A jokester recently erected several signs around Federal Way with my name as a write-in candidate for city council.
I appreciate and respect the commitment required to run for election in Federal Way, let alone serve in public office. But to set the record straight, I am not running for council. For one thing, I live outside Federal Way city limits. Besides, I have more fun reporting news rather than making news.
In the spirit of sparking discussion, here are suggestions for better write-in candidates, in no particular order, regardless of whether they live in Federal Way. Got a suggestion for a local write-in candidate in this election? Let us know.
1. Nandell Palmer: In his regular column in The Mirror, Palmer eloquently addresses the local cultural pulse with a sincere and uplifting message. As one reader said, “I always feel a little cleaner after reading his column.” An example of Palmer’s selfless devotion to making Federal Way a better place is his annual “I Celebrate You” festival, which honors the unsung heroes of everyday life.
2. Monda Holsinger: The head honcho of Federal Way’s AmeriCorps program has the midas touch for helping people and places. One prime example is the program’s consistent attention to the low-income Westway neighborhood, whether through organizing mini-festivals, painting fences or picking up trash.
3. Tom Murphy: The former Federal Way School District superintendent still walks on water in the minds of some residents. When he talks, people listen. At one point, the intelligent and charismatic Murphy could have been considered Federal Way’s unofficial alpha male.
4. Keith Richards: I know, I know. The legendary guitarist for The Rolling Stones obviously lives outside Federal Way. But just imagine the crowds at council meetings. His trademark chain-smoking, mumbling and cursing would really spice up the city. Maybe he can write “Gimme Shelter in Federal Way” and capture the current chaotic spirit of the times in this city.
5. Your name: After all, it’s the name you know best.
Crystal Palace amateur analysis
There has been mixed discussion on the proposed Crystal Palace slated for a vacant parking lot in downtown Federal Way. While not set in stone, the proposal calls for a landmark that is daringly different. That is a good thing.
The glass arms that sprout from the multi-use building have attracted criticisms for tackiness.That said, the design is much easier to stomach than, say, the LSD-inspired patchwork shell of Seattle’s Experience Music Project (EMP).
The city’s best chance to judge the building’s artistic merit is after it’s built. That is the chance Federal Way should take. However, Federal Way leaders must avoid the urge to play it safe by settling with a common design. The Crystal Palace embodies the type of eccentricity the city needs to stand apart from the rest.
The real beauty in this scenario, if the design moves forward, is the city’s willingness to walk to the beat of its own drum.
