Is a better year ahead?

The year 2009 had big headlines, from President Barack Obama taking office to major acquisitions and the continuing saga of multiple contract bid protests.

Our cover story gives a quick rundown of what we think were the big stories of the year, with a bias toward stories that will continue to play out in 2010.

I make no predictions for next year, and I have hopes that the next year will be better.

Life as the editor of a magazine and Web site has been rough for the last couple of years, to say the least. Like other industries, the economy has hit us hard, and at the same time, we in the media are going through a technological revolution.

As I told a friend recently, sometimes I feel like we are on the cusp of a golden age of journalism. Other days, I wonder if I’m like the harness maker watching a Model T roll down the road.

But I take heart from the lessons provided by the 2009 winners of the Greater Washington Contractor Awards. These executives and companies have succeeded because they keep their focus on their customers and mission.

At Washington Technology, we close 2009 with the same dedication with which we started the year. Our focus will remain on ferreting out the news and trends that affect the market. And as always, we welcome your input to keep us on the right path.

Happy holidays and happy new year.