduating law school as well, I am the most thankful for Greg and Jenna’s love for Jesus and commitment to Him as the top priority of their new marriage. Very eventful year so far and… I also have a new grand dog, Sadie!
Dolores King-St. George, Station Manager, 89.3 WRMB Moody Radio
This year has been special for Banyan Air Service and our Teammates because it has been a record year once again after 39 years in business. Among the many other blessings, we just broke ground on a huge hangar expansion after two years of delays to be complete next year.
Don Campion, President, Banyan Air Service
This year my wife Suzanne and I celebrated 25 years of marriage. It has been a year of awe and gratitude as we’ve reflected on all that God has done in our lives together.
Doug Sauder, Pastor, Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale
We have had some serious health issues with extended family members this year, and I am so thankful that we all know God! A relationship with God during these challenging times makes everything different. He brings peace and serenity to our challenges.
Fred Scarbrough, DVM, Founder, Scarbrough Animal Hosptial and HOPE South Florida
Two Things I am thankful for in 2018:
“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children (grandchildren/future generations) are walking in the truth” (3 John 1:2).
- I came to faith through Bible Study Fellowship over 25 years ago. After that, I had the privilege of leading my parents to the Lord, as well as sharing the Good News with our three children. So, it is with great thanksgiving that our 6-year-old granddaughter, Ellyana Furno, asked Jesus into her heart in 2018. She and her family are a light for Jesus in Chicago and at the British School of Chicago where her mom, Nicole (my daughter) started a Moms in Prayer Group, which is where I learned the power of praying God’s word through a Moms in Touch prayer group at Westminster Academy.
- “Give thanks to the Lord, For He is good and His love endures forever” (Psalm 107:1).
For the “new thing” and many “options” He is now doing through Bible Study Fellowship worldwide! We give thanks to the Lord for Pastor Justin Beam and New Presbyterian Church welcoming the first “satellite discussion group” from the Tamarac class in Fort Lauderdale! We have over 40 ladies signed up including a 100-year-old woman celebrating 101 next week!
“We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, His power, and the wonders He has done” (Psalm 78:4).
Gita Santangelo, Community Prayer Partner
I am thankful for how God is always there for us in the good times and the trials.
George R. Moraitis, Jr., Moraitis, Cofar, Karney, Moraitis & Quailey
I am thankful to have been invited to work on a project that is going to radically improve the effectiveness of local ministry organizations and unleash the resources they need to support the work of Christ in our city.
JoAnne Daudt, P.A., President, StrikeForce 421
I am grateful for my husband, who is a consistent source of encouragement and leadership plus he makes me laugh….a lot… I am grateful for my Christ Fellowship family; not a day goes by that one of them does not inspire or encourage me. I would not be who I am today without them. I LOVE them and LOVE that we are family.
Julie Mullins, Pastor, Christ Fellowship
In 2018 I’m thankful for so many things, but having my 86-year-old Dad move back to Florida and live with me has been very special to be able to spend valuable time with him in his later years. Also this year, I’m very proud that Best Roofing was named “Commercial Contractor of the Year” by Roofing Contractor magazine. It’s truly an honor to be recognized by your peers within the industry.
Gregg Wallick, President/CEO, Best Roofing
I am thankful for my two children and grandson. I am also extremely grateful for my health and wonderful friendships and that God has given me a purpose to carry out.
Linda Giambattista, Co-Founder/Executive Director, Taylor’s Closet
This year my husband and I were able to travel together to Israel. It was a very special time staying with dear friends in Ariel. We have been there before on a tour, but this time we were able to live with the people of Israel and were immersed in their culture. I believe every Christian should go to Israel at least once in their lifetime!
Dr. Mary Drabik, President, South Florida Bible College & Theological Seminary
At the end of a year that has brought many challenges, the thing I am most thankful for is the enduring nature of God’s promises. “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end, they are new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22-23).
Nancy McDonald, President/CEO, Hope Women’s Centers
Thankful that in this year of transition and challenges, the Lord has shown me that He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all I could ask or think so long as I keep my heart thankful. Indeed, this is the year that I’ve learned that gratitude is the gateway to provision.
Oksana Horton, Artistic Director, Revelation Ministries
The one thing that I am thankful for that made this year special is that I recovered well from a serious surgical operation to prevent my colon from re-twisting.
O’Neal Dozier, Pastor, The Worldwide Christian Center
This year I am thankful for the birth of my 3rd grandchild, Micah, the growth of my son Timothy who will graduate in May with his Christian Ministry degree, and the love and support of all my extended family. My greatest gratitude comes from being able and allowed to serve Christ!
Patricia Colangelo, EdS, Director of Operations, Florida, Trinity International University
One thing I am especially grateful for this Thanksgiving is… I am realizing the older I get, the more humbled and amazed I am by the incredible Grace and Mercy of Almighty God and His Unwavering Faithfulness!!! GOD is so Good!!!
Coach Rick Andreassen, Founder/President, SAINTS International Sports Ministry and SAINTS of Florida Homeschool P.E.
I’m thankful for God, my family and the opportunity to serve people in need.
Robin Martin, Executive Director, Rebuilding Together Broward
There are several things I’m thankful for this year. I’m thankful for my faith, my family and my friends. I’m very thankful for my wife of 36 years and the positive influence she has had on my life. Lastly, I’m thankful for our agency, Mount Bethel Ministries and the entire community of faith that has played a vital role in our ability to serve those considered “the least of these!” To God be the glory!
Dr. Rosby L. Glover, Executive Director, Mount Bethel Human Services
I am thankful that I termed out of my nine years on the Fort Lauderdale Commission! Although very thankful for the opportunity to serve and work with a great Mayor, Commission and City staff, it was time for me to get back to a normal schedule and spend more time with my wife, family and friends as well as the full time practice of law. Keeping the 93-year-old law firm going that my grandfather started, my father and I continued and which now employs my son, is a high honor and privileged, but requires lots of time and attention.
Romney C. Rogers, Managing Partner, Rogers, Morris & Ziegler LLP
I’m thankful for the unity of our staff here at VLC has, that falls in line with the oneness (unity) Jesus has with the Father and the Father with Him, and also expects of us. I’m thankful for the doors that have recently been flung open wide to express our faith in Jesus at home, nationally and internationally. A lot of Kingdom things are happening and will continue to happen as a result.
Ron Bramos, Senior Pastor, Victory Life Church
I am especially thankful for my family and my dogs. Both love me when I don’t deserve it.
Samuel Lamerson, PhD, President/Professor of New Testament, Knox Theological Seminary
I am grateful for the men and women and our friends who have supported Women Impacting the Nation. We are incredibly humbled by their belief and support in our mission. And I am grateful for my family’s support with the calling God has given me.
Sue Trombino, Founder, Women Impacting the Nation
This year was a huge blessing as many years of hard work paid off when I was awarded an honorary doctorate by Piedmont International University, and when a network I lead, American Christian Leaders for Israel, put on a collaborative celebration of Israel’s 70th Anniversary in Washington, DC. Over 40 Christian organizations sponsored the event, which drew an audience from over 40 countries. Praise the Lord!
Susan Michael, US Director, International Christian Embassy Jerusalem
Throughout the year, there are many times that I am able to counsel women to choose life for their unborn baby. One woman shared, “You didn’t just save my baby that day,” she said, with tears in her eyes. “You saved me!” And, the woman accepted Jesus as her Savior and came to church. I am blessed beyond measure to be used by God as an instrument to bring hope into women’s lives.
Tewannah Aman, Executive Director, Broward County Right to Life
GRANDKIDS!!!!
Thomas L. Lukasik, Vice President Community Engagement, 4KIDS of South Florida
My thankfulness in love most often turns to our Lord and my precious family whom I’m always amazed by! This year our attention zeroed in to a new family member. Our 8-month-old Cody (Poodle Pup) has been giving us all a new sense of unconditional love for sure. Trouble is we are all chopped liver due to this new “head-turning cutie.” Thank you, Jesus!
Virlee “Vee” S. Stepelton, Ministry Advocate
Judge Brett Kavanaugh being confirmed as our newest Supreme Court Justice, fulfilling another President Trump “Promise Made – Promise Kept!!” Moreover, it showed the Pro-Abortion, Liberal Left that you cannot bully and lie your way to power and threaten the lives of the good, wholesome citizens in this country.
Hosting “Pro-Life Movie Night at the Cobb Theater” to watch the ever-critical movie, “Gosnell.” I bought out the entire theater of 160 seats and 150 devout Pro-Lifers showed up for this awesome event, that included a phenomenal “Pre-movie” presentation; Prayers with the entire group standing Two-gether as One Body in Christ; and nice commentaries from Catholic priests, Father Tom Barrett (St. Ignatius Catholic Church), and Father John Mericantante (Retired pastor from St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pahokee).
Willy Guardiola, Christian on a Mission
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