The Department of Motor Vehicles is asking New York State residents to vote on new license plate designs, and four of the possible templates contain a certain Latin word comic books fans are no doubt familiar with: Excelsior.

"Excelsior" is a Latin word meaning "ever upward" or "still higher." It's the official motto of New York, appearing on the state's seal and coat of arms. In popular culture, however, it became a popular catchphrase of Marvel Comics legend Stan Lee. Lee, a native New Yorker, often used it as a signature for his "Stan's Soapbox" column, as well as in various appearances he made in media, even if he occasionally joked about not knowing what it meant, as seen below.

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While the connection to the late Stan Lee might be a coincidence, New York has certainly shown its love for him before. In fact, in July, New York City dedicated a Bronx street to Lee, co-naming University Avenue between Brandt Place and West 176th Street "Stan Lee Way." Of course, even if the new license plates were not intended to honor Lee, it's likely that people will think of him when they see "his" famous motto on the roads.

All five of the new license plates, which were developed by state employees, will now have a white or light blue background. The sole design that lacks the "Excelsior" motto instead features the Tappan Zee Bridge; three of the other choices also notably showcase the Statue of Liberty.

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According to the official polling website, to vote, you must be a New York State resident and you can only vote once. The deadline for votes is Monday, September 2, at 11:59 p.m. and the new license plates will be made available to customers sometime in April 2020.

(via NY Daily News)