Title
Wallace and Ladmo Way Ceremonial Street Name Signage - District 7
Description
Request City Council approval to install ceremonial street name signage recognizing The Wallace and Ladmo Show at the intersection of 1st Avenue and McKinley Street.
Report
Summary
The Wallace and Ladmo Show was the longest-running live children's television program in the country, airing from April 1, 1954 to December 29, 1989. The show aired Monday through Friday after school and featured many celebrities such as Barry Goldwater, Rose Mofford, Steven Spielberg, Acquanetta, Muhammad Ali, and more. The show entertained and educated three generations over its decades on air, making it a cherished part of Arizona's childhood memories.
The Wallace and Ladmo Show gave back to the community in many ways. They would host local sports games such as football, basketball, baseball, and more with proceeds going to local charities. They raised approximately $1,000,000 for local charities in those 35 years. In addition to having local community outreach, people on the show like Officer Harry from the Arizona Humane Society helped hundreds of cats and dogs get adopted. Another notable achievement, the Phoenix Children's Hospital was able to acquire seven heart monitors with the proceeds of selling 70,000 copies of The Wallace and Ladmo Show - 35 Years of Laughter book.
When co-host, Bill Thompson passed away, he donated all show memorabilia to the Arizona Historical Society to preserve its legacy for future generations.
The ceremonial street name sign will be mounted on the mast arm of the traffic signal pole at the southwest corner of 1st Avenue and McKinley Street. See Attachment A for an illustration of the proposed sign.
Financial Impact
The fabrication, installation and maintenance costs of the ceremonial street name sign will be funded by the requestor.
Location
1st Avenue and McKinley Street
Council District: 7
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Assistant City Manager Inger Erickson and the Street Transportation Department.