International Newspaper Carrier Day is today, Oct. 11. Our industry set this day apart to honor those people dedicated to delivering the newspaper to millions of homes across the country.

It is our goal to become your first choice for all your local news and events. But in order to do that, we must have hardworking, dedicated carriers who will deliver the paper each and every day.

Have you taken the time to think about how your paper arrives each morning? Someone got up before 2 a.m., fought the urge to roll over and go back to sleep and made their way to the newspaper office to pick up your newspaper.

They have at times had to battle the rain, sleet, mud, hurricanes and — on very rare occasions here — snow. Some of our carriers have driven down roads that the postal carrier refused to go down. Each day when they get up, their only objective is to get your paper to your home before you wake up.

While most people are sleeping safe and sound, they are trudging through hot, humid nights of summer and the wet, cold nights of winter to accomplish their objective.

All too often they hear only their customers’ complaints. Today, give them a big "thank you.” We are.

To all our carriers: Words cannot express our gratitude for all that you do for this newspaper and our customers. We appreciate every flat tire, rain- drenched seat, ink-smeared hand and surprise bird attack that you put up with to deliver The Tifton Gazette. You are the wheels that keep this newspaper rolling. Thank you for all that you do.