2013: New year wishes begin with hope

Be gone, ye demons of the old year — whether fiscal cliff, bankrupt Detroit or the prospects for ongoing labor unrest in Lansing. Take a page instead from our commentators below, who face the new year with unstinting courage and optimism. To paraphrase the Beatles, all you need is hope.

Michael H. Hodges / The Detroit News

"First and foremost my wish is for good health of my family and friends. For our region, my wish is that 2013 bring an economic resurgence to the region and state. When the economy hums, many other problems fall away. On my professional wish list is a safe and happy new year for all residents and visitors to our great county."

Oakland County Sheriff Michael J. Bouchard President emeritus, Major County Sheriffs of America

"More developers and conventions, the Super Bowl back to Detroit and a happy, prosperous and peaceful New Year's to the residents!

Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin

"To work very hard to restore economic prosperity to this country ... by showing younger members of all parties, in fact all Americans ... we need to work together to make our government work. You can disagree respectfully, but we need to remind each other how much more we have in common than we disagree with."

U.S. Rep. John Dingell, D-Dearborn

"Great progress towards the completion of the Riverwalk, the commencement of construction on the M1 project and a growing awareness that 'Opportunity is made in Detroit!'"

Matt Cullen President and CEO, Rock Ventures

"I hope 2013 brings us a safer Michigan, a state with more jobs, more paychecks and a brighter future for young and old."

Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette

"My prayer is that the city and suburbs — as well as the state — can build a spirit of cooperation, strategic alliances and mutually beneficial partnerships, having learned that construction doesn't occur by destruction and that we can't build each other up by tearing each other down. For Detroit, my prayer is that leadership — from the corporate suites, churches and classrooms to all decision-making city workers, community advocates and neighborhood voices — develop a selfless servant's heart, unchained by friends and favoritism, where the focus is on improving the condition of the least of these."

The Rev. Solomon Kinloch Jr. Senior pastor, Triumph Church (Detroit, Southfield, Northville and Canton Township)

"My wish is for Michigan kids — the same that I have for my own kids — to enjoy a safe, happy and healthy 2013. Toward that end, it's time for those of us that work in Michigan's Capitol to put politics aside to focus on doing what's best for our kids by reinvesting in their education, their safety and their well-being so that they can grow and learn in world-class schools that provide them with the opportunities they need to make our state great once again."

State Senate Minority Leader Gretchen Whitmer, D-East Lansing

"My wish for 2013 is for all of us to stay connected personally and take the time for eye contact, smiles and kindness."

Glenda Lewis News anchor, WXYZ-TV (Channel 7)

"I wish calm, civil and intelligent conversation no matter the subject under discussion. For the residents of Macomb, Wayne and Oakland counties, in particular, I wish many visits to the DIA so that they can experience firsthand why our museum is considered one of the finest art museums in the country and re-connect with amazing examples of human spirit and creativity."

Annmarie Erickson Executive vice president, chief operating officer, Detroit Institute of Arts

"Good health for myself and my family, and may God continue to bless our country under the strong leadership of President Barack Obama."

Judge Damon J. Keith 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals

"In 2013, I hope people find the courage to accept those who are different — or think differently — than themselves. And I hope 2013 is the year that Aretha Franklin and I finally get around to recording that duet I wrote for us!"

Spike Co-host, WKQI-FM (95.5)

"I'd like to get my first ace in golf to go along with the Tigers winning the World Series and Lions heading for the Super Bowl. Not too much to ask!"

Mark Ridley Owner, Mark Ridley's Comedy Castle, Royal Oak

"In 2013, I hope our national conversation becomes less divisive and we all unite to make the world a better place. Also, 'Anchorman 2' better be funny or the whole year's a total sham."

Jason Carr Co-host of "The Nine," WJBK-TV (Channel 2)

"I hope and pray that the Detroit city mayor and City Council will work together to turn the City of Detroit around to be the great city it is capable of being."

The Rev. Dr. David Eberhard

Pastor, Historic Trinity Lutheran Church, Detroit

"Nothing to do with hockey. Nothing to do with me. My wish is for my children. That in the upcoming year each time they are given the choice to sit it out or dance ... I hope they dance."

Karen Newman, singer

"My wish is that every abled body should find gainful employment in the new year. Equally, good living-wage-paying jobs. Provided this should happen, mankind would be that much closer to stamping out poverty in America, thus the world!"

General Holiefield UAW Chrysler vice president

"I am wishing for continued forward momentum of Michigan cuisine to better enrich the culture of our residents, the livelihood of our farmers and the advancement of food focused professionals."

James Rigato Executive chef, the Root Restaurant, Waterford Township

"Obviously, I'm hoping for an end to the NHL lockout, not even as much for the players and owners, who share some equal part in this mess, but more for those connected with the game who have been absolutely crushed by the lack of a season."

John Keating Anchor/host, Fox Sports Detroit

"Jobs for every able-bodied resident, a good education in a safe environment for all children and the strength to address the challenges we face as one, united America."

Michigan Secretary of State Ruth Johnson

"My wish for 2013 is that I can find the discipline within me to live a healthy lifestyle filled with regular daily exercise and solid, common-sense eating habits. This would include yoga and meditation. I would like to know that my daily existence has a purpose and can affect other people in a positive way."

Keith Famie "Survivor" finalist and documentary filmmaker

"My wishes for 2013 are simple: Let's choose to be optimistic. Let's choose to cooperate and help others when we can. And let's choose to set one big goal for ourselves and swing for the fence."

Susan Todebush Vice president and general manager, Michigan Design Center

"I would like to see Detroit become a more popular spot for national club acts to swing through vs. avoid, as has historically been the case. I think it would serve as inspiration for the many great bands we have around here."

Chris Johnston Owner, Woodward Avenue Brewers, the Emory and the Loving Touch, Ferndale