Tribune News Archives
Snohomish County
Community group resubmits human rights ordinance to county
SNOHOMISH COUNTY- When discrimination occurs in Snohomish County, it is the responsibility of the community to address
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By Jessica Sparks
Tribune Editor
Everett
Councilmen want to block future radio towers on farmland
EVERETT - County Councilmen Brian Sullivan, Dave Somers want to amend utility code that allowed KRKO to build in scenic Snohomish River Valley
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By Michael Whitney
Tribune Reporter
Puppy mill dogs meet their potential adopters
EVERETT - More than 1,000 people volunteered to provide homes for the 65 dogs that were seized from a suspected puppy mill
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By Katie Murdoch
Tribune Reporter
Mukilteo
Some citizens don’t believe annexation will pencil out
MUKILTEO- Mukilteo residents who are against a proposed annexation said last week the City Council isn’t representing the majority of residents
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By Katie Murdoch
Tribune Reporter
Commerical flights and neighborhoods don’t mix
MUKILTEO- Opponents of commercial flights at Paine Field and a Mukilteo real estate agent say property values will plummet
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By Katie Murdoch
Tribune Reporter
Snohomish
City’s revenue trend heading for more cuts
SNOHOMISH- City revenues are still lower than expected, and if revenues continue on this track, more expenditure cuts will need to happen
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By Michael Whitney
Tribune Reporter
New Second and Avenue A signal work complete
SNOHOMISH-The signal at Second Street and Ave A has been in operation for two weeks now,
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By Michael Whitney
Tribune Reporter
Snohomish County
Plan is to save jobs via furloughs
Snohomish County could plug a projected $6.75 million hole in its general fund
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Reporter
Everett
Delta resident wants her neighbors to be prepared
To prepare her neighbors for the unexpected, one Everett woman is encouraging residents in the Delta neighborhood to participate in Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) classes
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Reporter
City Council approves rezone to transform the Snohomish Riverfront
Developers showed drawings and photographs last week of how they envision transforming the Everett riverfront district
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Reporter
Monroe
Hospital’s charity care continues to rise
The rising number of people who cannot afford to pay for health services at Valley General Hospital has administrators working against something they can’t control
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Reporter
Valley General CEO resigns; board goes for levy hike
Valley General Hospital CEO Mark Judy is leaving after a nine year tenure
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Reporter
Mukilteo
Fire chief runs from fire to council briefing
Mukilteo Fire Chief Mike Springer knows how to make an entrance
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Reporter
Snohomish
Musicians find stage at ‘Thumb’
Music has always been an important part of the Snohomish community
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By KATIE PALMER
intern
Snohomish County
Union approves furloughs
SNOHOMISH COUNTY- Snohomish County’s largest union representing more than 1,600 government employees decided to cut their pay by about 4 percent rather than lose their jobs
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Everett
Council sees drawing for 2-gate terminal
EVERETT - The Snohomish County Council was shown basic drawings last week for a two-gate terminal for commercial flights and county officials expect to have a draft agreement with one of the airlines interested in offering passenger flights by May.
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Shelter animals settle into new home
EVERETT - Everett Animal Shelter staff escorted dogs last week down long, brightly lit hallways to their new homes.
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New group will help people grow vegetables in backyard, community
EVERETT - Everett resident Christina Robertson recalls growing up near the Silicon Valley in California when the land was used for agriculture but is now paved over.
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Gray Wolf Hall upgrades campus feel
EVERETT - The college’s students and staff celebrated the opening last week of its new building, Gray Wolf Hall.
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Mukilteo
Council moves on annexation
MUKILTEO- The City Council voted to move forward with a proposed annexation that has divided the council and two fire unions, offended unincorporated citizens and angered city residents.
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Snohomish
SHS magician featured on PBS program
SNOHOMISH- Sitting in his third period English class, sophomore Adam Truitt seems like an average Snohomish High School student. Get to know Truitt and you’ll soon learn that this student is also a professional magician
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New ambulances hit Snohomish streets
SNOHOMISH- Snohomish Fire District 4’s two new ambulances have arrived and are now in service.
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Snohomish County
Dunshee proposes billion-dollar bond for schools
SNOHOMISH COUNTY- Two weeks after educators decried cuts to basic education, a Snohomish legislator has proposed a bill to bring more funding for school construction through a $3 billion bond.
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Everett
Report highlights youth welfare amid crumbling economy
EVERETT - It started out as curiosity for Snohomish County’s League of Women Voters about how well youths were being taken care of by state, county and school programs serving young people.
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Happy Hour no longer just for drinks
EVERETT -Holly Burkett-Pohland’s clothing store in downtown Everett is filled with bright, floaty scarves with peace signs on them, clothing racks filled with royal blue peasant shirts and red dresses, a table with striped shirts folded on top and a glass shelf filled with silver jewelry and turquoise beads.
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Monroe
Teen dies in motorcycle crash
MONROE - A Monroe High School student was killed April 8 in a motorcycle accident after attempting to illegally pass the car in front of him. Cameron Klock was 16.
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Mukilteo
Mukilteo pitches special rule for airport
MUKILTEO - Mukilteo’s effort to prevent commercial flights at Paine Field have not been thwarted as it has written a special classification for the airport that would allow the airport to receive federal funding and ban passenger flights.
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Board says lift scuba diving ban
MUKILTEO - The decision to lift a ban on scuba diving from Lighthouse Park in Mukilteo is now up to the City Council after the city’s parks and arts commission recommended the council lift the ban that was put into place last year.
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Snohomish
Spring musical jazzed up
SNOHOMISH - After a year’s hiatus, Snohomish High School’s big spring musical returns later this month.
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Council considers switching to Everett water
SNOHOMISH - The City Council is considering having Everett supply water to all city residents, citing the move would mean lower water bills and the ability to free the city from maintaining a treatment plant. Before any move is made, the city will need to figure out what to do with 93 noncity residents who receive water from Snohomish.
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Mixed response to train coming into town
SNOHOMISH - Whether a train should come across the Snohomish River and into town was received with mixed opinions at last week’s rails and trails advisory committee open house.
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Snohomish
Rich do well on tax day
Editorial - While protesters took to the streets last week with their “outrage” over government spending and taxes, President Obama announced his plans to overhaul the tax system
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Volunteers needed for Food bank gardens
SNOHOMISH -Community effort to grow vegetables for Snohomish Food Bank aims to provide 60,000 pounds of food.
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1,000 gallons of sewage spills into Blackman’s Lake
SNOHOMISH- An electrical malfunction led to the dumping of 1,000 gallons of sewage into Blackman’s Lake on April 11. Remedial efforts are now underway after the pumps failed.
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Easter weekend keeps police busy
SNOHOMISH - Easter weekend was a busy one for the Snohomish Police Department.
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Everett
Cemetery podcast big hit, state notices
EVERETT - Northwest librarian historian David Dilgard said some of the most interesting stories of the people buried at the Evergreen Cemetery are tied to the graves without tombstones.
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Council shifts money to fill $4 million shortfall
EVERETT - The City Council shifted money around to plug a $4 million hole in the city’s operating budget after projected revenues for sales tax and construction fees fell short and to pay for projects and services.
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Youths need strong mentors, forum stresses
EVERETT - When Snohomish County Sheriff John Lovick was in high school, his basketball coach challenged him to become the best student at his small, segregated high school in Louisiana.
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Monroe
North Kelsey unlikely to close by loan deadline
MONROE - Progress is being made on negotiating the North Kelsey property but a sale agreement likely won’t be reached before the city will have to refinance the $11 million loan on the property due April 25.
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Monroe appears headed to getting half of its demands from prison
MONROE - Negotiations are moving forward for the prison to start paying water utility taxes, with a tentative agreement currently in the hands of the City Council, More...
Mukilteo
Scramble is on to secure Japaese Gulch before developer
MUKILTEO - Without a price, funding source or an idea of the public’s interest in the property, Mukilteo officials want to buy the piece of the Japanese Gulch up for sale before an interested developer beats them to it.
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Schools face difficult choices to address overcrowding
MUKILTEO - Faced with many unknowns, some teachers in the Mukilteo School District are bracing themselves for layoffs and are frustrated with the impacts of short-term
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Pat Smith to run for mayor, kicks off campaign April 30
MUKILTEO - Pat Smith, longtime Mukiltean, announced last week that he has the support and other resources necessary to run for mayor of Mukilteo
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Everett
Lowell neighbors work for chemical-free park
EVERETT - Megan Dunn was at Lowell Park last year with her two children when she noticed workers spraying the bushes near them. When Dunn asked what they were spraying so close to her and her children, the workers replied, “herbicide.”
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by KATIE MURDOCH
Homeowners spends 10 years restoring historic home
EVERETT - The off-white 102-year-old Cleaver Clough house with the red front door at the corner of 21st Street and Grand Avenue in north Everett was added to the city’s historical registry last week by the City Council.
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by KATIE MURDOCH
Snohomish
Spending cuts will be presented to council next month
SNOHOMISH - The continual decline in revenues has the city planning to propose budget reductions in May, but it is too early to say if more layoffs will be coming.
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by MICHAEL WHITNEY
Through karate, new life lessons for youths
SNOHOMISH - Giving teens something to do while teaching discipline and defense. That’s what a new program sponsored by the Police Department held at the Boys and Girls Club aims to do through a free Kenpo karate class led by black belt Brian Hope.
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by MICHAEL WHITNEY
Nighttime flood repair work to shut down Highway 9 valley lane
SNOHOMISH - Highway 9 drivers, take note. Your commute will be longer between Lowell-Larimer and Marsh roads.
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by MICHAEL WHITNEY
Sewer project doesn’t get grant
SNOHOMISH - Try, try again. That’s what the city will need to do as it pursues funding to lessen the cost Snohomish will eventually have to pay for its wastewater treatment line to Everett, which is still in the negotiation phase.
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by MICHAEL WHITNEY
Elective classes on chopping block
SNOHOMISH - Faced with budget cuts, the Snohomish School District just can’t finance the classes it used to, officials say, and that means slicing electives.
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by MICHAEL WHITNEY
Mukilteo
Developer eyes land near Japanese Gulch
MUKILTEO - A developer’s interest in building warehouses in Everett next to Japanese Gulch is threatening to unravel residents’ efforts to preserve the entire gulch as open space and trails.
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by KATIE MURDOCH
City spends $44,000 to freshen up annexation study
MUKILTEO - More than $200,000 deep into studying a proposed annexation that has split the community, the City Council approved spending more money to get further information.
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by KATIE MURDOCH
City buys former water district building to convert to visitor center
MUKILTEO - Three groups that promote tourism and attract visitors and residents to events in Mukilteo will have a new home before summer and tourists will have a specific place to go for information when they visit the city.
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by KATIE MURDOCH
Council lifts Lighthouse Park diving ban
MUKILTEO - More than 20 members of the diving community rose to their feet and applauded the Mukilteo City Council last week after the council voted to reverse the ban on diving at Lighthouse Park.
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by KATIE MURDOCH
Everett
Job fair disappoints some hoping to find openings
EVERETT - Some of the job seekers left a job fair at Everett Community College frustrated after their expectations to find openings, seek one-on-one face time with employers and have interviews were not met.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Judge says city didn’t break law when it approved hospital expansion
EVERETT - The group of Northwest neighborhood residents’ lawsuit against the city of Everett and hospital over a property rezone was dismissed last month after a Snohomish County Superior Court judge ruled the spirit of the law was followed and errors in the process were harmless.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Layoff allows for more time to boost farmers market activities
EVERETT - By the end of the month, a strip of Everett’s waterfront will be lined with covered tents housing vendors there to sell fruits, flowers, artwork, clothing and jewelry while musicians perform.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Swine flu appears to be similar to seasonal flu
While health officials are planning for the worst, cases in the United States appear to be milder
EVERETT - One of the 10 probable swine flu cases in Snohomish County is a 3-year-old Snohomish boy who became ill after returning home from a trip to Mexico with his family last month, the Snohomish Health District confirmed at an April 30 press conference.
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By JESSICA SPARKS
Snohomish
Schools budget reductions include teacher layoffs
SNOHOMISH - The Snohomish School District will need to chop $3.2 million to close the gap on the state’s defunding of education, a fact leaving teachers and other employees waiting with trepidation. The school board has yet to make any final decisions on Superintendent Bill Mester’s recommended reduction budget.
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by MICHAEL WHITNEY
Monroe
District proposes 5 to 10 teacher layoffs
MONROE - The Monroe School District has determined it needs to cut $2.7 million from its $63 million budget to meet reductions in state funding, including five to 10 teachers. The school board, the ultimate decision maker, has not yet released its final list of cuts.
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by MICHAEL WHITNEY
Hospital lays out financials as it prepares for levy increase
MONROE - Valley General Hospital acknowledges that it has struggled financially since 1993, but is aiming to turn that around. The statement, sent to residents in a six-page mailer, could not be truer as the hospital over the past five years has run at a total loss of $6 million.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Mukilteo
Mayor rejects offer to regionalize fire service
MUKILTEO - Mayor Joe Marine rejected an offer to join Fire District 1 in an attempt by the district to become a regional service provider for citizens living in south Snohomish County.
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by KATIE MURDOCH
Kamiak presents “Into the Woods”
MUKILTEO - Backstage at Kamiak High’s performing arts center last week princesses with diamond tiaras sat around cracking jokes, princes with gold crowns relaxed on couches and glittered fairies hopped in between the dressing and green rooms.
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by KATIE MURDOCH
Everett
Port Gardner resident hopes to get know neighbors through community garden
EVERETT - The location for Port Gardner’s community garden was right in front of Charlene Rawson’s face — approximately 3,000-square-feet of unused land across the street from her house in north Everett.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Proposal would boost support for domestic violence victims
EVERETT - The development director of Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County in Everett said last week the agency could help more domestic violence victims by relocating to a nearby Army reserve center in the Delta neighborhood as it would let them offer four times as many beds to victims and their children.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Fire destroys Sno-Isle Tech building
EVERETT - A fire destroyed the main building, which housed six programs including nursing and computer programming classes, at the Sno-Isle Tech Skills Center in Everett on May 5.
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Snohomish
Council wants to ban card rooms
SNOHOMISH - A long-dormant ordinance allowing social gambling rooms will soon change to ban them, killing a project to start a historically-themed poker room and saloon on First Street.
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by MICHAEL WHITNEY
Police dog has leg up over officer
SNOHOMISH - An outpouring of support for Dixie, the Police Department’s drug sniffing K-9, whelmed the City Council into protecting her job. Still up for discussion, though, is cutting the department’s 20th police officer if the city doesn’t get a federal grant.
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by MICHAEL WHITNEY
School board OKs teacher layoffs
SNOHOMISH- The Snohomish School District is set to cut its student military training program despite outcry from parents and students alike.
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by MICHAEL WHITNEY
Two new events debut this weekend in Snohomish
SNOHOMISH - There are two new events coming to town this weekend. Coming May 16, Snohomish’s first Antiques and Arts Faire is shaping up to be a successful event and the first annual Snohomish Wedding Showcase Tour is a must for anyone planning their big day.
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by By KATIE PALMER, intern
Mukilteo
City asks if citizens want to save Japanese Gulch
MUKILTEO - Mukilteo officials want to know what residents think about saving Japanese Gulch — an effort they estimate will cost approximately $10 million — before a developer moves further along with plans to build a string of warehouses along the end of the gulch Mukilteo is eyeing.
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by KATIE MURDOCH
Next phase seeks to connect park and lighthouse
MUKILTEO - By next year, the north end of Lighthouse Park in Mukilteo could have a band stage, extra restrooms and picnic benches and a revamped, wider walkway inviting people to visit the lighthouse.Pix in edit 5/13
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by KATIE MURDOCH
Committee says boost mayor, council salaries
MUKILTEO - A salary committee recommended last week to raise the mayor and council salaries after their research revealed Mukilteo’s mayor and council attend more meetings and log more hours but are paid less compared to neighboring cities.
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by KATIE MURDOCH
School district seeks to find $2 million to slash
MUKILTEO - The Mukilteo School District has identified approximately $2 million worth of potential cuts in programs and activities to help fill a projected $6 million budget shortfall for the 2009-10 school year.
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by KATIE MURDOCH
Snohomish County News
Everett
Doug Ramsay photo
A boat heads out into Puget Sound’s Port Gardner Bay from Everett’s south marina as the sun begins to set over Whidbey Island last weekend. The bay is one of seven priority bays to be cleaned up under the state’s Puget Sound Initiative.
Puget Sound clean up to begin at Port Gardner Bay
EVERETT - A contaminated area along the Port Gardner Bay waterfront in Everett is under the microscope as Department of Ecology officials are working with agencies to start a clean up project that could last up to 10 years.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Area may rebound quicker than others
EVERETT - Heading into summer travel season, Snohomish County’s Tourism Bureau was pleased to see that jobs, visitor spending and hotel Web site hits all increased
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Snohomish
Panthers win district
SNOHOMISH - For the second time in three years, the defending 4A state champions Snohomish Panthers took the District 1 title May 16
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Dunshee, Hope discuss session
SNOHOMISH - It was a grueling session for 44th Legislative District Reps. Hans Dunshee and Mike Hope as lawmakers were forced to make massive cuts
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By JESSICA SPARKS and MICHAEL WHITNEY
Woman watches childhood home burn
SNOHOMISH - A one-alarm fire the afternoon of May 14 in the 200 block of Avenue F required the removal of the roof as firefighters battled the blaze for five hours.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Monroe
Pro-hospital group says wait on levy measure
MONROE - A pro-hospital group’s recommendation that Valley General Hospital delay running a levy increase measure in August may have the board of commissioners rethinking its plans this week.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Left to right: Monroe Fire District 3 firefighters Rod Hewitt, Jason Bowen and Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office deputy Nick Giralmo cruise back to shore on Monroe’s Lake Tye during a joint water rescue drill May 13.
Students offer water safety tips during training exercise
MONROE - A set of young onlookers got to see water crews from Monroe Fire Department 3 and the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office perform a joint water safety training exercise on Lake Tye.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Mukilteo
City revenues dropping, cuts needed
MUKILTEO - Mukilteo officials said they will not be issuing pink slips or cutting services but in light of slumping sales tax revenues and lagging construction projects, the finance director and the mayor recommended shaving expenditures across departments to avoid drastic cuts later.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Farmers market relocates to Lighthouse Park
MUKILTEO - This summer Mukilteo Farmers Market vendors will set up shop at Lighthouse Park,
By KATIE MURDOCH
Everett
Sno-Isle classes relocated, officials working on new construction plans
Everett - Construction plans to modernize the Sno-Isle Tech Skills Center in Everett are up in the air after contractors accidentally ignited a fire that destroyed the campus’ main building that they were working on earlier this month.
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By Katie Murdoch
City chipping away at parking, may hire parking coordinator
Everett - A multiyear parking study in downtown Everett is picking up speed while staff is brainstorming ways to prevent drivers from abusing parking slot time limits and scoping locations for additional parking.
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By Katie Murdoch
Doug Ramsay photo
Veronica Bolanos, 11, shows off several of her Present Purses at Wise Designz in Everett last week.
Everett - For now designing is just a hobby
EVERETT - The first purse 11-year-old Veronica Bolanos designed when she was 3 was a love note to her mom folded and held together with tape and dental floss.
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By Katie Murdoch
Monroe
Valley General will wait one year before running levy measure
Monroe - Valley General Hospital will not be running a levy rate increase this year after the board of commissioners heeded advice from an independent pro-hospital group.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Council tackles affordable housing
Monroe - The city has started studying how to encourage affordable housing after finding it only has 632 such units.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Snohomish
No nudity allowed at Night of the Arts but not all students got the memo
Snohomish - Snohomish High School’s upcoming annual Night of the Arts is causing some controversy this year. Several Advanced Placement (AP) art students will not be allowed to display their paintings or sculptures because they contain nudity.
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By Katie Palmer
Absent grant money, 20th officer will be laid off
Snohomish - The city’s 20th police officer will lose her job in September unless the Police Department wins a grant to fund her salary after a new series of budget reductions were approved
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Committee says bring train into town
Neighbors want more info
Snohomish - The train should cross the Snohomish River trestle, the rails and trails advisory committee, an ad hoc advisory group, recommended last week to the chagrin of nearby residents. Now the City Council must decide whether to let the train in.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Council members hold position on card rooms
Snohomish - Social card rooms are set to be banned next month as the two sides on the issue appear to be entrenched in their views.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Doug Ramsay photo
On a rain soaked May 19 morning, Snohomish High School senior Juliet Desmarais (left) and junior Jackie Nakonecznyj hand out “tickets” to fellow students who drove to school wearing their seat belts.
Students “ticket” those who buckle up
Snohomish - Aiming to raise awareness on seat belt use, students at three high schools spent one morning last week reminding peers to buckle up.
The program is called Click It and Ticket and students spent the morning giving “tickets” out to students who drove to school buckled up, a play on the state’s Click It or Ticket campaign.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Mukilteo
Stonecipher fires back at Mukilteo officials over Japanese Gulch
Mukilteo - An Everett City Council member called out Mukilteo officials last week to stop “castigating” Everett for not helping to pay to preserve Japanese Gulch
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Snohomish
Johnson targeting Hamlin for City Council
SNOHOMISH - The horse race for Snohomish City Council may be shaken up if Councilman Swede Johnson puts his hat in the ring this year.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
City tries to balance growth, environment
SNOHOMISH- While longtime residents decried development on Bickford Avenue that impacted Cemetery Creek and covered up Myrick’s Fork,
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Gold Star families share experiences
SNOHOMISH - The healing process military families who lose sons or daughters during conflict goes through is never easy,
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Contract signed for sewer line design
SNOHOMISH - The sewage line to Everett has reached another milestone. The City Council two weeks ago approved a $2.1 million contract with CH2M Hill of Bellevue for design work.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Monroe
Downtown group offers parking changes
MONROE - A proposal from a downtown group May 12 on changing some of the two-hour parking limits downtown was met with interest by the City Council.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Ruth may challenge Mayor
MONROE - The city may have a challenge for mayor this year via Councilman Mitch Ruth. The deadline to file for office ends June 5.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Everett
Hawthorne runs to raise money for school
EVERETT - Last weekend, instead of sleeping in and watching TV, Hawthorne Elementary students and their families were up early and at school to raise money for their peers.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
College minus the pressure
EVERETT - The opportunity to enroll in college-level courses without the pressure and stress of writing papers, studying for tests and cramming for finals is now at Everett Senior Center members’ fingertips.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
3-day garden festival arrives June 12-14
EVERETT - The opportunity to sip wine in the grass while listening to live bands perform and browse tents filled with plants, jewelry and colorful blown glass is right around the corner.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Mukilteo
Upgraded park attracts vandals
MUKILTEO - With the warm weather and after an extensive make over, more Snohomish County residents are flocking to Lighthouse Park in Mukilteo and they are leaving behind trash, vandalism and parking illegally, city officials said last week.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Majority at forum say library district should ask voters for tax increase
MUKILTEO - The majority of Sno-Isle Libraries patrons that spoke up at a forum in Mukilteo last week said they would support asking voters this November to increase the district’s levy rate to help close a projected $2.5 million deficit next year.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
City to stream meetings online by this fall
EVERETT - Missed an Everett City Council meeting or can’t make it to an upcoming meeting?
City officials have it covered.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
EVERETT
Mayor, incumbents face challengers
EVERETT - This November two Everett City Council members and the mayor are running to keep their seats. The deadline to file for public office was June 5 with many candidates cutting it close to the deadline.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Two file for retiring Olson’s seat
EVERETT - Two longtime Everett residents are vying for City Council Position 2 which is currently filled by Councilman Mark Olson who is retiring. Both candidates said they will focus on providing jobs, keeping the city fiscally sound and vow to listen to citizens’ concerns.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Rentals ordinance vote delayed
EVERETT - The Everett City Council has postponed until September a vote on a proposed ordinance that would require inspections of city rental properties every two years in order to ensure landlords are complying with safety and zoning codes and that properties are properly registered with the city.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Everett Transit looking at fare increase
EVERETT - Adult riders on Everett Transit could see fare rates increase from 50 cents to 75 cents per trip beginning July 1 if a proposed fare increase goes into effect while fares for youths, seniors and people with disabilities will stay the same
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Parking ticket discounts up for vote
EVERETT - The Everett City Council is scheduled to vote June 10 on an ordinance that would pull the 50 percent and 75 percent discounts granted to parking violators if they immediately pay their parking tickets.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
MONROE
Sitting, former council members challenge mayor
MONROE - The city’s mayoral race officially has three candidates: longtime Mayor Donnetta Walser, Councilman Mitch Ruth and former Councilman Robert Zimmerman.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Newcomers, old faces vie for open seats
MONROE- Challenges are almost everywhere for the City Council.
June 5 was the deadline to file for public office and the views of candidates who could be reached by press time were included in this story.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
City Council ready to shut off prison’s water
MONROE - The city is prepared to call the prison’s bluff after the City Council approved shutting off water services on July 1 if the prison doesn’t pay its water bill.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
SNOHOMISH
Randall challenging Thorndike
SNOHOMISH - While a dogfight between City Councilman Swede Johnson and Mayor Randy Hamlin never materialized, a new battle between councilmen has arisen for this year’s election.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Residents oppose zoning change
City Council sends Avenue D issue back for re-evaluation
SNOHOMISH - When Allison Merrill and Stephen Swartz moved into their 1904 home on Avenue D, in one of the oldest neighborhoods in town, never did they expect that the neighborhood would be under threat from commercial development.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Council bans card rooms
SNOHOMISH - As expected, social card rooms were banned by ordinance June 2 by the City Council, but it may not squelch a proposed vintage saloon as long as it does not include monetary gambling.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Library listening tour stops in Snohomish
SNOHOMISH - Residents spoke with vigor last week regarding the future of the Sno-Isle Libraries. The 21-library district is facing a $2.5 million shortfall next year and administrators are on a multicity tour seeking input.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
MUKILTEO
Stoltz, Emery have challengers
MUKILTEO - Councilman Richard Emery and Kevin Stoltz have challengers who filed on deadline day. June 5 was the deadline to file for public office and the views of candidates who could be reached by press time were included in this story.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
City slashes $950,000 from budget
MUKILTEO - The Mukilteo City Council approved slashing expenses across departments without layoffs and true to form the council jumped at the opportunity to bicker over Rosehill Community Center before making its decision.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Snohomish
Students help preserve schools’ history
SNOHOMISH - Riverview and Machias elementaries finished their school years this week after a year’s goodbye celebration at both schools filled with four decades of memories. The students will move to the Freshman Campus next year while their schools are demolished and new schools are built in their place.
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BY MICHAEL WHITNEY
City settles with professor detained for taking photos for art project
SNOHOMISH - The city of Snohomish settled with a University of Washington fine arts professor April 29 for $8,000 on accusations that she was unfairly detained by police for taking photos of the Bonneville Power Administration plant on Bickford Avenue.
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BY MICHAEL WHITNEY
Can new Historic Downtown Snohomish president save faltering group
SNOHOMISH - Historic Downtown Snohomish (HDS), the nonprofit organization formed to foster economic vitality downtown, has had its share of problems and disorganization but now says it is rebuilding.
Business owners are waiting for that rebuilding to take place, with concerns that the group will never accomplish what it wants to do.
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BY MICHAEL WHITNEY
Everett
Citing the economy, split council moves on theater project
EVERETT - It’s a give and take between the city of Everett and the Village Theatre.
The city will collect $48,000 per year in rent from the Village Theatre to house its Kidstage program in the former Key Bank building located on the corner of Wetmore Avenue and California Street in exchange for spending up to $1.9 million on acoustical shell improvements, per
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BY KATIE MURDOCH
East Coast tradition begins in Snohomish County
EVERETT - A decades-old tradition primarily East Coast firefighters participate in to honor their fallen brothers and sisters is making a presence in Snohomish County.
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BY KATIE MURDOCH
Discounts gone for parking violators
EVERETT - The Everett City Council approved pulling the 50 percent and 75 percent discounts granted to parking violators if they immediately pay their parking tickets.
The rules also include stricter penalties for repeat offenders.
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BY KATIE MURDOCH
Stimulus money to improve bike, pedestrian safety
EVERETT - The stretch of West Marine View Drive in Everett designated as a corridor for bicyclists and pedestrians will see safety improvements thanks to nearly $2 million in federal stimulus funding.
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BY KATIE MURDOCH
Public health loses 17 more employees
EVERETT - A program that protects citizens and waters by regulating septic systems will lose 10 employees and another that promotes children’s health and safety was cut last week to help fill a $1.5 million deficit in the Snohomish Health District’s 2009 budget.
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BY KATIE MURDOCH
Youths help Katrina effort, improve safety, lend helping hand
EVERETT - Hailey Nelson, now 10, was 7 years old when she learned about a library and homes destroyed during Hurricane Katrina from an episode of “Oprah.”
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BY KATIE MURDOCH
Monroe
Council cool to pay bump
(A shorter version appeared in the June 17 print edition)
MONROE- A desire by Mayor Donnetta Walser to award additional money to interim city administrator Tim Quenzer and deputy police chief Cherie Harris for their hard work drew consternation among council members earlier this month.
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BY MICHAEL WHITNEY
Mukilteo
Updated study concludes annexation would pencil out
MUKILTEO - Three scenarios in the updated annexation study conclude the city of Mukilteo can pull off annexing approximately 11,000 residents but shows revenues will gradually lag behind expenditures beginning in 2015.
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BY MICHAEL WHITNEY
Sheriff’s union opposes annexation, too
MUKILTEO - The latest opponents of Mukilteo’s plans for annexation are skeptical that the city’s Police Department can keep up with patrolling 11,000 additional residents and a stretch of Highway 99 plagued by high crime rates.
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BY KATIE MURDOCH
Mukilteo Fire looking to partner with Lynnwood Fire
MUKILTEO - After rejecting Snohomish County Fire District 1’s offer to join the district, the Mukilteo Fire Department is in negotiations to share personnel with Lynnwood Fire Department.
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BY KATIE MURDOCH
Commentary
How a late term abortion saved my life
EDITOR’S NOTE — This guest commentary is provided by American Forum, a nonprofit, nonpartisan, educational organization that provides the media with the views of experts on major public concerns in order to stimulate informed discussion.
Last month, a man walked into a church in Wichita, Kansas and shot to death Dr. George Tiller. Tiller was volunteering as an usher that Sunday, so he was standing in the lobby of the church when the gunman entered.
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By CECILY KELLOGG
Everett
Port favors wrecking ball over rehabilitation
Stephanie Kimball (right) and Mikel Gobel, both of Everett, protest along W. Marine View Avenue, along with more than 60 other people, during a February rally to save the Collins Building, which stands behind them.
Doug Ramsay photo
EVERETT - After dismissing pleas to allow for more time to come up with the money to save the historic Collins Building on Everett’s waterfront, the Port of Everett Commissioners pushed ahead with plans to demolish the 83-year-old building.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Council OKs red-light cameras
EVERETT - A citywide comparison of intersections show some have more crashes because of drivers running red lights and has prompted city officials to install red-light cameras at six south Everett and downtown intersections and one in a school zone.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Japanese Gulch Group looking to buy time as developer moves on plans
EVERETT - Mukilteo’s Japanese Gulch Group is under pressure to come up with the money to save the gulch from being paved over with warehouses and a parking lot.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Snohomish
Thorndike exits race, leaving 1 contested seat
SNOHOMISH - One of the longest-serving city leaders has decided to exit the council race. Councilman Doug Thorndike, who was being challenged by fellow Councilman Dean Randall, withdrew from the race June 11.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
City mulls alternatives to expand business
SNOHOMISH - After strong citizen outcry scuttled plans to spot zone one block in the city’s historic district from residential to commercial, the city is now presenting to citizens a similar overlay proposal, which would allow the business to expand without changing the underlying zoning.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
City to hire lawyer to sort through federal railway law
SNOHOMISH - The train will be coming, but how far into the city is what the City Council wants to know, and it started the process last week to hire a railway attorney to let the city know its rights.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Monroe
Hospital offers free health seminar, low-cost screenings
MONROE - Seats are still available for a June 27 preventative medicine program at Valley General Hospital. Through the free two-hour presentation focused on audience participation, attendees will learn healthy life habits for preventing cancer, diabetes and thyroid problems, and if they pay $25 will receive heavily discounted lab screening tests. Pre-registration is required.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Target, Costco, Wal-Mart for North Kelsey site?
MONROE - The north half of North Kelsey has a suitor to negotiate with now that the land is open for development.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Mukilteo
City resubmits annexation plan
MUKILTEO - After its first attempt for annexation was shot down last year and a citizens petition was rejected, the city of Mukilteo went into last week’s boundary review board hearing with a polished up proposal it suspects the board will find little to no fault with.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Twitter message raises issue of trust
MUKILTEO - Earlier this month, the Mukilteo City Council approved a rule banning sending “tweets” and text messages during meetings, but no rule can substitute for common sense.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Clinton residents ‘vent’ about Old Town parking
MUKILTEO - The frustration with limited parking in Old Town and commuters who take up slots by leaving their cars overnight and on weekends has not been resolved, but a meeting between Mukilteo officials and Clinton residents at the very least let people clear the air.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Mixed message on ‘open’ youth forum
MUKILTEO - An advertised “open discussion” among youths centering on serious topics to debut the Mukilteo youth advisory committee turned out to be not so open.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Commentary
Profiles of People: The musician
The Centennial Trail, meandering north from Snohomish, passes through a town so small and old it makes Snohomish look large and modern.
Machias was once a vibrant community. Then it became almost a ghost town. Currently it has experienced a revival where the steeple church boasts fresh paint and the old houses appear to smile with inhabited love.
A cemetery rests above Machias and that is where the ancestors of my second profile reside.
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By PATRICIA FRANKLIN
Everett
Port issued demolition permit
EDITOR’S NOTE — This is a clarified and more complete version of the story that appeared in the July 1 print edition.
EVERETT - Despite advice from the city attorney that his motion may not be legal, Everett City Councilman Mark Olson tried to buy time to save the historic Collins Building last week by stalling the permit process to demolish the
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Youths shine at soccer camp
Ana Esquivel, 5, holds up the Italian flag as she leads Jose Del-Rio, 6, and the rest of her soccer team across the field. Volunteer coach Edgar Medina follows behind.
Doug Ramsey Photo
EVERETT - A group of youths huddled on a grassy hill at Walter E. Hall Park on Casino Road last week cheering and waving flags, some counting while former soccer professional Gary White bounced a soccer ball off his forehead.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
City hears from public as it writes first ever historic preservation plan
Built in 1903 on the corner of Hewitt and Lombard avenues, the Mitchell Hotel is one of 100 historic buildings listed on the city of Everett’s historic
Doug Ramsey Photo
EVERETT - Everett historian Dave Dilgard compared the city’s history to a storybook and said last week tearing down a historic building is like ripping pages out of a book.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Commission OKs plans for domestic violence services
EVERETT - An agency that helps victims of domestic violence is closer to getting a new building that would allow the agency to serve four times as many women after the Everett planning commission leaned in favor of the agency’s expansion plans.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Residents beautify area along sound wall
Donna Gleisner places a ribbon on a young maple tree that is one of many trees recently planted along the Interstate 5 sound wall near Summit Avenue in north Everett.
Doug Ramsay photo
EVERETT - The sight of a towering bland sound wall running parallel to Interstate 5 prompted an Everett neighborhood to bring life back to the former location of statuesque native trees that were cut down for the wall.
Approximately 200 native trees and shrubs and 75 Boston ivy plants — which turn a vibrant red during the fall — wind along a three-block
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Monroe
Monroe Wal-Mart?
In shaping North Kelsey, the giant retailer was once a concern among city officials
MONROE - If a developer brought a Wal-Mart to Monroe, would the City Council welcome it in pursuit of much-needed sales tax revenue to run the city?
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Prison deal could be signed this week
MONROE - The clock is ticking for the Department of Corrections to come to an agreement with the city regarding water, sewer and utility tax rates as the city is poised to shut off the prison’s water on July 1.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Snohomish
Police seek help in identifying First Street bar assault suspect
SNOHOMISH- Police now have a sketch of a suspect who may have assaulted and seriously injured a man at The Sports Page bar during an April 11 fight, and are looking to get his name.
The sketch of the white male wearing a hat was released two weeks ago by the Police Department.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Maple Avenue fire station re-opens
SNOHOMISH - After a two-year hiatus, Fire Station 41 on Maple Avenue is back in business.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Father, son team ready for circuit
Jerry Hopp (left) and his son Greg team up to replace an oil pump on the 468 cubic inch supercharged engine of their Unlimited Light racing boat in Stan Sayers Pits at last year’s Seattle Seafair hydroplane races.
Doug Ramsay photo
SNOHOMISH - One would never guess passing by Harvey Field that inside one of those nondescript hangars is the home shop for two legends in the hydroplane racing world.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Budget stabilizing, no need for new cuts
SNOHOMISH - The city coffers are looking all right now that revenues have stabilized and a series of budget cuts put it on track.
While sales tax revenues are still performing lower than desired
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Marysville
Library district asks voters to help close budget gap
MARYSVILLE - The Sno-Isle Libraries district will be turning to voters this election to help with its $2.5 million shortfall, placing a levy increase on the November ballot. The district wants to up the levy from 31 cents to 40 cents per $1,000 assessed home value.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Mukilteo
Illegal fire pits has city questioning legal burns
MUKILTEO - Less than one year after completing the first of four phases to renovate Lighthouse Park costing $3 million, the city is baffled by park visitors who do not seem to lose sleep over damaging someone else’s property.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Annexation measure to go before voters
MUKILTEO - The Snohomish County boundary review board approved Mukilteo’s modified annexation plan after rejecting the city’s first attempt last year.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Waterfront Arts Festival to showcase local talent
MUKILTEO - The Mukilteo Arts Guild’s efforts to offer a seasonal event showcasing local talent flourished into plans for a full-blown all-day arts festival complete with food vendors, children’s activities, live music and the opportunity to meet artists and buy their work.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
School board cuts millions, teachers spared
MUKILTEO - The Mukilteo School Board cut millions from the budget last week that involved reducing para-educator positions, eliminating all but one middle school sports team but cuts did not include laying off teachers.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Snohomish
Where will Kikendall cabin go?
SNOHOMISH - A pioneer cabin that has stood for more than 100 years is finally receiving some needed care, but the next question is whether it will move again.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Rail line purchase pushed back to winter
SNOHOMISH- The train will have to wait another six months.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Thousands vie for police grant money
Snohomish, Monroe among 7,272 nationwide in need of help
SNOHOMISH - The fate of the 20th police officer may be put back in the hands of the City Council come August if a Department of Justice grant the Police Department applied for to fund the officer’s salary does not come through by Sept. 1.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Thieves like hair salon
SNOHOMISH - The Kusler’s Home store in the 700 block of Avenue D was broken into June 26, a first, but for the hair salon next door burglaries have become a strange normalcy.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Health district reminds bars to keep smokers away
SNOHOMISH - In a recent sweep of smoking ban compliance checks by the Snohomish Health District, three Snohomish bars were dinged for having smokers too close to the doorway.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Monroe
Issue over pay raise reaches boiling point as finger-pointing heats up
MONROE - A request from Mayor Donnetta Walser to give interim city administrator Tim Quenzer a pay raise has since snowballed into a political brouhaha that reached a boil last week.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Fair worker transitions into fair-goer
MONROE - Amelia Hazel is not your typical 93-year-old. Hazel has worked one of Monroe’s Evergreen State Fairgrounds’ gates for 10 years as a seasonal fair worker.
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By KATIE PALMER
intern
Prison deal ready for signatures
MONROE - An agreement between the city and the Department of Corrections is almost all but complete, with final signatures anticipated this week, ending an eight-year struggle to make the prison pay up.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
City forecasting further deficits
MONROE - With more stabilized revenue streams, the city will now need to deal with an estimated $87,811 deficit in its general fund.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Everett
Port’s Collins decision challenged
EVERETT - With the help of an attorney, Historic Everett members are challenging the Port of Everett commissioners’ decision to tear down the historic Collins building along Everett’s waterfront later this year.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Shelter for at-risk youths shuts down
EVERETT - A state-funded program that helped at-risk youths and victims of child abuse and neglect closed its Everett facility last week leaving eight staff members without a job and no place in the area for at-risk youths to go for secure housing.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
FCC rules up for discussion July 8
EVERETT - On July 8, the Snohomish County Council will start the decision making process that could scuttle plans to build minicities in the county.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Mukilteo
Opponents can’t believe city gets to move on annexation plan
MUKILTEO - Opponents of Mukilteo’s plan to annex 11,000 people are baffled as to how the city’s proposal was approved by the Snohomish County boundary review board when they believe questions addressing public safety and costs have not been answered.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Farmers market going strong, parking mess a ‘downside’ to new location
MUKILTEO - An eye-pleasing backdrop and extra space at Lighthouse Park has attracted more visitors to the Mukilteo Farmers Market, but the wind and inheriting the city’s heated parking predicament have been the only “downsides,” the market co-manager said last week.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Guest Commentary
Japanese Gulch worth saving
EVERETT - “...You may think you own the land. You do not. It is God’s. The earth is precious to Him to harm the earth is to heap contempt on its Creator. Love the land as those who have gone before you have loved it. Care for it as they have cared for it. And with all your strength, with all your mind, with all your heart, preserve it for your children.” (Chief Seattle)
In 1854 Chief Seattle enriched mankind with the idea that
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By AUDREY DANNAR
Everett
Judge issues hold on demolition permit
EVERETT - A temporary restraining order was placed on the Port of Everett prohibiting the port from “‘demolishing or ‘deconstructing’” the Collins Building
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By KATIE MURDOCH
City takes another look at red-light camera contract
City Council approves use of cameras week before lawsuit filed against such agreements
EVERETT - A lawsuit against 19 cities in King and Pierce counties has Everett officials taking a closer look at its contract to install red-light cameras before signing off on a five-year deal.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Fire levy shelved for 1 year
EVERETT - The Everett Fire Department will wait a year before asking voters for a levy lid lift to cover current expenses that have the department running into the red.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Council asked to strengthen hit and run laws for pedestrians, bicyclists
EVERETT - The Everett City Council could be asked next week to beef up the city’s hit and run laws that if approved, would make it easier to prosecute a driver who leaves the scene after striking someone walking or bicycling.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Rich and Andrea Adams of Snohomish listen to speakers at a rally for a strong public health option in front of the Wall Street Building in Everett on July 9.
Citizens tell senators strong public health option must be included in health care bill
EVERETT - A mother from Oak Harbor stood on the steps of the Wall Street Building in Everett last week reading from a letter she wrote to Sen. Maria Cantwell about her experience with America’s health care system.
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By JESSICA SPARKS
Monroe
Firefighters work to free a Snohomish County Sheriff’s deputy from the wreckage of his patrol car after it was struck by an oncoming vehicle.
Crash on U.S. 2 kills 1, injures deputy
MONROE- One man is dead and a Snohomish County Sheriff’s deputy and a suspect being taken to jail in his patrol car were injured in a fiery head-on collision July 9 on U.S. Highway 2.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
City looking to expand urban growth areas
MONROE - The city is looking at expanding its urban growth area to the northwest and southwest, but the City Council made no final decision on a plan at last week’s meeting.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Mukilteo
City now wants to hear from you
Mukilteo hosts annexation open house for residents
MUKILTEO - Even though they won’t have a vote, Mukilteo residents will get face time with city staff and the council at an annexation open house scheduled for later this month.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Bids go out for community center
MUKILTEO - Two Mukilteo City Council members felt blind-sided after learning the city opened the bidding process for a new community center last month while the rest of council seemed exasperated over the back and forth on the issue.
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By KATIE MURDOCK
Snohomish
HOP HOME FOR THE DAYS
Snohomish’s annual festival kicks off July 15
This year’s Kla Ha Ya Days recognizes Snohomish’s 150th birthday, urging Snohomans to “come home” for the five-day festival July 15-19. Returning this year is the baby crawl, balloon glow, bed races, car show, cherry pit, frog jump, parades, pie eating contest, river run, salmon barbecue, soap box derby and much more. For a complete list of events, visit www.klahayadays.com.
Cities still fighting over land
Lake Stevens challenge to growth board tossed
SNOHOMISH - After talks broke down over contested land between Lake Stevens and Snohomish, Lake Stevens has now failed to halt Snohomish’s latest effort to continue to plan for the area despite the fact neither city has control over the land.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Food bank director dies at home
SNOHOMISH - Food bank director Daryl Bertholet died at his home July 12, a Snohomish Food Bank volunteer told the Tribune early this week. The food bank learned of his death through Kandace Harvey who was notified of his death by Bertholet’s son. Harvey sits on the food bank’s board and was unavailable by press time.
Bertholet was 49. The cause of his death was unknown at press time.
Bertholet was the vice president of the Chamber of Commerce and a former city planner.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
City goes to court to fix lake levels
SNOHOMISH - Fixing the fluctuating water levels at Blackman’s Lake took a small step forward with the City Council hiring a consultant last week.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
State wants cities to crack down on water runoff
SNOHOMISH - You there, washing your car in the driveway. The city may soon being telling you to knock it off or go to a car wash.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Dock repair bumped back, opens next month now
SNOHOMISH - Repair work on the closed southern dock at Hill Park will be delayed to late August because of newfound red tape from the federal Department of Fish and Wildlife Services, public works facilities manager Mike Johnson said last week.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
The new Machias Elementary front entrance.
The new Riverview Elementary will preserve wetlands for student learning. Construction on both schools is scheduled to begin in January.
New elementary schools will be green
SNOHOMISH - The new Riverview and Machias elementary schools will capitalize on new technologies to make them energy efficient and modern.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
New streets will be named after historical figures
SNOHOMISH - The city firmed up its plan for how to name new streets that come into the city, giving them a historic flair.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
EVERETT
Huffing laws to align with state
EVERETT - The Everett City Council was scheduled to update the city’s glue sniffing laws this week that if approved would extend its ban to include even more chemicals used for inhaling and penalize people for selling or delivering products if they are intended for inhaling — known as “huffing.”
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Antiques may get a chance at street level retail space
EVERETT - An antique business veteran wants the city to reverse its rules and allow antique stores to have a street-level presence in Everett’s downtown shopping district, an idea the planning commission warmed to last week.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
MUKILTEO
City in top 10 of best places to live
MUKILTEO - The city of Mukilteo jumped more than 50 spots this year to hold a seat in the top 10 list of CNN/Money Magazine’s list of “100 America’s Best Towns and Cities to Live In.”
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Budget planning looks 10 years out
MUKILTEO - The city of Mukilteo is taking its first stab at piecing together a long range financial plan, in essence giving the city a road map to help them better navigate through revenue shortfalls and accommodate growth.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
SNOHOMISH
Food bank director was enthusiastic about community
SNOHOMISH - Daryl Bertholet, an enthusiastic and high-spirited member of the community, died unexpectedly from a heart attack at home July 12. He was 49.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Resting place of Salem Woods ‘big’ find for historians
SNOHOMISH - An outstanding find in April of where pioneer Salem Woods is buried has historians ecstatic to clear one piece of the puzzle.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Eye Care Center expansion shot down again
SNOHOMISH - When the Snohomish Eye Care Center of the 400 block of Avenue D wanted to expand, city planners said no and neighbors cried spot zoning but the City Council said ‘let’s find a compromise for residents and the business alike.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Profiles of People
The Family
SNOHOMISH - A warm Thursday evening in Snohomish offers few places more inviting than Mardini’s patio for visiting. Many of the town’s citizens sit around food laden tables before heading behind the restaurant to the street market.
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By PATRICIA FRANKLIN
Snohomish
Doug Ramsay photo
Skate park will be relocated to fit new pool facility
SNOHOMISH - When the price tag penciled out for running a new aquatics center, the Snohomish School District had to ratchet down plans and now is focused on making the facility as energy efficient as possible.
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Police chief suggests cameras on First Street
Drunken brawl sends 100 into street over Kla Ha Ya weekend, police say
SNOHOMISH- The Police Department with the help of outside agencies broke up an estimated 100-person brawl that started inside a First Street bar and spilled into the street early in the morning of July 19.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Woman loses car in river, divers pull out 2
SNOHOMISH - Police went fishing last week and found not one but two cars in the Snohomish River at the Maple Street boat launch.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Doug Ramsay photo
Molly Hakso sits on the lawn next to the Snohomish High School sign.
Snohomish student spends summer in Costa Rica learning about sustainability
SNOHOMISH - Some students spend their summers camping, lifeguarding or working. Molly Hakso of Snohomish High School was lucky enough to travel to Costa Rica for 10 days through the organization People to People.
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By KATIE PALMER
intern
Snohomish’s finances in ‘holding pattern’
SNOHOMISH - The city’s coffers are stable and the city should be able to go the year without any major budget modifications, city leaders said last week.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Everett
Port’s Collins cost questioned by Army Corps
Judge freezes demolition permit
EVERETT - Historic Everett has long questioned the Port of Everett’s $12 to $15 million estimate to renovate the historic Collins Building and now the Army Corps of Engineers has sent questions to the port challenging the cost
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Doug Ramsay photo
Northwest Neighborhood Association president Paul Donovan (right) and his neighbor Steve Jensen stack items for the Mother of All Garage Sales in Donovan’s garage last week. The big garage sale is Aug. 1 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Northwest’s big garage sale
EVERETT - Organizers of the Northwest neighborhood’s first community garage sale said they envision a swarm of people exploring and socializing at the event that more than 90 families have signed up to participate in.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Council round up
EVERETT - The Everett City Council beefed up the city’s hit and run laws making it easier to prosecute a driver who leaves the scene after striking someone walking or bicycling.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Public health identifies long-term goals; more cuts on the way
EVERETT - The Snohomish Health District’s 10-year strategic plan, released earlier this month, aims to provide basic services to prevent chronic diseases and injuries and promote health and safety and comes with long-term plans outlining how to achieve those goals.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Monroe
Council gives police chief pulling 4 jobs pay raise but no retroactive payment
MONROE - The question of whether to compensate Police Chief Tim Quenzer — a man who wears four hats in the city — appears settled.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Michael Whitney photo
Residents from Three Rivers Mobile Home and RV Park meet July 14 with attorneys.
Mobile home park faces eviction from county
MONROE - Residents of the Three Rivers Mobile Home and RV Park given an edict by Snohomish County to leave have little to rest easy on, even as the park owner is fighting to keep his residents from being kicked out.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Mukilteo
City mulls short-term, long-term parking solutions
MUKILTEO - Mukilteo is walking a tightrope between attracting visitors to the waterfront and enticing commuters to stop and visit while finding enough parking for visitors and residents without bankrupting the taxpayers.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
EVERETT
Collins dispute moves up to federal level
Port responds to cost estimate questions
EVERETT - The fight to overturn the Port of Everett’s decision to demolish the historic Collins Building and restore it has moved up to the federal level.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Sting at Howarth Park a reminder to keep valuables with you
EVERETT - In response to a rise in vehicle prowls at and around Howarth Park, the Everett Police Department organized an undercover operation at the park earlier this month.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
MONROE
People try to stay comfortable in record-breaking temperatures
With temperatures last week breaking records reaching 103 degrees on July 29, weary residents sought to escape the heat as much as possible.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
SNOHOMISH
Bars will be under heightened scrutiny
City to meet with bar owners next week
SNOHOMISH - In the eyes of the state Liquor Control Board and Police Chief John Turner, the city has a drinking problem.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
MUKILTEO
Community center bids come in lower
MUKILTEO - Mukilteo received 16 construction bids late last week estimating construction costs for a new community center between $8 and $10 million.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Plan for Paine Field doesn't include commercial service
MUKILTEO - As expected, the city of Mukilteo’s recommendations for future development at Paine Field does not include commercial air service at the county-owned airport.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Youth council gets things done
MUKILTEO - Talk about motivated.
During its second meeting, members of the Mukilteo youth advisory committee addressed social bullying and substance abuse for a future public forum for their peers,
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Council senses politics reason for mayor's decision
MUKILTEO - Mukilteo Mayor Joe Marine refused to nominate a parks and arts commissioner for another term because his attendance record “concerned” him.
Commissioner E. Scott Casselman missed two out of 13 meetings during his three-year term, according to meeting minutes.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
SNOHOMISH COUNTY
Snohomish gets money to fund police officer, Monroe left out
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - Snohomish and Everett each received money to fund police officers while Monroe was left with nothing.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Somers faces 3 in Aug. 18 primary
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - The race for County Council District 5 held by Democrat Dave Somers has three challengers looking to unseat the incumbent.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
EVERETT
Collins issue could go to voters
EVERETT - To come up with the estimated $15 million to restore the historic Collins Building, Port of Everett staff recommended a property tax levy last week that would save the building and let voters weigh in on the matter.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
City puts brakes on red-light camera plans
EVERETT - The Everett City Council put the brakes on the city’s plans to install red-light cameras this fall to sidestep any potential of being pulled into pending litigation against 19 cities that use red-light cameras.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Business offers free home cleaning for cancer patients
EVERETT - The owners of an Everett cleaning franchise are offering free services to cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation in hopes patients feel reassured their homes are being taken care of while they are on the mend.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
MONROE
Two seats face primaries
MONROE - The six candidates gunning for two vacated City Council seats first will have to get through the Aug. 18 primary. Under Washington’s voting system, the top two vote getters advance to the general election in November.
Newcomers and old faces are all vying for a spot.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Mayoral battle soon to lose 1
MONROE - There are currently three candidates aiming to be Monroe’s mayor for the next four years, but after Aug. 18’s primary there will be two. Under Washington’s voting system, the top two vote-getters advance to the general election in November.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Makeover contest a chance at fresh outlook, style
MONROE - A band of Monroe businesswomen plan to give a set of lucky winners makeovers to give them confidence, spirit and a fresh style.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
MUKILTEO
City has only 1 primary race
MUKILTEO - Mukilteo City Councilman Richard Emery has two opponents, Ed Kunigonis and Bruce Simpson challenging him for his seat on council in the city’s only primary race.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
SNOHOMISH
Eye Care Center considering lawsuit
SNOHOMISH - When the City Council opted to deny the Snohomish Eye Care Center’s wishes to expand last week, stating the request should again be sent through the annual Comprehensive Plan process in a 4-1 vote, they thought they had nipped it in the bud.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
2-million-year-old fossil up for bid
SNOHOMISH - Here’s something you don’t find every day. The Snohomish Senior Center will feature a 2 million-year-old fossil as one of many live auction items the night of Aug. 15 in what the center has dubbed the greatest auction ever.
By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Towers appeal begins Friday
SNOHOMISH - The trial whether the Snohomish County Council erred by permitting two more AM radio towers in the Snohomish River Valley is set to start this week in King County Superior Court. The trial starts Aug. 14 at 9 a.m. in the courtroom of Judge Douglass North.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Allie Boyd, 18, of Snohomish peels bananas that will be used to make smoothies at the Grilla Bites restaurant on First Street in Snohomish. All of the restaurant's food scraps are collected for composting.
Doug Ramsay photo
County composting program growing quickly
SNOHOMISH - Restaurants and facilities in the county are embracing a composting program that is keeping materials out of landfills.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Sewage line to Everett moving along
SNOHOMISH - The city’s project to separate its sewer and stormwater pipes is ready to go out to bid and the pump station the project requires may include stainless steel fish motifs for artwork.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Cities crack down on stormwater runoff
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - The cities of Snohomish and Monroe now have stricter regulations regarding what goes into storm drains, passed by their respective city councils last week.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
EVERETT
In tough economic time, port goes for $15 million levy for Collins
EVERETT- The decision whether to restore the historic Collins Building will go to the voters this November.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Opponents use town hall to criticize more than health care
EVERETT - U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen asked a packed stadium in Everett last week what they thought was acceptable with the health care system status quo and what wasn’t.
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By KATIE MURDOCH and
JESSICA SPARKS
MONROE
City considers buying flood prone motel
Residents would need to move
MONROE - Tired of constant flooding and fearing that the government may pull flood insurance coverage on the property, Monroe is eyeing a Federal Emergency Management Agency grant to buy out the flood prone Monroe Motel on Old Owen Road along Woods Creek.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
MUKILTEO
Mukilteo annex plans
MUKILTEO - There’s been a snag in the city of Mukilteo’s plans to annex approximately 11,000 people into the city.
Fire District 1 officials filed an appeal Aug. 6 in Snohomish County Superior Court challenging the Boundary Review Board’s vote to allow Mukilteo to move ahead with its annexation plans.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
SNOHOMISH
Police search for man who held up 7-Eleven, Chevron
SNOHOMISH - A slender white male armed with a knife held up the Chevron and 7-Eleven on Avenue D last week in two early morning robberies.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Not all want skate park moved
SNOHOMISH - Current conceptual plans for the new larger aquatics center to replace Hal Moe Pool would mean the skate park would have to move, but not all in the community want that to happen.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
County Council bans minicities
SNOHOMISH COUNTY- A controversial development tool that plops new cities into rural areas was killed by the Snohomish County Council last week in a 3-2 vote.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Woman sues city, former police officer
SNOHOMISH - A lawsuit has been filed against the city of Snohomish by a woman who alleges she endured a month of sexual harassment last year by former police officer Corey Cook, who has a long disciplinary history, according to internal city documents.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Judge tosses towers appeal
Radio company plans to begin ground work on remaining 2 towers this week
SNOHOMISH - Shock and pall was felt Aug. 14 by residents in the scenic Snohomish River Valley as King County Superior Court Judge Douglass North threw out their appeal challenging the Snohomish County Council’s decision to overturn a hearing examiner’s denial of two new AM radio towers in the valley.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
EVERETT
Doug Ramsay photo
The new and improved Lions Park
EVERETT - After a six-month, $1.3 million renovation, Lions Park reopened with a daylong celebration Aug. 15. The 3-acre park, located in the Pinehurst-Beverly Park neighborhood in south Everett,
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Swift Route on time, under budget, officials say
EVERETT - On schedule and under budget, the Swift Route is shaping up to offer expeditious transportation in Snohomish County starting Nov. 30.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Public health cuts again; work force down 22 percent from year ago
EVERETT - The Snohomish Health District tightened its belt further in a third round of budget cuts approved earlier this month that will cut local public health programs and reduce its employee head count to 205, a 22 percent reduction compared to 262 in August 2008.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Table tennis picks up speed
EVERETT - The Everett Senior Center is a place where many puzzles are completed, paperbacks read, and now where table tennis is played with exciting intensity.
Walking into the senior center, there is a comfy library, a coffee bar and then the table tennis room. It’s a bit different from the rest of the center. Many seniors are getting into their games with a few watching intently, waiting for their next match. The energy is warm and friendly but the room is also filled with competition.
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By KATIE PALMER
intern
MONROE
Unofficial drop out wins primary
MONROE - The leading candidate in the primary race for City Council position 2, Todd Fredrickson, originally was not going to make it a challenge after receiving a cancer scare, and unofficially pulled out of the race.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Frye, Williams advance to general
MONROE - The top two candidates for City Council position 3 were separated by nine votes in the latest tally available at press time.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Mayor leading by 100 votes
MONROE - Mayor Donnetta Walser was leading by 100 votes in the latest figures available at press time and former Councilman Robert Zimmerman pulled further ahead of Councilman Mitch Ruth in the race for mayor.
Walser had 710 or 37 percent of the vote as of Aug. 20. Zimmerman had 610 or about 32 percent and Ruth 571 or about 30 percent.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
MUKILTEO
Council sets citywide park hours
MUKILTEO - Working out new regulations for its parks, primarily dealing with what goes on after dark, the City Council was split on many aspects but came to agreement that the current parking rules are enough to dissuade ferry commuters at Lighthouse Park and to create new enforceable hours of operation for the parks.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Gulch group hires attorney
MUKILTEO - The Japanese Gulch Group now has an attorney to review whether the study work done by the city of Everett was correct, which the group says was not.
The group recently hired land use lawyer David Bricklin of Bricklin and Newman and his task is clear — to scrutinize the work done by Everett to allow a developer to stick a warehouse in Japanese Gulch, an open space inside Everett city limits along the Mukilteo border.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Emery sails through primary
MUKILTEO - Voters gave incumbent Richard Emery a sweeping lead over Ed Kunigonis in the City Council primary for position 2 last week. Kunigonis meanwhile leads solidly over candidate Bruce Simpson by more than 250 votes.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
SNOHOMISH
Eye Care Center may have found way to expand
SNOHOMISH - The owners of the Snohomish Eye Care Center have found a rule regarding conditional use permits that building owners Dr. Anup Deol-Knutsen and John Knutsen say will let them expand their business by default and despite the criticism from neighbors.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Historic restoration receives award
SNOHOMISH - The rehabilitation of 901 First St. was given special recognition by the Snohomish Historical Society Aug. 12, and owner Zouhair Mardini and architect Josh Scott of Mosaic Architecture will be given the society’s one time Founders’ Historic Preservation Award for their work.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Somers wins big, advances to general
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - Snohomish County Councilman Dave Somers and Steve Dana, Republican, will advance to the Nov. 3 general election as third-place Republican challenger Vern Little conceded the race late last week for the 5th District.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
EVERETT
County beefs up airport legal fund just in case
EVERETT- The Snohomish County Council quadrupled the county’s legal fund in case it is sued over negotiating commercial flights at Paine Field. The fund will also help the county navigate through environmental studies and negotiations with airlines.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
Bike safety project to begin soon
EVERETT - Construction on safety improvements along the third segment of the bicyclist and pedestrian corridor along West Marine View Drive in Everett could begin as early as this month.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
MONROE
For families, help for school supplies great
MONROE - At local organizations handing out school supplies, a necessary boost from the community could not come at a better time.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Katrina survivor helps others find jobs, hope
MONROE - A resource for job hunters just opened up closer to home. Now with affiliation with WorkSource, the center at 19705 U.S. Highway 2 run by the state Department of Social and Health Services has strengthened itself to include an integrated jobs resource center.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
MUKILTEO
Council awards bid to build new community center
MUKILTEO- Proponents of saving Rosehill Community Center in Mukilteo have one more year to cherish the former school before it is torn down to make way for a new community center.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
New venue, parking for 44th Lighthouse Festival
MUKILTEO - One of the biggest changes to this year’s Mukilteo Lighthouse Festival is parking.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
SNOHOMISH
2010 budget will be lean
Eyman initiative would keep it that way
SNOHOMISH - The city’s 2010 budget, as predicted, will be conservative as city leaders are making no giant hopes the economy will improve anytime soon. What would further gum up the works would be if the newest tax-slashing Tim Eyman initiative passes, restricting the city from growing with the revenues it generates.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Cameras on First Street may be tough sell for police chief
SNOHOMISH - What was supposed to be a chance to talk about alcohol overservice that has long been a concern of police was blunted last month by a number of bar owners that kept quiet, opting to let their attorney do the talking.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
EVERETT
Port pulls Collins levy from ballot
EVERETT- After voting to put it on the November ballot, the Port of Everett Commission reversed course and voted to pull the one-time $15 million levy measure to restore the historic Collins Building that sits on the waterfront.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
County executive vetoes ban on mini-cities
EVERETT - County Executive Aaron Reardon vetoed the County Council’s 3-2 decision to ban mini-cities. Now the County Council is mulling whether it could override the veto or put more restrictions on such developments.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
City taking comment on renaming senior center after Carl Gipson
EVERETT - Carl Gipson, 84, moved to Everett during the 1950s into a predominately white neighborhood. Approximately 20 years later, Gipson made history when in 1971 he became the first black man elected to serve on the Everett City Council.
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By KATIE MURDOCH
MONROE
Zimmerman’s bid for mayor brings back politicized past
MONROE - The race for mayor in the general election will be between a longtime public servant and a former council member who spent most of his tenure working to tear down the city’s ethics ordinance when he wasn’t missing meetings.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Citizens work to save a piece of history
MONROE - The iconic steamstack at Main Street and U.S. Highway 2 is not going anywhere yet, its property manager said last week.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
His time may be short, but interim chief wants to move hospital forward
MONROE - Valley General Hospital’s interim CEO Phil Sandifer has no plans to take the reins permanently, but he is in the process of moving the hospital forward.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
SNOHOMISH
Vandals bring down 2 KRKO towers
SNOHOMISH - Hours before the Tribune went to press on Sept. 4, federal authorities were investigating who was responsible for bringing down two of KRKO’s AM radio towers located in the scenic Snohomish River Valley.
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By TRIBUNE STAFF
OPINION
A Labor Day for a 21st century
Every year, we celebrate Labor Day to honor the work of everyday Americans who built this country brick by brick, community by community. It’s an honorable holiday that pays tribute to honorable work.
By BRIAN MILLER
guest columnist
Labor Day should honor worker choice, not forced unionism
Labor Day is often branded as the last opportunity for summer fun — barbecues, weekend getaways, and trips to the lake. We remind ourselves about the reasons for holidays at other times of the year, so why should Labor Day be any different? Perhaps this year it’s time to view this day through a different len.
By RACHEL CULBERTSON and SCOTT DILLEY
guest columnists
EVERETT
Health district finds money to save program serving vulnerable mothers, for now
EVERETT - In the face of massive budget cuts that have stripped Snohomish Health District to the bare essentials, an unexpected and last-minute funding source will save a 10-year-old program pairing nurses with at-risk pregnant women.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Health officials ready for return of swine flu
EVERETT - The Snohomish Heath District is meeting flu season with preparations to combat the H1N1 virus, a new strain of influenza that emerged this spring from Mexico.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
MONROE
Candidates talk about issues at senior center forum
MONROE - Candidates at all levels representing Monroe faced off Sept. 10 at the East County Senior Center. The mayoral and City Council candidates, as well as the candidates for County Council District 5, spoke at the two-hour forum, attended by approximately 75 people.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
MUKILTEO
City recognizes Japanese Gulch volunteers
MUKILTEO - When Duane Acheson talks about spending time outdoors, a warm, excited smile spreads across his face. Every summer, Acheson takes his family backpacking, hiking the trails and fishing.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
City sells center bonds at lower interest rate
MUKILTEO - The Mukilteo City Council voted last week to approve financing a new community center on the Rosehill site by selling bonds at a much better rate than officials expected.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
SNOHOMISH
Domestic violence shelter 1 step closer to housing more clients
SNOHOMISH - When Kathy Christensen decided to move to a shelter to escape her abusive husband, the shelter’s location was so secret even she didn’t know where it was.
“They told me to meet them at a grocery store to make sure I wasn’t followed,” Christensen said.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Station owners says opponents, not ELF, responsible
SNOHOMISH - KRKO 1380 AM president Andy Skotdal is pinning the Sept. 4 takedown of two radio towers on local opponents, unconvinced ecoterrorists actually did it.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
EVERETT
Reardon releases his budget; council says thanks but no thanks
EVERETT - Continued furloughs and wage cuts marked some of the cost-saving measures in County Executive Aaron Reardon’s proposed 2010 budget.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Sept. 23, 2009
Cities join social networking world
EVERETT - Welcome to City Government 2.0.
Everett and Mukilteo officials spent the summer launching online tools — such as streaming video and social networking profiles — giving residents newfound access to city issues.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Sept. 23, 2009
Rental owners pleased with new housing ordinance
EVERETT - Outcry from rental property owners has dramatically changed the Everett City Council’s approach to improving substandard housing.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Sept. 23, 2009
Japanese Gulch developer tells city plans on hold
EVERETT- Plans to develop the Japanese Gulch wetlands into warehouses are on hold indefinitely, giving Everett’s City Council a chance to tighten environmental regulations before the company submits a formal application, according to city officials.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Sept. 23, 2009
MONROE
Police arrest 2 for Miracle League Field damage
MONROE - Two local 12-year-old boys were arrested and later released for malicious mischief after allegedly admitting to police they vandalized the new Miracle League Field and Sky River Park, the Monroe Police Department said last week.
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By TRIBUNE STAFF
Published Sept. 23, 2009
Caring women get makeovers
MONROE - Three women were honored with makeovers at a grand ceremony last week. Each has a story to tell and overcame circumstances that made them special enough to be winners in the first annual Monroe Makeover Contest.
The top three winners were Cindy Locke of Lynnwood; Nancy Anderson of Snohomish and Suzanne Madche of Monroe.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Sept. 23, 2009
MUKILTEO
Graduates opt for community college
MUKILTEO - Students who graduated from Kamiak or Mariner high schools in 2008 were more likely to choose community college over four-year universities than previous years, according to a recently-released survey from the Mukilteo School District.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Sept. 23, 2009
Residents not liking Old Town plan
MUKILTEO - Plans for revitalizing Old Town — including a footbridge to the waterfront and senior housing at Fifth Street and Lincoln Avenue — have not wooed residents, who fear businesses encroaching on their single-family neighborhood.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Sept. 23, 2009
SNOHOMISH
Chief wants to use grant money for cameras
SNOHOMISH - Cameras on First Street may be funded in part with money originally intended for Tasers and other equipment. The cards will lay with the City Council, which needs to OK the project.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Sept. 23, 2009
Utility rates set to go up as city sticks to its plan
SNOHOMISH - Water utility rates will increase next year as planned with no major surprises, but it will mean an almost $210 annual increase for the average family.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Sept. 23, 2009
Highway 9 cities join to get money flowing for projects
SNOHOMISH - Taking the lead on finding funding to finish making state Route 9 four lanes from 176th Street near Snohomish to Arlington, a regional grassroots coalition kicked off Sept. 18.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Sept. 23, 2009
Citizens group says sabotage not connected to their lawful battle
SNOHOMISH - The citizens group that fought to block the construction of six AM radio towers in the scenic Snohomish River Valley by collecting donations feel that the accusation by KRKO sports radio station owner Andy Skotdal’s statements that “local opponents” took down two of his towers on Sept. 4 is designed to discredit their efforts.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
and JESSICA SPARKS
Published Sept. 23, 2009
SNOHOMISH
Cars big and small line Snohomish street
SNOHOMISH - Bret Provazek, 1, of Federal Way checks out a toy peddle car at the 27th annual Snohomish Classic Car and Hot Rod Display Sept. 27. More than 550 vehicles were on display in downtown Snohomish and thousands of car enthusiasts packed the streets.
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Doug Ramsay Photo
Published Sept. 30, 2009
Neighborhood hit by string of burglaries
SNOHOMISH-A recent string of break-ins has neighbors in the Stone Ridge neighborhood on alert.
The burglaries are a good reminder to keep all doors and windows
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Sept. 30, 2009
City Council to decide where Kikendall cabin will go
SNOHOMISH - The City Council will get to decide the fate of the Kikendall cabin Oct. 6, but the cabin is expected to move to a piece of land where other historic buildings now exist in the Machias area.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Sept. 30, 2009
MONROE
From boom to bust, city negotiating second North Kelsey refinance
MONROE - When the city bought North Kelsey, the risks appeared low because the market was riding high. Working with a developer, the city thought this was a great purchase and a way to create a community-oriented shopping center.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Sept. 30, 2009
Council members scouting building for possible City Hall?
MONROE - Prompted by a sudden opportunity, the city will be taking select City Council members on a private tour of at least one property the city may be eyeing to purchase — possibly for a new city hall building.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Sept. 30, 2009
EVERETT
Lewd law up for revision
City says amendments not related to bikini barista bust
EVERETT - A new version of the city’s “lewd conduct ordinance” would define lewd acts and add businesses with a “drive-up window” to the list of places where those acts are prohibited.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Sept. 30, 2009
College handles more students, aid requests
Students return to Everett Community College for fall quarter.
Doug Ramsay photo
EVERETT - The school year is underway, and already, Everett Community College is seeing more — more students, more financial aid requests and more online learning opportunities.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Sept. 30, 2009
Everett Transit to add, increase service in November
EVERETT - Everett Transit bus service routes will change Nov. 29, adding routes and increasing service in areas throughout the city. Transportation officials presented a draft for new routes Sept. 23 and are accepting public input until Sept. 30.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Sept. 30, 2009
MUKILTEO
Mayoral candidates debate issues
Mayoral candidate Pat Smith answers a question during a debate Sept. 22 hosted by the Chamber of Commerce. Mayor Joe Marine, behind, listens.
Lindsay Toler photo
While candidates agree on some issues, challenger says there is a choice in this race.
MUKILTEO - Mayor Joe Marine says he makes “no apology” for the 20-page city newsletter sent to residents earlier this month, despite residents who complained he used the city-funded newsletter to campaign
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Sept. 30, 2009
Crime prevention officer back from Afghanistan
MUKILTEO - When Cheol Kang returned to the Mukilteo Police Department after serving as a Navy reservist in Afghanistan, he knew just what he wanted.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Sept. 30, 2009
City gets grant to build ladders to bring salmon back to gulch
MUKILTEO - A new city project could bring more fish into Japanese Gulch by building a series of ladders guiding them from Possession Sound deep into the gulch.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Sept. 30, 2009
SNOHOMISH COUNTY
Poisonings lead unintentional deaths
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - Poisonings have passed car accidents as the leading cause of unintentional deaths in Snohomish County, and prescription painkillers may be to blame, according to a Snohomish Health District study.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Sept. 30, 2009
EVERETT
Memo: Developer’s priority to remove Collins Building
EVERETT - Residents in favor of saving the historic Collins Building on Everett’s waterfront have obtained a memo that they believe shows the Port of Everett and developer partner Maritime Trust had no intention of saving the 83-year-old building.
Reporter Michael Whitney contributed to this article.
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By JESSICA SPARKS
Published Oct. 7, 2009
Council beefs up lewd law, promises to bring more restrictions
EVERETT- The Everett City Council voted to extend its lewd conduct laws to drive-up “bikini barista” espresso stands and is preparing to take further action later this month.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 7, 2009
Everett Community College graduate Laura Jungbauer identifies native plants on EvCC’s campus, while students Asawin Mahotan (left) and A. Eddie Herrera Jr. take notes. Jungbauer is earning a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from Western Washington University’s Huxley College through University Center at EvCC. Max Phipps photo, Everett Community College student
College offers classes for jobs of the future
EVERETT - Students at Everett Community College are going green.
This semester, 10 students are enrolled in a pilot program to earn bachelor’s degrees in environmental studies from Western Washington University without having to leave Everett.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 7, 2009
New artist community bears name of longtime supporter
EVERETT - It was a strange sight — hundreds of people braving the first sputters of fall rain to tour the half-finished, brown-gray building that will one day be the Schack Art Center.
Until, that is, you realize that no one came for the tour. Everyone came for Idamae.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 7, 2009
MONROE
Some good North Kelsey news?
Mayor brings letter of intent to purchase that if closes could almost pay off south side
MONROE - Mayor Donnetta Walser will present a letter of intent to City Council, a step to begin negotiations for a purchase agreement, with Seattle-based developer Sabey Corp. for Sabey to purchase the former Lakeside Industries property on the north side of North Kelsey — a potential deal that would almost pay off the $11 million debt the city holds on the south side.
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By JESSICA SPARKS and
MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 7, 2009
City eyeing Lake Tye Building
Council to discuss possible purchase this week
MONROE - The city is considering buying the Lake Tye Building in the Fryelands, but if purchased, would not turn it into a new city hall immediately.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 7, 2009
Election news:
Fredrickson, Cudaback vie for position 2
MONROE - Todd Fredrickson and Patsy Cudaback are running for City Council Position 2 being vacated by Geoffrey Thomas and both say they will work for the people.
The general election is Nov. 3.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 7, 2009
Frye, Williams compete for position 3
MONROE - Jeff Frye and Tom Williams are running for City Council Position 3, being vacated by Councilman Mitch Ruth after his failed attempt to run for mayor.
The general election is Nov. 3.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 7, 2009
MUKILTEO
SOC endorses Marine for mayor, calls it tough choice
MUKILTEO - Save Our Communities, the leading group against bringing commercial flights to Paine Field, announced their endorsement of Joe Marine for mayor last week.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 7, 2009
City newsletter not repeat of ‘inadvertent mistake’ 8 years ago
MUKILTEO - As the race for Mukilteo mayor heats up, residents are asking about allegations that Joe Marine used state money to fund campaign materials while serving as a state representative.
So what’s true, and what’s not?
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 7, 2009
SNOHOMISH
Design work begins for Bickford/U.S. 2 overpass
SNOHOMISH - Design work started last month on an overpass and onramp that gives drivers going westbound from Bickford Avenue onto U.S. 2 a much safer route. Currently drivers must dodge high speed eastbound U.S. 2 traffic by turning across those lanes to get to the westbound ones.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 7, 2009
ELF strikes again, alludes to future action
SNOHOMISH - Supporters of the Earth Liberation Front, a decentralized organization deemed a domestic terror threat by the FBI, struck again two weeks ago in the Maltby area with a spray-painted statement suggesting serious future damage in the county.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 7, 2009
EVERETT
Questions raised over public process
Developer’s strategy for Collins lines up with what actually happened
Valerie Steel of Historic Everett speaks to a group of Collins Building supporters at a February rally to bring awareness to save the building. Doug Ramsay Photo
EVERETT - A plan outlining how developers could demolish the Collins Building without backlash from the community, elected officials or the media eerily mirrors strategies used during the following five years of controversy.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 14, 2009
City delays new stormwater rules for developers
EVERETT - Everett city officials are delaying adoption of stricter stormwater regulations in order to make them easier on developers.
The new stormwater rules play a vital part in the battle over Japanese Gulch, where Auburn’s Latitude Development has a plan to develop the wetlands into warehouses.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 14, 2009
Nicole Brown Simpson’s sister speaks out
Denise Brown, sister of domestic violence victim Nicole Brown Simpson, speaks with an attendee at Domestic Violence Services’ fundraising luncheon earlier this month. Lindsay Toler Photo
EVERETT - When Nicole Brown Simpson was murdered 15 years ago, her sister Denise says her world was turned upside down.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 14, 2009
MONROE
Mayor lays out her plans for city
Zimmerman says he will only answer prepared questions via e-mail
MONROE - Former Councilman Robert Zimmerman wants to oust Mayor Donnetta Walser this November, but he refuses to be interviewed unless prepared questions are
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 14, 2009
Council rejects North Kelsey deal for lack of specific site plan
MONROE - In a 4-2 vote that stunned some, the City Council voted against entering into a preliminary agreement with Sabey Corp. to start negotiations for the purchase of the north side of North Kelsey.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 14, 2009
Goering, Woods vie for position 1
MONROE - Councilman Kurt Goering aims to defend his seat from challenger Katy Woods this November. Goering was appointed to council in October 2007, taking Robert Zimmerman’s seat after Zimmerman stepped down early.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 14, 2009
Council passes on building for new city hall
MONROE - The Monroe City Council will no longer look at turning the Lake Tye Building into a new city hall, with a 4-2 majority stating collectively it is the right price but wrong time to buy.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 14, 2009
SNOHOMISH COUNTY
I-1033 would be ‘devastating,’ city officials say
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - Cities across Snohomish County are using one word to describe the effects of ballot Initiative 1033 on their budgets: Devastating.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 14, 2009
MUKILTEO
Budget won’t be released until Nov. 2
MUKILTEO - City officials have delayed releasing Mukilteo’s 2010 proposed budget until the day before ballots are due for the November election.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 14, 2009
First batch of H1N1 vaccines arrive
MUKILTEO - Initial batches of vaccines for H1N1 influenza arrived last week, and health care officials and front-line emergency workers were first to be immunized.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 14, 2009
Community center ground breaking Oct. 17
MUKILTEO - The groundbreaking for the new Community Center is Oct. 17 at 10:30 a.m. Designed by ARC Architects, the $8.5 million, two-story, 29,000-square-foot building occupies a prominent site in Old Town Mukilteo, formerly the home of the Rosehill School. To respect the site’s
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 14, 2009
SNOHOMISH
2010 budget avoids layoffs, furloughs
SNOHOMISH - There will be no layoffs or furloughs according to a lean forecast for the city’s coffers next year. The budget was released last week and the city does not
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 14, 2009
MONROE
Prison stays off closure list
MONROE - A unit at the Monroe Correctional Complex was not named for closure in a draft report released last week as the state seeks to cut down on the number of beds for the Department of Corrections.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 21, 2009
City hoping for bump in sales tax revenue as budget talks begin
MONROE - The 2010 budget includes no layoffs, no furloughs, but the question now is how much money will be in the general fund to start off the year.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 21, 2009
Take two: City Council will vote on $9.6 million North Kelsey deal
MONROE - The developer that wants to build a big-box store at North Kelsey will come back to the table at this week’s City Council meeting, according to the council agenda released Oct. 15.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 21, 2009
Police bust large pot growing operation
MONROE - Anonymous tips led to two marijuana growing operations and five arrests last week.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 21, 2009
Church rezone rejected
MONROE - Offering basically the same rezone request rejected by the City Council last year, Heritage Baptist Fellowship was shot down again by the planning commission last week.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 21, 2009
Zimmerman would reduce role of mayor if elected
MONROE - Mayoral candidate Robert Zimmerman would not make the position of mayor a “full-time job,” a contrast to current Mayor Donnetta Walser who said she puts in “time and a half” for the city.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 21, 2009
MUKILTEO
Candidates differ on city’s annexation plans
MUKILTEO - As the Nov. 3 General Election draws nearer, all eyes are focused on an issue residents say could change the look and feel of Mukilteo forever — annexation.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 21, 2009
School district looking at smaller levy to pay for pressing repairs
MUKILTEO - As the economy continues to tighten the Mukilteo School District’s budget, the school board may postpone asking voters for money to build a new elementary school and instead ask for just enough money to fix major needs.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 21, 2009
Council agrees on top priorities
MUKILTEO - The Mukilteo City Council has named the tank farm, Paine Field and Japanese Gulch as its top priorities as it works to develop next year’s budget.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 21, 2009
Expansion of rights law up for vote
Referendum 71 asks voters to approve or reject new domestic partnership law
MUKILTEO - Karin Mitchell is on a diet.
Well, she has to be, Mitchell says. She’s got a big event coming up.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 21, 2009
SNOHOMISH
Snohomish Festival of Pumpkins Oct. 24
SNOHOMISH - On Oct. 24, downtown Snohomish will host a series of fun events such as the Snohomish River Greatest Pumpkin River Race, carved pumpkin contest, pie eating contest and more.
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City plans bicycle routes
SNOHOMISH - The City Council will be looking at approving bicycle routes, including routes along First Street, Avenue A and the Lowell-Snohomish River Road.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 21, 2009
Snohomish: Then and Now
Woodbury Sinclair’s tombstone is marking no grave.
The sad story begins with his sudden death in 1872, just after Woodbury and his wife Mary Low had platted the eastern section of the town site newly named “Snohomish.”
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By WARNER BLAKE
special to the Tribune
Published Oct. 21, 2009
SNOHOMISH COUNTY
It’s that time of year to go batty, but where are the bats?
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - Halloween draws closer, people tend to go a little batty.
There’s bat movies, bat costumes, bat decorations — even bat-themed candy bar wrappers. But despite their holiday popularity, bats aren’t around in October because they’re hibernating.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 21, 2009
Fewer ballot drop offs due to budget cuts
SNOHOMISH COUNTY- The Snohomish County Auditor’s Office cut back the number of ballot drop-off locations in the county to five staffed locations and one 24-hour drop box due to budget cuts.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 21, 2009
The Legislature expanded all the rights, responsibilities, benefits and obligations of married couples to same-sex and senior registered domestic partners — a wonderful step toward equality for all of our fellow citizens.
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By JESSICA SPARKS
Published Oct. 21, 2009
Health summit highlights what area is doing right, what needs improvement
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - As the Senate Finance Committee passed its health care bill in Washington, D.C., medical and business professionals gathered in Washington state to discuss how they’re already reforming health care — and how the challenges they face are as strong as ever.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 21, 2009
Library district asks for levy increase
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - In tough economic times, libraries face a conundrum: how to meet the increasing need of the unemployed, homeless or other residents in need while facing serious financial struggles.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 21, 2009
EVERETT
Federal historic council sides with port on costs, but advises port to reconsider
EVERETT - The latest chapter in the ongoing saga over the Collins Building’s fate has to do with numbers — mostly in the millions.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 28, 2009
Stephanson, Johnson vie for mayor
EVERETT - For Everett residents who strongly favor capping government growth, their votes in the Nov. 3 election could have double the impact.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 28, 2009
Three seats up on Everett City Council
EVERETT - Three City Council spots are up for grabs in next week’s election, and at least one race will bring a new face to the council.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 28, 2009
Candidates vie for seat on port commission
EVERETT - The three-member commission that governs the Port of Everett will be shaken up this year as two of the positions are up for election and no incumbents are running.
The district 1 seat will go to either Troy McClelland, former naval officer and current businessman, or Mark Olson,
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 28, 2009
MONROE
It’s all about Halloween for Monroe man
MONROE - Monsters, ghouls and clowns. John Schwinn has them all in his front yard to entertain people passing by.
For Schwinn, Halloween is not just a holiday. It is the best day of the year.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 28, 2009
All on board this time as council approves talks with North Kelsey developer
MONROE - The City Council unanimously signed a letter of intent to start negotiations with a Seattle developer that wants to bring a big-box store to North Kelsey, a reversal of its 4-2 vote three weeks ago.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 28, 2009
MUKILTEO
Mariner students help researchers find way to assist teens to quit smoking
MUKILTEO- With the help of the 2004 seniors at Mariner High School, the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center says it has found a way to significantly impact young people’s ability to stop smoking through personalized phone counseling.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 28, 2009
Emery, Kunigonis vie for position 2
MUKILTEO - When Ed Kunigonis, a Mukilteo resident whose passion is the power of the people, heard no one was challenging Councilman Richard Emery for his seat,
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 28, 2009
Stoltz, Cooper compete for position 1
MUKILTEO - The race for position 1 on the City Council pits an incumbent with a reputation for challenging majority opinion, especially Mayor Joe Marine’s, against a challenger who’s fallen in line with the mayor’s platform.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 28, 2009
SNOHOMISH
Neighbors will have their say at Nov. 2 open house
SNOHOMISH - Neighbors denouncing a warehouse built in the middle of their block on Lincoln Avenue see an upcoming open house as perhaps their best way to be heard by the city, but for some the damage is already done.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 28, 2009
Ballas, Pratt vie for school board
SNOHOMISH - Shaunna Ballas and Gregory Pratt have different approaches to what the school district should focus on for curriculum improvements.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 28, 2009
City’s only contested race: Hamilton vs. Crawford
SNOHOMISH - Marc Crawford and Tom Hamilton are angling for an open seat on the City Council.
Crawford does marketing for a roofing company. He ran against Councilwoman Lynn Schilaty in 2007 for the seat vacated by Lya Badgley.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Oct. 28, 2009
H1N1 vaccines arrive this week, list of clinics online
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - Vaccinations for H1N1 influenza, also known as swine flu, will be out later this week, but schools are saying the flu is already here.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Oct. 28, 2009
EVERETT
Clinics asked to help screen more people for STDs
EVERETT - As the struggling economy forced the Snohomish Health District to cut its sexually transmitted disease testing program,
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 4, 2009
Boeing leaves for workers willing to decertify union
EVERETT - For the first time in The Boeing Co. history, the aerospace giant will reach outside the Puget Sound region for a new commercial airplane assembly site.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 4, 2009
Heading into winter, bare shelves worry food bank
EVERETT - At first glance, the shelves at the Everett Food Bank look full. Huge, warehouse-style platforms hold shrink-wrapped crates and cardboard boxes brimming with cans and packages.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 4, 2009
Mayor releases proposed budget
Citizens can comment online or at Nov. 4 council meeting
EVERETT - Everett officials released the 2010 proposed budget last week, which shows about $112 million in revenue for the general fund, down $6.6 million from the original 2009 budget.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 4, 2009
Historic agency says port ‘complicit’ in developer’s plan for Collins
EVERETT - A statewide historic preservation organization wants to end a 4-year-old agreement governing the fate of the Collins Building, the remaining relic of Everett’s lumber mill past, and begin a new process.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 4, 2009
MONROE
Appeals court sides with resident; city facing costly penalties
MONROE- A recent state Court of Appeals ruling says City Council members’ personal or work e-mail addresses are not exempt from public disclosure requests when they’re used for city business.
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By JESSICA SPARKS
Published Nov. 4, 2009
MUKILTEO
Students help peers resolve disagreements on recess yard
MUKILTEO - At Discovery Elementary School, the game four-square rules recess.
Kids rush to play it, racing to nab one of the coveted squares first.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 4, 2009
No more state money to preserve Japanese Gulch
MUKILTEO - After securing $1 million in state money for the purchase of Japanese Gulch land, state Sen. Paull Shin, D-Edmonds, says he’ll continue to work toward protecting as much of the gulch as possible against future development.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 4, 2009
SNOHOMISH
Food banks feeding more, hope donations keep up
SNOHOMISH - As the holiday season approaches, food banks are hoping an increase in donations will allow them to maintain operations next year.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 4, 2009
Cities want more control over animal services
SNOHOMISH - Lost pets from Monroe are now closer to home for pick up, and Snohomish will soon offer the same option.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 4, 2009
Advocate, day care owner Colleen Hill dies
SNOHOMISH - Former Chamber of Commerce president Colleen Hill died suddenly last week. She was 41.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 4, 2009
HDS must OK First Street cameras
SNOHOMISH - A selection of approximately 30 people saw the surveillance cameras the Snohomish Police Department hopes to install on First Street during a presentation last week.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 4, 2009
GUEST COMMENTARY
VA must modernize to assist today’s veterans
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today we gather to celebrate and honor the great courage and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans. It is because of their sacrifice that we can safely enjoy the freedoms our great country offers. It is because of their unmatched commitment that America can remain a beacon for democracy and freedom throughout the world.
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By SEN. PATTY MURRAY
Published Nov. 11, 2009
EVERETT
Award goes to woman who helps victims of violent crimes
EVERETT - For 15 years, Jenny Wieland Ward has worked on behalf of Everett residents whose loved ones are killed or hurt by violent crime.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 11, 2009
Incumbents head back to work
EVERETT - Voters decided to keep their incumbents, reject capping government revenue and approve rights for gay and senior couples during last week’s elections.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 11, 2009
Swine flu clinics canceled
EVERETT - All swine flu mass vaccination clinics planned for November have been canceled due to a supply shortage.
Instead, Snohomish County residents can get their vaccine from medical providers. No retail pharmacies and not all providers will offer the vaccine, though.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 11, 2009
Food recycling now available to residents
EVERETT - Residents can now turn their chicken bones, egg shells — even used pizza boxes — into garden-ready compost.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 11, 2009
MONROE
Zimmerman beats Walser
Role of mayor will diminish, winner said during campaign
MONROE - The election of salesman Robert Zimmerman marks a dramatic shift in the role of mayor.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 11, 2009
New faces fill council seats
MONROE - Incumbent Councilman Kurt Goering will join council-elect newcomers Tom Williams and Patsy Cudaback in January.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 11, 2009
MUKILTEO
Sacrifice sinks in for student during assembly for veterans
MUKILTEO - It was the best tribute to his 11 years of military service Air Force veteran Larry Watson could have ever had — his grandson, 30 years later, crying silently in his arms, thanking him.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 11, 2009
Mayor, council incumbents win new terms
MUKILTEO - The Mukilteo City Council will stay exactly the same after voters decided to keep all four incumbents during last week’s elections.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 11, 2009
Mayor releases bare bones budget
MUKILTEO - With sales tax and development-related revenues down by as much as 25 percent, Mukilteo released a no-frills preliminary budget last week, showing no cost-of-living raises and a proposed new fee for solid waste management.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 11, 2009
SNOHOMISH
City wants to hear from residents about future development in unofficial Pilchuck District
SNOHOMISH - At a meeting for its mixed-use study area at the senior center, the city aimed to foster dialogue on what residents want in the neighborhood. More than 40 people attended, spurred in part by the addition of a warehouse in the center of the 400 block of Lincoln Avenue.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 11, 2009
Hal Moe eliminated as site for new pool facility
SNOHOMISH- The city’s new pool facility will not be built on the Hal Moe site next to the skate park on Second Street, and the Snohomish School District will revisit whether the facility can be built at the Freshman Campus, the district told the school board last week.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 11, 2009
Profiles of People
The Dancer
SNOHOMISH - Martha LeValley, the dancer and teacher behind the bright six-foot yellow fence on Maple Avenue, engaged my brain and my heart. My conversation with her was both fascinating and frustrating.
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By PATRICIA FRANKLIN
Published Nov. 11, 2009
Vendors sought for downtown holiday market
SNOHOMISH - A holiday marketplace is opening Nov. 19 at the corner of Avenue D and First Street with a variety of vendors. The market will fill an empty space at 1234 First Street, the former Black Cat Antiques store.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 11, 2009
Planning commissioner wins only contested race
SNOHOMISH - Voters overwhelmingly put Tom Hamilton on the City Council last week over opponent Marc Crawford.
Hamilton got 1,018 votes to Crawford’s 397, according to the latest numbers at press time.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 11, 2009
No changes on school boards; Somers keeps seat on County Council
SNOHOMISH - Incumbents in the Snohomish and Monroe school board races beat their challengers.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 11, 2009
Web site tracks who’s going to bikini baristas
SNOHOMISH COUNTY- Snohomish County residents have banded together to fight the “bikini barista” stands now ubiquitous in their communities, even launching a Web site encouraging others to boycott businesses whose official vehicles frequent the stands.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 18, 2009
Everett
Ugandan dancers delight crowd
EVERETT - A Ugandan parable tells the story of a fisherman who is rowing in the water when he sees a crocodile. The crocodile tries to eat him, but at the last minute, God steps in and saves him.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 18, 2009
Council adopts 2010 budget
EVERETT - Everett officials approved the 2010 proposed budget, which shows about $112 million in revenue for the general fund, down $6.6 million from the original 2009 budget.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 18, 2009
Veterans, guests dance the day away
EVERETT - Once a year, veterans over the age of 50 get out their uniforms, grab their dates and celebrate at the USO dance at the Everett Senior Center.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 18, 2009
Budget: can’t count on revenue from big-box
MONROE - The City Council nixed an assumption in the 2010 budget that a big-box store would produce $180,000 in revenue. This means the city must now plug a $293,000 hole by year’s end.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 18, 2009
Monroe
Woman shares her experience going off grid
MONROE - Last winter, weather got so bad that the farms between Duvall and Monroe lost power for 10 days. It took Shirel Smith and her husband four days to notice.
Smith lives “off the grid,” unconnected to the public utility systems most residents depend on for power, water and heat.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 18, 2009
City rejects settlement offer after losing public records suit
MONROE - The Monroe City Council voted last week to not accept a nearly $200,000 settlement offer to end a three-year public records lawsuit the city recently lost in the state Court of Appeals.
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By JESSICA SPARKS
Published Nov. 18, 2009
Mukilteo
School district hopes voters will approve smaller levy
MUKILTEO - As the economy continues to tighten the Mukilteo School District’s budget, the school board decided last week to postpone asking voters for money to build a new elementary school and instead ask for just enough money to fix major needs.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 18, 2009
Snohomish
City asks county to expand urban growth area
SNOHOMISH - The city has applied to add 638 acres north of U.S. 2 through the county’s annual comprehensive plan amendment process.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 18, 2009
Fire districts may switch health plans amid rising costs
SNOHOMISH - With a jump in health insurance premiums next year, two local fire districts may look at switching insurance plans to cut costs.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 18, 2009
Football team visits Snohomish Chalet
By KEN HAMMOND
guest writer
The boys on Centennial Middle School’s eighth-grade football team learned an important life lesson during their last scrimmage of the season. It was at the Delta Rehabilitation Center, also known as the Snohomish Chalet.
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SNOHOMISH: THEN AND NOW
SNOHOMISH - Perhaps you are reading this column, month after month, maybe even for the past three years, with a family album of 19th century photographs still in storage. Maybe you have a nagging thought of doing something about it one of these days? If so, I hope to inspire you with the story of Richard Guttormsen’s gift of Edith Blackman’s album to the Snohomish Historical Society this past August.
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By WARNER BLAKE
special to the Tribune
Published Nov. 18, 2009
Basketball Preview
Monroe High School
Everett High School
Snohomish High School
Glacier Peak High School
Mukilteo High School
Everett
Quicker trip down SR 99 coming soon
EVERETT - The longest rapid bus transit line in the country opens in Everett next week.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 25, 2009
Mariner students start drug, alcohol recovery group
EVERETT - This time last year, 18-year-old Jessica Lander was in rehab, trying to fake her way through recovery so she could go back to her drug stash.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 25, 2009
Monroe
Council members cut but also add to close deficit
MONROE- A majority of the mayor’s recommendations to close a $300,000 budget gap were accepted by the City Council last week, but some council-added new expenditures brought the 2010 budget deficit down to $190,600.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 25, 2009
Housing Hope benefits under new rules
MONROE - Facing a lack of affordable housing options in town, the City Council voted unanimously to give developers incentives to encourage affordable housing along Main Street last week.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 25, 2009
Mukilteo
Groups get smaller grants from city
MUKILTEO - Grants supporting community projects were cut in half this year, providing $10,000 in funding instead of last year’s $20,000.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 25, 2009
Budget avoids layoffs, furloughs
MUKILTEO - A glitch in the city’s budgeting software meant the City Council received a totally new proposed budget last week, revised from the one they got at the beginning of the month, but the updated budget still feels the sting of decreased sales tax revenue.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 25, 2009
Snohomish
Glacier Peak Grizzlies go to state quarterfinals!
The Grizzlies only touchdown came in the final minutes of the game when senior quarterback Zach Richter connected with junior receiver Tanner Southard on a 10-yard pass.
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Food banks helping more residents this Thanksgiving
SNOHOMISH - Local food banks are still in need of holiday food as Thanksgiving approaches this week.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 25, 2009
Council adopts budget, passes on 1 percent increase
SNOHOMISH - The City Council gave taxpayers a break next year, deciding against raising property taxes and temporarily halting any increase in utility rates last week. The council will likely discuss raising utility rates next year, though.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 25, 2009
Rail line purchase coming?
SNOHOMISH - Buoyed by a new financial partnership, the Port of Seattle believes it can make a Dec. 15 deadline to purchase the Burlington Northern Santa Fe east side rail line.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Nov. 25, 2009
Ranks of the uninsured nearing 1 million people
In Snohomish County, 74,000 people are uninsured
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - The number of Washingtonians without health insurance is swelling to almost 1 million people, and just fixing the economy won’t stop it, according to a report Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler released last week.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Nov. 25, 2009
EVERETT
Army Corps says port met Collins agreement
EVERETT - Transforming the historic Collins Building into a place for businesses or a farmers’ market is too expensive to be realistic, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said last week.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 2, 2009
Find something crafty at holiday bazaars
EVERETT - As the holiday season begins, local art students look forward to the gift-giving time as a chance to share a new skill with friends and family — and maybe even make some extra money while they’re at it.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 2, 2009
Community proves its worth in weeds
EVERETT - The Lowell neighborhood made their agreement to keep a local park pesticide-free official last week when the City Council voted to approve a one-year pilot program.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 2, 2009
MONROE
New CEO takes over at Valley General
MONROE — Valley General Hospital’s incoming CEO Mike Liepman is ready for action.
Liepman, 56, was selected by the hospital board to replace interim CEO Phil Sandifer at its Nov. 11 meeting. Liepman starts Dec. 2.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 2, 2009
Council shuffles funds to close deficit
Monroe 2010 budget includes 1 percent property tax increase, pending utility rate increases
MONROE — The City Council plugged the remaining $127,637 hole in the budget last week in a narrow vote to earmark up to $150,000 from the public works department’s equipment reserve fund to backfill the general fund deficit.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 2, 2009
MUKILTEO
Student films 'moving,' sheriff says
MUKILTEO - When law enforcement officers came across teens in their line of work, it’s usually because they’re mixed up in gang violence, drug use or other problems that plague youth today.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 2, 2009
SNOHOMISH
Quilters share laughs, tips
SNOHOMISH - The dozen or so members of the quilting class share laughs and quilt pattern tips, but more importantly, formed lasting friendships. Many of the class members joined a decade ago and still quilt together at the center.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 2, 2009
Bickford Ford celebrates 75 years in Snohomish
SNOHOMISH — Art Bickford always taught his sons that community is key.
Art’s father, Lawrence, taught them that hard work counts.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 2, 2009
Snohomish girl raking up wins
SNOHOMISH — Graysen Stroud, 12, is building quite the reputation as a champion horse rider.
In October, Graysen and her horse Cash won two trophies at the national Quarter Horse Congress in Ohio, the largest horse convention in America.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 2, 2009
SNOHOMISH COUNTY
PUD partners with communities for energy efficiency projects
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - The Snohomish County PUD will partner on energy efficiency initiatives with seven local communities, which have received a total of $461,194 in federal stimulus funding under the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
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County Council tackles bikini baristas
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - The Snohomish County Council will take on “bikini barista” stands this week, considering two ordinances that crack down on lewd conduct and adult businesses.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 2, 2009
Food banks help hundreds have happy Thanksgiving
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - Local food banks were packed with clients last week as families came for Thanksgiving necessities.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 2, 2009
Being jobless is not good for your health
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - People who are unemployed are significantly more at risk to have poor health, according to a new report released by the Snohomish Health District.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 2, 2009
EVERETT
Tradition helps those in need
Each year, family buys gifts for community members
EVERETT - Barbara Earl’s family has holiday traditions like any other family, just with a twist. They spend the holiday season buying and putting together presents, but when Christmas Day comes, they give their gifts to people they’ve never met.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 16, 2009
Need gluten-free foods?
New store caters to special diet
EVERETT - Janell Farnsworth was in Afghanistan when she first started feeling it — the fatigue, the aches, the fuzzy thoughts. She figured her symptoms were just part of the mental and physical stress she was under while serving with the National Guard.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 16, 2009
Teen talks about her experience with weight
EVERETT - For 15-year-old Dalanie Church, staying healthy has always been a struggle.
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By TRIBUNE STAFF
Published Dec. 16, 2009
County adopts stricter rules for bikini barista stands
EVERETT - “Bikini barista” coffee stands in Snohomish County will have to obtain adult business licenses and cover up their employees, the County Council decided last week.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 16, 2009
Airport study reveals minimal impacts
Public hearings scheduled for next month
EVERETT - Bringing passenger service to Paine Field would not drastically increase noise levels, clog the roads or pollute the air, according to a study released earlier this month.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 16, 2009
Port not interested in mediation
EVERETT - Preservationist groups have asked to begin a mediation process with the Port of Everett over the issues surrounding the Collins Building, but the port commission rejected the idea last week.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 16, 2009
MONROE
Councilman challenged unethical behavior of elected officials
MONROE - Former City Councilman Marc Mechling died Dec. 6 at age 59 after a brief battle with brain cancer.
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By TRIBUNE STAFF
Published Dec. 16, 2009
Utility rates set to increase; council looks at a way to avoid increasing sewer rate
MONROE - A contingent of City Council members want to evaluate whether a revenue-producing sewage dumping plan can mean holding off on increasing sewer rates next year.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 16, 2009
MUKILTEO
Try your hand at forming city budget
MUKILTEO - Want to see how the city’s budget will affect you? Think you could have done a better job balancing the books?
See for yourself.
By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 16, 2009
Budget passes minus property tax increase
MUKILTEO - After months of number-crunching negotiations, the City Council adopted the $31 million budget for next year.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 16, 2009
SNOHOMISH
No cameras for First Street
SNOHOMISH - Surveillance cameras are not coming to First Street in the near future, Police Chief John Turner said.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 16, 2009
Cities prepare for winter
Milder weather predicted this year
SNOHOMISH- While the National Weather Service is expecting a mild winter for the region, cities are prepping for snowy roads just in case.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 16, 2009
Community collects food, toys for needy families
SNOHOMISH - There are more children in need of toys than ever before and the pressing need for food remains because of the economy.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 16, 2009
By WARNER BLAKE
special to the Tribune
Published Dec. 16, 2009
Snohomish’s own pioneer photographer, Gilbert Horton, captured this month’s historic image of Avenue B around 1885. By then, all three Blackman families had made their homes in this part of town, but only one has survived, and it is now the Blackman House Museum at 118 Ave. B.
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EVERETT
Charity helps parents find gifts
EVERETT - Christmas can be an expensive holiday. To prepare for this week, many Snohomish County residents have been scrambling for months to find their Christmas hams, trees, lights, and, of course, presents.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 23, 2009
Health district: warm your home safely
Lynnwood residents treated for carbon monoxide poisoning
EVERETT - After nine Lynnwood residents, including a toddler, were hospitalized last week for carbon monoxide poisoning, health agencies are warning people about the dangers of the gas, often called the “silent killer.”
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 23, 2009
‘Thrifting’ is in her blood
EVERETT - Melody Gibson is not the kind of person you say no to, especially when it comes to opening a store in the middle of a recession.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 23, 2009
MONROE
Council decides to raise sewer rates over unproven revenue scheme
MONROE - The City Council passed the 2010 budget last week, opting to raise sewer rates instead of banking on an experimental sewage dumping service revenue plan.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 23, 2009
Thrice rejected land use proposal moves forward
MONROE - A property rezone request that was rejected twice by the planning commission and once by the City Council last year was allowed to move forward by the council this time around.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 23, 2009
Family wants others to avoid tragedy
MONROE - A Monroe resident has died from burns he suffered earlier this month when his clothes caught fire after rubbing up against a propane cylinder with a heater that did not have its protective cage attached to it.
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By TRIBUNE STAFF
Published Dec. 23, 2009
Girl buys toys for food bank drive
MONROE - Abbey Aney, 6, can’t stop giving.
Her goal this year was to make sure all low-income children in Monroe got toys for the holidays.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 23, 2009
MUKILTEO
New group gets residents involved in waterfront issues
MUKILTEO - Many of Mukilteo’s major challenges start at the waterfront: parking and traffic congestion, tourism and business development and the confusion that stems from local, regional and national bureaucracies having a stake in the area.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 23, 2009
Teacher known for Hawaiian shirts, big heart
MUKILTEO - It was more like a stand-up comedy show than a memorial service, but Columbia Elementary School students, teachers and parents say that’s just what Kirk Kaas would have wanted.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 23, 2009
Mayor’s salary more than doubles
MUKILTEO - The longstanding question over whether the position of mayor should be part time or full time was answered last week when the City Council voted to approve a 136 percent increase to the position’s annual salary.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 23, 2009
SNOHOMISH
Sewer rate increase delayed
SNOHOMISH - The City Council earlier this month chose to delay a sewer rate increase for 2010.
The vote was 4-2.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 23, 2009
Council allows chemical use on blackberries
SNOHOMISH - The City Council voted to allow the use of the herbicide Roundup to clear blackberry bushes along the Riverfront Trail last week, but some are worried this policy change will leave no safeguards in place to prevent citywide use of this possibly toxic chemical.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 23, 2009
EVERETT
Couple brings a little country living to neighborhood
EVERETT - Call her “The Chicken Lady.”
Her friends already do, says Toni Petersen, a Riverside neighborhood resident. She and her husband, Ritch Carbaugh, are proud parents of four hens, which they keep in their backyard.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 30, 2009
Additional time to review airport study
EVERETT - Are you one of the residents who are concerned about commercial passenger service at Paine Field but won’t have the time in the next two weeks to get through the 86-page report explaining how it would affect you?
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 30, 2009
Red-light cameras may not get the green light
EVERETT - Snohomish County could install traffic safety cameras to catch drivers who speed and run red lights by as early as fall 2010, if County Executive Aaron Reardon had his way.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 30, 2009
Teen girls account for high STD rates
EVERETT - Two separate, national studies have come to the same conclusion: Sexually transmitted diseases are on the rise and are disproportionately affecting young women.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 30, 2009
MONROE
Everett Community College looking for campus in Monroe
MONROE - Everett Community College is looking for a spot in Monroe to open an East County Campus.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 30, 2009
School board approves ballot measures
Money will pay for schools, buses, technology
MONROE - The School District plans to run two levies and a $47.4 million bond on a special April 27 ballot to fund school renovations, new buses and new classroom technologies.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 30, 2009
MUKILTEO
Don’t be a holiday victim
MUKILTEO - Christmas may be over, but now comes the post-holiday shopping sprees. As stores lower their prices to get rid of leftover stock and shoppers use their new gift cards to find what they really wanted for Christmas, crime prevention officer Cheol Kang gives some tips for protecting yourself after the holidays.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 30, 2009
Couple makes sure everyone has something to eat
MUKILTEO - As the Mukilteo Food Bank is serving more families than ever before, community groups are stepping up to meet increased need with increased donations.
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By LINDSAY TOLER
Published Dec. 30, 2009
SNOHOMISH
Port buys rail line, city prepares for train service
SNOHOMISH - After a decade, a train may be returning to town by next summer.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 30, 2009
Highway coalitions band together to lobby state leaders
SNOHOMISH - Leaders involved in transportation issues countywide plan to build a unified voice to tug on the ears of state legislators next year, but they believe their realistic opportunity for highway funding will come in 2011.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 30, 2009
Bodybuilder lifting her way to professional status
SNOHOMISH - What was an impromptu contest entry earlier this year turned into a passion for up-and-coming bodybuilder Michelle Maxwell.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 30, 2009
Project seeks to capture World War II experiences
SNOHOMISH -Journalist Christina Moore listens and cousin-in-law Janell Wood shoots photos of World War II veterans as they tell their life stories.
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By MICHAEL WHITNEY
Published Dec. 30, 2009