As we begin to look ahead to a new year filled with possibilities, let us take a look at a few of the good news items from our community last week:

• Inspired by St. Mary Basilica’s invitation to “Walk in the Spirit of the Christmas Season,” Cathedral Middle School teacher Jennifer Haile decided to demonstrate to her students the power of a simple card and a kind message. Haile asked her students to mail Christmas cards to the influential people in their lives. The group of sixth-graders sent cards to teachers, family members and other mentors. The students quickly realized the impact of their projects. Students came away from the effort with stories of proud mothers and fathers and of friends and mentors brought to tears by the students’ thoughtful messages. Thanks to Haile for the reminder about such simple acts of kindness.
• Santa Claus made his annual stop at the Braden School Auditorium to hand out bags of toys as part of the Natchez Children’s Christmas Tree Fund toy distribution. With generous donations from the community and from members of the Santa Claus Committee, the annual toy distribution provided presents for children who would have otherwise gone without much this Christmas.
• Two local children learned the power of hard work and volunteerism this Christmas and, as a result, received their holiday wish. Jerry and Madison Roberts spent many hours at the Natchez-Adams County Humane Society animal shelter this winter cleaning dog pens, feeding pets and doing other odd jobs. Their work was part of an agreement with their parents Graham and Kelsi Roberts before adopting a dog of their own. The two received a Christmas surprise when they discovered the dog they thought was already adopted was coming to their house for the holidays.

Let us remember to thank those who continue to make our community great.