As we learned from seeing brilliant athletes at the Olympics, there is much inspiration to found in having even a brief glimpse into the passionate interests of others.
You can find opportunities to do that everywhere, if only you pay attention. This weekend, for example, young athletes will be putting their passion for figure skating on display during the competition at Skate Chautauqua at the Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena. You are welcome to stop in any time today. Admission is free and the event concludes at 6 p.m.
We place an exhibit at the Bemus Point Library today in the same realm of creativity and passion. The Southern Tier Woodcarvers have their creations on display from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today.
And speaking of that lovely village by the lake, thumbs up and congratulations to everyone involved in Bemus Point for winning a planning excellence award for the 2012 comprehensive plan. The award from the American Planning Association, Western New York Section, recognizes the work of the village Planning Board, Village Board, and a committee citizens during a two-year stretch to define and adopt a list of things that will enable a laudable and plausible vision for the village to become a reality. It is this, as stated in the strategic plan:
''Our vision is of a community known for its small town charm and enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. A community that has achieved a balance between the economic, social and environmental resources it has been blessed with while respecting its heritage. A community that has maintained a viable downtown core, enhanced its streetscapes, and upgraded its public infrastructure to assure it remains visually appealing and enjoyable for all who visit the community. A community that maintains its family friendly, small town atmosphere by planning for the future, charting a course of action and working together to achieve common goals.''
That's the Bemus Point we all know and love.
Thumbs up to Chautauqua County legislators doing what they need to in order to help the new Runway 7 Restaurant at the county airport be successful.
While county government ought not subsidize private business, we recognize there is a benefit to having a restaurant at the airport - although there are not enough air travelers to support one. The restaurant depends on local customers, too, but summer is a tough season to get people to take the time to drive there for a meal, and so Airport Commission members are on the right track in looking for ways to reduce fixed costs for Runway 7.