Today’s feature of 4th Floor Files features Fred Karlinsky of Colodny, Fass, Talenfeld, Karlinsky, Abate & Webb, P.A. Here’s the file on Fred.
Significant other? Children? Grand kids?
I am married to Autumn, and we have two children – Allie, 9, and Spencer, 6.
In 25 words or less, explain what you do.
I am an insurance regulatory attorney practicing around the country and in other parts of the world, and a lobbyist for various insurance – and insurance-related entities, as well as groups like the Broward County School Board and the Florida Dental Hygiene Association.
Without using the words Democrat, Independent or Republican, conservative or liberal, describe your political persuasion.
Very responsible and concerned about fiscal issues, less involved in social issues.
If you have one, what is your motto?
“If you fail to prepare, prepare to fail,” “The harder I work, the luckier I get,” and “Put the lotion in the basket.”
During your career, have you had a favorite pro bono client?
Over the years, I have represented a number of pro bono clients. It gives me satisfaction to help those in need.
Three favorite charities.
Florida’s Children First, Kids In Distress and the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy
Any last-day-of-Session traditions?
None really. It’s just another day at the office!
What are you most looking forward to during the 2013 Legislative Session.
Advancing the ball, protecting the interests of my clients and the Miss Rotunda contest.
If you could have another lobbyist’s client list, it would be…
I already have the greatest clients in the world.
Professional accomplishment of which you are most proud?
Passing the Florida Bar exam without studying.
Lobbyists are often accused of wearing Gucci loafers; do you own a pair of Gucci loafers? If not, why not?
If the Gucci loafers are made in crocodile or alligator, I’m sure I own them.
Who is your favorite Florida Capitol Press Corp reporter and why?
I love them all.
Other than SaintPetersBlog.com, your reading list includes…
Financial Times, The Wall Street Journal, Maxim
What swear word do you use most often?
I can’t repeat it here, but let’s just say I can use it as an adjective, verb and noun in one sentence.
What is your most treasured possession?
I do not really treasure any possessions, because they are fleeting.
The best hotel in Florida is…
The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort
You’ve just learned that you will be hosting a morning talk show about Florida politics. Who are the first four guests you’d invite to appear?
Governor Rick Scott, CFO Jeff Atwater, Attorney General Pam Bondi, Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam, Speaker Will Weatherford, Senate President Don Gaetz
Favorite movie.
Old School, Apocalypse Now, The Silence of the Lambs, It’s a Wonderful Life. No chick flicks!
Before the ‘gift ban’, what was your favorite restaurant in Tallahassee? What is your favorite today?
Before the gift ban, I’d say Silver Slipper because it was fun to go with Hawk and the crew. Also, anywhere Jim King was. Today, I would choose Cypress or Avenue.
When you pig out, what do you eat?
I don’t necessarily “pig out,” but I do eat way too much chocolate.
If you could have dinner with a historical figure no longer living, who would it be?
Pope John Paul II.
