New Year, old thoughts - is it time to revamp them?

So, we enter another new year. Many of us have such hopeful thoughts for 2009, but are they truly "new ideas" for the new year? Most probably not. We all have our resolutions - to lose weight, quit smoking, save money, etc., but look at where we are not only as individuals, but as a nation. The economy is in the toilet, unemployment is up, businesses are closing due to a bad economy. Cold Stone Creamery opened up a store in Manitowoc in 2005, and they are closing as of today. Granted, Manitowoc has 2 ice cream shoppes, plus Culvers and a new A&W to open soon, it still stinks to see something close.

So, about those old thoughts - of saving money, better health, and such - it's a good thing to do, but maybe we need to improve upon these old thoughts and add to them. For example, living healthier. We all want to lose a little weight or tone up, but the money to join a gym might not be there. Suggestion - find a friend and start a workout routine, join somewhere that is not as expensive, such as the YMCA. We have a family membership and no contract. That's what tends to sink people. If you can't afford a month, then you don't have to pay. Rejoin when you can.

Our economy needs to reevaluate how we function. We've always been a contract world - maybe it's time that we learn to pay as one goes, which could allow us to save money. That's how many companies make their money. They charge you up the ying-yang with contracts and fees, and that can make a person not want to spend money. If companies would cut their cost, then the consumer could use more of their product.

I'm not an economist, nor do I play one on TV, but something has to be done to revitalize this country. I'd hate to see it go the way of the Doo-Doo Bird. If we're not careful, it might.