Thumbs up to Southern Maine Affordable Housing and the Biddeford Housing Authority for redeveloping the convent of the former St. Andre’s Catholic Church in Biddeford into affordable senior housing. Maine has one of the oldest populations in the country, and there is a need for more affordable senior housing in local communities

demonstrated and statewide. The two nonprofit organizations also intend to redevelop other parts of the campus to serve the community. They plan to turn the church, for example, into a center for children to play sports and participate in other enriching activities. When finished, we believe the entire development will greatly enhance the neighborhood.

Thumbs down to recent incidents of graffiti in Old Orchard Beach. Though some may see graffiti as a form of self expression, it is a form of vandalism that damages personal and public property. The police in Old Orchard

Beach are aware of reports and are investigating the matter – and we hope they find the person responsible for the recent rash of graffiti.

Thumbs up to the competition that seems to be, at least partially, fueling the decrease in gasoline prices in the Waterboro and Hollis area, where prices recently dropped below $2.00 a gallon. It is great for consumers and we

hope the lower prices spread to other parts of York County.

Thumbs up for everyone who goes the extra mile to help neighbors and strangers this time of year. There are many out there who can use a helping hand, whether with toys for their kids, food for their table or something else. Perhaps your neighbor just lost a loved one and could

use a cup of coffee and a chat. Perhaps another neighbor needs a ride to the grocery store. We’re all busy this time of year, but make a little time. And when the holiday is over and its January or February and it is snowing, remember the food pantries need food for hungry clients then too, not just on Thanksgiving and Christmas day.

Thumbs up to the officials in the Biddeford School Department who are pushing for renovations at historic Waterhouse Field. The venue desparately needs an update and Biddeford residents should get behind the project. High school football fields are often a special

place in towns and Waterhouse is certainly that. Unfortunately, over the years the bleachers have become worn down – and school officials are worried about public safety. Waterhouse Field has been a fixture in Biddeford since 1929 and hopefully it stays that way for a long, long time. Thumbnails is a Friday feature of the Journal Tribune’s opinion pages. If you want to respond, feel free to write to the Readers’ Forum via e-mail (jtcommunity@journaltribune.com) or by dropping your letter off at our office.