Sometimes tragedies such as the one that took three young lives in Natchez this week can make it difficult to see the good in life.

But oftentimes the only way to move forward as a community is to think about the good things, the positives all around us.

Let’s review some of the good news of last week.

4Natchez and Vidalia came together this year for Fourth of July celebrations on the Vidalia Riverfront. Bands played and children burned endless energy in inflatable toys. At nightfall, the sky exploded with color and the ground with oohs and ahs.

The unity created for our nation’s birthday is a perfect model for everything in the Miss-Lou. If our area markets itself as a whole unit, we will attract bigger and better things and become stronger by the day.

4Downtown businesses in Natchez opened their doors on the Fourth this year, and the crowds came in droves. Tourists and lots of locals from Natchez and Vidalia made the day worthwhile for most of the restaurants and businesses.

Support of our local shops will make downtown vibrant and our tourists will be sure to come back — dollars in hand.

4 The City of Natchez received a clean bill of health from the municipal doctor this week when the city audit came back.

City department heads, the mayor and the city clerk do a good job making sure all money is accounted for, and even though a clean audit is expected, it still warrants a hearty pat on the back from residents.

As we close out the holiday week, it is more important than ever for this community to keep a positive outlook on the days ahead. Together, we’ll be just fine.