It doesn't take a genius to know that local retailers enjoyed a successful Christmas this year. Loaded parking lots and crowded stores offered more proof as Rutherford County mercdhants showed healthy sales gains.

This positive direction is also being felt by auto sales and is seeing improvements with real estate. Figures show that construction has not moved much, but pre-owned home sales are moving up. That's an improvement over previous flat sales.

One realtor told WGNS News, "Up until recently, we had a surplus of homes. Now most of the residences in the hundred thousand dollar range have been sold, and we're working on reducing the more expensive inventory."

The realtor, who asked to remain anonymous, noted that by spring he hopes to see construction start to move again.

The national economy is still fragile, and very politically motivated. Will opposites find a meeting place to work together for our country or will they continue separate paths?

Analysts agree that American citizens agree on the basics, and both sides have been voicing similar messages. However, the leaders seem to be blinded by the philosophies of their party. Forecasters note that pressure is building, and likely the message from their constituents is getting clearer. Stay tuned to WGNS, as the New Year arrives--there may be some suprising compromises that will be good for the economy and the public.