Happy Thanksgiving!
By B.J. Reyes
Gov. Linda Lingle didn’t go so far as visiting a turkey farm to pardon some unfortunate bird, but she and Lt. Gov. James “Duke” Aiona did issue their annual Thanksgiving Day message.
The full text of the message:
Message from Governor Linda Lingle
and
Lt. Governor James R. “Duke” Aiona, Jr.
on the occasion of
THANKSGIVING
NOVEMBER 27, 2008
As the holiday season approaches, we would like to wish the people of Hawai‘i a happy Thanksgiving. We are grateful that our state’s rich mix of cultures and traditions cultivates a unique harmony, reflecting the countless blessings we enjoy.
During these challenging economic times, we are reminded that a valued part of our holiday tradition is Hawai‘i residents’ willingness to share their time and treasures with those less fortunate members of our community. Many will serve meals to the hungry or donate food to a needy family. Each one of us can make a difference by being involved in our community. By sharing our aloha with those who need it most, together we can strengthen our economy, helping to ensure growth in the years ahead.
In Hawai‘i, the stunning beauty of our islands, a diverse culture which welcomes new friends and old, and the ideals of ‘ohana, which tie us to this special place we call home, are among the blessings for which we can be thankful. Let us also take a moment to remember our troops in the Middle East who are sacrificing time with their families to protect the principles of freedom and democracy. We appreciate the efforts made by the members of our armed forces and their ‘ohana.
Our Administration is truly thankful for the people of Hawai‘i who make our state an exceptional place to live, work and raise a family. We are proud to be a part of a country where we are empowered to help those around us in need.
Aloha,
Linda Lingle
Governor, State of Hawai‘i
James R. “Duke” Aiona, Jr.
Lieutenant Governor, State of Hawai‘i
~~
Meanwhile, making sure to not miss an opportunity to seize on a four-letter theme that worked successfully for a certain Punahou alum, Mayor Mufi Hannemann also issued his annual holiday message.
The full text:
Mayor Mufi Hannemann’s
THANKSGIVING MESSAGE
We can be thankful for so much, particularly for the knowledge and comfort that our nation continues to be a bastion of freedom and democracy in the world. Yes, our financial industry is struggling. Businesses and consumers are retrenching. American troops are in harm’s way in Iraq and Afghanistan. And we have our individual worries and concerns.
But we can also be deeply grateful for the love and affection of our families, the companionship and support of good friends, and the blessings of life in a beautiful island state. We can also be thankful that we have, above all, hope: Hope that each new day will bring us opportunities for a better life in this great land. It was in this spirit that the Pilgrims celebrated the first Thanksgiving, and it is in this spirit that we celebrate this holiday today.
Gail and I wish you and yours a happy and blessed Thanksgiving. Aloha.
