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New Year’s Day 2017

Jan. 1st may be the most optimistic day of the year.

As each new year begins, there is hope that comes from a deep-down feeling that the world has been given a clean slate. Yes, some of the same old problems remain, but there is a belief that new solutions will be found, new coalitions will be forged and that the indomitable human spirit will triumph.

Of course, all of that will go away on Jan. 2nd.

But let’s pretend there is, indeed, a clean slate for 2017. What should be written on that slate for an agenda for the county, state, country and world?

All those entities share one large goal — the creation and stabilization of a healthy economy.

On a county and state level, steps need to be taken to keep the resurgence in the visitor industry going and expand it to other sectors. County government has become markedly more proactive in helping businesses thrive and survive.

State government, too, needs to demonstrate its willingness to promote business. The most obvious way to show that willingness is to be very careful about imposing more — or increasing — taxes and fees.

Washington, D.C., should set an example for the world by getting its financial house in order. The best thing we can do for the struggling economies of Europe is to show them we are tackling our problems — not “kicking the can down the road.”

The drop in oil prices has given our economy a boost we shouldn’t waste — and we shouldn’t use lower petroleum prices as an excuse to slow down the conversion to sustainable and renewable fuels.

Our federal government also needs to show its commitment to the fight against terrorism. We cannot lead from behind. We must be out front, leading by example, building a global coalition dedicated to defeating those who would slaughter and enslave the innocent.

There are big challenges — and big opportunities — in 2017. It’s time we, the people, demand our governments face the challenges and capture the opportunities.

* Editorials reflect the opinion of the publisher.

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