High Points of the Valley (Graphic Illustration)

* A partnership between the Highmark West Virginia Charitable Fund for Health and Vandalia Health Network InComm Healthcare has been so successful, the collaborative is expanding it. The Healthy Neighborhood program addresses food insecurity in 45 West Virginia counties by providing pre-funded InComm health benefits cards that can be used solely to purchase healthy and nutritious food items. During the three-year pilot phase, the most frequently purchased items included eggs, milk, bread, water and proteins, indicating the program was having a positive impact on families’ nutritional needs. Now Highmark is making another $1 million commitment to the program. “At Highmark, we understand that true health extends far beyond clinical care – it’s deeply rooted in the fundamental aspects of daily life. Healthy Neighborhood’s integrated approach connects people with vital resources, fostering improved health and empowering them to take control of their well-being,” said Nebeyou Abebe, senior vice president, social health, at Highmark Health. “Beyond making tangible health differences in the lives of individuals and families in the most rural areas of the state, this program illuminates the power of innovative, multifaceted partnerships.” Indeed, here’s hoping the program’s success inspires similar efforts across the state.

* The Chamber of Commerce of the Mid-Ohio Valley hosted a combined State of the Chamber program, annual awards ceremony and Leadership MOV graduation last week, with Chamber President and CEO Jill Parsons highlighting the organization’s mission to “celebrate, communicate and connect.” Gribble Roofing was named new business of the year; Peoples Bank received the community impact award; property improvement awards went to WVU Medicine Camden Clark Southgate Medical Complex, Flanagan’s Place and Smith and Company Vintage Market; Brian Brady of WSI Digital Marketing and Vijay Shah of West Virginia University at Parkersburg were named Chamber Champions; Sydnie Beall of the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport is emerging business leader of the year; and Ryan Taylor of Pickering Associates is business leader of the year. Congratulations, folks. And thank you for all you do for our communities.