Naming the Underwater Cable

I noticed a contest published in the paper near the end of summer. Orcas Power and Light Co-op (OPALCO, as we call it) wanted ideas of what to name the underwater cable they were installing. The person who submitted the winning name would get a free day trip to go see the installation process.

I love contests and our boys are always curious about the world, so I knew they’d enjoy this trip if they won. I asked our older son to think of a name that implied unfailing strength. You see, we need cables that will stand up to the elements so that Orcas Island doesn’t lose power for days. He had read a series of books about Greek and Roman gods, so I suggested he think of one of their names. He said, “Zeus!” Great!

Then I went to our younger son and asked him to think of something with great power. I remarked that it would be too bad if a fake god won the title. So he said, “How about God?” I told him that I didn’t think OPALCO would choose that. So he said, “Well then, Yahweh!” I laughed.

In our entries went and the days passed by.

After a few weeks, I was curious to see who won, so I left a message at OPALCO. The woman in charge of the contest called us back and informed us that, though neither of the boys’ names was chosen, several of the runners up who were invited on the day trip couldn’t make it. Would we like to go in their stead? Oooh, yes, thank you!

I had no high expectations of the day. I figured it could be wet, danky, clammy, and windy, especially if we were on a small metal boat. Well, well, well… We arrived at the dock to board quite the luxurious accommodation for the day, thanks to a couple we know who offered their boat for the tour. I’m not sure I paid as much attention to the cable as I did the boat we were in. It was quite a treat on a beautifully sunny day, munching on gourmet snacks while sitting in the dry, cozy-warm cabin, surrounded by only the best of everything.

The boys got a tour of the immaculate engine room and Erin Bennett and Emily Abdon of Orcas Video added to the fun when they broke out a drone to document the event. That was a hit. They even interviewed our older son for OPALCO’s promotional materials.

The winner of the contest submitted the name “George Goff Memorial Cable,” after the San Juan District line superintendent who had worked for 34 years building the electric system. The cable will be called “George,” and we looked on as the video folks interviewed George Goff’s grandson, who had been invited as a special guest on the trip.

Thank you OPALCO and Jeff & Diane! It was quite a day.