Editorials

Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down

UP: To the Tender Defenders , who won first place in the core values portion of the First LEGO League Razorback Open Invitational. Coach K.C. Doepker said it was the award for which the team had hoped, because of the emphasis placed on community outreach. "We impacted over 750 kids this season and mentored a lot of rookies," team member Lilly Pfeifer said. "It felt unexpected," team member Hayden Carey said about winning. "I didn't think we were going to win, because we're just this small team from West Virginia." "Just for perspective, from a U.S. standpoint, teams have a 1.25% chance of making it to an international invitational," Doepker said. "It's very difficult to achieve. Not only getting invited but then to win first place is pretty exceptional." Never underestimate a small team from West Virginia. Well done, folks.

UP: To the Parkersburg & Wood County Public Library's upcoming Wood County History Scavenger Hunt, in partnership with the West Virginia University at Parkersburg Foundation. The June 12 event will combine an on-site hunt at the Oakland Estate with a deep dive at the Emerson Avenue library branch to learn more about the turnpikes and railroads that helped build Parkersburg. What a fascinating way to keep kids learning and engaged in their community.

UP: To news that officials have found a way to use the site at 4632 Spruce Rise Road to help some of our most vulnerable children, as it is expected to become short-term housing for children and teens in the custody of the state. And bravo to Delegate Vernon Criss, R-Wood, for suggesting to Department of Health and Human Resources officials that the property become a "safe haven" for children waiting to be placed with a foster family. "This safe haven approach will enhance safety and mitigate stress on youth who deserve the best given their circumstance," said Parkersburg Mayor Tom Joyce. Good.