We are really glad the Willie Thrower statue has arrived in New Kensington, been placed at Valley Memorial Stadium and can quietly await its formal dedication in September.
The effort to provide a suitable honor for Thrower, the Ken High legend who went on to become the National Football League's first black quarterback, finally has overcome some serious stumbling blocks. What should have been a relatively simple campaign went on too long. It suffered from inexplicable indifference on the parts of some city and school district leaders, some political posturing, disputes between the memorial committee and the sculptor and public confusion over how the committee was spending the money.
But that's all water down Pucketa Creek now. The Willie Thrower All-Pro Memorial Committee paid $28,500 to artist (and New Ken native) Steve Paulovich and has money left over to provide some scholarships, help community projects and otherwise provide charitable aid. The beautiful bronze statue is in its proper place inside the stadium.
The Thrower family and the committee are fairly bursting with pride today, as well they should be. A proper memorial has been created to mark Willie's unique place in America's favorite sport. All citizens of New Kensington should look upon the shrine with hometown pride. We only wish Willie, who died in 2002, were here to see it.
We're looking forward to Thursday, Sept. 28, when the Willie Thrower statue will be dedicated prior to the Valley-Shadyside Academy game.
