Giving Thanks and Giving Back: The Heart of Our Community

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, our thoughts turn to Thanksgiving – a time of warmth, family, and gratitude. Here in our beautiful corner of New England, from the rolling hills of North Haverhill to the serene waters of Wells River, Thanksgiving isn’t just a holiday; it’s a celebration of community.

Thanksgiving is a special day. It’s a time when we gather around the table with our families and friends. We share stories, laughter, and, of course, our favorite dishes. Whether it’s grandma’s pumpkin pie in South Ryegate or grandpa’s apple cider from Groton, each bite is a reminder of the love and care that binds our community.

But, let's not forget what makes our towns truly special - our local businesses. These aren't just shops or services; they're part of our family. When we buy a gift from a store in Bradford or enjoy a meal at a restaurant in Woodsville, we’re not just customers; we’re neighbors supporting each other.

Why is this so important? Because every time we choose to spend our money locally, we're helping a dream thrive. We're keeping jobs in our community, supporting local families, and preserving the unique charm of our towns, from Bath, NH to Newbury Center, VT.

This Thanksgiving, let’s show our gratitude not just in words, but in actions. Let’s visit the small businesses in Haverhill and Bradford Center. Let’s choose local crafts from Wells River as gifts for our loved ones. Each purchase, no matter how small, is a way of saying "thank you" to the hardworking folks who keep our communities vibrant.

As we sit down to our Thanksgiving feasts this year, let’s remember the hands that helped bring it to our tables. From the farmers in the fields to the shopkeepers on Main Street, each one plays a part in our Thanksgiving story.

In this season of giving, let's give back to the places we call home. Let's fill our hearts with gratitude and our communities with support. Together, we can make this Thanksgiving a true celebration of the spirit that makes our towns not just places on a map, but homes in our hearts.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! Let’s make it a season of giving, sharing, and cherishing all that makes our communities wonderful.

-Joshua Smith (Yankee Kingdom Media)