It’s the start of a new calendar year, and along with the changing of the date comes the hopes and aspirations for a better future.

We certainly all hope that our 2017 will be even greater than 2016, and we recommend that all citizens do their part to help.

There are a lot of opportunities in which you can contribute. First, we recommend that you attend at least one of the meetings of a local governmental body — including the Bogalusa City Council, Washington Parish Council, or our local school boards. If you have never attended a meeting before, it is a great chance to see how government works at the local level. You don’t even have to speak during the public comments, although that is certainly your right. You can simply sit and watch, observing as your peers work to make our communities better, and hold them accountable when they fall short of that goal.

Also, take advantage of the chance to volunteer. There are a number of great organizations, including the Bogalusa Help Center, Project Save Bogalusa, museums, local civic clubs, and many other groups, that work hard to improve the lives of those who live in Washington Parish. They are always looking for additional help, and any donation or volunteer hours — no matter how big or small — is always appreciated.

Finally, do whatever you can to make a difference in your own local community. Whether it’s cleaning up litter, or sponsoring an event for kids or the elderly, we can all make our individual neighborhoods even better.

Let’s work together and make 2017 great.