Arson can be a difficult crime to solve, and often tips from the community are vital in these types of investigations. Thumbs up, then, to everyone who contacted the Jamestown Police Department last weekend with tips into the rash of arson fires that struck Jamestown — particularly the rash of five in the span of a few hours late March 24 and early March 25. It is good to know that our community can come together both in times of tragedy and when it means removing a dangerous criminal from our midst.

Thumbs down to another struggling national retailer closing its doors locally. Following closely on the heels of Radio Shack closing its stores in Dunkirk and Jamestown, the Dunkirk JCPenney location in the D&F Plaza is one of 138 locations nationwide slated for closure. It’s disappointing when stores close, especially in smaller communities, which limits opportunities to shop locally. It’s important for local residents to support our local stores, which employ our neighbors and friends.

Thumbs up to Carol Drake, Jamestown Interclub Council Woman of the Year. Dozens of organizations wouldn’t have run nearly as smoothly over the years without Drake’s steady hand; her list of activities includes serving as past president of the Persell and Jamestown High School PTAs; past president of the JHS Orchestra Music Boosters; communicant of Saints Peter and Paul Church; host for the Rotary Club Exchange Program, the Babe Ruth World Series, Allen Park Women’s Club; Interclub Council; Marvin Community House; The Creche Inc.; Southern Tier Legal Secretaries Association; and the Kiwanis Club. Drake was also a longtime office manager of the Robert H. Jackson Center, where she coordinated many of the programs sponsored by the center as well as oversaw the staff and scheduling of all volunteer activities. Carol Drake is a deserving recipient of the annual Woman of the Year award and a wonderful example of how one person can make a difference in the community.