THUMBS UP AND DOWN

UP: David Gemmill. For acknowledging there's a crack problem in Lindsay. The
federal crown attorney not only acknowledges the problem, but he isn't
afraid to publicly discuss it. Gemmill is also looking for ways to minimize
the impact it is having on users and the community as a whole, something
that speaks volumes in terms of his commitment.

UP: Pastor Ken Gorham. For his compassion for those who are suffering
from addiction. Pastor Gorham, who runs a soup kitchen in downtown
Lindsay, is also not afraid to recognize the problem of crack, and has
sounded the alarm bell. He witnesses first-hand the perils of those
who are living an existence that is fraught with danger and a risk to
their lives.

DOWN: Members of the city's corporate and human resource services
committee. For failing to make a quorum to deal with key issues. Coun.
David Marsh left before the meeting even started. Then, before an
issue on city computers was finished, Coun. Gerald McGregor left,
forcing the committee to adjourn because there was no quorum.

DOWN: The federal Liberals. For taking Canadian taxpayers for fools.
The current scandal over $250 million in sponsorships has rocked
Parliament Hill, and not a minute too soon. Using taxpayers' money to
'buy' loyalty in Quebec after Ottawa nearly lost the 1995 referendum
may have been the way it's been played in La Belle province for
decades, but the gravy train stops here. We simply can't afford it
anymore.