Improving Cortland's Image

     There have been several suggestions and ideas in the news or floated on blogs recently about improving Cortland's image, especially at the I-81 Exit 11 gateway to Clinton Avenue and downtown Cortland. It took an outsider-now-insider with a different perspective to get the conversation started.
     A big box store like Target would be a perfect fit at Riverside Plaza near Exit 11. But it's more of a dream than realty at this point.
     One of our most esteemed contributors has offered the following observation: "Image without substance does not amount to much. The city needs a healthier economic base, but that's not something that's accomplished by window dressing."
     Cortland Contrarian's staff has a few thoughtful but manic ideas on this subject:
     1) Erect a statue of Cortland's HONEST POLITICIAN at the site of the old gasoline station. Make it over 30 feet tall, very noticeable. Provide a worthy inscription at the base. Keep it obscure but reference the Cardiff Giant. Next to the statue, place a large lighted billboard with directions and a map to downtown places of interest.
     2) Direct visitors to Woodman's Pub for a one-on-one interview with Cortland's finest and most gifted politicians.
     3) Pass out souvenirs of old political campaign statements, and other immutable lies. Show them news-clippings of public employee lawsuits against taxpayers and other unselfish activities. Tell them about the crows. Balance the presentation with a description of the June Dairy Parade, 1890 House and County Fair.
     4) If the first three items fail to astound or impress visitors, unleash the ultimate propaganda tool and show them city/county/school tax rates and fee structures.
     5) As visitors make a quick escape, remind them that Main Street is a one-way street.