Archive: Opinions

Words have power. A phrase, such as "Make America Great Again," can be heard by differing constituencies in vastly different ways, engendering pride or leaving some people feeling insulted.

I appreciate Dan Veaner for writing the editorial in the 10/13 Lansing Star about "Name Calling" and hope that this dynamic can stay out of our community conversations going forward.

Additionally I want to let residents know that the use of the word 'Testimonials' in my campaign materials was never in the slightest meant to convey an "Endorsement." My wife is an editor and we specifically created distinct sections in presenting those two kinds of information, shared by those who know me.

Trust is a precious commodity; hard earned through working alongside each other on common goals and sometimes easily lost.
Based on over 50 years in Tompkins County, I'm proud to stand on my record of literally 1000's of trusting relationships, from being an Ithaca Journal and Cornell Daily Sun paperboy going door-to-door to 'collect' every Friday night and being a Boy Scout for 7 years, to the past 40 years as a professional in the community serving the public in a variety of roles.

As we continue to build community for the next 200 years of Lansing's history, may we grant our neighbors the benefit of the doubt if we hear something that seems contrary to what we know about someone, and ask first, before jumping to conclusions. Former President George W. Bush gave a speech on Thursday, Oct. 19th about bridging the divisiveness in our country, emphasizing civic-mindedness and building trust as 2 key components of a way forward.

I'm excited, proud and honored to be a candidate to represent ALL 7,500 Town of Lansing (District 6) residents on the Tompkins County Legislature and ask for your vote on Tuesday, November 7. Public service is my passion and my calling.

Michael Koplinka-Loehr
Candidate for Tompkins County Legislature, District 6 (most of the Town of Lansing)
Lansing, NY
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