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* Athens County's Baileys Trail System has been completed, giving hikers, bikers, runners and other adventure-seekers an 88-mile system that spans more than 9,000 acres of the Athens unit of the Wayne National Forest. "What began as a vision for trails has become a catalyst for community investment, tourism, and economic growth throughout Appalachian Ohio," said Jessie Powers, executive director of Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia. "The Baileys Trail System represents years of collaboration, and today belongs to everyone who helped bring this vision to life -- from our partners and funders to volunteers, local communities, and the riders, runners, hikers and families who will enjoy it for generations." Well done, to those whose perseverance made it happen.
* Parkersburg Moose Lodge #1118 is hosting a blood drive today (and another in October), and the Red Cross's recently declared blood supply crisis inspired organizers to want to reach out -- not only to let the public know about their own event, so they could fill all the timeslots available, but to encourage readers to seek out whichever local blood donation opportunity suits their schedule. That kind of determination to spot a problem and do something about it should spur more of us to roll up our sleeves, but also to look around at what WE can tackle.
* West Virginia Central Federal Credit Union stepped up this year for Mid-Ohio Valley students by sponsoring free admission to the annual Back-to-School Bash at Discovery World on Market over the weekend. Meanwhile, the Spartan Foundation funded a book vending machine in partnership with Wood County Schools, which the district's director of curriculum, Ashlee Beatty, said increases kids' access to books throughout the year. Community partners are what make the difference when local businesses and nonprofits work to support our kids. Thank you, folks.