Halo Is Removed From Joe Paterno's Picture on State College Mural
By: Eyewitness News
Updated: July 16, 2012
Michael Pilato says removing the halo was one of the hardest things he's ever had to do. "He wasn't the one that did this terrible thing," Pilato said.
What remains now is a blue ribbon on Joe Paterno's chest, which Pilato says represents child sexual abuse awareness. Something he says Paterno symbolized. "He was all about other people. He was about the kids and a better tomorrow," Pilato said. "Joe did not intend for those young men to be raped and he wasn't hiding for the football program."
Spectator Vince Hall says he doesn't think the halo should have been removed. "I've known Joe personally and Sue, Jay and Scott. All great people," Hall said.
Others disagree. "He's not a saint and he made mistakes and I'm glad it was removed," spectator Carolyn Kummer said.
Pilato says no matter what your opinion, it's time for the community to move forward. "Let's work together to make sure that this terrible thing that happens to one out of every four women and one out of every ten boys never happens again," Pilato said.
