In case you missed Friday’s paper, the Livingston Manor and Roscoe Central School Districts’ Boards of Education received a grant in order to conduct a merger feasibility study.

While we understand there are some concerns from the public on a possible merger and this did not come to fruition in the mid-90s, when it was last discussed, we feel it’s important to bring this topic up again to discuss both its merits and challenges.

The process as outlined at last week’s joint school board meeting, seems very transparent and offers the public plenty of opportunity to become involved.

The districts already share some services – including a Superintendent of Schools – and at the end of the day, we are confident that whatever is best for the students will ultimately take place.

COVID deaths
On a solemn note, we recently had our 100th county death because of the Coronavirus. Reflecting on the past two years, we are keeping all of those who lost their lives to this terrible virus, as well as their friends and family, in our thoughts and prayers.

We encourage everyone to be safe and smart in regard to what they plan to do to celebrate the new year. If you are attending a gathering of any kind, wear your masks and keep your distance. Cases are still climbing, and with the more contagious Omicron variant likely here or on its way, this surge might last for some time.

We once again thank all those on the frontlines caring for those in need of medical assistance, and our local school staffs, administrators, students and parents who are dealing with the everyday challenges of the pandemic.

Winter driving
While Mother Nature has given us a late start to wintry weather, we got a small taste last Wednesday with some unexpected precipitation that caused for an icy AM commute.

Icy conditions are certainly no joke, and there were a slew of accidents reported because of it.
It’s an important reminder to allot yourself extra time to get to your destination and to be extra careful when driving this time of year because of road conditions that could quickly deteriorate from winter weather condition.

Memo: we do live in the Northeast.

Also, be courteous to other drivers and keep a safe distance away in case they have to brake suddenly or lose control of their vehicle.

While we all want to be punctual and get to where we are going, it’s certainly not worth losing your life over.