High Points of the Valley (Graphic Illustration)

* It is exciting news to learn five commercial air service providers were interested in bidding for a contract with the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport. Companies must understand the importance of adding a service region like ours to their portfolio. “We did receive greater interest than expected,” said Airport Manager Ben Auville. That is wonderful to hear, but it means those of us who value the air service available at our airport have a job to do. Pitches have come in from Contour Airlines, Air Wisconsin, Breeze Airways, Denver Air Connection and SkyWest. Each has different ideas about which services and routes they would make available out of the MOVRA. And the Wood County Airport Authority will need help understanding what passengers want. “If someone has a strong opinion, good or bad, or just (says), ‘I want to go here’ … here’s your opportunity,” Auville said. Take advantage of his encouragement to weigh in by contacting the airport at 304-464-5113 or emailing benjamin.auville@flymov.com. Opinions can also be offered at the board’s next regular meeting at 8 a.m. May 13. While the final decision is up to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the agency will receive a recommendation from our airport authority. Be sure to add your voice to the crafting of that recommendation.

* VanDevender Middle School social studies teacher Stephen Tupitza was honored last week as the Teacher of the Year by the Wood County Board of Education. Director of Curriculum and Instruction Candace Lewis said finalists for the award represented “the very best of what it means to be a teacher,” highlighting their ability to “inspire curiosity, encourage growth, and go above and beyond to ensure every student feels seen, supported, and empowered.” Tupitza is said to be the kind of teacher who shows up for his students beyond the classroom — making students feel valued and understood. “I love all my students,” Lewis read from Tupitza’s entry letter. “I love them for who they are. I love them because they are a person.” How wonderful to know such an educator is helping our students learn and grow. Congratulations!