In today’s world of 24-hour news cycles and instant access to information it is easy to get hung up on the negatives in our society and overlook the many things for which we should be thankful.

Today, Thanksgiving, is a good day to reflect on those things, both as individuals and as a community.

Lawrence County and its residents have many reasons to say thanks including:

> A tight-knit community where most of the citizens genuinely care about one another.

> A relatively low crime rate compared to many other parts of the country that allows for safe neighborhoods and quality of life

> Resources like Lake Vesuvius and Wayne National Forest that allow us to appreciate the wonders of nature each and every day.

> An economy that has been at least partially shielded from some of the devastating hits faced across the nation.

> A Tri-State region that allows access to some of the resources of a metropolitan area without sacrificing the small-town feel.

> Economic and development government leaders who, although they may not always make decisions everyone agrees with, seem to have the region’s best interests at heart.

> Access to vital infrastructure including U.S. 52, the Ohio River and ample railways that can be a strong foundation for the future.

Our region isn’t perfect but there are many reasons we can say thanks.