Old gang needed

Dear Editor,

Gov. Mike Johanns probably did the right thing in helping out the State Fair by pledging the state would take over maintenance of the fair facilities for the next six months.

However, this should not be a continuing expense for taxpayers, especially in view of the state's financial woes.

The economic impact of the fair is conservatively estimated at $28 million each year. It's obvious who benefits the most -- the businesses of Lincoln. So it stands to reason that they should be the ones to bail out this worthwhile enterprise.

Some 40 years ago, a group in Lincoln, known informally as the "O Street Gang," recognized the economic benefits of having a championship football team at the University of Nebraska and set out to make it happen with money and support.

I would think that the Lincoln businesses and other movers-and-shakers in that community would be lining up to see that the fair succeeds.

Of course, if Lincolnites have no interest in this $28 million benefit, I'm sure other cities would like the chance to host the State Fair.

Jack Rogers

McCook