When Where to Retire magazine announced Vicksburg as one of the top eight American cities in which to retire, our community has much to celebrate.

Citing low taxes, affordable housing and amenities that enhance the quality of life, Where to Retire Editor Anne Fuller picked Vicksburg based on entertainment, a “buzzing downtown” and available outdoor opportunities versus cost.

“These communities prove beauty and amenities don’t have to come at a high cost,” she said.

Some of the unique and special aspects Where to Retire noticed about our town have caught the eye of others.

Cindy Thrana, new owner of the ‘Old Feld Home’ on Cherry St., saw a similar potential and the good quality of life Vicksburg and Warren County have to offer.

Thrana, who is a lover of antiques and old homes, plans to ultimately — along with her husband, who has an affinity for the Blues — move to Vicksburg. Vicksburg also answered her dream of living in a historic house, as those listed for sale in Warren County are much more affordable than those in her home state of Rhode Island.

Vicksburg gained much from her purchase of the ‘Old Feld Home,’ too. The work she has already completed on the home, which she describes herself as “a drop in the bucket,” has already greatly improved its appearance from Cherry Street. Thrana is helping one of Vicksburg’s historic homes reach its full potential, and with its location on one of our busiest thoroughfares, it is a treat for all to see it being restored.

A group of veterans who served together in Vietnam also saw something special in Vicksburg.

Their interest in history brought their group of more than 80 people to Vicksburg on a four-day visit of tours, eating delicious food and fellowship. Our own Joyce Clingan hosted the group at her home for lunch after learning they needed a space for such a large group to eat.

We believe that’s Southern hospitality at its finest, and who better to eat lunch with than the owner of Vicksburg’s famed Walnut Hills.

We spend a lot of time in this space discussing areas Vicksburg and Warren County can improve upon.

Today, we celebrate the honor of being recognized as a top retirement community. More so, we appreciate those who make it the special place we call home.