Tomorrow will mark a historic, but perhaps less-than-memorable milestone in Natchez’s history.

Our home city will turn 301 years old on Thursday.

Last year earned all the fame and glory as the city marked three centuries of existence.

Imagining that a full year has passed since dozens of residents gathered — or more aptly described as melted — together on the ground where it all began.

The ceremony officially dedicated the Natchez Park Service’s opening of the Fort Rosalie site to the public.

The event was one of a number held on Aug. 3, 2016, including a block party in which Natchez kicked up its heels and celebrated 300 years gone by.

But as the 301st approaches quickly, today is a good day to reflect on where we are heading into the future.

Natchez must find a way to embrace change and work hard to improve the quality of life of residents. If and when the community’s broken sidewalks, unkempt public spaces and aging infrastructures are repaired, more people and more businesses will come.

Natchez’s bones are sound, but we lack the quality of life muscle tone and make-up to truly shine at our best.

Much talk was given to last year’s tricentennial celebration being a launching point for the “next 300 years,” and it could certainly be that, but only if we collectively work together to shape that future and insist that Natchez can improve itself and the quality of life it offers to residents and visitors alike.