Published: October 17, 2009 09:01 am      

Mayor can help shape city "brand"

A recent study by OpinionWorks indicated that Oneonta has something of an identity crisis.

Speaking to area business owners and local officials recently, Steve Raabe of OpinionWorks said the city lacks a distinct brand or identity, despite its assets.

The survey polled more than 800 people, more than half of whom do not live here. While many had positive things to say about the area, including its natural beauty and small-town appeal, the most common identifying characteristic was "college town."

More troubling, it was area residents, not visitors from outside the region, who had the toughest time singling out Oneonta's distinctive traits. Nearly a quarter said they weren't sure, or that nothing came to mind, when asked what features they associated with the Oneonta area.

We know the Oneonta region has a lot to offer visitors and residents alike. Whether it's outdoor recreation, the arts, athletics or community organizations, there's no shortage of things going on. But as Raabe pointed out, someone needs to take the helm and see to it that a distinctive, flattering image of Oneonta is conveyed to visitors.

While Raabe suggested hiring an outside consultant to fill this role, we believe it would be positive for the mayor to take the lead. We look forward to hearing what the three mayoral candidates would suggest to achieve this goal.

{"Headlinelight24"/}Students defied stereotypes

{"Body Text Edit"/}Students at the State University College at Oneonta recently voiced their opinion about a campus visit from an evangelical preacher _ some without even saying a word.

A silent protest was organized when students learned that Jim Deferio of Syracuse would be returning to campus Tuesday. Deferio and his daughter Michelle visited SUNY Oneonta last fall, bringing the message that Jesus Christ can "save" homosexuals.

Students expected a similar message this week, but instead found signs and slogans opposing abortion. Many chose to continue the planned protest against Deferio, regardless of the changed message.

While we do not support the actions of those who heckled the Deferios _ including one who shouted "Get a job" _ we do applaud students for becoming engaged in an exchange of ideas.

Stereotypes linger of college students as apathetic, lazy or uninterested in current issues. Tuesday's protest was a counterexample to this.

We hope students are motivated by this event to continue to advocate for issues they believe in.