Papa Doug and Geniya Manchester.
This season we have much to be thankful for. We pledge to continue to make a positive impact and difference to help shape the city we love and community we call home. Geniya and I pray that families and friends of all faiths will find this a time of shared happiness and cherished memories.
We give thanks for everything we have been blessed with, and also take the time to give to those less fortunate. Our heartfelt prayers go out to people throughout the world who face hardships every day, from those suffering from mental illness, or poor health, to those who are hungry and do not have a home. We pray for children all over the world to have the chance for joy, peace and a loving family. We also pray that this country unites under the banner of good will and prosperity. It’s not enough to merely accept these tragedies as part of our daily lives, we must unite to help others with their burdens whenever we can.
Our family also extends special prayers to all of our military members and their families. They represent the best and brightest among us, and their sacrifices and efforts to protect our freedom are so very much appreciated. I would like to express my personal gratitude for all of those who serve and also for those who supported the USO San Diego and Mt. Soledad Veteran’s Memorial, which is now a memorial in perpetuity for all San Diegans.
Lastly and most importantly, we give thanks to our philanthropic leaders and giving community in San Diego for all of their generosity which has touched the lives of so many. We hope that our community leaders will continue to open their hearts, extend their hands, expand their generosity and give to those who are most in need. Our strength is in our passion, will and spiritual commitment to better all of those around us.
Geniya and I feel blessed to be surrounded by the most incredible family and friends and welcome new children and grandchildren to the Manchester family.
Our family is a constant source of joy, and I pray that you cherish your loved ones and find happiness and joy too. We are reminded of the importance of family and community during this time, and may we find ways in our own lives – through an act of kindness, a thoughtful gesture, a comforting word – to have a positive impact on those around us.
We will continue to dedicate ourselves to transforming this community and incredible city to even greater heights. I encourage all of us to do whatever we can, and I pray that you and your families experience happiness during this joyous season and throughout all of 2017.
God bless,
Papa Doug and Geniya Manchester
