With bright, beautiful balloons crisscrossing the Miss-Lou skies, residents had plenty to see during the Great Mississippi River Balloon Race last weekend.  Friday morning’s media flight and Saturday morning’s race attracted large crowds. For the first time in six years, the popular barge drop event returned this weekend. While no balloons hit the floating target in the middle of the Mississippi River, residents lined the riverfronts on both side of the river to see approximately 20 balloons dot the sky. After a couple of years when weather kept balloons mostly on the ground, this weekend was a welcome success.

Other good news of the week includes:

-Deputy Duke is in town and will soon be ready to track down missing persons, escaped inmates and participate in Adams County Search and Rescue operations. Local businessman Mike Turner recently donated the 18-month-old bloodhound to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office. Duke recently started training and Sheriff Travis Patten said he hopes the dog will be ready to assist soon. Thanks to Turner, Patten and others who have made Duke’s service possible.

-The Natchez City Cemetery has a hired a new director who is no stranger to public service. Former Natchez alderman Mark Fortenbery was selected to manage and maintain the cemetery. With Fortenbery’s prior knowledge of how the city works and his familiarity with current city personnel, the new cemetery director has already had a positive impact on the maintenance and upkeep of the property. With Fortenbery at the helm, we know the cemetery is in capable hands.

As we come back to earth after a successful balloon race weekend, let us always be on the lookout for the great things happening in our community.