Honoring local role models

Naming streets after celebrities understandably doesn't rank high on the Cedar Rapids City Council's priority list. Council members have such tasks as flood recovery, budget shortfalls and an election just around the corner.

But we hope the council revives consideration of candidates for street naming or other recognition. We think there's value to the community in honoring local heroes who use their celebrity or achievements to benefit their hometowns.

Mayoral candidate P.T. Larson is one who is trying to keep the Kurt Warner bandwagon rolling. He thinks the Arizona Cardinals quarterback, who played at Regis High School and the University of Northern Iowa before forging a Cinderella pathway to NFL stardom, is deserving. So did former council member Chuck Swore, who proposed the idea a month after Warner's stellar performance in January's Super Bowl fell a bit short of victory.

We agree and wonder why Warner hasn't been recognized.

After all, the council saw fit to name a one-block stretch of road near Elmcrest Country Club for golfer Zach Johnson after he won the 2007 Masters tournament. Zach was worthy not only because of athletic feats but for his willingness to keep coming back and giving back to the community. Just as Warner has - helping with fundraisers for charities, working on Habitat for Humanity home projects, assisting flood victims, and other endeavors. Both are regarded as individuals of high character.

Another mayoral candidate, Ron Corbett, recently suggested that former longtime Mayor Don Canney deserves similar recognition. Corbett wants Canney's name on the new viaduct project that takes Edgewood Road SW across railroad tracks and a creek south of Highway 30, improving access for local industry, development and the airport.

Street naming certainly shouldn't be limited only to athletes or entertainers. Canney was a strong leader who made a big impact on our city. For example, it was Canney's idea to build the Edgewood Road bridge over the Cedar River, which led to that street becoming a major artery.

Sure, there's always a risk that a hero could turn into a villain. But street names can be changed.

Why not honor our own role models who spread community pride and inspiration?