Pitching in after the storm
THUMBS UP: Kudos to everyone - from neighbors, to area volunteer firefighters, to emergency personnel - who helped in clean-up efforts in cities around the region after last Friday's storm that left plenty of damage behind in numerous cities. A good example of the spirit of community and helping out could be found in Tyler on Monday when firefighters from Tracy, Balaton, Garvin and other cities made the trip to Tyler - on the 4th of July no less. Nature's worst tends to bring out the best in people, and folks from southwest Minnesota have proven that during the last week. For everyone who took personal time to pitch in, your efforts during a difficult time are appreciated.
Independent commission
SIDEWAYS THUMBS: The commission that has been put together to help end the state's shutdown is a good idea, but gets a sideways thumbs until they prove they can do so in a non-partisan manner. If this group can, indeed, come up with a fair solution that will open the state back up for business and do so without worrying about any potential political backlash, if they can put the hurting residents of Minnesota first, they should be commended.