Mapleton council isn’t ready to recognize its hometown hockey celebrities on entrance signs here.
Council was presented with a recommendation from the local Parks, Recreation and Culture Committee (PRCC) at the Aug. 13 meeting that suggested “the Drayton entrance signs be enhanced to recognize ‘The Proud Hometown of Scott Cherrey and Nick Spaling’ (NHL and Nashville Predator Logos included).”
Spaling will enter his fourth season as a player with the NHL’s Nashville Predators this fall, while Cherrey has been a linesman in the league since 2007.
“We have two local people that are playing an international sport at the highest level that you can play and it’s rare that you get just one star from a small town and we have two,” commented public works director Larry Lynch.
“These people, you see them on TV every week practically,” added Lynch, noting the proposed recognition would be included on an addition to the existing sign.
Councillor Andy Knetsch pointed out that while Spaling and Cherrey have a high profile, there are many other Mapleton natives who have succeeded in their chosen fields.
“We have many sons, many daughters in this township who excel, in teaching for example, in nursing, in so many fields, in business. That’s my dilemma,” said Knetsch.
Councillor Mike Downey agreed.
“I think we should be proud of these guys as we should be proud of a lot of guys and gals,” said Downey.
“Where do we draw the line, where do we stop? It’s a double-edged sword and a slippery slope.”
Councillor Neil Driscoll said, “I just like the look of the signs now; they’re clean, they’re to the point.”
Mapleton Hall of Fame
suggested by mayor
“I well remember seeing signs in small communities and, again, it’s usually hockey players and, again, that’s Canadian culture,” noted Mayor Bruce Whale.
He suggested the township consider creating a “Mapleton Hall of Fame and have a selection criteria.”
Whale suggested Spaling and Cherrey could be recognized at the PMD Arena “where our minor hockey program takes place.”
Lynch pointed out there are already displays, including signed sweaters, recognizing the local NHL celebrities at the arena, but he suggested signage outside the arena might be appropriate.
Downey noted the suggestion to use the NHL and Predators’ logos would require permission from the league and club.
“I’m not even sure you could do that,” Downey stated.
Whale added that, in the case of Spaling, a trade or free agent move could mean the logo might have to be changed at some point.
A motion to accept the PRACC recommendation was defeated, with Knetsch, Downey and Driscoll all opposed. Councillor Jim Curry was absent.