INSIDE | Tribute to my father | Robert Whale [5]
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Sports | Sweet decision: Lions volleyball coach Momi Bowles steps down to pursue her passion for candy [9]
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Library renovation on schedule Temporary home doing the job as project goes on BY SHAWN SKAGER sskager@auburn-reporter.com
It’s been more than six months since the Auburn Library closed its doors for renovation. And with six months left before the
new space opens in August, library staff is eager to move out of their temporary space. “We’re a little squished right now, but otherwise the patrons have been flexible, patient and pretty darn cooperative. The staff are troopers,” said Carla Hopkins, who manages the Auburn, Muckleshoot and Algona-Pacific
Construction continues at the Auburn Library. The renovated, larger library is expected to open later this year. CHARLES CORTES,
Library cluster for the King County Library System. Since the beginning of June, the Auburn Library has operated in a temporary space across the parking lot from the established library in the old Herr Cabinets building at 1140 Auburn Way S. Although the temporary space [ more LIBRARY page 7 ]
PERSON OF THE YEAR
Auburn Reporter
Brugger named first poet laureate BY MARK KLAAS mklaas@auburn-reporter.com
All in the ‘Y’ family: Amy Jahn and the Auburn Valley Y’s staff have reached out to touch the lives of many youths in the Auburn area with their wide spectrum of programs. Jahn’s hard work has helped bring a positive influence to many families and children, according to her colleagues. MARK KLAAS, Auburn Reporter
MAKING A DIFFERENCE Jahn pulls people, resources together to serve community BY MARK KLAAS mklaas@auburn-reporter.com
Outgoing and fun, Amy Jahn is busy on the run. It’s just her nature. A typical day means connecting people, sharing ideas and offering opportunities for people, young
and old, from all walks. It is her purpose in life, as she best understands it, to bring people and businesses together for the betterment of community. She has become a leader, a warm personality who is willing to extend a gentle hand and encourage others, especially the underprivileged. She makes the most of each day, any given circumstance. “Bloom where you’re planted,” Jahn said of her mantra in life. “Have fun with what you do and
with what passion you might have.” For Jahn, a resourceful spoke in the local goodwill and commerce wheel, it means making a difference as a community outreach specialist and business facilitator at the Auburn Valley Y. For her exemplary efforts, the Auburn Reporter has named Jahn its Person of the Year for 2011. “I really enjoy working with people,” said Jahn, who has been a [ more JAHN page 4 ]
Recognized for his many accomplishments in the Auburn community, Dick Brugger also is known for his other exclusive works. Like poetry and writing. Brugger’s special way with words earned him another honor Tuesday – selection as the first poet Brugger laureate for the city of Auburn. Brugger’s group, the Striped Water Poets, nominated the man, and the City Council confirmed his appointment at its regular meeting. “I couldn’t believe it. I’m elated,” said the 82-yearold Brugger, the influential founder and former inspi-
Kalimba brings upbeat sound of Earth, Wind & Fire BY SHAWN SKAGER sskager@auburn-reporter.com
Good live music can move the body. A driving beat, an infectious bass line and a bit of melody are usually all that it takes to get an audience out of their seats and onto the dance floor. Great music, however, sparks more than a physical
rational leader of Auburn Youth Resources. “I am deeply honored, and thank all of you for your support. “I hope I do a good job. I hope I increase the love for poetry, the spoken word … I’m deeply appreciative.” The City Council created Auburn’s first honorary position of poet laureate last year. The idea of having a designated poet laureate was initially proposed from a community member and readily embraced by the Auburn Arts Commission. “By creating this honorary position,” said Arts Commissioner Linda Elliott, “we are [ more BRUGGER page 4 ]
reaction. Great music moves the soul. For Chazz Smith, founder and co-lead vocalist for tribute band Kalimba, the music of Earth, Wind & Fire provides that spark. Beginning Jan. 12 and running every other Thursday, that spark ignites at the Muckleshoot Casino’s Club Galaxy courtesy of Kalimba. For more than 40 years Earth, Wind & Fire has made great music, notching album sales of more than [ more KALIMBA page 12 ]