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Thanking those who protect and serve our communities
burns jon 2015
Rep. Jon Burns

Friends,

This year, like every year, we have much to be thankful for. The year 2020 created challenges the likes of which most of us have never seen. Personally, I have been thankful this year that it seems that many of the challenges we faced last year have begun to ease, and life, in many ways, has become more “normal.” 

I am thankful for so many of these “normal” things that we were not experiencing last year. As I think about the things I am most thankful for, my mind naturally focuses on some of the Georgians whose work made it possible for our state to be in the place it is: our medical professionals, first responders, and education professionals.

Throughout the past year and a half, our medical professionals have been on the front lines, taking care of Georgians from every walk of life. These medical professionals are still doing so today. Whether during a health crisis or a normal checkup, these medical professionals are there for us, caring for and comforting us in times of need. They deserve our gratitude and respect for the vital job they do.

Our EMTs and firefighters performed all manner of heroic deeds over the past year and a half, stepping into the gap to serve their fellow Georgians. Our law enforcement officers, meanwhile, worked overtime to handle crises of all types, placing themselves in danger to keep our families and homes safe. I hope that each of you will thank the first responders that you know and those you come across during this holiday season.

When students were sent home from schools — from kindergarteners to college students — it sent shockwaves through many families. Parents who were still trying to maintain their careers were now supervising children as they began distance learning. This year, children have returned to the classroom. 

It may be a classroom that looks slightly different, but giving our students the opportunity to be in the classroom is vitally important to their growth and education!

Having our children back in the classroom would never be possible without the hard work and dedication of our teachers, administrators, and school staff. Over the past year and a half, we have seen teachers across the state rise to the challenge presented to them — adapting to online learning and then adapting to a changed classroom environment when they returned to in-person learning. We have seen administrators and other school staff continue to adapt to better serve the children in their schools. 

We cannot say thank you enough to these hard-working Georgians who teach our children every day.

Lastly, thank you for allowing me to continue representing Georgia House District 159. It is an honor to represent each of my constituents. 

For those who have lost family members and those who are currently facing health challenges or have family members who are facing health challenges, you remain in Dayle’s and my prayers throughout the holiday season. 

It is truly a pleasure to work for you and this great state. As always, if you have any feedback, do not hesitate to call (404.656.5052), email, or engage on Facebook. If you would like to receive email updates, please visit my website to sign up for my newsletter or email me.


Jon Burns represents District 159 in the Georgia General Assembly, where he serves as the House majority leader.