Ocala-the Center of the State

Okay, okay...so this one is much closer to the truth.

TALLAHASSEE - As Florida lawmakers head toward one of their most difficult sessions in recent history, a likable, low-key lawmaker from Ocala has been catapulted from a largely ceremonial role into the high-pressure job as leader of the 120-member Florida House.

Although his assignment may only be temporary, lawmakers, lobbyists and friends say Larry Cretul - a 61-year-old real estate broker who was first elected to the Legislature in 2002 - has the personality and experience to handle the task as the acting House speaker as lawmakers prepare for their annual session that begins March 3.

I've had the pleasure of meeting and having some dealing with Larry Cretul. He's a good guy and an honest man. The Florida Legislature is in good hands.

But Cretul also acknowledged the major challenges facing lawmakers in the next few months, including a record budget deficit that they will have to resolve.

"In the months ahead, Florida's elected leaders have a lot of big decisions to make," Cretul said. "The challenge will be to meet the state's basic obligations without unduly burdening the people, slowing our economic recovery or making short-sighted - but hard to reverse - changes to the role and scope of government."

Cretul said he was "committed to presiding over a legislative process that is orderly, fair and deliberative."

I think we can depend on him to do the best that can be done in this trying time. All the best, Mr. Speaker!