Sen. Richard Shelby (R-Tuscaloosa) believes the nation is about to turn the corner in a number of areas.

We share his optimism, and hope the first month of President Bush's administration are a sign of times to come.

Shelby outlined some priorities:

* Education.

* Defense.

* Energy policy.

* Tax relief.

* Preserving Social Security and Medicare.

* Infrastructure and economic opportunity.

* Protecting privacy in the information age.

We believe increased harmony in Congress will lead to getting more done to benefit places like Butler County.