Looking into the future ...

Lafayette City-Parish President Joey Durel has high hopes for the coming year.

"As we begin a new year, my resolution is to cut fat from my diet. I am also committed to cutting fat from government and to spend our money wisely so that we continue to keep Lafayette Parish on so many 'good' lists," Durel said. "We are very fortunate to live in such a unique community that is attractive to others outside of our area.

"Our goal continues to be simple … just make Lafayette Parish the best place to live and raise a family. If we accomplish that, we will attract businesses that will employ our citizens, giving opportunity to all. I believe we will see positive things happen for Lafayette and all of Acadiana in 2010.

"My hope is that Cap and Trade fails and is put to rest (in peace), and that our oil and gas industry is able to start working again with the confidence that the government is not going to pull the rug out from under them. We should see an increase in residential building as confidence grows and banking returns to normal.

"And, we will see Lafayette prove, over and over again, why we are The Crown Jewel of Louisiana."

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