High Points of the Valley (Graphic Illustration)

* Lawmakers and other public officials responsible for maintaining West Virginia’s financial health are to be commended for the B grade earned from Truth in Accounting, for the 2023 fiscal year. “West Virginia, like most other states, improved its financial condition in 2023,” according to the report. “This is a positive development, and Truth in Accounting applauds the state’s commitment to improving its financial solvency.” Among the reasons for the relatively good grade are available tax revenue surpluses and a Rainy Day Fund. Therefore, the Truth in Accounting report included a reminder in its summary: “Although West Virginia ended its 2024 fiscal year in strong financial health…market fluctuations in pension values, coupled with uncertainty around inflation and employment, make it challenging to predict the future resources needed to sustain government services and benefits. In light of these uncertainties, it’s reassuring that the state has retained funds to cover its financial obligations.” Surely next year’s crop of elected and appointed officials will take note.

* For the folks at Legacy Nursing Home, a partnership among Artisan Cosmetology School, Community Givebacks in Loving Memory of Jim/Evelyn Lenhart and Wanda Padgitt, Fox Den Salon, REACH and Warren Elementary School meant a day of pampering and beauty. “We had five stylists and 20 students come from the cosmetology school and they donated their time to offer free haircuts,” Erin Padgitt said last week. Residents also got hand massages, nail trims and painted nails; the chance to create a craft; and Community Givebacks helped maintain and fill bird feeders across the property. There were even some sweet treats on hand to be enjoyed. “Hearing them talk to one another and compliment each other I think just really made them feel loved,” said Padgitt. What a wonderful day, and a wonderful gift. Well done.