Star Herald doles out 'thumbs' for all things good and bad in local communities

It’s time again to review the Rock County Star Herald “thumbs up” and “thumbs down” for local bright spots and disappointments over the past several weeks.
Thumbs up — to local efforts to protect drinking water sources. Gravel is an important economic resource but mining in sensitive areas can lead to water pollution. 
Manure is also an important economic resource, but again we need to protect limited sources of quality water in Rock County.
Thumbs down — to the rapidly deteriorating County Road 4 between Beaver Creek and Luverne. It has some teeth-jarring seasonal bumps, which aren’t a new problem, but one no one seems to want to fix.
Thumbs up — to the return to local examinations for a driver’s license being conducted in Luverne for both the written and behind-the-wheel portions of the license. The absence of a local exam station for the past two years put unnecessary stress (and driving miles) on our citizens.
Thumbs down – to those state officials who thought regional driver’s license exam stations were more efficient. Efficient for whom? Certainly not for hundreds of patrons forced to drive hundreds of miles for a service that’s supposed to be next door.
Thumbs up — to the city of Luverne for investing in the community’s electrical future with the $11 million update of the historic power plant. The price tag is significant and so is the inconvenience of power outages during weather extremes.
Thumbs up — to Hardwick public and private parties who recognized the time had come to demolish a historic structure. The former KJ's Korner Bar had been neglected and become a public hazard. Removing the blight will only lead to better things in the future. 
Thumbs down — to increasing gas prices. In a single day Feb. 2 local stations upped their prices by 15 cents a gallon. The recent wage increases are being quickly swallowed by increases in fuel prices and general inflation.
Thumbs up — to three generation of the Golla family for 74 years in the agricultural business, hardware business, paint store business, pet supply business, equipment rental business, lawn care business, and of course they have always been one of the finest locally owned and operated businesses.
Thumbs up — to the K.A.H.R. Foundation for continued support in our small community. The fixing of the courthouse tunnel frees up funds for other projects, and the alumni garden at the school will further enhance the improvements that have already taken place at the district.
Thumbs up — to the city of Luverne for pursuing funding for the final trail link for The Loop. Having a scenic path to walk, run or ride bike provides residents and visitors alike a perfect place to get outside and exercise.