A few thoughts as New Year gets under way

When the New Year began, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated the population of the United States at 295,160,302. According to the census calculations, that was a gain of 2.8 million people -- or about 1 percent -- from New Year's Day of 2004.

Problem is, the population gains are not evenly distributed. While Las Vegas and the Sunbelt states soar in population numbers, the rural regions of America continue to decline.

It's time to reverse that trend. The Great Plains has much to offer families who wish to escape the rush of city living. We need to start speaking up for ourselves. Let's lend support to the economic development efforts in progress throughout the area, and let's offer encouragement to family and friends who want to come home to the Golden Plains.

Since the New Year started on a weekend, we need to give everyone a reprieve on their New Year's resolutions. Saturday and Sunday don't have to count.

Today -- Monday, Jan. 3, 2005 -- is the start of the work week. Why not make it the time to really get serious about our resolutions?

Besides -- as you have probably guessed by now -- some of us (including this writer) slipped up on the no snacks and no sweets resolution while watching New Year's Day football.

After basking in one of the sunniest Decembers in history, the people of the Golden Plains are bracing for a change in the weather. Forecasters are calling for snow and ice in the next few days, creating the strong possibility of hazardous driving conditions.

Usually, we're ready, since snow and ice are not that unusual in this area. But this winter, because of all the nice weather, we could be caught a little off guard.

Remember how quickly conditions can change. Braking too quickly can send you into a spin ... and sometimes into a ditch.

Make emergency preparations. And don't be in a rush. Your caution and consideration can prevent needless accidents.