Walker to be honored Dec. 19

Left-handed relief pitcher Cat Walker helped the Detroit Tigers earn a berth in the 2006 World Series. He then made local history by facing one batter on baseball?s biggest stage.

Parks and Recreation director Carlene Brown presented the Board of Mayor and Aldermen with the idea during Tuesday?s regular session.

?We would like to have a celebration in honor of his successful baseball career,? said Brown. ?Our intention is to recognize the hard work he has displayed and the level of success he is now enjoying.?

Also suggested by Brown was to add at least one to three directional signs at the major entrances into the Civic Center ball field complex which would state, along with directions, that this is the home of Jamie ?Cat? Walker.

A proposed agenda presented to the board includes having state Sen. Jerry Cooper, County Executive John Pelham, Mayor Royce Davenport and former coach Ronnie Brown speak at the ceremony. Walker will speak after opening comments. An autograph session, one item only per person, and a reception will be held immediately following.

This month, city officials are expected to pass an ordinance declaring Dec. 19 as ?Cat Walker Day.? County officials are expected to pass a proclamation honoring Walker. These will be presented to him during the Dec. 19 event.

Along with these scheduled activities, organizations and schools are planning other activities in honor of Walker. Because these activities are special, they are being kept secret for the time being.

The idea for the Civic Center ceremony stems from discussions on how to best honor the baseball star. Past suggestions included changing a street name and naming a field ?Cat? Walker Field.

Although changing a street?s name was an idea with early momentum, there is already a Walker Street. Adding a Cat Walker Street might produce confusion for emergency service workers. Leaving off ?Walker? would mean some McMinnville residents would live on Cat Street, an idea that might not appeal to some.

?I think we should name a field after him,? said Mayor Davenport. ?Unless there is a reason not to. There is nothing wrong with doing that too.?

Because City Field is the only field not named after someone, elected officials voted to change the name of that field to Jamie ?Cat? Walker Field.

To accomplish all the preparation needed before the ceremony date, Brown is asking for volunteers. Anyone who would like to volunteer can contact Brown at 473-1212.