CITY OF SEATTLE
RESOLUTION __________________
title
A RESOLUTION providing an honorary designation of Union St between 21st and 22nd Streets as “D’Vonne Pickett Jr. Way.”
body
WHEREAS, D’Vonne Pickett Jr.’s personal philosophy of life inspired his vision and commitment which was a driving force in empowering the Central District and surrounding neighborhoods, as well as other cities in the United States and around the world touched by his presence and inspiration; and
WHEREAS, one of D’Vonne’s biggest accomplishments to date was the opening of The Postman back in August 2018, named in commemoration of his great grandfather, Jacques Chappell, retired from the US Postal Service after 37+ years, a business D’Vonne had made into an essential center of community within the Central District and the entire Seattle community; and
WHEREAS, D’Vonne started playing football for the Central District Panthers at an early age and continued investing much time, love, and energy to the Panther family and community as assistant coach, promoted to head coach in 2022; D’Vonne’s beloved children, D’Vonne III and Khloe, also embodied Panther pride - D’Vonne III as a member of the team coached by his father and Khloe as an enthusiastic member of the Panthers cheerleading squad; and
WHERAS, D’Vonne embodied and internalized the belief of being “HEAVY” over airy in all of his endeavors, particularly in his role as a family patriarch, as a mentor and a friend to almost everyone he encountered throughout life, a sentiment he often uniquely expressed in the form of his favorite catchphrase, “Stop Playin!”; and
WHEREAS, D’Vonne’s efforts have allowed his community and residents of other Seattle neighborhoods to view life in a significant and meaningful way that is aligned with all of our life’s divine purpose; “My value to everyone I reach is sacred. My people follow my lead in so many ways. It’s enlightening to be such a magnetic soul,” as D’Vonne Pickett Jr. embraced this role and the responsibilities that come with it; and
WHEREAS, the relationships and connections D’Vonne cultivated throughout his journey have created numerous opportunities for him, his life, and legacy. D’Vonne aspired to keep communities connected in as many forms as possible; he was devoted to making sure his time spent on earth was spent usefully; and
WHEREAS, The City of Seattle recognizes the leadership and significance of D’Vonne Pickett Jr.’s selfless service and sacrifice to the entire Emerald City that expresses its appreciation for his contributions to the Central District and Seattle community at large; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEATTLE, THE MAYOR CONCURRING, THAT:
Section 1. E Union St. between 21st and 22nd Avenues shall have an honorary designation as “D’Vonne Pickett Jr. Way.”
Section 2. The Council requests that the Seattle Department of Transportation manufacture, install, and maintain honorary signs along E Union St between 21st and 22nd Avenues, which shall reflect the “D’Vonne Pickett Jr. Way” honorary designation.
Adopted by the City Council the ________ day of _________________________, 2023, and signed by me in open session in authentication of its adoption this ________ day of _________________________, 2023.
____________________________________
President ____________ of the City Council
The Mayor concurred the ________ day of _________________________, 2023.
____________________________________
Bruce A. Harrell, Mayor
Filed by me this ________ day of _________________________, 2023.
____________________________________
Elizabeth M. Adkisson, Interim City Clerk
(Seal)