King County is putting the final touches on downtown Seattle's newest office building. But even as we prepare to celebrate the opening, there is still one thing left to do - and we need the help of King County's young citizens. Our new county building needs a name.
Last summer, the King County Council passed a motion creating a contest for young King County residents, specifically students from the seventh through ninth grade, to name the building. The rules of the contest are wide - entries can include any significant county residents past or present, as well as, but not limited to, names of groups, social movements, artifacts, symbols or activities significant to King County residents.
An independent committee will review all submissions and select three finalists based on the quality, originality, and thought put into the proposed name and explanation. The Council will vote on a final name by June.
Choosing a winner will not be easy. The entries that we are receiving reflect the great diversity of thought among our young people. Ideas range from the historical ("Isaac Stevens," the first governor of Washington Territory) to the creative ("Little Wing," a much-loved Jimi Hendrix song).
This as an opportunity to involve young people in something that will create a lasting legacy in their county. Just imagine, someday one person will eventually be able to tell his or her children: "That's my building - I named it."
If you fit the age requirements, submit an entry. If you are a parent, ask your child to imagine their idea emblazoned on the side of a downtown building. If you are a teacher, incorporate the contest into a lesson about local government. If you lead a youth group, make it a fun afternoon activity.
The deadline for the contest is April 1. For more information or to submit an entry, go to www.metrokc.gov/council. Please contact my office with any questions.
I look forward to seeing your ideas.
Bob Ferguson is a member of the King County Council and can be reached at bob.ferguson@metrokc.gov or 296-1001.
