Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. It is owned by everyone, celebrated by all, with no requirement to participate, other than an appetite. I believe that Thanksgiving could potentially be our country’s greatest export to the world. Envision an international day to express thanks for what we have, as well as an opportunity to thank those who have positively impacted our lives, our community, our nation and our world.

As your mayor, I have had the privilege of being a part of and witness to many wonderful events in our community this past year: events as well as individual acts that I wish to acknowledge and give thanks for. Thank you:

Myra Lupton for your vision and energy in the development of the first sailing program at Luther Burbank Park (A.K.A. Myra’s Armada).

Callie Ridolfi and the Farmers Market (MIFM) leadership team: Jason King, Tracy Landsman, Edee Phillips and dozens of MIFM steering committee members for enriching our community by establishing our own Farmers Market (I might add, a very successful market).

Phil Flash for inviting me to your 90th birthday celebration and sharing the lessons to a life well lived: You’re a wonderful role model for us all to emulate.

Mercer Island city staff for surpassing the previous performance survey results, which were already the envy of the region. You consistently deliver outstanding service to our community.

Dog walkers in Pioneer Park who brighten my mornings and start my dog and I off on the right foot/paw every day.

Fletch Waller, Dan Taylor, Stowe Sprague, Tony Ridgeway, Brian Emanuel, Terry Pottmeyer, Pat Braman, Dave Saporta, Debbie Bertlin, Bryan Cairns, Julie Crow, Don Cohen, Linus Toy, Joe Wallis, Susan Kaplin and all of the citizens who worked on the parks levy/bond ballot initiative. The Island owes you a debt of gratitude for your hours of commitment to improving the quality of life that we all value on the Island.

MI Foundation for your commitment to our community and your silent financial support of a myriad of community activities.

Meal providers who served over 9,300 individual meals to our Tent City guests during their stay.

The Chamber of Commerce and the countless volunteers who are spearheading our new downtown tradition: Third Thursday. Remember our downtown businesses when shopping for this holiday season.

Dr. Bob Lewis for your example of community service which I first witnessed in the 1970s at a Rotary meeting and has been a guiding light in my life ever since. As Rotarians pledge, “Service above self.”

Youth Theater Northwest for the production of yet another great show: “Robin Hood,” in their 25th anniversary year. I strongly encourage other Islanders to buy a ticket or two, three or more and have a great time.

Jane Meyer-Brahm and the Sister City Association for enriching our community by all your efforts in nurturing our sister city relationship with Thonon-les-Baines.

My fellow councilmembers who debate the issues vigorously, passionately and with integrity. With the choices that we are destined to make, due to the future economic uncertainty, I could not wish for a better collection of public servants.

Mercer Island High School Band and the energy you have created in our community. Very impressive!

Jim Trombold for your service to Mercer Island over the years that has made you our unanimous selection as the “Citizen of the Year” in 2008. Have fun lighting the tree.

In closing, I would like to express a special thanks to the commissions, boards and the hundreds of Mercer Island residents who give their time, energy, expertise and resources to numerous causes that improve the quality of all our lives and the lives of those who are less fortunate than us. You are our unsung heroes, making Mercer Island the special community that I am proud to represent. Now, go eat some turkey!

Mayor Jim Pearman

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