A lot of attention is being paid this holiday season to news reports that unemployment is up, economic growth is down and the country has entered into a recession. Certain media commentators present the situation as being “dire” and warn of a “looming economic calamity.”

Well, all is not bad. On a more positive note it should be said our country has weathered financial downturns and “dire” economic times before, and I believe we will again. This period of fiscal uncertainty will pass and the U.S. will recover. We should not be fearful. We will all be better served by toughening things out. In time, the economy will rebound, new jobs will be created, industry will adjust to more profitable business models and I believe our great nation will emerge stronger than ever. It is inevitable that things like the current economic situation will happen from time to time. And tough times make us stronger.

Amidst the hand-wringing of the Chicken Little sky-is-falling crowd, there are many bright spots, such as the fact that the price of gas at the pump is lower than it has been in years. That is a good thing. And consider the fact that the big local news story this week concerned the possibility of a large unnamed industry coming to Bradley County which, according to published reports, would bring 500 to 600 new jobs into our area. And don’t forget the fact that Volkswagen is building a new manufacturing plant just down the road that will further impact our community in a positive way with increased career opportunities, not to mention the attendant support businesses that will spring up around the new plant. So, even though some industries are restructuring and some jobs have been lost, it looks like help is on the way and we will continue to have growth in our particular region.

During this holiday season ~ and throughout the year ~ let’s not be fearful of the future. Let’s be positive and count our blessings. Here at the BCSO we have operated on a bare-bones budget for years. And even so, we have been extremely effective in doing our job. At this point, the BCSO will be able to maintain the current level services within our existing budget. As is normal, we may have to shift some money from one area to another, but no new money in our overall budget will be needed. Through effective management strategy and techniques, we anticipate returning some money to the county’s General Fund at the end of the budget year. This, too, is good news.

In a county as richly blessed as ours, it is easy to become complacent and take our many comforts for granted. But at heart, I believe Americans are tough, resourceful and pragmatic (particularly here in Bradley County). All is not bad. There are many positive things happening in our community.

I would also like to inform you that the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office is stepping up patrols in both marked and unmarked vehicles. And, in keeping with our policy of partnering with the community, we ask for your help in identifying any suspicious activity that you see occurring on your street or in your neighborhood. If you have information regarding illegal activity, you can contact me at 4237287300, or our Criminal Investigations Division at 4237287306. I also encourage everyone to take basic precautions such as locking vehicles and doors and making it more difficult for criminals to gain access.

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas.