Hello. This is Governor Janet Mills, and thank you for listening.
Well, it's that most wonderful time of the year, with several important holidays right around the corner, Christmas and Hanukkah. And of course, after that, New Year's.
Christmas is one of my personal favorite holidays. I have a big family, however, and I'm a little behind on wrapping presents for next week.
You know, our state is home to people of many faiths, many backgrounds, many beliefs. And no matter what holiday you may be celebrating or what occasion you're observing this year, I just want to wish you and all Maine people a happy holiday season filled with the love of friends and family, gathered around some good food, and gathered in warm and safe homes.
And while I hope that this holiday season is full of joy for everyone, I also know some folks may be struggling this time of year. Some people may be away. They may be on active duty, unable to be at home for the holidays. Some may be struggling to make ends meet. Some may not have close friends or family here to celebrate with, or some may be mourning the loss of a loved one who'll be missing from their table this year.
This year I'll be missing my brother, David, and my eldest daughter, Allison, both of whom passed away this year. Love makes that loss a little easier to bear, and I'm looking forward to sharing my favorite memories of my brother and my daughter with the rest of my family.
The State of Maine also lost a friend this week. Dave Mallett, singer-songwriter, lyricist, guitar player, harmonica player. And you know, he was a great member of the Maine community born and raised in Sebec – and lived most of his life in Sebec, in rural Maine – and wrote songs about small town Maine, which I just love. I think about, in a time when people turn to computers or A.I. to understand sometimes what they should be thinking, what to say, what to feel, it's artists like Dave Mallett who tell us the truth, who remind us what love, and grief, and joy are all about. He poured his soul out in his lyrics and the music that ran through his fingers on the guitar. His talent was in connecting his soul with ours in a powerful and originally humane way. Dave was a great Mainer, and we treasure him and we regret his loss.
But this holiday season, let's all hold our family and friends, neighbors, and loved ones close and be grateful for the gift of our time together. Let's honor the sacrifice of servicemembers and their families who keep us all safe, and first responders who will be on duty all through the holidays as well. Let's rest for a bit and reflect on the past year as we prepare for the year ahead.
So from my family to yours, I wish you a Merry Christmas!
And to Maine's Jewish community, Happy Hanukkah, and pleasant memories for all – and pleasant celebrations and gatherings for all Maine people.
This is Governor Janet Mills. And thank you for listening.