It seems like it was just yesterday when I wrote my first column to become the Advocate's new sports editor.

I was so looking forward to getting back into sports after spending a year on the news side of reporting in Montgomery.

Now, it's time to wish everyone in Butler County and the Camellia City their best since I'm leaving the Advocate next week to become the new managing editor at the Alexander City Outlook.

There are few places that I've been in the southeast, that I said that I would love to return.

I must say that the people of this county and this city truly made me feel right at home.

For all the good and the bad we've been through, I feel confident that this town will continue to thrive.

Greenville is a growing town that will only continue to grow and prosper because of its people and leaders.

I'm sure there have been a few columns in the past that have irked a few people here and there, but I think that I've been fair.

The reason for some of those columns have been strictly to give a voice to those who may have only whispered about it behind closed doors because they were afraid of being an outcast in such a tight-knit community.

I hope that my voice has added an unbiased look at your community and your county.

As those of you who kept up with my perfect predictions when it was college bowl season, you know that my predictions are always accurate.

OK, this is where you laugh.

But seriously, as I look into my crystal pigskin I see this county returning to the football prominence it once enjoyed.

I see four head football coaches who not only care about wins and losses, but also how productive our young men will be when they go out into the world.

I applaud you all on a great season, although you haven't taken a single snap.

I also applaud the parents of this town and county. You are a county where I would be proud to say that my son or daughter came from the Butler County school system or played in the recreation leagues.

The parents of this county and community are my heroes because they give so much to make sure that their children get the very best.

I will miss my second home. I just hope the door is open when I return.

Kevin Taylor is sports editor of The Greenville Advocate. Call him at (334) 382-3111 ext. 122 or e-mail kevin.taylor@greenvilleadvocate.com.