I have lived in Utah more than 19 years. Shortly after moving here, I attended my first legislative session and haven't missed one since. I have never attended a legislative session without my friend Eddie Mayne. I met Ed before he was a state senator. He was there every year representing the AFL-CIO.

You would not think that conservative Republican Gayle Ruzicka would have much in common with not-so-conservative Democrat Ed Mayne, but we did. First, was our friendship. Who couldn't be friends with Ed Mayne? Second, we had many issues that we agreed on and sometimes worked together to make needed changes. One such issue was to rescind Utah's call for a Constitutional convention. Ed would always come to me and say, "I have my D's, Gayle. You need to get the R's." It took years to get enough R's. Finally we did, and thanks to Eddie Mayne, the Legislature rescinded the call.

There were other issues we agreed on and many we didn't. But one thing we always agreed on was our friendship and how easy it was to work together and, when necessary, we just agreed to disagree. I could always count on Eddie to treat me with respect and listen to me whether he agreed or not. He always gave me good advice and helped me in any way he could.

I cannot imagine what the legislative session will be like without Eddie next year. No more of his jokes, laughter, bear hugs, advice, smiling face, wisdom and Disney movies. Eddie could bring a whole room to laughter, including a sometimes-stuffy Senate chambers.

Over the years, many Republicans have come to me and asked me to get involved with them to try to replace Ed Mayne. My answer has always been the same, "Why would I want to do that? I love Eddie Mayne."

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Gayle Ruzicka is president of the Utah Eagle Forum.