Next week will be our first issue of the year, when we will feature the top news stories of the year. We're scanning our back issues now so we don't forget anything important. Obviously, the pandemic was the big news, but there is a lot more to it than just news on COVID-19.
In that issue, one of the things I like to do is put together a new year's wish list of things the community might realistically need and this is where our readers might be able to help me, especially since I'm pretty much one of the newcomers to the community.
I'm looking for improvements and things our communities (yes, Nichols and Atalissa too) need that we just don't have now. There has to be things you've said through the years that you wish West Liberty had within it's boundaries. I'm not talking about moving a shopping mall into town or bringing in a General Motors plant, but there are likely many things local residents might think would be perfect for our community. So, I challenge you to dream a little.
Do a little brainstorming. Talk among yourselves, with your neighbors, with your families. Take a look around - are there things that need fixing up, attitudes that need to change, or are there things that we already have that you'd like to see more of in the future?
I just think every year a community needs to take a sharp look at itself - where has it been and where is it going? Are we headed in the right direction or do our community leaders need some fresh ideas? Don't get me wrong- West Liberty is a great community! But, can we make it better? Onward, upward!