Between the state budget, shaky economy, crime, plane crashes and celebrity deaths, we have been inundated with bad news lately. So we decided to give our readers a respite with today's editorial - as well as reassurance that all the news isn't bad.

Like the old Anne Murray song said, "We sure could use a little good news today." So here it is:

• Three hundred students were honored June 29 at a Minority Academic Achievement Recognition ceremony, sponsored by Illinois Wesleyan University, State Farm Insurance Cos. and the Neighbor-to-Neighbor Educational Activity Club.
• Illinois Wesleyan University's Shirk Center was filled with family and friends of these young people, who already are living the words of the night's speaker, Pastor William Bennett of City of Refuge Church of God: "If you try, you can. If you believe, you will."
• The American Cancer Society Relay for Life of McLean County, the largest Relay for Life event in Illinois, surpassed last year's record of $580,000 by raising $602,582 this year.
• About 1,700 people in 146 teams walked around the track around the clock at Normal Community West High School, with at least one member from each team on the track between noon June 26 and noon June 27.
• Communities throughout Central Illinois have festivals that depend on lots of volunteer help before, during and after the event. This weekend, thousands of us enjoyed Independence Day celebrations - large and small - that owed a huge debt to volunteers.
• Recruiting volunteers can be difficult. For awhile, it looked as if the long-standing Saybrook Freedom Festival would have to be canceled this year. But, as outlined in a letter to the editor from Mayor Patrick Lewis, people stepped to the plate when the risk became known. The response to that call for help made this year's Freedom Festival on June 28 that much sweeter.
• Speaking of letters to the editor, we frequently print letters from people thanking strangers for coming to their aid after a traffic accident or fall and even anonymously paying for meals. It's good to be reminded of the kindness that exists in our community.
• Sometimes coming to someone's aid involves risking or even sacrificing one's life. Although there is no one from The Pantagraph area on the list, we salute the latest to be named Carnegie Heroes. Of 22 honored this year, four died in the attempt. To read the inspiring stories, check out www.carnegiehero.org.

When the bad news of the day gets you down, remember these people - and others you know - who make our communities and nation a better place through their efforts.