This weekend’s birthday celebration is a good opportunity for Lawrence residents to recognize efforts to make the Lawrence Municipal Airport a welcome entry into the city.

As the Lawrence Municipal Airport celebrates its 75th birthday, area residents should pause to recognize the important role the airport has played in and will continue to play in the city’s development.

It’s not Kansas City International, but the Lawrence airport has been improved to handle large business jets and accommodates about 100 take-offs and landings each day. Many people have played a part in the airport’s development and Rick Bryant has provided strong leadership since taking over as chairman of the city’s Aviation Advisory Board in 1999.

The airport will celebrate its birthday today with an open house from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and other events. It’s a great opportunity for local residents to look around and congratulate those involved with the ongoing efforts to meet Lawrence’s aviation needs. As Bryant said, the airport provides “a great front door from the skies for the city of Lawrence.”