High Points of the Valley (Graphic Illustration)

* U.S. Sen. Jim Justice, R-W.Va., made an important statement last week regarding our state elected officials’ focus on religious vaccine exemptions for school-age children. “I think it’s plain out-and-out nuts. That’s all there is to it,” Justice said. “These vaccines are proven in every way. You know where I stood when I was your governor in regards to the vaccines. President (Donald) Trump stands right with me in regard to the vaccines today … If we don’t watch out here, we’re going to turn around three or four times and we’re going to end up with a bad event.” Understanding the dangers of disregarding the will of the people and their elected representatives — who have already stood firm on the importance of vaccines in keeping our kids safe — is not a “liberal position.” It’s simple common sense. While Justice expressed his hopes that Gov. Patrick Morrisey would “get our state moving in the right direction” on the matter, he was right to add “From the standpoint of how I feel about the vaccines … I feel that we have got to listen to the medical professionals. They need to guide us. That’s all there is to it.”

* Federal funding through the Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant and Substance Use Site-based Program has been awarded to two local organizations: the Mid-Ohio Valley Fellowship Home, for community-based services for people with substance use disorder who are on probation, parole or supervised release to reduce recidivism and advance rehabilitative services; and Westbrook Health Services, to fund a regional Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion program director and peer recovery support specialists. Such funding will be important in keeping up the momentum. It is encouraging to know our local groups have earned federal trust enough to part of making it happen.