There’s good, you just have to look

Even in the darkness, there is light.

In this space last week, we discussed a difficult series of recent events. For the nation, it’s been that kind of year.

But we should make sure to not just focus on those difficulties.

It’s not unusual to hear someone say, “I wish the newspaper would print … the radio station would share … the TV reports would publicize … more ‘good’ news.”

We’d argue that it’s already there. You just need to pull yourself away from the tragic long enough to read, hear or see it.

Take Jay County for example.

There has been murder, suicide, arrests, etc.

But there has also been plenty of what readers would classify as “good” news.

In the last month we’ve had stories about:

•State funds being approved to expand the library in Pennville

•A Jay County High School senior making his first solo flight

•The renovation of Fort Recovery State Museum

•A contract being awarded for the renovation and expansion of Arts Place

•Little Free Libraries popping up in Dunkirk and Fort Recovery

•A rural Jay County 19-year-old who bought a firetruck

•A new restaurant opening in Dunkirk

•The longtime Jay County High School cheerleading coach returning after a six-year hiatus

•Scholarships and grants awarded by The Portland Foundation

•A carnival set up for the first time in conjunction with the Tri-State Antique Engine and Tractor Show

•The successful move of Portland Farmer’s Market to a new site

•A new pastor at a local church

•Dunkirk signs being cleaned up by a local Boy Scout for his Eagle Scout project

Today’s front page features a story about a new coffee shop and bakery in Portland. And our upcoming docket includes stories about a mural being painted in Dunkirk, benefits for several local causes, another Eagle Scout and another coffee shop opening.

So, yes, there is “bad” news in the world. There’s no stopping that.

But there are also plenty of good things happening in our community, nation and world.

Sometimes, we just have to look. — R.C.