EDMOND — Challenges abound today. Also, though, amidst the challenges are opportunities. While much of the nation struggles with a deep recession, we are lucky. The brunt has missed us so far. This gives us the chance to set a course to build a stronger economic future right here in Oklahoma, right here in Edmond. No one is going to do this for us. It is up to us and in doing so we have the means to create a stronger community and emphasize achievement. While facing challenges we must celebrate the good and build upon it.

Significantly, all three Edmond high schools are ranked by Newsweek in the 1,500 Best High Schools in the nation. This is great news! This is no small accomplishment and a firm foundation for future growth. It is the cornerstone of Edmond’s future economic development. Business expansion depends on strong schools, location, infrastructure, lifestyle and opportunity. We have them all. Congratulations to the students, teachers, administration and community. This recognition says much about efforts to grow top-ranked schools in tough times.

Recently, Cathy and I took a driving trip across the Eastern United States. We travel so much by plane on business we miss the essence of America. We carve out time to see the country by car, sightsee and relax together escaping (except for the Blackberry) business demands. This trip was an eye opener and humbling.

We saw some incredible places from Lincoln’s home in Illinois to Gettysburg and Lake Placid. We also saw first-hand the realties of a deep recession outside the protective confines of our borders. As Oklahomans we always have known we live in a great state with a lot of hidden gems from mountains and forests in the east to mesa’s in the west. We are of good stock rooted in both pioneer spirit and Native American tradition.

The struggles of the economy, so far, have passed us by. We need to be grateful for that. Yet we must use every minute to build a better economic foundation. This recession is not over. It could get deeper with mounting unemployment and rapidly increasing deficits. It is no time to be idle.

We have a story to tell. Former Gov. George Nigh once said, “We do not have a clear image of ourselves to project to others.” It is time to create an image based upon good news. We alone are responsible for that. We can set our course. We stand on a firm foundation. Communities like Edmond are an island oasis of business opportunity when the rest of the nation is buffeted by angry fiscal seas. Especially now we can unite in a common mission of community. Not 120 years old our city and state’s infrastructure is new. We can build on our positives, celebrate the good and spread an image of hope, opportunity and prosperity. This is a great place to live and raise a family centered on outstanding schools. We know it. We need to let everyone else know it too.

Our message is strong. Anchored by great schools we reflect a strong community. There are opportunities here for business and families. We have a lower cost of living than most, we have a new, not old infrastructure, we have great highways and transportation corridors, an airport and strong economy. Shame on us if we do not build on this. A new convention center is a reality. We have several universities to link to common education together to business. Our neighborhoods are solid. We have undeveloped rail connections. This is the message we deliver and image we build for our future.

Let’s compete and make a difference. roll up our sleeves and get to work crafting an economic plan that blends the best of what we have to offer. Let’s be the best. We can offer opportunities to many here and outside of Oklahoma. Since the Land Run of 1889 to now, through good and bad, this is what our history is built upon. Let’s celebrate the good and good things will happen.

PHIL G. BUSEY SR., an Edmond resident, is chairman and CEO of The Busey Group of Companies.