Autism Speaks

Thumbs-up to Thorne Grigsby and his family who conducted a fundraiser — with the support of the Voss family — this past Saturday in Seymour in support of autism awareness and Autism Speaks, an organization that encourages people to “Light it up blue” to shine a light on autism. When he was in kindergarten, Thorne was diagnosed with autism. Autism spectrum disorder refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication and by unique strengths and differences, according to autismspeaks.org. April is Autism Awareness Month.

Donating life

Thumbs-up to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department for partnering with the Indiana Donor Network to raise awareness about donating organs and tissue.  April is designated as Donate Life Month, and officers are spreading the word by wearing a pin on their uniform this month. A Donate Life flag, signed by employees of the department, also will be flown outside the the sheriff’s department in Brownstown. The flag will be returned to the Indiana Donor Network headquarters in Indianapolis in May.

No dog days here

Thumbs-up to Ruth Myers of Seymour for donating $400 for the purchase of a bulletproof vest for Ace, Seymour Police Department’s only K-9 officer. Myers decided to donate the money she had saved by working overtime after someone “paid it forward” for her doggy day care services at K-9 Campers in Seymour. Ace’s partner is Cpl. Adam Surface, who was able to purchase the vest at a discounted rate.

No dumping

Thumbs-down to people who dump their unwanted appliances and other household items, including mattresses, along streets and roads instead of disposing of them properly. Such actions ultimately cost everyone who pays taxes when city and county workers have to pick them up.

No reason to steal

Thumbs-down to those who steal a vehicle belonging to another person just because it’s there. The bottom line is there is never a reason to take something that does not belong to you.