April 27 Mukilteo Beacon

American Rescue Plan Act funds

Council seeks ways to spend the money

Capital projects could see a good chunk of federal cash

by

There appears to b e strong support in the City Council for using a significant portion of the City’s remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for capital projects.

During Monday’s Finance Committee meeting, the council received an update on the status of nearly $6 million the City is receiving from the federal government.

The City previously approved ARPA funding for a number of programs, including an embedded social worker, police body cameras and IT support, upgrades to the council chambers and audio/video equipment, lodging tax funding/replacement, and utility assistance. Those expenditures total about $1.76 million.

The council expressed support in the meeting for a finance software replacement, a resource/COVID navigator (0.5 FTE), business and nonprofit grants, a community outreach program, and additional funds for City IT infrastructure. The numbers discussed for these programs are subject to change and in some instances were just placeholders.

The City will have a projected $3.1 million remaining in ARPA funding after the previously budgeted items and the programs that received support in Monday’s meeting.

Capital projects generated strong support

Bringing the community together

by DAVID PAN reporter @ yourbeacon net

If you’ve noticed how nice the beach at Lighthouse Park looks these days, go ahead and thank the Mukilteo Youth Advisory Committee.

Members of the City-sponsored group organized a beach cleanup on Saturday, a day after Earth Day.

“It was perfect timing for us,” Vice-Chair Chloe Lee said.

The Mukilteo Youth Advisory Committee (MYAC) is a group of high school students, who live in Mukilteo. MYAC has spearheaded several different projects, including social justice and mental health initiatives.

“But this year we really wanted to focus

on bringing the community back together after the pandemic,” Lee said. ”This was one of our big projects.”

MYAC members handed out garbage bags and gloves to participants, and also helped clean up the beach by picking up trash and waste. Members talked with children and their parents about MYAC and its different projects. Waste Management also had a booth where children could spin a wheel and win a prize if they answered a question correctly.

The social justice committee, with the assistance of Councilmember Louis Harris, held a social justice seminar last year.

Members also worked on a Native

Major changes coming to Community Transit

The Community Transit of 2 022 is going to look far different than the Community Transit of 2024.

The arrival of Sound Transit’s light rail system in Snohomish County in 2024 means Community Transit no longer will be running buses to Northgate or downtown Seattle. Instead, passengers will

have a faster connection on light rail, which also will have the capacity to transport more people. Community Transit CEO Ric Ilgenfritz noted that 30% of the transit agency’s services had been going into Seattle.

“There aren’t many transit agencies around the country where a major regional investment is going to come in place and take over a significant

Above, Mukilteo Youth Advisory Committee Vice-Chair Chloe Lee talks with a group of children during Saturday’s beach cleanup event at Lighthouse Park. Below, Jacoby Johnson, 5, searches for trash between the logs on the beach.

DAVID PAN reporter @ yourbeacon net

Beacon photos by David Pan see ARPA

of

April 18

Cooking thief

600 blk. Front St. A caller said her unlocked vehicle was prowled, and her purse and an electric frying pan were stolen. The thief attempted to use the caller’s credit card at a fast-food restaurant, but the charge was declined.

Car prowl

600 blk. Front St. A resident reported the theft of his wallet, subwoofer, parking garage keyfob, laptop, and an antique pistol from his vehicle.

Fraud

8200 blk. 53rd Ave. W. A resident was contacted by a scammer, who was able to remove $40,000 from the resident’s savings account.

Car prowl

13100 blk. Beverly Park Rd. A caller said two bicycles were stolen from his vehicle.

Burglary

600 blk. Front St. A caller said several storage cabinets inside of a parking garage had been broken into overnight.

Fraud

10900 blk. 53rd Ave. W. A resident was using her computer when she received a pop-up notification that locked up her computer. The resident called the number on the notification and spent the next four hours on the phone, while the person gained access to the computer. The woman’s husband became suspicious and went to their bank, which notified him of the scam. The husband closed all their accounts and the couple is not out of any funds.

Vehicle recovery

3900 blk. Pacific Pl. A van reported stolen out of King County was located.

April 17

Disturbance

9600 Harbour Pl. Officers were called to a verbal argument that occurred between several people inside and outside of a room. Officers discovered 15 to 20 people inside of a room with many people appearing to be intoxicated.

Substance abuse

11700 blk. Mukilteo Speedway. A caller reported seeing two men using drugs in their car. The caller saw them using glass straws and lighting pipes in the vehicle. Police did not locate the suspects.

Assault

4600 blk. Pointes Dr. A caller reported being assaulted.

Shoplifting

10200 blk. Mukilteo Speedway. An employee said two men stole several bottles of alcohol.

Lost dog, found dog

5100 blk. 126th St. SW. An officer located a lost dog and returned it to the owner.

Don’t tow them

5700 blk. 128th St. SW. A caller said there were several vehicles parked at the location. The caller hoped the cars would not be towed because the drivers were visiting an ailing person.

April 16

Vehicle prowls

10600 blk. 47th Pl. W. Two cars were prowled in a parking lot. One purse was stolen and $1.900 was charged on credit cards in Bothell.

Hotel room damage

3800 blk. Harbour Pointe Blvd. SW. An employee reported a guest did $8,000 damage to a room. The employee was advised it was a civil matter.

Found finger

12600 blk. 52nd Pl. W. A caller reported finding a finger laying on the sidewalk. Officers said it was a latex Halloween-type prop finger.

Theft

11700 blk. Mukilteo Speedway. An employee of a restaurant propped open a door to take the trash out, and video showed a man slipped in and stole a tablet.

Let’s order dinner

8200 blk. 44th Ave. W. A couple pulled into a business park to look at an online menu so they could order dinner.

Theft

4200 blk. 78th St. SW. A driver’s side front window of a security vehicle was smashed, and the flashing orange security light affixed to the top of the car also had been stolen.

Theft

11700 blk. Mukilteo Speedway. An employee said a man stole items from a store and left on foot. Police located the suspect, but the manager did not want to pursue theft charges. The suspect was trespassed from the store, and two bottles of soda were returned.

April 15

Suspect balloon

11700 blk. Mukilteo Speedway. Officers responded to an alarm and discovered a Mylar balloon likely was pushed into sensor range by the heating system.

Assault

400 blk. Main St. in Edmonds. While assisting Edmonds Police with a domestic violence case involving two brothers

Cops, kids, and cars

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at a restaurant, a Mukilteo Police officer was suddenly and without warning attacked by the victim. The officer did not sustain any injuries, but some of his gear was damaged. The suspect was arrested.

Young driver

78th St. SW./44th Ave. W. A vehicle was found in a ditch. A tow truck pulled the vehicle out of the ditch. The driver had an intermediate license and was not supposed to be driving between 1 and 5 a.m. Her parents came and drove the vehicle away from the scene.

Threats

7100 blk. Front St. Employees at a hotel said a man came inside the lobby and was making vague threats to the staff. Officers searched but did not locate the suspect.

Wrong button

11600 blk. 49th Pl. W. The caller was setting his emergency button on his phone and it dialed 911.

April 14

Suspicious

8900 blk. 46th Pl. W. A caller reported seeing an unfamiliar

Beacon photos by David

Top, The Mukilteo Police Department invited several youths to join them for an evening of fun during the first annual Race the Cops event at Traxx Racing on April 20. After enjoying pizza, officers and their guests headed out to

vehicle in the neighborhood. Police contacted the occupant, who said he was visiting his wife.

Assault

4300 blk. Chennault Beach Rd. Two intoxicated customers were threatening to fight employees. Police contacted the involved people, and they were cited for assault in the fourth degree and trespassed from the location.

Vehicle recovery

10500 47th Pl. W. A stolen vehicle out of Mukilteo was recovered in Everett.

False report

9900 12th Ave. W. A victim’s account of being robbed of a cellphone and pushed out of a vehicle was found to be made up based on video of the incident. The alleged victim recanted their story and said they made it up.

April 13

Parking

11900 blk. 59th Ave. W. A caller said vehicles were blocking mailboxes and fire hydrants. An officer warned several people, who were attending a memorial service.

Pan

the track for some go-kart racing. Above, Mukilteo Police officer Andy Jones seems to know his way around the track. Left, drivers line up for the start of the race.

CT breaks ground on new Swift Orange Line

Most recent bus rapid transit line will expand access to destinations around the county

Community Transit staff and board members, federal and elected officials, and community partners celebrated the kickoff of the construction of Swift Orange Line at Lynnwood Transit Center on April 19.

When it’s finished in 2024, the 11-mile bus rapid transit (BRT) route will serve people who are traveling in southwest Snohomish County. Swift Orange Line will also be the first BRT (bus rapid transit) line in Snohomish County to connect with Sound Transit’s Link light rail when the station opens in Lynnwood, greatly expanding access to many new destinations around the Puget Sound region.

Officials making remarks at the event included:

• Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Ad-

see BREAK GROUND page 16 u

u from COMMUNITY TRANSIT page 1

part of the load that we’ve been carrying for the last four decades,” he said.

These changes mean Community Transit has what Ilgenfritz describes as a generational opportunity to restructure its network in Snohomish County. During the April 18 Mukilteo City Council meeting, Ilgenfritz and Roland Behee, director of planning and development, gave a preview of some of

the upcoming changes and provided details on the agency’s plans to further engage with the community on the future of transit in Snohomish County.

The council previously asked Mayor Joe Marine, chair of the Community Transit board of directors, to schedule an update with Community Transit officials.

“It would be tough to overstate the transformation that is going to happen with public transit when we connect to light rail,”

Behee said.

He noted that everyone on the council probably has traveled to Seattle for meetings and other engagements. The travel time to Seattle, Behee said, might be best characterized as variable.

“We can’t really predict what that trip is going to look like from one day to another,” he added.

Some days the trip might take 60 minutes, while on other days it could be half

that time. Light rail will have a train running every four minutes during peak hours, and the trip will take 28 minutes to downtown Seattle.

“So the real game-changer light rail brings to that is that it is the same each and every time,” Behee said. “Naturally, I think everybody would agree that is remarkably different from your experience on any given day

see MAJOR CHANGES page 15 u

The new Swift Orange Line route

Map courtesy of Commnity Transit

MUKILTEO SCHOOLS Safety: Our students’ success depends on it

Ayear ago, I shared the following at the outset of my monthly school board message focused on School Resource Officers (SROs): “To ensure a welcoming and safe learning and work environment is foundational and at the heart of the Mukilteo School District’s goals. The school board is committed to this very important goal and will lean on our roles as elected leaders to ensure accountability for its accomplishment.”

MUKILTEO SCHOOLS

by MICHAEL SIMMONS mukilteo public schools, president

That statement and commitment is still very true today. The primary responsibility for maintaining a positive and supportive school climate resides with school leadership, including maintaining order and all student discipline matters. Our ongoing effort to engage, maintain an open dialogue, and share productive information with students, parents and community members has only been enhanced.

One way we’ve broadened our safety communication is through a safety presentation series for families. The first session, which started just before the pandemic, was about gun safety. The safety series paused during the most challenging parts of the pandemic but has since returned!

In January of this year, staff shared about school safety and school and district responses to threats, harassment, intimidation, and bullying via Zoom, which was well-attended, recorded and shared with families after the event for post-viewing. It is available on the Mukilteo School District YouTube channel (https://youtu.be/9NYHUPuEBYk).

As part of that ongoing family safety series, this Monday, the district offered a webinar about social media and online safety. Robert Hackenson, Jr. from Dynamic Influence shared strategies for keeping students safe while interacting online including topics such as screentime and social media’s effects on mental health, online bullying and negative interactions, sexting, and other potential dangers of interacting online. He also offered strategies and resources for helping keep online and social media interactions as healthy parts of growing up and social-

see SIMMONS page 9 u

OFF KILTER

The pickleball phenomenon

I’m certain many of you are waiting with bate d breath (as an aside, I’ve never in all my years met anyone who had bated breath – or even bad breath!) to get some understanding about the pickleball phenomenon. Likewise, the Blockchain phenomenon, which underpins the cryptocurrency movement.

Let’s start with pickleball. Some guys on Bainbridge Island who were long-time tennis and golf players began to feel the slings and arrows of creeping age. In fact, the game was invented by them for their children.

If you’ve never seen the game played – just go to YouTube and type in pickleball – you’ll see many examples of the game. I myself have given up tennis for pickleball. The game is played on a court approximately half the size of a tennis court – so it is much easier on the back and knees, especially great for us older players.

Where we find hope

“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.”

–Bishop D. Tutu

BY MICHAEL GOLD self-described “gadfly” & east coast transplant, serial entrepreneur offering east/west coast perspectives

The other thing one notices is that you see a great many more women playing the game than one typically sees at the local tennis club. There are a few rules in pickleball that are different than just about any other sport – especially one that has a high percentage of men players. First among them is “no swearing.” You almost never hear a four-letter swear when someone misses a shot. You will hear “nuts” or “darn” or “my bad.” That’s about the worst of it.

Also, you see a great many more “self-calls” about misses (say a ball that is “long” or “wide”) where the doubles team that missed the shot will call the “miss” by themselves. A great more “honesty” than you will ever hear or see on the golf course or just about any contact sport. Another famous saying in pickleball is “there are no sorrys in pickleball.” You never apologize to your partner for a bad shot. Just play on. So civilized!

This got me thinking about another “game” we played on the streets of New York – where I grew up. That is the game called: “Johnny rides a pony” (also sometimes called “buck buck”). This is a game where two teams of youngish boys take turns lining up against a fence or wall. The “anchor” leans against the wall and the rest of the team lines up in a straight line – bending over – so each boy grabs onto the back/waist of the next one.

The other team takes a running start and puts his hands on the back of the first boy at the back of the line – and jumps as far towards the anchor as possible. The boy in the air attempts to land with his knees in the back of whoever he lands on – in an attempt to cause that boy

Hope (n)

1a: desire accompanied by expectation of or belief in fulfillment

also: expectation of fulfillment or success

1b: someone or something on which expectations are centered

1c: something desired

I t is spring. It is the time of new possibilities, the time of promise, the time to put in hard work with the hope that it will manifest as expected. Spring is a time of hope …

MOMENT’S NOTICE

Psychologists say that hope is one of the most difficult human tendencies to explain and, in many cases, to preserve. Hope requires complex cognitive operations that incorporate, rather than dismiss, emotions, while still requiring a leap of faith to follow through.

As the days get longer and the sun breaks through the clouds, if feels like we are seeing signs of wonderful things to come every day – the hazy rainbow of a sun dog in a bright afternoon sky, the pink and white buds on the trees (even though they make me sneeze), and even the bunnies bounding around the yard, munching on the dandelions that I will never get around to pulling.

The tides calm a little this time of year, as well, and we can walk on a chilly but sunny beach, watching our dog frolic in pure bliss.

Even breakfast – that big Easter brunch-y breakfast with something sweet and savory on the plate is like a revelation, but I am also just as happy with a bowl of oatmeal or cereal or even a piece of toast with coffee. Any breakfast is a good thing.

On my run yesterday, a favorite song came on that I have not heard in a while, and one lyric particularly resonated. I hit the back arrow to hear it again (even I have to admit that modern music technology did at least improve on the old rewind button).

u

BY MARIA MONTALVO mmomentsnotice@gmail com

Feelings of hope are often challenged, but they strongly influence our actions. Hope is most important when we make the decision to move toward a future that even our best efforts cannot guarantee. For me, hope is preserved through a moment’s notice, seeing the small joys of the day or noting a passing smile.

Ask our federal representatives to continue to support Ukraine

As we watch the people of Ukraine fight for their freedom, our commitment to human rights and democracy must be unwavering.

Appeasing Putin after his invasion and occupation of Crimea by allowing Russia to continue as a legitimate player on the world stage has led us to an interconnected world unable to fully confront actions from Putin that are more in line with his KGB upbringing. This was precisely the danger in not confronting the undemocratic and illegal tendencies of a world power.

Now we see a war being waged with the same ideology, rhetoric, land grabs, and war crimes as in WWII and we can know one thing for sure: Putin will not stop; he must be stopped. He is already

But then I watch the news or hear a piece about war or cruelty or how we are treating each other even here at home, in a country we tout to be the pinnacle of progress and opportunity. Those delicate moments of joy can be darkened so quickly.

My hope then comes from the belief that we will not ignore the violence, and that we will stand up to protect democracy here. Think about it. Even in the

see MONTALVO page 5 u

calling out Finland and Sweden.

The U.S. has been strong in its support for Ukraine, and a leader in an energy embargo and port ban. But this help could be stronger and faster, and federal funding to support Ukraine has been exhausted. We can all stand with Ukraine now by calling our representatives and asking them to fully fund the protection of freedom, human rights, and democracy worldwide by arming Ukraine and stopping Putin.

Please call our representatives and ask them to support funding to arm Ukraine, direct sanctions on war criminals, and full removal of Russian banks from the SWIFT system.

Senator Cantwell 425-303-0114

Senator Murray 425-259-7152

Congressman Larsen 425-252-3188

Kristina Melnichenko Mukilteo

Saddle up and go for an equestrian scholarship

My findings support Washington has a horse population around 250,000, making it home to the third most horses in the western half of the United States and the 11th most in the entire country.

A good portion of that one-quarter of a million horses are boarded right here in Snohomish County.

GUEST VIEW

The environment and equity: Children, poor will suffer more

Who will face the biggest continuing impact of environmental decline? We are all affected, but it is clear that children and the poor bear the brunt of dramatic ecological change.

According to the United Nations Children’s Fund, “Children are the least responsible for climate change, yet they will bear the greatest burden of its impact.”

As environmental crises intensify over the next century, our kids and grandkids will be left to suffer the effects of our current behavior.

This is like having to pay off the debts of a gambling-addicted relative – all the pain and none of the pleasure. There is a fundamental unfairness here. The young and unborn have no say, no vote, and no way to fix past mistakes.

of infectious diseases, and the health consequences of air pollution (including wildfire smoke) are discussed.

Their studies emphasize that those without consistent health care resources and the ability to avoid potential harm will be most vulnerable to these outcomes.

Another major fallout for the poor is food insecurity. Food production, quality, distribution, and prices are parts of this uncertainty.

One indirect example of higher food prices is the resulting bias toward cheap, nutrient-poor, but calorie-rich foods. This feeds the obesity epidemic. Housing is another area where the environment is creating burdens for the poor. Construction material costs are rising. Significantly for us in Washington, wildfires decrease lumber supply and increase prices.

Also, home insurers charge more as they protect themselves from climate risks.

Many of our Snohomish County female residents are horse lovers, and they use their horses for self-therapy, pleasure trail riding, friendship building, and for completive riding. Western, English, Dressage, horse jumping, rodeos, and other riding clubs can be found, not only at our Evergreen State Fairgrounds, but throughout our county.

“Horsewomen-ship” is a sport of love, but unlike football, soccer, basketball, and wrestling, this sport is too often ignored by our media. Colleges and universities are known for helping upcoming football, basketball, golf, and baseball stars by handing out scholarships. But where can a person get a Division I, 2, or 3 scholarship so she and her horse, can become equestrian champions?

The National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) is the governing body for equestrian sports, so NCEA came together with National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) to make sure the emerging equestrian athletes do receive the same benefits as other varsity competitors’ sports such as soccer, baseball, and basketball.

Currently, more than 800 female students participate in NCAA/ NCEA equestrian college disciplines, which include: Equitation Over Fences, Hunt Seat (forward seat riding,) Equitation on the Flat (ground), English and Western Horsewoman-ship, and rodeo events.

In the Wild West style of Western competition, the participants show their skills at barrel racing, flag barrel racing, jumping, bareback riding, bronco riding, chuckwagon racing, and other old ranch-hand horse style events.

On the other side of the scale, one can display their equestrian skills through the English, and in my view more dainty, style of riding.

In 1949, the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) was established in order to provide a format for intercollegiate rodeo. Today, over 3,500 student members participate in the NIRA.

Listed below are just a few of the 83 United States colleges or universities, which have either Division I (19 schools), Division II (4 schools), Division III (16), that young and up-coming equestrian Olympians might wish to explore.

• Alfre d University (New York)

• Auburn

• Berry College, (Georgia)

• Cazenovia College (New York)

• Centenary University (New Jersey)

• Colorado State University (Colorado)

• Emory & Henry College (Virginia)

• Fresno State

• Murray State University (Kentucky)

• Penn State University (Pennsylvania)

• Sacre d Heart (Connecticut)

• Seton Hill

• South Dakota State

• Stonehill College, (Massachusetts)

• Sweet Briar, (Virginia)

• Texas A&M

• U C Davis

• University of Findlay (Ohio)

• University of Kentucky

• Sweet Briar (Hunt seat only)

•Lynchburg (Hunt seat only)

To give the equestrian athletes an idea about the academics that a university or college has to offer, I will highlight just six of the above institutions.

The University of Kentucky is located in the heartland of horse country. It has both graduate and undergraduate programs, including a bachelor of science degree in Equine Science and Management.

Cazenovia College (New York) offers a degree in equine business management designed for students interested in the management, commercial, and organizational aspects of the equine industry, as well as those interested in breeding, and stable management.

Colorado State University (CSU) offers a bachelor of science in Equine Science and several animal sciences graduate programs. CSU’s off-campus features two indoor arenas, conference rooms and classrooms, acres of pastures and trails, and an equine reproduction laboratory. Colorado State University encourages participating in competition in polo, ranch horse versatility, rodeo, and English riding.

Alfred University’s (New York) equestrian studies program offers three minors: equine studies, equine-assisted psychotherapy, and equine business management.

The poor are another group that will also be disproportionately impacted, although the young and poor are not really separate blocs. Those under 16 are twice as likely to be poor as retirees.

The poor, whether young or old, are less able to avoid environmental hazards, to buy increasingly expensive food, drill deeper wells, have first-class health care, buy air conditioners, pay for flood insurance, escape eroding shorelines, move away from pollution sources, etc.

They bear the consequences of rapid environmental change in multiple ways. The increasing temperatures, intensifying storm events, and changing weather patterns caused by the climate crisis are the most significant but not the only repercussions.

The Centers for Disease Control website has lengthy descriptions on various climate effects on health. Direct injury and death due to extreme weather, increases in respiratory and cardiovascular disease, changes in the prevalence and distribution

u from GOLD page 4

to collapse. If he doesn’t, the next boy takes his run and jump while the previous jumper has to hang on and not let his feet touch the ground.

If all the players land on the backs of the “pony” and that group does not collapse (with no one’s feet touching the ground), the lined-up team wins. If the bent-over boys collapse, the running team wins. Who invented this stupid highly dangerous game? Clearly, the street morons in New York City. Lots of skinned knees if you “missed” the bent-over line

u from MONTALVO page 4

minutes before Russia invade d Ukraine, citizens across that country expressed disb elief that war would come to their country or that they could see their free dom taken away Ukrainians believe d they would continue to experience those moments of happiness that we can so easily take for grante d.

So this spring, in the shadow of thre e of the world’s holiest of holidays celebrated re cently, the world is still at war – literally and figuratively We all have to remain commit-

The pressure on housing and land intensifies as people are displaced from shoreline communities, floodplains, cyclone alleys, fire-prone rural areas, and hurricane zones.

In 2012, Superstorm Sandy left New York without power. The Goldman Sachs headquarters, however, had private generators. Photos of the New York skyline at the time show one gleaming, bright building amid the darkness.

It was also protected by thousands of its own sandbags. This iconic example of the difference between the rich and poor will be played out in more extreme ways in the next decades.

In the fall of 2020, the Shoreline Climate Champion Series included a session titled the Climate Equity Nexus. This is a good place to learn more, and can be viewed at bit.ly/3vd4vfk.

Environmental ethics are key elements of social justice.

A more equitable future is one where sustainability goals are well defined and are taken seriously.

and landed on the pavement (not uncommon – as are serious back injuries). I guess the game is supposed to show how tough everyone is.

Lastly, the cryptocurrency movement. Blockchain is the technology that underpins all cryptocurrencies. This is a very complex highly computer-intensive system, which tracks who the rightful owner of the currency is. Likewise creating the currencies. The idea is since this is money not backed by any government, it has to be tamperproof (which it is).

And it is so computer-intensive that many of the “mining com-

ted – to peace, to a safe environment, to not destroying the possibility of a comfortable existence for the next generation.

panies” who create the currency locate their server farms where electricity is cheap. To actually “mine” new currency, you have to solve a complex equation before any other team does it. If you win and solve the equation before another team does it (and it can take weeks), then you get to create the new currency. Frankly, cryptocurrencies make as little sense to me as Johnny rides a pony. All I’ll say is “buyer beware.” It is a very quick way to lose a great deal of money. Frankly, you’re better off playing craps or roulette in Las Vegas (and remember, the house ALWAYS wins).

Hope is what we must protect and preserve, through the hard work it takes to bring about the possibility of good.

Photo courtesy of Chuck Wright

CDC: “Children are the least responsible for climate change, yet they will bear the greatest burden of its impact”

VIEW BY GREG FERGUSON snohomish county resident

Clarinetists join Cascade Symphony in season finale concert

Two clarinetists from the Seattle Symphony, Benjamin Lulich and Emil Khudyev, will perform with the Cascade Symphony Orchestra for its season finale concert.

The concert – under the direction of maestro Michael Miropolsky – will wrap up the orchestra’s 60th season. The program will be at 7:30 p.m. Monday, May 2, at the Edmonds Center for the Arts (ECA), 410 4th Ave. N.

A pre-concert lecture at 6:30 p.m., by KING-FM radio personality Dave Beck, will preview the musical highlights for the evening.

“We are fortunate to have the rare opportunity of hearing a duo of extraordinary clarinetists perform the Clarinet Double Concerto of Czech composer František Kramár-Krommer,” Miropolsky said of Lulich and Khudyev. “Kramár-Krommer was a contemporary of (Austrian composer Wolfgang Amadeus) Mozart and (German composer Ludwig van) Beethoven, and he is best known today for his music for winds.”

Lulich is the principal clarinet in the Seattle Opera, having previously served as acting principal clarinet with the Cleveland Orchestra while holding other prominent positions with the Pacific Symphony, Kansas City Symphony, Colorado Music Festival, and Sunriver Music Festival. He also has performed with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Opera, Philadelphia Orchestra, IRIS Orchestra, Festival Mozaic, Chamber Music Northwest, and many other ensembles.

He also has played frequently with the Hollywood Studio Orchestra, recording numerous film scores, record albums, and

Edmonds

Emil Khudyev video games.

Khudyev has performed with numerous music organizations, including the Chicago Symphony and the Cleveland Orchestra. He became an instructor of clarinet at

see SEASON FINALE page 12 u

Take an artful stroll in Tigard, Oregon

Oregon’s Tualatin Valley is home to award-winning wineries and craft breweries, scenic wildlife preserves and parks, an array of outdoor recreation activities, world-class golf courses, and plenty of dining options.

Not to mention tax-free shopping.

The valley, which is located southwest of Portland, is also a mecca for artists, whose works can be seen throughout the area along a series of self-guided art walks.

images of local threatened species that reside in a nearby creek.

One of my favorite pieces was “The Interactivators,” an interactive sculptural table created by Frank Boyden and Brad Rude. It is comprised of moveable bronze heads that express a range of human emotions and traits. Set on the platform of a train station, they serve as a metaphor for the human experience.

BY DEBBIE STONE travelstone@comcast net travel writer

On an overcast morning, I set out to do a tour of the City of Tigard’s growing public art collection. The 1.25-mile walk through downtown takes you by murals, bronzes, stencils on pavement, blown glass and steel pieces, mosaics, and more. It’s a potpourri of creativity that dresses up the area, especially on a grey day.

I was in treasure hunt mode, as I used the interactive map to look up, down and all around, while searching for each of the 17 works on display.

The walk starts at the Jim Griffith Memorial Skatepark, where you’ll find “Dinosaur Sculpture,” which is actually a skateable piece of concrete within the 15,000 square-foot facility. Several teens were giving it a workout when I was there.

A series of sidewalk stamps is next up on the route. Designed by schoolkids and created by volunteers, the stencils depict

Across the way is “Rivers,” a panoramic mural showing people caring for the natural bounty within the Tualatin watershed. Further down is another mural at the Tigardville Station, which represents the beauty of the region.

Scattered throughout town, you’ll find a series of decorative hanging glass baskets made by local entrepreneur Live, Laugh, Love, Art. Also, a personal favorite.

Jesse Swickard’s “Butterfly Statue,” was commissioned by Tigard Chiropractic, where it sits prominently in front of the business. As you might expect, it’s all about the joy that comes through movement.

Two largescale, vivid murals, situated across one another under an overpass, are part of the Tigard Outdoor Museum project. The first, by Joshua Lawyer, showcases the Kalapuyan people, the valley’s earliest inhabitants, and their animal spiritual guides. The second, which was created by MJ Lindo-Lawyer, is a reference to historic cultures, local wildlife and water. Painted in contrasting colors – warm and bright oranges versus cool blues – the murals’

Photo courtesy of Debbie Stone

The “Musical Bench” in Tigard, Oregon

Benjamin Lulich

Jewelry collection to support Stop AAPI Hate

A new 2022 spring collection of “Cranes for Peace” Washi Origami Cranes are available at several local art establishments in celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

The collection’s goal is to promote awareness while also supporting the end of harassment and violence against AAPI. A portion of each purchase is donated to Stop AAPI Hate. “This month-long celebration recognizes and thanks all the generations of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have enriched the history of America and helped move the country towards its future is one reason we are launching a 2022 spring collection of crane earrings,” Casion Jewelry founder and designer Fay Lim said. “By using art for peace and an array of spring colors in our origami cranes; this collection celebrates new growth and understanding in our communities.”

Washi Origami Crane earrings are available at:

• Schack Art Center, 2921 Hoyt Avenue, Everett

• Cascadia Art Museum, 190 Sunset Ave. S., Edmonds

• Bellevue Arts Museum, 510 Bellevue Way NE, Bellevue or order online: https:// shop.bellevuearts.org/collections/jewelry?sort_by=title-ascending

• Casion Jewelry – contact: casionjewelry@gmail.com

The month of May was chosen to com-

memorate AAPI when it was first proposed in 1977 to observe the immigration of the first Japanese to the United States (May 7, 1843), and the completion of the transcontinental railroad, constructed mainly by Chinese immigrant workers (May 10, 1869). This tribute, in a presidential annual proclamation, recognizes the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.

The “Cranes for Peace” fundraising cam-

TILLING TIMES

Dreaming of tomatoes

According to journalist and g ardener

Erica Grivas, Seattle is “One tough tomato town. It’s not impossible, for sure, but oh it takes guts.”

TILLING TIMES

JEANNE

Marina is the treasurer for the Mukilteo Community Garden, and she is becoming our tomato expert. She thinks of tomatoes as “my soul focus in the garden, my main source of pleasure and anguish, but also lots and lots of tomato sandwiches.”

In past years Marina grew tomatoes in her p-patch garden and later in patio pots. The results were disappointing. The tomatoes planted in the ground took up lots of real estate but yielded relatively few tomatoes. The patio pots were a little better, but she wanted more than a few pounds of tomatoes from three plants.

reading every book about tomatoes in the library. Because heirloom tomatoes are open pollinators, multiple varieties can be

grown next to each other. She ended up trying 13 varieties last summer.

Her heroes became tomato people. She read about Tom Wagner, tomato breeder from Everett, who introduced the Green Zebra variety. And Tim Stark with his memoirs of accidental tomato grower – an excellent read. She even bought her own copy of Stark’s book so she can someday stalk him at his Pennsylvania farm stand.

paign donates funds to Stop AAPI Hate Center, a coalition of the Asian Pacific Policy & Planning Council, Chinese for Affirmative Action, and the Asian American Studies Department at San Francisco State University. The organization tracks and reports incidents of hate, violence, harassment, and discrimination as well as provides translation

see JEWELRY COLLECTION page 13 u

happy fourth

Then she had the genius idea to grow as many tomatoes in the garden bed as she could fit – vertically. Vertical tomato growing means staking plants so they grow upright, leaving two or three productive branches per plant and trimming off the rest.

In 2021 Marina went into research mode, selecting heirloom tomato seeds suitable for the Pacific Northwest and

Seeds were planted the last week of March. She used a greenhouse, with heat mats under the trays and lights above. After about four weeks, the plants were large enough to pot up to four-inch containers. In mid-May, it was time to start “hardening off” the seedlings, which meant slowly acclimating them to outdoor temperatures, but bringing them back into the greenhouse during cold evenings.

see CRISP AND KELLY page 12 u

Photo courtesy of Mukilteo Community Garden

BY

CRISP AND JULIE KELLY mukilteo community garden

The 2022 Spring Washi Origami Crane earrings for the “Cranes for Peace” fundraising campaign

Photo courtesy of Casion Jewelry

April 28

Mukilteo Yacht Club meeting

6:30 p.m. The Mukilteo Yacht Club hosts its monthly meeting at the Milltown Sailing Association Clubhouse, 410 14th St., Everett. The club offers several cruises each month, plus monthly meetings, and social events. Both power boaters and sail boaters are welcome. For more information or to RSVP for the meeting, go to www.mukilteoyachtclub.com, email myc@mukilteoyachtclub.com, or call 425-553-0095.

April 30

Edmonds Winter Market

10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sponsored by the City of Edmonds. Bell Street and Fifth Avenue North, Edmonds. Free.

May 3

Mukilteo City Council

Chat with Steve Schmalz

6-7:30 p.m. Mukilteo City Council President Steve Schmalz will be having a Council Chat with the community in the Rosehill room at Rosehill Community Center, 304 Lincoln Ave. Residents are encouraged to come with their questions, concerns, and suggestions about the issues in and around Mukilteo.

May 7

Edmonds Floretum

Garden Club plant sale

9 a.m.-noon. Annual plant sale at Edmonds United Methodist Church, 828 Caspers St., Edmonds. Shrubs, veggies, bulbs, herbs, succulents, berries, perennials, annuals, and plants. Also, garden tools and a kids zone. Proceeds go to horticultural scholarships, grants, and school gardens. Info: edmondsfloretumgardenclub.org/.

May 11

Instagram worthy container gardens/Evergreen Arborteum

6 p.m. online/Zoom event. In this free Zoom talk, participants will learn about tips, tricks and ideas to design your dream container gardens from an expert container designer. Christina Salwitz is the founder and owner of “The Personal Garden Coach” where she shares her passion for helping gardeners save labor, time and money while preserving garden design excellence. Register at https://www. evergreenarboretum.com/classesandevents/instagram-worthy-container-gardens.

May 12

Regional Job Fair

May 15

Concert for Ukraine/North Creek Presbyterian Church

6 p.m. The public is invited to a benefit choir concert featuring MOSAIC at North Creek Presbyterian Church Sanctuary, 621 164th St. SE., Mill Creek. Free (donations encouraged)

May 17

Community Action Training School

May 7

Snohomish County Master Gardener Foundation plant sale

9 a.m.-3 p.m. The Snohomish County Master Gardener Foundation hosts its annual plant sale at McCollum Park, 600 128th St. SW., Everett. The sale includes tomato plants, herb and vegetable starts, perennials, hostas, shade plants, dahlias, plants for your pollinator garden, bog plants, and more. The sale will be spread throughout three parking lots. Credit cards, checks, and cash will be accepted.

Opening day of boating season

Noon. The theme for the Mukilteo Yacht Club’s 19th annual opening day of boating celebration will be “Disco: The Sensational 70s.” Opening day activities include a decorated boat parade and blessing of the fleet at noon. The boat parade is open to all local boaters. The public can see the boats and costumes by walking docks 5/6 or watching the parade from shore-side locations such as Boxcar Park. Prizes will be awarded for best costumes and best decorated boats. Boaters must pre-register for the parade by calling 425-5530095 or emailing fleetcaptain@mukilteoyachtclub.com.

May 9

Breast cancer screening

Offered by the Seattle Cancer Care Mammogram van at the Edmonds Waterfront Center, 220 Railroad Ave., Edmonds. Women 40 and over are eligible. Those without insurance can ask about a sponsored mammogram. Schedule at 206606-7800 or seattlecca.org/mammography.

4-7 p.m. Meet with more than 50 hiring businesses and interview on-site at a free  job fair. The City of Lynnwood, Lynnwood Chamber of Commerce, Edmonds College, and WorkSource have partnered to bring together the top employers in Snohomish County. Meet with prospective employers at the Lynnwood Convention Center. Free resources will be available such as resume and career search assistance. Employers from a variety of industries including aerospace, allied health, law enforcement, transportation, public utilities, hospitality, and retail will be hiring. Register to attend for free at https://bit.ly/3LaJgBx. View a full list of participating employers at LynnwoodJobs.Eventbrite.com.

May 14

The Great Mukilteo Garage Sale

7 a.m.-7 p.m. Mark your calendars! To submit your garage sale listing, go to mukilteobeacon.com/gs

May 14

Watershed Fun Fair

11 a.m.-3 p.m. This free family event has exhibits, games, crafts, and activities for kids. Learn about fish, wildlife, rain gardens, backyard habitat, and energy and water conservation. All geared towards exploring ways to keep Puget Sound healthy. Activities include crafts and games, fish feeding, native plant demonstration garden, free native plant (while supplies last). At the Willow Creek Salmon & Watershed Education Center, 95 Pine St. Call 425-771-0230 for more information. Organized by Sound Salmon Solutions.

6-8 p.m. Willow Creek Hatchery Education Center, 93 Pine St. Edmonds. The Community Action Training School course seeks to empower community members to be effective at making the change they want to see in the world. This free program provides a series of classes on important scientific issues including: watershed health, clean water, native plants, salmon habitat/population restoration, and more. Classes will run from May to September, with three intermittent, hands-on, field trips, and a final citizen scientist led project in your community. The application for this program can be found at: https://bit.ly/38Hj1V2.

May 21

Container planting with confidence/Evergreen Arboretum

11 a.m.-noon. Former arboretum president and container designer Sandy Milam will walk you through the process of creating and maintaining perfect container displays during this in-person demo at the arboretum. Bring your questions for in person advice. No reservation required. Evergreen Arboretum and Gardens is located at 145 Alverson Blvd., Everett.

Ongoing

Help restore Yost Park

9-11 a.m. Saturdays. Edmonds Stewards meet every Saturday at Yost Park from 9-11 a.m. to remove invasive plants and restore natives. Helpers meet near the tennis courts and bring their own gardening gloves. To join, just show up or sign-in at http://www.soundsalmonsolutions. org/edmonds-stewards.

EDIOTR’S NOTE: The Beacon publishes free events, as space allows, open to the public in Edmonds, Mukilteo, Mill Creek, and surrounding areas. It is recommended to call or email the event ahead of time to make sure a particular event is still happening. Submit calendar events two weeks in advance of publication date to The Beacon through mail or online at mukilteobeacon. com. Select “Submit Event.”

Key Club, Kiwanis lend a helping hand

Volunteers spruce up the Mukilteo Community Garden

by DAVID PAN reporter @ yourbeacon net

The Mukilteo Community Garden usually is a place for quiet contemplation where people can enjoy Mother Nature.

On Saturday morning, the quiet was replaced by the sounds of teenagers laughing and having fun as more than 30 Key Club members from Kamiak and Mariner high schools worked in the garden during the annual Earth Day event.

The Mukilteo Community Garden wasn’t able to host Key Club members for the last two years due to the pandemic.

So, it was a welcome sight when Kamiak and Mariner students, Kiwanis Club of Mukilteo representatives, and Mukilteo Community Garden members joined together to help prepare the garden for the upcoming season. Kiwanis Club members work in partnership with Key Clubs on different service and volunteer projects.

“The Kiwanis and the Key Club kids have always come out for Earth Day,” said Mukilteo Community Garden board president Lorie Rhynard. “We’ve done that since 2010. “

izing with friends. The webinar was presented in English and Spanish.

Another area that certainly stands out and has taken on an increased level over the past two years is the focus on health-related safety directly connected to the COVID pandemic.

From the implementation of masking guidance, distancing guidelines, and quarantining to name a few, our up-to-date due diligence

Kamiak recognizes March Students of the Month

Mariner Key Club adviser Scott Bayles said the partnership with the Kiwanis benefits both organizations.

“They help out with our events, and we help them with their events,” he said.

Other events the two have collaborated on, Bayles said, include card game fundraisers, pancake breakfasts, highway cleanups, and the Key Club district conventions.

Rhynard and the other members of the Mukilteo Community Garden appreciated the help.

“We did a lot of perimeter weeding and also the laying down of burlap and chipping it,” Rhynard said. “There are certain areas in the garden, in particular, that get kind of neglected because it’s a little damp, and weeds grow excessively. The kids did an amazing job.”

Even though the garden hasn’t had any organized group activities in the last two years, gardeners still were able to produce about 2,000 pounds of produce and vegetables for local food banks.

Rhynard said members were very independent and focused gardeners.

New for 2022 is a greenhouse donated by the husband of one of the board members.

and partnering with the Snohomish Health District remains at the nucleus of our commitment to a safe learning and work environment for students and staff.

Beyond the recent series of safety-focused training, and maintaining and implementing pandemic-related safety standards, we will continue to identify areas where we can improve or expand our efforts to ensure we remain relevant in our approach. We value our community partners such as local law enforce-

Fine Arts Student of the Week

Toko got into painting at the age of fourteen but has been drawing since before she can remember. Watercolors are her medium of choice, and she finds inspiration by following other artists on social media. “I love the process of working with watercolors and how my paintings turn out with all the unique blurs and faint colors of watercolor paints. All the layering can be a pain, but it is very satisfying to see how the colors change their tone every time I add a layer.” In her free time she plays with her boxer puppy or crochets. Upon graduation Toko plans to pursue a college degree in Engineering and Design.

425-348-5060

www.harbourpointeorthodontics.com

Harbour Pointe Orthodontics would like to recognize the outstanding students in our community. We are proud of you.

Kamiak High School has named the following as Students of the Month for March:

“We’re still in the process of doing an infrastructure build,” Rhynard added. “We’re in a second phase of rebuilding all the garden beds.”

Depending on future funding, the garden would like to put in a new perimeter fence and get electricity to the new greenhouse.

“It’s just one step at a time,” Rhynard said.

All of the garden beds are rented, and there is a waiting list. People generally start signing up in February, and the beds are assigned in March.

But just because you don’t have a bed doesn’t mean you can’t get your hands dirty in the garden.

“You don’t have to rent a bed to be a volunteer,” Rhynard said. “If you love gardening and being with good people, get on the list.”

Volunteering also is a way to get bumped up on the waiting list.

ment and mental health providers who help us better serve our youth. Families are important partners too, as they know their children best and are with them much more than the hours of a school day. The more connected we are, the better we can protect and support our community’s children.

As we move towards May and the final month and a half of school, we are cognizant of other safety items that come along with the end of each school year. Knowing

and understanding the excitement that accompanies significant accomplishments, especially at the high school level, we work to provide the appropriate education and safety supports for students.

In closing, there is no compromise in the safety of our students in Mukilteo School District. We are diligent, thorough and take every threat, internal and external, seriously. Our learning and work environments are sacred, and we will always treat them as such.

Rosie Chhann (freshman), Glodie Wabaluku (freshman), Evan Durocher (sophomore),

Finley Tallmadge (sophomore), Mufasa Mohamednour (junior), Nathan Pao (junior), Ethan Cox (senior), Elyse Warren (senior)

Rosie Chhann

Mufasa Mohamednour

Finley Tallmadge

Elyse Warren

Glodie Wabaluku

Nathan Pao

Evan Durocher

Ethan Cox

Key Club members from Kamiak and Mariner, representatives from the Kiwanis Club of Mukilteo, and Mukilteo Community Garden members worked together to clean up the Mukilteo Community Garden on Saturday morning.

Beacon photos by David Pan

Kamiak Key Club member Saraim Gebretsadik unloads a wheelbarrow full of wood chips.

14 Kamiak athletes sign letters of intent

The largest signing class in Kamiak history made it official during a National Letter of Intent recognition and signing ceremony last week.

Fourteen Knights will be continuing their athletic careers in college in sports ranging from football, baseball, soccer, swimming, cross country, and track and field. Family and friends gathered in the school’s career center to celebrate their achievements.

Eight of the graduating seniors will be staying in Washington state. Three are headed to California and three are going to Oregon, Arizona, and Nevada.

The athletes were asked by the school what it means to be a Kamiak athlete and to share some words of appreciation. Here is what they had to say:

Emma Arceo (Cross country/track, University of Arizona)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete:

I get to represent the face of Kamiak in the media as a positive influence through my accomplishments. My freshman year, The Guam Daily Post wrote a story on me as a Chamorro female standout in the States. I get to represent my school and my island. I will forever remember my experiences as a competitor, but also with all the people I met and the friends that I made.

Words of appreciation:

I want to thank my momma for being my #1 support and my rock as a woman and as an athlete. She has always been there cheering me on at every race and there with me through every struggle. I want to thank my dad for always sharing his best words of wisdom with me. He’s helped me through my anxiety before my best races and my sobbing despair after the worst ones. I know they are both so proud of what I’ve done, but really, I couldn’t have done it without them.

They’ve always put my best interest first and given me the greatest opportunities. I want to thank my coaches, LeWarne “L-dogg,” Ms. Bakketun “Miss B,” and Shelly Davis “Shell.” You all have been there – giving me a hard time – since the first day of cross country my freshman year when LeWarne said, “I wouldn’t believe another girl would show up until I saw it.” Sure enough, I was there and I had no idea what I was getting into. From workouts where I’ve wanted to curse their names to victories and defeats, I couldn’t have asked for better mentors and coaches.

Ethan Cox

(Baseball, Bellevue College)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete: For me, it means completing schoolwork before baseball. Education comes first and is necessary. As an athlete at Kamiak, I’ve made many of whom are my best friends today. It’s given me a sense of community and allowed me to pursue my sport with friends and caring coaches.

Words of appreciation: I would like to thank my parents for always supporting me throughout my athletic career. Whether it was driving me to games or just

KAMIAK

watching in the stands, they were always there.

Aidan Drought

(Soccer, Seattle Pacific University)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete: It takes some difficulty multitasking difficult classes and returning to do some more work on the field. I met some very compassionate and understanding teachers that I won’t forget past graduation.

Words of appreciation: I would like to thank these teachers for keeping my head up through my difficult times: Frau Storr, Mr. Crane, Mrs. Ordway, Mrs. Bakketun, Mr. Bowker, and especially Mr. Davis.

Jack Fenton (Baseball, Columbia Basin College)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete: To me the experience with my teammates made it fun for me. I will never forget the bus rides to and from games.

Words of appreciation: I want to thank by parents for everything they’ve done for me up to this point and more specifically my dad for coaching me and teaching me everything I know, and I also want to thank my mom for helping me improve my mental game.

Wesley Garrett

(Football, Eastern Washington University)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete: It means a lot to represent Kamiak High School at EWU. I hope that I can inspire other football players and student-athletes.

Words of appreciation: I would like to thank my parents for everything they have done for me and for believing in me. I appreciate all of the coaches I’ve had throughout my athletic career.

Jackson Hammons (Cross country/track, University of Nevada, Reno)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete: Being a leader in my sport and supporting other sports. Attending all the theme nights for football, volleyball, and basketball.

Words of appreciation: Thank you to my coaches for supporting me and helping me reach my goals, and to my parents for driving, however far needed, to cheer on me, and my brother for a 15-minute race.

Oliver Holod (Swimming, Seattle University)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete: It means to work hard and be a good example to others. I will remember all of the people I was on the team with.

Weston Joyner (Soccer, California State University)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete: Playing soccer on the same team with my friends at Kamiak has been a lot of fun since I don’t get to play with them in club soccer.

Words of appreciation: I’d like to thank my parents and also everybody who helped me.

Athlete of the Week

The Athletes of the Week for Unified Track are Ally Cihak and Jake Cheff. These two truly embody the unified sports movement and are both senior leaders on and off the track. Ally ran a personal record in the 100M dash at the last home track meet. Her dedication to improving her running stamina and strength over the last year has paid off! Jake helped his Unified relay team place second in the 4 x 100M race. Jake goes above and beyond to support the success of this teammates. He inspires others to include all people of all abilities. GO KAMIAK UNIFIED!

425-374-8218

827 128th St. SW, Suite B Everett, WA

www.everettbraces.com

Kamiak athletes signing letters of intent to continue their athletic careers in college were: back row, Cayden Wotipka (baseball, Lower Columbia College); Jackson Hammons (cross country and track, University of Nevada, Reno); Nolan Martin (football, George Fox University); Weston Joyner (soccer, California State University, Chico); middle row, Jack Fenton (baseball, Columbia Basin College); Emma Arceo (cross country and track, University of Arizona); Sophia Ryu (swimming, Chapman University); Alessandra Valmonte (track and field, Pacific Lutheran University); Cade Weatherbie (soccer, California State University, Vallejo); bottom row, Samuel Shigematsu (football, Pacific Lutheran University), Wesley Garrett (football, Eastern Washington University); Aidan Drought (soccer, Seattle Pacific University); Ethan Cox (baseball, Bellevue College). Not pictured: Oliver Holod (swimming, Seattle University)

Nolan Martin (Football, George Fox University)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete: It means having a second family. I will remember turning the program around.

Words of appreciation: Thank you to my coaches.

Sophia Ryu (Swimming, Chapman University)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete: The friendships I made and connections with such an amazing community of athletes.

Words of appreciation:

I’d like to thank all of my past and current teammates and coaches, my family, and friends for all the support!

Samuel Shigematsu (football, Pacific Lutheran University)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete: Balancing school and sports. Being a role model for my peers, on and off the field. Representing Kamiak in the best way possible.

Words of appreciation:

Thanks to all of my family, friends, teammates, and coaches, both inside and outside of my school, who’ve been there for me on and off the field. I would also like to especially thank my mom and dad for always being

there to support me in every way, through the ups and downs, to cheer me on, and uplift me throughout my entire life.

Alessandra Valmonte

(Track and field, Pacific Lutheran University)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete:

To me, being a Kamiak student-athlete means being surrounded by a community that always supports and pushes you. I will always remember taking the time to make connections with my teammates, as they later became my second family. And all the success, laughs, and even frustration we all shared with each other. I will always have

see LETTERS OF INTENT page 11 u

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Ally Cihak Unified Track Jake Cheff Unified Track

Beacon photo by David Pan

Knights shake off sluggish 1st half, score two 2nd-half goals

by DAVID PAN

Kamiak took a hard look in the mirror at halftime of its game against archrival Mariner.

The Knights trailed 1-0 but could have been down by more as two shots bounced off the crossbar and one of the goalposts.

A stern talk by Kamiak coach Kosta Pitharoulis provided some added motivation.

The difference between the first and second half became apparent, with a much higher energy level from the Knights.

“I would say it was the flip of a switch,” Pitharoulis said.

Senior Cade Weatherbie tied the score at 1 with a goal in the 64th minute and three minutes later junior Koll Pehlivanian produced the game-winner to lead Kamiak to a 2-1 victory over the Marauders in a Wesco 4A boys soccer game April 19 at Goddard Stadium.

“I think we just realized that we needed to pick it up against our rival team,” Weatherbie said. “This usually happens. We start out slow against this team, and we come back with energy in the second half.”

The Knights (3-1-1 in the league, 6-4-3 overall) trailed 2-1 against the Marauders (2-4-0, 4-8-1) in the first meeting between the Mukilteo District schools. Kamiak responded with three unanswered second-half goals to secure a 4-2 victory.

Pitharoulis said the Knights drew some motivation from some calls that they felt weren’t going the right way.

“Sometimes you have to find a common opponent,” Pitharoulis said. “Apparently, we didn’t feel like it was Mariner. I think some of the calls that didn’t go our way gave the guys the fuel to come together. … It’s kind of a weird scenario. But

Kamiak rallies to beat archrival Mariner again

those connections and positive relationships with my teammates that I will be able to take with me beyond Kamiak High School, and even beyond my athletic career. For these lifelong friendships and the second family that I have been blessed to be with, I will forever be thankful for my opportunity to be a Kamiak student-athlete.

Words of appreciation:

MARINER

sometimes as a team you’ve got to find that common element if you’re not as pumped up.”

Mariner took a 1-0 lead on a goal by Alhagie Jammeh at the 17-minute mark.

“We really weren’t giving it as much energy and effort as we needed,” Pitharoulis said.

Marauders coach Henry Busch liked how his team played in the first half.

“We were playing exactly how we should have been playing – just controlling the game,” he said. “We put two off the posts. We had a couple of close calls. So yeah, it could have been a higher score at halftime for sure.”

I would like to thank my family, for being my BIGGEST supporters, and helping me through my many trials of finding the sport I enjoy most, for being patient, and for cheering me on ALWAYS! My friends, for being a constant pick-me-up. My teammates, for pushing me to be the athlete I am today, and for cheering me on even through my toughest competitions. And of course, my coach, Mr. Stengele, for believing in me when I did not believe in myself and showing me my true po-

Athlete of the Week

Mariner’s student athlete of the week is David Villanueva.

David is a senior third baseman on the baseball team and goes quietly about his business every day. David is a hard worker and loves to play the game of baseball. He leads by example, shows up every day and puts in the time to get better. David is one of the best hitters on the team this year and has made his mark in clutch at bats. We can always count on David to get the job done.

425-374-8218

827 128th St. SW, Suite B Everett, WA

Is proud to recognize outstanding students in our community. www.everettbraces.com

But a problem that has reared its head before – a lack of focus – came back to haunt Mariner in the second half.

Despite Busch’s constant admonishment to focus, focus, the Marauders seemed to lose it in the second half.

“I just think we kind of lost focus there in the second half,” he said. “They’re high school boys. I don’t know. I couldn’t tell you why. It’s been happening all year.”

Kamiak was coming off a 3-2 loss to Lake Stevens and a 3-3 tie with Jackson. Pitharoulis saw some similarities between the first half against Mariner and the loss to the Vikings.

“We just lacked a little energy against Lake Stevens,” he said. “It’s not that we’re a bad team. It’s just we’ve got to make sure that we get up for these games since they all count. We were kind of scoreboard watching a little bit with Lake Stevens.”

The Vikings, who sit at the bottom of the Wesco 4A standings, are 1-4-1 in league play and 4-6-1 overall.

“They haven’t had the best record so far,” Pitharoulis said. “When the boys start looking at that stuff, they get ahead of themselves.”

Pitharoulis challenged the Knights at halftime, and he was glad to see the players

tential in what I do.

Cade Weatherbie (Soccer, California State University)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete: Kamiak has strong athletic traditions. I am proud to represent my school at athletic events. I’ll remember all the big wins and being with my teammates.

Words of appreciation:

Thanks to all my coaches since I started playing soccer, and to my parents.

respond.

“We rallied and that was, I think, the most important part – showing some true character as a team,” he said.

Pitharoulis encouraged the Knights to play for one another and to get it done for each other as a team and as teammates.

“At halftime, he just said we were on a downhill slide,” Weatherbie added.

Trailing by only one goal gave the Knights hope in the second half.

“It was just enough for us to feel like we can still get back in the game and gave us the hope we needed,” Weatherbie said.

Senior goalkeeper Weston Joyner also made several key saves to keep his team in the game.

“Weston is a very good goalkeeper, and I wouldn’t expect anything but him rising to the occasion,” Pitharoulis said.

“We’re lucky to have him,” Weatherbie added. “We can’t really do anything without him.”

The slow starts to games is an issue Kamiak has to fix, Pitharoulis said. “We need to start faster.”

What Busch wants to see from the Marauders is a full effort for 80 minutes.

“We’ve got three games left, and we just need to finish the season strong.”

Cayden Wotipka (Baseball, Lower Columbia College)

What it means to be a Kamiak student-athlete: Being a Kamiak student-athlete to me means playing and representing my community on the field, off the field, and in the classroom.

Words of appreciation:

My Mom and Dad, Chuck and Jackie, for supporting me throughout my athletic journey and being my inspiration to keep pushing myself every day.

David Villanueva Baseball

Mariner’s Alexis Villasenor-Roman brings the ball up the field.

Beacon photos by David Pan

Kamiak’s Aidan Drought battles for the ball with Mariner’s Amadou Jadama (right) during a Wesco 4A game April 19 at Goddard Stadium.

Kamiak’s Cade Weatherbie (16) scored the game-tying goal against Mariner.

When soil and air temperatures starte d to warm up, after Memorial Day, the tomatoes could be planted. In addition to Marina’s own 8 by 8 bed, three food bank beds were devoted to her experiment. She immediately put stakes next to each one to help keep them tied up as they grew. And as a bonus for the food bank, basil, a good companion plant to tomatoes, was planted throughout those beds as well.

Last summer’s intense heat was unwelcome to many, but the tomato plants loved it. Regular watering ensured healthy plants, and the yield was very rewarding. All together, Marina grew 38 plants and harvested 350 pounds, most of which went to food banks in Mukilteo and Lynnwood, to the delight of local food bank customers.

The tomatoes Marina grows are started from seeds she selects and orders online from different tomato growers. Last year her focus was tomatoes that would do well in a cooler climate and would mature mid-season. This year she’s going to try the Green Zebra mentioned above, as well as other midseason tomatoes grown for slicing.

There are too many varieties to enumerate here, but Marina does have a favorite: “Jaune Flamme was the first tomato I ever grew. I obviously bought it for the sexy name (“flame yellow”) and it didn’t disappoint. I’ve loved the pretty orange medium,

CROSSWORD

perfectly round and tasty fruit, and hope to keep it on rotation for years to come.”

Other favorites include Azoychka, a yellow medium beefsteak that’s early to ripen, Paul Robeson, a medium brown tomato with a complex sweet and smoky flavor, and Bull’s Heart, a large heart-shaped pink fruit with excellent sweet flavor.

When asked why she is so crazy about tomatoes, Marina explained: “There is almost nothing that beats a hearty tomato sandwich on a tasty slice of grande boule bread, or a caprese salad with mozzarella, the good kind, and freshly picked basil, or for the adventurous kind, the tomato base bortsch as my family makes it, or even cold gazpacho soup. It does take the perfect tomato fruit, though, to achieve those gastro wonders.”

At the end of the 2021 season, Marina pondered: “As any farmer and determined gardener would attest, October is the season for gardening fatigue. I’m dreading the Post Tomato Stress Disorder, as Tim Stark calls it. Was it worth it? Am I doing this again? Should I just quit, move into a highrise and only look at vegetables on Instagram? I could, but I won’t.”

Marina’s 2022 tomato season is in full swing, with seedlings almost ready to pot up. Visit the Mukilteo Community Garden later this summer for a look at the latest batch of tomato dreams. To schedule a tour and meet Marina, send a message to p-patch@mukilteogarden.org.

hues are meant to represent summer and winter. These seasons were agriculturally significant to the Kalapuyan.

Water is also a main focal point in “Tualatin Lifeblood,” by Jennifer Kuhns. Blue mosaic inlays run through stones in a rippling pattern suggest the importance of waterways to the area.

Jeremy Nichols’ “A Walk Through Time” is an eye-popping piece of aerosol-sprayed wall art. You can see images from the city’s history, including native flora and fauna, as well as indigenous inhabitants.

It’s hard to miss “Corylus,” a marker for one end of Main Street. Commissioned by the City of Tigard, Brian Borello’s giant, painted steel form was inspired by the agricultural roots of the region, particularly the hazelnut orchards that once graced the landscape.

The last piece on the route is “Musical Bench” by Jill Torberson. This popular and colorful cubed bench installation entices visitors to make music via several alumi-

the prestigious Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan in 2014 after serving as the acting associate principal and second clarinet of the Kansas City Symphony. Born in Turkmenistan, Khudyev began his musical training under the auspices of the Moscow Conservatory, and at age 7 was admitted to the Special Music School of Turkmenistan.

The Cascade Symphony will open the concert performing Spanish composer Manuel de Falla’s Suite No. 2 from “The Three-Cornered Hat.”

“This ballet premiered 100 years ago, and immediately put de Falla on the map as a leading European composer of the time,” Miropolsky said. “The suite is full of vigor and beauty.”

The concert will close with Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “Fifth Symphony.”

“That work is Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece,”

num chimes that can be pushed to activate sound.

When you sit down, you can feel the vibrations of the soundwaves resonate through your body.

I spent a bit of time enjoying the experience before heading to Symposium Coffee to warm up with a chai tea.

Miropolsky said. “It’s often called ‘Fate Symphony’ and it reflects the composer’s turbulent emotional life. Unfortunately, the musical piece’s triumphant ending did not reflect that of Tchaikovsky’s personal life.”

Ticket are: $27 for adults; $22 for seniors (60-plus); $15 for students with an ID; and $10 for youth (12 and younger).

Tickets can be purchased online through the ECA website (https://www.edmondscenterforthearts.org/events/category/13/ cascade-symphony-orchestra) and by telephone (425-275-9595). The ECA Box Office may be reached by email at boxoffice@ ec4arts.org. The ECA Box Office is currently open 12-5 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, and extended hours during performances.

Joining other performance arts venues in the region, the ECA is requiring proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test for entry to all performances and events in the theater. Masks are required inside the ECA. The venue’s complete and up-to-date regulations can be found at www.ec4arts.org.

Additional information about the Cascade Symphony Orchestra, including its schedule for the 2022-23 concert season that begins in October, as well as any other updates, will be available online at www.cascadesymphony.org.

Puzzle Level: Easy

Puzzle by Myles Mellor

Answers on page 5

u from SEASON FINALE page 6

Photos courtesy of Debbie Stone

“A Walk Through Time” in Tigard, Oregon

A decorative glass basket hangs on a street corner in Tigard, Oregon.

u from STONE page 6

u from ARPA FUNDS page 1

from Vice President Elisabeth Crawford, and Councilmembers Tom Jordal, Richard Emery, Riaz Khan, and Louis Harris. Emery and Khan said they would like to see 70% of the remaining ARPA funds spent on capital projects. The rest indicated support for at least 50%.

Emery strongly was in favor of funding capital projects.

“This is again one-time money, and I think ... the most prudent thing to do is spend it on things that are doable, that we don’t have to keep paying for over time,” Emery said. “So I’d like to see that be maybe 70%, 75%.”

Harris wants to make sure the City spends the ARPA funding wisely.

“I’m more interested in like, how do we get the most bang for the buck?” Harris said. “What’s going to be the most impactful to residents, and I think that’s a broader discussion.”

Councilmember Jason Moon agreed with Harris, and expressed concerns about funding capital projects.

“I’m open, but at the same time I want to make sure that our ARPA funds are going to the majority of the people in Mukilteo,” Moon said. “And I feel like some of these capital projects will only support a small percentage of our community. Although some of them more than the others. I’m just afraid that the whole community won’t benefit. It’ll just be a small pocket. … Who is going to benefit? Is it just going to be a few hundred people? A few thousand people? So I think that’s a question we should ask ourselves.”

AUTOMOTIVE

DONATIONS

DONATE YOUR CAR TO CHARITY. Receive maximum value of write off for your taxes. Running or not! All conditions accepted. Free pickup. Call for details, 855-635-4229.

EMPLOYMENT

FOOD SERVICE

Edmonds Landing

Retirement and Assisted

Living currently has job openings for full time, part time servers/wait staff in our dining room. Various weekly and weekend shifts. Please call, email or visit us at: Edmonds Landing, 180 Second Ave. S, Edmonds, WA 98020, 425744-1181, office@edmondslanding.com

EDITOR

MANAGING EDITOR.

The award-winning Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle is seeking a topnotch managing editor to lead the newsroom in the largest community newspaper in beautiful NorthCentral Washington. Visit www.omakchronicle.com\ classifieds EOE.

Dennis L. Berkshire

Died June 22, 2021. A Celebration of Life for Dennis will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Saturday, May 7, in the Christensen room at the Rosehill Community Center, 304 Lincoln Ave., Mukilteo, Washington. All are welcome!

u from BEACH CLEANUP page 1

American educational project that they shared with elementary and middle school students.

“Mukilteo is on native land,” Lee said.

The outreach committee engages with students and offers ways for them to volunteer or log service hours.

The mental health committee created a podcast called “Mental Massage,” and MYAC also held an art contest.

MYAC also advocates for issues that are important for youth.

“Our outreach committee this year is really focusing on trying to voice for student and youth concerns because that is our main priority,” Lee said.

This is Lee’s second year with MYAC, and she encourages others to find out more about the committee.

“This is a fun group of people, who are really passionate about helping Mukilteo.”

Classified Ads

u from JEWELRY COLLECTION page 7

services, advocacy, and more.

The “Cranes for Peace” fundraising campaign was launched in May 2021. The first $1,000 was donated to Stop AAPI Hate in October 2021, six months after the campaign first launched, and the second $1,000 was donated in March 2022 for a total of $2,000 to date.

The Asian tradition of 1,000 paper cranes represents granting a special wish, happiness, long life, and symbolizes peace. Using “Washi” or traditional Japanese paper that is processed by hand and made in the traditional manner, these handcrafted cranes are also treated to prevent UV fading and are water-resistant before being transformed into delicate earrings. The 2022 Spring Collection offers cranes in lavender, yellow, soft pink, light blue, mint green, and white.

MEDICAL/HEALTH

Edmonds Landing Retirement has Caregiver and Med Tech positions available. Full time, Part time, day shifts, evening, and weekends. Caregivers

$16.50 - $17.00 per hour, Med Techs $17.50 - $18.00 per hour. $1000 sign on bonus for FT and $500 for PT. Please visit us at 180 Second Ave S. Edmonds,WA, call us at 425-744-1181 or email: nurse@edmondslanding.com

WRITING

The Beacon is seeking a freelance writer to cover high school sports. Deadline-driven, 10 cents /word. Experience a plus. Email: edmondseditor @yourbeacon.net with Freelance in the subject line

INSTRUCTION LESSONS

VOICE & PIANO LESSONS Harwood Studios. 425246-2850. www.harwood studios.xyz

MERCHANDISE

BUILDING SUPPLIES

ELIMINATE GUTTER CLEANING FOREVER! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-751-0411.

The Great Mukilteo GARAGE SALE is May 14th

Only $15 for up to 25 words. Get $1 discount with non-perishable food donations brought to the Beacon for the Mukilteo Food Bank. Submit your ad online at mukilteobeacon.com/gs ~ or ~ email to classifieds@ yourbeacon.net

MERCHANDISE

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

SONY Multi Channel A/V Receiver, Model STRDG510. HDMI. dts, etc. $115.00/obo. 425-903-6898

EQUIPMENT

PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES today with a GENERAC home standby generator. $0 money down +low monthly payment options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-888674-7053.

Are you giving things away?

**************** We offer FREE Classifieds for FREE Stuff

ADULT CARE SERVICES

CLEANING

Clean & Simple Cleaning Residential housecleaning, all supplies provided. Licensed & Insured. 425673-4733. www.Clean andSimpleCleaning.com

FLOORING

CARPET & VINYL installation & repair. 20 years experience, local professional. Free estimates. 425-343-6013. License: #GREGGCY992PK.

LEGAL

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SOLUTIONS

Is compulsive eating a problem for you? Overeaters Anonymous meetings are currently virtual. Free. We welcome newcomers. See info on meetings at: www. seattleoa.org/meetings

Al-anon and Alateen is a support group for friends and families of alcoholics. For a list of local meetings go to www.dist23.org or call 425-348-7828.

Are cocaine, drugs or alcohol a problem in your life?

Cocaine Anonymous can help. www.caofwa.org. 425244-1150.

Substantive typographical errors (wrong address, telephone number, name or price) will result in a "make good", in which a corrected ad will be run the following week. WNPA incurs no other liability for errors in publication.

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Place Ads: Call: 425-347-5634, Email: classifieds@yourbeacon.net Online: mukilteobeacon.com/classifieds

online or by phone mukilteobeacon.com 425-347-5634 ADVERTISE STATEWIDE with a $325 classified listing or $1,575 for a display ad. Call this newspaper or 360-344-2938 for details. MISCELLANEOUS LOOKING FOR ASSISTED LIVING, memory care, or independent living? A Place for Mom simplifies the process of finding senior living at no cost to your family. Call 1-855-9132628 today! Find your LOCAL employees with a help wanted ad in the Beacon Classifieds. Call 425-347-5634 Attention Service Providers Call 425-347-5634 to place an ad in your hometown paper. ANNOUNCEMENTS CELEBRATIONS Prepare for Power Outages & Save Money REQUEST A FREE QUOTE! ACT NOW TO RECEIVE A $300 SPECIAL OFFER!* (866)954-2961 *O er value when purchased at retail. Solar panels sold separately. *To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install and activate the generator with a participating dealer. Call for a full list of terms and conditions. REQUEST A FREE QUOTE CALL NOW BEFORE THE NEXT POWER OUTAGE (888)674-7053 $0 MONEY DOWN + LOW MONTHLY PAYMENT OPTIONS Contact a Generac dealer for full terms and conditions Prepare for power outages today WITH A HOME STANDBY GENERATOR FREE 7-Year Extended Warranty* A $695 Value! PAYMENT OPTIONS

Beacon photos by David Pan Top right, Kamiak sophomores Isabella Shelton and Hannah Elkins (right) walk the beach looking for garbage. Above, Mukilteo Youth Advisory Committee member Jonah Rand gives some gloves to a participant in Saturday’s beach cleanup event.

When the cup is empty

In our ordinary life, we’re like dreamers believing that the dream we’re having is real.

We think we’re awake, but we’re not. We think that this busy mind of thoughts and emotions is who we truly are. But when we actually wake up, our misunderstanding about who we are – and the suffering that confusion brings – is gone.

come easily, yet it helps to recognize that our thoughts, behaviors, and perspective of who we think we are when we can accept that what is constant in the stream of our life is always changing even when we cannot see that change occurring.

most of us, and we become self-protective dedicating ourselves to noise and chaotic states of busyness.

However, as the late Lama Yeshe once said, “The truly rich person is the one who has a satisfied mind. The affluence of satisfaction comes from wisdom, not from external things … If you are truly free from the mind of attachment, you’ll see that nothing really belongs to you in the first place …”

of us with sustained effort, experience can mature into realization, and those momentary gaps in our glimpses of emptiness eventually become a stabilized experience that supports us to “wake up and stay up!”

BY SAL BARBA, PH.D.

Dzogchen Ponlop (taken from “Dreams of Light: The Profound Daytime Practice of Lucid Dreaming” by Andrew Holecek).

When I was a young person, I was terrified of being by myself; especially by myself in the dark. I became addicted to looking outside of myself for security – as if that fully exists! My conventional forms that I had constructed around me had to go! And, in my late 20s when I experienced my first glimpse of emptiness for a short period of time all hell broke loose!

The work had to be done to reevaluate the way I viewed my inner life, as well as my outer life. However, change does not

Fundamental to acceptance of change –and dealing with it, is the recognition of emptiness. I am not referring to “emptiness” as an existential or nihilistic component of awareness. Emptiness is integral in the importance of waking up and recognizing that the cup is not just half full or empty, but it is already broken! This realization supported me in my journey to wake up and look at the cup of my life!

It is said that waking up means that one has discovered emptiness. Therefore, emptiness is the “end of form as we know it, the death of materialism, and for a fully formed and materialistic ego it is akin to death.”

When we become addicted to seeing only outside of ourselves, we miss an opportunity to access our inner being. The thought of meditation can freak us out! However, when we become dedicated to a world of distraction, the idea of silence and self-reflection can become terrifying. Looking inward is not a favored choice for

There is a marvelous story about a monk in a monastery. One day some delicious yogurt had been getting served at the long table the monks were sitting at. One monk was sitting down the line of the table and was hearing the loud slosh of yogurt put into the bowls of the monks ahead of him. He began to worry that the other monks were receiving too much, and there would not be enough for him.

Suddenly, he realized what was going on in his mind. He began to meditate upon how powerful attachment is, and how his mind began creating fantasies that had nothing to do with reality. He decided to turn his bowl down. When the server arrived at his place, the yogi said, “No thanks, I already had mine.”

To further mature our experience of emptiness, we must develop three sets of skillful tools: listening to the wise teachings of our elders – in this sense the wisdom of the Buddhist masters, (or contemplative mystics) contemplation, and meditation. These are the tools that will support a seeker to gradually mature in the ways of those teachings.

When we listen, we are studying the teachings, when we contemplate, we are engaged in reflection to deepen their meaning, and finally to embody the teachings we must meditate. We need to learn how to meditate in order to integrate our experiences of emptiness.

Ajahn Chah states that, “If you try to understand it intellectually, your head will probably explode!” (not really) It’s just a way of saying that too much intellectual understanding does not support us to move beyond the academic understanding of emptiness, because emptiness is not an enterprise of the head, it’s the journey of our heart!

Thanks

SO much to all our Mukilteo partners who have food bank donation bins at their site:

To volunteer or donate: www.mukilteofoodbank.org

At Your Service

When we practice in the way the story of the monk illustrates, we begin to awake, and realize emptiness! But when we have our first experience of emptiness, it becomes elusive because of our ingrained habitual patterns that underlie that microsecond of a gap between what is real and what is not. We can currently see this occurring all around us where there is such destruction to all life! However, for some

u from WRIGHT page 5

The University of Findlay (Ohio) offers English and Western Equestrian Studies programs as well as an Equine Business Management degree.

For more information about schools of higher education that have equestrian programs, Google “colleges with equestrian scholarships.”

It’s disappointing, since our state is horse country, that there’s not one college or university, including Washington State University, which has a specific academic equestrian

May the journey of your heart deepen and ripen you into a more kind, patient, and authentic human being, supporting you and others to walk lightly on this planet. May you find others that will support your journey to study, to contemplate, to meditate, and to awaken and mature the heart – especially in these challenging times.

degree program or scholarships.

I will note Soap Lake’s Langley Equine Studies has an equestrian massage certification program.

Disquieting, there’s not one Washington college or university, listed above. I believe our state legislators must step forward and push for a bachelor of arts or science degree to be installed in that field.

Darn right, all y’all horse nuts, many outside Washington, collegiate barn doors are open to you, so saddle-up and go for one of those equestrian scholarships!

Notice to Readers: The Beacon publishes service advertisements from licensed and non-licensed businesses and individuals. You are encouraged, for you protection, to ask to see their business license before hiring. Washington State Construction Contractor Law, RCW 18.27, requires that all advertisement for construction related services include the contractors current Department of Labor and Industries (LNI) contractor registration number as well as the registration name of the firm as registered with LNI contractor registration section. Failure to obtain a certificate of registration from LNI or show the contractor registration number in all advertising may result in a fine or penalty. For more information, call LNI Specialty Compliance Services division at 800-647-0982 or check the LNI website at www.lni.wa.gov.

NEWS BRIEFS

Residents invited to waterfront community open house on May 5

The Port of Everett, in partnership with the City of Mukilteo, is hosting a community open house on the future development at the Mukilteo waterfront on Thursday, May 5.

Chat with Mukilteo City Council President Schmalz

Mukilteo City Council President Steve Schmalz will be having a Council Chat with the community from 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 3 in the Rosehill room at the Rosehill Community Center, 304 Lincoln Ave. Residents are welcome to come with their questions, concerns, and suggestions about the issues in and around Mukilteo.

Community Transit seeking community feedback on proposed transit network redesign

Community members, regional users, and visitors to the Mukilteo waterfront are encouraged to stop by the Rosehill Community Center’s Christiansen room between 4-7 p.m. to hear about the waterfront planning effort now underway, and to take part in an interactive exercise to get a sense of what is desired –and most importantly, what is not desired –at the waterfront. Everyone is encouraged to provide input and to help define the vision and guiding principles moving forward for the waterfront.

A webpage and an online survey will also launch the week of May 5, offering another option to learn more and offer valuable feedback. The survey will remain open through May 26.

Both in-person and digital options will allow the public to review a draft vision statement and draft set of guiding principles developed by a waterfront stakeholder workgroup, with input from individual interviews with City Councilmembers and others.

Learn more at www.portofeverett.com/ mukilteo.

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But those residents who don’t work in Seattle or don’t have any interest in going are still going to feel the impact of light rail.

Community Transit plans to redistribute its resources throughout Snohomish County, including in Mukilteo.

Riders should expect more frequent service, especially on the east/west connections to the primary north/south corridors, and more frequent connections to places, such as the Lynnwood Transit Center.

Rotary Club hosts dueling pianos benefit

The Rotary Club of South Everett-Mukilteo is hosting a dueling pianos benefit show on Sunday, May 15, at the Rosehill Community Center in Mukilteo.

Entertainment will be provided by Killer Keyz, the top-rated dueling pianos show in the country. The performance features an all-request, high-energy audience interactive performance.

Tickets are $50 per person and include dinner and a two-hour dueling pianos show. Proceeds from the event will be used for service projects in the community.

Doors open at 5 p.m. with dinner at 5:30 p.m. and a piano show at 6:30 p.m.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit duelingpianosforrotary.com or contact Sheila Countryman-Bean at 425760-5964.

Two goals have guided the discussion on potential changes in 2024.

“The first was to provide that really compelling connection to link light rail and to reorganize our service around link as a way to provide that connection to regional travel, and also to connect communities that we serve more effectively,” Behee said.

“We also want to expand access to frequent service.”

Industry experience indicates a transit system that operates with buses every 10 to 20 minutes means that riders no longer need a schedule.

Community Transit is asking people who live and travel in Snohomish County to provide feedback on a redesigned bus network in anticipation of connecting to light rail in 2024.

The online survey is open through May 31 and is available in five languages:

• English: transit2024.participate.online

• Spanish: transit2024-spanish.participate.online

• Korean: transit2024-korean.participate.online

• Chinese: transit2024-chinese.participate.online

• Russian: transit2024-russian.participate.online

Community Transit will host a Zoom presentation of the draft bus network on May 2 at noon. The Zoom program can be accessed at bit.ly/Transit2024OpenHouseMay2. Members of the public can review the new routes and ask questions.

“With light rail coming to Lynnwood, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to remake bus service in our county

“You just walk out to the bus stop, and you’re not late for the bus,” Behee said. “You’re just early for the next one.”

Community Transit plans to focus more on providing connections in Snohomish County rather than inter-county. The pandemic also has altered people’s work schedules and, in many cases, their work environments.

“The world has changed,” Ilgenfritz said. “The 9-to-5 commute, Monday through Friday, appears to be in the rearview mirror, at least in transit terms.”

Moving forward, Community Transit said

to make it easier for more people to use,” said Community Transit CEO Ric Ilgenfritz. “We’re rolling out ideas based on the first round of public input, and we really want to hear what people think. This is the public’s chance to help shape the future of mobility in Snohomish County.”

The proposal consolidates bus service into 36 routes within Snohomish County, offering more frequent service on certain routes. Some new routes will be added along with more evening service. Also included is expansion of bus rapid transit (BRT) service, the agency’s highest ridership service, which travels along some of the most heavily used corridors in the county. Swift Orange Line will be the third BRT route to serve riders in Snohomish County, and will offer direct connections to light rail in Lynnwood.

The agency is also exploring new service options like microtransit, which will be piloted in Lynnwood later this year.

Once approved, the route changes will take place in 2023-24.

it needs to be flexible and consistent.

Agency will redraw its bus routes to connect with regional light rail in 2024 right now.”

“Travel is going to be different than it was, so we need to cater to that,” Behee said. “We need to really strive to provide a different level of convenience in some cases. … Frequency is really the key service characteristic that is so important in attracting a wider audience to transit.”

In 2024, Mukilteo residents should expect increased frequency of service in Harbour Pointe, Mukilteo Speedway, Old Town, and the waterfront. More service is planned for the Future of Flight and Paine Field. The see LIGHT RAIL page 16 u

ministrator Nuria Fernandez

• Community Transit Board Chair and Mukilteo Mayor Joe Marine

• Washington State Gov. Jay Inslee

• U.S. Sens. Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray

• U.S. Reps. Suzan DelBene and Rick Larsen

• Washington State Sen. Marko Liias

• Community Transit Board Member and Lynnwood Mayor Christine Frizzell

“Swift Orange Line represents a significant infrastructure investment in Snohomish County, one that will benefit generations to come,” said Community Transit CEO Ric Ilgenfritz. “Our elected leaders recognize the explosive growth in the county, and we appreciate their support and partnership in developing transit service that will meet the evolving travel needs of people in the community.”

Swift Orange Line will run between Edmonds College in Lynnwood and McCollum Park Park & Ride in Mill Creek. It will connect with Link light rail at Lynnwood City Center Station (currently Lynnwood Transit Center), and with Swift Blue Line at Highway 99 and 196th Street in Lynnwood. It will also connect

with Swift Green Line, sharing stations on Bothell-Everett Highway in Mill Creek.

“Fast and frequent trips are what makes BRT a unique transit experience,” said Community Transit Board Chair and Mukilteo Mayor Joe Marine. “Swift Orange Line will improve the quality of life for people who travel in and around Snohomish County by providing increased access to school, jobs, medical care, and other essential services.”

With frequent stops on popular commercial and residential corridors, the two other Community Transit BRT Lines, Swift Blue and Green lines, currently have the highest level of ridership in Community Transit’s network. Swift riders prepay at the station before boarding the bus at any of the bus’s three doors for quicker trips. Swift buses arrive every 1012 minutes weekdays, and every 20 minutes nights and weekends.

When Swift Orange Line launches, riders will enjoy upgraded features including 19 stations with rain shelters, additional seating, improved lighting, and real-time departure/arrival signage. A new transit center at Edmonds College, and a redesigned McCollum Park Park & Ride will enhance the route.

service won’t just be during peak hours but throughout the day and also on weekends.

“We’ll also be providing a very compelling all-day connection, a rapid connection, from the ferry terminal, Old Town area, all the way down the Speedway straight shot to Lynnwood Transit Center for its connection to light rail,” Behee said. “And again, not just peak hour connection you have today in service, but all-day connections.”

Last week, Community Transit unveiled its latest line – Swift Orange – to connect Snohomish County during a groundbreaking ceremony. The new Swift Orange line will run between McCollum Park near Mill Creek to the eventual Lynnwood City Center Station (currently Lynnwood Transit Center) to Edmonds College in Lynnwood.

“We’re really excited about this project,” Behee said. “It’s going to really create this true network of Swift corridors in southwest County.”

See related story on page 3.

Microtransit pilot project

A new pilot project in Lynnwood piqued the interest of several councilmembers. The microtransit program is an on-demand service that encompasses a specific portion of the city including key destinations, such as the Lynnwood Transit Center, Alderwood mall, and Edmonds College.

“Folks can use their phones to summon a vehicle and pay a fare on an app, standard transit fare, and be brought into the system to go anywhere you want to go within Lynnwood or to any transit hub,” Ilgenfritz said. “It’s a model we want to look at and see if it’s possible to scale sustainably in Snohomish County. It presents an opportunity for us to think differently about how we serve people.

In some cases, the service might be door to door. An example would be someone who wants to go to City Hall or do some shopping.

“It’s possible that it could carry you from very close to your house to that destination, and it will provide that entire journey,” Behee said.

If the destination is outside of the city, the microtransit might take the rider to a transit center to make a connection.

“The general concept is you pay with your phone or with a phone call if you don’t have the mobile app,” Behee said. “The service is generally designed to be there within 10 to 15 minutes. We don’t want people to

have a long wait time.”

The pilot project will be contracted to private operators and will last 12 months. The program will use smaller vehicles, such as vans, cut-a-way vehicles, or paratransit buses.

“We’re going to learn a lot in the pilot,” Behee said. “We’re going to learn more about the exact scope and scale of the services, and what works well and what doesn’t work well. We intend to step back and answer those questions before we move forward with the ongoing operation.”

Public input

Community Transit will be continuing its public outreach to residents to gain their insight on the restructuring of service in Snohomish County.

The agency announced an online survey that will run through May 31. See related story on page 15.

A previous online open house drew about 1,000 participants. Community Transit officials also have met with representatives from every city and county partner agency, and also contacted different community organizations.

The focus now is more on the details, the different network concepts, instead of the conceptual or value-based input. Participants will be able to see route maps and details of how transit is going to change in their communities.

“It’s going to be a multipronged strategy where we have an online open house,” Behee said. “We’ll be pushing out a lot on social media to get the word out. We also have a growing number of community-based organizations that we’ve been developing relationships over the past two and a half years, and we’ll be reaching out directly to them to meet them where they are, and we’ll be providing presentations to raise awareness about the opportunity process.”

The board will be making a decision on the plan and changes in December.

Through Community Transit’s ridership is not back up to prepandemic levels, the agency is in solid shape, Ilgenfritz said. Ridership is beginning to rebound.

Ilgenfritz said he is proud of Community Transit’s response to the pandemic.

“We made it all the way from March 2020 to today without missing a day of service and keeping that service out on the roads, and serving the members of this community and all of the other communities in Snohomish County.”

Mukilteo Mayor and Community Transit Board President Joe Marine (fifth from the right) joined Gov. Jay Inslee and other federal and elected officials for the official groundbreaking of the new Swift Orange Line in Lynnwood.

Photo courtesy of Community Transit

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