Jimi, we finally know you

A Seattle public park likely soon will bear the name of Jimi Hendrix, a rock icon and one of Seattle's most famous citizens. This tribute is long overdue.

The only existing official memorial to Hendrix is a series of rocks and viewpoint at the zoo, lovingly dedicated by fans many years ago. More should be done to honor the memory of a talented musician from an inspired music generation. Thanks to work by City Councilwoman Jean Godden, Jimi Hendrix Park would be located in the Central Area next to the old Colman School, which is becoming the new Northwest African American Museum.

The museum's mission is to celebrate the lives and contributions of local African Americans, and the former Garfield High School student belongs in the mix.

Hendrix died in 1970 from a mix of alcohol and sleeping pills and has never been forgotten. Paul Allen's Experience Music Project is in part a tribute to Seattle's favorite rock star.

Godden's unanimously supported resolution recommends naming the park after the rock icon. Parks Superintendent Ken Bounds makes the final decision, with advice from a park-naming committee. Bounds should go along and is expected to do so.

Godden's plan, appropriately, calls for moving a privately owned bronze statue of Hendrix now on Broadway to the new park. The statue's owner appears willing to move it to the park.

When the park opens in a few weeks, take the kids, have a good time and remember one of the greatest rock legends. It is about time he received this kind of official recognition from his hometown.