Why Everett doesn't have an iconic monument (when we can get it for free)

During my travel to Barranquilla, Colombia, I was struck by the beauty of three stunning monuments known as "Las Tres Hermanas" or "The three sisters."

Ventana al Mundo, Ventana de Sueños, and Ventana de Campeones. These monuments have given that city identity and character. They’ve become a symbol of pride, with hundreds of tourists taking photos at all hours of the day. One of them even serves as a lighthouse.

Curious, I did some research—and to my surprise, I discovered that these monuments weren’t built with taxpayer money. They were funded by private companies and then donated to the city.

That got me thinking: Why would a company spend money building something for a city?

Well, consider this—businesses already spend millions on advertising and public relations. They have a budget for that, so a beautiful, permanent monument with their name attached? That’s not just good branding, it’s beloved by the public. It’s a win-win.

Then I asked myself: Why doesn’t Everett have something like this?

Imagine a bold, instagrammeable and eye-catching landmark that truly represents us—something we can be proud of, that brings jobs, attracts visitors, and becomes a symbol of our shared identity.

That’s why we are launching a community design contest, with cash prizes for the top three ideas. The designs will be created by Everett residents and voted on by Everett residents. Contest details below.

Monument for Everett Contest – $1,000 in Prizes!

Everett deserves a monument that reflects its soul, its history, and its people — and we want YOU to help shape it.

We’re inviting Everett residents, 18 and older, to submit their own monument design between April 10 and May 10, 2025 for a chance to win $500, $300, or $200!

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HOW TO ENTER

Send your original monument design, along with your full name and Everett address, to:

alanrubioprd@gmail.com

Designs can be digital or hand-drawn — just make sure they clearly show your idea and vision.

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PRIZES

1st Place: $500

2nd Place: $300

3rd Place: $200

Winners will receive their cash prize and public recognition for their creativity and contribution.

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CONTEST PROCESS

1. A panel of 10 judges will review all submitted designs.

2. Judges will select the Top 10 based on:

Originality

Feasibility

Visual and cultural style

3. These top designs will then be presented for a public vote, where the community will help choose the final winners.

4. The 3 designs with the most public votes will win 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place respectively.

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DESIGN NOTES & HINTS

Your design doesn’t have to be complex — it just needs heart.

Simpler concepts with powerful symbolism are welcome.

Pro tip: Take inspiration from the Three Sisters statues in Barranquilla, Colombia. That aesthetic may earn extra favour with some judges.

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WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU WIN?

The winning design may be modified slightly to meet city safety and construction standards. Your name will be credited for the original design even if changes are made. If the monument is built, we will do our best to make sure your vision is honoured.

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LEGAL & OTHER DETAILS

You must be 18 or older and a current Everett resident to participate.

Only one entry per person.

By entering, you give us permission to share your design publicly and use it in promotional materials, even if you don’t win.

The winners are responsible for any taxes tied to their prizes.

Entries must be your own original work.

Submissions that include hateful, vulgar, or copyrighted material will be disqualified.

Organisers reserve the right to cancel, delay, or adjust contest rules if necessary.

Winners will be contacted by May 20, 2025. If a winner does not respond within 5 days, the prize may be given to another participant.

This contest is governed by the laws of the State of Washington.

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Need more info or want to see sample designs?

Comment below or message directly. We want this monument to be something the community builds together — and this is just the start.

Let’s make Everett iconic.

Let’s come together and create something unforgettable—something we can all say we helped bring to life.