2023 saw inflation decreasing, with still some to go — housing is the biggest burden. Inflation has declined substantially from its 9.1% peak during the covid-19 era. Perhaps this is due to corporate food companies making record profits these last few years, and they’re hoping it stays that way. It’s clear that the fossil fuel industry is still raking in massive profits. Housing speculation inflated a third of the housing bubble that led to the Great Recession. In parts of the country, it could happen again. Office space in cities may also be a problem coming.

All that considered, I am grateful I live in a country that still clings to democracy, and has law and order, for the most part. We still say the Pledge of Allegiance, and I pray for “justice for all” to be achieved. We have free speech in this and most states, and the rights to choose love, health, religion, or not. These freedoms allow me to be the crazy me I have always been. My small Wahkiakum County is special that way!

I am encouraged to see unions strengthening and improving wages and working conditions, no matter how much the rich fight it. Those tax breaks didn’t trickle down, so go for it, unions, which in the end helps even non-union members, as seen by auto workers!

I very much hope and pray Congress wakes up and realizes how much of our taxes go to pay on interest of our debt, money wasted! Both parties are equally guilty of spending and blaming the other, while continuing with an open pocketbook. Mostly, I am grateful Jesus laid down his life for me, and I have a warm home with a happy family.

POUL TOFTMARK

Rosburg