As a surprise to no one, it turns out the Mayans were wrong, and the world didn’t end on Dec. 21, 2012. The prediction was as defunct as the Mayan civilization, but will go down in history with other Armageddon “scares,” like the infamous Y2K hub-bub at the end of 1999.

Although the recession has made things pretty grim not only nationwide but right here in Anson County, it’s a new year and therefore a time for new possibilities, and new outlooks on life. For far too long, Ansonians have been focused on rising unemployment, closings of businesses and worries of just how bad things may get.

But there is some good news as we enter 2013.

Construction should start this year on both a new hospital facility and a new home for the county’s Emergency Management Services, both of which are expected to last for decades — and perhaps even a century — to come. An agri-civic center is also in the works.

The year past saw nearly-completed or complete renovations to the 100-year-old county courthouse, 40-year-old Parks & Recreation offices and nearly 100-year-old Belk building in uptown Wadesboro. These are not only eyesores-turned-showcases, but also signs of new life in our county.

Granted, new buildings don’t always mean new jobs, but in this case, more aesthetically pleasing facilities can only be a positive for those who may be considering a move to Anson.

Who knows what else 2013 may bring? Hornwood CEO Chuck Horne reported at a recent meeting that the textile industry is showing signs of life in the Southeastern United States. It’s not outside the realm of possibility that Anson may renew itself, and Wadesboro could become a bustling town once more.

So, instead of fretting about a “fiscal cliff,” or which store may or may not be closing next, let’s look at the good things that are happening in Anson County this year. There’s a lot to be hopeful for.