Borough Beeswax: Buzzing About the Michael Landon Memorial

A plaque dedicated to the late actor and Collingswood native Michael Landon disappeared from the some time after it was removed by the borough during a November 5 of .

The case of the memorial has taken on a national profile in the wake of an uproar from Landon fans worldwide, but , given that the borough resident who reportedly recovered the plaque has long been a vocal opponent of Mayor James Maley. Collingswood Police into the matter.

Borough Beeswax asked Collingswood residents for their take on the issue.

“[The plaque] is a nice way to remember [Landon],” said Jeanne Sylvester. She added that the entire fiasco must be “almost like sacrilege” for Landon’s family and those close to the memorial.

Sylvester also said that the borough should try to improve security measures around any future site of the memorial.

At The Painted Cottage, Nancy Reese remarked that “it wasn’t that long ago” that the Landon plaque was erected, thanks to the fundraising efforts of local Landon fan, .

“I remember when it happened,” Reese said. She remarked that because Landon loved children, the commemoration of a playground in his honor made sense.

Reese also added that she knew Landon “wasn’t happy with his treatment [as a child] in Collingswood,” but said that was understandable.

“Times have changed,” Reese said, but she thinks the plaque “should remain” in Collingswood.

Mike Burke agrees.

“I would think it should go back [to Knight Park],” Burke said, although he confessed that he’d “never even seen” the memorial, “or if I have, I haven’t realized it.”

“They need measures to protect something like this,” from being misplaced in the future, Burke said.

“There’s probably simple ways to keep it from happening again,” said Sarah Hanst.

Outside the , Hanst and Matt Schmid discussed the thickening plot surrounding the disappearance of the Landon plaque, including the possibility of its role in a confrontation between Collingswood Mayor James Maley and borough resident Joseph Dinella.

“If this is some politically motivated thing,” said Schmid, “that’s a very sad way to make a point.”

“I hope that’s not what it is,” added Hanst.

What do you think? Should the plaque be reinstalled somewhere in town? Where? And do you think the hubbub has political aspects? Tell us in the comments.