The University of Washington has its Husky dog; the Seahawks have their bird, yet nobody, is likely to have a "Sea Serpent" hanging around their waterfront-- except Des Moines folks.

Picture this huge sea serpent image in bright colors, spotlighted, sitting on top of the Des Moines Marina breakwater with the critter's long tail inter-twined among the rocks. Consider that vision as a landmark identifying a welcoming, interesting harbor to passing boaters, tourists, large ships and landlubbers, too.

The idea for a sea serpent is from Jack Deblauw, architecture graduate participant in the University of Washington Storefront Study. The students identified projects that could connect downtown Des Moines to the marina, thus making both more accessible and attractive.

Mayor Bob Sheckler said, "When the Storefront Study presentation including the sea serpent was made at city council's July 17th meeting, council members seemed to like the idea. I still like it and haven't met anyone who doesn't like it."

After that presentation, Mayor Sheckler complimented Jack Deblauw, saying, "Maybe the name of the sea serpent should be "Jack."

In actuality, as Sheckler later explained, naming the critter will be up to the community, perhaps in a contest including school children.

"Friendliness and welcoming is the sea serpent's profile and that image must be in the chosen name," Sheckler noted. "Imagine the fantastic ideas our school kids and community might come up with."

So, rest assured this sea serpent is one friendly critter. There won't be any flaming fire from its mouth or unruly wags from its giant tail. This fella (or lady) is just one great big overgrown, really unique, friendly, one-of-a kind symbol/icon that may find a lifetime career of caretaker at Des Moines Harbor--likely the only USA waterfront city known to have a harbor sea serpent.

That matchless prospect ought to persuade most folks away from TV to see this phenomenon.

The Storefront Study resulted in outstanding drawings, pictures and recommendations for serious, yet uncomplicated improvements that city officials will peruse for implementation.

These students saw malls, shops, trees, signs, entry focus and building upgrades compatible with existing structures that can upscale the downtown to an attractive, practical destination point. They also shared their suggestions individually with business owners.

The physical image of a sea serpent does not yet exist, except within the mind of its creator, Jack Deblauw, yet it fires up public imagination, bringing fun and anticipation to this heady project.

The focused result of the downtown/marina connection makeover is amazing. And thanks to City Manager, Tony Piasecki, you can view these remarkable Storefront Study student drawings at City Hall, 21630 11th Ave. S. during business hours but no later than 3 p.m.

How did this whole study come to Des Moines and who's paying the bill?

The project started about three years ago when King County Councilwoman Julia Patterson provided a $7,000 grant from the Office of Economic Development to be used for a downtown facade improvement. Des Moines Councilwoman Susan White helped obtain the funding.

Then Mayor Sheckler held his first Leadership Summit of community members that resulted in a Destination Des Moines working committee. Member Debra Jackson saw a newspaper article about the U of W Architectural Study group working with Kent and Renton and she told Patrice Thorell, parks director. Patrice contacted U of W Architect Professor Jim Nicholls, whose students did the study.

With King County's $7,000 funding and research by Thorell and city planning manager Denise Lathrup and other city staff, Des Moines Council approved $5,000 to budget the project.

Sen. Karen Keiser is enthusiastic as well, Thorell said, and would consider a state proposal for the serpent art.

"From a tiny seed, the mighty Chestnut tree grows."

Nicholls' students blended yesterdays' visions of Des Moines future into today's reality and tools, for tomorrow's world.

Results? Amazing!

The sea serpent piece will likely not be applauded by all, yet in the vision of boaters, local residents, wide-eyed children, appreciative visitors and folks in passing ships, it may the inviting symbol to Des Moines safe and welcoming city. And that's just dandy!

Today's Thought: "Don't dump the donkey unless you're ready to carry the load."(Anonymous)