In a world where sensationalized headlines lead the television news broadcasts and social media clickbait often tramples out anything worthwhile, it is comforting to know that good news — well-told stories can still win the day.

Recently, we published two stories — both in their charity and in their hopefulness — that made the news day better and brightened up a few cold winter days.

The first, a story about Erin Hern’s drive to create a special Christmas day dinner for emergency medical personnel and first responders, recently wrapped up its sixth year of warming the hearts and the stomachs of those who serve our community, while sacrificing time with their families.

In just those six short years, that group of dedicated volunteers has rallied dozens of residents in support of the men and women who watch over us each and every day, not just on the holidays.

It is our hope that by telling Erin’s story, and the story of her band of Christmas dinner elves, that next year’s dinner could be larger and serve more.

The second story was of Vicksburg’s first baby born in 2020 and in this decade.

After telling the story of Noah’s arrival and sharing it on our social media outlets, we watched as the story was shared over and over again, liked and then shared again. The comments were congratulatory and positive.

It should also be noted Noah’s arrival on New Year’s Day came just one day before Vicksburg and Warren County received record rainfall. Coincidence? We really, really hope so.

We know bad news happens. We tell enough of it.

But, it is nice to know there is still a want, a need for telling the lighter stories, the happier stories and the stories that make you feel good about yourself and the community we are all truly blessed to call home.