This is always a hopeful time, as we celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of another. And while 2009 was difficult for many Americans, we must also look back on this year with the knowledge that brighter days are ahead of us.

 Ohio Governor Ted Strickland has released the following

It is hard to believe that this was the last newspaper article that I wrote for the decade. Much has happened to all of us over the past 10 years and it has passed by much too quickly. For those of you who can remember, it was 10 years ago right about now that many of us were worried about the dreaded Y2K virus and what was going to happen to all of our computer systems when the calendars rolled over to the year 2000. That seems like a minor concern with everything going on today, doesn’t it?

Outlining the history of the South Central Ohio Athletic League has been an interesting project. So far, we have covered the time period from 1923-68. The plan is to continue to about 2000. This week, though, I am taking a break from researching the history of the league to take a look at the relative values of high school athletics, and the influence of coaches on the kids who participate in their programs.

In putting together the pages of the first 2010 edition of Highland County’s only locally owned and locally operated newspaper, one thing occurred to me right from the get-go: It is far easier for a one-digit typist to type 2009 than it is for him to type 2010.

WILMINGTON – The Clinton County YMCA, in collaboration with CMH Regional Health System, is hosting a 12-week weight loss and healthier living program called “Healthier Community.”

We, at the Leesburg Library, hope everyone had a blessed holiday season and we wish you all a prosperous New Year!

Army Pvt. Joshua L. Florence has graduated from the Infantryman One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga.

Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland has announced the State of Ohio was awarded a $1.8 million federal grant to help implement the Strickland administration’s plan to compile and map broadband availability in Ohio, including location, available speed and type of technology delivering the service.