CSPS flush with naming rights idea

The new elevator tower entrance will be the star attraction when CSPS reopens its door Friday night. The number two attraction will be the new toilets.

CSPS, 1103 Third St. SE, has six shiny new urinals and 15 sparkling new toilets.

But these heads have no names.

Do you know a John, Lou, Lew or Loo? Here's your chance to jump in feet-first and buy the naming rights to one of the thrones for $1,000. You can connect yourself to this conspicuous improvement in a tangible way, while helping Legion Arts raise some much-needed everyday operating dollars.

Executive Director F. John Herbert is keenly aware that past patrons may feel a nostalgic tug at the loss of some of the building's charm -- even in the restroom realm.

"Because people have a high degree of affection for the building the way it was, it may take time for them to get accustomed to the new," he said. "We think of the old bathrooms as being so inadequate, but people developed an affection for them. There's something ritualistic about standing in line so long.

"As somebody who's worked in the building a couple of decades, I understand the affection for something that feels very grassroots and homemade, and I understand the limitations. If people want to stand in line, we'll let them stand in line," he said with a laugh.

"(The renovations) have done a great job in retaining much of the character and charm of the building, while making it much more accessible, much more comfortable and much safer for audiences and artists alike," Herbert said.

So here's your chance to honor a loved one, a colleague, a favorite artist or yourself with the toilet naming rights. The Legion Arts folks encourage you to use your imagination. You could join with your neighbors to salute a beloved legislator or council representative. Express your respect for a teacher or mentor. Or go in together with a couple of co-workers to surprise your boss. The possibilities are endless, Herbert and his colleagues say.

Every donation (which is tax-deductible) will be recognized with an engraved name plate. Committed donors will be taken, by appointment, on a private tour of all facilities and invited to choose from among the available fixtures. Call (319) 364-1580 and schedule your tour today, before the best fixtures are claimed.

From a Legion Arts/CSPS newsletter, with additional reporting by Diana Nollen