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Local Politicians Plenty Thankful on Thanksgiving Day
A local lawmaker says he always has things he can be thankful for, but this year, he says there's one thing that's really special.

We asked several local politicians recently what they're thankful for.

We start with 74th District State Representative Don Moffitt, who tells WGIL he's got his health, his family does too, and among the other things he's thankful for, is one thing that happened a couple of months ago.

"I'm thankful that our son has returned home safely from a tour of duty in Afghanistan." Moffitt said emotionally. "When I mention him, I think of all the other soldiers who have served, and that are serving, and those families. We need to remember all of them, and above all, remember those fallen soldiers who paid the ultimate price."

Moffitt's son, Tech Sergeant Justin Moffitt, returned home from Afghanistan two months ago after a four-month tour of duty with the Peoria-based 182nd Airlift Wing.

Moffitt says he's also thankful for all the public support while his son was away, thankful for the state and his country, thankful for his constituents, and he's also thankful that his family farm near Gilson has seen one of the best harvest years they've ever seen.

Here's what others we asked had to say.

Ken Goad, Galesburg First Ward Alderman: "I'm thankful for health, and my family, and being able to serve the city. And the people that elected me, I'm thankful for all of them, and I'm thankful that I live in the great country of the United States of America."

Stephen Johnson, recently announced as stepping from his seat on the Knox County Board from District Five: "I'm thankful for a loving wife and my children and grandchildren. I'm thankful to be able to live in a free society, and to share the bounty of a good meal with loving friends."

Paul Stewart, Knox County Board District Two: "I'm thankful to be back in Galesburg, where I was born and raised. It brings back a lot of fond memories, and I'm hoping that I can contribute by my being on the County Board to improvement to the community."

Johnson, tongue in cheek, told us that while he may not have the biggest turkey on the block this Thanksgiving day, his wife may think he is one.

Moffitt also said he's thankful he's not the one carving the turkey. In fact, Moffitt says he doesn't believe anyone thinks that's even a good idea, but will do his part in enjoying the meal and complimenting the chef.

What are you thankful for: E-MAIL US HERE and share your story. We'll post your responses here on WGIL.COM. Be sure to include your name and where you live.
11 26 08 by Newsroom
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