City to Select Finalists in Name the Cow Contest

The City of Cerritos thanks everyone who participated in the Name the Cow Contest. More than 200 names - showing “udderly” delightful creativity - were submitted as suggestions to name the cow featured in the public artwork Milking Time – A Tribute to Dairy Valley.

The City will select up to 10 finalists, and the names will be announced at the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Monday, November 24. On Tuesday, November 25, the community will be invited to vote for their favorite name. A link to the voting form will be available on this webpage. The person who submitted the winning name will be recognized at a City Council meeting and awarded City keepsakes.

Milking Time – A Tribute to Dairy Valley is a new public artwork by nationally acclaimed sculptor Jane DeDecker. This series of bronze sculptures will include a farmer, his son and daughter, the family dog, and—of course—the cow, reflecting Cerritos’ agricultural roots and the enduring values of family and community. The sculptures will be installed at the Cerritos Civic Center to celebrate the City’s 70th anniversary in 2026.

Key Dates

• November 24, 2025: Finalist names unveiled at Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
• November 25, 2025 - January 16, 2026: Voting period open
• February 9, 2026: Winning name announced at City Council meeting
• February 23, 2026: Person who submitted winning name recognized at City Council meeting

About Our Cow

She was born in Dairy Valley, California, and remembered for her gentle nature. A devoted mother to two playful calves, she loved spending time in the fields—grazing with her friends, roaming the pasture, and basking in the sunshine. Treasured by the farmer’s family, she was especially loved by the children, who often brought her crisp apples and fresh carrots as treats.