New York governor sends holiday greetings to Ukrainians

Below is the text of a holiday greeting addressed to Ukrainian Americans from the governor of New York, George E. Pataki.

Dear Friends:

It is a pleasure to send holiday greetings to the Ukrainian American community.

The holiday season provides our families with the opportunity to embrace their time-honored traditions, to strengthen the bonds that unite them and to reflect on the importance of sharing and giving in this season of renewal. This is a special time of year when families, friends and communities give thanks for their blessings and look ahead with renewed hope for peace and prosperity in the New Year. As both governor and the grandson of immigrants, I fully understand the importance for our citizens to renew their commitment to the fundamental values that give special meaning to their lives and the ideals we share as Americans. The Ukrainian American community's efforts to advance and strengthen these goals merit the highest admiration and praise.

Our religious institutions serve as beacons for the faithful and as foundations upon which families and communities grow, strengthen and prosper. They offer extraordinary leadership throughout the year, as well as during the holidays, playing a significant role in our community's celebration of renewal and rebirth. Their teachings also reach out to people of goodwill everywhere, reminding them not to forget the less fortunate and most vulnerable members of our human family as we celebrate this season of giving.

From my family to yours, please accept our best wishes for a happy holiday season.

George E. Pataki

Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, January 3, 1999, No. 1, Vol. LXVII

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