Summer’s heat and humidity has given over to fall’s pleasant days and cool, crisp nights and the onslaught of fall festivals has begun. The last three months of the year are always busy with many things for residents to do. As we sit down to take a momentary break, let us look at some of the highlights from this past week:

-All eyes were on Main Street Thursday as residents filled the sidewalks near St. Mary Basilica on the east end and the Bridge of Sighs on the west end to watch the Blue Angels streak across the sky. The U.S. Navy’s flight demonstration squadron passed by Natchez on the way to Houston. Celebrating the Natchez Tricentennial, the six jets left behind large plumes of smoke and jubilant crowds below.

-On Friday, residents filled the Natchez City Auditorium to learn about the contributions of Africa and African-Americans to Natchez. Visitors to “Stories of Africa: Contributions from the Continent to Natchez” were treated to an evening of music, dance, storytelling and learning. The event began with displays featuring African crafts, culture and food and agriculture and ended with locals dancing on the floor. Dancers from the Braxton Academy of Dance along with drummers, dancers and a stilt walker from the Kumbuka African Drum and Dance Collective and storyteller Khabir Shareef made for an enjoyable and educational evening.

Thanks to everyone who continues to make Natchez’s yearlong birthday celebration exciting and filled with surprises.

-Rodney native Gabrielle Richardson was honored as one of the new Voices of Mississippi. Richardson was awarded honorable mention in the recent singing competition sponsored by the Mississippi Opera. The Ole Miss doctoral student says she is thankful for the notice and wants to mentor others to excel and reach for their dreams. Congratulations to Richardson. Her music and life message is inspiring.

As we look toward another week of blue skies and beautiful weather, let us remember to give thanks to everyone who is striving to make our community great.