This holiday season, as families across Miami Beach come together, I am reminded of what makes this city and our country so great. As we all may know, Thanksgiving, began in Plymouth Colony and was intended to be a reflection by the Pilgrims who had traveled from Europe and settled in Plymouth Colony. The Pilgrims took great risk in traveling to America and today, many business owners, are taking similar modern day risks, every day. The decision to start or expand a business or to change careers in pursuit of something better are but a few examples of how we continue to take risks in search of something better for ourselves, our families and our communities. Thanksgiving is a time for us to reflect about how fortunate we all are to live in a country that allows for each and every person to determine his or her own future.
On that note, The Miami Beach Chamber is supporting Small Business Saturday – the day after Black Friday and before Cyber Monday. It’s a day dedicated to helping support the small businesses that help to create jobs, boost the economy and preserve our neighborhoods around the country (for more information please see our “Small Business Saturday” story in this edition). Please support Miami Beach small businesses, the backbone of our economy, this holiday season.
I’m amazed at the generosity of this city’s individuals and businesses, from small to big, during the holidays. Every year, the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce receives more and more gifts for deserving children for its toy drive. Many families will open their homes and wallets to those who are struggling in the spirit of charity to others. We can all be thankful that so many acts of charity by generous and giving Americans take place across this city and country. The amount of families and businesses in the city that donate their time to the needy is truly fantastic and I feel blessed to be part of our great community.
At a time when so many are struggling, Thanksgiving is an important time for us all to remember and give thanks for our nation’s many blessings. As Americans, we enjoy freedoms and liberties unrivaled anywhere else in the world. This year, I encourage everyone to really appreciate Thanksgiving for at least a day. Enjoy spending time with your friends and family and eating the best home cooked meal of your life. Take at least a moment to step back and appreciate all that you have.
At your service,
Jerry Libbin
Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce
President & CEO
