Governor Endorses Whalers Vanity Plate

WETHERSFIELD, CT — Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has signed off on a new license plate that keeps the spirit of the Hartford Whalers alive through the Department of Motor Vehicles while helping the Connecticut Children's Medical Center.

"Fans of the Hartford Whalers remain some of the most dedicated in sports today ...," Malloy said, citing a large number of signatures on a petition to get the vanity plate. "I am pleased to sign legislation that will allow fans to show their pride while supporting a charitable cause like the Connecticut Children's Medical Center, which provides important medical care to children across the state."

Both the state House of Representatives and Senate passed bills earlier this month that approved Whalers vanity plates. They will be available starting in January and cost $60 along with other appropriate registration fees. It is now Public Act 17-79.

A portion of the proceeds from the special plates will go to CCMC, according to the bill, which was sponsored by House Majority Leader Matt Ritter of Hartford; state Rep. Antonio Guerrera, who represents Rocky Hill and parts of Wethersfield and Newington; and state Rep. Kurt Vail, who represents Somers and Stafford.

On April 13, 1997, the Whalers played their last game in Hartford, defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning 2–1. They then packed up and moved to North Carolina.

Patch Graphic: Kristin Borden