A new year is an appropriate time to count our many blessings for our beautiful historic town, especially the downtown.

The Christmas decorations—traditional tree, wreaths, garlands, displays on the bluff, and numerous lights-transformed downtown for both residents and tourists throughout the season.  We are grateful to the city personnel who worked to put up the decorations and then remove and store them for the next season.

We are blessed to have civic-minded residents and organizations who have initiated projects to beautify and preserve our city. We are indebted to the following:

Marcia McCullough who originated and spearheaded a beautification project supported by the Garden Lovers of Natchez and local businesses and individuals.  She persevered through hindrances and heat to hang baskets of colorful flowers and foliage on Main, Franklin, and Broadway streets.

Mac Hazlip who has taken Memorial Park under his wing, planting lots of white azaleas, watering the grass and plants during the hot months, and overseeing the general appearance of the park.

Chesney Doyle who has worked diligently for several years to raise funds to hire a planner to develop a master plan for the future of the larger downtown area. Through the help of generous donors, she recently reached her goal of $100,000.

Warren Reuther who is funding new attractions — double-decker buses to circle the city and a boutique hotel in the Regions Bank building on Franklin Street. Both endeavors will broaden tourism options in Natchez.

The Master Gardeners who stepped forward to save all the endangered crepe myrtle trees through their labor and funding.  Ever vigilant, they will treat the trees again if necessary.

The Community Alliance who masterminded the incredible Natchez Trails and continue to work for the improvement of the entire bluff area.

Local shopkeepers and restaurateurs who have invested in downtown businesses.

Bankers whose institutions anchor the downtown and signal sound financial footings.

Antebellum church members,who not only attend services but also preserve these architectural gems, important landmarks of the city.

Many other optimistic individuals, businesses, and organizations who invest time, energy, and money daily to make our city an inviting and safe place to live and work.

We are fortunate to have a beautiful city with a viable downtown area. Let’s continue to support it and show our appreciation by shopping, eating, and patronizing our local businesses both downtown and throughout the city of Natchez. Money spent is Natchez is an investment in the future of the town and its citizens. 

Mary Eidt is a Natchez resident.