Eatonville Cruisers hold annual Big Brother Big Sister event to kick off football season
By Skip Smith Contributing Writer
As teams across the state gear up for the upcoming fall season, the Eatonville High School football and cheerleading teams took a break from their training to host a special event for the community's
youth. The annual Big Brother Big Sister event, held on Aug. 23 inside Rainier Connect Arena at Eatonville High School, brought together the high school athletes and the Eatonville Cruiser Youth football and cheer programs.
The event, which has been a tradition since 2017, was slightly
different this year as the cheer programs were also involved. During the ceremony, each youth player and cheerleader received their game jersey or uniform from a high school athlete. The high schoolers introduced themselves, shared their position, and announced their grade before
presenting the jerseys to their assigned “little brothers” and “little sisters.”
The purpose of the event is to foster mentorship between the two programs. The youth program serves as a feeder to the high
Erik Danielson awarded Teacher of the Year
By Eatonville School District
In a
heartwarming recognition of outstanding dedication and service, Erik Danielson, the Physical Education (PE) teacher at Eatonville Middle School, has been awarded the prestigious Teacher of the Year award by Geneal Palmer and the Ohop Grange. Danielson is known for his unwavering commitment to his students and innovative approach to physical education. His passion for teaching is evident in the way he continually seeks to enrich the curriculum with new and engaging units, ensuring that every student
finds joy and growth in physical activity.
One of Danielson’s most remarkable contributions is the introduction of a PE class specifically tailored for self-contained Special Education (SpEd) students. This initiative has provided a muchneeded inclusive environment where all students, regardless of their abilities, can participate in physical education and develop important life skills. His efforts have not only enhanced the educational experience for these students but have also fostered a sense of belonging and achievement.
The award from Palmer and the
Ohop Grange is a testament to Erik's exceptional dedication and the positive impact he has made on the Eatonville Middle School community. His work exemplifies the very best of what it means to be an educator — someone who goes beyond the classroom to make a lasting difference in the lives of students.
Award of Distinction Presented at Eatonville School District Staff Welcome Back Day
On Aug. 27, the Eatonville School District held its Staff Welcome Back Day, a gathering marked by recognition and celebration. The
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The Eatonville High School football and cheer team's along with the Eatonville Cruiser Youth Football and Cheer programs pose for a group photo following their Big Brother Big Sister event on
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Erik Danielson, the Physical Education (PE) teacher at Eatonville Middle School, has been awarded the prestigious Teacher of the Year award by Geneal Palmer and the Ohop Grange.
Join us Sunday at Home Spun
Phone and Internet Discounts Available to CenturyLink Customers
The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission designated CenturyLink as an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier within its service area for universal service purposes. CenturyLink’s basic local service rates for residential voice lines are $32.00 per month and business services are $48.50 per month. Specific rates will be provided upon request. CenturyLink participates in the Lifeline program, which makes residential telephone or qualifying broadband service more affordable to eligible low-income individuals and families. Eligible customers may qualify for Lifeline discounts of $5.25/month for voice or bundled voice service or $9.25/month for qualifying broadband or broadband bundles. Residents who live on federally recognized Tribal Lands may qualify for additional Tribal benefits if they participate in certain additional federal eligibility programs. The Lifeline discount is available for only one telephone or qualifying broadband service per household, which can be either a wireline or wireless service. Broadband speeds must be at least 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload to qualify.
A household is defined as any individual or group of individuals who live together at the same address and share income and expenses. Services are not transferable, and only eligible consumers may enroll in these programs. Consumers who willfully make false statements to obtain these discounts can be punished by fine or imprisonment and can be barred from these programs.
If you live in a CenturyLink service area, visit https:// .centurylink.com/aboutus/community/communitydevelopment/lifeline.html for additional information about applying for these programs or call 1-800-201-4099 with questions.
There is an event in Eatonville coming up. The 9/11 event has been held every year since the terrorist attacks in remembrance of the lives lost on that day.
Carrie Koschene is the new director in charge of the event, and it is the first year she is hosting it. To make sure as many people can come as possible, the event will be held on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 9 a.m.
Koschene says the purpose
of the event is “9/11 is a National Day of Service and Remembrance in honor of the selfless sacrifice of the first responders and the innocent lives that were lost.” Koschene also stated that 9/11 has two parts that she sees, and they are “the tragic loss we all know and remember and will never forget, and the second portion of 9/11 is how our nation came together in service of one another.”
Ahead of the 9/11 event, Koschene prefers that
everyone register because there will be service projects to be completed. If, for some reason, there are last-minute volunteers, there will be a sign-up booth to register between 8:30 a.m. and 9 a.m.
Koschene is asking people to register so she can estimate how many people will show up and be able to provide enough food for everyone. Koschene is preparing for at least 200 people to attend the event.
At Eatonville High School,
where the flagpole is, there will be a remembrance ceremony and flag service from 9-9:30 a.m. From 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. are the service projects that are going on around town. From 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., lunch is provided for the volunteers working on the service projects.
“The service projects this year are located at the three schools in town, the visitors center, the cemetery, the police department, the post office, Mill Pond Park, the
transportation office, and the Nisqually Land Trust,” Koschene said. There are also two other service projects going on now until Sept. 14. There are donations drives for toiletries benefiting the Eatonville Family Agency. The donation locations are around the town at various businesses. The second service project is at the Eatonville Library, where anyone can write thank you cards for the first responders in Eatonville.
Mount Rainier Business Alliance seeks media project proposals
Submitted
The Mount Rainier Business Alliance is seeking qualifications for a media creation project to market the Upper Nisqually Valley as a premier four-season destination.
The Alliance is looking for creative expertise to develop engaging multimedia content that captures the essence of our region’s diverse outdoor recreational opportunities, including mountain and trail bike riding.
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school, and the hope is that by building strong relationships, the younger athletes will feel inspired and supported as they progress in their academic and athletic careers. The high schoolers, who often express great joy and enthusiasm during the event, serve as role models for the younger generation.
Head Coach Rex Norris emphasized the importance of this tradition, stating, "It was a tradition that was started before my involvement in the program. Coach Gavin Kralik, the previous head coach of the football program, would have similar events happen on the practice field. He did a great job connecting the older program with the youth programs. It was received really well, it meant a lot to the younger players."
Norris, who has been deeply involved in the preparation for the upcoming season, emphasized the importance of such events in the broader context of the program’s development.
“The town of Eatonville has a storied tradition of having a successful and involved football program. We have done a lot this
summer to prepare for our transition into the 2A division.
We have already started our practices leading up to our first jamboree. This is just another step forward for our studentathletes to have opportunities to grow and learn what it means to prepare but also give back as we head towards the start of the season. We are also looking forward to the 911 Community Serve Day on Saturday, Sept. 14.
We hope to see others out there as well. Go Cruisers!”
Eatonville Cruiser Youth Football & Cheer President Alicia Sullivan shared a similar sentiment, “Our ultimate goal is to build a mentorship between our program and the high school. We are a feeder team to the high school both in football and cheer; the more we grow the better it is for those programs. The players and cheerleaders look up to the high schoolers. They want to be and will be them in the near future.”
Sullivan ended with, “The high school players always
The project will involve crafting compelling visuals and narratives that reflect the valley’s stunning landscapes and year-round activities, with a focus on showcasing the area’s appeal across all seasons. Review the request for qualification if you are interested in applying for this project at www.tinyurl. com/mrbaproposal
have a big smile and seem to really enjoy getting to be part of the process. When the juniors go to a game and get to see their "big brother/big sisters" playing under the lights it's so exciting for them.”
The night finished with both program’s players joining up in the middle of the gym floor for the ceremonial “We Are EC” chant that both football programs do prior to and following their games. It was quite a sight to see and hear.
The high school team started their season with the jamboree at Orting High School on Aug. 30, where they will faced Orting, Aberdeen, and Onalaska high schools. The Junior Cruisers, who had their jamboree this past Sunday, will also begin their regular season in September. The Eatonville High School team will host the Cascade Christian Cougars on Thursday, Sept. 5, at 7 p.m., while the Junior Cruisers will have their first game on Saturday, Sept. 7.
One bald face black cow and one black calf to be held and sold as stray at Chehalis Livestock Market on Friday, September 13th. To make a claim, please contact Bobbi Ahmann at (360) 827-0182.
FOOTBALL
“Disaster Preparedness Training”
FALL TRAINING SESSION
September 21st and 28
South Pierce Fire & Rescue invites citizens who live or work in the Eatonville & Roy communities to attend our next session of “Disaster Preparedness Training” classes. Aimed at preparing our local citizens to be ready when disaster strikes, the classes will follow a model developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and offered in cities across the United States.
This long-trusted model is designed to teach you and your family & friends how to help each other in the first few minutes, hours, or days following a disaster – before emergency responders are able to get to you and render professional help.
In the classes, each student will gain hands-on skills and knowledge in Incident command structure, How to use a fire extinguisher properly and put out small fires, How to perform Triage & render first aid in a disaster situation, How to perform light search and rescue, along with other topics.
The series of classes will be held on Two consecutive Saturdays, from 8:30 am – 5:00pm
Classes will be held at Home Spun Ministries, 37117 103rd Avenue Court East. Eatonville WA 98328.
We will accept up to 25 students in this series of classes. There is no prerequisite, other than a desire to learn and help others. It is important that if you enroll, you be available to attend all sessions to receive a certificate of completion. To enroll, go to www.SPFR.Org/DisasterPreparedness or contact South Pierce Fire & Rescue, Chaplain Larry Dorothy at (253) 888-2563 or
AWARD from Page 1Æ
event was particularly special this year as two extraordinary individuals were honored for their exceptional contributions to the district.
Paulette Gilliardi and Jessica (Erickson) Kerr were both recipients of the prestigious Award of Distinction. Gilliardi received her award from Lucy Fountain, while Kerr was presented with hers by Dan Fountain. These awards are a testament to their unwavering dedication, tireless efforts, and the profound impact they have had on both the students and the broader community. Their commitment to excellence is truly inspiring, and the district is deeply grateful for their service.
The Award of
Distinction, originally established in 2010 and recently revived, is a celebration of the accomplishments of Eatonville’s graduates. It serves not only as recognition of past achievements but also as an inspiration for current students to strive for excellence in their own lives.
In addition to these honors, Rich Williams took a moment to recognize Superintendent Jay Brower’s first year at the Eatonville School District. Williams highlighted key accomplishments under Brower’s leadership, including the successful passing of the levy and the creation of a strategic plan. In a lighthearted comparison, Williams likened Brower to basketball legend Julius Erving, also known as Dr. J, emphasizing the dynamic and impactful leadership that Brower has brought to the district. This playful yet meaningful comparison underscored the community's appreciation for Superintendent Brower’s contributions during his inaugural year.
The event also included a poignant tribute to nine Eatonville graduates who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II, reminding everyone of the deep legacy of service and dedication that defines the Eatonville community.
Special thanks go to The Williams, Fountains, Nordstroms, and other members of the committee for their efforts in reviving the Award of Distinction. Their dedication ensures that the legacy of our graduates continues to inspire future generations.
Courtesy photos
Paulette Gilliardi and Lucy Fountain
Rich Williams and Superintendent Jay Brower
Jessica Kerr and Dan Fountain
Family grateful for firefighters helping rescue bird
By Carol Wright
Late one night when I was covering our birds’ cage so they could sleep I saw that Appolina had crawled and pushed herself into a set of rings on a candle holder that was in the cage as a toy.
Her wings were stuck between the rings, and she was in a panic when we tried to pull her out. Her feathers were stuck. We tried to cut the rings, but we couldn’t. Not knowing what else to do we called the Eatonville Fire Department. Two firemen came.
The one with a thick mustache and a big, warm friendly smile said this was a first time helping a bird although they had many interesting stories about removing wild animals from basements and attics while saving pets from danger.
He took out a pair of big pliers and cut the thick wire in several places. Appolina was rescued safely. My
PUBLIC NOTICE TOWN OF EATONVILLE
On August 12, 2024 the Eatonville Town Council voted to approve Ordinance 2024-4. An Ordinance of the Town of Eatonville, Washington, amending the 2024 Budget of the Town of Eatonville, as approved by Ordinance 2023-8. Ordinance 2024-4 may be found on the Town’s website at www.eatonville-wa.gov or at Town Hall.
September 4, 2024.
husband and I were so grateful for their help. The next day Appolina was back to normal, so I went to the fire department to ask how much we owed them, and the receptionist said the help was free. I was even more grateful and bought a box of chocolates to give to the firefighters. We wanted to express our respect to the firefighters who risk their lives at the scene of fires or disasters and even saved our little bird’s life who is so important to our hearts.
PUYALLUP RODEO
A fall-forward fruit crisp
By Lynda Balslev Special to the Dispatch
This luscious fruit crisp is a perfect dessert for an early fall evening. Look to September's harvest and gather late-season stone fruit and autumnal pears for this homey baked dessert. Then fortify the filling and topping with dried fruit and nuts for extra substance, sweetness and texture.
The key to a good fruit crisp is to combine a bounty of fruits at their peak in flavor, enhanced with a dusting of sugar and spice. Use a light hand with the sugar; let the fruit do the heavy lifting to sweeten the dish. The topping should be crisp and crumbly, not cloyingly sweet. Add oats and nuts for a hearty, crunchy texture. (This is why the dessert is called a crisp and not a crumble. A crumble does not include oats and relies on flour to create a clumpier topping.) For a garnish, add a simple dollop of gently sweetened whipped cream to complement the luscious fruit.
This recipe is forgiving, so rely on it as a template. You can switch in other fruits
or berries to your taste, but try to provide a variety of textures and color. Ideally, use a vessel that allows for a deep, evenly distributed layer of fruit. Spread a thick layer of streusel topping evenly over the filling. The streusel can be made gluten-free by substituting gluten-free oats or quinoa oats and using a gluten-free flour blend. You can also make a double batch of the topping and refrigerate it for up to one week or freeze for up to one month for a future crisp.
PEAR AND PLUM CRISP WITH WALNUT STREUSEL
Active time: 25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
STREUSEL TOPPING:
▶ 1 cup regular or glutenfree oats
▶ 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
▶ 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
▶ 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
▶ 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
▶ 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
▶ 3/4 cup unsalted butter,
chilled, cut in cubes
▶ 1 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
WHIPPED CREAM:
▶ 1 cup heavy cream
▶ 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
▶ 1 1/2 tablespoons Calvados or Poire Williams brandy (optional)
FILLING:
▶ 5 ripe but still firm pears, such as Bartlett, Bosc or Anjou, peeled and cored, cut in 1-inch chunks
▶ 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
▶ 8 pitted dried prunes, thickly sliced
▶ 4 plums, cut in bite-size pieces
▶ 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
▶ 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
▶ 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
▶ 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
Prepare the topping: In the bowl of a food processor, combine all the topping ingredients except the butter and nuts. Pulse once or twice to combine. Add the butter
and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse meal and the butter pieces are peasized, 3 to 4 pulses. Transfer the streusel to a bowl and stir in the walnuts. Cover and refrigerate until use.
Prepare the whipped cream: Beat the cream in the bowl of an electric mixer with a wire whisk until thickened. Add the sugar and brandy, if using. Continue to beat until soft peaks form. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate until use. (The cream can be made up to 3 hours in advance. Refrigerate until use.)
Heat the oven to 375 degrees. Place the pears in a bowl and toss with the lemon juice (this will prevent them from
discoloring). Add the remaining ingredients and stir to combine. Spoon the fruit into a 2- to 2 1/2-quart baking dish. Spread the streusel evenly over the top and around the edges. Transfer to the oven and bake until the crisp is bubbly, the pears are soft and the topping is golden brown, about 50 minutes. Remove and cool slightly to allow the flavors to develop and the filling to set. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature with whipped cream.
Lynda Balslev is an award-winning writer, cookbook author, and recipe developer based in northern California. Visit TasteFood at TasteFoodblog.com.
Savvy Senior: What are the early signs and symptoms of diabetes?
Dear Savvy Senior,
What are the early signs and symptoms of diabetes?
I’m 60 years old, and in pretty good shape, but was just diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. What did I miss?
Diabetic Dan
Dear Dan,
The signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes can be so mild that many people miss them. That’s why testing is so important. Here’s what you should know.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention more than 38 million Americans have diabetes today, and another 97 million have prediabetes, but many of them don’t even know they have it. Type 2 diabetes is a disease that develops slowly over decades. Most people have prediabetes for a long time before the disease becomes full-blown diabetes, and even then, it progresses gradually.
Diabetes occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. This excess blood sugar damages blood vessels and affects circulation, putting you at risk for a host of
ailments, from heart attack and stroke to blindness, kidney failure and nerve damage.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
So how can you tell if you have diabetes? The earliest signs, which are usually subtle, including urinating more frequently (often at night), being thirster and hungrier than usual, weight loss without trying, feeling very tired, having dry itchy skin and blurry vision.
And the symptoms that can indicate advanced diabetes and long-term damage has occurred includes cuts or sores that heal slowly, having more infections than usual, and pain or numbness in your feet or legs.
WHO SHOULD GET TESTED?
Because prediabetes typically causes no outward symptoms, and the signs of early type 2 diabetes can easily be missed, the only way to know for sure if you have it is to get a blood test. Everyone age 45 years or older should consider getting tested for diabetes, especially if you are overweight with a body mass index
(BMI) above 25. See CDC.gov/bmi to calculate your BMI.
If you are younger than 45 but are overweight, or have high blood pressure, a family history of diabetes, or belong to an ethnic group (Latino, Asian, African or Native American) at high risk for diabetes, you should get checked too.
To help you determine your risk for diabetes, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has a quick, online risk test you can take for free at Diabetes.org/risk-test.
DIABETES TESTS
There are three different tests your doctor can give you to diagnosis diabetes. The most common is the “fasting plasma glucose test,” which requires an eight-hour fast before you take it. There’s also the “oral glucose tolerance test” to see how your body processes sugar, and the “hemoglobin A1C test” that measures your average blood sugar over the past three months. It can be taken anytime regardless of when you ate.
Most private health insurance
plans and Medicare cover diabetes tests, however, if you’re reluctant to visit your doctor to get tested, an alternative is to go to the drug store, buy a blood glucose meter and test yourself at home. They cost around $20.
If you find that you are prediabetic or diabetic, you need to see your doctor to develop a plan to get it under control. In many cases lifestyle changes like losing weight, exercising, eating a healthy diet and cutting back on carbohydrates may be all you need to do to get your diabetes under control. For others who need more help, many medications are available. For more information on diabetes and prediabetes or to find help, join a lifestyle change program recognized by the CDC (CDC.gov/diabetesprevention). These programs offer in-person and online classes in more than 1,500 locations throughout the U.S.
Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
