Albuquerque Antics: Mayor Unveils Plan for Giant Purple Potato StatueAlbuquerque Antics: Mayor Unveils Plan for Giant Purple Potato Statue In a bizarre twist of events, Albuquerque’s Mayor, Tim Keller, has unveiled an ambitious plan to erect a monumental statue of a purple potato in the heart of the city. The proposed sculpture, dubbed “The Purple Spud,” is intended to symbolize the city’s agricultural heritage and pay homage to the humble vegetable that has played a significant role in the local economy. “Albuquerque has a long and proud history with potatoes,” Mayor Keller said at a press conference. “This statue will not only be a testament to that history but also a quirky and memorable landmark that will draw visitors from far and wide.” The statue, which is expected to stand over 60 feet tall, will be carved from a single block of solid granite and painted a vibrant shade of purple. It will be located in Civic Plaza, a prominent public space in downtown Albuquerque. The proposal has been met with mixed reactions from the public. Some residents have embraced the idea as a fun and unique way to celebrate the city’s culture. Others have expressed skepticism, questioning the artistic value and practicality of such a large and unusual sculpture. “It’s a bit silly, but it’s also kind of charming,” said local resident Sarah Jones. “It’ll definitely be a talking point.” Opponents of the plan have argued that the statue would be a waste of taxpayer money and would detract from the city’s more established landmarks. They have also raised concerns about maintenance and vandalism. “This is not a serious project,” said City Councilor Diane Gibson. “We have more important things to spend our time and resources on.” Undeterred by the criticism, Mayor Keller has vowed to move forward with his plan. He has allocated $5 million for the sculpture’s construction and has formed a committee to oversee the project. “I believe that ‘The Purple Spud’ will become an iconic symbol of Albuquerque,” Mayor Keller said. “It will be a source of pride for our citizens and a symbol of our quirky and vibrant spirit.” Whether the statue will become a beloved landmark or a colossal embarrassment remains to be seen. One thing is for sure, though: “The Purple Spud” is sure to add a unique chapter to the colorful history of Albuquerque Antics.