Ringing in 2009 with hopes and wishes

Finally -- a new year. With it brings cautious hope for some overwhelming changes -- for peace, for a stable economy, for health and happiness. Those bold wishes echoed through our local leaders' wishes today in the Bradenton Herald.

And why not be optimistic? True, every indicator points to another tough year. But if we don't have hope, we don't have much else. Here was my New Year's wish to our staff:

"My wish is that 2009 brings the turnaround we have all worked so hard for, and that we have fun and many successes in getting there. This past year has been an amazing challenge in so many ways -- and we're still there for each other, through thick and thin. You've accomplished great things -- in print, online and in our community. Here's a toast to each of you, and to the Fourth Estate. The world needs us, more than ever."

Here's hoping we all share a good year.

A toast to 2009. Happy New Year!

-- Joan