The last year has been trying for Garner, but we have much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.

With the embezzlement discovery in January and the resulting loss of Phil Mitchell as the GVFR Inc., fire chief, Garner residents were saddened and frustrated early in the year. And yet, this year's Firemen's Day was a success. The community rallied around the firefighters and newly appointed Chief Matt Poole to show thanks for our servicemen and women. And better still, Station #4 will open next week, making it easier to provide service to more Garner residents.

Wake County commissioners had to make tough decisions this spring that nearly closed the doors of the Southeast Regional Library. Once again, Garner rallied to display the importance of the library in the community and eventually got commissioners to remove the library from the chopping block.

This fall, assault charges against EMS Chief Bill Frederick made emotions run high as residents of Garner grew frustrated by the idea that the Town could have been duped by another community member in the services field. The Town assured residents that the move from the Garner EMS to Wake County EMS during the same time would maintain a high standard for services.

When residents discovered the orange route of the 540 extension would affect more than 1,000 people and wipe out many homes, it was no wonder that the community banned together immediately and stood up to ask the hard questions of the N.C. Turnpike Authority last week.

Garner has so much to be thankful for through all of the experiences. We have seen just how strong we are as a community. Despite those aggravating issues and the still downturned economy, Garner residents have stood together - helping each other through outreach in local churches, celebrating milestones like the one-year anniversary of White Deer Park and never forgetting to say thank you with ceremonies like on Veterans Day.

We have amazing students in our schools that showcase their talents on stage and on the football field. We have great small business owners that remain open despite tough times. We have family, friends and neighbors that will be there in the good and the bad.

A couple of weeks ago, we asked you to send us your thoughts. What are you most thankful for this Thanksgiving? Family. Friends. Good Health. All good answers.

I have a couple I'd like to add to the list.

I would like to say a special thank you to the great people in our community for showing Garner's resilience through thick and thin this year. And thank you to our readers for your loyalty when it's difficult to make a decision about where you should spend your hard-earned money. I am thankful for you all.

Happy Thanksgiving!