Appropriate gesture
The city’s decision to erect a sign at the west-side entrance to Columbus was a thoughtful and appropriate decision in an effort to honor native son Mike Pence, who was sworn in as the 48th vice president of the United States on Friday.
Pence has carved a notable political career, serving 12 years as a congressman and one term as Indiana’s 50th governor, and now rising to second in command of the country.
Columbus has signs for the Four Freshmen of musical fame, and auto racing champion Tony Stewart. Pence is deserving of such as spot at the city’s entrance, too, because — like the others — he has helped bring recognition to the community.
Great grad efforts
Three area high schools can celebrate having 100 percent graduations rates for 2016: Hauser, Columbus Christian and Trinity Lutheran. Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp. public high schools (North and East) averaged 90 percent.
While some people can dismiss standardized test scores for various reasons, there’s no denying the value of earning a high school diploma. Kudos for the perfect scores — and for the larger high schools for continuing to work on aspiring for that.
Animal shelter good idea
Kudos to Hope for opening its first permanent animal shelter and naming it after a dedicated local woman, the late Paula Pollitt, who loved animals and advocated for such a facility.
This move is a win-win for the community. The shelter provides a place to take unwanted or stray animals, and its mission of adopting animals gives them a second chance for a good home, and the opportunity for a family to find a new pet.