UP: To all those working to raise funds for the Relay for Life teams, in preparation for the event this coming Friday and Saturday in Wood County. The 25th anniversary celebration is an important opportunity for healing, laughter, support and community-building as we all work to support the efforts of the American Cancer Society in their fight.

UP: To successful completion of the nation’s first blockchain-supported election, carried out right here in West Virginia. Those eligible to vote in Harrison and Monongalia counties under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act were able to cast their ballots on a mobile voting platform that should make it easier for voters — especially members of our military — to participate in our democratic process.

UP: To news from Wood County Development Director Lindsey Piersol that businesses associated with Hino Motors are nearing deals to move onto land surrounding the former Coldwater Creek distribution center in Parkersburg. “You will start to see buildings go up shortly that will go close to the plant,” she said. It is encouraging to hear of the continued economic development efforts bringing new folks to the Mid-Ohio Valley. The rest of us will have to do our best to make those new arrivals feel comfortable and welcomed.