There are news stories in 2010 the Fitzhugh isn’t looking forward to reporting upon.

We don’t want to report on the disappearance of caribou from Maligne Canyon, or the death of more bears on highway and railways.

We don’t want to report upon stranded hikers, marooned by their own stupidity, nor do we want to report upon late night vandals wreaking havoc on Patricia street.

We don’t want to report upon drunk drivers taking the lives of others, or court dockets plugged with bar fights and DUIs.

Yet in 2009, we had to report on these subjects far too often. Avoidable and preventable accidents that often cause the reader to shake his or her head in disbelief. Unfortunately, we have little reason, little historical data to suggest these acts won’t be newsworthy in 2010. While many issues are seeing incremental change for the better, such as wildlife mortality and crime stats, other issues have remained stagnant.

We’d prefer to report upon increased civic engagement – about a community that truly cares about its future and its children’s future. With a municipal election in nine months time, there is no better time to speak about the issues that matter most to Jasperites. The community must still pass its community sustainability plan and the Jasper National Park Management plan won’t be finalized until later this year, so there is still time to comment. The JNP management plan is still accepting comments – and the opportunity to affect change in the national park.

We’d like to see the environment remain pristine, but still have tourism flourish in a year presenting so much uncertainty. No longer will the two sides be observed in isolation.

Despite the doom and gloom business of newspaper reporting, the new year brings hope. There is hope for this beautiful community and the great achievements of its residents and visitors. Athletic and artistic achievement, acts of kindness and heroism will also grace our pages. Community leaders will continue to work in the best interests of Jasperites, and the public will continue to demand more from them – as they should.

We at the Fitzhugh will strive to better reflect the community, covering the news that matters and exposing injustice. Our talented and capable team will push to provide strong news coverage, excellent photography and feature writing. We also want to hear more from the community, and we will also push our web coverage to remain competitive.

While Jan. 1 is little more than a false social construct for some, for most it is opportunity for change. A new year means new hope and aspirations – dreams that allow a people, a community, to achieve what was once thought to be impossible, and the possibility to build a legacy that will inspire others.

Let the dreams of 2010 commence.