I agree on both issues in Paul Tweiten’s letter (May 8 issue) regarding the Viking statue being adorned with flowers, bunny ears, sombrero, etc., and renaming the pavilion.

I have lived in Poulsbo for almost 70 years and we have always respected, honored and saluted the Norseman and Viking heritage Poulsbo represents. In high school, we were the “Proud Fighting Vikings.”

I agree with Paul that you don’t see flowers and bunny ears on the totem poles in Suquamish because they represent the Indian heritage and history, which they honor and respect. The Norseman statue stands proud and represents the Scandinavian history and honors the ancestors and settlers of Poulsbo (with or without helmets).

I also disagree with the choice of the City Council to change the name of the pavilion. Rangvald Kvelstad was a major influence in Poulsbo and his students — many still live in the area — appreciated the honor of his name being given to the landmark pavilion.

I think a more appropriate structure to honor Bill Austin would have been the Marine Science Center. He put in numerous hours soliciting funding to save the center, volunteering his time and energy, getting the octopus and the fountain to beautify its curb appeal.“Austin Martin Science Center” would have been perfect recognition for his efforts.

I would have bookended Poulsbo with “Austin Towers” and “Austin Marine Science Center.” (Just a thought!)

Suzan Bailey Martin
Poulsbo