As the calendar turns another page to May and spring slowly simmers into summer let’s look at some of the good news from last week:

 When it comes to public speaking, Cathedral freshman Damira McGruder knows how to use her God-given gift of gab. McGruder, who first practiced her public speaking skills in church, won first place in the Key Club’s oratorical contest at the recent Key Club convention in Natchez. As she becomes the president of Cathedral’s Key Club next year and looks to her future in college and beyond, we know that her well-honed speaking skills will carry her far. We look forward to hearing more wise words from McGruder in the future.

 For the Daughters of the American Revolution in Natchez, the weekend was filled with celebrations. On Thursday, the Natchez Chapter of the DAR celebrated its 120th anniversary with birthday cake and calliope music provided by local musician Burnley Cook at antebellum Rosalie, which is owned by the DAR. The Natchez Chapter also celebrated with state DAR officials the 125th anniversary of national DAR.

One day later, the William Dunbar Chapter dedicated two cast iron benches in celebration of Natchez’s Tricentennial. The benches that now sit in the Rosalie Bicentennial Gardens will serve as a lasting reminder of the city’s yearlong birthday celebration.

Thanks to the DAR’s members for playing a vital role in the city’s preservation and celebration of Natchez history.

Dogs and arrows were flying Saturday during the Natchez Tricentennial Outdoor Games sponsored by the Ironmen of the First Baptist Church in Natchez. Thanks to those who helped bring the DockDogs tour to the Natchez bluff and for organizing a 3-D archery tournament at the bottom of Learned’s Mill Road. Even though morning storms briefly delayed the excitement, the group of dogs with super canine abilities showed off what they were capable of doing in front of an excited crowd.

As the last days of spring lead into summer, let’s always be mindful of the good things happening in our community.