Thumbs up to the mayors and councilors of Biddeford and Saco, who were inaugurated at ceremonies last week. For both cities’ mayors, the inauguration was a formality as they stepped into a second term. Both Mayors Joanne Twomey and Roland “Ron” Michaud have seen some political successes in the past years and we wish them continued success.

Thumbs up to the directors of the new Regional School Unit 21, made up of Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Arundel, who have set aside their former separate distinctions to come together as one board and focus on what’s best for the district’s schoolchildren.

Thumbs up to York County Finance Director Victoria Ridlon for her preparation of a tax anticipation note package that was good enough to solicit bids from local banks. The local bids and lower interest rates will result in a significant savings for these loans, which hold us over until taxes come in each year.

Thumbs up once again to Denise Fecteau, organizer of the Christmas Year Round free gift giveaway. Each year, she collects toys and other gifts for families to choose from for holiday gift-giving and then dedicates an entire week during the Christmas season to organize the items and provide opportunities for people to “shop.” Her dedication makes a real difference in people’s lives.

Thumbs up to the Lebanon Rescue workers, neighbors and Maine State Trooper Ben Smith who all responded to help out a 2-year-old boy who nearly drowned in the Little River, Friday, Dec. 4. Their quick response and performance of CPR undoubtedly saved the boy’s life and rescue workers are looking forward to a visit from him once he recovers.

Thumbs up to the organizers and participants in Sanford’s Holly Daze, the Biddeford downtown Holiday Festival, and Christmas Prelude in Kennebunk and Kennebunkport. These festive events give everyone a stronger sense of community, a warm feeling in the spirit of the season and a chance to check out and support their downtown business districts.

Thumbs up to Biddeford dentist Joseph Kenneally and others who are involved in the planning or have volunteered their time for soon-to-be-opened free dental clinic. The clinic will serve those who already use the Free Clinic in Biddeford for medical needs and is sorely needed to address dental issues for the uninsured.

— 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.