On Thanksgiving, we gather with family, friends and loved ones to enjoy a unique and cherished American tradition. This special holiday provides us with an opportunity to embrace our diversity, put aside our differences, and unite to give thanks for what matters most - freedom and peace, health and happiness, family and friendship.

On this day, we are mindful of the faith and spiritual values that are deeply woven into the fabric of our community and ingrained even deeper in the hearts of each and every one of us.

This Thanksgiving, Fort Lauderdale has so much for which we are grateful. Our economy is strong, our quality of life remains high, and recent trends signal a bright future for our City. Tourism is on a record-breaking pace, unemployment is low, property values are rising, private investment in our City continues to surge, and the marine industry just completed its most successful Boat Show in history!

I would like to give special thanks to our City employees for their tremendous hard work, dedication, and commitment to building community. It is because of your teamwork and perseverance that we are successfully fulfilling our shared Vision and transforming Fort Lauderdale into "The City You Never Want to Leave."

But what truly makes Thanksgiving so special is all of our neighbors. I offer my heartfelt thanks to all of you for your continued participation, dedication, and involvement in all of our City programs, activities, and initiatives. You are the heart and soul of our community and your passion, commitment and support shine brightly as we continue to work together to create a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable City.

On this day of reflection and promise, I encourage all of us to rededicate ourselves to helping those in need. By sharing the gifts of service, fellowship, kindness and compassion, we can spread the blessings of Thanksgiving every day of the year, bring sunshine into the lives of others and, together, make Fort Lauderdale an even better place to live, work, play, visit and raise a family.

May God Bless you and your families on Thanksgiving and may God Bless America.

John P. "Jack" Seiler
Mayor