This is Floyd Wynne with THE VIEW FROM HERE 6-29-04

All the news media will be busy speculating about what may happen when we turn things over to the Iraqis tomorrow so today

let’s take a look at things closer to home.

First I have to compliment the business people and the owners of buildings in the downtown area of Klamath Falls. The switch to the shopping centers and the demise of the old courthouse left the downtown area in sad shape.

But since then newer businesses and individuals have moved into the downtown area and give it a newly refurbished look. The addition of landscaping certainly has improved the appearance and the new signs listing it as “Tree City USA” are proper.

I don’t remember whether the trees downtown were the brainstorm of the late Joe Caraher or his predecessor as publisher, Bill Sweetland. At any rate, it has paid off.

Admittedly there are still some eyesores such as the old MedoBell Dairy building which has stood idle for a number of years....and the lot across from it that is an apparent parking spot for a number of vehicles. There is also the old Arcade Hotel building that needs to be rehabilitated, but in the main the entire area has improved greatly.

The addition at the other end of Main Street of the title building by Jeld-Wen is certainly great. It adds further beauty and dignity to the two courthouse structures. Another new building is rising on the corner of fourth and Main that should also help.

Now....there are a few things that could be done to further add to the beauty of the downtown area.

First....get the Falls flowing that the Kiwanis Club apparently initiated . We can always point to those falls as the reason for the name Klamath Falls even if it isn’t true.

Also...we would hope the city would revitalize the fountain in Veteran’s Park. That fountain added a real spark of beauty to the area.

Third...we would like to see the city take the plaque that honors George Nurse, founder of the town, from its place by the motel near the overpass.....and move it across the street and put it in an open area where everyone can see it. Presently it is almost unnoticed where it is located.

Those items alone would add another excellent touch to the revitalization of the downtown area.

There are a number of other things that could and should be done, but doing something about the things I’ve mentioned would be a big step.

It’s my understanding that it would cost a great deal to tear down the old dairy building, but something must be done to either put it to some use...or demolish it.....it’s the biggest eyesore of all right at the main entrance to downtown.

So...while the world wonders what comes next in Iraq.....we compliment those downtown for the great progress they have made to make this a better community.

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