CHEERS to a new school year getting underway successfully this past week. All local public schools have resumed classes, with many to participate in football games this evening.

JEERS to word that the Martins Ferry City Building continues to deteriorate. The aging structure has a leaky roof, and at least one employee believes mold has resulted.

CHEERS to Martins Ferry-based Unified Bank on the groundbreaking for its new banking center along National Road in the Woodsdale section of Wheeling. It is great to see a local business grow.

JEERS to news that Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine tested positive for COVID-19 this week. But CHEERS to reports that he is being treated and is able to work remotely from home as he recovers.

CHEERS to four Ohio State Highway Patrol officers who are credited with saving the life of a man suffering a cardiac incident on the side of Interstate 70. Sgts. Rocky Hise and Scott Moore and Troopers Hunter Mahoney and Thaddeus White deserve to be commended.

CHEERS to St. Clairsville City Council for being proactive and beginning to develop contingency plans for future emergencies, such as waterline breaks.

CHEERS to all the teachers who are striving to educate young people day in and day out throughout the school year that is now underway.