DOWN: To the United Steelworkers Local 5668 members who are using the strike against Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood as an excuse for violent and intimidating tactics on the picket line. This week, several individuals on the picket line threw rockjacks into the road, flattening tires of vehicles entering and leaving the plant. And worse, rocks were thrown into the windshield of a truck, injuring a driver. Two men, Robert Mason Sullivan II and Michael Robert Fowler, were arrested and charged with felony destruction of property in this incident. These men should not only be punished to the fullest extent of the law, but they should be fired immediately. If union leadership cannot control its members on the picket line, law enforcement officers should step up enforcement before someone is seriously injured.
UP: To the second annual Rivers, Trails and Ales Festival, being held this weekend in Marietta. The festival is held to encourage residents and visitors to discover Marietta's outdoor activities and its downtown highlights, said RTA Fest organizer Ryan Smith, owner of Marietta Adventure Company in Marietta. This year's event will include several new activities for both paddlers and bicyclists. Later, participants can enjoy several different microbrews and food at area pubs and restaurants.
UP: To people who have purchased tickets for the annual Rubber Ducky Derby, held during the Parkersburg Homecoming. The derby is one of the Homecoming's most popular events, and the tickets purchased are one of the main revenue producers for the event.
DOWN: To the mindless vandalism discovered this past Monday at VanDevender Middle School. Police have video of two men who did the damage and we hope it leads to an arrest and punishment.
UP: To the fundraising concert Thursday by the Lt. Dan Band, featuring actor Gary Sinise. Money from the concert will raise money for Pfc. Kyle Hockenberry's "smart" home. In addition, a thumbs up to the Parkersburg/Marietta Building Trades Association whose members will assist in the building of this home, thus cutting in half the projected $400,000 building cost. Hockenberry was seriously injured on June 11, 2011, while serving in Afghanistan.
