http://www.news-leader.com/article/20091225/OPINIONS03/912250350/Where+will++Howard++live+now+that+landmark+is+gone

Where will 'Howard' live now that landmark is gone?

Yes, I am concerned about Howard, the resident "ghost" at the Riverside Inn. With all the recent publicity about the closing and demolition of this venerable dining place, an important consideration has not been addressed.

What happens now to the faithful Howard? After many years in residence at this historic location what does the future hold for him? Where will he live? Who will he haunt when in a mischievous mood? Will anyone care that he is homeless, jobless and lonely? Will he be welcome at a homeless shelter? Does he have severance pay or a pension to buy his favorite chicken dinner when hungry?

Howard provided shivers, scares and smiles to many and added a certain charm and mystique to the Riverside, giving his life and after life to this favorite local "haunt," no small contribution. Howard, I for one am sympathetic to your problems and offer you a temporary place to stay, if needed. You just don't have the "ghost" of a future any longer at the Riverside. May the holiday "spirit" provide you comfort and hope for better days ahead in your after life. Haunt in peace in your new, hopefully dry future home.

P.S. Have you been invited anywhere for Christmas?