What a year it’s been! Our area has had a pretty amazing year in some respects.

Despite a continued sluggish national economy and the effects that are felt locally, the area continues to move forward.

We’ve seen record flooding, and new businesses announce their impending arrival. We’ve witnessed area voters calling for a sweeping change to local governments.

But as amazing as some parts of 2011 have been, we’d love it, absolutely love it, if 2011 went out quietly.

We know; it’s New Year’s and Natchez is a party town. If that’s you’re cup of, well, tea, then so be it.

But please do all of us a favor and do not drink and drive.

Far too often, our egos get the best of us and we think, “I’m not drunk. I’m fine.”

As adults, we should know better. Just follow a simple rule: If you drink, let someone else drive.

Call a cab, call a tee-totaling friend, call anyone, but don’t slide behind the wheel of a 3,000-pound vehicle and jeopardize life and property because you’re simply too proud to ask for a hand.

Our local law enforcement officers will be out in full force this weekend and, if you’re stupid and decide to break the law, we hope and pray they catch you before you kill yourself or someone else.

The year 2011 has, at times, roared along like a lion. With your help and common sense, it can go out like a quiet lamb.