Friends, 

With hearts of gratitude, many of us will gather with family and friends this week to observe Thanksgiving. I try to use every opportunity I can to share my thanks and appreciation for God's blessings, for the privilege of serving as your Mayor, and for the people of Little Rock.

I'm especially thankful for our City of Little Rock team. They make my job easier and are committed to excellence in public service. As we celebrate Thanksgiving this year, I've asked a few of our team members to offer some words on Thanksgiving. 

I hope you enjoy reading their encouraging messages as much as I have, and I wish you a Happy Thanksgiving!

Tonisha Porter

Are you thankful or are you grateful? Webster defines “thankful” as being pleased or relieved and “grateful” as showing an appreciation of kindness.  This time of year is primarily focused on being thankful. Getting that warm and fuzzy feeling thinking of the things our lives include: food, shelter, the presence of friends and family…we are pleased and relieved that all is well. But it’s just a feeling.

Gratefulness is more profound. It requires something of you—a sacrifice, a push to go beyond the surface toward action.

We should never stop at just feeling good about something. You feel good about people in your life? Tell them! You’re thankful for the abundance of food or clothing you have? Donate the excess to a food bank or shelter! Gratitude opens the door for more meaningful relationships and it’s contagious!
So are you thankful, or are you grateful? From here out, let’s shoot for both!

Tonisha Porter is data coordinator for the Department of Community Programs

Nicholas L. Norfolk

When I think about Thanksgiving, I immediately start to reflect and reminisce. The first thing that comes to mind is the time with my family. Being in their presence brings my heart joy. I am more than thankful for having a family that loves, supports, and encourages me. Whether breaking bread with one another, playing games, or sharing stories, they provide me with much-needed solace.

Although you may know me by my first name, it is my last name that I am honored to preserve. I am a firm believer that I am my ancestors’ wildest dreams. It is for that reason alone that I remain resolute in not only being the best version of myself, but also reaching back and helping those around me. That is why serving my community is imperative. I pay homage to my ancestors by practicing the philosophy of Sankofa and the Nguzo Saba.

Nicholas Norfolk is network data center administrator for the Department of Information Technology

Hannah Ratzlaff

There is a poem called “Autumn Fires” by Robert Louis Stevenson I tend to reach back to at the turn of the season. The poem has come to mark the reliable and dramatic shift from summer to autumn and always gives me feelings of intense gratitude.

From late August to October, I hold my breath for this shift, and as soon as the anticipation for a reprieve of the heat feels eternal, the world lets out a big gust of fresh, cold wind. The maples and ginkgos burn ruby and gold.

The leaves make noises everywhere we step. Arkansas glows. Everything changes and in doing so tells us to look back and cherish what has been consistent and comforting. Thankfulness is inherently nostalgic and finds us during times of severe or subtle change. I’m incredibly grateful for this dramatic and bold yearly reminder to cherish my loved ones and rediscover thankfulness.

Hannah Ratzlaff is an urban designer in the Planning and Development Department

Keytia Long

One day, while watching some random television show, I thought, “I’m thirsty." I paused the TV, rose out of my recliner, walked into the kitchen, got a glass out of the cabinet, opened the refrigerator, and poured myself a glass of juice. Heading back to sit down, I was suddenly struck by several blessings I normally took for granted.

I live in home with comforts and luxuries that many others do not have. Nothing fancy, but the utilities are on. I have the ability to think and walk, freely. The smart television allows me pause it, so I don’t miss anything. Numerous glasses in the cabinet and beverages from which to choose in the fridge.

I don’t have everything I want, however, I have more than enough of what I need. And for that, I am more than thankful.

Keytia Long is a community care advocate for the City of Little Rock's 311 service

Amanda Watson

Thanksgiving is a time for me to pause and appreciate the things I am grateful for. I am immensely thankful for my three children - Colton, Donovan, and Arianna. They bring joy to my life, and every moment spent with them is a treasure.

I am also grateful for my mother, who is always there to guide me through the toughest of situations. My father is another source of constant support no matter what time of day, and he will always be my hero. I have three devoted brothers who are always there for me whenever I need them.

Lastly, I am thankful for my spouse, Eric, who encourages me to persevere through life's most challenging times. I am beyond grateful for all the people in my life who make it worth living.

Amanda Watson is special operations manager for the Finance Department

Ben Hammond

Thanksgiving for me is the official start of the holiday season. It’s a time to give attention to all that we have to be thankful for. I’m most thankful for my wife and four boys and I believe it’s important to share the tradition of Thanksgiving with them and teach them to continue it down the line.

Everything important to me comes together during Thanksgiving: family, food, and football! Beyond that, there are two things that we should always keep in mind: if you are fortunate enough to be able to help others around you, do it. Also, the weekend after thanksgiving is the earliest appropriate time to begin decorating for Christmas! Yes, I said it! Happy Thanksgiving everyone! ​

Ben Hammond is a captain in the Little Rock Fire Department

• The Little Rock Board of Directors will meet Tuesday, Nov. 21, at 6 p.m. at The Centre at University Park, 6401 W. 12th St. All board meetings are livestreamed on the City of Little Rock Facebook and YouTube pages.
• "Bright the Night" kicks off the holiday season on Tuesday, Nov. 21, with the lighting of the Downtown Christmas tree in Capitol Plaza, at the intersection of Capitol Avenue and Main Street. The event, originally scheduled for today, was postponed a day because of forecasted rain. Festivities start at 5:30 p.m. and include free hot chocolate, coffee and cookies, with entertainment from the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra and the Saint Mark Sanctuary Choir. Downtown Little Rock Partnership hosts this annual event.
• City offices are closed Thursday, Nov. 23, in observance of Thanksgiving Day. Sanitation and recycling pickup scheduled for Thursday will be pushed back a day because of the holiday.