A "Harry" situation

Beautiful Fort Wayne, Indiana

Caution: may not be suitable for children or old people with heart conditions.


I'm sure some of you have seen the raging debate that is going on in Fort Wayne, Indiana.  This fairly large city (relative of course) is home to a sacred history.  A traditional midwest town that was settled by the French but eventually grew into a manufacturing haven during the mid-20th century.

As manufacturing was less in demand, the economy in Fort Wayne diversified and became known for its education, healthcare, insurance, defense, and security (according to Wiki).  The city has a thriving economy and has decided to expand.  The city has plans to build a new government center.  The problem?  It didn't have a name.

So what does a great democracy do?  They wanted to hear from the people via this nifty thing called the internet.  Great idea Fort Wayne!  Glad to see you're separating from Cairo.  Let the people have a voice.

And so they did.  This message board displayed the results.

Yes, you saw it right.  The people want to name their new government building after a proud mayor in the 1940's.

His name is Harry Baals.  By the way, I'm not writing a blog just to have confusion of how his last name is pronounced.  It's "balls."


I'll let you chuckle for a second.... ok.  Let's continue. 


Relatives have since pronounced their last name "Bales."  However, the town is a bit.... testy (stole that joke, heard it earlier but had to share) and they want their new government center to be named the Harry Baals Government Center.

However, the Deputy Mayor has already said that the name is a no go. I completely understand that.  The issue arises when you give your people the power to voice there opinions.  On the message board, Harry Baals already has 10,000 votes, while the second place vote getter has 500.  The people have spoken.  You don't need to call it Harry Baals.  Maybe H.B. Government Center.  Or H. Baals Government Center.  The new mayor can even pronounce the name "Bales" if he/she feels uncomfortable.

The fact is that Harry Baals was a strong influence in Fort Wayne and should be recognized for it.  Even the people think so.

Let's hope the city makes the right decision and honor the legacy of Harry Baals, Mayor Fort Wayne.  Seriously.