At this special time of year, I wish to extend the residents of Utah a Happy Thanksgiving.

As we reflect upon our many successes over the past several months, we have much to be thankful for as a state. With unprecedented economic growth, we have been able to provide record amounts of funding for education, implement meaningful tax reform and enhance our quality of life through improving transportation and human services programs. These important successes point to our continued vigilance in dealing with pressing issues of growth, health care, energy, education and transportation.

We have reached a historical low in unemployment and a significant rise in population which means we must address these needs now in order to prosper in the many years ahead. During this upcoming holiday season, I challenge each of you to find a way to meaningfully serve your community by bringing comfort and hope to those most in need. Also, please take a moment to remember the men and women of our armed forces who are away from loved ones defending our nation's freedom. May we remember the daily sacrifice they give for each of us.

It is an honor to serve the people of the greatest state in America. Mary Kaye and I would like to wish all of our fellow Utahns a very happy Thanksgiving.

Jon M. Huntsman Jr. is governor of Utah.

This story appeared in The Daily Herald on page A8.