This past Friday, the City of West Point said thanks to Point University for a pair of donated trees, which were planted at J. Smith Lanier II Park.

Such efforts should be commended for numerous reasons, one of which is that as the trees grow they will add to the beauty of the park.

We should look to this as the first of future projects to beautify the Valley.

Not to say the area looks bad as-is, but more can always be done by city officials, business owners and residents.

Much has changed in recent years. From the closure of the last mill to the opening of Kia and Point University, the area has gone through many major changes. As these continue, we need to do more to improve the look.

This doesn’t mean just large efforts, like demolishing rundown structures, but smaller ones as well.

Many here are already doing their part but we all need to pitch in.

Plant some trees and flowers to add a little greenery.

Give a building a fresh coat of paint.

Pick up any trash you see.

It doesn’t take much to make a difference, but a difference cannot be made if no effort is put in.

It will take all of us working together to improve our home. It is that strength working together that will see us move into a brighter future.