After being “on the road” much of the time since mid-November, both Joyce and I find returning home a joy and delight. And I’m sure each of you can relate. Crossing the Jenkins County line means we’re back among familiar surroundings.

Make no mistake. We thoroughly enjoy travel whether across the state, region, country, or even out of the country. We enjoy seeing and being in other surroundings and even other cultures. This world of ours is so rich, wonderful and varied that what we see and experience never ceases to amaze.

But it’s home that’s cool.

And while it is true our home county is suffering greatly with the economic disaster that has struck our country during the last decade, it is also true that many of our citizens are doing what they can to make things better.

We know that it is easy to gripe, to criticize, to find fault and blame “them” for what’s wrong or complain that “they” aren’t doing enough.

Look around; there are some good things happening. During my early morning runs it is so good to see the spruced-up courthouse clock now lighted. And there are more improvements to come. Cotton Avenue looks so good with its new light fixtures and sidewalks. I’m definitely looking forward to the completion of the entire project.

As for U.S. 25, we anticipate the end of nearly a decade of work that will complete the four-lane from Statesboro to Augusta.

Much is yet to be done, yet many are doing what they can and some more. The county is “work ready,” educational opportunities are available, work force training is available. Unfortunately, local jobs are not.

However, just as there are those working to improve the infrastructure in Millen, there are those working to bring employment opportunities to Jenkins County. Obviously it is an almost impossible task, as there are literally hundreds of communities like ours vying for those same opportunities.

To complain rather than to compliment is easy. But what sour persons these complainers be!

There are ways to make our home county better. While not all is well, there are opportunities aplenty for you and me to help.

“Quit your belly akin!” Pitch in!