Does Public Image Still Matter In 2021?

More than a decade ago, Dorchester made national news, thanks to an Associated Press story on the growth of the ethanol industry.

The AP article appeared in newspapers across the country. It was read by millions of Americans. (A Google search shows the article is still readily available on the Internet.)  

With a dateline of Dorchester, Neb., the article opened with:

"DORCHESTER, Neb. -- Outside of two bars and a bank there’s little activity on Washington Street here, where more windows are covered by boards than 'Open' signs. But at the end of the street, semi-trailers stir the dust near a concrete symbol of economic activity. It towers over the signs of small-town decay ..."

Shortly after that story was published, this blog published an editorial titled, "How Important Is Dorchester's Public Image?" It got residents talking. Some were upset by the AP article's portrayal of our community; others were surprised this blog chose to spotlight what was perceived as negative coverage.

Fortunately, since that AP story was published years ago, there have been many improvements in and around town. Credit goes to the many individuals who invested time and financial resources to enhance the appearance of their residential and commercial properties, thereby growing Dorchester's value and attractiveness. 

Think about the upgrades made to Dorchester over the past dozen years or so: a new school; several new additions to the city park, including a $250,000 water park; new businesses on main street and improvements to main street buildings; several older homes restored; new housing built; new commercial buildings and properties constructed. All these improvements deserve recognition from fellow residents.

However, we're disappointed by some of the eyesores that remain, as well as the new ones that have appeared, especially near our community's public areas, which belong to all the taxpaying residents. Blighted and unsightly properties near our park and main street do nothing to enhance the community, nor do they make it attractive to those considering making Dorchester home.

Readers can ignore these words, shrug their shoulders, look the other way. But this point remains as true today as it ever has been: Public image matters, even in an era of declining standards.  

For Dorchester, it's more than just a debate among friends and neighbors. In Dorchester, public image will set the course for our community's future.