WISH LIST 2009: Local leaders express hopes for coming year

MARQUETTE - 2008 was a year marked by a loose moose in Ishpeming, the conviction of a murderer in Alger County, disputes over truck routes in Marquette and a historic election.

What will 2009 bring? That remains to be seen. Meanwhile, some area community leaders expressed their wishes for 2009. Here is what they had to say.

= Marquette mayor John Kivela said he wishes for the continued sale and development of Founders Landing as well as for significant progress on the Heartwood Forest property and the truck route issue.

"I would love to see the mindset change with the local consumers," Kivela added. "Our local economy is solid, especially compared to other areas of the state and nation. More than ever we need people to shop at our local businesses, dine at our local restaurants and use our local health providers. This, more than anything, will keep us strong."

= Northern Michigan University President Les Wong would like to see an expanded air service in Marquette as well as the return of train service. He also wishes for better legislative understanding of the Upper Peninsula.

"I wish we will not lose our sense of community during the economic challenges," he said.

= Gary Muller, CEO of Marquette General Health System hopes to offer good health opportunities to make people happier. As for changes he'd like to see in 2009:

"The main thing I would change is to add more hours to the day so that I could balance my day with leisure activities," Muller said. "I would also change to alternative energy sources besides oil so that future generations have

more efficient options."

= Marquette Prosecutor Gary Walker wishes for a safe new year that's better than 2008.

"I'd like to see our economy strengthen, so that people and families here can enjoy all the community has to offer," Walker said.

= State Representative Steve Lindberg hopes that everyone's quality of life will improve in the new year. He wishes for sustainable jobs for U.P. residents with good benefits.

"I'd like to see the economic climate improve in the Upper Peninsula," Lindberg said, adding that he hopes the federal government will not forgot the U.P. when it comes to deciding on an economic stimulus.

"I would like to see the State Police Crime Lab stay here," he said, adding that the lab is important to the area.

= Marquette Police Chief Mike Angeli also wishes for a safe 2009.

"I hope we can continue the support with the services we provide," he said.