I’m hearing the expression “quality of life” often of late.

What does that mean to you? I suspect it’s something much different than my interpretation.

“Higher taxes are going to bring us down!” some holler. “The county commissioners have their heads stuck in the sand, or that ‘other’ place,” they scream in Sound Off.

The Navy’s proposed outlying landing field was going to negatively impact our entire region many felt. People organized, objected, changed the Navy’s plans. No small feat.

Beaufort County Medical Center was facing financial ruin, and potential suitors were considered. People organized, insisted on the best choice, it happened. Another victory.

What’s facing us now? Will continued growth at the county’s largest employer, PotashCorp Aurora, bring more jobs and grow our tax base? Are there legitimate concerns about odors and pollution from such an operation? Can existing and emerging technology eliminate such risks?

I should disclose that I own property directly across the river from the PotashCorp Aurora operation. As such, I have a very personal stake in this discussion, but don’t we all? This is a significant matter with regional implications.

It’s too soon for anyone to take a rigid stance, until we know the facts. Let’s make informed, rational decisions and act accordingly. We, the community, should seek a clear understanding of the potential risks and benefits.

We will. We always have.

The Daily News offers a forum for discussion through letters to the editor and Sound Off. I have often repeated the maxim that “a newspaper is the community talking to itself.”

So, let’s talk!

Coming soon:
“Washington the Magazine”

The week prior to Thanksgiving, thousands of copies of the inaugural edition of Washington’s own every-other-month publication will hit the streets.

We are excited about this new venture and look forward to hearing your comments. A magazine expert advised us to make our editorial focus “comfort food” in print. Let us know if we’re successful in doing so. A sampler platter of offerings:

• Read about historic buildings seeing new life as condos and lofts.
• Learn how the book, musical and movie the “Show Boat” were inspired in Bath.
• Discover delicious recipes and cooking tips just in time for Thanksgiving.
• Be inspired to exercise along the waterfront.
• Find out how one local family makes the most of river living
• Read David Norwood’s account of establishing family roots along the shores of the river.
• See pictures of friends and family, gathered in fellowship in “The Scene.”

“Christmas Gift Guide”

Find Christmas gift-giving ideas in this special tabloid in the Nov. 23 edition of the Daily News. We’re giving away $350 in “Santa Bucks” to readers who can find the special logo implanted in ads in the section. Correct entries will be entered into a drawing.