Editorials

Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down

UP: To the Humane Society of the Ohio Valley and a grant from Rescue Rebuild, through which renovations will make it possible for some victims of domestic violence to remain connected to their pets. Once renovations are complete, HSOV will reach out to EVE Inc., which connect them with women or men who have left domestic violence situations but have been unable to keep their pet with them while they are living at the domestic violence shelter. It is an important project -- recognizing the importance of helping a person AND a pet escape a dangerous situation. HSOV officials and Rescue Rebuild are to be commended for getting it done.

UP: To Leroy "Butch" Hawkins, who is set to be honored for 75 years in Scouting, including 65 years at Camp Kootaga as a leader of Troop 203. Boy Scouts of America Kootaga District Buckskin Council is fortunate to have such a dedicated leader in its ranks.

UP: To newly appointed State Superintendent of Schools Michele Blatt, who was named to replace the resigning David Roach. Blatt has the support of state board members, Gov. Jim Justice, the Legislature, teachers and school service personnel, according to state Board of Education President Paul Hardesty. "We have a great system of support in our counties, and we are ready to move education forward in this state and know that it will take a team approach and that we need everyone on board with us to do what's right for the kids in West Virginia," Blatt said. West Virginians are ready for that, too; and we ready to watch Blatt help make it happen.