Sometimes you have to just stop writing mental notes to yourself and sit down and let folks know what is on your mind. Please allow me to share 10 random wishes that I'd like to see change (or at least considered) by the end of 2005.

-All old political signs along the roadways and right-of-ways should be removed.

-A safe return home from this day forward for all military personnel serving our beloved country overseas, including my brother-in-law.

-Gas stations that require pre-pay before pumping after dark should change their policy; install security cameras at the pumps; light the place up like a car dealership; close after dark; or simply install "stamp machine-type" devices to allow money to be deposited at the pump (along with the credit card authorization) for a specific amount of gas to be purchased.

-No longer describe candidates or elected officials as being of a particular race, but rather simply as a candidate for the office.

-Everyone should endeavor to visit a public library once a week; ride public transportation once a month; and read a newspaper once a day....and truly enjoy what you are doing at least one hour a day.

-Downtown Atlanta parking lots should offer plenty of $1 an hour lots, even during special events, that would encourage folks to come downtown more during the day, attend evening and weekend events, and spur the economy of the central city.

-Someone should calculate how much Sandy Springs would owe Fulton County for current facilities or have to pay Fulton County to provide the services.

-The public/private partnership endeavor for a toll road on Georgia 316 should take a look at the economic impact of toll roads in other parts of the country from suburban areas to smaller cities that also have a university population. An example would be the toll road from Dallas, Texas to north of the city (Denton area).

-"Fear Factor" gets away from terrible things to eat and onto more fearful endeavors. Just because a person won't eat something, doesn't mean they are "fearful" - they are just not crazy.

-"The Amazing Race" should be shown in all seminars for the do's and don'ts of relationships and leadership skills.

As we close this year, let the folks around you know how much you appreciate them. Do it today....tomorrow is not promised to anyone. Here's hoping for a wonderful, healthy and safe 2005 for each of you!