High Points of the Valley (Graphic Illustration)

* Marietta’s Fire Department does not hand out awards lightly, so it is a measure of how deserving Yousuf Algarhy is of recognition that he was honored by the department for saving the life of a 6-year-old boy at the Marietta Aquatic Center last month. Algarhy — an incoming junior at Marietta High School — said it was “just instinct” as he got to the boy, got him above water and then out of the pool. We might add to instinct: vigilance, training and determination. “We’re thankful to get to recognize him,” said Marietta Fire Chief C.W. Durham. “He deserves the recognition.” Indeed, he does. Thank you for your quick actions, young man.

* Memorial Health Foundation has awarded a $5,000 grant to the Boys and Girls Club of Tyler County, which will help fund the club’s summer program. In fact, the money will help 25 young people participate in the program for free. It will also help cover programming, breakfasts, lunches and snacks, field trips and even support staffing. It is encouraging to see such support of a program that will help keep local kids learning and thriving throughout the summer.

* As work on the flood wall mural and other murals throughout downtown Parkersburg continues, July and August will be busy months. But that means local residents are in for a treat, as they have the opportunity to stop by and watch these works come to life. “For people who haven’t seen it before, the size of it doesn’t really hit you until you are standing in front of it,” said Edward Escandon, a representative from the Floodwall Mural Committee. Don’t miss the opportunity.