Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday, it’s a moment to pause and reflect on what matters most—family, friends, community, and the shared journey we take together. At Gulf South Forest Products, Thanksgiving isn’t just a day on the calendar—it’s a tradition that binds us as a team and deepens our connection with the people we serve.
This year, we celebrated Thanksgiving on Tuesday, just a bit early, to ensure that everyone could spend the official holiday with their families. But even on a weekday, the warmth and gratitude we shared made it feel like home.
Our celebration was simple yet heartfelt. In true Gulf South style, we fried a turkey right in the alleyway. It’s become a bit of a tradition for us—a deliciously unpolished nod to the camaraderie that makes this team so special. Everyone pitched in with potluck dishes, creating a spread as diverse and rich as the relationships that fuel our work. From savory sides to sweet desserts, each dish carried a story, a memory, or a recipe passed down through generations.
Before we dug in, John Yohanan, our CEO/President, gathered us together. Holding hands in a circle, we paused, quieting the bustle for a moment of grace. John’s words resonated deeply as he spoke from the heart about his gratitude for his parents, whose values and lessons shaped the foundation of his leadership, and for every member of our Gulf South family. He reminded us that our success as a company isn’t measured in numbers alone but in the trust we build with one another, with our customers, and with our partners in the industry.
This Thanksgiving, we’re especially thankful for:
Our Industry Partners: Your collaboration and expertise drive innovation and keep us pushing forward.
Our Customers: You are the reason we’re here, and we are grateful for every opportunity to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Our Team: Your dedication, creativity, and teamwork inspire us daily and create a culture where everyone can thrive.
As we head into the holiday season, we carry the spirit of Thanksgiving with us. It’s a reminder that what we do is not just about business—it’s about building something far more lasting: trust, connection, and a shared vision for a better future.
To everyone reading this—whether you’re a customer, vendor, or a valued member of the Gulf South family—thank you. Thank you for believing in us, supporting us, and being part of our story. Here’s to another year of growth, partnership, and gratitude.
From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving! May your holiday be filled with love, laughter, and the joy of togetherness.
Warm wishes,
The Gulf South Forest Products Team
