Dear Editor,

I was very much saddened as a result of the recent passing of an outstanding professional and advocate on behalf of the people of our area, former Ohio State Representative Jack Cera of Bellaire.

As a long-time elected, and very successful, state official, Jack, who was a life-long Democrat, who was always willing, whenever necessary, to work with Republican House members in order to get what he thought was best for his constituents, served in the Ohio House of Representatives from 1983-1996, and again from 2011-2020, and in between his terms in office, served as Administrator of federally funded employment and training programs serving Belmont County residents, while employed by the Belmont County Department of Job and Family Services, where he also performed quite well.

In the position that he held in the State House, Jack represented Jefferson, Monroe, Noble, as well as a section of Washington counties, in addiition to his home county of Belmont.

Jack was well known, and highly respected, for his vast knowledge of the area which he served and its people, was a very dedicated and very productive professional, who made himself very accessible to his constituents.

I am very proud to have worked with Jack during his second tenure in the State House, as I had arranged yearly Town Hall meetings featuring Jack in my hometown of Martins Ferry, which were very informative and well attended, and for which I am truly grateful.

During his tenure as a federal training programs administrator for Belmont County, I had the pleasure of working with Jack, as at the time I performed in such a capacity in serving residents of Jefferson County, as both counties were in the same service delivery area.

I am blessed to have known and worked with Jack over the years. He certainly helped make the area an even better place, as a result of his efforts, dedication, and professionalism.

May you rest in peace, my friend.

Richard Hord

Martins Ferry