- By Matthew P. Binkewicz
- Opinions
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The end of August brings change to our area. Sports teams have begun to practice. The Summer Concert Series concluded with the lively toe-tapping sounds of the Dixie Kats. There was a better than average crowd at Myers Park last week.
The smell of barbeque filled the air as adults enjoyed their burgers and kids sported ketchup smiles on their faces. Several groups dined on pizza with equal enjoyment. As always, the Ice Cream Man was strategically parked near the pavilion offering kids of all ages a chance to taste the best part of summer fare. I do not believe I have seen children as happy as those walking by with their favorite frozen treat.
The music sent us on a magical escape as the sounds of “When the saints come marching in” floated over the warm hazy air. The entire park seemed to sway in tune with that New Orleans classic. Adults kept beat by tapping their hands to their chairs while children danced in rhythm around each other.
Lansing is a unique community. We are comprised of two separate parcels-the Town and the Village. The political divide creates an invisible physical divide that seems to separate the two communities. Because of this somewhat unusual division, there are few opportunities in which the citizens of each part can come together.
The Lansing Carnival is one event that unites us. Sponsored by the Lansing Fire Department, this three day celebration offers fun, food, and excitement for residents and neighbors throughout the region. The carnival, with its exhibits, parade and fireworks is the informal beginning of summer in Lansing. It is also a time to indulge in funnel cakes, snow cones, and other culinary delights that are normally forbidden.
Another event that brings together our community is the Lansing Harbor Fest. This is the newest summertime festival having been around for five years. The organizers of this one day festival have achieved an award winning combination of music, food, crafts, and contests. Runners, walkers, snackers, and strollers enjoy the beauty of Myers Park and their favorite activity. As with any event in Lansing, food is the center of activity, and Harbor Fest offers a variety of hearty fare.
A suggestion to improve the celebration would be a fireworks display. This would ensure that people stayed later into the evening and listened to the final band while waiting for the nighttime light show. As it stands now, most people leave by 7:00 pm.
Music is a great part of any community, and as I mentioned at the beginning of this piece, the Summer Concert Series offer everyone a chance to come together and hear a wide array of music. Lansing, both parts, is such a terrific place to live. Then final concert of summer reminded me of this at a very basic level.
When the band finished their last song, there was little sign that anyone wanted to leave. A few in the crowd shouted, “Encore!” So the band played a very tender version of “Bye, Bye Blackbird.” The magic of music in the park on a warm summer evening gave all of us a chance to, “Pack up all our cares and woes.” And that is to the point.
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