Dear neighbours of Salmon Arm:
You broke our hearts in Sorrento when you recently adopted the slogan ‘Heart of the Shuswap,’ a slogan used in Sorrento for more than 30 years. It is disappointing in a number of ways when you consider Sorrento has used the slogan and theme for highway entrance signage, a trademarked phrase used in publications and promotions, and at proud businesses in the community.
We are all proud citizens with our links to the Shuswap; we all share the heartfelt love for our adopted home. However, Salmon Arm’s use of our slogan is wrong. A quick check on the Internet would have shown Sorrento was clearly using this slogan when the City of Salmon Arm decided to adopt it. Sorrento would never have used Gem of the Shuswap knowing it had been used in Salmon Arm.
In 2012 Sorrento celebrates it’s 100th anniversary. Sorrento is inviting everyone from around the globe to take part in the many planned events, including a homecoming invitation to all former residents and for all those who have enjoyed a Shuswap/Sorrento rendezvous. Your Sorrento neighbours respectfully request the city stop using ‘Heart of the Shuswap as its slogan as an anniversary present for the Sorrento community.
We look forward to your participation in Sorrento’s Centennial events, but most of all we hope as good neighbours you drop the theme ‘Heart of the Shuswap.’ We are confident you have many creative minds who can adopt a unique and befitting theme as the Shuswap’s hub city.
Barry Stokes, president, Sorrento & Area Community Association