Thumbs up
Angels
Thumbs-up to everyone who supported — either with money or wrapping and delivering presents — the annual Sertoma Christmas Miracle this year. Donations from individuals, businesses, work places, clubs and service organizations, schools and others allowed the Sertoma Club of Jackson County to serve 280 families with 713 children across the county through the program which started in 1972. Donations of toys through Angel Trees and monetary donations along with donated blankets, hats, and gloves helped the club ensured there was help for those in need this Christmas season.
A similar thumbs-up to everyone who donated money to the annual Christmas Basket fund, which provides food for individuals and families across the county. Nearly $11,000 was donated to the fund, established by veterans returning home from World War II 71 years ago. The project is sponsored by American Legion Post 89 in Seymour in partnership with Jay C Food Stores, Jackson County Bank and The Tribune.
A hand up
Thumbs-up to Derrick Koch, a guidance counselor at Brownstown Central High School, and other staff members with the school corporation who recently revived the community food pantry to help students, their families and others in the community who have a need for food. Personal hygiene items also are distributed during the pantry, which is open from 4 to 6 p.m. on the second Monday of each month.
Leader on the court
Thumbs-up to Seymour’s Jessica Lucas for being named to American Volleyball Coaches Association’s All-America Honorable Mention team for the third year in a row. The Western Kentucky junior helped lead her team to a 30-2 record before falling to Boise State in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. She also was named C-USA setter of the year for the second straight year, averaging 11.49 assists per set, good enough for first in the conference and eighth nationally. Lucas also was named C-USA setter of the week a record-setting seven times this season.
Thumbs down
Left behind
Thumbs-down to people who leave their trash and recycling totes at the curb after they have been emptied.