Special events are a challenge for Butler because of the city's troubling financial status.

But thankfully, some businesses in the community are stepping forward with contributions geared at keeping such events alive and well. That was evident again at the city council's June 17 meeting at which Sprint, Citizens Bank of Pennsylvania and Citizens National Bank of Evans City made contributions ranging from $1,500 to $4,000 for the July 4 fireworks, annual Freedom Celebration and the Cruise-A-Palooza, which was held last weekend at the Clearview Mall and Main Street in the city.

It is clear that such support must continue. This is a tough financial time for the city, and the more support that is forthcoming for traditional events, the more that the financial straits can be kept in the background as the events are being held.

Butler must continue to project itself as a community that is alive and moving forward, despite its challenges. These three businesses' generosity is a significant step toward that objective.

Other businesses should also seek ways to help.

The Slippery Rock Main Street revitalization project is continuing to energize the community beyond the upgrades for which it was originally targeted.This year it has provided the impetus for formation of an association that aims to link all the businesses in the area, not just Main Street enterprises. Meanwhile, the more-positive attitude that is increasingly gripping the community could be the foundation for establishing a community library.The borough council already has donated space for the facility, and resident Jan Forrest is attempting to obtain volunteers and financial support for setting up the library. She has asked that people wishing to help with the effort or donate toward what would be a valuable community resource to call her at 724-794-2955.Approximately 35 business owners attended the third meeting held by the business association since March. It has been decided that the association's first project would be creation of a Web site that would have information about community events, the association and businesses.Slippery Rock is proving that one community success - as has been the revitalization project - can inspire confidence about other pursuits. The borough should not allow itself to retreat from that positive mind-set.