We are a family. And while it’s impossible for all 170,000 of us to gather around the table at Thanksgiving to say what we’re thankful for, we can share a little here.
This assignment has been one of my favorites. I expected to hear from a handful of people who are thankful for the usual things — family, friends, health, Publix — but I never expected so many wonderful stories of genuine gratitude. This holiday season, I am thankful most of all for my amazing family and this wonderful company, but also for a job which allows me to hear — and share — your beautiful stories. Thank you!
— Corporate Communications Developer Hannah Railey
“I am thankful for my amazing and beautiful wife, Rachel McClelland Stewart, who works in pharmacy operations and was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma eight days after the birth of our first child, Gage. She has handled this adversity with amazing courage and perseverance, and I am so proud of her. Her ever-continuing smile says it all.”
— IT Buyer Chad Stewart
“I am thankful for answered prayers in my daughter Rachel’s battle with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.”
— Corporate Purchasing Support Martha McClelland
“I am most thankful for my son and wife being here with me today. On May 14, 2012, I got the news no parent ever wants to hear — your child has cancer. My then three-year-old son Mikey was diagnosed with stage four neuroblastoma. He battled through multiple chemotherapies, eight surgeries, a stem cell transplant, radiation therapy and immunotherapy. He can now focus on the things he loves most like being with his family, reading, playing with technology and going to school. We would not have been able to travel this hard journey without keeping our faith and having the support from our families, friends and Publix family. Mikey is truly an inspiration to many. He is the bravest person I know. He is my hero.”
— Assistant Store Manager Michael Joffe, #758, Poinciana, Florida
“I am thankful for my nana. She is smart, giving, non-judgmental and kind. She is 93 and one of a kind. I am truly grateful she is still in my life after 30 years.”
— Marketing Project Manager Tamme Goble
“I am very grateful for the birth of my first grandchild, Gemma Mildred Johnson, on Sept. 12.”
— Cashier Pauline Brennan, #436, Orlando, Florida
“This year, for the first time ever, all of my children were together in one place at one time.”
— ASRS Maintenance Technician Jamont Hoage
“I am thankful for my 10 beautiful children.”
— Assistant Customer Service Manager Charmaine Sadowsky, #484, Boynton Beach, Florida
“I am thankful for my husband, Assistant Grocery Manager Tony Previte, #810, New Port Richey, Florida. We both work for Publix in different areas, so our schedules tend to conflict at times. Even if we go days without seeing each other, he always goes out of his way to make sure I am happy.”
— Customer Care Specialist Melissa Previte
“I am thankful I work for an amazing company that, over the last 25 years, has helped me grow through all the milestones of my life. My Publix family stood by me through the sadness of losing a parent at Thanksgiving to the happiness of spending 12 weeks at home with each of my children.”
— Store Manager Nancy Colon, #1387, Winter Park, Florida
“I am thankful for the men and women of our armed forces who made plenty of sacrifices which allow us to enjoy the freedom of this great nation. I am also thankful for my family and true friends. God bless America!”
— Associate Customer Technical Support Analyst Timothy Payne
Publix News Live: Giving Thanks
Hear Publix associates give thanks. Whether it’s the people in our lives, troops who fight for our freedom or having a great place to work, we all have things to be thankful for. Find out what some of your co-workers are thankful for this holiday season by watching this month’s Publix News Live.
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You can read many more touching stories from thankful associates.
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Atlanta
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Jacksonville
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Miami
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“I am thankful for my father-in-law, wife and daughter. My father-in-law John allowed me to marry his daughter and we have been married for 14 years October 3. He has also helped me learn how important it is to communicate. My wife Laura has helped make me a better person and has been there for me and our daughter Teegan. Laura makes sure we know where we need to be and keeps on top of everything. Teegan has been an eye-opener. She is now 14 years old and keeps reminding me of how different we were at that age. She attends a Christian school, has led groups she belongs to and has done many charitable and selfless acts for others. I am thankful that I am a part of Teegan, Laura and John’s life. They have made me better, and I hope that in turn I have helped them and others.”
— IS Systems Analyst/Programmer AJ Ahrens
“I am most thankful God has blessed me with parents who sacrificed of themselves to provide my sister and myself a better life, a spouse who loves me for me, friends who have remained friends even through rough times, a position at work that I enjoy and, of course, His forgiveness.”
— I/S Telecommunications Retail Coordinator Eddie Alvarez
“I am thankful for being able to be thankful.”
— Category Manager Werner Asanger
I’m grateful for the opportunity to work for a company I believe in. So much so that I shop at Publix, often re-investing back to a company that allows me to be a stockholder. Last year in October of 2013, I looked up from shopping to see a young lady I knew for about 30 years. That glance led to over an hour conversation on aisle five at the Grove Park Publix. In just three short months, that spark would result in me marrying the love of my life, Samantha E. Baker, Jan. 14, 2014. It also was an honor because that is my birthday as well. I’m thankful that shopping is a pleasure. It’s also a pleasure to find a soul mate at Publix and make my life complete!”
— Cafeteria Team Leader David Jerome Baker
“I am thankful for my family and for Mr. George. Mr. George gave us a company that is strong and well respected. He was a visionary in how to treat your employees and suppliers. He went above and beyond in contributing in the communities in which our stores operated.”
— Facility Services Assistant Manager Jeff Beringer
“For starters, I’m thankful I woke up this morning. I’m grateful that throughout the day, I was provided with sufficient oxygen to allow for my lungs to be ventilated. I’m appreciative for my blood having enough hemoglobin (I was borderline anemic for much of my childhood) to allow me to make it through the day. I’m flattered that I might be considered lucky enough to have seen firsthand the plight of third world countries and what it looks like for a parent to have to choose between medicine for their kids or food on the table… I’m amazed that the world has spun on its axis at the perfect speed at just the right angle for the sun not to be too hot to scorch us to flames or too far away to freeze us to death. [I’m thankful that] somehow the law of gravity has remained constant and we all haven’t just floated away or the moon is visible to us at night and provides us with spectacular views that begin to describe the amazing and breathtaking sight of knowing that the one who created everything I’ve ever laid eyes on created me, too! We are living, breathing miracles that testify to the beauty of creation all around us, and the very least we have to do is remember to give thanks to the one responsible for it all. So someone might ask, what I’m grateful for. There’s isn’t anything I’m not grateful for, from everything I’ve been blessed to see and experience — even if it wasn’t exactly the way I had hoped for — to the things I don’t possess. I have to believe everything I’ve been given was intentional and wasn’t by chance or coincidence but purposeful. And, if that’s the case, then the only thing that’s left to do is constantly remind myself that everything I’ve ever obtained was because someone else played a part in it.”
— Sr. Process Improvement Engineer Alex Bertran
“For most of us, we are always thankful for friends and family. While it’s true I am blessed beyond words that everyone I love is safe, healthy and happy, it is my dog that makes me especially thankful. November will be two years since I rescued her from the pound. She (Jenny Sue) has brought me immeasurable joy! A loyal and constant companion, she is truly my best friend.”
— Pharmacy Admin Scheduler Deidre Bland
“Before I arrived at Publix 14 years ago, I knew the company was on the Fortune 100 Best Places to Work list. But I truthfully didn’t think such a big organization could possibly live up to Publix’s reputation as being one big family. Well, I was wrong. And I am so thankful I decided to join Publix. I had an exciting career in the newspaper business before coming here. But these 14 years have been the most rewarding of my life. I am thankful Mr. George created an ownership culture that makes us all have skin in the game. That brings out the best in everyone. I am thankful Publix is so dedicated to integrity and to living within its means. A company that avoids long-term debt is a company that survives recessions and competition. I am thankful associates at Publix are so polite and caring — to each other, not just to our customers in the store. I am thankful I have had a role as talent acquisition manager in bringing terrific human beings, not just skilled ones, to the company. Most of all, I am thankful that I have worked for the best leader I’ve ever known, Alison Midili Smith. She helped make me a better person and a better leader during my tenure here. In February, I will be retiring. I have nothing but great memories to take with me.”
— Manager of Talent Acquisition Patti Breckenridge
“I am thankful for the things that cannot be bought. My family, true friends, faith and peace. At a time when things are so chaotic and unpredictable, it is good to know that rich or poor, you have the necessary things in life to sustain you. The love of my family and friends and the strength of my God helps me continue to believe good things are possible in the times we now live in.”
— Redemptions/LCA Specialist Erika Brown
“I’m thankful to have grown up in Publix, from PCDC to my first job in high school to being a full time associate months after I graduated college! Publix has provided for my whole life and I am so thankful to be given the opportunity to make this company my lifetime career like many of my family and friends.”
— Production Coordination Analyst Laura Brunson
“I am thankful for my God, my children, my friends, my church and my great job at Publix warehouse for the last 14+ years. I am very blessed to wake up happy and healthy every day. I am also soon to be a grandmother for the first time — can’t wait.”
— Christina M. Burns, Produce Warehouse
“I am thankful for my wonderful husband and son that God sent me. I am thankful for my sister (and best friend ever) and her family. I am grateful to be blessed with friends. I am thankful to work for Publix in an exceptional department with exceptional leadership. I am also thankful for my many daily blessings that I sometimes take for granted and for the simple pleasures of life — an awesome sunny day, a chat with a dear friend, a new flower that bloomed in my flower bed, a smile and kind word. And I’m thankful to live in this beautiful country and the freedom we enjoy. I’m thankful for my faith and health. I am truly blessed.”
— Public Affairs Administrative Support Kathy Fleming
“This is a year to be thankful. [From] buying a home with my boyfriend and my (our) kids in February, to getting engaged in May to getting married this December. I have beautiful healthy kids, love and a great job. I’m thankful for this time in my life.”
— Prepress Technician Stefanie Gawtrey
“I look around every day and feel blessed to know so many wonderful, kind people. I am thankful to have a healthy, happy family and to have a close extended family. I think about dear friends of mine who are battling cancer, and I am constantly amazed at what strong, positive individuals they are who embrace life to the fullest each and every day. I strive to have their outlook on life. I am thankful for the individuals I work with at Publix and those I’ve known throughout my career. You have all helped shape me into the person I am today. And I’m thankful my father told me to get a job when I was 16. Without his nudge, I wouldn’t be working at what may possibly be the best company in the world.”
— Corporate Communications Strategist Dena Gregory
“I am most thankful for sharing my life with some extraordinary people. Every day is a gift! I miss those in my life who are now gone, but am most thankful to have been able to spend the moments I had with them.”
— Sr. Training Specialist Amiee Hamilton-Goss
“I am thankful for this amazing company and working in the same building as my mother!”
— General Liability Claims Adjuster Cody Herndon
“I am most grateful for my family — a terrific husband, wonderful other mother (mother-in-law), son and daughter I can be proud of (and am!), in-laws who can stand to be around me and three spectacular grandkids. My extended family of siblings, nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews are a special blessing. But I am also grateful for my Publix family! These are the people I work with every day. They show in little ways they care. When someone takes a vacation, they’re missed — and welcomed back. When someone is sick, they worry and pray and are glad when you come back, but keep checking to be sure you’re not over-exerting yourself. They see a soon-to-be mother and truly want to know how she’s doing and encourage her. They ask about a co-worker’s child or grandchild and really want to know about them. They encourage each other when there’s a career opportunity or recognition of a special talent. They give generously to others in need. They pitch in to complete any task thrown our way. They like to have fun! I have been blessed with two types of families that I like to be around and miss when I can’t see them. It’s so nice to look forward to coming to work every day!”
— Associate Resources Support Coleen Hart
“I am very thankful for my wife and everything the Lord puts in my life — good or bad, it’s being put there to learn from.”
— Medical Review Support Dennis Hice
“I am very thankful for my wife, Galina. We met five short months ago and fell deeply in love. We married Sept. 12, 2014, and for the first time in my life, I have truly found my soul mate.”
— Atlanta Bakery Plant Engineer Ron Housel
“I am thankful for my career of 22 years at Publix. It is great to work for a company that cares about their associates and shows their appreciation every day. Publix offers so many great benefits to their associates and communities.”
— Medical Review Supervisor Debbie Kaufmann
“I am thankful for so much, but especially Tommy, on loan to us from God!”
— ISTS O/W Service Specialist Tom Martinez
“My family… healthy and happy.”
— Manager of Associate Wellness Mendi McDowell
“I’m thankful to work at a company with family and those that might as well be family. I’m also thankful for Publix buttercream icing!”
— Retail Communications Specialist Annie Mears
“There is a two part answer to this question and I will do my best to provide the answer. Leadership! I am thankful for the amazing person Mr. George was and all of the life lessons he taught us … I have used them with my children and in the community many times. They are timeless! Everybody has a Publix story of how they started their career and I certainly have mine. I am amazed today at the person I am because of the leadership I received as a young associate. I have been mentored by so many great leaders [and] it has helped me in so many different aspects of my life. Examples would be finishing college and earning a master’s degree and volunteering in my community. Publix leadership taught me the importance of knowing your business so that we can each do our part in making Publix Super Markets the premier super market in the world. I never will forget the day I sat and actually had lunch with the president of Publix Super Markets. At the time it was Ed Crenshaw. He sat down and I looked around and no one else was coming and he actually started a conversation with me that I still cherish today. It left a lasting impression on me and I never have forgotten it. Some years later, I was working on a special project and our paths crossed again at dinner. Ed talked to me about my family, my position at Publix and the importance of being an owner at Publix. It was very sincere and something I will never forget … Finally, I am thankful for the co-workers I work with and the new ones I meet every day. They are all special and always amaze me with their dedication and service. I am thankful to be a part of such a great place to work.”
— Program Cost Manager Brad Newell
“I have so many things to be thankful for… thankful that I will be able to celebrate my birthday, right on Thanksgiving day, after going through 10 months of cancer treatments this year. And, thankful for my Publix family for support through my journey this year.”
— Senior Tax Specialist Dolly O’Connor
“I am thankful for my amazing family and friends.”
— Retail Communications Specialist Barbara Oguntola
“I am thankful every day for my beautiful, healthy, amazing children Kyndall and Keegan!”
— IT Buyer Jan Ouellette
“This is just my second year with the information systems team at Publix. I already feel I have come a long way in learning new processes and how to execute them efficiently, regardless of how heterogeneous one’s work environment is! I am really thankful to my past and present managers (mentors would be a better word to describe them) for showing tremendous faith in my talent and execution ability. My manager and my team are always there when I need them — what better can I ask for! I will take this opportunity to thank these individuals:
- Jennifer Schmucker — For making me part of Publix family and giving me a perfect platform to launch my Publix career
- Vlad Ali — For making sure I become agile in my approach while tackling complex issues without sacrificing quality of the solution
- Chris Sykes — For making sure I stay analytic and thorough enough in designing any solution
- Geoffery Castro — For giving great support on my first ever project at Publix last year
I feel I am in firm and secure hands of Publix family. Thanks for everything.”
— Systems Analyst/Programmer Pranav Patel
“I am thankful for my wife of 42 years, thankful to be born in this country, thankful for the women and men that help to keep America free and thankful to be employed by the best food retailer in the world.”
— Jacksonville Grocery Warehouse Supervisor Stephen Raulerson
“Thankful for all the Lord has given us, all He gives us and all the Lord will give us — all the blessings, health, wealth, love, peace and harmony. [I’m] thankful for that unique special thing about our families, friends and associates — today and always.”
— Manufacturing IT Programmer Javier Reyes
“I’m thankful for my daughter Jordyn Grace Robinson and my family that supports me every day.”
— Security Officer Jackie Robinson
“When people think of what they are most thankful for, what naturally comes to mind is family, friends, their job, their home. It reminds us that we are to never take our blessings for granted. The blessings I am thankful for are the ones I did not plan on — my niece and nephew. Years ago, I discovered I was unable to bear children. I accepted this as a fact of my life and poured my energy into other outlets. My nephew was born on Christmas Day, 2005 — a very joyous time of year. Eighteen months later, my niece was born. It was a short time afterward that these two blessings were discovered to be in disguise. Through no fault of theirs, they were left in the sole care of my brother. Feeling strong maternal instincts within, I decided rather quickly to help my brother co-parent these two beautiful children. More than six years later, I still “share custody” of them both; taking them every other weekend, over school holidays, trips to theme parks and mini adventures. I share bedtime stories and school projects and Christmas mornings — occasions they may have missed out on without a mother figure. For all of these years, I have not once thought about the inability to have my own children. And the ironic twist to that is, I already do. Sometimes God works in mysterious ways in answering prayers. His response to my heartbreak is what I am most thankful for.”
— Supervisor of Logistics Operations Danika Samuels
“I am thankful to still have my mom with me. She is 91 years old and a breast cancer survivor.”
— EDI Coordinator Laraine Schamel
“I am thankful that in 1973 there was an opportunity for me to go to work in a brand new store (#175), and be engaged and tutored by a whole group of thoughtful, caring people which has allowed me to spend my whole adult life surrounded by a great Publix Family. Thank you Lord, and thank you Mr. George.”
— Corporate Communications Manager Fred Schiebel
“The joys of life: faith, health, family, home and friends”
— Public Affairs Administrative Support Iris Stackpole
“I am thankful for Publix people who are involved as responsible citizens in our communities. We are more than just a grocery store!”
— Regional Director Administrative Assistant Susie Stalhut
“I am thankful for my amazing best friend, Sasha Whittington, who has been there for literally everything in my life for the past ten years. Life is far too crazy to not have someone to finish your sentences, lend you clothes and make you laugh on a daily basis. Sasha is kind, full of life and one of the funniest people I know. I’m lucky to have her in my life!”
— Social Media Specialist Kandi Steiner
“I am so blessed to be a Publix associate since July 31, 2000. Working in personnel records as a leaves clerk has been a great experience. I am thankful Mr. George’s vision was realized, and I was given the opportunity to be a part of the Publix family.”
— Medical Leaves Clerk Janet Trent
“I am thankful for education and training development welcoming me in with open arms. This department knows how to make work fun while accomplishing goals! I am so grateful for being able to work with an amazing group of creative individuals.”
— Education and Training Development Support Jenn Twohig
“I’m thankful my daughter is healthy, smart, talented and beautiful after a rough start in her life. I’m thankful for the doctors and nurses who cared for her, the teachers who have helped develop her and our family who has made sacrifices so she can have everything she wants and needs to be happy. I’m thankful I work with fun, caring people who are dedicated to growing our company and introducing new initiatives to further differentiate us from our competition. And I’m thankful they see the value I bring and the role I play in rolling out those initiatives.”
— Corporate Communications Developer Karyn Waters
“I’m thankful for my amazing home and work families, wonderful friends and Publix Premium Santa’s White Christmas ice cream.”
— Corporate Communications Developer Michele Williams
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Atlanta
“I am thankful for the blessing of a new opportunity. I am a single mom and have worked 79 hours a week at three jobs for the past eight years. Because of the many hours I was working, I had little time to spend with my family, and my energy and quality of life were at an all-time low. But, thanks to the confidence and support of Publix and my store manager, Scott Deak, I feel blessed, happy and alive. I recently was given the gift of full-time employment in a position I love. Thanks, Publix and Scott, for the opportunity to reclaim my life.”
— Bakery Clerk Terri Carter, #616, Alpharetta, Georgia
“I am thankful for all of my wonderful co-workers here at Publix who have become some of my best friends over the years! I’m thankful they can make my working experience that much more enjoyable.”
— Office Staff Samantha Lullie, #1060, Alpharetta, Georgia
“I am thankful that God has given me a community and a job in which I can freely meet and love people from all walks of life and many ethnic backgrounds. I will always cherish these relationships, which could not happen in much of the world today.”
— Cashier Pat Singleton, #146, Kennesaw, Georgia
“I am thankful for life, my family and the amazing opportunity that is Publix! It is awesome to be part of an industry leader. I’m thankful for the chance to become a leader backed by visionary leadership. Publix is in position to help its associates grow and move the company forward. I want to thank the leaders on my team — Leonard (VoiChandler, Dursun Ali Polat and Albert Dimercurio. They have helped me to see that the Publix Deli is both challenging and rewarding. Leaders will themselves to success!”
— Special Event Planner DeShaun Taylor, #841, Birmingham, Alabama
“I am thankful to work for a company that has always challenged me to grow and develop. I started in 1976 as a 16-year-old front service clerk and have always felt excited about the opportunities and challenges my career has provided me. Over the years, I have enjoyed growing up in an environment in which I was asked to give just a little bit more than I thought I could — from giving your last ounce of strength working 100 hours in a week during Hurricane Andrew recovery to giving a little more each year toward the United Way. No matter what the challenge, it has always been character building, making me stronger, wiser and definitely more appreciative as my career has progressed. There is no question I am thankful everyday for this great company.”
— District Manager Wes York
“I’m thankful that I have the chance to follow in the legacy handed down from our founder, Mr. George Jenkins. Mr. George believed in well-lit stores, well-stocked stores, clean stores and, above all else, he believed in premier customer service. I’m thankful Publix gives each associate the tools and training needed to become the best we can be. As Mr. George used to say, ‘You ain’t seen nothing yet!’”
— Front Service Clerk Stoney Stonecypher, # 165, Homewood, Alabama
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Charlotte
“I am thankful for my job here at Publix #525 in Augusta, Ga and our customers! Thank you to Mr. George for founding this great company! I love Publix.”
— Front Service Clerk Jesse Chancey, #525, Augusta, Georgia
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Jacksonville
“I deeply love my store manager Myron Harrison. I recently asked if I could work here until age 90 and he said yes. This picture shows my lab Gunner and lovely daughter Stephanie who graduated summa cum laude from FAMU and is now pursuing her masters in social work. I am very, very immensely proud.”
— Front Service Clerk Robert Craig, #1401, Tallahassee, Florida
“What I’m most grateful for is having breast cancer. Yes, breast cancer! The reason is because it brought me closer to Christ. On Dec. 12, 2012, I was told I had breast cancer and that it had spread to my lymph nodes. After I hung up the phone from listening to what the doctor had to say, the first words to come out of my mouth were ‘Thank you, Jesus.’ After all, I’m a Christian and believe in Christ, right? Well, to be honest, I think He was telling me to see just how much faith/belief I had in him. Well, January 2, 2015 will be two years free of cancer. I had eight chemotherapy treatments, 45 radiation treatments and several surgeries in 2013. It was hard and painful, but I made it! I’m here! I found strength within myself I never knew I had. My mother carried me for nine months and I never would have imagined she would be carrying me again 42 years later to my treatments. She fed me when I was too weak to feed myself. She clothed me, bathed me and simply took care of me. She would drive every other Wednesday from Gainesville to Jacksonville to be here for me. I’m so grateful to have a mother like her. Also, other family members and my Publix family as well.”
— Full-time Baker Cassandra Penny, #502, Fleming Island, Florida
“The amazing humans [in this picture] are prime examples of true Publix-spirited managers. Mr. Sal has only been with my department for a short period of time, but he is the greatest deli manager I have worked for yet in this company. To his side, Ms. Lisa is the sunshine that holds our department together when our department needs it the most. It is because of managers like Sal and Lisa that this company has its superior reputation. There is not a doubt in my mind that our department wouldn’t function as well as it does now if it were not for these outstanding managers! I will forever be grateful and THANKFUL to have had the honest pleasure to have met and worked with such great managers. My life has forever been changed for the greater because of two managers who are the true soul and spirit of our Publix deli. If any managers deserve to be a part of such a great company like Publix, Lisa and Sal are in first place.”
— Deli Clerk Ashley Preu, #727, Palatka, Florida
“I’m thankful most of all for my parents, Rev. James Clark and Ann Clark, who taught me about right and wrong.”
— Customer Service Staff Dorothy Smith, #649, Jacksonville, Florida
“There are many things in life that I am thankful for — my family, health, God, work and plenty more. But two years ago I was introduced to a woman named Stacy Moore at a United Way volunteering event. Since then, she has helped me do a 360 in my performance at Publix. She is not only an amazing assistant customer service manager, but also a mother figure to me. She has led and coached me to new adventures at Publix. Stacy bleeds green, and I hope to be like her in life. Her passion for her employees is outstanding. She goes out of her way to help us when we are in need. I am so blessed to have Stacy Moore in my life. I appreciate all that she does. So this year what I am thankful for the most is her, [because] without her, there is no telling where I would be at Publix. I knew I wanted to make a career out of Publix, but now I am aware of which department and how to get there, all thanks to her. If she didn’t involve herself in our lives, I would still be trying to figure out what to do.”
— Cashier Lindsey Teague, #760, Cocoa, Florida
“On Sept.12, 2013, I suffered a massive stroke. I was home alone for three and a half hours. My wife came home and, recognizing the symptoms, immediately took me to the hospital, where I was admitted. The next day, I was also diagnosed with pneumonia. The following day, I was put on a respirator. During the following days, I was treated for these two conditions. Also, during the next 10 days, I almost died twice, and was revived by my doctors. About two weeks later, I was transferred to a rehabilitation hospital in Jacksonville. While there, I received intense physical, speech and occupational therapy, which was very much needed, as I could hardly speak or swallow, did not know where I worked, what day it was, what city I was in, etc. Finally, approximately thirty-five days after having the stroke, I was released from the rehabilitation hospital. Following discharge from the hospital, I underwent three months of outpatient therapy, three times a week. Finally, during the first week of January, 2014, I was able to return to my duties at Publix. I am thankful for four things — first for God sparing my life during this time. Also, I am thankful for my wife, Ann. She stayed with me 24/7 while I was in the hospital as well as the rehabilitation hospital. She also took me to all my outpatient rehab and doctor appointments. I am also thankful for the doctors and nurses who took care of me. [Lastly], I am thankful to my co-workers at my store. Under the organization of co-workers Gina Babcock, Mary Beth Monihan, Missy Wilkes, Haley Bach, as well as many other associates, a fundraiser was held, and almost $3,000 was raised to help with medical and living expenses. This was a tremendous help, as I was unable to work for approximately three and a half months. I wish to also thank store manager Steve Bryant who allowed us to use an adjacent area for the fundraiser. We work for a great company staffed by wonderful people. Please reflect during this time and the upcoming holiday season what you are thankful for. I assure you, I will be doing the same.”
— Cashier Mark Wells, #1278, St. Augustine, Florida
“I am thankful to have a job with such a great company that has provided for me and my family for the past 23 years. Working for a company that is financially stable is very comforting in these stressful times of uncertainty about large companies. Throughout the years, I have seen this company grow from 400 plus stores to its current count of 1,083 stores and still growing. My company has continued to be a leader in the industry and our stores are recognized as the best place to shop.”
— Maintenance Supervisor Larry Zippel
Store 654, Orlando, Florida
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- Cordia Herndon is thankful for turning his years of working together with his co-workers into lifelong friendships that will never be forgotten.
- Sara Mund is thankful for our customers! She says, “They are the greatest human beings alive! Thank you for making my job super enjoyable and fun. I look forward to coming to work thanks to you!”
- Jace Roman is thankful for his family and friends that have supported him with every life decision he has made.
- Michael Giannotta dedicates his thankfulness to his girlfriend for showing him what love feels like, to Mr. George Jenkins for creating the premier quality retailer in the world and
- finally to Stan Lee for assembling the Avengers.
Thank you to my Publix for allowing me the opportunity to be part of a great store with great associates! You rock!
— Store Manager Kathy Lobinsky, #1231, St. Augustine, Florida
“I am thankful for the excellent team of leaders I get to work with every day. These Publix people inspire and challenge me on a daily basis and make me the best I can be!”
— Customer Service Retail Improvement Specialist Stacy Valoze
“I have been a pharmacist for 25 years but I have been in pharmacy since I was 15 years old — that’s a total of 32 years! I have been a Publix pharmacist for the last 11 years. Over the years, I’ve truly enjoyed interacting with my customers and have created many great relationships. I’ve been yearning for a new path in pharmacy and just couldn’t quite find what I was looking for until Publix created the Central Fill Pharmacy. It was exactly what I wanted without having to make the drastic change of leaving the company, which I did not want to do. I started with the Central Fill Pharmacy in August, and I am so thankful for this opportunity. It really has given me a whole new excitement for the field, but being behind the scenes. Central Pharmacy will be expanding in December and I’m so thankful I will be here to see this expansion. So, with that said I want to thank Publix and Marilyn Randolph, Central Fill Manager, for giving me this new opportunity. I’m truly thankful for it.”
— Central Pharmacy Pharmacist Lori Denby
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Lakeland
“I have been employed with Publix for nearly 20 years. This has allowed me to own a home and to pursue my passion for travel. I have visited four continents, 34 countries and 27 states. I thank God for the career I have with Publix.”
— Customer Service Staff Lily Cordova, #511, Tampa, Florida
“I’m thankful for each day, for every step we take and for challenges we have ahead of us — we never know what is coming and how it’s going to end. I am thankful for sacrifices we make. Sometimes it’s not easy, but it only makes us stronger. I’m thankful for learning day by day the kindness and feeling of others. That makes us better human beings and I’m thankful for that.”
— Cashier Anjanie Giggard, #1194, Kissimmee, Florida
“Simply one word, ‘YOU.’ As I have made my journey through the years at Publix, Publix has afforded me with many opportunities, and at each junction in my life, the things I have needed most have been available to me, if I so desired. As I’ve understood what it takes to obtain these things, I simply exerted the energy to pursue them and Publix has delivered. However, through all these years the [thing] I am most thankful for is you, the associates. As I’ve always stated, other companies can build nice stores, stock the shelves like ours, offer variety like we do and try to duplicate all of our successes, but they can never duplicate you!! You are unique with your own special personalities and characteristics. You are who you are by nature. However, you are Publix because of nurture. If each of us continues to take the opportunity to pass on just one small word of encouragement or just provide one random act of kindness daily, we will continue to perpetuate the Publix culture that was set forth by our founder Mr. George, and we will be a better company for it. You are Publix, therefore I am thankful!! Thank you for all you do on a daily basis — it truly is appreciated!”
— Store Manager Rick Hupp, #1271, Hudson, Florida
“I am thankful for my beautiful and amazing family.”
— Store Manager Sam Johnson, #810, New Port Richey, Florida
“I am thankful for my husband of 22 years, Greg Barnhill. He has supported and believed in me my entire career and is a true Publix Spouse! I couldn’t do it without him!
— Store Manager Chuck Kaelin, #511, Tampa, Florida
“I am so thankful for my children. Aria,10 months, and Carter, 5.”
— Customer Service Manager Erika Kolb, #1326
“I am thankful for my family, this beautiful country and for being a part of the best company in the world, Publix Supermarkets Inc. Let’s turn the clock back to Feb. 12, 1998. My parents along with four children — the oldest being 13 and youngest three years old — had just landed at Tampa International Airport. We were all born and raised in Bosnia. We all just set foot for the very first time on U.S. soil. I recall this as if it happened yesterday — we were looking around at the airport not quite sure what to do next. We were approached by an agent with World Relief, a humanitarian agency that guided us through the lengthy process to enter the country. They took a photo of us at the airport, family of six with about four large suitcases. That was the new beginning for all of us. It had to have been one of the toughest decisions my parents ever had to make — leave the country they love and grew up in, and all of our family and friends. All of this to get a fresh start at life and to provide a bright future for all of the kids. I was the first member of the family to get a job at Publix, almost 13 years ago at store 767 in New Port Richey as a front service clerk. I was then followed by my middle brother Dejan, mother Stefica, sister Lilly and finally the youngest member of the family got a job — guess where — Publix. Today, five of us, including my lovely wife Sarah, work for Publix. Publix has enabled us to get so much in life; my first car, first house, save for retirement, meet great people and [make] many memories over the years. I also met my wife at Publix. We have been married two years now and are expecting our first child. Now that we have a child on the way, I like to say if I am half the father to my own child that my father was to us and continues to be, I will be a great father. So today, I am able to say that not only do I have the greatest family, live in the greatest country in the world, but also work for the greatest company in the world. I, along with my family, are all thankful for that.”
– Assistant Store Manager Milan Kordic, #767, Port Richey, Florida
“I am thankful I had the opportunity to meet Mr. George and to have shared a conversation about giving to others as you were given to!”
— Assistant Store Manager Paul Larcom, #353, Dunedin, Florida
“I will always be truly grateful for my half-brother and half-sister whom I never knew existed until last year.”
— Seafood Clerk David Salyers, #1181, Kissimmee, Florida
“I am thankful for our amazing pharmacy team! They are simply the best!
- Jennifer Welch, #1302
- Tori Waggoner, #1327
- Precious Jenkins, #854
- Dinah Sumner, pharmacy scheduler
I am also thankful for my amazing supervisor, Maggie King. She has taught me so much about the world of pharmacy! I am grateful to be a part of Team King!”
— Pharmacy Scheduler Assistant Dinah Sumner
“I am thankful for my loving partner of almost 7 years, Jen Hild. She is absolutely the most loving person I have ever had the pleasure to know. She has been by my side through every obstacle that life has presented, whether that be the good times or the bad times… and for her I am truly grateful!”
— Grocery Clerk Ashley Verlin, #1326, Bradenton, Florida
“Back in 2006, I was working for the greatest company in the world. The funny thing is that I was looking for something better. My wife and I took a chance and we retired from this great company to start our own business. After some great success for about a year, things changed. After 18 months of so-called retirement, we came knocking on the door of this great company once again. With open arms we were accepted just like a parent welcomes its child back home, we felt welcomed and ready for a fresh start. It was at that time I knew Publix was where we needed to be for the rest of our working days. I decided at that point I was going to give Publix every bit of my energy and devotion to making it “a little better because of me.” I am thankful to be able to use Publix as my platform to make my community a better place to live. My associates have helped me in supporting local volunteer missions and we have been able to make a difference in our community. Thanks to Publix and second chances, I am able to help people have their second chance through our Habitat for Humanity program. I am thankful Publix is involved as responsible citizens in our communities. I am thankful our mission not only makes Publix the premier quality food retailer in the world, but that it makes me a better person. My entire family is involved with this great company and my children already talk about working here someday. I guess you could say we own a family business that we can hand over to our kids someday. That makes me thankful for the future also. Thank you Publix!!”
— Assistant Store Manager Steve Wojchowski, #643, New Port Richey, Florida
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Miami
“I am most thankful for my health. 2014 has been a great year for me. Less than a year ago, I was 338 pounds and my health was horrible. I had diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and my liver was in very bad shape because of my weight. On May 16, I had a procedure to help me lose weight, and I am happy to say I have lost over 110 pounds and all of those serious health issues I mentioned are a thing of the past. It took great courage to take such a drastic measure, but it was worth it. I am a store manager, have a great family and now great health. I am sharing this story with the hope it will inspire others to take control of their health, because it has truly changed my life.”
— Store Manager James Key, #1030, Port St. Lucie, Florida
“Today, I am thankful to be sober. Secondly, I am thankful for my family, friends and good health along with an awesome place at which to work.”
— Assistant Produce Manager Jeff Bancroft, #421, Boca Raton, Florida
“I am so thankful for having my job with Publix GreenWise. I love it so much. I look forward to coming to work every day and helping people plan for their parties, weddings and events … The one thing I don’t like is when I go away to a town or state and there is no Publix. I love Publix. It is a great place to work and shop.”
— Event Planner Donna Overfelt, #1157, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
“Mid-December 2008, my wonderful father went into congestive heart failure after a surgical procedure. I am thankful three times over from this experience. First, for my amazing store and district manager who gave me all the time needed with my family. Second, for #772 who had a banner welcoming my Dad — a daily customer — home. Third and most importantly, to Tampa General Hospital who on Aug. 25, 2009, performed a successful heart transplant for my father. Now every holiday since, I count my blessings for the miracle I witnessed and for the amazing doctors and wonderful people of Publix I call family.”
— Customer Service Manager Janeen Scarpa, #1378, Port St. Lucie, Florida
“I can write about a million things I am thankful for, but what sticks out the most is this sweet red-headed, 80-year-old woman we hired a few weeks ago who we call Ms. Jessie. She is just a ball of energy and the most grateful person you could ever meet. I’ve been helping her get adjusted at our location. She’s a reminder that the little things we do for others can change lives. I have watched her thank most of her co-workers for giving her the opportunity to work with them and also for having patience when showing her how to do things. I can’t count the numerous times Ms. Jessie has thanked me for just doing my part. She embodies the Publix culture — always smiling, wants to say hello to everyone, wants to help out where she can. Little does she know, she is what we needed at #1017. She gives us hope, laughter and joy when she enters a room. I’m most thankful for Ms. Jessie [because] she gives a different outlook on things. If you’re reading this and you’re ever in the North Miami Beach area, stop by #1017 and say hello to Ms. Jessie — she’ll be so happy to make a new friend.”
— Customer Service Team Leader Laura Simeon, #1017, North Miami, Florida
“I’m thankful for Mr. George starting this great company. I’m thankful for my friend who worked for Publix and told me to apply when I was out of college — without a job during the recession and going through hard times. Last but not least, I’m thankful for every associate and manager that has helped me grow along the way in this great career I stumbled upon.”
— Facility Safety Officer Rick Ruiz
“For me, this has been a year of many ups and downs. I’ve learned to be thankful for the family I have, and that no matter the distance, your family will forever have your back. I’ve been working for Publix for the past seven and a half years. This past year alone, I’ve worked in three different stores to get my hours (#222, #835 and #260) and have been lucky enough and thankful enough that I’ve been welcomed and treated like family when I first come in. I have some really great co-workers. I’m thankful I’ve gotten to witness my daughter and her two cousins grow to be happy, healthy babies who just lighten up my days after long days at work. But what I am most thankful for is the man of my dreams popping the question of marrying him. This year has been good, with a few bad days, but I’ve had to endure a few bad days to really enjoy and be thankful for the good days. Be thankful everyday to your loved ones, to anyone in the military, to customers and strangers alike, because you can easily turn someone’s frown into a smile.”
— Part-time Cashier, Store #835 Ashley Sandino
“I am thankful my grandson is able to grow up in a country with opportunities and the freedom of choice.
— Seafood Specialist, Store #770, Bonnie Jo Songer
