Here’s hoping for an even better year

It wasn’t the perfect year, but 2022 was a pretty good one at that. We’re hoping 2023 is even better.

In this week’s edition, you’ll see a review of the stories we told you about in 2022. In as much as we’d rather not remind you of all the news you read about earlier this past year, it sure seems like there was plenty to feel good about on a local level in 2022. The community continued to grow and prosper. Challenges were identified and taken on. And through it all, New Prague is still a place plenty of people want to call home.

Looking back, there was plenty to feel good about in 2022. We made it through the pandemic. Sure, some businesses were hurt, but overall, we’d argue things are better than had no restrictions been put in place. Our community, for the most part, endured masking and other limitations which tested their resilience and will create better people down the road. Our children learned at a distance and, at times, struggled with the impact of not being together as a group. We hope they will long benefit from the challenges they have endured the past year. Our leaders did what they thought was right based on the available information.

Your city and the counties on both sides of Main Street are working to efficiently provide the best services possible. They have heard the call to do more with less and are working to provide people the best possible level of service within their means.

There is plenty going on to feel good about. New Prague is continuing to move forward. This community, as it has for years, faithfully and graciously supports its veterans. Its faith communities reaching out to serve those in need. There are groups of people who went out of their way this holidays season to help those less fortunate.

A group is working to raise funds to build a performance facility on city-owned land. Volunteers are taking on the challenging task of trying to raise money at a time when inflation is high and some are concerned about the future. The concert series last summer provided there is an appreciation for gifted people sharing their talents. These volunteers raising funds are to be commended for trying to make New Prague an even better place to live, raise a family and work.

Are there challenges to be addressed? You bet. The schools are likely facing budget reductions as the district awaits funding decisions from the legislature. There are seemingly fewer children expected in New Prague schools and district leaders are working to provide the best education possible. The city and county are also working to provide the best service possible with the money they receive.

Your friends and neighbors will likely face some sort of challenge in the coming year. Fortunately, there will be people to help them, whether it be with material goods or just an understanding smile. That’s what happens in smaller communities.

We hope everyone has a great year to come. We know you’ll be there for each other. And we know, despite the challenges ahead, the community will continue to move forward.

Have a great New Year’s celebration, folks. Be safe. Have fun.