Our view: Thumbs up, thumbs down

Thumbs up to people having fun together, even when it’s cold or snowing outside. It’s all over the recent issues of the Pine Knot, from the City Meet to the Mojakka Cookoff. Sure, it takes time to organize these things, but the payoff goes way beyond the awards. Turning off the TV and voluntarily joining a group of people, at least some of them strangers, is what community is all about. And we can use more of that.

Thumbs up to well-rounded schools. How great is it that schools in our area are ramping up their vocational offerings and encouraging kids to consider skilled labor? There is an ever-growing need for all kinds of workers who don’t need a college degree, but do need a skillset. On the flip side, high schools are also offering a growing number of classes for college credit, which can decrease higher education costs. We applaud school districts for expanding student options and trying to think outside the box.

Thumbs down to health care costs that create a burden on people during the most stressful times of their lives. People like Tom Getchell and his family should be able to focus on each other and make the most of life without the added stress of wondering how much insurance will cover. This is one “made in America” issue we need to fix, like Paula Williams says on the next page. Pursuit of life, liberty and happiness should include not losing all your savings and your house if you get sick or injured.

Thumbs up to the plow drivers and city workers who have been clearing snow for us all winter. We all appreciate you, and we apologize for giving you the stink eye when you drive by and leave more snow at the end of the driveway. We know you’re doing your job, and we thank you.