THUMBS UP: To the Valdosta Police Department for its quick response to the armed robbery at the Firehouse Subs location on North Ashley Street on Tuesday night. An arrest was made just moments after police arrived on the scene. Also, thumbs up to police for making arrests in the Dec. 9 armed robbery of the Hardee’s on South Patterson Street.
THUMBS UP: To the residents of Merriman Court, G.R. Holton, Allan and Pam Williams, Bill and Joanne Halter and Matthew Lindsey for winning the Valdosta-Lowndes County Parks and Recreation Authority’s holiday decorating contest. A total of 27 homes shared their holiday light displays with judges.
THUMBS UP: To everyone who participated in the 17th Annual Outback Riders Toy Run a week ago. More than 2,000 bikes made the journey from the Preferred Outlets at Lake Park to Five Points, each one loaded down with toys for less fortunate boys and girls in the area.
THUMBS DOWN: To Antonio Butler for trying to snag a piece of a $7,000 reward by turning in his two alleged accomplices in a string of Decatur County robberies, according to the Associated Press. The reward was offered by area businesses. Butler is among three teens suspected in the robberies and reportedly admitted to being present when one of them was planned.
THUMBS UP: To area churches, volunteers and, of course, Habitat for Humanity, for helping two families realize their dream of home ownership. India Bell and Ana Lopez both closed on their new homes in time to celebrate the holiday season. The mothers said they are grateful for the opportunity to move their children into safe, clean homes and good neighborhoods.
