Thumbs up: To the Greater Mankato Area United Way, the Mankato Clinic Foundation, businesses and others for coming up with emergency funding for VINE, the faith-based agency that helps the elderly live independently. VINE recently lost about one quarter of its funding when a state grant was not renewed.

VINE clearly has been steadfast in its efforts to help the area elderly with everything from yard work to rides to medical appointments. The group has helped hundreds of area residents in big ways, as evidenced by the outpouring of support and stories from those who have been assisted.

Individuals and other businesses donated another $35,000. VINE has in the last few weeks been given some $70,000 in donations to help fill the loss of $239,000 in state funding.

VINE is a worthy cause and important organization to the area’s seniors. The generosity of groups and individuals deserves recognition.

Let public see their court system

Thumbs up: To those continuing to push for better camera access in courtrooms.

A news media coalition is again asking the Minnesota Supreme Court to make it easier to have cameras in courtrooms.

Since 1983, cameras can be allowed in courtrooms but only if the judge, prosecution and defense all agree. It’s extremely rare that all agree.

The media coalition is asking the court to follow the lead of 35 other states that make it easier to allow cameras during court proceedings.

Opponents argue victims or witnesses might be reluctant to report crimes if they think they could be on camera during a later trial.

The fears are misplaced. There is no evidence in other states that people report crimes any less because of cameras in courtrooms.

The fact is cameras in the courts have not disrupted the proceedings or led to any injustices. What they do is allow the public to be able to see what goes on in their court system.

Citizens have every right to easily see how their court system works or doesn’t work. Cameras are one of the best and easiest ways to accomplish that.

Recycling at its finest

Thumbs up: To the ReBike organization, whose mission is to refurbish cast-off bicycles and sell them for reasonable prices. The ReBike shop has just moved to a new location at 323 N. Second St., near the former armory.