Today we welcome 2015 with open arms and an optimistic outlook.

Things are looking up for Natchez and the surrounding area. A pile of potential good economic prospects seem to be lingering around the corner, perhaps a few of which will turn from promises into realities.

All our area needs is a bit of positive momentum to keep things churning along.

Perhaps the most amazing thing about 2015 is that Natchez is 12 months away from the beginning of its tricentennial celebration.

It’s difficult to imagine sometimes that Natchez is truly so unique among the myriad of special places throughout America.

Natchez is the oldest European settlement on the Mississippi River — and the Natchez Indians were here before the Europeans arrived.

With Natchez’s big yearlong birthday bash just around the corner, now is a great time for all of us to realize our role in the success of our community.

Speak positively about Natchez when talking with people who are not living here. You’re part of our area’s biggest marketing efforts but you may not realize it. The words that come out of your mouth are important, particularly when they fall upon the ears of visitors or potential visitors.

Let’s make 2015 a great year, one in which we really begin to get excited as a community about the celebration ahead in 2016.