Thumbs down: to the attention many of us gave to Tuesday's State of the Union address by President Barack Obama. A national poll indicates that this was the least-watched major speech of Obama's presidency, and an informal poll by the Watauga Democrat shows that result mirrored in the High County. Whether you are a Republican or Democrat, whether the speech was campaign fodder or state address, how can we help shape our nation and make informed choices sans information? 

Thumbs up: to a winter celebration now ongoing. Blowing Rock's WinterFest is full steam ahead through Sunday. After all, winter is winter in the High Country no matter how much snow is on the ground or where the mercury hovers. Many of the activities, such as the chili cook-off and the polar plunge, are unique offerings for our region. Visit http://blowingrocket.com for a full schedule.

Thumbs up: to the tremendous legacy left behind by the late Jim Greene, whose voice reached our region in broadcasting, sports announcing and ministerial work. Many of us once began the day with Greene as he cracked open our mornings at 6 a.m. with the news and weather of the day, broadcasting on AM radio. His work certainly didn't end there, and the lives he touched with the power of his voice are innumerable. Jim Greene once said he wanted his legacy to be impacting and changing “people's lives.” He succeeded.