Archive: Opinions

There are very few positive news stories these days. Recent unrest in the Middle East has captured our attention. Politicians on both sides of the aisle are busy postulating scenarios and outcomes in Tunisia, Egypt, and Yemen as their respective populations demand a government more attuned to their basic needs and concerns.

Our economy continues along its unpredictable course. With rises and falls occurring so often no one can predict if we are heading into another recession, or Americans are simply following sound advice and actually buying fewer items and saving their money.

One bright spot has emerged in the news, at least on the local level. Lansing, the exception to the rule, offers a beacon of hope in the otherwise gloomy realm of news.

Capturing the headlines was an article on the Lansing Fire Department's annual dinner. As a completely Volunteer department, the residents of Lansing are lucky to have such dedicated individuals who are wiling to risk their own safety to ensure the safety of others. As our town's first responders to any fire related emergency, these dedicated men and women provide a layer of security that many of us take for granted.

The fire department also offers educational demonstrations and informational meetings on a wide range of topics from home safety and carbon monoxide detection to guidelines on summer camp fires. In addition to the expected services, area residents looked forward to the Annual Carnival, sponsored by the fire department. This event has become a real tradition in Lansing culminating with the parade and fireworks extravaganza.

Many of us drive by one or more of the four fire stations in our town each day, and we ought to take a moment and offer our thanks to those who provide such a valuable service to our community.

Other news brings more pride to our community. A new hiking trail has opened across from the town balls fields on Auburn Road. The 2.4 mile trail offers residents a chance to walk, hike, ski, and simply stroll along the path and admire the beauty of our region. The opening of the trail marks a symbolic beginning to realizing the dream of a town center. For those who frequent Dunkin' Donuts, they can now take a stroll around the path with virtually little, if any, caloric guilt.

I moved to Lansing eight years ago, and the positive growth and development has earned our town a reputation as being one of the most desirable places to live in the Finger Lakes region. With the new supermarket opening sometime this year, continued improvements at Myers Park and Salt Point, Lansing and its residents ought to be proud of their home town and its future. And that is to the point.

v7i5