Merry Christmas… To most of us in the 4th District it is a greeting of hope, a time of celebration, but when it comes to Washington DC there is always controversy.

Recently Congress was reminded that they cannot send taxpayer paid mail to their constituents if it has a Christmas greeting. You know — the usual argument about separation of church and state. My question is this? With a 15 trillion dollar debt why is any taxpayer money being spent on Congressional self-promotional mail outs? I know the savings will be small but how about a little leadership by example and not spend taxpayer money just because you can. I learned early on as a business owner that when revenues are down you cut costs, and you do not raise prices on your customers. Too many in government believe taking the opposite approach of higher spending and of higher taxes is the formula for recovery. Historically, such an approach has failed every time it has been attempted, and it is failing now.

Anyway, that is enough politics. Let’s get back to Merry Christmas and the hope that it brings to all who celebrate the birth of Jesus. This Christmas I think most of us will focus on the blessings we have such as family, friends and a nation like no other. These are the real gifts and we are truly grateful for these blessings.

I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. God bless each of you and God bless the United States of America.