Contributed

State Sen. Shane Massey

There's no doubt Christmas is around the corner.

Temperatures have dropped, and the parades have begun. Even though our economy has been struggling, area stores and malls have seen an impressive number of Christmas shoppers.
As we end another year with the Christmas rush, I want to stop and reflect with you for a moment.
For most of us, 2008 was another busy year.

The economy took a hit on the federal level, and that has impacted us on the state and local levels, as well. We'll be working in State Government next year to get through this difficult budget situation.
Also this year, new debates arose around taxes, illegal immigration, DUI laws, and a host of other issues that may have brought some discussion to your dinner table.

And all of us know 2008 brought another election cycle. If you're like me, you're just glad it's finally over! But I am thankful and humbled that you decided to give me another term in the South Carolina Senate. I look forward to returning to Columbia in January to represent your interests as best I can.
However, I can tell you my critics in Columbia aren't as thrilled.

As a matter of fact, they're downright mad I'm coming back.

Shaking up the status quo has that effect.

Some of the big spenders in Columbia don't have the same values that you and I do. That's part of the reason State Government is in the economic mess it's in right now.
When the Legislature resumes its work in January, there will be plenty of tough battles in the trenches on many issues, but I'm ready to fight for our values and a common-sense approach to running government. I'll have more to say on that after the New Year begins.

One other significant milestone occurred this year for my wife, Blair, and me: we became the proud parents of a baby girl. We look forward to raising Carter in a great area surrounded by people we know, love, and respect. And, if you'll excuse a proud Dad's musing, I can tell you she's the cutest and best baby I've ever seen!

On a final note, we all know this time of year is known for giving.

However, I pray that we all remember the gift given to all of us in the form of baby Jesus. He is why we celebrate this time of year.
In the coming months, I'll do my best to keep you informed of what's going on in Columbia. But I want to hear your concerns and ideas, too. If you have an opinion on an issue, you can contact me by telephone (803-480-0419), email (shanemassey@scsenate.org), or regular mail (P.O. Box 551, Edgefield, SC 29824). Or just pull me aside when you see me.

Your comments, input, and insight have served me well in the South Carolina Senate. I look forward to your input as we work together to move South Carolina forward.

From our family to yours, Blair, Carter, and I wish you the happiest of holiday seasons, and we pray for a blessed and prosperous New Year for us all.