High Points of the Valley (Graphic Illustration)

* Superintendent Jeff Greenley and others in the Belpre City Schools administration are certainly doing the difficult, time-consuming leg work necessary to bring voters’ vision for their children’s futures to fruition. Last week, Greenley told members of the Board of Education about several efforts: meeting with members of the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission, traveling to discuss bond financing with Moody’s in Chicago, transferring money to avoid pitfalls in the Ohio budget bills, contacting U.S. senators about 21st Century Community Learning Centers funding and working on partnerships to help fill the gap if that funding is not restored. Regarding the Facilities Construction Commission, Greenley said “That was a productive meeting, and I expressed to them many times how grateful we were because Belpre could never take on a job like this without them matching the funds and providing the expertise to help us get there.” It’s good to have support. And it’s good to have school administrators — as are in Belpre and all across the Mid-Ohio Valley — dedicated to putting in so much effort for their communities and our kids.

* Recreational (and cooling off) opportunities for local residents continue to improve in our region, with one of the most recent being the completion of upgrades to the Southwood Park pool slide. “We’re proud to celebrate not only this wonderful park amenity, but also the legacy of Mayor Al Smith,” Parkersburg Mayor Tom Joyce said in a release announcing plans for a celebration of completion of the project tonight. “This project represents our commitment to investing in recreational spaces that bring our community together.” Now, let’s hope the rain lets up long enough for families to actually get out and enjoy it!