I AM a big believer in giving back. So is LeBron James. That is where our similarities end. LBJ has a lot more resources to make giving back an impactful happening.

His generosity was again on display Thursday.

King James went to bat for youths with challenging backgrounds in his home city of Akron.

LeBron is making free college education a possibility for such kids. He partnered up with the University of Akron to make that happen. LBJ is guaranteeing a four-year scholarship with the Zips to students in his “I Promise” program who qualify.

The criteria to earn the free ride is as follows: graduate high school within Akron’s public school system, attain standard testing requirements while also fulfilling a community service obligation.

James’ offer will obviously prove the catalyst for many students to focus on the academics and life. LBJ is definitely the King of Akron since returning last summer; consequently the youngsters enrolled in his program will buy into with passion.

He also has unquestioned credibility, coming from a single-parent home to achieve so much success.

Critics may say that LeBron has tons of cash, so this educational commitment is just a ripple on a sea of green.

That may be true. But so do hundreds and hundreds of pro athletes who fail to step to the charity plate. Moreover, Lebron’s undertaking sets the foundation for a life-changing option for youths.

BELLAIRE VFD FEST

THE INAUGURAL Bellaire Volunteer Fire Department Festival opens Thursday continuing through Saturday.

The opening ceremony Thursday at 6 p.m. will be a banner affair. U.S. Congressman Bill Johnson will be the keynote speaker. The Bellaire High band, Mayor Vince DiFabrizio, Bellaire American Legion and Bellaire VFW will also be taking part.

The Taylor Porter Band will provide Thursday night’s entertainment.

Friday’s festivities commence at 5:30 featuring a carnival and the band Twice As Nice performing. At 7 p.m., professional wrestling will be staged in the park.

Saturday starts off in wet fashion as the firefighters’ water battle will begin at 10 a.m. followed by a car show at noon while rides will start at 1. The Taylor Porter Band will perform from 2-5 p.m.

One of the neat attractions of the fest will be the Gulla’s hot-dog eating contest at 5 p.m.

There is no entry fee, and interested eaters can register on site at 4:30.

Matt Vanfossen will provide Saturday night’s musical entertainment.

The VFD festival will also feature a beer garden arena close to the gazebo along with Texas Poker, bingo and a 50/50.

Many local venders have signed up to take part in the festival. The VFD’s goal is to bring the community together.

BUBBA’S BITS

THE POTENTIAL legalization of marijuana will be one of the headliners on Ohio’s November ballot. Voters will decide if they want pot legalized for medicinal and recreational uses. I am OK with marijuana being approved for medicinal reasons but definitely against it for recreational use. Thus, I must vote against the measure.

DONALD TRUMP still sits on top of the Republican presidential nomination sweepstakes. But his colorful talk is wearing thin. The hot candidate is Carly Fiorina, former CEO of Hewlett-Packard. She has done well on the big stage. However, when GOP dusts settles, look for a Jeb Bush-John Kasich ticket.

THE SONS of Italy is one of the best things going in Bellaire. The Sons will be holding Evening in the Courtyard on Saturday, Aug. 22. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. Cost is $30 for members and $35 for non-members. The Benny Provenzano Orchestra is providing the entertainment.

JOE BIDEN needs to end any thoughts of making a presidential run. The vice president is not electable.

KUDOS TO all those who worked to get a sand volleyball court come to fruition in St. Clairsville. The court is located at the south end of Red Devil Stadium in St. C. It is a nice and unique recreation option for local sports enthusiasts.

A COMMODITY flow study will be conducted on Ohio 7 at Aetna Street (between Bridgeport and Martins Ferry) beginning at noon on Thursday. It will continue until noon on Friday. The study is being conducted by the Belmont County Emergency Management Agency/Local Emergency Planning Committee in cooperation with the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Ohio Department of Transportation. The purpose of the study is to determine the quantity and types of hazardous materials being transported on Ohio 7 through Belmont County. The information obtained will be offered to first responders for use in emergency planning.

KUDOS TO the Switzerland of Ohio Board of Education for having the fortitude to hire Mike McVey for a principal’s position. He is a quality individual and superb school administrator. I support the board’s decision.

Kapral may be reached at bkapral@timesleaderonline.com