| During our down time this past winter break I got the opportunity to watch lots of political and economic pundits explain to the American people why they think the recession is over. I believe the worst of it is behind us, however I see continued rough patches going forward.
Florida still has problems, the population has declined, property values have not increased, our unemployment rate is higher than the national average. We as public sector employees are under assualt from politicians that have a viseral dislike of civil servants.
In this climate of uncertainty, I think it is smart to spend less and save more. The large majority of our members will receive a tax refund this year. If you can't save all of it plaese save something.
Regards,
Fernando Villarruel
President, SMEA local 48 | 
