The Mascot Hall of Fame is an attraction working its way into the Whiting community recently. Founded as an online-only hall, excitement and anticipation has been high since the hall began planning its move to Whiting in 2014.
Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, the multi-million dollar, interactive facility promises to be an exciting and family-oriented attraction. While there may not be a finished physical location, there are already four mascots ready to be inducted when the facility opens in the second half of 2018.
“When we had the groundbreaking last year, six mascots got nominated for a three part voting process to determine who would eventually be selected,” explained Al Spajer, Executive Director of the Mascot Hall of Fame.
This year, Benny the Bull (Chicago Bulls), Tommy Hawk (Chicago Blackhawks), Nittany Lion (Penn State University), and Sluggerrr (Kansas City Royals) were the lucky four to reserve a space among the ranks. With an application process and certain criteria to meet, not every mascot is eligible for induction. Each mascot must be unique and fun, in existence for at least five years, and demonstrate its ability to have an impact on sporting events as well as have memorable performances.
“The mascots we considered were all good. For these four, there was no dispute, they deserved to get in,” explained Spajer. “It will be a wonderful ceremony when they get in and we get the place open.”
With the Mascot Hall of Fame coming to Whiting, and these four mascots ready to be inducted, the facility promises to be a good dose of family fun. With interactive exhibits, and a bit of hidden education, kids and adults alike are certain to have a great time.
“Whiting is a city that absolutely embraces good family values,” said Spajer. “There’s going to be a high fun quotient but a subliminal educational quotient within the hall. When families or students come, they’re going to get a big dose of fun and a lot of education.”
With such a fun, unique perspective on the world of sports, the Mascot Hall of Fame is sure to be a wonderful addition to the Whiting community. As the walls go up and the building continues to move toward the goal of an interactive, fun space for families, 2018 promises to be an exciting time for Whiting.
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