Changes

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There is no question that we have experienced dramatic changes in the past few months, the biggest change being the election of a new president. Unfortunately, that has not stopped the reports of a downturn in the economy. Nearly every day we hear about companies cutting back and more people becoming unemployed. Those of us that have a job are certainly fortunate and are happy to continue working, even if we are working longer than we had initially planned.

On the flip side, I am struck with how constant and consistent some things are. For example, horses are still being sold, although at a lower price. Research is being planned. Projects are ongoing. Classes are still being offered at universities, and the attendance at most universities is still on the rise. Furthermore, horse events are ongoing, and new ones are being planned for the spring, summer, and fall. That is obviously a good sign. Although many veterinarians are somewhat concerned about the impact of the economy on their veterinary business in 2009, most of them have a very positive outlook.

Sometimes it is difficult to understand how the United States arrived at this point. We would all like to wake up some morning and experience a bright new beginning. In some ways it seems like there is simply a major loss of confidence. Optimist that I am, I predict that those of us involved in animal agriculture will know how to tighten our belts, sharpen our pencils, and press onward.

Dr. Ed Squires

Editor, JEVS