Upon reading a recent letter to the editor (Worthington is not what it used to be -- July 28), of which the purpose was to shed a negative light on the Worthington community, I felt compelled to respond.
I have lived in Worthington for over 12 years and am very proud to call this community home. While I feel badly that Ms. Caporin-O'Laughlin and her family have had a less than desirable experience in the past couple of years, I don't believe this to be a widespread occurrence.
Dishonesty, crime and drug abuse are very unfortunate issues that face society as a whole today. These issues are no more concentrated in Worthington than anywhere else.
My wife and I are raising two young children in Worthington. We have been very pleased with the vast array of programs and activities that this community has to offer. From involvement in pre-school, Community Ed, YMCA programs and now this year the public school, we have had nothing but positive experiences with all people involved. The community is very fortunate to have all of this available.
We also own a small business in town and come in contact with people of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds. The positive encounters that happen on a daily basis far, far, outweigh the small number of negatives. My experience is that the people of this community and surrounding area are very courteous, respectful, family-oriented people no matter who they are or where they've come from.
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There are also many other positives happening now and in the near future.
We now have a number of annual community events including the Windsurfing Regatta, the International Festival, King Turkey Day and others that celebrate the community of Worthington and what it has to offer. If you haven't taken part in these, you should. They are very entertaining and well run by the fine people of the area.
We have new business developments in the bioscience and retail sector that will add to employment opportunities and the amenities offered locally. We have a great public and private school system. Minnesota West Community College is a huge benefit to the area. Our local government is being very proactive in looking for ways to better the community, an example being the new initiative to improve blighted houses in the city.
Lake Okabena is a terrific natural asset to the community, offering many activities and parks to enjoy. The Veteran's Memorial Park is a great new addition to this area. We now have a very enthusiastic Lake Association being formed to help preserve and protect this beautiful asset to the Worthington area for generations to come.
It is too easy to read or hear about negative perspectives and to let that energy spread. Worthington has too many great people making great "things" happen to let negativity prevail. Keep up the good work, Worthington!
