Too often folks who live in small communities think there’s little in the way of entertainment or activities to be offered. In Clinton, that is far from the truth.

Take a look around at the plethora of offerings there are. From art exhibits and a bevy of classes at the Small House and live dramatic productions at the Sampson Community Theater to an upcoming triathlon, an exercise venue at the Wellness Center and ways to live healthier lives through the Cooperative Extension Service’s Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less class, much is being offered within the confines of Clinton’s city limits.

And that doesn’t even scratch the surface.

For youngsters, there’s any number of recreation activities to whet the appetite, and for senior adults, the list is innumerable thanks to the diligent work of Clinton Recreation and Parks staff.

In fact, many of the recreation center offerings aren’t just for senior citizens, many are open to those of any age who just want to come out to the Bellamy Center and enjoy a good time.

For instance, there’s bluegrass music nearly every month; then there’s the line dancing every Tuesday night.

Those who participate in the line dancing love it; those who don’t are missing a great chance to get a little exercise, enjoy a little fellowship and do something that’s, well, just plain fun.

There’s also the Wii games that many area seniors participate in on a regular basis. It’s another form of exercise and fellowship, but just as importantly, it’s a venue for those looking for something to do with their time.

Then, of course, there are the civic functions that have a two-fold approach to their offerings — to raise money for needed projects within the community and to offer a little fun and community-wide fellowship.

This Friday and Saturday, it’s the annual Kiwanis Club Pancake Supper. As good as the food is — and it’s fantastic — the fellowship is even better. For those who’ve ever been to the pancake fund-raising, it’s like a big family reunion, a wonderful testament to the love this community feels for its people. The same can be said for the annual Clinton Rotary Club’s annual Oyster Roast, which brings out hundreds of people to enjoy the food, but just as importantly the of those attending.

And next Friday, March 5, it will be the Clinton-Sampson Rotary Club’s annual fund-raising bingo, a family event that, each year, is touted by all those who attend as one of the most fun events they’ve ever attended.

And that only scratches the surface of the activities that go on in our community throughout the week, month or year, events that offer people of all ages an opportunity to get out, do something fun, help their community and simply have a good time.

While we aren’t a metropolitan area, with a plethora of entertainment choices with which to select, what is offered here are quality choices that we all should appreciate. And if we are so inclined, these are choices with which we can be active participants.