As Patti Loves Bing quickly approaches its four year anniversary, it seems appropriate for a moment of reflection. Since May 5, 2013, I have written about the many organizations and businesses in this area who have worked to make Binghamton shine. Honestly, though, it's the people of Binghamton who are the beacons of light and hope for our community.
We have all heard that old saying, "A picture is worth a thousand words." Well, how about 10,345 pictures from 110 distinct events in 12 months? That is how many have been shared on our Facebook page in 2016 alone. Over 10,000 photos of the "Faces of Binghamton", with an occasional dog, giraffe and parrot thrown in.
I get it; just as many of you do. Binghamton is not perfect. However, for every negative there are always several positives to be found. We just need to look into the eyes of these "faces" to see the excitement and wonder that exists among us.
As with any city going through change, there are many things about Binghamton that will be in a state of constant flux. Businesses will open and close; crime rates will fluctuate; and buildings will be torn down while others are built in their place. The one constant, in my opinion, will always be the people that call this area home.
As we enter our fifth year, I have just one request. Take a moment that next time you are feeling down about our hometown and check out the "faces". Whether they be old, young or in-between; they are truly the beacons of our community and definitely need to be celebrated. I know that I will continue to celebrate them and Binghamton as long as they will allow me.
