Hallelujah! The lanterns are not coming, not coming -- at least not until February? That is more appropriate, anyway, for the Chinese New Year.

I was appalled that our own Town Council would approve a date coinciding with our traditional Christmas season.

Lest you think I am a racist, you would be very wrong.

I grew up in Phoenix, with friends who are first generation Chinese, Japanese. Also, Mexican, Swiss and Native American (as is my ancestry).

Some of us meet regularly, between class reunions. Their faiths range between Buddhist, Catholic and others. What binds our friendship is mutual respect, character, integrity, love of our country and boundless sense of humor.

I have another reason to feel very blessed. Thanks be to God!