As Christmas grows ever closer and the pace around you quickens, remember to take a few minutes and be thankful for the good things around us.

Let’s review some of the good news from the Miss-Lou last week:

-Vidalia and Ferriday elections are on the horizon, and races in both towns are drawing quite a large slate of interested candidates. Though it may be too early to start picking sides, it’s great to see such interest in local politics. A full slate of candidates shows a healthy community.

– In Natchez this week, Lt. Gov. Elect Phil Bryant brought a special tour group through — 18 state senators.

The leaders were in town to see what Natchez has to offer. Bryant wanted to tout tourism and let elected officials know how important it is to communities like ours. But in the process, he brought us a few tourists, and for that we are grateful. If our state leaders visit us now, it’s likely to help us in the long run.

-Two local teens have been honored for their work with the 4H club and their community service. Ellen Bairnsfather and Caleb Vines won the Good Provider Award for giving back to those around them. The 4H club provides a good environment for young people to learn, and we are glad these two have been recognized for their service.

With one week to go before Christmas, we know the news to come is going to be good.