Sadly, it seems that the critics and naysayers in many communities are often the most vocal.

All citizens with positive attitudes and the desire to see our communities become better places to live must work to counteract that effect. Some want to criticize, complain and belittle the efforts of those who are actually involved and trying to make a difference.

A handful of recent projects in the city of Ironton and others across Lawrence County are continually criticized by a small, but vocal, contingent of citizens. It seems that some individuals cannot see anything positive in anything. A perfect example is the Friends of Ironton’s playground project that will provide a safe, fun environment for children during summer months.

Admittedly, the project has fallen behind schedule and has been struggling for funding, but that doesn’t make it any less important.

Another example is the beautification of downtown Ironton with projects like Ironton In Bloom and the Ironton Rotary Club’s fountain project.

Critics point out that these projects don’t create jobs and won’t change the culture of our communities overnight. They are correct.

However, they also overlook the importance of community pride in making our region marketable and desirable.

Each and every citizen who wants to see our region move forward must make a commitment and a concerted effort to be a positive voice and drown out the negativity.

The reality is there will always be negative people and there will always be those who cannot see anything good, even when it is right in front of them.

But those of us who can have an obligation to speak up and make sure that our voices are heard.

If the negative voices are allowed to be the loudest, the rest of us are just as much at fault. That’s because we didn’t speak up to make sure everyone is aware of all the great things going on in Ironton and Lawrence County.