By LYNETTE GREEN
It is with great sadness that our family bids a reluctant goodbye to the mischievous “Rest Area” created by my late dad, Leonard, and my brother Kent Green. It has provided an unexpected spot of whimsy in the western Nebraska landscape and has been appreciated by thousands of travelers. RoadSideAmerica deemed the Alliance rustic rest area attraction “an unusual arrangement of Nebraska natural resources” particularly for those who don’t need “privacy in your privy” Considering the obvious pranks an empty toilet might inspire, this quirky and quite celebrated spot experienced a few random acts of ill will during its lifetime. Family and friends were faithful to clean up and repair the area, even stealthily adding the “Free WiFi” feature for the amusement of future travelers.
Recently however, the minor/vandalism escalated to multiple, continuing deliberate acts of sabotage, presumably in response to the posting of a sign supporting a political candidate. These acts lead to the difficult decision to remove the local landmark. I am surprised and disappointed that a member of a community known for harvesting each other’s crops, trading garden produce, field sweet corn and other neighborly acts of kindness toward one another would respond to this First Amendment right in this way.
Could they have expressed a difference of opinion without the intentional destruction of property? Like many families, ours has divergent political views, and we don’t always see eye-to-eye on every topic. However, I respect Kent’s tireless efforts, and financial sacrifices, to safely maintain this little piece of Nebraska folklore and pay tribute to Dad’s creativity and sense of humor. Although the removal of this unsanctioned oddity will have little impact on the immediate political landscape, it certainly has taken something away from the little spot along Highway 385 and Alliance’s heartbeat. I truly hope the sentiments prompting these actions reflect only one or just a few individuals, and the long-standing tradition of neighborliness will continue in this rural community many of us have called home. Thank you Dad for your witty imagination, and Kent and your helpers for years of dedication to preserving the Rest Area ….may it “Rest In Peace”! As we bid farewell to our Rest Stop, we send our prayers for unity and peace in our community, our country and the world.
-Lynette Green, Paul, Connor and Colin Connealy