I had a chance to chat with a  couple who have lived in the Copper City their entire lives, and they are out to change the mindset of Romans.

I was doing a little shopping yesterday in Rome, and I encountered a couple who pointed me in the direction of an inspiring video. They were standing outside of Marshall's holding a sign that read: "Don't give up on our city." When I asked them what the signs message was, they told me that they were tired of the younger generation talking negatively about their hometown and they wanted to make a difference.

Peggy, and Richard Fleming have lived in Rome for 78 years and they are passionate about promoting a positive message to their Central New York neighbors. When I spoke with Richard, he told me about his long time employment at Griffiss Air Force Base. He worked there for 37 years and he told me: "I have so many fond memories here with my friends and family.; we've shared so many experiences together and it deeply saddens me to hear others talk negatively about our town."

Richard's wife Peggy was a homemaker but she recalls the wonderful memories of shopping at Matty's on Croton Street and Rizzo's Market on James Street. She mentioned to me that people today don't appreciate the rich history that Rome has to offer. She and her husband are determined to get residents to change their mindset about their town.

Peggy pointed me in the direction of the video I've posted here. She hopes that everyone watches it and gets a little inspired. Utica's motto is "It Starts with you." Perhaps Romans should consider adopting a similar saying.

Here's that video.

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