Struggling Economy Does Not Discourage Thanksgiving Shoppers

Many shoppers on Tuesday at in the Centre of New England were eager to share why they and millions of Americans will be happy to celebrate Thanksgiving of 2011.

But even in the wake of a struggling economy, only a few people among the dozens interviewed, from high school students to seniors, grumbled about being “not so thankful” for the upcoming holiday.

“I am happy to make a difference during the holiday where I work nearby as a housekeeping supervisor at a senior citizens assisted-living center,” said Mary Lou Ackert of Coventry.

Joseph Golomboski, a Johnston Tea Party member, said it “was more about the family. But I also like to give back to the community through a food drive. We filled two boxes full of food from into two recycling bins from six businesses,” he added.

“It is a wonderful time for me and my family,” said Rebecca of West Warwick, who was shopping with her three young children.

 “I am thankful I have anything to be thankful for, especially with the economy being the way it is” said Sue Spink of Exeter. “I am also thankful for my good health and my family, including my Mom and kids.”

If there were a long-distance contest among those interviewed, Roy and Anna, “45 miles north of Houston”, would have easily won. “We each have three kids, and we’re thankful they are healthy and the family is healthy and happy, too,” said Roy, noting the kids are back in Texas. “I delivered some machine parts, but I don’t think we will be able to get back. So it looks like we will be having dinner at Crackerbarrel.”

Tyler, his girlfriend, Melissa, and her son, Jaiden, all of Coventry, were looking forward to celebrating the holiday. “It is a time to forget the stresses of life and enjoy it with the family,” Tyler said.

Karen of West Warwick and another woman immediately mentioned their religion, Christianity, as the major reason they feel so thankful.

Justin and Steph, a young couple from East Greenwich and West Warwick, simply said they were content to have jobs and “feel blessed to have what we have despite the economy.”

Lingering and high unemployment figures continue to plague the Ocean State. But on this brisk late afternoon in Coventry, most people interviewed said they were eager to share the holiday with family and friends and even help strangers to make the holiday a happier and more meaningful occasion for all.

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