From the November 27, 2008

Traditions, reflection, kindness & volunteering

Thanksgiving brings tradition, reflection and acts of kindness.

Pecan pie is the traditional hit in my family and the baker is my dad, retired railroader Bobby Collins.

Dad is typically the kitchen chef and manager, a title he inherited from my late Grandma Mary Ellen Collins.

My mom, Carolyn, niece Brenna and I are the kitchen assistants and the clean-up committee, while set-up and take down is handled by the GUYS COMMITTEE, Austin and Alex Smith, and Sean and Nathan Collins.

So ... when the doorbell rings with relatives, we're ready! Good food, pecan pie, football, games and cards are all part of the traditional day at The Collins' before the switching to other relative's houses occurs.

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the past year and be thankful for the health, jobs and growth within our families.

Some aren't so fortunate. Whether it be the loss of a loved one, a recent divorce, separation, loss of a job, hard times with your children, or illness ... my heart goes out to you.

Loss of jobs has created shortages at local pantries this year, but differences can be made by small acts of kindness.

It's amazing how a small monetary or food donation from each family can make a major difference.

Thanksgiving is a time for all families to gather and with kindnesses from each other we can help make it happen.

I want to thank the many volunteers who help at our local pantries, deliver meals on wheels to the homebound, assist with the elderly and the many others who reach out each and every week to help make a difference.

A special thank you to my aunt Sandra Kelley for our weekly Tuesday luncheons.

To Spotlight readers, advertisers, newspaper staff, my family and friends and those in need ... Happy Thanksgiving and safe travels to all!

God Bless.

The Spotlight
4217 S. Meridian, Indianapolis, IN 46217
Office: 317-444-4554

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From December 11, 2008 issue

• Contractor's hobby leads to beloved south side business
By Denise Summers, Editorial Assistant

• Good Time Singers draw on wealth of experience for performances
Our bond is that we care about music and we care about others
By Fred D. Cavinder, Spotlight correspondent

• Santa to visit home center

• Southport Mayor donates salary

• SPOTLIGHT BRIEFS

 
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• Arts & Entertainment Page

 
• Looking Back
By Robin Graves, Spotlight staff

• Reality As I See It
By Denise Summers, Spotlight staff

• Kelly's Korner
By Kelly Smith, Spotlight staff

• Sports Page