A new version of 'trickle down' economics on horizon

My previous blog saluted Huntsville for being named by Pitney Bowes Software as a "metro magnet" - the latest in a long list of honors, economic and otherwise, for our city.
However, not to put a dark cloud over the honor, there is possible trouble on the horizon.
The city's recognition has been for its success over the last few years but it may be facing difficulty in the not-too-distant future because of the specter of sequestration and federal budget cuts.
We've been able to survive the devastating effects of the recession because of the diverse business base.
Now, though, whatever growth in employment or falling unemployment rates we've seen, the city's employment opportunities may stagnate.
You see, scores of companies - many small, woman- or veteran-owned businesses - are no longer hiring or are laying off employees.
Those companies' decisions are made because they are reliant on federal contracts or are subcontractors and are awaiting the outcomes of the awards.
I am among thousands of Huntsvillians either seeking employment with or are employed by these companies and are growing increasingly frustrated and anxious with the inaction of our nation's leaders.
Enough with the preening and trying to be the biggest badass on the Hill. Get to work to get our country moving. You were elected to serve Americans, not a party.
A side thought: Maybe we ought to lock the president in a room with Reid, McConnell, Pelosi and Boehner and no one comes out until a deal is reached. No meeting with reporters. No spinning their own version of the discussions.
Their lack of progress affects millions and millions of people, not just government contractors, either.
The "trickle down" from not hiring and cutting employees can affect other businesses, particularly retail, in the coming weeks and, maybe, even months.
Being dependent on Washington was for so long a strength of Huntsville.
Now, we may begin to feel some pain.
So, will it be a merry Christmas and happy new year for the area?
I hope so, but that remains to be seen.