Thanksgiving always makes me pause and take stock, not just of what I have, but of who I have. The older I get, the more I realize that it’s the people, the places, and the communities around me that shape the rhythm of my life. Some offer support, others bring joy, and a few simply keep me sane. This year, I decided to write down twelve groups I’m especially thankful for, not because the list is complete, but because gratitude deserves names and stories.
First Presbyterian Church
Our active participation makes this the cog in the wheel that makes it all happen. Our wedding, kids’ baptisms, confirmations and growing up at the church, Kelsey and Zach’s recent wedding and much more have all been memorable parts of our family history. My pastors are holding me accountable, driving me to be better and provide a safe space for all of us to grow together.
Florida Southern College
Kim and I would not be who we are today without our lifetime relationship with the “Child of the Sun” college which boasts the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpieces. From meeting as undergrads, to an MBA, to being super fans for decades of the FSC basketball team, to proudly watching Kelsey graduate in 2022, and now Kim’s role on the FSC Board of Trustees. We love FSC!
Anna Maria Boat Company
Captain Justin Moore is a true friend who helps me reduce my stress and catch innumerable quantities of fish. I call him the “Fish Whisperer.”
Leadership Lakeland
Our daughter, Kelsey, was fortunate enough to be in the graduating class this year. Kim and I also participated years ago. This Lakeland Chamber of Commerce leadership development program is unparalleled.
GiveWell Community Foundation
Our small community is so philanthropic that it has created a Community Foundation right here. You don’t have to be a tech billionaire to have them assist you in carrying out even your modest philanthropic goals in a tax-efficient manner. This is another tool in my toolbox that has helped many clients.
The Magnificent 7
The 7 of us climb mountains, fly fish, work out, solve the world’s problems, help each other through struggles, and generally have a good time. We all need a group like this.
My Gym Community
My Gym CommunityMy trainer Tari and the whole crew at T-Fitness brighten my mornings. Ms. Denise inspires us, the young ones provide energy, and Tari motivates us all to be better physically and mentally. My day is always more productive when I don’t skip my workout.
Lakeland Regional Health, our hospital
They have guided many family members, friends, and clients through the most difficult of times. They make miracles happen even if the outcome is not what we hoped. We are blessed to have an amazing hospital with superior leadership
Bonnet Springs Park
The biggest thing to happen in Lakeland in decades. All the funding for this free park came from the community. Being there and watching families enjoy the outdoors on the Allen & Company Lawn makes me proud to be a part of it.
United Way of Central Florida
Our relationship with UWCF began in 1997 when I was a ‘Loaned Executive”. We’ve been involved in volunteer roles in both service and leadership since then. In my opinion, this is the best way to do good for others, even with a small amount of money. United Way employees have a special heart that most of us could learn from.
Vassor College basketball
Vassor College basketballOur son, Kale, has found his people, his tribe. Not just teammates, now his brothers. The shared experience of athletic competition is unparalleled in molding a person. Parents are not always successful keeping the young ones on track. This team and coaching staff have helped us do that.
Lakeland
I have called it home since middle school. I have been educated here, met my wife, started a career, raised kids, made lifelong friends, found a church family and helped families invest in their futures.
During this season of thankfulness, I truly feel blessed by these twelve things and so many more.
November 2025
