Importance of mentoring

In recognition of January as National Mentoring Month, Mayor Dean Harris presented a proclamation Tuesday to the Youth Mentoring Network, a program offered by Youth Services System Inc. Previously known as Big Brothers, Big Sisters Ohio Valley, Youth Mentoring Network provides children facing adversity with a professionally supported one-on-one relationship to enhance their lives in an effort to empower youth to make positive life choices. Mentors and mentees spend at least four hours each month together through the program. Taking part in presentation are, from left, Harris; Ashley Flaherty, of Youth Services System; and Assistant City Manager DeeAnn Pulliam. — Craig Howell