Well, it’s here – the holiday season is upon us. As families across Maine put up trees, and wreaths, and lights, and as, this very weekend, our Jewish friends light the first candle on the menorah to mark the beginning of Hanukkah, we know that we are in the full swing of holiday season.
This is Governor Janet Mills and thank you for listening.
Thankfully, this holiday season is looking to be a full return to the traditions we celebrated before the pandemic. And I know Maine people are looking forward to enjoying this time of year with friends and family. I am, too.
But, hey, if you haven’t finished your holiday shopping yet, or if you are a bit of a last-minute shopper as I am, I wanted to take the opportunity to encourage you and all Maine people to shop local this holiday season.
You know, Maine is home to more than 150,000 small businesses – that’s 99 percent of all businesses in our state and many of them are retail businesses selling local products. These businesses are the cornerstones of our downtowns, the employers of our friends and family members, and they are a big driver of our economy.
I guarantee you this – no matter who you’re shopping for, you can find a special gift made here in Maine and sold right here in Maine. If you need a little inspiration, our state’s “Maine Made” program is a great place to start.
From specialty soaps handcrafted in Fort Kent to surfboards made with Maine wood in York, guitars made in Lewiston, the guide is a great resource for local products made and sold all across our state.
All you got to do is visit mainemade.com. That’s mainemade.com.
M-a-i-n-e M-a-d-e dot com. Check it out. You’ll find some pretty great things.
When you buy local, you’ll not only make a loved one feel special with a great gift, but you’ll be supporting Maine small businesses and the good people they employ, and our economy in the process.
I hope you’ll join me in supporting Maine small businesses this year, and, as always, be sure to check-in on your neighbors and be kind to one another – this season, and every season.
This is Governor Janet Mills wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season – and thank you for listening.