One need only look at the weekly arrest log and factor in the combination of the dismal economy with warmer weather – and you can see the trend of mildly violent and drug-related crimes increase as the weeks go by. Aside from the typical flurry of drunk and disorderly and motor vehicle-related incidents, our police department keeps a good lid on criminal activity in the 'Ville.

That's because they know how to do more with less – just like other departments have for a long time. It's no secret that our police, fire and schools have been churning out high quality services with relatively small budgets, when compared to other surrounding communities.

Maybe we as a community have learned from years gone by – to depend less and less on state aid, to create economies of scale and to come together, not just to celebrate our history with parades and fireworks, but to celebrate our future. This coming fiscal year will be difficult for many people and local businesses, but, we can pull together and survive – because that's how we do it in the 'Ville.