This is Floyd Wynne with THE VIEW FROM HERE 8/10/04

I’ve changed my mind!

Some time ago I took issue with a plan proposed by Mayor Todd Kellstrom to construct a visitors center in the area facing Riverside Drive.

At the time I felt that it was better to expand Veteran’s Memorial Park and construct a center there that would provide not only information for visitors, but also adequate parking for motor homes and other vehicles.

However, two things have changed my mind.

First, a boat house has been built virtually in the middle of the park, and second there appears to still be difficulty in securing additional acreage for the park.

Mayor Kellstrom suggested that a visitor center could be constructed along Riverside Drive. At the present time there is one structure there, but otherwise the area appears to be open for development.

The area that is under water and full of reeds and such was a creation of the Highway Department when they constructed the portion of the West Side bypass. I think it blocked the water from draining down into Lake Ewauna and for years now has resulted in an unsightly view for travelers on US 97. We certainly have enough space and trails devoted to wing watchers along Lake Ewauna and could easily drain this area adjacent to Riverside Drive.

So....let’s hope the Mayor’s idea gains favor.

We note the effort to put some colorful fountains into Lake Ewauna. From the description it sounds like an idea that certainly would draw attention to the area and help promote some tourists to stay and play awhile.

However, a word of caution. Some other fountain projects on that end of the city haven’t fared very well. The falls that the Kiwanis Club constructed haven’t been in use for a few years. I don’t know why but they should be resurrected.

Also, there was the beautiful fountain itself in Veterans Park that provided a great effect to the area, but they stopped running a long time ago. We hope that doesn’t happens to fountains in Lake Ewauna.

We certainly have to commend the people and businesses along Main Street for the clean and vibrant look of the area. The landscaping has added a great touch, and the increased activity in the downtown area gives real meaning to it being a city center.

There is one thing that does mystify us, however. Why is there not some effort on the part of the city to do something with the old Medo-Bel Dairy structure lying right at the entrance to the downtown area. If it is privately owned, they should be given an ultimatum by the city to either put it to some good use....or tear it down.

All the efforts to improve downtown are dealt a big blow when potential visitors come in from US 97 from the south or enter the city from the Alameda area.

These areas need immediate attention in our fight to attract tourists to our area. Let’s hope something can be done.

This is Floyd Wynne and that’s THE VIEW FROM HERE.