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Thumbs up for remembrance. As in years past we are bolstered by those who turn out on Memorial Day this past Monday to honor those who gave their lives in defense of our nation. It shows a real reverence on such an important day, but there is always hope for more and in the years to come we would love to see many more people who can be added to those who continue to honor this day.

Thumbs down for abrupt endings. The notice came across early this morning that due to potential threat the district received, the Austin Public School District would bring the school year at Ellis Middle School and IJ Holton Intermediate School to an early close with the canceling of the last day. At its base, very little is accomplished on the last day as students look forward to the summer, but it is a chance for these students and teachers to say goodbye and robs both sides of a meaningful end to the school year. We don’t know the nature of the threat — whether it was meant in seriousness or if it was just a ploy to bring the year to an end early through an unsubstantiated threat. Whatever the reason, it’s a shame that this is how the season ends for these two schools.

Thumbs up for state qualifiers. Track and golfers from our area have already secured their paths to their respective state tournaments and regarding baseball, with three of our area teams still playing, it’s every bit as possible that we will have a baseball team going to its state tournament. So congratulations to all those who will be playing and competing at the next level in a few days. It’s an achievement not to take lightly.

Thumbs up for continuing success. This week it was announced that the Austin Online Academy saw a resounding spike of graduates this year and has proven to be another tool in the tool box of student success. It’s important to realize that for some students, reaching this success comes with hurdles in a variety of areas, so understanding that AOA is meeting  an important need helps ensure that success stays within reach of students wanting to reach their highest potential.

Thumbs up for garden clubs. For small towns, keeping a town looking sharp and beautiful could become a bit of a challenge depending on staffing levels, which is why the LeRoy Garden Club’s work in helping give their community that sparkle is so very important. It should never be taken for granted the work of these clubs in their smaller communities, because it becomes vital in putting out the welcome mat to those visiting their towns.