We have seen thousands of our neighbors lose their homes, and watched as people who have worked hard all of their lives lost their jobs and their nest eggs.

We have seen business that were thriving just a few short years ago close, never to reopen.

Our county and city governments have had to make cuts that not only cost people livelihoods, but diminished services that we all have enjoyed.

Few economists are predicting that 2011 is going to be much better.

We are not going to think that way, though, for we have also seen a positive spirit from folks who live in our county.

We have seen families reach into their pantries and dig deep into their pocketbooks to give so that their neighbors would have food and be able to keep the power on another day.

We have watched good folks volunteer their time through their churches or civic groups to go that extra mile.

We are starting to see some business revival out there; we know that there are groups that are right now planning for our future growth.

Newton County has been down before and it has sprung back with a renewed vitality. There’s a reason why not that long ago Newton was one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation.

We see 2011 as the beginning of a step-by-step recovery.

The reason we feel that way is because we believe in the people of Newton County, who may find themselves down from time to time, but who never quit.

On behalf of our staff here at The Covington News we wish you the best of the New Year and we pray that the Good Lord’s blessings flow down on each of you.

Happy New Year!