To the editor:

I remember back, oh, 10 years ago, when I first moved to town. I chose to live in Lawrence when I got a job in Topeka. I didn’t know anyone, so I spent time going around town getting to know the lay of the land, getting to feel the vibes of the town. I signed up for a photography class at the Lawrence Arts Center. One of the first pictures I ever took was a black and white photo of that Lawrence sign at the Amtrak station. The sign spoke out as to welcome me. I developed that photo and enlarged it. It was the first picture that I hung at my new home in my new town. After that, it felt like I was really a part of the town.

I have always seen the sign as a symbol of pride for the town. When friends come to visit, it is always one of the first things I take them to.

I will be very proud to see this sign once again, on the Amtrak station, illuminated in all its glory, saying “Welcome to our great town! Take a look around, enjoy yourself — and stay awhile.”