Thumbs up to the Times’ new cartoonist, Robert Ariail. A distant relative of Times co-owners, the family of the late John Ariail, Robert’s ’toons are laugh-out-loud funny. Check out this week’s offering on page 24. Ariail has big shoes to fill, as our former cartoonist, Steve Artley, was a master of the craft, but he’s off to a great start.

— Denise Dunbar

Thumbs up to Saturday’s annual Scottish Walk Parade. It’s one of the things that makes Alexandria unique and is a yearly treat. The bagpipes, the clans, the bands, the parade parties and, yes, Mayor Bill Euille in a kilt — what more could anyone want?
— Denise Dunbar

Thumbs up to holiday shopping. Check out the Times’ Holiday Gift Guide for unique gift ideas each week through December.

— Patrice Culligan

Thumbs UP to Ruth Brannigan’s fifth-grade class at Mount Vernon Community School for preparing beautiful Thanksgiving cards, letters and pictures for Senior Services of Alexandria’s homebound seniors. These were delivered on Turkey Day along with a holiday meal, which was sponsored by the Ronald M. Bradley Foundation.

— Patrice Culligan