City of Champions signs vandalized

A vandal has struck out against Edmontons familiar City of Champions welcome signs.

Each of the citys trademark signs has been given a new, alternative slogan such as

City of Speed Traps and Construction City.

The replacement plaques were attached using a construction adhesive, or industrial glue, and then screwed in to cover the original message.

They looked almost professional, city crews said.

Chris LaBossiere, the co-chair of the mayors task force on image and reputation, admitted to chuckling when he heard about the vandalism.

Like everybody, I saw a little bit of Edmonton tongue-in-cheek in it, that self-deprecating sense of humour that we have. I smiled at first, he said.

LaBossiere said the replacement plaques may be a sign that Edmontonians no longer feel the old-fashioned, big lofty slogans of the past apply.

Theres a cynicism about slogans, so maybe thats part of the statement being made here, he said, adding that it has maybe become time for Edmonton to re-consider the City of Champions message.

I think it does touch a nerve about what some people feel about the city and that we need to do a better job of telling our own story.

Edmonton police are now looking into the sign vandalism.