THUMBS UP: To the 38th annual Flatlander’s Fall Frolic. The day began bright and early with the Dawg-Gone Good Race 5K and one-mile Fun Run. The annual festival, which has become a staple of fall in Downtown Lakeland, attracted visitors from all over South Georgia and North Florida once again featured arts and crafts along with more than 50 vendors. Congratulations also go out to Eryka Fricke, 17, who was named Miss Flatlanders Fall Frolic 2008.

THUMBS UP: To the more than 200 area residents who volunteered their time, muscle and sweat to area United Way agencies during the annual Day of Caring. Volunteers worked throughout the day Friday doing construction, yard work, cleaning, filing, painting and other projects to assist area agencies better serve the citizens of Lowndes and surrounding counties served by the Greater Valdosta United Way.

THUMBS UP: To Echols High School senior Sam Gilbert, who is leaving her artistic mark on campus. Gilbert has already painted four patriotic-themed murals with plans for a fifth at the high school. The passion began her freshman year with help from FCCLA sponsor Karen Stone and the soon-to-be graduate has dedicated many hours after school, giving up other extra-curricular activities in order to leave something memorable behind.