High Points of the Valley (Graphic Illustration)

* It’s a course many adults likely wish they had been able to take as students, but West Virginia Central Credit Union’s Mad Money financial literacy program is designed to teach today’s middle schoolers the realities of budgeting (and maybe give them a little sympathy for the adults in their life next time they ask for some cash). When Jackson Middle School seventh graders took part last week, they learned a great deal about carefully choosing how to spend money. “I really liked it. It taught me about budgeting and how to save and what my parents really go through,” said seventh-grader Mason Lotton. Of course, budgeting and responsible money management cannot be learned in a day, but courses such as Mad Money set students off in the right direction as they make their way. It’s hard to put a price on that.

* West Virginia’s Department of Health Services has recognized Ellisha Seabolt as its Substance Use Disorder Peer Recovery Support Specialist of the Year. Seabolt is the founder of addiction support organization Freedom Fighters Inc. in Parkersburg and a peer recovery support specialist at St. Joseph’s Recovery Center in Parkersburg. She is a recovering addict herself, and the Freedom Fighters organization supports Narcan distribution and housing case management, helping thousands of people. Seabolt says that group can be contacted “Anytime. 24-7,” and it is likely that kind of dedication that helped her earn this year’s honor. “This recognition reflects our mission to expand opportunity, strengthen recovery pathways, and improve outcomes for individuals and families affected by addiction,” Secretary Alex Mayer of the Department of Human Service said. Congratulations — and thank you — to Seabolt and all those making that happen.