Thursday, December 15, 2011

Mysterious billboards have popped up across Wichita, prompting questions from viewers.

One of the signs sits at Interstate-235 and Central. It said “The War is Over.” It is signed Happy Christmas from John and Yoko. There is no phone number, or web address.

Music buffs may already know the meaning behind the message. John Lennon and Yoko Ono bought billboard space in several major cities around Christmas in 1969. Yoko later said it was just an effort to create good vibrations around the world. It was their Christmas gift.

John and Yoko later used the message in a song, “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” in 1971.

Orly Ortiz, president of Clear Channel outdoor advertising, said he did not know who is responsible for similar billboards in Wichita. Ortiz said the advertising agency that placed the order requested the buyer remain anonymous.

The curious message can be found on about seven or eight billboards across the city.