SPANISH FORT, Ala. — From family to football, Spanish Fort residents don’t mince words when it comes time to reflect on life’s many blessings.

And from the city’s continued growth and safety of U.S. troops to sustained economic recovery and overall good health, here in their own words are just a few things on the minds and in the hearts of the city’s servants.

*Mayor Joe Bonner:

I’m thankful for a faith which surrounds me each day; for a loving wife who taught our kids well; and for working for the city of Spanish Fort, Ala., in this great U.S.A

*Chairman Pro Tempore and District 2 City Councilman Mike McMillan:

I am most thankful for faith, family and friends; the right to choose your faith; and the privilege to worship it in the manner you prefer.

I am thankful for family, the beauty of these bonds and the comfort of friends.

I am also thankful for the past elections and the hope they bring to our state and nation.

*District 5 City Councilwoman Mary Brabner:

I am extremely thankful for my family, both immediate and extended. When you have an 85-year-old father with dementia you stop taking things for granted and do your best to live each day to the fullest, with no regrets!

I am thankful that the BP Oil spill, although quite a disaster, was not as horrible and far-reaching as it could have been. While the oil spill shut doors to many it opened new doors of opportunity to others.

I am thankful that the city of Spanish Fort did not have to lay off any employees; did not have to put a furlough policy into effect; or ask employees to take pay cuts in 2010. I am thankful to the city leaders that preceded me for their thriftiness in spending that has allowed us to continue to operate at full capacity in a “down economy.

I am thankful that the Fed(eral Reserve) has kept interest rates low so that everyone and their brother has their eyes opened to the opportunity to either buy a new house or refinance the house they currently own. This increased volume of mortgage activity has enabled us to keep two boys at the University of Alabama … Roll Tide … Beat Auburn!

I am thankful to represent the citizens of city of Spanish Fort for the past six years. I cannot imagine living in a better city where the city leaders, for the most part, share a vision of moving Spanish Fort forward while retaining the small-town feel that was the driving force for many of us moving to Spanish Fort.

I am thankful that the Spanish Fort (High School) Toros are returning to the (semifinals) of the state 5A (football) Championships. When you go to a game “on the Hill” or an away game, you see a community spirit and school spirit that cannot be beat. This community thrives on supporting the Toros and is proud of the team and the sportsmanship that is exhibited by the student athletes. Go Toros …. Beat McAdory!

Last but not least, I am proud to be an American and have the opportunity and freedom to tell you of the things of which I am thankful. Thank you to our veterans who have unselfishly given of themselves so that we can be proud to be Americans. Thanks Daddy!

*Planning Commissioner Tom Montgomery:

Gosh, so many blessings for one man to count: My wonderful wife of 36 years who loves and guides me; two beautiful daughters; and have I showed you the photos of my two granddaughters?

Faithful, patient friends who suffer my many faults. Employment opportunities with outstanding colleagues. The blessing of living in the absolute best country on the Earth and having had the opportunity to serve. But most of all, I am thankful for grace, because without that I would really be in trouble!

*Planning Commissioner Maura Dismuke:

I am thankful for many, many things but I am most thankful I was blessed with another year with my sister.

We didn’t have to deal with any hurricanes, and the oil spill disaster has renewed interest and resources for developing alternate energy sources and protecting our environment.

*City Clerk Mary Lynn Williams:

I am very thankful this holiday season for a wonderful God; to be blessed with a great family and friends; to live in such a wonderful country; for good health; and for  wonderful position with the city of Spanish Fort that allows me to serve for an awesome mayor and city council.

*Permit Clerk Donna Dunning:

I’m thankful for my family; for our blessings of just having a home, food, our good health and much love in these uncertain times. I’m also thankful to be fortunate to live and work in Spanish Fort. It’s great to have a job with the city that I really like with people that I really like and think of as extended family!

*City Attorney David Conner:

I’m thankful for the comfort and peace in knowing that God loves and cares for us, and I’m thankful for my wife, Lori, my children, Lillie, Benjamin and William, and all of our wonderful family and friends.

*Fire Chief Roger Few:

I am thankful for all God has provided to me and my family. 

I am thankful for my wonderful and understanding wife and my two beautiful daughters.

I am thankful that we live in a country that affords us the many freedoms the U.S. does.

I am thankful for our community, city and department members for the support they provide the fire department.