Ironically, my last column advised county residents to subscribe to our local newspapers as a good way to keep up with what's happening. But I didn't realize that a buyout/merger of those two was imminent. So now that we have only one, we give our best wishes to this staff and remind you that we really depend upon your complete coverage. And I still advocate that you present subscribers share your paper and encourage your friends and family to do the same.

I will admit that as I watch, hear, read much of state, national and international news, I am almost inclined to wish that I didn't know what is happening.

Often it is a real relief just to concentrate on a mundane routine-- fix a simple meal, pay a bill, call a neighbor.

All information about what is happening is not necessarily exciting or disconcerting; it can just be interesting or open new windows.

For instance, the Oct. 13 meeting of the Historical and Genealogical Society will feature special speaker Jim Grogan of Gainesville, whose roots run deep in Dawson County.

Grogan served 23 years in the Secret Service, with tours in Washington, D.C., Carter Protection Service in Plains and Atlanta.

He will share some of his unique experiences and insights.

The public is invited to the event at the Dawson County Public Library, which begins with refreshments at 5 p.m.

Of course, society members are still basking in the reception of the new history book and in the authors' trip to the Governor's mansion to present a copy of that book.

Other organizations also offer many programs and projects, such as the Humane Society's recent Pups in the Park, which can keep our blood pressures calmer and our attentions more focused on local constructive activities and less on frightening overseas developments, floodings and shootings, or outlandish claims by candidates and commentators.

Because I am somewhat more confined than most people (or than I was accustomed to being), my world and observations are more limited. And that's the reason I give to those who sometimes chide me for not writing a column more frequently. But it is also the reason that I constantly encourage others to become more aware of local activities in which to engage.

Just as I applaud those who travel while they are still able to get around easily, so do I urge them to get off the proverbial couch and help make our community an even better place to live.

Believe me, you'll be old before you realize it, and knowing about what's happening may be almost all you can do.

Perhaps now you can participate in some of those happenings.

Will someone please say "Amen."