As publisher of Insight Magazine, lifelong East Orange County resident and active member of our community, I’ve seen this area change a lot. I’ve seen tremendous growth, progress and achievement. Thinking back on all of those things reminds me of just how great our home really is. As we begin our 2010 together, I’d like to offer the following predictions for the year ahead.

1.       The Alafaya Trail extension to the Beachline will finally open. Expect to see the roadway open in conjunction with our fall election cycle. But, don’t expect to see any sort of announcements regarding the actual interchange during 2010. Towards the end of this year, we will have a new Orange County Mayor and a nearly new board of County Commissioners.  If Innovation Way is a priority for this new group, then our roadway will be a priority.

2.       Small businesses will continue to struggle in 2010. However, the Southeast Orlando area will be a bright spot in our local economy. Expect to see many more businesses open in this area as construction of the Medical City and Lake Nona area continues along. For the rest of us, now is the time to focus on working hard and making smart decisions. Remember, what doesn’t kill us only make us stronger.

3.       Stronger communities will form during 2010 because people are spending more time at home. Expect to see more people taking advantage of local parks, attending community events, buying from local vendors and generally finding more ways to spend time with their families and neighbors versus going out and spending money.

4.       There will be less money for government to spend. Orange County will cut their budget by another 10 percent this year, potentially resulting in cuts to service levels. Our State Legislators will struggle to find the necessary means to balance the budget. With tough times come tough conversations and decisions - all of which have the potential to impact us as citizens.

5.       The sun will continue to shine.  People will continue to visit and move to Central Florida through the year. The area and its residents will persevere and people will still be drawn here due to weather and ample opportunity.

The big difference this year? You. It’s up to each and every one of us to do our part to make this a great place to live, work and raise a family. Together, we can make a difference - 2010, here we come.

Article by Jennifer Thompson