UP: To the volunteers who will participate in today's annual Ohio River Sweep. The annual event is in its 23rd year and is sponsored by the Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission, based in Cincinnati, Ohio. The efforts of the volunteers during these two-plus decades have helped make the Ohio River cleaner, and more attractive for the growing number of people using the river for recreation.
UP: To the historical Ohio Chautauqua, which will be in Marietta for a week beginning Monday. Chautauqua offers many historical-related events and music and should be fun for everyone involved.
UP: To the more than 30 area teenagers participating in this year's Camp Broadway at the Smoot Theatre. The students have been part of an intensive effort, culminating in two productions of the Broadway musical, "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying." The students first show was Friday evening, but another will be presented today at 8 p.m. at the Smoot. Call the Smoot at 304-422-7529 for details.
UP: To the annual Mid-Ohio Valley Multicultural Festival, which opened Friday and runs through Sunday at City Park. The 17th annual celebration of diversity offers music, food, exhibits - a fun weekend for all members of the family.
DOWN: To the annual uncertainty the school system's Reduction in Force rules cause for several Wood County teachers and service personnel. This year, 26 teachers and 14 service personnel are wondering whether they will have a job when school opens in August. While many will move into positions created by retirements or transfers, some of the RIF'd employees will not be working in the fall. The RIF list, while necessary to protect seniority, is hard for many, especially younger employees.
