Around Jersey City last week, residents were decidedly focused on the simple yet important things this holiday season. Family and friends took top billing, and others counted their health – and mere presence on the planet – as worthy of their ritualized thanks.
On the job at the Heights’ West Coast Video on Central Avenue, Zulay Saez said she was thankful for family and friends. Co-worker Joelly Marin echoed Saez’s statements, saying she was particularly thankful for her infant son.
What are you thankful for this year?
"I’m thankful for friends and family… and for the chance to wake up every morning. And also video games and food." – Chanelle Bannister, 20, Lyndhurst
"I’m thankful for my trainer at my gym." – April Carlisle, 25, Hudson Street in Hoboken
"I’m thankful for my family, my Playstation, my computer, having food and being in a Catholic School [St. Aloysius Academy]. And J.K. Rowling for bringing out the Harry Potter books." – Maria Esquea, 14, Baldwin Avenue
"I’m thankful for my job and my family and friends." – Raphael Hilliard, 17, Palisade Avenue
"I’m thankful for my family, and for being alive. I’m also thankful for my 20-month year old son, Shawn." – Joelly Marin, 19, Pierce Street
"I’m…thankful that Anna Nicole Smith is going to be on TV again." – Marco Montalvo, 25, Zabriskie Street
"I’m thankful for having my parents, and for getting good grades. I’m also thankful for having Eminem as a rapper. He’s my favorite rapper." – Niyati Puri, 14, High Street
"I’m thankful for my kids, my husband, my health and my family." – Zulay Saez, 25, Hancock Avenue
"I’m thankful for family, friends and disposable tampons." – Kelly Williams, 26, Brunswick Street
