Snovalleystar102413

Your locally-owned newspaper, serving North Bend and Snoqualmie, Washington

October 24, 2013 VOL. 5, NO. 42

Here comes the flood Follow these tips to prepare for winter flooding.

Page 2

Mount Si can’t bring down Bellevue Page 12

Voters to decide on parks levy

Scary good fun

By Sam Kenyon

Halloween happenings in the Valley.

Page 3

Voters will have to decide whether to renew the majority of Si View Metro Parks funding in the upcoming General Election. Proposition 1, which provides 52 percent of the operations and management budget for the Si View Community Center, pool, parks, playgrounds, playfields and activities, would not increase taxes.

The levy is a continuation of a similar levy passed by voters in 2011 and 2012.

At stake is more than half the operations and management budget for the Si View Community Center and programs such as the farmer’s market, family nights, summer concerts and the haunted house.

If Proposition 1 doesn’t pass, Si View Parks would also face cuts in staff and hours which would reduce the programs and activities they are able to provide.

“Proposition 1 really just makes us whole,” said Travis Stombaugh, Executive Director of Si View Parks. “We’re not asking for more money, we’re just asking to keep ourselves whole.”

For the last six years, Si View Parks has received an AA rating from Standard and Poor’s.

“We’ve been really smart with the money,” Stombaugh said.

“We’re very conscious of the public’s money.”

For the measure to pass and Si View Parks to maintain their current level of service, Proposition 1 needs more than just a simple majority. The yes vote must include one of the two following scenarios.

1) It must be approved by at least 60 percent of voters and voter turnout must be at least 40 percent of the turnout in the last general election.

2) If turnout is less than 40 percent of the turnout in the last general election, the number of “yes” votes must be greater than 24 percent of that turnout.

“Proposition 1 is one of those items on the ballot that may be forgotten or overlooked since it

Pets need to eat Pet food bank needs help.

Page 5

Candidate Q&A See what people running for office have to say.

Page 6 and 7

Police blotter Page 8

Team leader Nick Mitchell is ready for final homecoming.

Page 12

Prsrt Std U.S. Postage PAID Kent, WA Permit No. 71 POSTAL CUSTOMER

See PARKS, Page 2

A still moment at Rattlesnake Lake

By Frank Cranney

Dusty, the beloved canine belonging to Frank and Jeri Cranney, enjoyed a recent trip to Rattlesnake Lake.

‘The Voice’ of the Snoqualmie Valley

By Dan Aznoff

File

Former North Bend resident Austin Jenckes has dreamed of delivering his musical message of encouragement since the day his father placed a guitar in his hands. He was 8 years old at the time.

His vision of becoming an inspiration for an entire generation may come true this fall in front of a national television audience as a finalist on the reality television show, “The Voice.”

The singer-songwriter has made his way to prime time by creating his own style of musical anthems that blend classic rock and healthy doses of country with just a hint of jazz.

Austin Jenckes performs at a show in Seattle in 2011.

See VOICE, Page 3

Volunteers prepare for annual holiday bazaar

By Sherry Grindeland Age has thinned their ranks, but the remaining members of the Snoqualmie Valley Hospital Auxiliary make up for numbers with their talents and enthusiasm.

Particularly when it comes to baked goods, said John McLean.

He’s the secretary of the nonprofit group that raises money for the hospital, funds scholarships to buy toys for needy children and helps support the Mt. Si Food Bank.

The group funds these projects with proceeds from a plant sale in the spring and the Annual Snoqualmie Valley Hospital Auxiliary’s Holiday Bazaar. This year’s bazaar will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Oct. 26 at the Mt. Si Senior Center, 411 Main Ave. S., North Bend.

“These are a bunch of old ladies with glue guns,” McLean said. “But they are fantastic women.”

The crafts part of the bazaar will feature Halloween,

Thanksgiving and Christmas items. There will also be a white elephant sale table and a raffle.

People around the Valley look forward to the annual event and line up outside to wait for the opening, McLean said. He thinks the early arrivals know a good thing – the members are great cooks and bakers.

The bake sale part of the bazaar is a crowd favorite.

“My mother, who is a member, makes incredible pies,” he See BAZAAR, Page 2

SnoValley Star

PAGE 2

OCTOBER 24, 2013

Parks

Flood season is coming: Are you prepared?

Members of King County Sheriff’s office and King County Department of Emergency Management participated in a sandbagging event Oct. 21 in preparation for flood season. “Take Winter

by Storm” was an exercise for emergency responders.

King County Sheriff John Urquhart, who

Bazaar From Page 1 said. “I always argue with my mom because I think their prices are too darned low on what they sell.”

The Auxiliary was founded in 1983 and has traditionally been a female organization. McLean is the first male member.

Curiosity enticed him to attend a meeting last year with his mother, Mae McLean. She has been involved with the group since it started. John was not only welcomed with open arms, he was immediately voted in as secretary.

emceed the event, said that flooding is the most common and costly weather-related disaster in western Washington.

King County, alone, has experienced 12 federally declared flood disasters since 1990.

“Flooding can occur See FLOOD, Page 5 “By joining, I reduced the average age of the group to 88,” said John McLean, who graduated from Mount Si High School in 1967.

Mae McLean hopes John’s presence will encourage other women and men to join the group.

“We have fun,” she said. “We’re not real formal at our meetings.

We’ve been trying to get some younger women to join, but John’s the first man to have the courage to become a member.”

She’s been a longtime Valley resident. Her husband, who worked for the power company, was transferred to Snoqualmie in 1951. Mae stayed in

From Page 1

Contributed

Emergency crews from Western Washington practiced filling and stacking sandbags earlier this week in Pacific.

Seattle to sell the house and moved up a short time later.

“The first time I saw Snoqualmie, I cried,” she said. “It was small and all the buildings were on one side of the street. But it didn’t take long before I loved the town. It has been a wonderful place to live. I would not go back to Seattle or Issaquah or Bellevue.”

Her adult children recognized that and John moved home with her to help with home repairs and to keep an eye on her.

At 93, she said she can’t do as many things as she used to.

Mae recounted the history of the auxiliary.

In the early years, she

remembers raising money to buy things for the hospital such as wheelchairs, a resuscitation mannequin, therapy equipment, a microwave oven, and outdoor park benches for visitors.

The auxiliary was one of the first in the area to offer something called Care Line, a help line for seniors who lived alone.

“We continued that Care Line when the hospital shut down in 1992,” she said. “Over the years, we’ve donated money for different things.”

She said that the group gives an annual $1,000 scholarship to a Mount Si graduate going into the medical field.

The members would

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love to see that continue and hope having John will inspire other people to join the group.

“We’re all a bunch of elderly ladies,” Mae said.

“We need some younger people in our group. Our meetings are fun.”

The group meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Thursday of the month in a meeting room at the hospital.

“We always have dessert,” Mae said. “Good desserts, too.”

John McLean agreed the meetings are fun because the women are so interesting and energetic.

For more information, call the McLeans at 425888-2101 or email snovalleyhospitalauxiliary@ gmail.com.

typically happens to be on the backside of the ballot,” said Minna Rudd, the recreation coordinator for Si View Parks.

Current levels of funding equate to $1.02 million, or 53 cents per $1,000 assessed value. 28 of those cents are at stake in Proposition 1. The levy must be renewed annually. Twenty-five of those cents were protected for several years by voters in 2011. This would be the sole operating budget if the levy doesn’t pass.

The dollar amount of Proposition 1 is around $540,000, or 52 percent of the Si View operations funding. Without the Proposition 1 levy, Si View’s funding would be reduced to $481,872, or 48 percent of current levels.

The staff at Si View hopes the levy passes so they can continue to provide the same quality of service they’re doing now.

“I just think that we’re very good stewards with property tax revenue,” Stombaugh said. “We’re not trying to raise it, we’re just trying to do the most we can with what we have.

Sam Kenyon can be reached at sam.kenyon@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter @samuel_kenyon.

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OCTOBER 24, 2013

Voice Scare up some fun on Halloween From Page 1

With Halloween happening on a school night, local groups are offering early parties and trick-or-treating events for children and adults. Like candy corn, enjoy more than one!

Oct. 25 The All Monster Band – or Ramshackle with Professor Fred and his sidekick, Igor, kick off the scary fun at 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 25 at The Black Dog, 8062 Railroad Ave., Snoqualmie.

Admission is free (although tips are appreciated). Stick around after the mini-concert for some trivia contests, candy, and jokes before the 1954 sci-fi classic “Killers from Space” starring Peter Graves. Have a blast at this free show full of wacky Halloween fun and classic sci-fi cinema.

Oct. 26 Ride the rails - You drive by the trains all the time but when was the last time you actually rode on one? Get a ticket discount for wearing a costume on the Northwest Railway Museum Halloween Train. It departs from Snoqualmie station, 38625 S.E. King St., at 11:01 a.m., 12:31 p.m., 2:01 p.m., 3:31 p.m., and 4:16 p.m.; departs from North Bend at 11:31 a.m., 1:01 p.m., 2:31 p.m. and 4:01 p.m., $15/adults, $12/seniors, $10/children, $2 discount for wearing costumes.

Trick or Treat on Snoqualmie Ridge, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., start at Sno Falls Credit See HALLOWEEN, Page 8

“My music has always been about the message,” Jenckes told the SnoValley Star. “My songs are written to be uplifting and heartfelt. Because nobody wants to sit through an hour of being forced to listen to sad songs.”

The Cedarcrest High School grad has always wanted to write and perform songs that “move your soul and get you stoked when you’re on the way to work in the morning.”

The journey to center stage began almost a year ago when Jenckes was one of 300,000 singers around the country to display their vocal talents at open auditions for “The Voice.” Joyce Buck said her son was chosen as one of the 148 contestants invited to perform for the producers from Warner Brothers in Los Angeles. His talent and showmanship earned him a place in the group of only four dozen singers to sing on the pre-recorded shows in front of the celebrity judges and a live audience.

“We’re just so proud that Austin was one of the singers invited to Los Angeles,” his mother said with pride. “That fact he has made it to the Top 48 is just proof that other people see the talent that I’ve seen in my son for his entire life.”

Two of the celebrity judges on “The Voice” offered Jenckes the opportunity to work with them individually to prepare for the final round of the made-fortelevision talent show. Jenckes had his option of working with rapper and record producer Cee Lo Green or country singer Blake Shelton, who coincidently happened to be the coach of three of the past four winners of the competition.

“I’m stoked to be on Blake’s team,” he said.

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The tunes written by the 25-year-old vocalist are an original mixture of influences from the classic melodies of bands like The Eagles as well as the emotions he has channeled from Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band. In addition to the time-tested songs he grew up with, Jenckes also admits a personal fondness to the darker side of grunge music performed by Chris Cornel from Soundgarden and bands like Alice in Chains.

But each of those artists takes a backseat on Jenckes’ personal playlist to the Southern guitar riffs from Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Simple Man Everything in the singer’s life—from his eclectic taste in music to his desire to perform— has been done to memorialize his father, who died when Austin was just 16. He continues to play the guitar his father used during his own career as a musician. Jenckes includes the Lynyrd Skynyrd standard “Simple Man” at every performance as a tribute to the man who gave him his first guitar 17 years ago.

“My father is still my inspiration. The music helps me release the pain,” he explained.

Buck said her son lives to perform in front of live audiences, remembering his first gig at the Fourth of July celebration in Fall City when he was just 12 years old.

“He was paid $25 for that show in Fall City,” his mother remembered. “But they could have paid him 10 cents. It really did not matter. He just wanted the chance to sing in front of an audience that was not filled with his relatives.”

Jenckes’ taste in music is also a reflection of the values he learned while growing up in the Snoqualmie Valley. His mother said Austin was not a typical teenager who dreamed of stardom while locked in the

PAGE 3

garage for rehearsals with his makeshift band. The outgoing teenager was an honor student, captain of the football team and sang with his high school jazz choir. He was popular enough to be elected Homecoming King during his senior year at Cedarcrest and had enough energy left to be active in student body politics.

Jenckes continued to write his own music and perform at local clubs while he earned his degree in communications from Western Washington University in Bellingham. He moved home for a year after college and was a regular at venues throughout the Seattle area, including The Sip, The Edgewater Hotel and the Hard Rock Cafe.

Anywhere people would listen “Money was never his motivation. He just wanted to perform,” said Buck. “He’d play at weddings, birthday parties and at church events. He’d perform for free at Relief Benefits and at senior centers, and then participate in the Battle of the Bands.

Anywhere people would listen.”

His reputation as an entertainer took Jenckes on a yearlong tour of performance halls from California to British Columbia. But the native son will never forget his farewell show in December of 2012 at The Triple Door in Seattle.

“It was great. It was an intimate party for just 350 of my closest friends,” he remembered. The singer-songwriter moved to Nashville shortly after his high-energy concert in Seattle to focus his attention on the writing side of music.

He described his new home as “Music City USA” that attracts artists beyond the world of country music.

“My son is not the LA type,” said Buck. “Nashville is more his style.”

Jenckes said artists from almost every type of music

come to Nashville to write and, hopefully, sell their songs to other artists to record.

His decision to move away was an easy one. Leaving his family was not. Ultimately, Jenckes said he was more interested in delivering his message through his lyrics and music than working his way through clubs for the chance to be in the spotlight on center stage “That’s the path I truly believe will take me to the next level in this business.”

He may be living in Tennessee, but Austin stressed that his heart and his message rarely strays to far from his family and the community where he grew up.

“The Valley is truly one of the most beautiful places in the world,” he remarked. “My music may have been influenced by the summer afternoons I spent floating down the pristine river.

But it’s probably because that’s my home and where my memories were born.”

The musical career of Austin Jenckes may have started when his father handed him a guitar.

But his future in music was probably set in stone on the day he was born. He not only shares his name as a town in Texas known for its music festival and the birthplace of Louie Armstrong. He also grew up with a sister named Meloanie.

Studio recordings of Jenckes’ music are available at retail outlets throughout the Eastside, including Cascade Office Supply in North Bend and online through Amazon. The performer said he always has copies of his CD for sale out of the trunk of his car.

“Whatever it takes,” he said with a smile in his voice.

Dan Aznoff was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for his coverage of the toxic waste crisis in California. His website is www.dajournalist.com. He can be contacted at d.aznoff@ comcast.net.

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Opinion

PAGE 4

Editorial

Letters

Marci Busby for school board

Secretary Association endorses Marci Busby

Marci Busby and David Spring are vying for the open position on the Snoqualmie Valley School District Board.

The two candidates are distinctly different.

Busby has been involved in schools for more than two decades, starting as a volunteer in the classroom and being a PTSA member. She has served on the board for eight years and wants to help guide the district through the growth challenges it currently faces.

These include preparing for a school levy to build a new elementary school and dealing with the first year of the Mt. Si Freshman Campus. Changes can be difficult, Busby said, for school district leaders and staff but she believes everyone is capable of getting the best out of the Freshman Campus concept.

Spring regularly attends district board meetings and speaks during the public comment period. He also is a parent and supports educators. As a parent he is dissatisfied with the Freshman Campus because it has increased the size of the other middle schools and, he said, disrupted learning experiences for students who want things such as band and choir.

Spring has run for several elected offices over the years and continually cites increased education as the way to solve different problems.

Busby should be returned for another term on the board.

She has earned the respect of the community. Even in the midst of tense contract negotiations in September, staff members say that she listened to what they had to say.

Busby is well-liked by parents and teachers who view her as supportive of district goals. She is concerned about students, believing homework must be purposeful and relevant to the needs of the student. She has also led several successful school bond and levy campaigns.

Busby is the right choice to continue shaping the future of Valley schools.

Correction

The Oct. 17 editorial regarding Eastside Fire & Rescue’s future was based on incorrect information. The EFR board vote was to take a new funding model back for discussion with each of the six partner agencies. We mistakenly understood the vote to be an endorsement of the plan by the board members, which it was not. Currently, Sammamish is set to decide Nov. 12 on moving ahead with its own fire department outside the EFR consortium.

While some information was incorrect, we stand by our hope that an agreement can be reached with Sammamish still part of EFR. Deborah Berto

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The Snoqualmie Valley Administrative Secretary Association endorses Marci Busby for Snoqualmie Valley School District school board.

As a group, we have worked for many years in the front offices of our district, elementary, middle and high schools.

Serving our communities’ children has been both a joy and a privilege. We are dedicated to their safety, well-being, and academic achievement and take pride in the quality of education our schools provide them.

For these reasons we care deeply about who oversees the schools in our district and we support Marci Busby as she seeks re-election.

Marci Busby represents the values we need most: Integrity, experience, and a willingness to listen to staff and community on all issues. She values teachers and has a long track record in supporting them.

Marci understands the urgent priority to build a 6th elementary school within our boundar-

OCTOBER 24, 2013

ies. We salute her belief in the Freshman Campus and willingness to see the concept through to fruition. Marci has a solid plan to manage future growth in our district and a realistic bond and levy approach for taxpayers.

In short, Marci listens to our staff and community and does not promote her own personal agenda. We need her gentle voice and dedication to our children on our school board.

Karen Seiser and Tina Longwell, Co-Presidents Snoqualmie Valley Administrative Secretary Association

Vote yes on King County Fire District 27 Levy

King County Fire District 27 (Fall City Fire) is at a cross roads in its ability to continue to provide its current level services to the Fall City community.

They are currently working on two different budgets for the Fire Department: one that includes $425,000 from a new levy request on the Nov. 5 ballot, and one with a 30 percent reduction in the workforce. King County Fire District 27 provides

all Fire, Emergency Medical, and Rescue services to the Fall City Community.

The second budget, the one with significant cuts in service and personnel, would become reality should King County Fire District 27 excess levy ballot request fail.

The Nov. 5 general election ballot that was mailed on Oct. 15 includes a Fire District 27 request for a temporary three year, 50 cent increase in the general fire levy. The three year levy period is for collection in 2014, 2015, and 2016. This temporary levy will allow the assessed values to return to previous levels that were affected by collapse of local property values.

If the levy request fails, the Fire District will be faced with the responsibility to cut important essential services, lay off three employees over a nine month period, and furlough the administrative staff. The 30 percent reduction in the workforce will greatly reduce the services that the Fire Department can provide to the Fall City Community and create unsafe working conditions for an already underSee LETTERS, Page 5

Home Country

Need an excuse? Hunting is in our genes In our part of the country, fall means deer hunting. Many of us will dress up like a pile of leaves, go out into very cold weather, and sit still until we freeze to death.

Why? Because we want to have some venison this winter for the family. We’ll figure out how much the venison costs us … but only at gunpoint. Because this is not the most fiscally sane thing we do each year.

Sanity would send us to buy some really tender beef to eat.

Where’s the glory in that? No, there are still a lot of us who would rather go out and find the meat and bring it home.

And we spend a lot of money each year, and read lots of books and magazines, and talk endlessly about techniques.

It doesn’t appear to be a rational way to live, but when you apply science, history, anthropology and Darwinian Theory, it still doesn’t make any sense, but at least now you sound more educated talking about it.

Doc’s awfully good at that.

When the subject came up the other day at the morning meeting of the world dilemma think tank (held daily at the Mule

Barn truck stop since the Hoover administration), Doc said there was actually a very clear scientific reason Slim Randles for it.

Columnist “In cave days,” he said, “only the best hunters lived to sire children. The others ate weeds and died a sorry death.

So we come from a solid line of successful hunters. We’ve been running around clubbing things

to death for about two million years that we know of, and we only started agriculture about 12,000 years ago. So if you divide this and carry the one … well, another way to look at it is … if man emerged from the trees a year ago, he was nothing but a hunter until 18 hours ago.”

“Makes sense,” said Dud, “think I’ll buy some of that Autumn Fandango camo this year.”

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Write to us Snovalley Star welcomes letters to the editor about any subject, although we reserve the right to edit for space, length, potential libel, clarity or political relevance. Letters addressing local news will receive priority. Please limit letters to 350 words or less and type them, if possible. Email is preferred. Letters must be signed and have a daytime phone number to verify authorship. Send them by Friday of each week to:

snovalley star

P.O. Box 1328 q Issaquah, WA 98027 Fax: 391-1541 q Email: editor@snovalleystar.com

SnoValley Star

OCTOBER 24, 2013

PAGE 5

Pet food bank helps people keep their pets

Flood

Guest column

From Page 2

By Dusty Cavaliere Imagine not being able to feed your pet, even for one meal. What would you do?

If that one meal turned into many, could you give up your pet?

That’s what many lowincome pet owners in the Snoqualmie Valley face on a day-to-day basis.

Caring for a dog or cat can become difficult when living on a fixed income.

Some people sacrifice their own medical and nutritional needs to keep their pets. Others have to give up their loved ones because they simply cannot afford to provide for them.

This is where the

Letters From Page 4 staffed Fire Department.

The Fire Department is already operating with minimal staffing and no money available to provide essential training to its Employees just to maintain its current services. Currently King County Fire District 27 has the lowest staffing of any Department in the area and a reduction of employees would further hamper their ability to help the Community.

If the temporary levy passes the Fire Department will be able to maintain its current services, re-establish training standards, and enable the Fire District to partially finance a new

Snoqualmie Valley Pet Food Bank comes in – keeping pets with people.

Once a month we hand out supplemental pet food to clients at the Mt. Si Food Bank.

In 2008 we began providing pet food to 17 pets.

Today we serve 300-350 dogs and cats by providing up to 2,700 pounds of pet food per month.

A furry friend can make a significant difference in their owner’s lives. Studies show that owning a pet can reduce stress, improve physical and mental health, and most importantly provide a precious source of love and friendship; everything important to help a person get through tough times.

Our patrons love the See PET, Page 9 fire engine to replace a 25 year old fire engine that does not meet current recognized national safety standards.

The amount requested would be $4.17 per month for every $100,000 of assessed valuation. The Fire District has not asked for any increase since 2004.

Any questions or requests for a yard sign can be made through our website www.fallcityyes.com or for more information from the Fire Dept. www.king27fire.com Thank you for your continued support and a YES Vote!

Patrick LeDoux Fall City

Club seeks clubs We are the “Civic

Dusty Caviliere hugs her dog Emily.

Health Squad” of the Mount Si High School Key Club and we are working on a project to encourage membership in clubs and associations in the Snoqualmie Valley. We appreciate the importance of having good relationships and enjoying common interests. The majority of our clubs cannot be found in the yellow pages or internet directories and so our main objective is to create a directory of clubs and associations within Snoqualmie Valley.

We are especially interested in identifying groups where people gather around a common interest in recreation, physical activity, nature, service and fellowship. Whether fly fishing, gardening, prospecting, geocaching, cooking, book clubbing,

model plane flying, dog training, river wading, knitting, biking, yodeling or drawing, there is some “ing” for everyone! Please help us create a directory of clubs and associations throughout Snoqualmie Valley.

Please review the following link: Associations list.

If you are aware of a group that is not on this list, please let us know by providing as much information as you can using the following link. Snoqualmie valley associations input template.

Thank you for your support.

Donavan See, Alex Sjoboen, Emily Schwabe, Preston Henning Mount Si Key Club Civic Health Squad

along a river or stream at any time of the year,” said Urquhart. “It is important for everyone to learn the basic steps for protecting themselves and their property from flood waters.”

Rain traditionally increases this time of year. About half of western Washington’s annual rainfall comes during the months of November, December and January.

Rainfall can swiftly cause a stream or river to flood, damaging homes, properties and businesses. Knowing how to prepare for the possibility of flooding – before it happens – is an essential part of living in the Pacific Northwest.

In an effort to encourage community preparedness, more than 20 emergency responders from King and Pierce counties (including Bellevue Fire, Bellevue Police, Buckley Fire, City of Pacific, East Pierce Fire, King County Sheriff’s Office, King County Department of Emergency Management, Pierce County Department of Emergency Management and Valley Regional Fire) came together today for a friendly competition of human vs. machine in a sandbagging contest held along the White River in Pacific.

“While this contest offers a lighthearted approach to the preparedness topic, river flooding is no laughing matter,” said Karen

Rich, Take Winter by Storm program manager.

“Even one inch of water can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage. When done right, sandbags can help protect lives and property by diverting water away from homes and businesses.”

She gave tips including: q Minimize flood damage by storing valuables and electronics higher, and by moving vehicles and equipment to high ground before flood waters rise. q Dispose of hazardous chemicals such as lawn and gardening herbicides at a county household hazardous waste site to help reduce harmful contaminates in flood waters. q Never drive around any road closure sign erected because of flooding; the number-one cause of deaths during flood events is the failure of drivers to heed road closure signs, resulting in them being swept away by floodwaters.

Many jurisdictions provide sandbag materials free of charge.

Sandbag distribution information is available in King County by calling the Flood Warning Information Line 206296-8200 or 800-9459263.

Go to www.

TakeWinterByStorm.org for more information and helpful resources, such as a downloadable preparedness and maintenance checklists and emergency contact cards.

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Heather is a community builder and our neighbor endorsed by: Democrats and Republicans, Snoqualmie Mayor Matt Larson, State Rep. Jay Rodne (R), King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert, Snohomish County Executive John Lovick (D), our Firefighters, and supported by our city’s Planning Commission.

SnoValley Star

PAGE 6

Candidate Q&A

Snoqualmie City Council

Questions and answers for candidates in the contested races for Snoqualmie City Council and the Snoqualmie Valley School Board.

OCTOBER 24, 2013

Snoqualmie Valley School Board Election Day is Nov. 5 Marci Busby

If elected, what would be your top priority in your first year in office?

What decision made by the council in the past four years would you change and why?

Heather Munden

Terry Sorenson

Continuing with downtown revitalization/infrastructure development and moving forward with River Walk Plan, which will become a new gem and community identifier for our city’s character.

I would hire more police officers. With our population increasing we must maintain the level of service that reduces crime rather than reacts to crime.

I would change these past “minor modification” decisions and promote more transparency by notifying and involving area residents.

I would not have annexed the mill site area.

We now become responsible for bridge repair and maintenance.

How will you communicate with the residents?

Regularly. I am always accessible through email, phone, texting, and face-to-face gatherings and events (as referenced above), as I have been throughout my campaign.

I would like to meet with citizens every other Saturday to hear the issues important to them.

If the city had an extra $1 million to spend, what should it be used for?

Focus funding on crucial public works and crumbling infrastructure needs, as well as increased public safety staffing needs, including search and rescue boat for firefighters.

With one time money I would refurbish parks.

Quality parks bring families together, increase property value, and keep kids out of trouble.

What two local issues have the greatest urgency?

1) Infrastructure maintenance/revitalization, including River Walk Plan and continued flood mitigation 2) The SVSD’s need for a new, second elementary school on the Ridge.

Increase jobs and overcrowded schools. We can all help guide the school district to make correct long-term decisions.

How can Snoqualmie retain its community character amid future growth?

Along with continued smart, planned growth, preserve the current city gems (Snoqualmie Falls, Northwest Railway Museum, and Historic Downtown), which promote our community character.

If leaders make decisions that benefit all, community character isn’t lost. Young/old, rich/poor we all matter.

How would you represent the less fortunate in a largely affluent city?

Represent everyone fairly/openly. Ensure city continues partnership with YMCA and other critical nonprofit organizations to provide important services. Continue donating time each month.

I live paycheck to paycheck. I know every decision can have a financial impact to citizens rich or poor.

David Spring

As state funding increases, what percentage should go to teacher salaries?

To class size reductions?

During contract negotiations, the community expressed smaller class size and competitive compensation as high priorities. I look forward to seeing what state funding supports.

Class size reduction is more important than teacher salaries. I therefore believe at least two thirds of State increases should go to hiring new teachers.

What experience do you bring to the board that will make a difference to the district?

In addition to many years of Snoqualmie Valley Community Network Board and SVSD Board experience, I also lead several successful school bond and levy campaigns.

I have a Masters Degree in Child Development and have been a teacher. I have also spent nearly 20 years teaching courses in problem solving.

Aside from funding, what should district officials be asking of state legislators?

Mandates should come with support. The state continues to impose labor intense, unfunded mandates i.e. Common Core State Standards and the new Teacher Evaluation System.

The state legislature should reduce the emphasis on unreliable standardized tests. Too many teachers are “teaching to the test” rather than helping children learn.

We can foster growth by learning from the recent collaborative development of the new Teacher Evaluation System; apply what was successful to future contract talks.

School boards should control spending on administration and consultants in order to leave more money to hire more teachers and lower class sizes.

The district has implemented the following high leverage strategies: Freshman Campus, systematic advisory model, designated drug/ alcohol and mental health counselor, and accessible academic support classes.

Hiring more teachers and lowering class sizes has been shown to reduce the dropout rate which is way too high in our school district.

I support district leaders who work closely with our teachers to ensure they have quality professional development and instructional materials which lead to content mastery.

We should use objective problem solving skills more. This includes understanding the underlying causes of problems and the pros and cons of all options.

The use of student assessment data is just one component of the Teacher Evaluation system and should not be the only criteria to determine effectiveness.

Student test scores measure only low level thinking and are very unreliable. I therefore do not support their use in teacher evaluations.

What is the role of the school board in the district’s relationship with the teachers’ union?

What would you do to lower the district’s dropout rate, or is it low enough?

What can the school board leadership do to improve education?

How much should student test scores be used in teacher evaluations?

SnoValley Star

OCTOBER 24, 2013

PAGE 7

Snoqualmie Valley Hospital District

Candidate Q&A

Position 4

Position 2

Candidates in the contested races for Snoqualmie Valley Hospital District answered these questions for the Star. Read more questions and answers online at www.snovalleystar.com.

Election day is Nov. 5.

Dariel Norris

Dick Edward Jones

Kevin Hauglie

Gene Pollard

What do you see as the three major issues facing the Hospital District in the next four years?

Fiscal responsibility: Hospital is 40 years old and $40M in debt; Viability: Few residents use the hospital; Transparency: Citizens asking we need a new hospital.

Ensuring our community has access to high quality, affordable health care; navigating the uncertainties of health care reform, and implementing technological advances in delivery options.

Continuing our recent services and financial success; incorporating the Affordable Care Act; and dealing with regulatory and access issues as we add electronic medical records.

Three of many issues are the hospital’s finances, the hospital and board’s transparency and accountability, and conflicts of interest for staff and board members.

What will you do about these issues?

Ensure board due diligence on critical decisions, determine how to better serve the Valley, open communication, better web page and publish board minutes in newspapers.

We implemented “Affordable Access,” a health plan for $30 per month.

We’re adding electronic medical records and are implementing telemedicine programs and health information exchanges.

Continue serving on the Finance and Facility committees; and utilize my business, emergency medical systems experience and community connections to deliver the best medical care.

Prepare and follow a meaningful strategic plan; work toward greater transparency and accountability, and require full financial disclosures by key hospital officials and board members.

What changes would you like to see in the hospital and district in the next four years?

Hospital which is economically viable; need to lower debt; services which address community needs and transparency with a partnership between the community and hospital board.

What services do you think the hospital district should be offering to the community?

Sponsor health education programs, emergency preparedness, new baby programs, mental health education and staffed support groups.

How will you communicate with district residents?

Link my Facebook and list my telephone number on the hospital’s website commissioner page; attend community events to talk with the public; wear a nametag.

Why are you running for the hospital board?

I’m concerned about fiscal responsibility, the need for future hospital viability, and a need for transparency for community ownership. I was asked to run.

More preventive health care, particularly cancer screening programs. The new hospital, which we’re building without any tax increases, will allow us to expand programs and services.

Making the new hospital efficient in delivery of high-quality in- and outpatient services. Growing the WaNIC program to provide a lab/classroom for health care students.

Possibly a birthing center and obstetrics department; increased security, particularly with the new hospital’s proximity to Echo Glen; home, palliative and hospice care; and more open and responsive management and governance.

More comprehensive mental and home health services and programming to fulfill community needs based on recent assessments. Our district is a robust, integrated health organization.

Adding cancer care, developing a wider awareness of preventative health care in a “Be Healthy, Stay Healthy” approach, and further collaboration with our neighbor hospitals.

In addition to increased services above, open pricing estimates of health care services posted on the website. Other hospitals are moving in this direction.

An improved website.

Announcing meetings online and in public places and holding monthly meetings in each community we serve. Commitment to listening, transparency and openness.

I attended health care assessment meetings and want to continue learning people’s needs; to communicate with citizens and to ask what we can do better.

My website, media releases on important issues, and meet personally with people at senior centers, library events and community activities, and people who contact me.

A lifelong Valley resident, I am invested in the community’s well-being. I helped guide this district through tough years and am optimistic about the hospital.

I am passionate about serving and committed to excellence. During the auditor interview, they said, “You all must be proud of your accomplishments.” I am.

To change the board quorum; to replace Kevin Hauglie who presided when the board approved discounting the Snoqualmie Tribe’s $28 million debt by 50 percent.

SnoValley Star

PAGE 8

Police and fire North Bend police No country for cold men Police responded at 5:29 p.m. Oct. 11 to a report of evidence of homeless camps along the side of the Snoqualmie Valley Eyecare building. There have been signs of vagrants and drug dealing over the last six months. On the day in question an officer noticed an unidentified blue bicycle on the scene.

This is not my life Police responded at 1 p.m.

Oct. 13 to a report on the 600 block of Northeast 8th Street that an unknown subject had apparently taken the victim’s driver’s license. The victim said he recently moved into a home with some roommates and they were all at a casino.

Halloween From Page 3 Union, 7730 Center Blvd.

S.E., Snoqualmie. Pick up a passport and visit participating businesses.

Finish the adventure at the Snoqualmie Valley YMCA where treats, carni-

When they returned home he put his Minnesota driver’s license on the coffee table where he believes it was stolen by an unknown acquaintance of another roommate.

Hot on the trail Police responded at 3:25 p.m.

Oct. 13 to a report of a suspect smashing the rear driver’s side window of a car with a rock in the 300 block of West North Bend Way. The suspect then snatched a purse or purses and fled on foot. Several witnesses chased the suspect on Snoqualmie Trail.

Burglary Police responded at 7:10 p.m. Oct. 14 to the 300 block East of Park Street to a burglary. The suspect entered the apartment through a locked front door and made off with a TV, laptop, and cell phone.

val games and bounce toys await. Free.

Sixth grade and up welcome - The Si View Haunted House at the Si View Community Center is not recommended for young children. It will be open 9-11:30 p.m., Si View Community Center, 400 S.E. Orchard Drive, North Bend, $4.

Family costume

Smooth criminal Police responded at 8:45 a.m. Oct. 16 to a larceny on the 200 block of South East Orchard. An unknown person stole the wheels and tires from a parked Ford Ranger. A car jack was left under one wheel well, which the police cannot retrieve as evidence until the suspect replaces the wheels.

Police are to be notified when this happens.

From a child’s first visit to the day they head off to college... we’ll treat them like our own.

Preferred provider

An Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

(425) 296-6323

(425) 296-6296

Snoqualmie police No report available.

Police responded at 5:46 p.m. Oct. 17 to a larceny at the Safeway on Southwest Mount Si Boulevard. Witnesses saw a male suspect walk out of the store without paying and load his items from his shopping cart into his trunk, then drive away.

Car engine fire

No points for honesty

Garbage fire

Police responded at 8:59 p.m.

Oct. 17 to a criminal warrant at the Chevron on Southwest

Fire crews responded Oct. 11 to Spruce Street because of a burn complaint. Firefighters

Every child has A SMILE WORTH protecting

As a dentist who specializes in childhood dental care it is our goal to equip parents with the knowledge and tools to establish a home that practices correct oral hygiene.

Mount Si Boulevard. A subject called 911 to turn themselves in for having a felony warrant with the Department of Corrections for having escaped community custody. The subject was booked into King County Jail.

Snoqualmie fire

Shoplifting

party – Halloween fun for the whole family at the Snoqualmie Brewery.

Costume contest, 7-10 p.m. Free admission.

Have a scary time – at Monster Mashup, the 13th Annual Halloween Movie Madness Event at Valley Center Stage.

Enjoy a live musical performance while watching classic spooky flicks such

More than 40% of children have cavities by the time they reach kindergarten

OCTOBER 24, 2013

Fire crews responded Oct. 11 to Highway 18 near the Tiger Mountain Summit to a car fire that was mostly out when they arrived. They used water to cool the engine block.

as “Frankenstein,” “The Mummy,” “Godzilla,” “Space Men” and “She Demons.” The show is appropriate for all ages and will feature clips from these classic pieces of cinema, accompanied by live rock and jazz music performed by Cascade Jazz.

In addition to the movies and music there will be several comedy sketches performed. 7:30 p.m., $12.50.

Oct. 27 Ride the rails - You drive by the trains all the time but when was the last time you actually rode on one? Get a ticket discount for wearing a costume on

were able to smell burning garbage but were unable to find the source.

Salty, buttery, smoky Fire crews responded Oct. 14 to a commercial building on Snoqualmie Ridge due to a fire alarm. Investigations revealed the alarm was triggered by burnt popcorn in a microwave.

New battery, old problems

Fire crews responded Oct. 16 to a residence on Isley Street for a carbon monoxide detector alarm. Investigation revealed the alarm was triggered when the homeowner replaced the battery.

In addition to the above calls, Snoqualmie firefighters responded to 10 medical aid calls, bring-

the Northwest Railway Museum Halloween Train. It departs from Snoqualmie station, 38625 S.E. King St., at 11:01 a.m., 12:31 p.m., 2:01 p.m., 3:31 p.m., and 4:16 p.m.; departs from North Bend at 11:31 a.m., 1:01 p.m., 2:31 p.m. and 4:01 p.m., $15/adults, $12/ seniors, $10/children, $2 discount for wearing costumes.

Sixth grade and up welcome - The Si View Haunted House at the Si View Community Center is not recommended for young children. It will be open 9-11:30 p.m., Si View Community Center, 400 S.E. Orchard Drive, North Bend, $4.

See BLOTTER, Page 9

Harvest Carnival – Costume contest, food and games appropriate for all ages at the Carnival at the Benson Barn, 4-7 p.m., 14120 424th Ave. S.E., North Bend. Bring some homemade chili to test your recipe against others in the chili cook-off. Hot dogs, chili, chips, and beverages will be provided. Admission is free but participants are encouraged to bring donations for the local food bank.

The Harvest Carnival is presented by the Mt. Si Lutheran Church. For questions call 888-1322.

Oct. 31 Children 5 and under get to trick-ortreat 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at businesses Historic Downtown Snoqualmie.

For grown-ups Once you’ve treated the last trick-or-treater, adults can head to the Halloween Party, 9 p.m. to 1 p.m. at Finaghty’s Irish Pub, 7726 Center Blvd. S.E., Suite 110, costume prizes and food and drink specials.

SnoValley Star

OCTOBER 24, 2013

3 receive awards from Washington Finance Officers Association

Stanley Lewis, Beth Waltz and Tania Holden recently received the Professional Finance Officer award for 2013 from the Washington Finance Officers Association (WFOA). The annual award recognizes achievements of professional service and ongoing continuing education and training.

Lewis is the Finance Manager and Waltz is the staff accountant for the city of North Bend.

Holden is an account clerk with the city of Snoqualmie.

Run, Walk and Roll brings out Bridge of Promise supporters The inaugural Run, Walk and Roll event was a success for the Bridge of Promise organization’s new Academy program, whose goal is to maintain and build educational and social skills for people with developmental disabilities over 21 years old. The

Blotter From Page 8 ing their annual call number to 940.

North Bend fire Medical assist Fire crews responded with one engine Oct. 14 at 6:39 p.m. to the 600

event happened Saturday, Oct 12 at the Centennial Park in Snoqualmie.

Attendees did a 5K while listening to Chris Stanley on guitar followed by bratwurst and beverages.

“We are thrilled to see this support from our community and look forward to making this an annual event every October,” said Amy Frentzen, Program Director of Bridge of Promise’s Academy.

The goal of the event was for runners and walkers of all abilities, from the middle and high school running clubs or just individuals who wanted to contribute, to have an opportunity to celebrate a group of special young adults.

The event is tentatively scheduled again for next year on Saturday, Oct. 11 at the Centennial Park in Snoqualmie.

The Bridge of Promise Academy is supported by individual and community donations.

Eight participants are currently in the program, which opened this September, and there is already demand to expand the program. The mission of the academy is to raise

block of East North Bend Way to provide medical assistance to the emergency medical service crew.

Auto accident with injuries

Emergency medical service crews responded Oct. 15 at 2 p.m. to the 35600 block of westbound I-90 for a motor vehicle accident with injuries.

PAGE 9

awareness of inclusion and the value of each individual.

For more information about the Bridge of Promise visit www.bridgeofpromise.org.

Second half of 2013 property taxes are due Oct. 31 King County property owners have until Oct. 31 to pay the second half of their 2013 property taxes.

After that, interest charges and penalties will be added to the tax bill.

King County provides several ways for property owners to pay their taxes quickly and conveniently.

Taxpayers can pay securely online with a credit card or e-check at www.kingcounty.gov/propertytax.

Owners can pay the tax by mail if postmarked no later than Oct. 31.

Taxpayers should include the tax statement and write the property tax account number on checks or money orders. Send them to King County Treasury, 500 Fourth Ave., Room 600, Seattle, WA, 98104.

Accidents happen

Emergency medical service crews responded Oct. 14 at 7:07 p.m. to the 43800 block of South East 143rd Street. Three engines were dispatched to an accident with injuries that did not involve any vehicles.

The Star publishes names of those charged with felony crimes.

Information comes directly from local police reports.

Contributed

Emily, dog of food bank Director Dusty Cavaliere, is surrounded by donated pet food.

Pet From Page 5 pet food bank and tell us often what it means to them.

“It’s a lifesaver because we only have one income in our household right now,” said one woman.

A man said, “I appreciate it and so do my dogs.”

Community partnerships have been the key to the pet food bank’s success.

Most recently, Brownie Troop 42538, of Fall City, held a bake sale raising enough money to purchase 500 pounds of food

for the pets. It is volunteers’ creative efforts like this that makes a big difference.

Additionally, each month the Humane Society of Seattle/King County provides a portion of the food we hand out. Pooch-n-Play transports the pet food from the Humane Society in Bellevue. Pet Place Market collects donations from their customers.

Mark’s Pet Pals hands out pet food.

The Pet Food Bank couldn’t survive without our animal-loving volunteers.

This spring we will be adding a new event to our fundraising efforts,

the Bow Wow Easter Egg Hunt. Join us with your pooch at 11 a.m. April 19, 2014 at the Three Forks Off-Leash Dog Park in Snoqualmie. Dogs will be able to hunt for eggs filled with doggie treats and prizes.

The Snoqualmie Valley Pet Food Bank is a nonprofit organization of Community Connections of Snoqualmie Valley.

To feed a pet-in-need, or find out more information, visit www.svpetfoodbank.org and www.facebook.com/svpetfoodbank.

Guest columnist Dusty Cavaliere is the director of the Snoqualmie Valley Pet Food Bank.

SnoValley Star

PAGE 10

OCTOBER 24, 2013

Obituary Ryan A. Johnson Ryan passed away unexpectedly Sept. 24, 2013.

He was born May 9, 1980, and lived in North Bend most of his life. He graduated from Mount Si High School in 1998. He joined the Marines for a five-year enlistment, with two separate tours in Iraq.

To see more about Ryan’s life and his memorial service, please go to www.snoqualmievalleychapel.com.

Ryan will be greatly missed by all his loving family and friends.

Watch out for deer on the roads this fall

Ashton VSG Spellbound Single Cigar $18.89

Padron 64’ Anniversay Single Cigar $17.39

Cohiba Black Robusto Single Cigar $13.29

La Aurora Preferido Robusta Single Cigar $9.59

Acid Natural Elixer Single Cigar $7.79

Java Latte the 58 Single Cigar $7.59

Gurkha Evil Toro Single Cigar $6.69

Cuban Stock EX Bomba Maduro Single Cigar $6.29

YOUR FAVORITE BRANDS - UNBEATABLE PRICES

Crown Royal .75L $21.99

Johnny Walker Red .75L $22.99

Ketel One .75L $19.99

Jack Daniels .75L $17.99

Fall is deer collision time on Washington roadways.

This is the season for deer activity, such as migration to lower elevations for easier foraging and breeding season when bucks are less wary.

Human behavior contributes, with more drivers on the roads during shorter daylight hours.

To avoid such collisions, slow down during fall and winter, especially in the hours just before, during and after dusk and dawn.

And pay attention to deer crossing signs and “high kill area” signs.

If you hit and injure a deer or other wild animal, or find an injured wild animal on the roadside,

you can call a trained wildlife rehabilitator who might be able to safely retrieve the animal and care for it.

Learn more at http://1. usa.gov/1aXqEwZ.

Buffalo Trace $20.99

Fremont Mischief $33.99

Eagle Rare $24.99

Single Silo Vodka $25.99

Monday through Friday, at 411 Main Ave. S., North Bend.

Tickets for the fashion show are $15. For more information, call 8883434.

Gloves, jewelry and Grants offered for unincorporated area dresses needed for Senior Fashion Show project ideas The Mount Si Senior Center needs fancy dresses, gloves and jewelry for the upcoming Diamonds are Forever Fashion Show on Nov. 9.

Seniors will be modeling donated outfits and current fashions from Christopher & Banks.

In addition, there will be a fashion show parody performed by seniors.

To donate, drop off the items at The Mt. Si Senior Center, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tanqueray .75L $18.99

SPECIALIZING IN HARD TO FIND CRAFT AND SMALL BATCH

Woodinville Whiskey Bourbon $35.59

Ryan A. Johnson

WL Weller $22.99

Oct. 31 - Nov. 2 FREE ADMISSION Like Us on Facebook: Pickering Barn Vintage & Antique Show

King County is offering a third year of Community Service Area grants.

The grants encourage residents in the unincorporated communities to become more connected in their neighborhoods.

A total of $60,000 is available through the program for projects, with grants of less than $5,000.

Examples of possible projects are: ❑ newsletters that inform residents about important issues affecting the community; ❑ events such as concerts, festivals, and educational and safety projects; ❑ neighborhood improvement projects such as tree planting, graffiti removal and cleanup; ❑ community-led planning or training; and ❑ signage for a neighborhood or community.

Proposals should demonstrate how activities would be accessible to all unincorporated King County residents regardless of race, income or language spoken.

A minimum match of 25 percent in the form of volunteer time, cash or inkind services of the total project cost is required.

Applications are due Jan. 10, 2014.

Information about the 2014 application process, grant application workshop dates, and a list of the 2013 awardees is available at http://1.usa. gov/19Qo9fE.

SnoValley Star

OCTOBER 24, 2013

YOUR WEEK

PAGE 11

SCHEDULE THIS: Snoqualmie Valley Hospital Auxiliary hosts a Holiday Bazaar Sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Mount Si Senior Center, 411 Main Ave. S., North Bend, featuring holiday crafts, a raffle and a bake sale. Proceeds go to support a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating Mount Si High School senior pursuing a degree in the medical field. To learn more, email snovalleyhospitalauxiliary@gmail.com.

Send your news Send items for Your Week to newsclerk@ isspress.com by noon Friday.

THE CALENDAR FOR OCTOBER 25-31 FRI

SAT

SUN

MON

TUES

WED

THUR

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

q Pumpkin Patch Swim, 4:30-5:45 p.m. or 6:15-7:30 p.m., Si View Park Pool, 400 S.E. Orchard Drive, swim around and pick out a pumpkin, $7 preregistration, $10 at the door, limit 60 people per time frame, kids under age 6 must have parent with them q Milo Petersen Trio, 7 p.m., Boxley’s, 101 W. North Bend Way, North Bend, 2929307

q Guided Tour of Meadowbrook Farm, 10 a.m. to noon, meet at Snoqualmie Middle School parking lot, 9200 Railroad Ave., free, dave_battery@ msn.com q Trick or Treat on Snoqualmie Ridge, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., start at Sno Falls Credit Union, 7730 Center Blvd.

S.E., all ages, free q Kids Night Out at the Y, 6-10 p.m., Snoqualmie Valley YMCA, 35108 S.E. Ridge St., ages 3-12, $36/community members, $20/facility members, register at 256-3115 q Kelly Eisenhour Quartet, 7 p.m., Boxley’s, 101 W. North Bend Way, North Bend, 2929307

q Professor Fred’s Monster Movie Show presents ‘Killers From Space,’ 7:30 p.m., The Black Dog, 8062 Railroad Ave. S.E., performance from the all-monster band Ramshackle and trivia, 831-3647 q Si View Haunted House, 9-11:30 p.m., Si View Community Center, 400 S.E. Orchard Drive, North Bend, sixth grade and children, $4

q Left Coast Gypsies Halloween Show, 8 p.m., The Black Dog, 8062 Railroad Ave. S.E.

q Si View Haunted House, 9-11:30 p.m., Si View Community Center, 400 S.E. Orchard Drive, North Bend, sixth grade and up, $4

q Teen Adventures: Seattle Sounders vs. LA Galaxy, 4-9 p.m., meet at Snoqualmie Valley YMCA, 35108 S.E. Ridge St., ages 11-15, register online, $40/ community or program member, $30/ facility member q Seattle Jazz Singers, 6 p.m., Boxley’s, 101 W. North Bend Way, North Bend, 292-9307

q Chaka Khan, 7 p.m., The Ballroom at Snoqualmie Casino, 37500 S.E. North Bend Way, ages 21 and older, $60-$120, tickets available through Ticketmaster q Northwest Railway Museum Halloween Train, departs from Snoqualmie station, 38625 S.E. King St., at 11:01 a.m., 12:31 p.m., 2:01 p.m., 3:31 p.m., and 4:16 p.m.; departs from North Bend station, 205 McClellan St., at 11:31 a.m., 1:01 p.m., 2:31 p.m. and 4:01 p.m., $15/adults, $12/seniors, $10/children, $2 discount for wearing costumes

q Home school drop-in playgroup, 1-2 p.m., Snoqualmie Valley YMCA, 35108 S.E. Ridge St., Snoqualmie, free to all home school families q Harvest Party at Lula Ruby, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Lula Ruby Organic Salon, 73290 Better Way S.E., Snoqualmie,

q Community and Economic Affairs Committee, 5-6 p.m., Snoqualmie City Hall, 38624 S.E. River St., 888-1555, ext. 1125 q Tuesday Jam, 7 p.m., Boxley’s, 101 W. North Bend Way, North Bend, 292-9307

q Economic Development Commission, 8-10 a.m., Snoqualmie City Hall, 38626 S.E. River St., 8881555 q Sno-Valley Indoor Playground, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, Si View Community Center Gymnasium, 400 Orchard St., North Bend, families and children ages 0-5, $1 donation per child

q CHK Workshop, 7 p.m., Boxley’s, 101 W. North Bend Way, North Bend, 2929307 q City Council meeting, 7-9 p.m., City Hall, 38624 S.E. River St., Snoqualmie, 8881555, ext. 1118

q Public Safety Committee, 5-6 p.m., Snoqualmie Fire Station, 37600 S.E. Snoqualmie Parkway, 888-1551 q Eric Verlinde’s Halloween Duo, 7 p.m., Boxley’s, 101 W. North Bend Way, North Bend, 292-9307

kids 5 and younger, wear costumes, healthy snacks provided, free q MSHS Vocal Jazz Clinic, 5 p.m., Boxley’s, 101 W. North Bend Way, North Bend, 2929307

q Snoqualmie Treat Harvest, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Historic Downtown Snoqualmie, wear your costume and trick-or-treat at local businesses, children age 5 and younger

q Cedar River Watershed Education Center, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 19901 Cedar Falls Road S.E., North Bend, learn about the watershed that provides drinking water for 70 percent of the greater Seattle area, all ages, free q Study Zone, drop in for free homework help from trained volunteer tutors, for students K-12, 5-7 p.m., Snoqualmie Library, 7824 Center Blvd.

S.E., Snoqualmie

q Future Jazz Heads, 5 p.m., Boxley’s, 101 W. North Bend Way, North Bend, 2929307 q Jazz Heads, 7 p.m., Boxley’s, 101 W. North Bend Way, North Bend, 292-9307

q Finaghty’s Halloween Party, featuring the Steve Bell Band, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Oct. 31, Finaghty’s Irish Pub, 7726 Center Blvd. S.E., Suite 110, costume prizes and food and drink specials all night long

Sports

PAGE 12

OCTOBER 24, 2013

Mount Si football falls to top-ranked Bellevue

By Sam Kenyon

By Calder Productions

Trevor Daniels brings down Bellevue’s ball carrier.

Mount Si was handed its first loss of the season against the Bellevue Wolverines on Oct. 18.

The highly-anticipated game ended up a one-sided contest with Bellevue winning 52-13.

The full moon hung low in the clear sky, on a cool Indian summer night, and the Wildcats started strong. On the first drive of the game, Mount Si pushed the ball up the field until senior running back Evan Johnson crossed the goal line for the first score of the game. The energy was high following the initial drive as the Wildcats took the 7-0 lead against the highlyregarded Bellevue team.

But things got rough for Mount Si after that. The third

play of the Wolverine offense saw star running back senior Budda Baker go for 87 yards and a touchdown. Bellevue’s speedy running consistently outflanked the Wildcats throughout the game. The Wolverines had 397 rushing yards to Mount Si’s 64.

The Wildcats aerial work was high spot - 159 passing yards to Bellevue’s 16; but it wasn’t enough to stop the Wolverine’s running game.

Early in the second quarter, Bellevue ran in another touchdown and after that score their defense began to shutdown the Wildcats. Mount Si had to deal with tough pressure defense, where senior quarterback Nick Mitchell was sacked See GAME, Page 13

Homecoming takes on special meaning for Mount Si quarterback

By Sam Kenyon The Mount Si High School football team plays a pivotal homecoming game this Friday against Mercer Island.

For senior quarterback Nick Mitchell, homecoming really is like coming home for a player who has spent his whole life at Wildcat stadium.

“Football’s been everything for me,” Mitchell said.

His season, like the entire Mount Si team, has been very strong so far.

“There’s no better feeling than running out on a Friday night and just knowing that you have the best fans in the state up there supporting you.”

The only loss so far for Mount Si came against Bellevue last week, and now with only two games left in their regular season, the Wildcats are fighting to claim second place in their league. This makes the homecoming game, with all its nostalgia for the seniors, also a crucial contest for the team’s season.

Mitchell grew up in the Mount Si football culture. His older brothers, Josh and Taylor, were both Wildcats before going on to play at the college level.

Mitchell was a ball boy for several seasons before he started high school. He grew up looking up to the players wearing red at Wildcat stadium.

“A lot of years in his young life have been spent there,” said Jeffrey Mitchell, Nick’s father.

Nick’s younger brother Caleb also plays on the team as a

By Sherry Grindeland

Mount Si High School senior Nick Mitchell will play his final homecoming game at Mount Si this week. sophomore, making four of the five Mitchell children Wildcat football players.

“Mount Si football, Wildcat football, it’s meant a lot to our family and each of these boys,” Jeffrey Mitchell said.

Now, nearing the end of his senior season, Mitchell is nearly finished with the role he used to look up to when he was younger.

“Being able to be that person

that younger kids can look up to has been very important to me,” he said.

Mitchell’s stellar season is a product of his work ethic. He constantly aspires to be better. He spends extra hours after practice working on his skills or studying film. Even when he gets home, after he does his homework, he tries to improve his game rather than watch TV. “I like to lead through exam-

ple,” Mitchell said.”I feel like I’m always the first person there at practice, I’m always the last to leave … just trying to make myself better.”

People notice his work.

Coaches and players see how committed he is to giving his team the best chance to win.

“His work ethic is unbelievable,” said Charlie Kinnune, head coach. “I’m excited about his future.”

Mitchell has committed to playing next year for Oregon State under Coach Mike Riley.

There is a chance, although it’s a slim one because he will possibly redshirt his freshman year, that his older brother, Josh, will be protecting him in the pocket on the offensive line.

Mitchell is a big part of Mount Si’s success this season.

He has thrown for 1,454 passing yards and 15 touchdowns.

He has also picked up 210 rushing yards. Through the first six games of the season his rating was 195, the highest of any quarterback in the league.

Like all the seniors, homecoming will be one of the last big moments for Mitchell as a Wildcat.

“I’m definitely very excited but at the same time it’s sort of a bittersweet moment,” he said.

“This is one of the last home games I’m going to get to play with all of my teammates … in front of the fans in Wildcat stadium for the last time, it’ll definitely be bittersweet.”

“He’ll handle it great,” said Coach Kinnune, confident in his starting quarterback.

“He’s always been a Wildcat … This is a big thing for him and his teammates. They’ve grown up together.

“They’re getting really excited for the next couple of games.

And I’m excited for them. It’s a big deal for them. They’ve worked hard and they’re playing for their hometown and it’s just See MITCHELL, Page 13

SnoValley Star

OCTOBER 24, 2013

PAGE 13

Mitchell From Page 12

By Calder Productions

Colton Swain, above, refuses to let a Bellevue runner get past him. Below, Quarterback Nick Mitchell scrambles.

Game From Page 12 more than in any other game. Mitchell had 2 of the Wildcats’ 3 fumbles.

The Bellevue defense kept Mount Si in check while the Wildcat defense struggled to slow the speed of the Wolverines. By halftime the score was 31-7.

“Bellevue is a great football team, we went in there with a lot of confidence,” said Mitchell. “[We] Made a couple mistakes that you can’t make against Bellevue.”

The start of the second half was decisive and devastating for Mount Si, with Bellevue scoring twice in rapid succession. From then on, the result of the game was assured.

Going into the game the team’s spirits were high. Both Coach Charlie Kinnune and Mitchell spoke about how the week of practice leading up to the Bellevue game was great for the team.

“We had our best week

of practice we’ve had all season,” Mitchell said.

That gives Kinnune some reason for optimism as they head into their crucial homecoming game Oct. 25, when they host Mercer Island.

“We are better today than we were a week ago, a lot better,” Kinnune said.

Bellevue’s lead continued to rise throughout the second half. Then, in the fourth quarter, long after the game had been decided, Mount Si was able to score its second touchdown. Backup quarterback, junior Jonathan Hillel, threw to senior wide receiver Trevor

Daniels for the score.

Mitchell completed 8 of 17 pass attempts for 105 yards. He also had 11 carries for 50 rushing yards, but lost 42 yards for a total of 8. Johnson had 6 carries for 22 rushing yards and 1 touchdown.

Senior running back Bailey Takacs had 7 carries for 23 total rushing yards.

Senior tight end Beau Shain had 3 catches for a total of 34 yards. Daniels had 2 catches for 44 total yards.

The loss moved Mount Si into second place in their division, making the next games crucial for the team as it seeks a playoff berth.

Sam Kenyon can be reached at sam. kenyon@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter @samuel_kenyon.

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all good stuff.”

The importance of homecoming isn’t limited to the players on the field. The families of the senior players, and the whole community, are invested in the Wildcat football team.

The Mitchell parents, like the rest of the senior players’ families, understand that this homecoming game is a special moment in time that won’t be around again.

“It’s a big night for families of those senior players and those players themselves,” Jeffery Mitchell said. “It’s the last time they’ll have that experience.”

This homecoming game comes shortly the same week of another melancholy football ending.

Don James, considered by many to be the greatest UW football coach in history, passed away October 20. James’ impact as a coach was widespread and reached Mount Si directly through Coach Kinnune who saw James as an inspiration.

“It’s an era that’s gone now with his passing,” Kinnune said. “It’s pretty sad.”

Kinnune said he learned much as a young and impressionable coach from watching James and his teams. The way Kinnune coached and taught the game was shaped by Don James.

“He was a hero, an absolute hero,” he said.

James’ influence on football in Washington

State was enormous, and by touching Coach Kinnune, it has indirectly touched Nick Mitchell, who now has to go through a different kind of passing on once his season is over.

In football and in life, nothing lasts forever.

Like his brothers before him, Mitchell will leave Mount Si soon.

And it is his brothers, in part, who have made him the player he is today.

Mitchell says he and his brothers were always fiercely competing over everything, and he brings that fire on to the field. Being a strong competitor is a value Mitchell holds dear. He wears a wristband that reads, “Always Compete, Win Forever.”

His brothers, his team, his school and his community have all shaped Nick Mitchell and in return he has led the Wildcats through a very strong season.

Homecoming is a big event in the community and the crowd is expected to be vigorous.

The closeness of the community is what gives it strength, and football families like the Mitchell’s know how important that is.

“I think we’ve been real fortunate to grow up in a really special community that’s contributed to who he is and we’re grateful for that,” Jeffery said. “It’s been a great place to raise a family and I think our kids have benefited from growing up in such a special place … It just makes our community really special.”

PAGE 14

Sell your ski and snowboard gear at North Bend Elementary Nov. 2

Turn in your used ski and snowboarding gear (skis, boards, clothing, etc) to the North Bend Elementary School on Nov. 2, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. If your items sell, you will receive 70 percent of the sale price.

Money raised will go to the Snoqualmie Valley Ski and Board Clubs, so get rid of your old winter gear.

Then check out the great deals on new and used equipment.

Pre-show check in is on Nov. 1 from 3:30-6 p.m. Once the sale is over, equipment pick up and check out is after the show from 1-1:30 p.m.

Metro Transit launches pedestrian safety campaign As school begins and the fall season approaches, King County Metro Transit is reminding pedestrians to do their part to remain safe on the roadways.

“Our transit operators are always on the lookout for pedestrians, especially as darker, rainy days set in — but people can do their part too by being safe, being seen and being smart,” King County Executive Dow Constantine said in a press release.

In King County, pedestrian deaths increased from 12 in 2011 to 21 in 2012. There are also hundreds of pedestrian injury collisions each year. Based on preliminary information, at least 220 pedestrian injuries from 210 collisions in King County were reported in the first three months of this year, according to the state Traffic Safety Commission.

Metro safely carries about 400,000 riders each weekday throughout King County. The agency hopes to reverse any trends “and prevent every pedestrian collision we can,” Metro General Manager Kevin Desmond said.

That means continued training for operators, and the installation of useful technology, such as special outward facing cameras, which will be tested on two buses this year.

Pedestrians can do several things to help keep themselves safe, said bus operator Theresa Tobin, See TRANSIT, Page 15

SnoValley Star

wheel&motor

OCTOBER 24, 2013

SnoValley Star

OCTOBER 24, 2013

Preparing vehicles for colder temperatures 1. Replace your everyday tires with winter tires – If you can see your breath, it’s time to switch. Even though there isn’t snow on the ground yet, temperatures lower than 45 degrees cause your everyday tires to stiffen and lose traction, but the latest generations of winter tires remain flexible in freezing temperatures, improving traction and available grip.

2. Don’t forget the filters – Oil, fuel, transmission and air filters are important to keep your engine running well. Check your owner’s manual to see how often they should be changed.

3. Check your tire pressure monthly – For every 10 degrees the temperature drops, your tires can lose about 1 pound per square inch (PSI) of pressure.

Monitor your tire pressure more closely during the winter time.

4. Keep your car washed – Keep the exterior washed and waxed to protect your vehicle from the elements as the seasons change.

Courtesy of Bridgestone Tires

Transit From Page 14 a member of Metro’s safety and security team who recently earned her 15-year safe driving award.

“I’m always on the lookout for you, but please, look up from your phone and be aware of traffic when crossing the street,” Tobin said. “And please, if you are wearing dark clothes on a rainy morning — work to see and be seen. When waiting for the bus, please take a step back. We want everyone to be safely away from the edge of traffic.”

Videos tell story of salmon recovery in the state All around Washington state, salmon are returning from years in the Pacific Ocean to their home rivers, much to the delight of school children, anglers, scientists, and businesses.

A major annual salmon migration from sea to river happens around the state every fall. Community festivals, salmon bakes and 10K runs are scheduled

PAGE 15

to recognize the annual event.

The Governor’s Salmon Recovery Office is unveiling a 10-minute video that documents the state’s effort to bring them back from the brink of extinction. See it at http://youtu. be/uTGndUjkDko. The office also is releasing six, two-minute videos that focus on those affected by the decline of salmon populations and those working to restore salmon and salmon habitat. See them at www.youtube.com/ user/WashingtonRCO. “These videos help us tell the story of why salmon are important, why they are in decline and what we are doing to stop that decline,” Kaleen Cottingham, the director of the Recreation and Conservation Office, which oversees the Governor’s Salmon Recovery Office, said in a press release. “Salmon are so important to Washington, and hopefully these videos will give people a better understanding of why.”

Salmon populations have been declining as Washington’s population has grown. In 1991, the federal government

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Applications are being sought for state poet laureate Humanities Washington and the Washington State Arts Commission are now accepting applications for the next Washington State Poet Laureate. The poet

laureate helps build awareness and appreciation of poetry through public readings, workshops and other activities in communities throughout the state. The next laureate, the state’s third since the program was created in 2007, will serve from Feb. 1, 2014, to Jan. 31, 2016.

Selection of the Washington State Poet Laureate is governed by state regulation. To be considered, applicants must meet all eligibility criteria (which can be found online at http://bit. ly/1gb4Ja5) and submit an application online at http://bit.ly/1gb47RW. Applications must be submitted electronically by 5 p.m. Nov. 8. A review panel will select the final candidate and forward its recommendation to Gov. Jay Inslee for confirmation by the end of the year.

The Washington State Poet Laureate is a working position and applicants will be asked to propose activities they would hope to accomplish during their tenure.

The poet laureate will receive a stipend of approximately $13,000 per year to cover expenses and program costs.

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declared the first salmon in the Pacific Northwest as endangered under the Endangered Species Act. In the next few years, it listed 17 more species of salmon as either threatened or endangered. By 1999, some salmon populations had disappeared completely and salmon were listed as threatened or endangered across nearly threefourths of the state.

The Governor’s Salmon Recovery Office was established by the Legislature, through the Salmon Recovery Planning Act, and charged with coordinating a statewide salmon recovery strategy.

It recently launched an interactive Web site, at www.stateofsalmon.wa.gov, that allows people to see how salmon are doing in their community’s streams and rivers.

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SnoValley Star

OCTOBER 24, 2013