THUMBS UP: Local graduations are underway. Robeson Community College graduated more than 300 students last week. The University of North Carolina at Pembroke presented 1,077 graduates on Friday. And local high schools will stage graduations in the coming days. These are significant events that deserve praise.

THUMBS DOWN: COVID-19 cases increased in the last week in Robeson County. The disease also claimed the life of another resident. While cases remain low throughout the region, this uptick is a reminder that we are not free of the pandemic yet. We encourage residents to continue pandemic safety practices — including getting immunized.

THUMBS UP: The board of trustees for Robeson Community College has extended Melissa Singler’s contract as the college’s president for another year, praising her for her job performance. We congratulate Singler as well, and look forward to more good things to come at the community college.

THUMBS DOWN: Voting turnout was lower than hoped for on Tuesday. We encourage residents who did not vote in the primary election to set a goal in the general election in November.

THUMBS UP: After a late start due to inclement weather, the Dance of the Spring Moon Powwow hosted by the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina returned over the Mother’s Day weekend after a two-year hiatus.

THUMBS DOWN: Gasoline prices continue to creep upward, thanks mostly to crude oil prices. While North Carolina drivers are paying less than most of the rest of the country, the high price of gasoline is straining family budgets.

THUMBS UP: Robeson County commissioners got a look at the county’s spending plan on Monday. The budget, which is not yet approved, would be close to last year’s budget and would contain no tax increases to local residents.

THUMBS DOWN: Vandals struck several businesses in Lumberton overnight Thursday, damaging property and requiring repairs. There is no place for these kinds of thoughtless acts.

THUMBS UP: The City of Lumberton has begun planning for the return of the Family Fourth Celebration in July and a Juneteenth celebration. Depending on COVID-19 cases, the city has moved forward for these community events.

THUMBS DOWN: Law enforcement agencies are challenged by a lack of staff. Robeson County Sheriff Burnis Wilkins told The Robesonian there are 24 vacancies within the Robeson County Detention Center and about six sheriff’s deputy vacancies. He also said several employees have retired and more plan to retire within the next month.