To area students who have stepped up this year and helped work blood drives at their schools. In some cases, those very students donated blood as well.

They are filling a vital need in the community and showing once again that the youth in this area understand, at an early age, contributing to their community and society at large is a vital part of being a productive citizen.

If today’s teens are tomorrow’s leaders, this is another indication that we will be in good hands.

*****

To all the Surry County employees who were recognized Monday night by the board of commissioners for their work — some for having been there as long as 25 years.

The board periodically recognizes employees on significant anniversaries — such as the fifth, 10th, 25th — and to see that many employees who have stayed the course for so long says a lot about those people.

Working in public service is no picnic. Oftentimes similar jobs in the private sector pay more. Thus, these folks should all be congratulated for dedicating their professional lives to serving our community.

*****

To area tourism officials who worked hard to make sure the participants in the Horseless Carriage Tour were accommodated and that those in the area who wanted to see the cars and visit with the owners got that opportunity.

Bringing groups like the antique car owners to the area helps the local economy and makes for great admiring opportunities at the same time.

*****

To the ladies of Pleasant View Baptist Church who took time out of their day and provided a feast of food for the Mount Airy Police Department personnel in thanks for all the officers and other staff members do for the community.

It is a wonderful thing when members of the community take time to show gratitude for the often-times unseen protection and service our officers provide the residents.