Rachel Thurmond of Lincolnton, Sadie Hunt of Metasville, Helen Welch of Thomson and Linda Cox of Lincolnton took a copy of The Journal with them to Holmes Beach on Anna Marie Island in Florida.

While there they went on a boat ride to see the dolphins and traveled down to Sarasota for a tour of the Mote Aquarium. They enjoyed seeing the dolphins, large sea turtles, manatee, as well as many other sea animals. They also enjoyed shopping, eating out and sight-seeing. The white, sandy beaches were beautiful.

The trip was a Christmas gift to them from Daniel and Jennifer Thurmond who also accompanied them on the trip.