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"What do you think of companies buying the naming rights to
public buildings?"
(asked at the Bellevue Regional Library on 06-11-98; published in the EJ on 06-14-98)

Barbra Barkus, Information assistant, Kent

"I think it's fine. If the company wants to spend the money, I have no problem with it. I don't think it makes a difference what something is called, as long as it's a reputable company."

Bob McAdews, 10th grader, Redmond

"I guess it's okay. I guess it's good for business. I wouldn't really pay attention. Like "KeyArena" doesn't make me want to put my money in KeyBank. I just think of it as the building."

Dick Dunwiddie, Ret'd.; Computing development, Sammamish Plateau

"I think it's great. I think, for example, that the Weyerhaeuser sponsorship of the Goodwill Games Pool in Federal Way is an excellent example of corporate sponsorship of, in this case, swimming."

Diane Vogt, Artist, Seattle

"I think if it's an architectural landmark, I don't think the name ought to be changed. I mean, naming it because the company has all the money for it -- that seems pretty inappropriate. Why not leave well enough alone? Why not do some good for a charity? If they're going to spend the money, why not make a difference in this world? Why not be known for philanthropy? That makes a lot more sense."

Abe Masiddo, Computer consultant, Seattle

"I think it's a marketing strategy on the part of the companies. They want to spread the names they're associated with. From a business point of view, it's a clever way of doing things. I think it's a rather clever strategy -- maximizing their investment and maintaining a place in the public's mind with their presence."

Ellen Wentzel, Medical bookkeeper, Bellevue

"It's purchasing power. I don't have a feeling one way or the other. Those that have the money have that power to make that decision. Whether it's right or wrong, I don't really know. I don't really have an opinion at this point -- not until it infringes upon me personally, on the things I personally care about. Then I might have stronger feelings. Then it becomes an issue."

© 1998 by the Bellevue, WA-based Eastside Journal (née Journal American) newspaper.

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