Westchester Hoping for 2012 Success and Happiness

Even though 2011 was a bumpy ride for many Americans because of the down economy and high unemployment rate, several Westchester residents are looking forward to 2012 with a renewed outlook on life. However, it is clear that they would like to see improvements made not only personally, but with the rest of the country as well.

Betty Weaver of West Harrison is hoping that politicians clean up their act in Washington and come together to help the country.

“I want the economy to recover,” she said while shopping with her friend. “I wish they would cooperate more for the good of the country and not for the individual parties.”

Weaver was quick to point out why they were elected to serve in the first place and stated that if they do not cure America’s problems, they would have another issue on their hands.  

“They have to come together,” said Weaver. “That’s what we voted them in for. The people are going to revolt against it and I hope they do [if things don’t change].

Personally, Weaver was hoping to remain healthy through 2012 and beyond.

“I just want to stay healthy,” she stated. “So far, so good.”

Joe Hanner is looking for the unemployment rate to shrink after the economy propels forward with the new year.

“I’d like to see the economy bounce back and just trying to stabilize jobs,” said the White Plains resident. “It’s all about that. I’m retired now, but still even on a fixed income, you’ve gotta watch.” Just like Weaver, Hanner was looking forward to a healthy 2012. “Personally, just my health,” he stated. “You can’t buy your health.”

Some Westchester residents looked towards sports with the Super Bowl on the horizon.

“A better life,” said Jaquan Quashie of White Plains. “I hope my Broncos do good and the Celtics too.” His Broncos have fate in their hands because with a win on Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs, they will head to the playoffs as the AFC West champions. As for basketball, even though Quashie lives less than an hour away from Madison Square Garden, he grew up a Celtics fan because he wanted to support the same team that his father loved.

His friend, Steffen Henderson, is hoping to climb the ladder of success in 2012.

“I’m looking forward to a better life,” said the Yonkers native. “I hope that I can accomplish getting a degree in school. Get a better job – paid more. That’s about it.”

He also would not mind seeing his favorite team, the Los Angeles Lakers, play against the Boston Celtics in a rematch of the 2010 NBA Finals. He reminded his friend, with a laugh, who won.

“It happened and we won,” said the lifelong NBA fan.

Joe Curcuruto was getting ready to go for a jog to end the year on the right note. The Rockland County resident is ready for the clock to strike 12 and turn to a new year.

“I’m looking forward to health and happiness,” said the Congers native.

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