The year 2020 was difficult.

That was true for everyone. It includes our students who are involved in athletics and the arts.

Many activities and events were canceled. When they resumed, ticket sales were down because attendance was limit. Fundraising opportunities disappeared.

This weekend provides a chance to help Jay County groups recover.

The Jay County High School choral department’s production of the musical comedy “Pajama Game” continues tonight. It opened Friday, and there is a performance at 7:30 p.m. tonight and another at 2 p.m. Sunday.

Tickets are $6 and will be available at the door. Funds are needed to help ensure that the program can continue to give students the opportunity to perform in musical productions each year.

At 2 p.m. Sunday, the Jay County High School wrestling team will hold a professional wrestling event as a fundraiser at Jay County Fairgrounds. The team is hoping to use the money for new uniforms, warm-up gear and training opportunities.

Tickets are $10 for general admissison.

Beyond those two events, there are plenty of other opportunities to support our youth programs.

The Fort Recovery Local Schools choral department will hold its spring concert at 6 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free.

And we’re about to begin sectional tournaments in Indiana. The girls track, boys track and girls tennis teams will compete in sectionals next week. Softball and baseball will follow a week later.

Support comes in many forms.

The finances are essential. Every ticket you buy helps to give opportunities to students.

But presence is just as important. Taking the time out of your schedule to be there, to cheer, to applaud, to say “good job” is meaningful. It’s those moments that children and teens are likely to remember years down the road.

So, take in a show, enjoy an afternoon of professional wrestling, attend a concert or swing by a sectional event in the coming weeks.

Our arts and athletics programs need your support as we continue to work to put 2020 in our rearview mirror. — R.C.