Thumbs up for new hope for the former Salvation Army building in downtown Norwich. The Southern Tier Regional Economic Development Council announced that it would designate $200,000 in a low-interest loan to the Community Revitalization Program, designed with an objective for the vacant building. As a Norwich resident, it’s great to see that one by one, the empty buildings and storefronts downtown are being taken up with a purpose in mind. Hats off to Development Chenango and all those involved. My hint to anyone interested in starting a business: It’s a good time to consider opening up a toy shop in the heart of the city. – SM

Thumbs up to Pet Street for creating an event for dog lovers (see the story on today’s front page). I think it’s a fantastic opportunity to further expose a county full of pet owners to a sport that they can have fun with. It seems as though dog agility is something that really has legs. It may very will gain real traction and just keep on running. Even for those who do not have dogs, it will no doubt be entertaining to watch. And even when the dogs are not doing what they are told, it should be a whole lot of fun. – KJD

A well-earned thumbs up for the Chenango Blues Association following another successful Blues Fest (its 20th year, no less). I had a fantastic time at my favorite festival of the year (no surprise there) and I was impressed by the assembled talent, particularly the Voice of the Wetlands All-Stars (guitarist Tab Benoit was downright slick) and J.J. Grey & Mofro (one of my favorites). This year, for the first time, I took advantage of the camping set-up down at the fairgrounds, which made for an absolutely unforgettable day (and evening) spent with my best buddy Tozer and his wife Renee, who made their way to Norwich for the festivities. Regardless, it’s nice to know the blues are still alive and well here in Chenango County and here’s to next year’s fest ... I can’t wait. – BDG