Dispatch News 4-24-2024

Cruisers down Thunderbirds ON THE BIG STAGE

By Skip Smith Contributing Writer

The Eatonville Cruiser baseball team had a rollercoaster of a week, starting with a tough loss to the Tenino Beavers on April 16 where they fell 15-1. Their lone bright spot came in the top of the 5th inning when Aaron Tozier's single brought in Will Sepich, who had led off with a single.

However, the Cruisers quickly rebounded with an impressive performance against the Mt. Tahoma Thunderbirds at the iconic Cheney Stadium

in Tacoma. Despite the Thunderbirds striking first with a 2-0 lead in the top of the first, the Cruisers responded with a 5-run rally. Michael Stogsdill's double ignited the offense, followed by hits from Colton Herbrand, Payton Hanly, and Aaron Tozier, propelling them to a 5-2 advantage.

Maintaining their momentum, the Cruisers exploded for four more runs in the bottom of the 4th inning, extending their lead to 9-2.

Solid pitching from Aaron Leiter stifled the Thunderbirds’ attempted comeback, securing

a 10-3 victory for Eatonville. Jackson Doll's RBI in the bottom half of the inning further cemented their triumph. Head Coach Doug Fillbach emphasized the significance of playing at Cheney Stadium, underscoring the unforgettable experience it provided for the team.

“These athletes have been excited all season for this game and to see how amped up they were all day reminds me of how special these big games at Cheney really are. Providing a

Lady Cruisers can't tame Grizzlies,

take down Mountaineers

By Skip Smith Contributing Writer

The Lady Cruisers experienced a rollercoaster week as they battled through a series of matchups.

The week kicked off on April 15 as the Lady Cruisers played host to the Hoquiam Grizzlies, with hopes of securing a strong start. However, the Grizzlies had other plans, emerging victorious with a dominant 19-7 win. Despite the setback, the Cruisers found a glimmer of success in Amy Tozier's impressive 2-run homer, her first of the season, in the 4th inning. Ava Twedt proved to be a bright spot for Eatonville, leading the team with 3 hits, going 3-4 at the plate and driving in 3 runs in the defeat.

Refusing to be deterred by their opening loss, the Cruisers rallied back in their next matchup against the Rainier Mountaineers. Although the Mountaineers grabbed an early lead, scoring 3 runs in the first inning, the Cruisers fought back, narrowing the gap to 3-2 by the end of the second inning. A burst of offensive firepower in the following inning saw Eatonville surge ahead with 5 runs, taking a commanding 7-3 lead. Despite Rainier's efforts to claw their way back into the game, the Cruisers held strong, securing a 10-6 victory. Aubrey Mills had 2 hits,

Courtesy Tonya Hirn Eatonville' Amy Tozier proudly shows of the ball she hit over the left field fence for her first home run of the season.

Courtesy Matt Koch

The Eatonville Cruisers pose for a photo in the outfield following their 10-3 win over the Mt. Tahoma Thunderbirds.

BASEBALL

SOFTBALL

ALCOHOL ANONYMOUS MEETINGS OFFERED

Alcoholics Anonymous is available for people who have a problem with alcohol. Meetings begin at 7 p.m. Tuesdays, noon Wednesdays and 9 a.m. Saturdays at the corner of Carter and Rainier.

ALANON HELP

Alanon is available to help people struggling with a loved one’s drinking. Call 425-830-0314.

LEARN ABOUT FRIENDS OF EATONVILLE LIBRARY

The Friends of the Eatonville Library operates as a fundraising group to assist the Eatonville community. Primarily, it does so by accepting books and other donations and conducting book sales during the year. All of the funds are used to supplement the various library programs that enrich the local community.

To learn more about the group, contact Mike Eaton at 253-310–7709 or reach him in person at the library any Friday. There is no obligation. Application forms to join the organization are available at the library.

OUR LADY OF GOOD COUNSEL

CATHOLIC CHURCH

Reverend Dominic Chikankheni

253-875-6630 ext. 127

229 Antonie Ave. N.

360-832-6363

p.m. Wednesday.................6:30 p.m.

Also, The Friends of the Eatonville Library Group is currently operating with only two members — in contrast to 10-13 members in the pre-Covid era. The group seeks members and volunteers. Contact Mike Eaton.

FISHING DERBY APRIL 27-28

2024 Mineral Lake annual Fishing Derby is Saturday, April 27, and Sunday, April 28. Up to $5,000 in Derby Prizes. Fun for the whole family, food, music, raffle prizes, kids trout pond & prizes and Vendors. Visit MineralLakeFishingDerby.com for more details.

A milestone achieved in ESD bus services

Iam writing to extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering dedication, resilience, and collaboration in overcoming the significant challenge of ongoing bus cancellations over the past three years. Your commitment to finding solutions and rallying together as a community has been nothing short of inspiring.

The past three years have presented us with numerous obstacles, particularly in ensuring reliable transportation for our students. However, despite the challenges, your collective efforts have been remarkable. From brainstorming sessions to our community forum, from spreading awareness to actively recruiting new drivers, each contribution has played a crucial role in reaching this significant milestone.

I am thrilled to share that, as of now, all of our bus routes have a dedicated driver assigned — a feat we haven't achieved in over three years. This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and community spirit that defines Eatonville School District.

I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated bus drivers, whose commitment to our students' safety and wellbeing is unparalleled. Your

hard work and perseverance have been instrumental in ensuring that our students have access to reliable transportation to and from school each day.

I also want to extend my gratitude to our staff, parents, and community members who have lent their support and expertise throughout this journey. Your contributions have been invaluable, and I am continually inspired by your dedication to our students' success.

Looking ahead, I want to assure you that we do not foresee bus cancellations unless there are numerous drivers out sick. Furthermore, I am pleased to share that we have several more new potential drivers in training, which will help us build up our bus driver substitute pool. This proactive approach will ensure greater resilience in our transportation services and minimize disruptions in the future.

Once again, thank you to each and every member of the Eatonville School District community for your tireless efforts. I am incredibly proud to be part of such an extraordinary community.

Jay Brower is Superintendent of the Eatonville School District.

SUZANNE (CROSBIE) HOFFERBER

Suzanne “Suzy”

in Tacoma, Washington, as the daughter of the late Philip and Patricia Crosbie Sr.

In addition to her children, Dasha Greidanus and Matthew Greidanus, Suzy is survived by her siblings, Philip (Kim) Crosbie, Cara (David) Parker, and Jason Crosbie, along with cherished nephews and nieces: Megan, Caitlin, Caleb and Jessica.

A dedicated member of the Hillsboro community, Suzy devoted her time and energy to volunteering at Hillsboro Friends Church, where she found great fulfillment in serving meals every Sunday. Her compassion touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those she encountered.

A celebration of Suzy’s life was held at Hillsboro Friends Church on April 20, 2024, where friends and loved ones came together to honor her memory, share stories, and find solace in each other’s company.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hillsboro Friends Church in Suzy’s honor.

To offer condolences or share memories of Suzy, please visit www.tualatinvalleyfa.com

Lady Cruiser tennis dominates Hoquiam, falls short against Stevenson

By Skip Smith Contributing Writer

Last week saw the Lady Cruiser tennis team go through highs and lows in their matches.

On Thursday, the team demonstrated their dominance at Hoquiam, securing a solid 5-0 victory. Bailey Andersen set the tone with a commanding performance at number 1 singles, winning 6-0, 6-0. Amelia Ferreira showcased her resilience, battling to victory with a score of 5-7, 6-3, 6-1 in number 2 singles, while Kate Marsh sealed the deal with a straight sets win of 6-3, 6-2. The doubles pairs were equally impressive, with Alayna Meyer and Isabel Volk dominating at number 1 doubles with a score of 6-1, 6-2, and

Jennavieve Smith and Megan Blake sweeping their opponents aside with a flawless 6-0, 6-0 victory in number 2 doubles play.

Friday brought a tougher challenge as they faced off against the formidable Stevenson team, ultimately falling short with a 4-1 loss. Alayna Meyer was the shining star of the day, claiming the team's sole victory in number 2 singles with a strong performance of 7-5, 6-1. Despite valiant efforts, Bailey Andersen and Isabel Volk faced tough opponents and lost in close matches in number 1 and number 3 singles respectively. In doubles, Kate Marsh and Jennavieve Smith,

BEULAH MAY MORTENSEN (COMPTON)

It is with both great joy and sadness that we announce the passing of Beulah May Mortensen (Compton) from this earth into the arms of her loving savior, Jesus Christ. On January 14, 2024 at 12:10 PM, Beulah passed away of old age, surrounded by loved ones in her own home. She is survived by her son, Dan Mortensen, daughter, Peggy Heacock, her sister, Donna Adams, as well as many grandkids, great grand kids, and even some great great grandchildren. She was 95 years old. Mrs. Mortensen was born on June 16, 1928 in Idaho. She was the matriarch of the Mortensen family, who loved Jesus and her family both so well.

Some people say “love looks like something”, and if that is true, that is exactly the way Beulah lived her life. She was known by many in the community simply as “Grandma”, as she was universally loved by each person who met her ever smiling face. She worked as a bus driver for Eatonville School District, and quickly procured the title of “everyone’s favorite bus driver“, giving out much-needed love to every child she came in contact with. Some she even brought home and had a heavy hand in helping to raise. Her big heart just could not help herself from any soul that needed love poured into them.

Beulah took her last breath on this earth and her first breath in heaven, as she joined her husband Ben Mortensen, her son, Ronald, as well as her siblings, Laverne Compton & Denisa Mikalson. Her loving, kind & peaceful presence will be missed greatly on this earth.

We would like to invite you to celebrate the incredible life that was Beulah Mortensen on May 18 at 2 PM at the Eatonville Baptist Church. This is open to all and there will be a potluck style reception to follow. In leu of flowers, the family requests anyone who knew Grandma Beulah & has memories with her to write them down, so that her incredible legacy can be remembered and the stories may be added to a scrap book of her amazing life.

Eatonville Baptist Church 825 Eatonville Highway W. Eatonville, WA 98328

May 18@ 2 PM Potluck style

Eatonville's Bailey Andersen delivers a serve against Hoquiam. Andersen would go on to win her match 6-0, 6-0. Courtesy Deanna Andersen

Meree Hofferber, beloved daughter, sister, mother, and dear friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 63 on March 23, 2024, at OHSU Hillsboro Medical Center in Hillsboro, Oregon. Suzy’s journey began on May 31, 1960,

Jay Brower

Announcing Dr. Vincent Ball

Arbor Health —Morton Hospital’s NEW Emergency Department Director

Vincent Ball, MD, is a retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel. He first worked at Morton Hospital in 2011 on a fill-in basis and then came on part time in 2017. Then on the retirement of Je Ford, MD, earlier this month, Dr. Ball was hired for the director position. Certified through the American Board of Emergency Medicine, he possesses an impressive resume of education and experience. He received his undergraduate degree from the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York in 1991 and his medical doctor degree from the East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, Tennessee in 2005. His emergency medicine residency at Madigan Army Medical Center at Fort Lewis brought him to Washington, which he completed in 2008.

In addition to working in a variety of emergency hospitals, he has also had appointments as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Military and Emergency Medicine at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Clinical Instructor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine and Assistant Professor for the Doctor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies-Emergency Medicine at Baylor University in Waco, Texas.

Cruiser track and field team triumphs in 4th league meet

By Skip Smith Contributing Writer

In their latest league meet, the Eatonville Cruiser track and field team showcased their prowess at Napavine High School. The boys continued their dominant streak, securing their 4th consecutive overall team league victory, while the girls put up a spirited performance, finishing a close second behind Rainier High School. Eatonville athletes delivered standout performances, claiming first-place finishes across various events. In the boys' category, Ky Nation sprinted to victory in the 100m race, while Jacob Simon set a personal best time of 23.86s in the 200m event. Oscar Lopez-Diaz also shone with a personal best time of 55.26s in the 400m race. Colton Rush emerged victorious in the 1600m, showcasing his endurance. Additionally, the 4x100m relay

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as well as Megan Blake and Tierney Amaral, struggled to find their rhythm, both pairs falling in straight sets.

Despite Friday's setback, the team bounced back on Saturday at the Bethel Spring Invitational. Bailey Andersen showcased her skill once again, earning second place in the

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scoring 2 runs, and driving in 2. Pitcher Sarah Smith delivered a stellar performance, pitching all 7 innings and tallying an impressive 10 strikeouts.

Buoyed by their midweek triumph, the Lady Cruisers entered their final game of the week against

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memorable experience for the boys is the priority anytime we play at Cheney. Getting the chance to see our players showcase their abilities and be rewarded for the hours of hard work they put into the game on such a big stage is truly remarkable,” he said.

However, their elation was short-lived as they dropped a doubleheader to the Elma Eagles the following day. Eatonville lost 2-1 and 13-12.

With a 2-9 league record and 3-13 overall, the season hadn't unfolded as planned for the Cruisers. Nevertheless, Fillbach remained optimistic about their chances of clinching a district playoff spot, emphasizing the team's determination to pursue their goals.

team of Riley Hill, Jacob Simons, Keith Smith, and Ky Nation, as well as the 4x400m relay team of Cole Bamford, Oscar Lopez-Diaz, Colton Rush, and Joey Callon, exhibited remarkable teamwork. Carter Taylor soared to success in the High Jump, while Ethan Carter excelled in the Pole Vault.

On the girls' front, Kelani Monserrate impressed with a personal best time of 1:03.68 in the 400m race, while Hannah Bieker dominated the 3200m event. The 4x100m relay team of Nikia King, Kennedy Noble, Kelani Monserrate, and Jenae Roulst showcased seamless coordination, as did the 4x400m relay team of Grace Coonrod, Haley Courson, Cheyanne Price, and Linnea Lofgren. Jenea Roulst soared to victory in the Long Jump, adding to Eatonville's commendable performance.

competition. Alayna Meyer and Isabel Volk continued to impress, securing third place in the doubles category. Kate Marsh also put in a commendable performance, finishing in sixth place. The entire varsity team, including Megan Blake, Jennavieve Smith, Amelia Ferreira, Jessie Zumwalt, and Rilynne Johnson, competed with determination.

the Hoquiam Grizzlies, seeking redemption for their earlier defeat.

Despite Sarah Smith's valiant efforts, highlighted by her third home run of the season and a 3-3 performance at the plate, the Cruisers fell short, 11-7. Smith's remarkable outing included two doubles to accompany her home run, accounting for 6 of the team's 7 runs in the contest.

“As far as our season goes, we have less wins than any of us would like,” he said. “We talked a lot leading into the second half of the season about what we wanted moving forward. At that point, most of our season goals were still on the table and these young men all accepted the challenge to still pursue and push toward accomplishing our goals, the biggest of them being a return to the district playoffs and a more competitive showing this year.”

Looking ahead, the Cruisers aim to secure a crucial win over the Hoquiam Grizzlies to solidify their playoff berth. With matchups against Montesano, Hoquiam, and a non-league game against Orting on the horizon, the team remains focused on finishing the season strong and making a statement in the playoffs.

Scenic photo by Carrie Anderson

Savvy Senior: What to do about Medicare and Social Security when you move

Dear Savvy Senior, Next month I am moving to a different state so I can be near my daughter and grandkids. Do I need to notify Social Security and Medicare about the move?

Relocating Grandma

Dear Relocating, Yes, if you’re a Social Security and Medicare recipient you definitely need to let these Federal agencies know when and where you move so there are no hiccups in your benefits or coverage. Here’s what you should know.

HOW TO UPDATE YOUR INFO.

If you’re receiving Social Security retirement, survivors or disability benefits, it’s required that you notify the Social Security Administration when you move to ensure your deposits continue and you avoid disruptions.

You’ll need to provide them your new mailing address so they can deliver important documents to you like your annual SSA-1099 tax form. And if you’re switching banks or credit unions, you’ll need to update your direct deposit information by providing your new financial institution’s routing number and account number.

If you’re a Medicare beneficiary, they too need your new mailing address so bills, correspondence, your Medicare Summary Notice and other statements can go to the right address. You can update both your Social Security and Medicare contact information online by simply using the “My Profile” tab in your personal “my Social Security” account at SSA. gov/myaccount. If you don’t have an account, you can create one online for free in just a few minutes.

Or, if you need some help or don’t have internet access, you can call Social Security at 800-772-1213, or visit your local Social Security office and they will make the changes for you.

MEDICARE PRIVATE PLANS

You also need to know that if you’re enrolled in original Medicare, you

can move anywhere within the United States without losing coverage. But if you have Part D prescription drug coverage or a Medicare Advantage plan from a private health insurance company, and you move out of the plan’s service area, you’ll have to switch plans or you’ll face losing coverage.

Part D service areas typically are statewide or can extend to parts of neighboring states, while Medicare Advantage plans’ service areas vary by county.

Moving out of a plan’s service area qualifies you for a special enrollment period (SEP) of at least two months to get a new plan. You may also qualify if you move within your plan’s service area and it offers options different from what you had. The enrollment timing depends on when you notify the plan.

If you tell your plan before you move, your chance to switch plans begins the month before the month you move and continues for two full months after you move. If you tell your plan after you move, your chance to switch plans begins the month you tell your plan, plus two more full months.

To shop for new Part D and Medicare Advantage plans in your new area, use the Medicare Plan Finder tool at Medicare.gov/plan-compare.

You can also switch Part D or Medicare Advantage plans during open enrollment, which runs each year from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7 for coverage starting Jan. 1.

MEDIGAP PLANS

If you’re enrolled in original Medicare and have a Medigap supplemental policy you usually don’t have to switch plans if you move, but you do need to notify your provider. Some insurers let you keep the rate based on the state where you originally applied for Medigap. Others may change your premiums to coincide with their coverage in a different zip code.

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.

Adobe Stock Image

Cruiser soccer team extends win streak

By Skip Smith Contributing Writer

The Eatonville Cruiser soccer team had a stellar week on the field, starting off with an impressive win on April 15, when they celebrated Senior Night by defeating the Hoquiam Grizzlies. It was Owen Van Eaton who rose to the occasion, scoring the decisive goal off an Austen Quirie cross, securing the victory with a 1-0 final score. Nate Goode and the defense held strong, keeping a clean sheet and denying Hoquiam any real chances.

Prior to the game, the team and community honored their seniors and a foreign exchange student in a touching ceremony. Bennet Cole, Trent Cressman, Kodiak Hoskins, Austen Quirie, Cody Taylor, Owen Van Eaton, and Ignacio Sanz were celebrated by the hundreds in attendance.

Building on this momentum, the Cruisers traveled south to face the Ilwaco Fishermen, where they once again showcased their defensive prowess, shutting out Ilwaco with a commanding 7-0 victory. Their week concluded in Tenino, where they secured their 10th win of the season with a hard-fought 1-0 win

against the Beavers. With these victories, the Cruisers extended their win streak to six games, their longest of the season. Additionally, they find themselves in a three-way tie atop the 1A Evergreen League with Montesano and Raymond/South Bend, all with 10-2 records. The upcoming games against Raymond/South Bend and Elma will be crucial as they vie for a league title. If they can maintain their winning form and get some favorable results from other teams,

they have a shot at clinching the championship.

Next Up: Monday, April 22: Away game against Raymond/South Bend Wednesday, April 24: Away game against Elma

Courtesy Heather Quirie

The Eatonville Cruiser senior players pose with their coaches prior to their match against Hoquiam.