It was former Sen. Trent Lott, R-Miss, who chose to use the image “herding cats” in the title of the book he wrote to describe his legislative career. It’s an image that also applies — because she did it so well — to 10-year Vicksburg Main Street director Rosalie Theobald.

Harry Sharp, board chairman of the downtown promotional organization, said it best when he said, “Rosalie took over Main Street during a time when downtown was probably in its worse decline ever, and she worked very hard to turn it around.”

To say property owners in Vicksburg’s commercial district have diverse interests is to greatly understate reality. But it’s equally true that they have common interests and common needs — safe, bright, clean public spaces and well-planned special events.

Augmented seven years ago by a major City of Vicksburg investment in redesign, the downtown area has regained vibrancy. But it’s not just due to physical improvements. Theobald’s calm, focused demeanor worked for the common good of stakeholders as well as shoppers and visitors. We’ve reported on many of the conflicts and controversies. Theobald was never distracted. She always responded clearly in stating Main Street’s position, which was always focused on “big-picture” goals.

Indeed, her talents were essential to getting the most return for the money spent on paving, lighting and landscaping.

Theobald has stepped aside, citing the need to focus more time and attention on her health. We wish her well, and also commend Kim Hopkins, who will be her interim replacement.

It’s folly to assume good things “just happen” in communities. Good results follow active, involved leaders too busy with getting things done to sit around and complain. No doubt that for Theobald it was often like herding cats, whose natural tendency is to avoid being herded, but she did it and all of Vicksburg is the beneficiary of her excellent tenure.