Thumbs down to the voters of School Administrative District 6 for rejecting an interest-free bond for the renovation and expansion of Hollis Elementary School. The district’s $32 million Bonny Eagle High School project is still looming and the voters gave up a chance to save $6 million in interest on a project that needs to be done sooner rather than later.

Hollis Elementary School is undeniably in need of an expansion, with 30 percent overcrowding, and an upgrade, with gym classes still held in a WWII era Quonset hut. It is unbelievable that the voters would choose to pay more in the long run when given a rare opportunity for an interest-free loan. If voters in SAD 6 are not willing to fund renovations interest-free, their decision does not bode well for the proposed $34 million (plus interest) bond proposed for Biddeford High School.

Thumbs up to the firefighters, veterans and others who participated in 9/11 ceremonies Friday to commemorate those who lost their lives on that fateful day of terrorist attacks in 2001. Remembrance ceremonies are important, especially so that children know about the nation’s history, and because history can be so easily forgotten.

Thumbs up to the selectmen of Kennebunk who chose to send a downtown improvement proposal to the voters this November. While the plan is to use TIF funds, which will not directly impact taxes, the voters should still have their say on such a major project that will affect the look of the town.

Thumbs up to the Friends of Old Corner Church, who have dedicated much time and effort to preserving the First Baptist Church in Waterboro for its historical significance to the town. The group held the church’s annual service this past weekend, helping to keep history alive for Waterboro.

Thumbs up to Youth Alternatives Ingraham and the Community Bicycle Center for their interest in using the former Emery School in Biddeford for non-profit family services. The idea of having housing on the top two floors to pay the rent might just make the dream a reality.

Thumbs up to all of those involved in the Community Bicycle Train in Biddeford that accompanies youth who want to ride their bikes to school. Making the trip with them will teach children the right skills for being a safe rider and show them that bicycling is a realistic form of transportation in town.

Thumbs up to the Town Council of Old Orchard Beach for moving toward a contract to have weekly recycling pick-up. Off-week service makes the program more confusing for residents, whereas weekly pickup will encourage people to put out their recyclable items just as they do their trash.

Thumbnails is a Monday feature of the Journal Tribune’s opinion pages. If you would like to respond, please write the Reader’s Forum via e-mail at jtcommunity@journaltribune.com or by dropping your letter off at our Biddeford or Sanford offices.