As we begin this new year of 2023, we all have hopes and dreams for ourselves, our families, friends and our country. We are at a serious crossroads in this day and age with our future hanging in the balance. So, please allow me the privilege to just ramble on about a number of things that I hope for in this new year for not just myself but everyone.

First of all, I hope and pray for an end to this ludicrous war between Russia and Ukraine that is affecting the entire world. The loss of lives on both sides is not the way to solve issues and the first concession has to be made by one man, Putin.

I hope and pray that other fighting in various parts of the world come to an end before this entire world becomes engulfed in a world war, something no one wants to have.

On our own front I would love to see the impossible happen, that being both sides of the aisle agreeing on programs and moves that will benefit ALL the people, not just the politicians. It is time they did the jobs they were elected to do to make this country great again.

I would love to see 2023 be a year when a person doesn’t have to have a dozen different vaccines to stay healthy. There is always going to be the flu, there is always going to be sneezes and coughs, that is part of living. But let’s be honest, in the past couple of years our government has gone way overboard when it comes to the vaccines.

I would like to see this new year be a year when politicians on both sides can come together on both a national and local level regarding infrastructure. Way too many cities and towns have old, aging, decrepit roadways, bridges, tunnels, water lines, etc, that are way overdue to be replaced and/or repaired. We are living very dangerously with these necessities being overlooked and forgotten.

In 2023, and again this falls on the politicians and government, I want to see our veteran’s, seniors and people of need being taken care of first and foremost before illegals regardless of where they are from.

There is more, but I think you get my drift here. There is a lot that can bring this country back to the power it once was. However, until the politicos actually decide to work for the people rather than themselves, it is going to be a tough road. So, speak out, make your voice heard loud and clear.

On a personal note, I have been blessed with good health, everything functioning well and making each day a true gift that I cherish. My wish for 2023 and beyond is that this will continue so I can keep doing what I love to do in my work, and most importantly to continue to have the love and caring of a fantastic woman in Carole, a great family and some very special friends and brothers (you know who you are). It’s been a roller coaster ride for eight plus decades with a failures and successes, bumps and bruises, but I would trade any of it.

To all of you I truly wish you the very best in 2023. May you have love, good health, a sense of purpose and all good things coming your way in this new year. Thank you for your support over the years as it means everything to me.

Art Koch, National Features & DVD Editor, NightMoves Magazine and AAN