January '06 Casey's Corner Column

There's something cleansing about starting a new year. Be it psychological, chronological or even mystical, we tend to try to shed the bad memories of the year that was and look forward to future delights of the year that's yet to be. It's traditional, but is it rational? And for that matter is it even a good thing for the world in general?

Take for example, the homeless and/or less fortunate. We in the media promote coat drives, furniture giveaways, donation kettles and toy drives to an almost nauseating degree in November and December, then January arrives and the focus shifts to other various causes. That's our job. People would watch if we didn't change subjects, but does the sudden lack of attention on the people in need mitigate the good we hopefully have done before the Jolly Old Elf and Father Time are put back in mothballs for the year? I wonder sometimes, I really do. I hope not, but I do believe in the old saying "out of sight, out of mind."

We all try to suppress the things that make us uncomfortable, but we sometimes sacrifice learning valuable lessons when we do so. Moving on from one's problems is a good thing, simply moving away from them is usually bad, especially when we talk about society's problems. My New Year's resolution, as a journalist, is to provide the public with as much information as possible on social issues, so Southern Nevadans can make informed decisions on issues that affect all of us.

Happy 2006 everyone! Keep in mind it's an even numbered year and that means it's a political one too. There will be politicians and personalities who try to convince you to support their side, but don't do it unless you know it's the right thing to do. Please get involved, be informed and be guided by your conscience, not the usual "snake oil salesmen" who come pandering for your vote, then forget you ever existed. Control your government officials, don't let them control you! After all, that's the American Way!!