Springer has sprung in Springfield

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This article was published 20/06/2023 (677 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The RM of Springfield will be the first municipality in Manitoba to have its own mascot.

The municipality welcomed Springer to its team June 8.

“The moose has always been a symbol of Springfield and being able to bring it to life has already brought a lot of smiles and joy to the people in the community,” said Hailee Thruthwaite, marketing and communications coordinator for the RM. “Everybody seems to love it.”

Spinger made his debut appearance during the Chickendaze parade, handing out candy with the RM of Springfield’s float along Main Street in Oakbank.

Truthwaite said the idea was sparked during conversations about Springfield’s 150th anniversary happening later this year. They felt like it was the right move to add to the family-friendly activities during the celebrations.

To choose the name, the RM held a contest. More than 200 name suggestions were submitted, and those entries were narrowed down to the top five most common ones. Last week, a vote was opened for community members to pick their favourite name.

More than 400 votes were cast, but Springer was the ultimate choice beating out the other finalists including Oakley and Bruce. Truthwaite said participation was higher than she anticipated.

“I think because this will be kind of something that will be involved in the community regularly… I think that’s what drove a better turnout.”

Springer will continue to make appearances at events throughout the entire year following Springfield’s anniversary.