First of all, I want to wish all the other bloggers and all our faithful readers a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. I've enjoyed writing my blog and enjoyed reading my compatriots blogs. It's always good to read the opinions of others and read the comments even though they are often at odds with the author.

On to the ubiquitous new years resolutions and wishes that we all make and oftentimes break within the month of January. Here are some resolutions and wishes that I truly hope are kept.

May the new businesses that are just started or will be opening soon, be as successful as their owners plan them to be.

May the city keep moving forward in its efforts to create a new tax base.

May the city succeed with all the new housing that it's building, even though I have doubts about adequate parking for residents and guests, plus the businesses that are part of the housing developments.

May any new cultural projects that come to this "blue collar town of 'stallis" be patronized by all us "lower class" residents.

May whoever becomes the new mayor be progressive in his/her views, work hard to keep the taxes low and not cut too many of our services.

May the city workers who do the snow plowing keep up their good work. We usually have the best plowed streets of all the surrounding cities. Even though I oftimes curse you when you plow my driveway shut, I do appreciate the clean streets, bus stops and crosswalks.

May West Allis continue to be a relatively decent place to live, despite any and all of its shortcomings. No city is immune to having its "off" days, citizens, and less than desirable activities.

And, lastly, is there any way that Western Days can be brought back? I sure do miss that parade and all the unique activities at the State Fair grounds.