The gift of life

Thumbs-up to those who find the time and make the effort to donate blood, especially this time of year when the need is much greater and donations decrease because of vacations and outdoor activities.

Remembering those who served

Thumbs-up to the organizers of the Freetown July Festival for remembering the nine men from Freetown who put their lives on the line for their county during World War I. One of them — Everett Rose — died while serving in the war also known as the “War to end all Wars,” while a second — Ernest Everett Garloch — was injured and left for dead until being found alive by someone a few days later. Frank Buckles of Charles Town, West Virginia, was the last veteran from that war to died. He passed away at the age of 110 on Feb. 27, 2011.

On top

Thumbs-up to the members of the Brownstown Brave Wave swimming team for their recent victory in the South Central Conference meet at Mitchell.

Thumbs-up to those who were recognized during the Brownstown Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner July 11 at Pewter Hall. The list includes Teen Citizen of the Year, Mackenzie Bennett; Outstanding Citizen of the Year Darlene Butt; Outstanding Chamber Member of the Year, Brownstown Hardware; and Teachers of the Year, Robin Perry (high school); Karen Ault (middle); and Margo Burnside (elementary).

Patriotic performers

Thumbs-up to Molly Hayes, Jordan Richart and Lela Hendley for providing the music for the city’s 12th annual Music in the Park on the Fourth of July at Shields Park in Seymour. The event provides young musicians with a way to showcase their talents.

Messy

Thumbs-down to those who celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks and then fail to clean up the debris left behind on streets, roads and sidewalks. A related thumbs-down to those who aren’t careful about where they aim their fireworks.

Pushy

Thumbs-down to speeding motorists who are in such a hurry that they have to tailgate others in an effort to let them pass or also speed.