Missourian reporters asked folks around Columbia what changes they would like to see in 2009. Here are their responses:
“I look forward to the stock market going up.”
— Alan Bohr, 64
“I want to see the Police Department change. Just 'cause we’re homeless doesn’t mean we’re bad people. We’re homeless people, not mean people. We just want to be loved.”
— George Nickles, 50
“I hope the new year brings more money and places for people to work.”
— Jackie Harris
“Better resources for autism, that's what I hope this year brings.”
— Trevor Howard
"Change in general. I'm just anxious to see what happens with our new president, whether it be good or bad."
— Lindsey Arrington
"I'm hoping for a better economy. I just hope that it turns around with the new president. Everyone has been affected by it."
— Brenda Woods
“Where I work at, I’ve been there 21 years. Two years ago we had 360 people; we’re down to 158. Tell you the truth, this year we need to keep all of our jobs in the United States instead of sending them overseas.”
— Tom Masters, 59
“We all worry about the economy and our own finances. Hopefully, we will all pay more attention, we all need to do our part this year. “
— Anna Cross of Yates, 38
“Well, I’m hoping that the new presidency will bring change in the economy, because there are so many people suffering. In my own life, well, I hope that we all stay healthy, the whole family.”
— Georgia Morehouse, 75
"I want to see marijuana legalized this year because I don't really think it's a 'drug' drug."
— Ashley Winemiller
"I'm looking forward to a different president. We need something new."
— Bill Crocker
“I went home for Christmas and my family was talking about Obama's presidency and how it really doesn't matter what president we have. I think people should give hope a shot and be optimistic for a change."
— Tony Layson
“I’d like to see more recycling and recycling laws. I know too many people who don’t recycle. There should also be more student involvement and activities in Columbia for students.”
— Konstantin Makarov, 16
“I’m thrilled Obama is the next president. It gives us hope for the future. Again, I’m going to lose weight.
— Roy Robinson, 71
“One by one I’d like to see the leaders and nations regain their sanity and arrive at the conclusion that they’re better off helping people rather than killing people. Those are the thoughts that fill my prayers.”
— John Rice of Jackson, 59
“I’d love to see people respect people everywhere. I know it’s cliché, but it’s better than just saying world peace.”
— Lynn Jaxon
“I’d like to see young people have more respect for each other. Men used to open doors for women.”
— Elaine Bruno
"In 2009 I'd like to see the power of the executive branch more in balance with legislative and judicial branches. And I want to lose weight."
— Martin Pope, 39
“I hope things will change when Obama comes in. I'm kind of in the middle between middle class and poverty. I have a terminally ill child, so it's hard for me to work and take care for him.
— Bea Wall
“I would like to see gay marriage legalized. It just seems unjust in a just country. I want this for myself and everyone in general. I also am hoping to get a teaching job, so I can make money.”
— Lisa Miller of Kirksville, 25
“I think we (the United States) could spend money on alternative energy development and alternative transportation. We can solve many of the world's problems with bicycles."
— Kevin Blake of Wisconsin, 38