Fundraising efforts have "kicked off" in an attempt to make a National Mascot HOF "a reality" for Whiting, Ind., according to Ed Bierschenk of the NORTHWEST INDIANA TIMES. A brochure that is being "distributed to potential donors" lays out "how a mascot hall of fame could entice visitors to make repeated trips to the venue to enjoy a variety of activities and events." The museum will "honor some of the well-known sports mascots who have entertained fans for generations" and also give visitors "the chance to engage" in activities like making miniature mascots. The original Phillie Phanatic David Raymond "came up with the idea." He said that in "addition to the exhibits there will be regular visits from mascots and special events." There will be a "yearly Mascot Hall of Fame induction ceremony." Raymond: "I don't think there's any way we are not going to meet our fundraising goal." Whiting Mayor Joe Stahura said that he "hopes the Mascot Hall of Fame will be an anchor that could spur other developments such as restaurants and hotels." The city enlisted design firm Jack Rouse Associates to "come up with the conceptual master plan that is being sent to potential investors." Stahura said that the city will "use tax increment financing bonds to construct what has been envisioned as a 25,000-square-foot building," adding that the city will probably invest about $8M in the structure. The project was "initially scheduled to open fall of next year" (NORTHWEST INDIANA TIMES, 3/13).
