Words cannot express how grateful and honored I am that the Village of Fayetteville chose to dedicate Canal Landing Park in my honor. The ceremony they held the day after Thanksgiving was so special and having it that day allowed many members of my family to attend, including my two sons. It is hard to put into words what this dedication means to me. It was an honor to serve as the Village Mayor for so many years!
Thank you to Mayor Small, the Village Board, the residents and everyone in the Village of Fayetteville for this honor.
I am happy to share with you these remarks which I made at the dedication.
Good Morning everyone,
It is truly an honor to stand before you today at this remarkable occasion – the dedication of Canal Landing Park in Fayetteville, New York. This park represents not just a physical space, but a symbol of community, history, and a shared vision for the future of this wonderful village.
First and foremost, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the Board of Trustees, Mayor Small, and all of the citizens of Fayetteville for this tremendous honor. To have this park named in my honor is something I will cherish for the rest of my life. This is not only a reflection of my time as mayor, but also of the hard work, dedication, and spirit of cooperation that has been shown by so many throughout the years.
This park, which you see before us today, is the result of years of collaboration, planning, and determination. It would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of many people, including our trustees, engineers & architects, volunteers, and countless others who worked behind the scenes to make this vision a reality. I’d like to thank a few special people who made this park a reality: Former Assemblyman Jeff Brown, Rob Hiltbrand, State Parks Regional Director, Commissioner Brian Stratton of NY State Canal Corporation, our amazing DPW Crew, Village Clerk Lynch & Corsette as well as Mayors Parnell, Lannon, Loosman and McIntosh for paving the way and keeping the vision that this should be a park for all to enjoy. Your contributions have transformed this land into a vibrant, welcoming space for all generations to enjoy, and for that, I thank you.
But as much as today is about celebrating Canal Landing Park, it’s also a moment to look toward the future. This park is a legacy for all of us, a place where families can gather, where memories can be made, and where the heart of Fayetteville will continue to thrive. It is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the people who call this village home.
Today, as we dedicate Canal Landing Park, I would like to take a moment to dedicate this space to my family — the Olson family — whose support has been unwavering throughout my journey as Mayor. And, most importantly, I dedicate this park to the citizens of Fayetteville. This park is for you, and it’s because of you that we have made such strides in building a community that cares for its people, its history, and its future.
Thank you once again to everyone who made this day possible. Your dedication to our community is truly inspiring. I am forever grateful for this honor, and I look forward to seeing this park grow, flourish, and become a beloved gathering place for generations to come.
Thank you.