From One Fat Man to Another

Dear Santa,

I'd tell you I've been a good boy, but you and I know better (I assume you've been reading the magazine lately). Regardless, I'd like to roll the dice and send you my wish list for the coming year. After all, we fat and jolly types need to stick together.

First, and this is a big one Santa, can you PLEASE continue to improve the economy? I know things have been looking up, and there are people in our state working hard on this. (I mean, look at what's being done to grow our high-tech ecosystem!) But, only two months ago I sat with a roomful of economists and policy experts and, frankly, some of their prognostications could make the Grinch cry.

I ask not only for myself, but also for our readers. I know many have been good. Just look at our 10 Best Companies to Work For. These businesses find creative ways to make employees happy even when times are tough. They epitomize the spirit of giving.

That brings me to my second wish. Can you instill more employers with the desire to improve their workplace practices? Keeping the best and brightest in NH is more important than ever.

I know some readers will read about the best practices of these 10 companies and dismiss them with a Bah-Humbug! and declarations that such thinking is fine for those companies, but will never work in their business. Let those employers know we put these best practices out there not so businesses will replicate someone else's ideas so much as be inspired to develop unique benefits and practices that will work in their own specific environments.

Finally, Santa, I know I might be moving into Miracle on 34^th Street territory, but can you teach our political leaders to collaborate and compromise? We need leaders to engage in thoughtful conversations about how to best govern and not just plot how to beat each other in the next election. There are many things that need to be done both in the state and nationwide and they can only be accomplished by working together.

Now I will not cry if you leave the winning Megabucks ticket in my stocking. I promise to leave the good stuff out for you Christmas Eve (wink wink nudge nudge). Yep. Mint Milanos. A nice tumbler of the best scotch. All for you big guy.

Oh, and one more thing. Could you let our readers and advertisers know how grateful we are for all the support they have shown us this past year? Thanks Santa. From one fat man to another, you're looking good! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Sincerely,

Matthew J. Mowry, Editor