Norfolk Daily News

Thursday – April 17, 2008

Your View

Thinking outside the box
NORFOLK — Regarding Lonn Atwood’s recent letter, the words “public,” “garment” and “suitable for alterations” made me think. I’d like to think outside the box.

With all the commentary and discussion about a new or remodeled city hall, may I suggest that the city build a 10-story bust of Johnny Carson to house the city offices and related cooperating offices?

Before you laugh, Mitchell, S.D., now has the world famous Corn Palace. Do you think building a Corn Palace was a popular idea at the time of its conception? I think not.

The police chief and the fire chief each could have their offices in Johnny’s eyes — looking out after Norfolkans. The ears could house other security-related offices protecting us. The nose would make a nice place for permits and certification and the solid waste division.

The mouth would be a great place for the Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce and the Madison County Visitors Bureau, the Elkhorn Valley Economic Development Council, plus the mayor and the council. The first few floors would house the other entities that would share space and reduce cost for the City. Nebraska Workforce Development and the Norfolk Area Recruiters would be situated on Johnny’s shoulders.

A premium price could be had for Johnny’s lapels and suit jacket pockets. A fancy restaurant could be housed in Johnny’s stomach area. The Norfolk Public Schools administration would be in Johnny’s head.

Just lean back and envision all the publicity that Norfolk would receive — it would surely increase economic development as companies would literally fight to establish manufacturing plants and service entities in a city with our vision. Tourism would skyrocket in Northeast Nebraska. Tax revenues would escalate. All over America, Norfolk would be known for our uniqueness, separating us from competition looking for economic development!

Let’s build it before the inaugural Great American Comedy Festival in June — also envisioned to carry on our favorite Norfolk hometowner’s legacy!

Think about it. It just might work!

DENNY REEVES