– To all the elected public officials taking office this month, some for the first time. Our thoughts are with you as you undertake the most sacred of duties in serving the public. But keep in mind in the coming weeks and months that while you have earned the public’s trust by getting elected, it is up to you to repay that trust through open and transparent operations in your office. Always put the public first in your actions — that’s all people want out of an elected official, someone who not only stands up for them but also keeps them informed of the good and bad. Our best to you in your new endeavor.

– To the outgoing public officials — local, state and federal — who admirably served our state and region over the years. Thank you for all your hard work and your dedication to making life better in the Upper Ohio Valley.

– To the workers and others at American Electric Power who worked earlier this week to restore power to thousands in our area. The high winds that whipped through the area on Monday took out power to thousands of residents, and the work to get it restored deserves a special pat on the back. Thank you for getting the lights on.