In my Early era

When I started writing this column, I sat and stared at the computer screen for quite a while. It took me some time to find the words to say after the announcement regarding the closure of Georgia-Pacific’s Cedar Springs mill. Truthfully, I’m still searching for the “right” words – but these before you here are what was laid on my heart after a very long week and weekend.

I tend to be “behind the times” when it comes to the latest lingo and catchphrases. I’m still saying things such as “cool beans” like it was coined only yesterday. One of my “new” favorite phrases that I see a good bit on social media and amongst some of the “young folks” is “I’m in my (fill in the blank) era.” This entire past week, over and over in my mind, I’ve been using the internal phrase: “I’m in my Early era.”

It may not seem like it right now – but the road for Early County is filled with so much potential.

This community is built on strong resilience and innovation. If you have read about the history of our county, you know this to be true. Historically, it has always been able to tackle challenges and hit any “curve ball” thrown its way.

Early County’s story, including this chapter that we are currently in, embodies the power of community resiliency. While confronting these challenges, we must be ready to seize opportunities and continue paving the way for a sustainable, prosperous future. There is no doubt in my mind that the true resilient spirit of Early will set the stage for the next chapter in our county’s history. It’s one filled with hope and new possibilities.

These words still don’t feel like enough. As I have previously written about, the world of economic development is very confidential. Please know the Development Authority of Early County is working daily (even on Sundays!) with our local and state leadership to navigate brighter days for us all.

Last week can definitely be compared to lemons – but moving forward we can make lemonade for it. If there’s a community that can overcome any hardship presented – it’s this one.

I’m in my “Early era,” are you?

Shared with permission from The Early County News