As Thanksgiving approaches, the spirit of gratitude is alive and well in our community. From city hall to the corner store, from gelato cafés to tire shops, the people who make our towns tick are pausing to reflect on what truly matters: family, health, the kindness of neighbors, and the loyal customers who keep small businesses going—even in tough times.
Here’s what some of your friends and neighbors want you to know this Thanksgiving:
From the Vision Times family
“Dear Readers,
As Thanksgiving approaches, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for your continued trust and support. In a time when truth and hope matter more than ever, your readership inspires us to keep bringing authentic stories and insightful perspectives to light.
May your Thanksgiving be filled with peace, warmth, and meaningful moments with family and friends. Thank you for being part of the Vision Times community.”
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— The Vision Times Publisher Team
Middletown Mayor Joseph DeStefano
“As we celebrate this joyful season, I want to extend my warmest wishes to every resident, every family, and every neighborhood across our great city. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Holidays, and a very Happy New Year to all of you.
This is a time when we pause to reflect on the blessings we share—our families, our friendships, and our community. Middletown continues to grow stronger because of the people who call it home: the volunteers who give their time, the workers who keep our city moving, the small businesses that brighten our streets, and the families who bring life and energy to every block.
I am grateful for the spirit of kindness and generosity that shines in Middletown this time of year. Whether it’s supporting a local charity, checking in on a neighbor, or simply spreading a little cheer, these small acts remind us of what truly matters.
As we look toward the New Year, I remain committed to working hard on your behalf—continuing to strengthen our neighborhoods, improve quality of life, and keep Middletown a city we are all proud to call home.
On behalf of my family and the entire City of Middletown team, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Holidays, and a very Happy and Healthy New Year. May the season bring you peace, hope, and joy.”
Warm regards,
Joseph DeStefano
Mayor, City of Middletown
Assembly Member Paula Elaine Kay – 100th District
“This time of year reminds us how much we rely on one another. If we each look for opportunities to spread kindness each day, our community grows a little stronger and a little warmer. I’m grateful for all the families and neighbors who look out for one another throughout the year, and I wish every household a peaceful, healthy, and joyful season filled with new memories to treasure.”
Vicki – Tranquili Tea & ARTVICKI CREATIONS
“We’re most thankful for the amazing customers who turned into friends and for their continued support. I’m thankful for my family, for health, and for the community that is building here—the new businesses coming in and the ones that continue to thrive.”
Ugo – The Umbrella of Grace African Market
“Thanksgiving is a period when families come together. I just want to appreciate our loyal customers—even with the way the economy is right now, some without jobs, some with jobs that aren’t even sure—they still come. I thank God for life, for good health, and for going into my 14th year in business when so many stores open and close. I lift up my customers every day because if it is well with them, it will be well with me. Wishing everyone a glorious Thanksgiving and believing the next year will be better.”
Tyrina – Janoy Boutique
“I appreciate everything I’ve accomplished—being able to do it on my own with help from family, especially my mom. The ups and downs just make you a better person. You learn from your mistakes, and if it doesn’t work out one way, you do it a different way.”
Claudy – Dadou’s Haitian Restaurant
“Food is expensive. Everything is expensive. People need to share as much as they can with neighbors and everybody. That’s what Thanksgiving is—you share what God gave you with other people.”
Krissy – Gio’s Gelato Cafe (Port Jervis)
“Family is so important. Cherish one another. Get around the dining room table, talk, tell stories, eat—and don’t forget the dessert! Life is short, so enjoy the moments, the quiet, the storytelling. I’m thankful for our customers who support us, for having a job, and for my health and my family’s health.”
Juan – Palma Tires
“Happy Thanksgiving and thank you all for your support. I’m thankful for my health, my family, and for all the customers we have.”
Dave – Rolling Thunder Audio
“I’m thankful I made it through COVID and I’m still here after 32 years. Mostly I’m thankful for my family—especially my son who helps share the load—and for the customers who keep supporting us.”
Claudy – Claudy Mini Market
“I thank my family—my daughter, my wife—for their support. I thank the police and firefighters who keep this area safe. Hopefully people can come shop, enjoy with their families, and everything goes well this season.”
This Thanksgiving, our community is counting its blessings—and the biggest one is each other.
Whether it’s a kind word, a shared meal, or simply choosing to shop local, the small acts of support we give one another are what keep Middletown, Port Jervis, and all our neighboring towns strong, warm, and full of hope.
From all of us at Vision Times to all of you: May your tables be full, your homes be warm, and your hearts be even fuller.
Happy Thanksgiving.
