Paris has its Eiffel Tower. Rome's got the Coliseum. And Milwaukee?
Well, we're now the proud home of the Fonzie Statue, a 5-foot-6-inch, teal, white and bronze monument to Henry Winkler's character in the 1970s TV sitcom "Happy Days."
The sculpture, on the RiverWalk just southeast of the Wells St. bridge, was unveiled this morning in a ceremony that featured most of the cast of the show, from creator Garry Marshall to his sister, Penny Marshall (alias Laverne of "Laverne & Shirley" fame), Cindy Williams (Shirley), Don Most (Ralph Malph), Anson Williams (Potsie), Erin Moran (Joannie Cunningham), Tom Bosley and Marion Ross (Mr. and Mrs. C to you), and, of course, Winkler.
More than 500 people turned out to line the streets as the cast appeared, snapping pictures and shouting, "We love you, Fonzie!" and "Schlamiel, Schlamazel," the words made famous in the opening song of "Laverne & Shirley."
There were proclamations from the governor, presented by Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton (who opined that the statue was a "great ballast to the Calatrava," Milwaukee's world-famous Art Museum addition); County Executive Scott Walker (dressed in a black leather jacket and motorcycle boots); Mayor Tom Barrett (marveling at the size of the crowd); and even Giuseppe Ganelli, who came all the way from Italy to represent the International Happy Days Fan Club.
The throng was treated to free frozen custard at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts and the chance to meet one of the stars. Fonzie T-Shirts were practically flying off the table at $20.
"Everyone wants Fonzie," said saleswoman Carla Moriarity.
Comedian John McGivern, who served as master of ceremonies, said the statue is meant to represent a time when life was simpler.
"It's a perfect symbol of optimism," he said. "The most famous thumbs up in the world."
To those who might turn up their noses at what could be called a bow to pop culture, Deborah Keefe, 55, of Greendale would beg to differ.
"This is a good thing for Milwaukee," she said.
Fun fact to know and tell: Sculptor Gerald Sawyer says he fashioned the hands to include veins with the initials of Winkler and his wife, Stacey.
