Home Opener Win Sparks Progress for Eatonville Boys Basketball
By Skip Smith
Eatonville opened its week with a breakthrough moment, picking up its first win of the season Monday night with a 53-38 victory over Tenino in the home opener at Rainier Connect Arena.
The Cruisers set the tone early, pouring in five 3-pointers in the first quarter to build a 22-7 lead. Hiro Masai knocked down two from deep as Eatonville moved the ball well and found clean looks. A 6-0 run to start the second quarter pushed the margin further, and the Cruisers carried a 38-15 lead into halftime behind seven points from Amari Samuel.
Tenino responded after the break, opening the third quarter on an 8-0 run as Eatonville’s defense slipped. The Beavers outscored the Cruisers 17-10 in the period, trimming the lead to 48-32 heading into the fourth.
Jeremy Osborn Jr scored six of his 14 points in the quarter to steady Eatonville. The final eight minutes featured steady back-and-forth scoring as the Cruisers closed out the win.
Samuel finished with 14 points and five rebounds, Osborn Jr added 14 points, and Nash Sherrard led Eatonville on the glass with eight rebounds.
“It was great to get in the win column especially early on in the season - our program was grateful for the opportunity to play an old league opponent,” head coach Josh Bennett said. “7 of our 8 made field goals in the first quarter were assisted on - good things happen when we share the ball and get in the paint.” Bennett also pointed to the second half as a teaching moment. “second half was a good learning experience for us - game is not over until the end - we let them creep back in and tried to do too much - we will learn from that and that experience will be beneficial in the future.”
Less than 24 hours later, Eatonville was back on the road for a rivalry matchup at Orting, where the Cardinals handed the Cruisers a 52-28 loss.
Ball, Baublits take silver to lead Eatonville at Belt Buckle Classic
By Skip Smith
The Eatonville High School girls wrestling team showcased significant improvement on the mats this weekend, securing a sixth-place team finish at the Safeway Belt Buckle Classic held at La Grande Middle School.
Competing against a field of 17 teams, the Cruisers tallied 100.5 points to take sixth overall. The performance marked a substantial jump from the previous year when Eatonville finished 15th out of 20 teams at the same event. Six Eatonville wrestlers earned podium spots by finishing in the top six of their respective weight classes.
Two Cruisers advanced to the championship finals to earn silver medals. At 170 pounds, Makenzie Ball dominated her path to the finals, pinning her first three opponents in the first or second periods. Ball finished the tournament with a 3-1 record, eventually falling to Vale’s Aubrey Maupin in the championship match at the 5:27 mark.
Najalia "Nala" Baublits also claimed a second-place finish in the 105-pound bracket. After receiving byes in the opening rounds, Baublits pinned La Grande’s Elle Edvalson in the semifinals. She lost by fall to Eilie May of La Grande in the final. Baublits’ performance was an improvement over her outing last year when she took fourth place.
In the 110-pound division, Khloee Young battled back to take third place, improving on her fourth-place finish from last season.
Young posted a 4-1 record for the tournament, including a technical fall in the opening round and a swift 45-second pin in the quarterfinals. After a semifinal loss, she rebounded to pin Gemma Merrell of Rocky Mountain in the third-place match.
Taylor Neigel added team points with a fourth-place finish in the 135-pound weight class. Neigel advanced to the semifinals before falling to eventual champion Taylor Ward of Barlow.
Rounding out the placers for Eatonville were Olivia Cole and Emory Simpson, who both secured fifth-place finishes. Cole, wrestling at 100 pounds, fought through the consolation bracket after a quarterfinal loss. She secured two wins in the consolation rounds and took fifth place via forfeit. Simpson, competing at 110 pounds alongside Young, finished her tournament with a victory. After falling in the semifinals, she pinned Madras’ Payton Tackington in 1 minute, 13 seconds to secure fifth place.
Pierce County Library Data Breach Impacts More Than 340,000 People
The Pierce County Library System has confirmed a significant data breach that exposed personal information for more than 340,000 people, making it one of the largest public-sector breaches in recent memory for the South Sound. The breach affects a broad range of individuals, including library patrons, current and former employees, and in some cases employees’ family members whose information was stored as part of benefit or emergency-contact records.
According to the library’s public notice, unauthorized actors gained access to parts of the system’s network during a window between April 15 and April 21 of this year. During that time, files were copied from internal servers before the intrusion was detected. The library began a lengthy forensic review in the weeks that followed to determine exactly what information had been taken and which categories of people were affected. That review concluded in late fall, and notification letters were mailed in early December.
The type of information exposed varies widely. For the majority of patrons, the compromised data appears to be limited to names and dates of birth. While still sensitive, this category does not include library checkout histories or account PINs. The situation is more serious for employees and some household members. Those records, depending on the individual, may include Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, banking or direct-deposit details, passport information, and certain medical or health insurance data that had been provided to the library through standard hiring and benefits processes.
Library officials say there is no evidence at this time that the stolen information has been used for identity theft or fraud, but
they acknowledge the scale of the breach requires a cautious approach. To support those affected, the Pierce County Library System is offering twelve months of complimentary credit monitoring and identityprotection services, along with step-by-step guidance on how to watch for unauthorized activity. Individuals are encouraged to review their credit reports, set up account alerts with their financial institutions, and report any unusual activity immediately. The breach has also raised broader questions about cybersecurity readiness in public institutions.
Eatonville's Jeremy Osborn Jr brings the ball upcourt against Tenino's Devyn Spears in the Cruiser's home opener this past Monday night. Osbourn Jr's 14 points helped lead the Cruisers to their first win of the season.
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Savvy Senior: Tips and Tools for Adapting to Vision Loss
By Jim Miller
Dear Savvy Senior,
Can you recommend some good resources or products that can help seniors with severe vision loss? My wife has diabetic retinopathy, and it’s gotten worse over the past year. —Need Help
Dear Need,
I’m very sorry about your wife’s vision loss, but you’ll be pleased to know that there are many resources and a wide variety of low vision products and technologies that can help with many different needs.
According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), it’s estimated that 12 million Americans ages 40 and older are living with uncorrectable vision loss, which is often caused by age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy. These conditions become more common with age and can make daily tasks like cooking, reading or watching television much harder.
But optometrists who specialize in low vision – reduced vision that can’t be rectified with glasses – have many aids and technologies that can help. Here are a few different low vision products as recommended by Consumer Reports, along with some suggestions for finding a specialist who can help your wife adapt to her vision loss.
MAGNIFIERS AND ADAPTIONS
Once reading glasses are no longer sufficient, there are other devices that can help. These include handheld magnifiers with a light and magnifying domes that can be placed on top of a page.
Telescopes mounted on glasses can work for people who need help seeing farther away. For those who have lost part of their visual field due to a stroke or brain injury, prisms mounted to the lenses in glasses can move an image from an area someone can’t see to the area of their vision where they can. This can help people get around without bumping into obstructions.
HIGH-TECH TOOL
Most smartphones and computers today have built-in accessibility settings that can help your wife by reading aloud text on the screen, making default text sizes larger, and increasing screen contrast. She can also take a photo with her phone of something she wants to see, then boost the brightness, contrast, or zoom. Televisions, too, may have accessibility features you can adjust to make watching easier.
“Phone apps for people with low vision can also be a big help.”
Phone apps for people with low vision can also be a big help. These include magnification apps like SuperVision+ Magnifier and apps such as Seeing AI and Envision AI that can look through your phone’s camera and turn text into speech, describe a scene in front of you, identify objects, or even recognize faces.
There are also handheld or wearable devices like OrCam that can read documents or describe the scene you are looking at.
LOW VISION SPECIALIST
To get some help, find your wife an optometrist who is a low-vision specialist. They can help her figure out how to best use the vision she does have and recommend helpful devices.
There are also vision rehabilitation services that can make a big difference. These services provide counseling, along with training on how to perform daily living tasks with low vision, and how to use visual and adaptive devices that can help improve quality of life. They also offer guidance for adapting your home that will make it safer and easier for your wife to maneuver.
Her regular eye doctor may be able to recommend a low-vision specialist, or you can search the AOA.org website, which lets you filter for specialists in low vision.
To locate rehabilitation services and other low vision resources in your area, call the American Printing House (APH) Connect Center at 800-232-5463.
Driving may no longer be possible, but some people with certain types of low vision can do so safely using a bioptic telescope – a telescopic device attached to glasses – that makes distant objects like road signs visible. And some changes at home can make your space easier (and safer) to navigate, such as putting bright tape on the edges of stairs and getting rid of clutter.
Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION
BY JANE W.
Eatonville Christmas Light Fight Returns with New Map and Community Voting
Eatonville’s annual Christmas Light Fight is back, and this year the town has released a new interactive map to help residents and visitors plan a full holiday-lights tour. The competition features both residential and business displays, with homes and storefronts across Eatonville transforming into festive destinations throughout December.
Participants are required to have their displays completed by December 12, and the community can begin viewing and voting the same day. Voting will remain open through December 28, giving families plenty of time to explore decorated neighborhoods and choose their favorites. Winners will be announced after the voting period closes, with prizes awarded in both business and residential categories.
The updated online map outlines each participating location and allows viewers to
create their own driving or walking route. This year’s entries span well-known streets and include a range of local businesses joining the fun. Among the commercial participants are Mountain Community Co-Op, the Eatonville School District Transportation Department, Enchanted Dragonfly Games, Double T Meats, Shaken Eatonville, and Pour House Grub & Pub. Residential entries are spread throughout town, including areas such as Gracie Lane West, Orchard Avenue, Pennsylvania Avenue, and stretches along Eatonville Highway.
Organizers say the goal is to make the event easy and enjoyable for families who want to experience holiday lights without leaving town. The map provides a simple, self-guided tour option that highlights every entry and encourages visitors to take in all the creativity on display. For many households, the event has become a seasonal tradition and a friendly competition that brings neighbors together.
The Eatonville Business Association encourages residents to vote based on creativity, community spirit, and holiday cheer. Many families make an evening of the event, packing hot cocoa, planning their route, and stopping in town to support local shops and restaurants. Organizers say participation continues to grow each year and expect even more homes to join in seasons ahead.
For now, the lights are glowing, the routes are set, and the voting is about to begin — so bundle up, enjoy the show, and may the brightest house win.
TRICARE Authorizes Temporary Prescription Refill Waivers for Washington Due to Flooding
The Defense Health Agency announced that TRICARE beneficiaries in Washington may receive emergency prescription refills now through Dec. 20, due to flooding.
All counties are affected.
To receive an emergency refill of prescription medications, TRICARE beneficiaries should take their prescription bottle to any TRICARE retail network pharmacy. If the bottle is unavailable or the label is damaged or missing, beneficiaries should contact
Express Scripts, Inc., or their retail network pharmacy for assistance.
To find a network pharmacy, beneficiaries may call Express Scripts at 1-877363-1303, or search the network pharmacy locator.
If possible, visit the pharmacy where the prescription was filled. Prescriptions filled by a retail chain may be filled at another store in that chain. If the clinician who prescribed the medication is available, beneficiaries can ask them to call in a new prescription to any network pharmacy. As a reminder, TRICARE beneficiaries, other than
active duty service members, may receive urgent care from any TRICAREauthorized urgent care center or provider and do not need a referral. This allows beneficiaries to seek nonemergency care for illnesses or injuries if their primary care provider is unavailable because of emergencies. Any TRICARE beneficiary who reasonably believes they have an emergency should always call 911 or, go to the nearest emergency room.
Beneficiaries are advised to visit Express Scripts’ Weather Notices page for updates.
Notes from Eatonville Town Council Meeting 12/08
Staff report
DEPARTMENT REPORT: SERVICE HOLDS STEADY IN NOVEMBER
The Police Department, Water Department, and the Wastewater Treatment Plant reported no major issues, while public works crews focused on seasonal maintenance and storm preparation. Staff reported systems holding up well as winter weather begins to set in.
2026 BUDGET ADOPTED
The Eatonville Town Council approved Ordinance 2025-12, formally adopting the town’s budget for 2026. The budget sets spending limits for each town fund and outlines how Eatonville will pay for core services such as police, streets, parks, water, sewer, electric, stormwater, and refuse. It balances projected revenues with planned expenses while maintaining required reserves and funding ongoing operations. With adoption of the ordinance, the 2026 budget becomes the financial guide for the coming year, directing how town departments operate and plan projects. The full budget will remain available for public review at Town Hall.
COUNCIL ACCEPTS STATE GRANT FOR 2027 STREET SEAL COAT PROJECT
The Eatonville Town Council approved Resolution 2025-XX, accepting a state grant to help fund the town’s 2027 chip seal coat project. The grant, awarded by the Washington State Transportation Improvement Board, provides $218,094, covering nearly 95 percent of the project cost.
The town’s required match is estimated at $11,479, which will be paid using Transportation Benefit District funds. Councilmembers reviewed the grant agreement and authorized Mayor David Baublits to sign the fuel tax agreement on the town’s behalf, allowing the project to move forward as planned.
COUNCIL ACCEPTS STATE GRANT FOR 2027 STREET OVERLAY PROJECT
The Eatonville Town Council approved Resolution 2025-YY, accepting a Washington State Transportation Improvement Board grant to help fund the town’s 2027 street overlay project. The grant totals $676,117 and will cover 95 percent of the project cost.
The town’s required match is estimated at $35,585, which will be paid using Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) funds. Councilmembers reviewed the grant agreement and authorized Mayor David Baublits to sign the fuel tax agreement, allowing the project to move forward as planned.
COUNCIL APPROVES VEHICLE CAMERA SYSTEM FOR POLICE FLEET
The Eatonville Town Council approved Resolution 2025-ZZ, authorizing the mayor to enter into a contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for the purchase and installation of in-car camera systems for the Eatonville Police Department.
The new vehicle cameras will record both the interior and exterior of police vehicles, addressing situations not always captured by body-worn cameras. Town officials said the added coverage is intended to improve transparency and reduce liability.
The agreement uses Axon’s 2025 pricing and covers equipment, software, storage, and related services over a five-year period. The mayor is authorized to execute the contract on the town’s behalf, pending finance committee approval.
COUNCIL APPROVES BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION SERVICES FOR POLICE HIRING
The Eatonville Town Council approved Resolution 2025-AAA, authorizing the mayor to sign an updated background investigation agreement with National Testing Network for police hiring.
The agreement allows the town to use National Testing Network’s subcontracted investigators to
conduct required background checks for police officer and dispatcher candidates. Town officials noted the Police Department does not have sufficient staffing to complete the full investigations internally and anticipates several retirements in 2026.
The updated agreement reflects current pricing and ensures the town can continue hiring qualified public safety staff as needed.
VACANCY ON THE TOWN COUNCIL
The Town of Eatonville is inviting interested residents to apply to fill a vacancy on the Eatonville Town Council.
To qualify for the appointment, applicants must be 18 years old, a citizen of the United States, a resident of Washington and the Town of Eatonville and be registered to vote in the Town of Eatonville at the time of appointment. It is anticipated that the appointment will be made at the January 12, 2026 Town Council Meeting. The appointment will be through the certification of the next general election, December 31, 2027.
Interested residents must submit a completed Application for Appointment to the Town of Eatonville at 201 Center St W, Eatonville, WA 98328. Application for Appointment can be found at https://eatonville-wa.gov/forms-publications/.
In order to be considered for the appointment, Applications for Appointment are due to the Town of Eatonville by 1:00pm on January 6, 2026.
VACANCY ON THE TOWN OF EATONVILLE POLICE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
The Town of Eatonville is seeking applications from interested residents to fill a vacancy on the Police Civil Service Commission. Persons appointed to the Commission shall serve without compensation. No person shall be appointed a member of such commission who is not a citizen of the United States, a resident of the Town for at least three years immediately preceding such appointment, and an elector of the county wherein they resides. The term of office of the members of the Commission shall be for six years. Please see the Eatonville Municipal Code for additional information on the Police Civil Service Commission, https:// ecode360.com/46528858#46528858.
Those interested must complete an Application for Appointment that is available at Town Hall, 201 Center St W, Eatonville, WA 98328 or on our website https://eatonville-wa.gov/forms-publications/. Applications may be emailed to townclerk@eatonville-wa. gov.
Submitted
Cruiser Boys Take Ninth at Muilenburg Tournament, Rogers Leads with Second Place Finish
By Skip Smith
The Eatonville High School boys wrestling team secured a ninth place finish among 15 competing schools at the Muilenburg Tournament, held Friday and Saturday at La Grande High School. The Cruisers were powered by strong individual performances, notably a second place finish by heavyweight Ethan Rogers.
Rogers, competing at 215 pounds, was Eatonville's highest placer. He earned a spot in the final round after dominating his opponents with three straight wins by fall, including a pin over Jake Meeuwsen of Scappoose in the semifinal round. Rogers’ run came to an end in the championship match, where he was defeated by fall against Dex Dunlap of La Grande, earning him second place and 24 team points.
Eatonville placed three other wrestlers in the top six. Jarin Ragazzo finished fourth in the 190-pound bracket, tallying 15 team points. Ragazzo started strong with a pin and later advanced through the consolation bracket with another fall and a decision win over Harrison Spens of Estacada before falling in the third place match to Wyatt Cox of Vale by tech fall.
At 144 pounds, Aiden Hughey earned a sixth place finish for the Cruisers, adding 10 team points to the overall score. Hughey won his second round bout by fall and later picked up a decision win in the consolation rounds. His tournament ended early due to injury defaults in the consolation fourth round and the fifth place match, resulting in the sixth place spot.
Mason Kinley, also competing at 215 pounds, contributed 11 points to the team total, finishing sixth. Kinley won his first two matches by fall, advancing him to the semifinal round where he was defeated by Dunlap. He dropped the consolation third round match and the fifth place match, landing him in sixth.
Other Cruiser wrestlers also earned valuable wins for the team, though they did not reach the top six. Teagan Croppi finished just outside of placement at 126 pounds, going 3-2 on the weekend with a major decision and a decision win in the consolation bracket before being defeated in the Consolation 1st round. Davin Goodenough at 132 pounds also went 3-2, with two wins by fall and a decision, and Karson Rhinehart at 138 pounds went 2-2 with two falls.
Lady Cruisers Earn First Win Under Caramandi
By Skip Smith
Eatonville picked up its first win of the season Friday night, holding off Foss 45-43 in Tacoma to close a busy and emotional week for the Lady Cruisers.
The victory marked the first career win for first-year head coach Chelsea Caramandi and came after three tight contests in five days.
Foss jumped out early with an 8-2 run, putting Eatonville in a hole before the Cruisers settled in. Eatonville trailed 13-10 after one quarter but tied the game midway through the second on a Morgan Laird jumper. A Josie Lavergne basket gave Eatonville the lead moments later, and the Cruisers carried a 19-15 advantage into halftime.
Eatonville took control in the third quarter, outscoring the Falcons 14-6 to stretch the lead to 33-21. Both offenses slowed in the fourth, with Foss trimming the margin to 45-43, but the Cruisers held on to secure the win.
Lavergne recorded the first double-double of the season for Eatonville with 13 points and 14 rebounds. Jordyn Green added 10 points and eight rebounds.
“This win felt overdue, and the girls earned it. It was a physical, emotional game, and while we're still working on slowing the game down, the composure we’ve been emphasizing in practice showed. I’m so proud of these girls!” Caramandi said. When asked about her first career victory, she added, “The win was very rewarding and motivating to the team”.
Earlier in the week, Eatonville dropped a pair of close games, starting Monday on the road against Centralia of the 2A Evergreen League.
The Tigers opened with a 7-0 run, but Eatonville responded to trail just 12-9 after one quarter. Centralia maintained a slim edge through the second, taking a 21-18 lead into halftime.
A 6-0 run to start the third quarter gave the Cruisers their first lead at 24-21, but Centralia reclaimed the advantage and led 30-28 entering the fourth. Eatonville surged ahead with an 11-0 run early in the final period, building a 36-33 lead with just over three minutes remaining.
Centralia tied the game with 1:24 left, but Eatonville answered on a Morgan Laird layup. A late 3-pointer and free throw from the Tigers proved decisive, sealing a 45-43 Centralia win. Laird led Eatonville with 14 points and seven rebounds. Miley King added eight points and 13 rebounds.
The Cruisers were back on the floor Tuesday night at home against rival Orting.
Eatonville raced out to a 13-0 start and led 19-5 after one quarter. Orting chipped away in the second, cutting the lead to 23-13 at halftime.
Eatonville struggled offensively in the third, scoring just four points as Orting pulled within one, 27-26, heading into the fourth. The teams traded baskets down the stretch, with Orting outscoring Eatonville 13-10 in the final period to earn a 39-17 victory.
King finished with 12 points and six rebounds, while Josie Lavergne had nine points and 12 rebounds.
Wednesday’s game against W.F. West was canceled due to flooding in the Chehalis area.
Reflecting on the early losses, Caramandi said, “The last two games have come down to just a couple of points, and while the results hurt, the growth has been incredible. We battled hard against Centralia and came out strong against Orting, and the improvement in less than a week have been huge. It’s been all hands on deck — our bench has been locked in and supportive, and that energy matters. We’ve already been in two late-game pressure situations, and those are valuable reps. The effort is there; now it’s about learning how to finish games.” Eatonville returns home this week, hosting Washington on Wednesday, Dec. 17, and Steilacoom on Friday, Dec. 19. Both games are scheduled for 7 p.m.
Eatonville's podium finishers pose while holding up what place they received at the Muilenburg Tournament this past weekend in La Grande, OR. From L to R: Aiden Hughey 6th place, Ethan Rogers 2nd place, Mason Kinley 6th place, and Jarin Ragazzo 4th place.
HEATHER
QUIRIE
Eatonville's Josie Lavergne gets into position for one of her game-high 14 rebounds in the Cruisers first win of the season. Lavergne would add 13 points to go along with those rebounds.
Orting opened the game on an 8-0 run and led 17-7 after one quarter as Eatonville struggled to get into an offensive rhythm. The Cruisers showed signs of life early in the second, using an 8-2 run to cut the deficit to 19-15, but Orting answered with another 8-0 surge and took a 27-17 lead into halftime.
The Cardinals continued to control the game in the third quarter, outscoring Eatonville 13-6 to stretch the lead to 40-23. The Cruisers managed just five points in the fourth as Orting closed out the win. Orting dominated the rebounding battle 45-25, a decisive factor throughout the night.
Osborn Jr led Eatonville with eight points, while Jake Brannon added seven points and three rebounds.
“It’s tough when you come out flat. We got destroyed in the rebounding battle. We have still been stressing the importance of it and will continue to clean it up. Orting’s size was an issue for us. They were the more physical team,” Bennett said.
Eatonville returned to action Friday against Foss and again found itself playing from behind. The Falcons jumped out to a 12-0 start and led 20-8 after the first quarter. Foss’s defense held the Cruisers to just three points in the second, a lone Osborn Jr 3-pointer, as the Falcons took a 33-11 lead into halftime.
The Cruisers showed improved energy coming out of the break. Brannon scored five points in the third quarter as Eatonville put up 11, but Foss maintained control and led 46-22 entering the fourth. Eatonville saved its best offensive stretch for the final period, outscoring the Falcons 16-9 behind Ryder Herbrand and Samuel Twedt. Herbrand scored six points and grabbed five rebounds, while Twedt added five points and five boards. Foss held on for a 55-39 win.
Osborn Jr led Eatonville with eight points and five rebounds. Herbrand finished with six points and 11 rebounds, Samuel had six points and three rebounds, and Twedt chipped in five points.
“We came out super flat again - hard to be down that much at the end of a quarter,” Bennett said. “I love how we responded in the second half - we cut off driving lanes and made it much tougher for them to score. We also ran some offense and worked the shot clock - we look pretty good when we are doing that.”
The Cruisers wrapped up the week Saturday in Seattle against The Northwest School, falling 63-56 in a nonleague contest but posting their highest point total of the season.
Eatonville struggled out of the gate for the third straight game, scoring just five points in the opening quarter and trailing 17-5. The offense picked up in the second behind Amari Samuel, who scored 10 points as the
Cruisers kept pace but still trailed 39-26 at halftime.
Samuel stayed hot in the third, scoring eight more points as Eatonville outscored Northwest 13-9 and cut the deficit to 48-39. In the fourth, Samuel added seven more to finish with a season-high 25 points. Eatonville briefly took the lead late, but Northwest responded down the stretch to secure the win.
Samuel finished with 25 points and four rebounds, while Herbrand added 10 points and eight rebounds.
“This was our 3rd game in a row we came out flat and make it tougher on ourselves from the jump,” Bennett said. “Our group was very resilient this game. I felt this was the most connected our team has been all season. We fought back from down 14 after the 1st and took the lead in the fourth quarter with 3 minutes to go.”
Despite a 1-3 week, Bennett emphasized the progress made through a demanding stretch.
“4 games in 6 days is a lot for any ball club at the high school level. Our group made some great strides this week and I am grateful for the journey we are on and look forward to some more league play next week,” he said.
Eatonville stays on the road this week, traveling to Tacoma on Tuesday, Dec. 16, to face the Washington Patriots before finishing the week Friday, Dec. 19, at Steilacoom against the Sentinels. Both games tip off at 7 p.m.
Pierce County Approves Bonus Program to Boost Sheriff’s Office Recruitment and Retention
Pierce County leaders have approved a new incentive package aimed at strengthening staffing levels within the Sheriff’s Department, committing up to $1.5 million in hiring and retention bonuses over the next year.
County officials say the move responds to ongoing challenges in law enforcement hiring across Washington state, where agencies continue to compete for a smaller pool of qualified applicants. The Sheriff’s Department has reported
DATA BREACH
From page 1
In the wake of the incident, the library says it has strengthened internal safeguards, updated certain systems, and is continuing to work with security professionals to identify longer-term improvements. Library leaders say they are committed to rebuilding trust with patrons and employees and plan to provide updates as additional security measures are implemented.
Several civil lawsuits have already been filed on behalf of affected individuals, alleging that the library did not adequately protect sensitive information and did not notify people quickly enough once the breach was confirmed. Those cases are expected to unfold in the coming months.
Residents who receive a notification letter are urged to read it carefully, enroll in the offered protection services, and monitor their personal information closely. The library has posted additional resources on its website for anyone seeking guidance on next steps.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF AFTER A DATA BREACH
For anyone who received a notification from the Pierce County Library System, taking a few precautionary steps can greatly reduce the risk of identity theft or fraud in the months ahead. Even if you are unsure whether your information was among the most sensitive files exposed, these actions provide solid protection.
1. Enroll in the free credit monitoring.
The library is offering twelve months of complimentary credit-monitoring and identity-protection services. Signing up ensures you receive alerts if new accounts are opened in your name or if unusual activity appears.
2. Check your credit reports.
You can access your credit reports for free. Look for unfamiliar accounts, incorrect addresses, or inquiries you did not authorize. If anything looks off, report it immediately to the credit bureau and your financial institution.
3. Set up account alerts.
Most banks and credit unions allow customers to receive text or app notifications
Odifficulty filling vacancies in recent years, citing retirements, lateral transfers to higher-paying jurisdictions, and increased competition from cities offering aggressive incentives.
Under the approved program, new deputies who meet county hiring standards may qualify for recruitment bonuses, while current deputies could receive retention payments tied to continued service. Exact amounts will vary based on experience and assignment, and the bonuses will be funded through existing county allocations for public safety staffing.
County Councilmembers said the incentive package is intended to support both public safety and workforce stability. Several emphasized that fully staffing the department remains a priority, particularly as the region faces rising response-time pressures in rural and suburban areas.
Sheriff’s Office leadership welcomed the vote, noting that incentives have become an increasingly standard tool for law enforcement agencies trying to remain competitive. They say that while bonuses alone will not solve long-term hiring challenges, the funding provides an immediate boost for efforts to attract applicants and retain trained deputies.
The county will monitor the program’s effectiveness through quarterly staffing updates. Officials said they expect to advertise the incentives broadly and engage with potential applicants throughout 2026.
Residents seeking more information about law enforcement careers can visit the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office recruitment page or attend an upcoming informational session, which the department hosts periodically throughout the year.
for purchases, withdrawals, or login attempts. Enabling these alerts can help you spot suspicious activity quickly.
4. Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze.
A fraud alert tells lenders to take extra steps to verify your identity before approving new credit. A credit freeze is more restrictive and prevents new accounts from being opened entirely until you lift it.
5. Be skeptical of unsolicited calls or emails.
Data breaches often lead to phishing attempts. Avoid clicking links or sharing personal information unless you initiated the contact yourself and can verify who you’re speaking with.
“For anyone who received a notification from the Pierce County Library System, taking a few precautionary steps can greatly reduce the risk of identity theft or fraud in the months ahead.”
6. Monitor your household’s information.
Because some employee family members were included in the affected files, parents should also check credit reports for minors. Children should not have active credit histories, so any activity under their name may indicate fraud.
7. Keep an eye on insurance and medical statements.
For individuals whose health or insurance information may have been involved, review explanation-of-benefits statements and medical billing for treatments you did not receive.
Staying alert over the next several months is the best way to minimize potential harm. If unusual activity appears on any account, report it immediately and follow your bank’s instructions for securing your information.
n November 18, 2025, Marjorie Ann Clark (nee Jensen) passed away peacefully at the age of 92 from natural causes. Marjorie was born in Tacoma, WA, went to Stadium High School and University of Puget Sound, and was a member of Pi Beta Phi Sorority. She worked at Tacoma General Hospital. She was an active member of Mineral Presbyterian Church and believed Jesus is her Savior.
Marge had a kind heart, was thoughtful and always remembered people’s birthdays. Her family and friends were so important to her and she loved chatting and visiting with them. Talking to and spending time with her precious grandkids and great grandkids always put a smile on her face. She enjoyed growing flowers, sitting in the sun and going to any salt water beach. She was especially fond of cats, and she and her husband Wayne “adopted” many
strays over the years. Snuggling with her cat Kitty was a special part of her daily routine later in her life.
She is preceded in death by her husband Wayne, and is survived by daughters Jill Clark, Sandra Jarrell, Karen Schmit (Robert), Margaret Lane and son
Clark (Jennifer); and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who all will miss her tremendously.
A memorial will be held next Spring. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Washington Talking Book And Braille Library. www.wtbbl.org
Mike
Marjorie Ann Clark
Pierce County Opens 2026 Art Grant Program for Local Nonprofits
Pierce County has opened applications for its 2026 Art Grant program, inviting nonprofit organizations across the county to apply for funding that expands access to the arts in unincorporated communities. The program, which opened Tuesday, December 2, is designed to uplift neighborhoods outside Tacoma city limits by supporting organizations that bring creative programming directly to residents who may have limited access to arts education and cultural experiences. The annual grant program funds projects that take place between January 1 and December 31, 2026. Awards range from 500 to 5,000 dollars, and applications must be submitted online by 2 p.m. on January 21, 2026. While the funding amounts are modest, they are specifically intended to bolster small and mid-sized nonprofits whose work often reaches deep into rural and suburban communities where transportation barriers, long distances, or household income constraints can limit opportunities for creative engagement.
Since its launch in 1986, the Pierce County Arts Commission’s Art Grant program has played a steady role in supporting the county’s cultural landscape. Over nearly four decades, the program has helped sustain youth art classes, after-school theater programs, community choirs, local mural projects, photography workshops, and cultural celebrations honoring the county’s diverse communities. These projects often take place in schools, libraries, community centers, churches, and small gathering spaces that serve as vital hubs for local residents.
Recent program data underscores its impact. In 2024 alone, 22,000 dollars in grants funded seven projects that reached more than 11,300 participants and provided an estimated 30,000 hours of hands-on creative activity. For many families, these projects provided the only affordable arts opportunities available in their immediate area. For nonprofit organizations, the grants offered a chance to expand programming, pilot new ideas, and deepen partnerships with local educators, tribal entities, and community groups.
County leaders emphasize that the 2026 grant cycle continues the longstanding mission of strengthening Pierce County’s creative ecosystem from the ground up. By focusing on unincorporated areas, the program helps ensure that the arts remain accessible not only in major cultural centers, but in the small towns and neighborhoods that make up much of the county’s geography.
Nonprofit organizations interested in applying can review program guidelines and submit applications through the county’s online grant portal before the January 21 deadline. The county encourages applicants to present projects that increase participation, foster cultural connection, and bring meaningful arts experiences directly into the communities they serve.
festive fudge
(Makes approximately 25 squares)
Ingredients:
3 cups semisweet or dark chocolate chips
14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
Optional Mix-Ins:
chopped nuts (about 1/2 cup)
Vanilla, almond or peppermint extract (about 1 teaspoon)
dried coconut shreds
mini marshmallows
sea salt
chopped dried fruit
sprinkles
candy or candy cane pieces
Directions:
Coat an 8-inch square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Lining the pan with parchment paper will make it easier to remove the fudge from the pan once it is set.
Pierce County Announces How to Report Property Damages Associated with Atmospheric River Event
Pierce County continues to respond to the impacts of an atmospheric river that brought widespread flooding, high winds, and hazardous conditions across the region this week. County officials are asking residents, businesses, and public agencies affected by the severe weather to report any damage as part of ongoing response and recovery efforts.
Damage reporting plays a critical role in helping Pierce County understand the full scope of the storm’s impact. Submitted reports allow emergency management staff to identify community needs, prioritize recovery actions, and determine whether the county meets the thresholds required to request state or federal disaster assistance. In many cases, documented damage is a necessary first step before outside financial support can be considered.
Pierce County has created a centralized webpage where damage can be reported and recovery resources can be accessed at www.piercecountywa.gov/reportdamage.
Residents are encouraged to report damage to homes or personal property, especially if losses are not covered by insurance.
DRemove the fudge mixture from heat and stir in any desired mix-ins.
Pour the fudge into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Melt the chocolate chips, condensed milk and butter over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth.
Refrigerate until the fudge is set (about 2 to 3 hours).
Cut into squares and enjoy, or store in an airtight container for up to two weeks. You can also store fudge in the freezer for up to two months.
onna was born Dec. 10th, 1944, to Hannah and Edward Raysbrook; and grew up in Eatonville and graduated from Eatonville HS in 1963.
After high school, she went to work at Mt. Rainier National Park at the age of 20 and retired in June 2015, after 50+ years of service. If you ask anyone at Mt. Rainier and possibly throughout the Department of Interior; Donna was known as Mother Mountain.
Donna was involved with the local Christmas bazaar that raised money for Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital for many years and the “old timers” luncheon at Mt. Rainier for all prior park employees. If there was any social function at the park, you could always count on Donna to be involved with the planning, decorating and taking part.
Spending time with her grandkids was a true joy; many trips to the Chateau Westport, breakfast at Tall Timbers, taking them swimming at her best friend’s home, girl trips to new locations, and of course shopping!
The site also provides information about potential disaster assistance programs that may become available as assessments continue. Local businesses are asked to report storm-related losses so the county can evaluate economic impacts and support eligibility for state or federal recovery aid. Public entities can find information about FEMA Public Assistance, which may include reimbursement for debris removal, emergency protective actions, infrastructure repairs, and mitigation efforts. Pierce County Emergency Management will review all submitted information to build a comprehensive picture of storm damage across communities and to advocate for additional recovery resources if needed. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and officials urge community members to continue monitoring local alerts. Residents should follow safety guidance, evacuation notices, and road closure updates, and report damage as soon as it is safe to do so. For preparedness tips, emergency updates, and recovery information, visit www. piercecountywa.gov/ready and consider signing up for PCALERT emergency notifications to receive timely alerts.
Donna A Rahier
Dec. 10, 1944-Nov. 27, 2025
After retirement, she joined the Dogwood garden club, enjoyed trips to the casino, and trips to town to shop for the next party that was being planned. She truly enjoyed spending time with family and friends.
Donna passed away Nov 27th, 2025, peacefully in her sleep. She will be deeply missed by family and so many friends.
“The mountains are calling and I must go” — John Muir
A Celebration of Life is planned for Jan 17th, 2026, at Noon –Eatonville Eagles
~Lunch will be provided~ In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Mt. Rainier National Park in her honor.
Website: https://wnpf.org and select Mt. Rainier
By Check:
Superintendent Attn: Donations
Mount Rainier National Park 55210 238th Avenue East Ashford, WA 98304
