Students return from break to brand-new schools SNOHOMISH - The kids at Riverview and Machias elementaries got to explore their new digs for the first time this week when they returned to school. Construction work is finishing up at both schools. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Jan. 5, 2011
Many workers in county still without jobs EVERETT - One out of 10 people in Snohomish County who are employable are out of work, and more than 500,000 people statewide are receiving unemployment benefits. Snohomish County represented slightly more than 55,000 people who received unemployment benefits. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Jan. 5, 2011
Library now offering e-books EVERETT - Your friend has been bugging you to read Malcolm Gladwell’s “Outliers.” You’ll love it, he says. But it’s after the holidays and you’re busy; too busy to take a trip out to the mall or library. More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published Jan. 5, 2011
Group forms to scale down size of Walmart MONROE - A grassroots group against a proposed Walmart at North Kelsey debuted last week, and while its leader acknowledges it cannot stop the retail giant from moving in, the group plans to try to cut it down in size and stall the project. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Jan. 5, 2011
January 12, 2011
EVERETT
Co-op links farmers to consumers EVERETT - When the documentary “Food Inc.” debuted on the Big Screen, many people started to question where their food came from and how it was produced. More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published Jan. 12, 2011
Housing Hope finds new ways to help people EVERETT - The nonprofit Housing Hope launched a new organization that provides employment to low-income families and launched a second initiative that guides families through college as part of a big kickoff event last week. More...
For some, city’s changing business climate troubling MONROE - With a lingerie shop downtown and a Walmart coming to North Kelsey and possibly a strip club opening in the Fryelands, some residents are starting to publicly voice concerns about the city’s future. More...
Speakers share King’s message EVERETT - Despite the snow, some still showed up to hear local performers share through song, spoken word and video clips what Martin Luther King Jr.’s life’s work means to them. More...
Residents speak out against Walmart MONROE - Just under a dozen residents showed up to the City Council meeting last week to express their disappointment with the council’s decision to allow a Walmart superstore to build in the North Kelsey shopping area. More...
Eating locally-grown food helps woman lose weight EVERETT - Cascade High School principal Cathy Woods has always been active. She’s also been supportive of local farmers and conscious of environmental impacts. When she combined the two for Lent, she found a long-awaited solution for losing weight. More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published Jan. 26, 2011
Monroe
Residents protest Walmart outside City Hall
Downtown shop owners don’t want Walmart; North Kelsey owners welcome retailer MONROE - People have mixed opinions on the proposed Walmart Supercenter at North Kelsey. While finding a downtown business owner in support of Walmart is hard to come by, others closer to the site’s location the Tribune spoke with are more supportive. More...
City Manager Larry Bauman a finalist for Shoreline job SNOHOMISH - City Manager Larry Bauman is one of three finalists for the city manager position in the city of Shoreline.
Shoreline’s selection may come as quickly as the start of this week after press time. More...
Police step up patrols in areas hit by string of burglaries SNOHOMISH - Police Chief John Turner assured a large number of residents that the Police Department is taking extra measures in response to a string of burglaries at homes on Avenue H and businesses along the Avenue D corridor in a community meeting at Snohomish High School last week. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Jan. 26, 2011
February, 2011
February 2, 2011
EVERETT
Formerly homeless, volunteer helps in count EVERETT - A little more than 2,200 homeless people were counted last week during the annual Point In Time Count, which collects information on the homeless situation in Washington state communities. More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published Feb. 2, 2011
Kimberly-Clark selling pulp mill EVERETT - The Kimberly-Clark Corporation said they are selling the Everett mill, which currently employs 842 people. More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published Feb. 2, 2011
City buys land for small park EVERETT - The city bought a small piece of property at 528 Madison St. for a park and forest preservation. More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published Feb. 2, 2011
MONROE
Prison guard found dead MONROE - A corrections officer who had expressed concerns about working alone was found dead Jan. 29 at the Monroe Correctional Complex. More...
By TRIBUNE STAFF
Published Feb. 2, 2011
Eyman, Tea Party want vote on cameras MONROE - Anti-tax crusader Tim Eyman wants to force Monroe to have a public vote on traffic cameras and launched an initiative petition seeking to block them last week. More...
Volunteers count homeless SNOHOMISH - Volunteers fanned out last week to count homeless people living in Snohomish County. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Feb. 2, 2011
February 09, 2011
Doug Ramsay photo
The Farm’s late founder Bruce Karr’s grandson James Daniel, 11, trims a fruit tree at The Farm Feb. 5. That day, 35 volunteers spent the day gardening, cleaning up flood damage and repairing damage to the facility’s main tent.
Corrections officer’s murder raises questions about safety MONROE - The death of a corrections officer Jan. 29 is raising new questions about officer safety in the state’s prison system and revealing new details about funding levels at the Department of Corrections. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Feb. 9, 2011
What happened to North Kelsey vision? MONROE - In 2003, the city adopted a subarea plan depicting North Kelsey as an upscale, community-oriented, pedestrian-friendly mall. Almost a decade later, the site has a Lowe’s big-box store and a proposed 155,000-square-foot Walmart Supercenter. More...
Suspect confesses to killing corrections officer EVERETT - The primary suspect in the Jan. 29 killing of corrections officer Jayme Biendl has confessed to police, according to court documents filed late last week. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Feb. 16, 2011
Valley General looks for partner MONROE - Valley General Hospital is looking for a partner to increase health care services, gain access to more doctors and specialists and professional training, hospital officials said last week. More...
Smith Island restoration coming along EVERETT - After three years of efforts to restore the land, people can walk along gravel trails and observe nature around the Smith Island Estuary Restoration site. More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published Feb. 16, 2011
District finalizing plans to go from 3 to 2 middle schools MONROE - As the district considers closing Monroe Middle School and consolidating the middle schools into two schools, parents are talking with district officials about which school their children will attend. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Feb. 16, 2011
Courthouse design raises cost of project EVERETT - A contemporary design for the new municipal courthouse building was presented to the City Council Feb. 9. The design will include materials that will highlight Everett’s historical design styles. More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published Feb. 16, 2011
Council comes around to sign onto tourism plan MONROE - The City Council reluctantly decided to join a countywide tourism marketing plan that the hotel industry wanted.
The plan assesses a $1 a night fee on large hotels, and the money will go toward tourism marketing. The fee will not cost the city or residents anything. More...
A broken fence sits across the former Burlington Northern Santa Fe train tracks on the Snohomish River Bridge near First Street. The tracks, once rehabilitated, could be a future route into Snohomish for a possible tourist train.
The parking lot to the right of the downtown police station, left, sits on the southeast corner of Colby Avenue and Wall Street and will be the location of a new Marriott Courtyard hotel.
Construction begins soon on city block EVERETT - One square block of downtown Everett will be under major construction beginning this summer and will close down streets and eliminate parking for more than a year. More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published Feb. 23, 2011
Save Our Communities takes message to YouTube MUKILTEO - Save Our Communities is taking its opposition message to commercial flights at Paine Field to YouTube as the Federal Aviation Administration prepares to release a final report on impacts. More...
Suspect asks for death in prison guard killing MONROE - The inmate who admitted to killing corrections officer Jayme Biendl Jan. 29 told investigators he wants the death penalty, court documents released last week say. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published March 2, 2011
Program focuses on going to college EVERETT - For these Everett High School students, college wasn’t seen as something that was possible when they entered middle school. Five years later and after completing the AVID program, these seniors are filling out college applications. More...
Port commission open to reviewing 2004 development plan EVERETT - The Port of Everett’s multimillion dollar waterfront redevelopment project that once promised a mix of luxurious condos, boutique shops, marine-related businesses and public spaces is almost back on the port’s agenda More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published March 2, 2011
March 9, 2011
EVERETT
Cascade High grad shows film “Unbeaten” EVERETT - James Wilson, a sophomore at Arlington High School, is an artistic teen who is inspired by animals. He makes clay elephants, bears and toucans. His patience with the clay shows in his artwork. He’s also quick. In one art class, he needed to complete 18 projects. He turned in 44. More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published March 9, 2011
School district seeks comment on what to cut EVERETT - For the third year in a row, the Everett School District has to cut its budget as a result of the economic collapse. This time, the district is planning for a possible $6.5 million cut. More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published March 9, 2011
City to install rain gardens in Northwest neighborhood to address flooding issues CORRECTED VERSION - The March 2, 2011 printed story identified the wrong neighborhood the flooding and project is taking place in. EVERETT - The city is trying out a new rain garden program to lessen flooding in north Everett. The City Council last week approved the construction of six rain gardens. More...
Finance director recommends tax increases MUKILTEO - To address projected deficits in the city’s general fund over the next three years, the City Council will consider raising property, water and sewer taxes later this month. More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published March 9, 2011
SNOHOMISH
Transportation board questions rail operator SNOHOMISH - The rail operator who wants to bring a tourist train to town and has been hauled into bankruptcy court was grilled by the city’s transportation benefit district board March 1. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published March 9, 2011
Pilchuck District ordinance ready for vote SNOHOMISH - A decision on an ordinance that will set development rules designed to revitalize a neighborhood is anticipated at the March 15 City Council meeting. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published March 9, 2011
March 16, 2011
Kailee Johnston, 8, of Monroe and her mother Karrie (center) wave to motorists on U.S. 2 at North Kelsey Street in Monroe on March 12. The Johnstons, along with up to 100 protesters throughout the day, waved signs at the intersection to bring awareness to the city’s upcoming vote on a development site plan for a 155,000 square foot Walmart superstore at North Kelsey. It was the third weekend in a row protesters have been gathering at the intersection. The City Council is holding a public hearing on the site plan Tuesday, March 15 at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 806 W. Main St.
Charges filed in corrections officer’s death MONROE - Snohomish County Prosecutor Mark Roe is close to deciding whether to seek the death penalty for convicted rapist Byron Scherf who prosecutors believe killed Monroe Correctional Complex corrections officer Jayme Biendl Jan. 29. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published March 16, 2011
City applies for grant to fix south dock MUKILTEO - The future location of Lighthouse Park’s boat launch is still up in the air, but the city is moving forward on replacing the launch’s problem dock. More...
By ALENA ONWEILER
Published March 16, 2011
Residents comment on cameras MONROE - Residents got a chance last week to tell the City Council what they think about speeding and red-light cameras while petitioners say they don’t have enough signatures yet to put the issue to voters. More...
Pieces of Collins Building going to Coupeville EVERETT - The Port of Everett has seven groups lined up to salvage pieces of the historic Collins Building.
The port is selling wood beams and windows for use in other historic buildings across the state. More...
Then: Alcazar Building, circa 1915 — The Crippen family is pictured showing off their conversion of the former Alcazar Theater into the Eastside Garage, reputably the first automobile repair service in Snohomish. Mrs. Crippen seems to be striking a pose on the balcony as one of the showgirls from the building’s past. Built in the popular frontier box-house style of variety theater in 1892, very few remain standing today. A rough and tumble saloon and theater when it first opened, the business model fell victim to the nationwide economic crash of 1893. With the turn of the century, however, the facility was used for local productions presented to benefit the public library.
Now: Alcazar Building, 2011 — Currently owned by Jim McGinty, who lives next door, the rare historic structure has been in his family since the 1960s. It is home to an antique store these days, open only on weekends. “Alcazar” is a Spanish term for castle or palace, which was borrowed from the Arabic “alqasr.” Our local historic treasure could have been named after the famous San Francisco’s Alcazar Theater, built in 1885.
Jim McGinty, long-term owner of the run-down Alcazar Theater building at 609 First Street, claims it is the most photographed historic structure in Snohomish. “So why change it?” he asks. More...
March 23, 2011
Doug Ramsay photo
Directing her comments at Walmart representatives, Stashka Lepera holds a petition with signatures of people opposed to a Walmart in North Kelsey.
Prosecutor will seek death EVERETT - Snohomish County Prosecutor Mark Roe will seek the death penalty for Byron Scherf if he is found guilty of strangling Monroe Correctional Complex corrections officer Jayme Biendl, Roe announced at a press conference March 15. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published March 23, 2011
Council wants review of television department EVERETT - The City Council questioned the city’s plans for upgrading its television operations and wants to know why the television department is sitting on $1.7 million that could be spent on more meeting coverage. More...
City of Everett greenhouse manager Dee Drake (center) talks with longtime greenhouse volunteers Alma Sand, 94, (left) and Dorothy Meyer, 83, during a March 16 work session. The two volunteers, along with 10 others, were transferring plants into containers, which will be used in one of the hanging flower baskets that will decorate the streets of Everett this spring and summer.
Federal report suggests pepper spray, body alarms MONROE - Gov. Chris Gregoire is urging state lawmakers to improve corrections officers safety inside the state’s prison system by implementing federal recommendations. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published March 30, 2011
MUKILTEO
Council debates tax increases, furloughs MUKILTEO - The Mukilteo City Council is mulling whether to raise property and utility taxes and whether to implement furloughs to help catch up with the city’s spending habits. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published March 30, 2011
Council punts camera decision MUKILTEO - The City Council shifted a decision on whether to change its rules on traffic cameras to align with voters’ wishes from a November initiative to one of its committees for further review. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published March 30, 2011
SNOHOMISH
Heroin: Community’s ‘ugly menace’ SNOHOMISH - A recent surge in heroin use among students was the topic of a community meeting at Snohomish High School last week. More...
School board hears what to cut, save EVERETT - Everett School District board members heard from the public during a one-on-one roundtable forum last week on how people want to shape next year’s budget. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published April 6, 2011
MONROE
Council ready to sign with Walmart MONROE - Walmart is one step closer to building a 155,845-square-foot supercenter in North Kelsey, a site once envisioned as a community-oriented, pedestrian-friendly shopping district with a mix of small retail, restaurants, offices and gathering space. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published April 6, 2011
Double-digit rate hike needed to pay for plant upgrades MONROE - Council members held their noses and approved an annual 14 percent sewer rate increase over the next four years to help fund upgrades to the city’s wastewater treatment plant. More...
FCC approves second radio station in Snohomish River Valley SNOHOMISH - A longtime fight over radio towers in the Snohomish River Valley may be nearly over after the Federal Communications Commission approved a new AM radio station requested by the Skotdal family last month. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published April 6, 2011
First Heritage Bank working on recapitalization plan SNOHOMISH - Snohomish’s First Heritage Bank, which has been deemed “significantly undercapitalized” by the federal government, expects to come to a successful resolution, bank president Cathy Reines said last week. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published April 6, 2011
April 13, 2011
Everett’s blossoming arts district EVERETT - Standing on the roof of the new ArtSpace Everett Lofts on Hoyt Avenue, Liam Cole says the city is on the cusp of becoming an international arts scene. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published April 13, 2011
City loses last of its planning staff MONROE - The city lost the last of its planning staff over the last few weeks when both planners left for new jobs in nearby cities.
The empty planning division won’t affect the city’s pending deal with Walmart, city officials said last week. The council is on the verge of approving a development agreement with the giant retailer. The vote was scheduled for April 12. More...
Council to vote on bicycle master plan EVERETT - Cyclists will be happy to hear the Everett City Council may soon sign off on a master plan that maps out more bicycle routes for Everett. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published April 13, 2011
April 20, 2011
Earth Day events focus on local food, farming SNOHOMISH - People can calculate their carbon footprint, learn about growing their own groceries and sample locally produced food and clothing this week at area Earth Day events. More...
ABATE cancels May bike show EVERETT - Motorcycles will not be rumbling downtown this May after the show’s organizers couldn’t find enough sponsors in the tight economy. More...
Everett TV policy up for discussion EVERETT - The City Council booted a decision on how to change policy regarding how it funds its television department. The council will discuss the issue this week.
In short, council members are mulling over questions about television policy, coverage and funding. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published April 20, 2011
THEN AND NOW,
One hundred years ago, an airplane took off from the Harvey Baseball Park and crash-landed in a newly plowed field about a half-mile down river. It was all over in less than a minute, but the photographer William Douglas needed only fractions of a second to capture the historic event. More...
By WARNER BLAKE
special to the Tribune
Published April 20, 2011
April 27, 2011
Doug Ramsay photo
Sun shines on Easter celebration SNOHOMISH - The clouds and rain gave way to beautiful spring weather as people crowded along First Street in Snohomish April 23 for the 31st annual Easter parade and bonnet contest.
Above, Megan Mobley, 8, (left) and Isabella Nuttall, 9, talk as they wait for the start of the bonnet contest. This year’s contest attracted nearly 100 entries, including a number of dogs and two calves.
Citing operating costs, district halts pool project SNOHOMISH - A $22 million aquatic center that was to break ground this summer at the Snohomish School District’s Maple Avenue Campus may not be built within the city anymore and could be delayed until next year, Superintendent Bill Mester said last week. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published April 27, 2011
Residents challenge Walmart approval MONROE - A Walmart development was approved earlier this month by the City Council, and opponents expect to eventually challenge that decision in Snohomish County Superior Court. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published April 27, 2011
Delta residents to get clean soil EVERETT - Delta Neighborhood residents: state Department of Ecology officials will be knocking on your door in the coming months with an offer that some neighbors say you shouldn’t refuse. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published April 27, 2011
Neighbors clash with port over train noise EVERETT - Residents overlooking the Port of Everett already agitated by noise from a rail line below their homes raised concern over the port’s plans to add a short rail line this fall. More...
Hospital wants bigger sign EVERETT - How big should a hospital logo be?
Providence Regional Medical Center Everett wants to add big signs on the sides of its new hospital tower at its Colby Avenue campus. Providence is asking for logos larger than city code allows. More...
City Council upholds Walmart decision MONROE - The City Council last week upheld its decision to allow Walmart to build a supercenter in North Kelsey after briefly considering residents’ motions to reconsider its decision. More...
District may need to lay off 41 teachers SNOHOMISH - To answer another round of state cuts to local education funding, the Snohomish School District is considering eliminating up to 55 positions next year, including 41 teachers. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published May 4, 2011
City hosts first-ever Cinco de Mayo festival SNOHOMISH - Organizers for Snohomish’s inaugural Cinco de Mayo Fiesta, May 7, are putting the finishing touches on the fiesta and hoping for sun that day, event co-chair Carmen Flores said last week. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published May 4, 2011
School board agrees to halt pool project SNOHOMISH - The Snohomish School Board last week unanimously approved the superintendent’s request to halt work on the district’s aquatic center. More...
City releases master plan for Senator Henry M. Jackson Park EVERETT - Senator Henry M. Jackson Park is due for a makeover.
In a master plan for the 15-acre park released in March, Jackson Park will include almost every use imaginable when it gets redeveloped later this decade. More...
Taxes will help close budget gap MUKILTEO - The city’s budget gap policy, used to reign in overspending, was passed by the City Council 4-2 last week. More...
Sewer pipeline route selected SNOHOMISH - The city is one step closer to complying with regulatory standards for treating sewage after the City Council last week approved where to put a $40 million wastewater pipeline that will send sewage to Everett. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published May 11, 2011
May 18, 2011
EVERETT
Film festival adds arts option EVERETT - It was the closing moments of a phone call that led to bringing the world-recognized Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) to Everett. More...
City will start issuing tickets from traffic cameras soon MONROE - Four traffic cameras the City Council approved back in 2007 will soon start ticketing drivers.
A driver captured on camera speeding or running red lights will receive an automated traffic citation in the mail. More...
Should city raise property tax to save police, keep parks open? SNOHOMISH - The parks and police are safe, for now. The city will solicit public input soon to see if property owners would be willing to share the cost of keeping the parks open and the police locally controlled. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published May 18, 2011
May 25, 2011
Aaden Tarin, 2, of Lake Stevens (left) and Colton Perry, 6, of Snohomish climb on a Snohomish Fire District 4 fire engine May 21 at a dedication ceremony and open house for the district’s new training center on South Machias Road. The center features a five-story training tower along with a building that will allow live fire training for both Snohomish and neighboring fire districts. The center was named after the late fire district commissioner Ray Lee Brown, who served as a commissioner from 1968 to 2003 and advocated for a training facility.
EVERETT
Resident drops camera idea EVERETT - A resident who wanted to put surveillance cameras in the alleyways of his neighborhood is now calling the idea dead for the time being. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published May 25, 2011
Teachers: quality education for all uncertain EVERETT - More than 1,200 teachers filled Cascade High School’s gym last week to tell legislators their concerns about the future of education and the state’s ongoing funding cuts to K-12 education. More...
City wants to hear from you SNOHOMISH - The city is soliciting input from residents on how to address the shortfall for the 2012 general fund budget. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published May 25, 2011
June, 2011
June 1, 2011
Stephanie Kosonen photo
Julie El Fattal, 7, of Everett observes glass pendants by Rebecca Pool of Curious Glass with her mother Jenni El Fattal at the Everett Art Walk May 21. Pool said she is closing down her Mukilteo shop and selling her glass art at shows and markets exclusively.
Everett Art Walk
EVERETT — The Everett Art Walk is expanding to the outdoors each third Saturday through September, and its May 21 opening was a hit. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
published June 1, 2011
Community bids farewell to View Ridge EVERETT — Last month was bittersweet as View Ridge Vikings of all ages came to say goodbye one last time to View Ridge Elementary. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
published June 1, 2011
City Council may let animal shelter set fees EVERETT — The City Council last week held off on giving the Everett Animal Shelter autonomy to set its own fees and discussed the continuation of a downtown fee that funds cleanup. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
published June 1, 2011
More bus cuts coming from CT Snohomish County — Community Transit has some ideas on how it will reduce services by 20 percent and will go public with three options Friday, June 3. More...
Ginny Schilaty retires this month from the Snohomish School District. Schilaty, principal at Machias Elementary School, said one of her main goals in education was to let students know they have many people who care about them. She said she was honored to have spent 23 years in the district. Her retirement, she hopes, will involve substitute teaching at the district, she said. “It’s just too much fun to be around kids,” Schilaty said last week while baby-sitting her 2-year-old granddaughter. She’ll also volunteer at her grandchildren’s schools in Arlington and Everett and said she looks forward to traveling more and researching her family’s history. Shirley Grant, a sixth-grade teacher at Machias, said Schilaty’s caring ways helped her to shine as a principal. “Ginny’s style has always been from the heart,” Grant said. “The impression and impact she has made on the people and building will be with Machias for many years to come,” she added. Schilaty sat on the design committee for the new Machias school that opened in January. A reception for Schilaty will be held Friday, June 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Machias school commons. Parents, former students and their families, and district and community members are invited. Schilaty said she will miss the people the most. “It’s like you’re leaving your neighborhood,” she said. Schilaty started as a P.E. teacher and a librarian in the district before becoming the Machias principal. “It’s been a journey and I loved it,” she said. — Stephanie Kosonen
EVERETT
Parks dept. makes case for cameras EVERETT - The parks department made its case for adding up to 50 surveillance cameras in city parks before the City Council last week, but funding may be the first road block. More...
Women headed to Special Olympics in Greece EVERETTT - Jill Mayer and Kristie Clark will show their mettle this month as Olympic athletes. The Everett women have done this before. They compete in multiple sports and have the medals that prove their capabilities. More...
Residents split on raising property tax SNOHOMISH - Community members are split on whether or not they support a property tax increase to maintain the Police Department and keep parks open next year, according to early responses to a survey the city recently sent out to property owners. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published June 8, 2011
Vodka, whiskey micro-distillery opens on Avenue C SNOHOMISH - A hasty business plan scrawled on a napkin and locally grown, quality ingredients comprise two parts of a recipe for success employed by the newly opened Mac Donald Distillery on Avenue C. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published June 8, 2011
Stroll, shop, sip wine downtown SNOHOMISH - Historic Downtown Snohomish invites people to “sip, shop, wine, dine and stroll” through Snohomish’s old main streets for a new wine tasting event the second Saturday of each month through September, starting June 11. More...
Town officials come out for the laying of the corner stone at Monroe Union High School in 1910.
Historical society celebrates Monroe High’s 100 years MONROE - Senioritis used to be a much less rampant malady to afflict local teenagers.
In 1911, just six seniors graduated from the Monroe Union High School. Monroe High School’s current senior class is significantly bigger, at 393 students. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSOSEN
Published June 15, 2011
3 apply to fill council vacancy MONROE- Last week, the city received three letters of interest from residents who would like to fill the council seat vacated by Margie Rodriguez June 1.
The applicants for council seat No. 6 are Jim Kamp, Kevin Hanford and Jill Ruth. More...
Master plan for Japanese Gulch approved MUKILTEO - The City Council approved the master plan for two public pieces of Japanese Gulch, formally giving the city a hand in adding trails and park amenities to the wetlands area. More...
Evening of jazz helps neighbors in need MONROE - Several Monroe churches will host a night of music this week to benefit those who are homeless, hungry or in need of other crisis help. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSOSEN
Published June 15, 2011
June 22, 2011
Doug Ramsay photo
AquaSox home opener June 22 EVERETT - Everett AquaSox scoreboard operator Tyler Eli changes the score during the third inning of the eighth annual Everett Cup June 15 between the AquaSox and the Everett Merchants. The hand-operated scoreboard in Everett Memorial Stadium’s right field is one of only a few still used in professional baseball. Patterned after the scoreboard at Brooklyn’s Ebetts Field, the scoreboard was built by the late Bob Long and installed in 1986. AquaSox stadium announcer Tom Lafferty said Long, who had owned a Judd and Black appliance store, built the large scoreboard for the then-Everett Giants owner Bob Bavasi, whose father was the general manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers. Except for the lights that signify balls, strikes and outs, the scoreboard numbers are changed by Eli from inside the board. The AquaSox, who are last year’s Northwest League champions, began the season on the road against Tri-Cites and will open at home Wednesday, June 22 against Vancouver.
Animal shelter can now set fees EVERETT - The Everett Animal Shelter can now pass on higher fees to owners of lost pets who come in to get them back. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published June 22, 2011
Council approves alleyway realignment EVERETT- The City Council approved Skotdal Real Estate’s request to straighten an alleyway families use to walk to the Imagine Children’s Museum, a move the museum fought because of safety concerns. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published June 22, 2011
East county residents find out how cuts affect their bus ride MONROE - Bus rider Marty Seagran fears the new reality of Community Transit’s needed service cuts. This is the second year the agency is trimming routes and cutting bus hours because of falling revenues. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published June 22, 2011
Planning commissioner Jim Kamp gets council seat MONROE - Planning commission member Jim Kamp was appointed to fill City Council seat No. 6 last week.
Kamp was one of three residents who applied for the vacancy left by former Councilwoman Margie Rodriguez. He chose to be sworn in directly following the vote last week. He was appointed in a 5-1 vote by the council, with Councilman Tony Balk casting his vote for Monroe Rotary Club president Jill Ruth. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSOEN
Published June 22, 2011
Traffic cameras go live MONROE - Last week the city’s traffic cameras went live and began issuing infractions to drivers for speeding in school zones and running red lights. The next day, the county informed the city it certified a citizen initiative to remove the cameras. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSOEN
Published June 22, 2011
SNOHOMISH
Quirky Weed’s Variety closes its doors SNOHOMISH - Known for its fluffy girls’ dresses and eclectic selection of merchandise, Weed’s Variety closed May 13 after more than 80 years serving the Snohomish community.
People knew they could find items at Weed’s that weren’t available anywhere else in the area, longtime owner Max Weed said last week. More...
City will challenge legality of camera initiative MONROE - The City Council decided to challenge in court the initiative that would ban traffic cameras, instead of enacting it into law or letting the public vote on the issue. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published June 29, 2011
MUKILTEO
Mukilteo works to block strip club on Speedway MUKILTEO - A proposed strip club on the main drag to Mukilteo sparked calls from County Executive Aaron Reardon to clamp down on adult entertainment regulations this month. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published June 29, 2011
SNOHOMISH
Community helps out young cancer patient SNOHOMISH - This October, Little Cedars Elementary fifth-grader Rayshawn Franklin will celebrate a birthday unlike any other thanks in large part to an outpouring of community support for the young cancer patient. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published June 29, 2011
Council will hear from sheriff about contract SNOHOMISH - At a community forum on the city’s 2012 budget last week, it appeared public input has swayed the City Council to give more consideration to disbanding the Police Department. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published June 29, 2011
City will pick up water tab if pool built here SNOHOMISH - The City Council voted 5-1 to authorize Mayor Karen Guzak to sign a written commitment to pay water and wastewater fees for the Snohomish School District’s planned aquatic center last week. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published June 29, 2011
Safety first this Fourth SNOHOMISH COUNTY - Fire officials want people to be safe this Fourth of July and only set off fireworks where it is permitted.
Fireworks are illegal to discharge in Everett. More...
City will challenge legality of camera initiative MONROE - The City Council decided to challenge in court the initiative that would ban traffic cameras, instead of enacting it into law or letting the public vote on the issue. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published June 29, 2011
MUKILTEO
Mukilteo works to block strip club on Speedway MUKILTEO - A proposed strip club on the main drag to Mukilteo sparked calls from County Executive Aaron Reardon to clamp down on adult entertainment regulations this month. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published June 29, 2011
SNOHOMISH
Community helps out young cancer patient SNOHOMISH - This October, Little Cedars Elementary fifth-grader Rayshawn Franklin will celebrate a birthday unlike any other thanks in large part to an outpouring of community support for the young cancer patient. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published June 29, 2011
Council will hear from sheriff about contract SNOHOMISH - At a community forum on the city’s 2012 budget last week, it appeared public input has swayed the City Council to give more consideration to disbanding the Police Department. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published June 29, 2011
City will pick up water tab if pool built here SNOHOMISH - The City Council voted 5-1 to authorize Mayor Karen Guzak to sign a written commitment to pay water and wastewater fees for the Snohomish School District’s planned aquatic center last week. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published June 29, 2011
Safety first this Fourth SNOHOMISH COUNTY - Fire officials want people to be safe this Fourth of July and only set off fireworks where it is permitted.
Fireworks are illegal to discharge in Everett. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published June 29, 2011
July, 2011
July 6, 2011
EVERETT
Neighborhoods install crossing flags EVERETT - Orange flags pedestrians hold to let drivers know they are crossing the street will be showing up at more city crosswalks soon. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published July 6, 2011
Office building has support from board EVERETT - The Everett School District’s repeated push for a new $23 million administration building may now have enough support from the school board. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published July 6, 2011
Food bank helping more with fewer donations EVERETT - Donations are down at the Everett Food Bank, but while the lines are shorter, more people are coming in versus before the economic downturn. More...
School budget includes no teacher lay offs MUKILTEO - The Mukilteo School District is shrinking its budget by about $1.1 million for next year by cutting staff, including eliminating its drug and alcohol intervention counselors. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published July 6, 2011
Sales pitch at City Hall raises questions MUKILTEO - A company’s plan to use City Hall for a sales demonstration prompted some Mukilteans to call city policy into question before the event moved at the last minute. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published July 6, 2011
SNOHOMISH
Farmers market expands for the summer SNOHOMISH - Fresh local produce is still the staple, but more live music, kids’ activities, social networking and cooking demonstrations mark the newest generation of the Snohomish Farmers Market, 20 years after its humble beginnings on Avenue A. More...
Police guild objects to officer firing EVERETT - The union representing the police officer fired July 1 filed a grievance the same day seeking to get the officer reinstated. More...
Draft schools budget up for review MONROE - A preliminary budget for Monroe Public Schools became available July 11 for the public to view online and at the district’s administration office. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published July 13, 2011
MUKILTEO
Council increases parking fines MUKILTEO - A standard parking ticket will jump from $20 to $40 this week in Mukilteo so the city can keep up with the times and try to dissuade parking violators. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published July 13, 2011
SNOHOMISH
Cities left to figure out medical marijuana law SNOHOMISH - The state’s medical marijuana law, which legislators sought to clarify, has cities instead adopting moratoriums to give them time to figure out what’s allowed and how to regulate the growing industry. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published July 13, 2011
Sheriff pitches contract to council SNOHOMISH - The City Council last week learned more about what police services would look like if the city disbands its Police Department, but it still has not decided whether or not to do so. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published July 13, 2011
Police arrest 2 in high school break-in SNOHOMISH - Snohomish School District employees last week began cleaning up the mess and determining the extent of the damage caused by an act of vandalism that destroyed thousands of dollars of property at Snohomish High School. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published July 13, 2011
July 20, 2011
Snohomish’s annual summer festival is July 20-24. Everything you need to know about Kla Ha Ya Days can be found on our website or grab a copy of the Tribune’s special Kla Ha Ya Days section at Snohomish shops or at our office located at 127 Ave. C in Snohomish.
Find out what it takes to raise chickens on tour EVERETT - On this tour, “fowl” questions are most welcome.
Chickenkeepers around Everett are gearing up for the second-annual Coop of Dreams Tour this weekend. People learn how to raise chickens in their backyard and get fresh eggs. More...
Arts of Snohomish gallery finds new home on First Street SNOHOMISH - The Arts of Snohomish Gallery has moved to First Street.
For artists, the gallery is a place to get some public reaction to their work. For residents, it is the only local place to see a variety of high quality art. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published July 20, 2011
Friend hosts fundraiser for The Farm SNOHOMISH - Runners and walkers of all levels are signing up and taking pledges for the inaugural Bruce Karr Memorial Fundraiser 5k Fun Run/Walk. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published July 20, 2011
Snohomish: Then and Now
Without the photographer’s notation, “J. Harvey, 1884,” we would not know that Snohomish pioneer John Harvey built a hops kiln on his homestead. More...
By WARNER BLAKE
special to the Tribune
July 27, 2011
Explore Jetty Island this summer EVERETT - Jetty Island is like a microcosm of the Pacific Northwest, teeming with the wild beauty and biodiverse life forms locals have grown accustomed to seeing in the Snohomish County ecosystem. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published July 27, 2011
City bans collective pot gardens up to a year EVERETT - As cities in Snohomish County are rushing to adopt moratoriums on medical marijuana providers, the city of Seattle approved an ordinance last week that does just the opposite. More...
Sensitive farmland off U.S. 2 should be studied MONROE - A request to rezone about 68 acres of farmland in the east end of town just off U.S. 2 from limited open space to commercial to make way for retail development should be subject to a full environmental impact study, the city determined last week. More...
Police service talks continue SNOHOMISH - The City Council continues to deliberate whether or not the city should contract with the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office for police services or continue to run its 152-year-old Police Department on an ever-shrinking city budget. More...
Protecting rural land, encouraging growth in town SNOHOMISH - When the Pilchuck District is eventually built out, the fourth and fifth floors of its shiny new buildings will represent the preservation of something much older — acres upon acres of forest land in rural Snohomish County. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Aug. 3, 2011
Reports critical of DOC policy MONROE - Lapses in training and loose enforcement of safety procedures within the Department of Corrections (DOC) highlighted in two recently released reports shed light on operational failures that occurred before and the night of the death of a Monroe corrections officer in January. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Aug. 3, 2011
6 vie for school board seat EVERETT - Six candidates are vying for a seat on the Everett School Board being vacated by Kristie Dutton. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Aug. 3, 2011
Development ideas has council looking to ‘reinvent’ west Monroe MONROE - A plan to expand First Air Field airstrip and another to build a wakeboard park may “put Monroe on the map,” as not just a gateway to adventure, but a destination for events and recreation, Mayor Robert Zimmerman said last week. More...
Health district studies needs of retiring baby boomers COUNTY - The biggest thing that worries seniors is their financial health, according to a study by the Snohomish Health District.
Medical care and personal health also top the list. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published July 27, 2011
Popularity new ‘problem’ for waterfront MUKILTEO - A triple-booking of events around Lighthouse Park on Saturday, July 16 shows that the city is popular, but is running out of space along the waterfront for parking. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published July 27, 2011
Three take on Debra Kolrud for school board seat MONROE - The primary election is Aug. 16. There is one Monroe School Board race that has more than two candidates. The primary will narrow the field to two. The top-two winners will advance to the general election in November. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Aug. 3, 2011
August 10, 2011
EVERETT
Free foreclosure event Aug. 20 at Cascade High EVERETT - Families facing foreclosure can get one-on-one counseling Saturday, Aug. 20 at an event geared toward educating and informing people about the state’s new foreclosure laws.
The free event is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cascade High School, 801 E. Casino Rd., in Everett. More...
City adopts emergency rules for collective pot gardens MUKILTEO - Medical marijuana supporters say the city took the right step last week when it adopted interim zoning rules permitting collective gardens in certain parts of the city, and two providers are already operating in town. More...
Police service talks continue, divide emerges SNOHOMISH - It’s still undecided whether the city will retain its 150-year-old Police Department and Police Chief John Turner, but statements made last week by city officials indicate the council is now split on what to do. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Aug. 10, 2011
Sales tax increase for roads on primary ballot SNOHOMISH - The city’s transportation benefit board is asking voters to increase the city sales tax from 8.6 percent to 8.8 percent to pay for road improvements. More...
Family flower shop destroyed by fire EVERETT - A longtime floral shop near Evergreen Way and 45th Street was set on fire two weeks ago, and the family that owns the shop is picking up the pieces. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Aug. 17, 2011
Foundation collects backpacks for students EVERETT - The Everett Public Schools Foundation’s Stuff the Bus drive ended Sunday, Aug. 14 but there’s still time to help. The need for backpacks is year-round, as new students enter school. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Aug. 17, 2011
MONROE
Backpack program in need of supplies MONROE - The Sky Valley Food Bank’s backpack drive provides bags and school supplies for students in the Monroe School District and wraps up next week. More...
Nineteen-month-old Caitlin Rigsby of Bothell claps to the music as her aunt Carol Bordeau of Snohomish holds her at the fourth annual Taste of Music Festival on Aug. 20 in Snohomish. The two were listening to Uncle Fuzzy and the Jam Shack Band. This year’s three-day festival featured three stages along First Street and Cedar Avenue and was sponsored by the Washington Blues Society and Historic Downtown Snohomish. More than 40 bands from blues to rock and country performed this year.
Animal shelter fees set to increase EVERETT - The Everett Animal Shelter is set to raise fees for adopting certain breeds and other services to cover its operating costs. More...
City asks for recreational ideas for Lake Tye Park MONROE - After a proposal to build a wakeboarding facility on Lake Tye caught the attention of the City Council earlier this month, the city is now seeking other development ideas for the public lake. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Aug. 24, 2011
Combined married couple beats incumbent MONROE - The married couple running against incumbent Debra Kolrud for a seat on the Monroe School Board got what they wanted in last week’s primary — the two attracted nearly half of the total votes. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Aug. 24, 2011
SNOHOMISH
Sales tax for streets passes SNOHOMISH - Voters approved a 10-year sales tax increase to fund street repairs and intersection improvements in last week’s primary election. More...
Split council pursues sheriff contract SNOHOMISH - In a 4-3 vote, the City Council last week decided to consider a contract with the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office for police services. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Aug. 24, 2011
August 31, 2011
EVERETT
School board scuffle deepens rift EVERETT - Tensions among the Everett School Board erupted into a physical scuffle among board members last week during a closed-door meeting, More...
Always something new to do at Fair MONROE - It’s going to be a feast of fun at the Evergreen State Fair this year, with a lineup of unprecedented events and performances. The fair runs August 25 to Sept. 5. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Aug. 31, 2011
Eyman, Minnick spar over voter’s pamphlet MONROE - Infighting between two of the three people assigned to write the voter’s pamphlet statement against red light cameras had two political heavyweights, Chad Minnick and Tim Eyman, tussling over what should go in it last week. More...
Students will see larger class sizes this fall SNOHOMISH - The Snohomish School District will not have to lay off any teachers for the 2011-2012 school year, despite having to cut $1.6 million in expenditures. More...
Group wants to name old City Hall after former mayor EVERETT- A group of local leaders want the old City Hall to be named after longtime mayor Bill Moore, but not all are on board.
A group of 29 people proposed the idea in June to Mayor Ray Stephanson. More...
Kimberly-Clark tells employees it’s closing mill EVERETT - Kimberly-Clark is preparing to close its waterfront mill by the end of the year if a buyer does not materialize. The company announced the news to workers Thursday, Sept. 1. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Sept. 7, 2011
Couple helps homeless connect with family members EVERETT - Homeless people not only lack a roof over their head, they also may lose any means to communicate with their family.
An Everett husband and wife are working to solve that. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Sept. 7, 2011
MONROE
City now says it will do “phased” study on U.S. 2 farmland MONROE - The city is back peddling on its decision to require an Environmental Impact Statement on a large piece of farmland which the city determined would likely have significant adverse impacts if the land use designation were to be changed from limited open space to general commercial. More...
City staff will be leaner next year SNOHOMISH - In addition to the decision to move toward disbanding the Police Department, the city made six other difficult decisions last month for next year’s budget, which has a projected $1 million shortfall. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Sept. 14, 2011
County gets grant to fight child prostitution EVERETT - Snohomish County’s ability to find and arrest people who sexually exploit children just got stronger thanks to an almost $500,000 federal grant. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Sept. 14, 2011
Woman dives into antiques business EVERETT - Carol Lauzon never ran a store before, but she knew what she wanted and despite a bad economy dived in headfirst. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Sept. 14, 2011
September 21, 2011
EVERETT
Olson vs. rest of school board EVERETT - The Everett School Board censured outspoken member Jessica Olson last week for actions that she maintains were legal. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Sept. 21, 2011
Cyclist’s death prompts safety talks EVERETT - News of a cyclist’s death in a bicycle-pedestrian accident on the Interurban Trail in July has the City Council thinking about ways to make the trail safer. More...
New pump station open for business SNOHOMISH - The city reached another milestone last week in its biggest infrastructure project to fix its sewage problem. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Sept. 21, 2011
Some on council suggest public vote on police issue SNOHOMISH - A new idea emerged at the City Council’s fall budget retreat last week to help the council decide the fate of the Police Department when members against a county contract suggested a public vote. More...
School district wants to hear from you about levy renewal MONROE - The Monroe School District is reaching out to the community for input on how local dollars can be spent wisely in the schools, through a series of “Community Conversations” held in Snohomish and Monroe. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Sept. 28, 2011
SNOHOMISH
Panthers honor Coach Gilby at Friday game SNOHOMISH - On Friday, Sept. 30, a special halftime show will honor a former Panther who touched the lives of thousands of students, athletes and colleagues at Snohomish High School. More...
New online service for veterans EVERETT - Veterans navigating the thick and confusing web of resources available to them now have a one-stop shop online.
Festival of Pumpkins activities throughout October SNOHOMISH - Six local farms opened their fields to the public over the last two weekends for the opening days of the Festival of Pumpkins, which runs through the month of October. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Oct. 5, 2011
Church moves food with manpower SNOHOMISH - How would you go about moving 438 pounds of food from an organic farm almost eight miles to a food bank in town without using fossil fuels? More...
Budget calls for layoffs, no tax increase MONROE - In a forecast that is described as “pretty bleak” by city finance director Dianne Nelson, the City Council got its first look at the mayor’s proposed 2012 budget last week, which cuts four parks employees from the city’s ranks. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Oct. 12, 2011
School board discusses levy renewal MONROE - The Monroe School District is considering renewing its learning levy and may put a ballot measure before voters in February. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Oct. 12, 2011
COUNTY
Free resume workshops at libraries this month COUNTY - The job market has changed.
Employers are screening applicants with automated computer programs and checking out candidates with social networking websites such as LinkedIn. More...
District to ask voters to renew learning levy MONROE - The school board last week approved a ballot proposition for the February special election that will ask voters to renew the district’s learning levy. More...
By JESSICA SPARKS
Published Oct. 19, 2011
SNOHOMISH
City plans vote on police contract SNOHOMISH - The City Council last week got its first look at a draft interlocal agreement with the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office for police services, and a final vote on the contract is expected next month. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Oct. 19, 2011
Mentors needed to work with kids at risk for drug use SNOHOMISH - In response to the loss of its drug and alcohol counselor and a need to take a more preventive approach to drug use, the Snohomish School District is kicking off a mentorship program that has been a year in the making. More...
Everett History Week begins Oct. 30 EVERETT — Anchor Pub to host activities throughout the week—
The city is moving its tourism marketing online, and it is unclear how the visitor center at Comcast Arena will continue to operate after Oct. 28. More...
Police Sales Tax on Ballot MONROE — The Nov. 8 ballot will include a measure to increase Monroe's sales tax one tenth of 1 percent to fund two police officer positions. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published October 26, 2011
Restaurant aims to provide great steaks, place to dance MONROE — By popular demand, Monroe now has a steakhouse-style restaurant. To determine what kind of restaurant to open, owner Bob Gordon said he and his partner, chef and general manager Ken Ballou hit the streets to ask people in Monroe what they wanted. More...
SNOHOMISH
Two female students stabbed at Snohomish High; one in critical condition Two Snohomish High School female students were taken to the hospital early Monday, Oct. 24 for stab wounds. More...
By JESSICA SPARKS
with reporting by DOUG RAMSAY
All-day parking downtown ends next month SNOHOMISH — All-day parking in the historic business district will no longer be allowed under new parking rules the City Council adopted last week for the area. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published October 26, 2011
Council considers raising property tax next year SNOHOMISH — Revenues are flat and expenditures are increasing.
It’s the same message the City Council has heard for months while putting together 2012 budget priorities, and next month some important deadlines arrive for dealing with a stagnant economy. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published October 26, 2011
City sets up process to pick new police chief SNOHOMISH — The city is piecing together a selection process to find a new chief of police after its impending approval of a contract with the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office for police services. More...
Say the name of this restaurant and guaranteed, you will get the same reaction. I have yet to find one person who has anything but glowing comments for Grilla Bites (located at 1020 First Street). More...
ELECTION NEWS
MONROE CITY COUNCIL
MONROE — The City Council has three seats up for election Nov. 8. Jim Kamp vs. Mitch Ruth for Position 4; Ed Davis vs. R. Todd Fredrickson for Position 5; Jason Gamble vs. Bridgette Tuttle for Position 6; and Joel Phillips vs. Kevin Hanford for the At-Large Position. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published October 26, 2011
EVERETT SCHOOL BOARD
EVERETT — The two candidates running for Everett School Board talked about different goals for the board at a candidate’s forum last week. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 26, 2011
SNOHOMISH FIRE LEVY
SNOHOMISH — Fire District 4 will ask voters for a tax increase Nov. 8 to maintain services. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published October 26, 2011
Mukilteo
Wheeler/Schmalz MUKILTEO — Candidates Ted Wheeler and Steve Schmalz both want the seat being vacated by retiring Councilman Tony Tinsley.
Schmalz sees his role as a budget watchdog. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 26, 2011
Carlson/Gregerson race MUKILTEO — Incumbent Councilwoman Jennifer Gregerson faces Carolyn “Dode” Carlson, a master gardener who is a former auditor with the U.S. Postal Service. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 26, 2011
Vanderwielen/Preshaw Mukilteo - Incumbent Emily Vanderwielen is facing challenger Terry Preshaw in this year’s election. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Publishied Oct. 26, 2011
Grafer / Casselman Mukilteo - Councilwoman Linda Grafer is running against challenger Dr. Scott Casselman. More...
Students and cheerleaders from Jackson and Snohomish high schools pose for a photo after they came together at half time of the Oct. 28 game between the two schools. Jackson students held up a “SHS in our prayers” sign during the game to show their support for the victims of Oct. 24’s stabbing and wore pink (favorite color of stabbing victim April Lutz). Snohomish students also wore pink. In addition to Jackson’s support, students at Glacier Peak, Monroe and Bothell high schools came to school wearing red (Snohomish’s team color) during the week to show their support for SHS.
Stabbing victim home from hospital SNOHOMISH - The Snohomish High School sophomore accused of stabbing two students is facing possible adult charges for the brutal knife attack that happened at the high school before classes Monday, Oct. 24. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Nov. 2, 2011
Three corrections officers fired, two demoted MONROE - Three corrections officers from Monroe Correctional Complex were fired last week for lying and failing to comply with investigations following the January murder of fellow corrections officer Jayme Biendl. More...
Mill unions pick some jobs over none EVERETT - Union members at Kimberly-Clark ratified a five-year labor agreement with the mill’s potential new owner Atlas Holdings LLC, but only 300 of the mill’s 750 workers would keep their jobs in the agreement. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 9, 2011
Occupy Everett: End corporate greed EVERETT - Occupy Everett is growing.
More than 40 people are coming nightly to an assembly meeting at the Snohomish County Courthouse Complex. Dew shines on the tents people are sleeping in overnight; a high of more than a dozen tents sprang up last week. More...
‘The time I made it to France’ SNOHOMISH - “I had no intentions of getting into the service,” Harold Wanamaker says while sitting near the large picture window in his Snohomish home, overlooking Blackman’s Lake one afternoon in October. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Nov. 9, 2011
Police vote Nov. 15; majority favor sheriff’s contract SNOHOMISH - The majority on City Council in favor of disbanding the Police Department appear solid in their vote as the deadline for the council to make a decision on the future of police services looms. More...
Everett High School senior Eimi Omokawa, an JROTC member (left) dances with military veteran Bill Starkey, 78, of Everett at the sixth annual Veterans Day USO Dance on Friday Nov. 11 in the Carl Gipson Senior Center. Starkey, who served in the Coast Guard, Army and Air Force during the 1950s was one of more than 400 guests who danced to 1940s era big band music provided by the Seattle-based band Route 66. As in past years, members of the Everett School District Navy JROTC, Naval Station Everett sailors and the SeaTac USO Center volunteered to assist with the event.
LeSesne wins school board election EVERETT – The Everett School Board’s newest member, board-elect Pam LeSesne, is one well-recognized by district officials. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 16, 2011
MONROE
Monroe says no to cameras, police tax MONROE — Voters rejected a sales tax hike for police, favored booting traffic cameras out of town and voted for putting in term limits for the City Council and Mayor in last week’s election. More...
Tribute event Nov. 26 will honor longtime music teacher, now 80, with rousing music and many alumni SNOHOMISH — “Hold onto your stomach and yell masculine!”
Ed Peterson barked instructions like this one that his choir and band students will never forget. He would insist on only the best.
Also, he said it pretty loudly.
Peterson, who built a strong music program that included Concert Band, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Concert Choir and Jazz Choir at the high school, is known for his demanding yet nurturing teaching style. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
published Nov. 16, 2011
Petitioners oppose parking time limits SNOHOMISH — A group of business owners are circulating a petition against the three-hour time limits soon to be implemented downtown. More...
Snohomish Fire District 4 firefighters push the districts newest fire engine into Station 41 on Tuesday, Nov. 8, a tradition that dates back to the days when firefighters pushed their new horse-drawn steam pumpers into the station. The $468,000 engine built by H&W Emergency Vehicles of Hillsboro, Ore., on a Spartan Chassis was delivered to the fire district in December 2010, but it was damaged in an accident during a driver training session early this year. While in Oregon for repairs, a faulty part was found, which had to be re-manufactured in Spain, keeping the engine out of service until this month. The new engine replaces a 15-year-old engine.
Historic home removal decision appealed EVERETT - Historic Everett is leading an appeal against the city’s approval to let the historic home at 1102 Grand Ave. be removed for a larger house. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 23, 2011
District bracing for $8 million cut EVERETT - If legislators approve all of Gov. Chris Gregoire’s proposed cuts to balance a $1.4 billion state budget shortfall, the Everett School District could face losses of up to $8 million. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 23, 2011
MONROE
People rally for parks MONROE - After hearing from the Snohomish County Tourism Bureau and several concerned citizens, the city is looking at taking a smaller slice out of the parks department’s budget next year. More...
Sales tax would have cut down on police overtime costs MONROE - As a result of the failure of Proposition 1, a sales tax increase for police, overtime costs will continue to mount, and the Police Department will not replace any vehicles next year. More...
By STEPHANIE KOSONEN
Published Nov. 23, 2011
SNOHOMISH
Fire destroys Bartelheimer farm house SNOHOMISH - The Bartelheimer family was in the news again last week after a tragic house fire ruined their historic farmhouse on 92nd Street SE. More...
Santa arrives in a classic car Friday, Nov. 25 in downtown Snohomish to welcome everyone Home for the Holidays and officiate the annual Lighting of The Christmas Tree Ceremony.
EVERETT
Food bank low on holiday meats EVERETT - The holiday season could leave many poor families without a traditional holiday meal based on the current supplies available at the Everett Food Bank. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 30, 2011
Committee recommends keeping bikes off sidewalks EVERETT - The mayor’s Transportation Advisory Committee voted earlier this month to recommend the City Council maintain the city ban on cyclists on downtown sidewalks. More...
City Council takes steps to save employees’ jobs MONROE - The City Council confirmed its plans to save a custodian and a parks employee or two from the budget axe last week, and it also voted not to increase property taxes. More...
Area food banks need your help SNOHOMISH COUNTY - With Thanksgiving meals distributed, the local food banks are setting their sights on Christmas dinner. More...
Christmas House director Silvia Bauman and volunteer Ryan Christopherson hang clothing on a rack Dec. 1 in preparation for the following opening day of the Christmas House shop located inside the Everett Girls and Boys Club.
Christmas House opens to many in need EVERETT - For thousands of working poor and homeless parents in Snohomish County, Christmas House is the only way their children can enjoy a decent holiday season. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 7, 2011
Something ‘stinks’ in garbage contract MONROE - A seemingly routine matter of selecting a company to pick up the city’s garbage has raised a $100,000 question by Councilwoman Patsy Cudaback. More...
Riders want more stops as ET may have to cut EVERETT - Everett Transit riders told the agency they want more bus stops, but it may be a request that could be hard to fill in today’s economic climate. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 7, 2011
Holiday Parlour Tour
Lisa Waterston’s home, located at 212 Ave. E in Snohomish, will be one of the homes open for the Snohomish Historical Society’s Parlour Tour Sunday, Dec. 11. See Tribune pages 7-11 for more details.
Dancing for donations
Doug Ramsay photo
Glacier Peak principal Jim Dean performs a dance with professional dancer Andrea Bradshaw Saturday, Dec. 3 during the Dancing with the Grizzlies show. Four Glacier Peak students and four faculty members paired up with dancers from the American Ballroom Dance Institute for the competition. Science teacher Chris Scott won the contest. Senior Reggie Gillins took second place while junior Meghan Hills finished third. All proceeds from the show were donated to the Maltby Food Bank.
Looking down from the top of Rucker Hill, business at the Kimberly–Clark plant hums along for now, but the plant will be shut down in a few months.
Surprise break down in talks at Kimberly-Clark mill EVERETT - With the holidays coming soon, Kimberly-Clark announced last week that the Everett mill will close by April 1 after negotiations with interested buyer Atlas Holdings broke down. More...
Neighborhoods set aside business for holiday events EVERETT - Most neighborhoods are taking a break from formally meeting in December, but many neighborhoods are planning special get-togethers so neighbors can meet neighbors. More...
With a portion of the scoreboard and the Panther logo on the “Old Gym” wall visible through an opening at the center of the photo, crews work on demolishing the B Building at Snohomish High School Tuesday, Dec. 6. The building opened in October 1938 as the Snohomish Junior High. Included in the original construction of the building was the gym, which was known for years as the “Pit” because of the raised wooden bleachers that surrounded all four sides of the court. The building is being removed as part of the school’s modernization project paid for by bond dollars. The area will be used as a school bus loading area. The school is allowing people to take bricks for free to keep as souvenirs. They are located in a fenced-in area near the entrance to the tennis courts on Fifth Street. The pile of bricks will be replenished weekly through Friday, Dec. 30, or until the supply has been depleted, whichever comes first.
The Snohomish Panther girls lead by 11 points at the half, and although the Monroe Bearcats mounted a second half charge, the Panthers held on to win 55-46 in a Wesco north game at the Keith Gilbertson Athletic Complex in Snohomish on Friday Dec. 9. Senior Julia Young (team high 13.1 point average) led the Panthers with a game high 17 points and sophomore Callie Harwood sank a season high 13 points in the win. Junior forward Ashley Alexander (team high 11.4 point average) topped all Bearcats with 14 points. In the photo, Young drives between Bearcat juniors Breezy Storm (left) and Payton Wangner during fourth quarter action. The win improved the Panthers record to 3-2 while the Bearcats fall to 1-3. On the same night the Panther boys (4-0) held on to beat the Bearcats (2-1) 56-54 in Monroe.
December 21, 2011
Motorcycles line Avenue C in Snohomish during the 12th annual Old Snohomish Antique and Classic Motorcycle show in May 2008. The show that year attracted more than 10,000 motorcycles and event officials estimated 25,000 to 30,000 people filled the downtown area.
Cascade parents criticize district over field EVERETT - Parents say the Everett School District dangled an offer to rebuild the field at Cascade High School if the community could raise the funds, and now is backpedaling. More...
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 21, 2011
Medical building wants in at North Kelsey MONROE - The city signed a letter of intent with NexCore Group, a medical office building leasing company, for the sale of up to 8.8 acres in North Kelsey last week. More...
Garbage cost finally cleared up MONROE - Questions about a $100,000 amendment to the city’s 2011 budget for garbage collection led to some lessons learned this year. More...
Walmart’s store design for Monroe’s planned supercenter with gabled roofs and varying facade materials added after being asked to by the City Council. Walmart had originally submitted their standard supercenter store model.
Snohomish officers fail sheriff’s office exam SNOHOMISH - Four Snohomish Police Department officers are reported to have failed the test officers are required to pass before serving with the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office, KING 5 reported Dec. 21. More...
Lily Werle, 3, of Snohomish places a graham cracker on her gingerbread house, while her sister Violet, 5, places candy on her house on Monday, Dec. 19 at the Snohomish library. The two girls and their grandfather, Fredrick Bindel of Seattle, were part of a large group of children and parents who participated in the event that was part of the Sno-Isle Libraries Winter Extravaganza. The extravaganza provided free activities for children throughout the Sno-Isle system during the winter break from school.
For a schedule of events at your local library, visit www.sno-isle.org.
Strolling down Snohomish’s Riverfront Trail, City Councilman Tom Hamilton and Pamela Grace check out the lights at the fourth annual Celebration of Winter Solstice Thursday, Dec. 22 in Snohomish. For the event, more than 500 paper bag lanterns were placed along the trail from Cady Park to Avenue D. During their stroll on the trail, Hamilton proposed to Grace. She said ‘Yes!’
Co-op links farmers to consumers
Housing Hope finds new ways to help people
Speakers share King’s message
Kailee Johnston, 8, of Monroe and her mother Karrie (center) wave to motorists on U.S. 2 at North Kelsey Street in Monroe on March 12. The Johnstons, along with up to 100 protesters throughout the day, waved signs at the intersection to bring awareness to the city’s upcoming vote on a development site plan for a 155,000 square foot Walmart superstore at North Kelsey. It was the third weekend in a row protesters have been gathering at the intersection. The City Council is holding a public hearing on the site plan Tuesday, March 15 at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 806 W. Main St.
Then: Alcazar Building, circa 1915 — The Crippen family is pictured showing off their conversion of the former Alcazar Theater into the Eastside Garage, reputably the first automobile repair service in Snohomish. Mrs. Crippen seems to be striking a pose on the balcony as one of the showgirls from the building’s past. Built in the popular frontier box-house style of variety theater in 1892, very few remain standing today. A rough and tumble saloon and theater when it first opened, the business model fell victim to the nationwide economic crash of 1893. With the turn of the century, however, the facility was used for local productions presented to benefit the public library. 
Now: Alcazar Building, 2011 — Currently owned by Jim McGinty, who lives next door, the rare historic structure has been in his family since the 1960s. It is home to an antique store these days, open only on weekends. “Alcazar” is a Spanish term for castle or palace, which was borrowed from the Arabic “alqasr.” Our local historic treasure could have been named after the famous San Francisco’s Alcazar Theater, built in 1885.
Everett’s blossoming arts district
Neighborhood to discuss cameras as crime deterrent at May 19 meeting
Women headed to Special Olympics in Greece
Vodka, whiskey micro-distillery opens on Avenue C
Farmers market expands for the summer
Imagine Children’s Museum expands possibilities
Police arrest 2 in high school break-in
Snohomish’s annual summer festival is July 20-24. Everything you need to know about Kla Ha Ya Days can be found on our website or grab a copy of the Tribune’s special Kla Ha Ya Days section at Snohomish shops or at our office located at 127 Ave. C in Snohomish.
Explore Jetty Island this summer
Protecting rural land, encouraging growth in town.jpg)
Free mobile health clinic seeing patients 
Always something new to do at Fair
Pumpkin Hurl and Medieval Faire is Sept. 17
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Raingardens will help prevent flooding in basements.jpg)
Panthers honor Coach Gilby at Friday game.jpg)
Cabbage Patch chef’s dishes to be featured on “KCTS Cooks”
Festival of Pumpkins activities throughout October
Two female students stabbed at Snohomish High; one in critical condition
Tribute event Nov. 26 will honor longtime music teacher, now 80, with rousing music and many alumni
Teens get their own space at library
More resources for unemployed at bigger WorkSource center
5 vie to become Snohomish’s new police chief
