One week down, 51 more to go. As we continue to look for the opportunities and possibilities of the new year, let us look at the good news that happened during the first week of 2018:

• The Natchez-Adams County Airport Commission is focused, not just on the present, but also on the future decades away. In the coming weeks, commission members will choose a consultant to create a master plan for the Natchez-Adams County Airport. The last airport master plan was created in 1976. Director of Aviation Ronald Hall said the master plan would help the airport reach its potential and will aid in applying and receiving grant money for airport improvements that could benefit the town’s economy.
• Azaiah Ambrose is busy preparing for his debut on one of America’s grandest stages. The sophomore at Natchez High School was recently selected by the High School Honors Performance Series to rehearse, tour and perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City. After receiving word that he was chosen to go to New York, Ambrose has been practicing his music in preparation for his trip in February. Congratulations to Ambrose for this great honor.
• Gina Martin O’Brien recently received recognition by the State of Missouri for her work in education with gifted students. Although most of O’Brien’s career was not in Mississippi, the recently retired educator says her passion for teaching began in Natchez. O’Brien spent the majority of her childhood in Natchez and returned for her first teaching job at Trinity Episcopal Day School. At Trinity, she first learned the importance of teaching children to think and making sure children know their thoughts matter. After O’Brien announced her retirement last year, she received an award of recognition by the Missouri Senate.

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