As we close out 2007 and roll quickly into 2008 let’s pause to look back at the good news of last week.

4 Just as it always has for the last 79 years the Santa Claus Committee made Christmas Eve very special for a group of boys and girls in the Miss-Lou.

Children — chosen by Catholic Charities based on need — gathered in the Braden School auditorium Monday afternoon to see Santa. Santa came bearing gifts purchased through the Children’s Christmas Tree Fund.

The fund is comprised of dollars donated by citizens. Each child walked away with a large bag of toys and a smile.

4 Saturday, the Worthy Women of Watkins Street Cemetery gathered at the Natchez Association for the Preservation of African-American Culture Museum to raise some funds for their cause.

The group — formed approximately two years ago by Thelma White — has worked for months to cleanup the overgrown and abandoned cemetery. Their goal is to make the site accessible to family members searching for their loved ones.

Now, they need money to maintain their work and purchase lawn care items. This group saw a community need and took it on as a project. They have taken matters into their own hands and should be role model for the rest of the community.

4 Work on the Arcade Theatre in Ferriday is nearing a close, and organizers are excited about the finished product. The restored building — originally built in 1926 —will be used to expand exhibits housed at the Delta Music Museum. It will also have meeting space and the capabilities to host concerts.

We hope everyone has a safe and happy New Year and a great 2008.