By LAURA BROOKHART / Community Columnist

Thoughts for the New Year

Here are thoughts for the new year from Helena area community members.

“I pray every day that we can look for and find ways to solve problems and concerns that might come our way, quickly and efficiently, so that Helena continues to be the best place to live in Alabama. I pray for peace, prosperity, tolerance, happiness and that God holds everyone in the safety of his healing hands in 2013.” —Mayor Mark Hall.

“My wish for Helena is that the economy continues its recovery, as slow as it may be, and we as its city leaders can implement additional city services as circumstances improve.” —Cris Nelson.

“I wish that all of the divisions created during the past year, from the presidential and mayoral elections down to the selection of the high school mascot, will be healed, and that our city will unite behind its new leadership.” —Bob Van Loan.

“My wish for Helena is for a renewed sense of community spirit and cooperation that, among other things, will serve to foster an effort to create a retail presence that will make our city worthy of destination shopping.” —Jan Holliday.

“My wish is for all of us to practice random acts of kindness towards one another, all year long.” —Penny Weldon.

“A desire to work together to solve issues as opposed to being firmly entrenched on one side or the other. The divisiveness in congress and government has spilled over into our personal lives as well.” —Mary Perko.

“Make this year a year of helping your community and your country. It starts with one— YOU! “—Joy Childers

“We need prayers for all—community and nation. Let’s be done with selfishness and snobbery; let’s be done with anger and fear. Let’s trust and emulate our Creator and learn kindness and love for one another. It is my prayer that all might allow the spirit of genuine love to come into our hearts. I pray for our children and their futures and for their guidance in the way of love. I pray that we might all be part of the solutions to our problems and not the cause! Shalom & New Years Blessings!” —Peggy Scott