'Tis The SeasonBy Representative Jim Frishe, District 54The holiday season is upon us. I notice traffic has gotten a bit heavier, lines have gotten a bit longer and the weather can't make up its mind- will it be cold or hot today? I must admit that I would get a bit annoyed when I used to sit in traffic or have to wait more than two minutes in line at the mall. But now, with Florida facing some of the hardest economic times in decades, I will say I don't mind these things as much. More traffic means our friends from up north are once again coming to visit us and are staying at our local hotels and eating at our finest restaurants. Longer lines at the department store must mean that people have a bit more money in their pocket to spend this season. And 65 degrees one day and 85 degrees the next means we get to enjoy the best of both worlds - a nice warm day sitting on the beach followed by a day bundled up in a sweater enjoying a cup of hot chocolate. Life here in Florida is wonderful! My colleagues and I have been working hard in Tallahassee to continue to make Florida the premier place to live, work and visit. Throughout the year, we are reviewing and debating various pieces of legislation. As I mull over the pros and cons of each of my votes, I never cease to forget about the good people that live in my district who have graciously given me the opportunity to represent them. Sometimes this is an easy job and the answers are clear. But often times the answer is harder to discern and difficult decisions have to be made. In essence, it is teamwork that makes this process a success. This team not only includes my fellow legislators in Tallahassee, but also my constituents. These decisions would be even more difficult to make without their valuable input. Working together, caring about each other and coming together for the betterment of mankind; these are things we can share not just at Christmas time, but year round. With that in mind, I enter this holiday season with a newfound spirit and enthusiasm for public service. I am very thankful and grateful to be able to represent District 54 in Tallahassee. I, my family and my staff wish you and your families a joyful and fun filled holiday season and a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.
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