January 6, 2021 North County Outlook by The North County Outlook

P.O. BOX 39 n MARYSVILLE, WA 98270

utlook

Presorted Standard US POSTAGE

PAID

Mt. Vernon, WA Permit #34 ECRWSS POSTAL CUSTOMER

Real People. Real Life.

www.northcountyoutlook.com

Vol. 13 No. 49 n January 6, 2021 - January 12, 2021

MARYSVILLE • ARLINGTON • SMOKEY POINT • LAKEWOOD • TULALIP • QUIL CEDA VILLAGE

Voices of the Village present Music on the Move concerts

By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com

Voices of the Village has begun offering drive-in concerts with its "Music on the Move" program for its members and the Arlington community. The drive-in concerts are from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., every Sunday in January, at the Village Community Services office building at 3210 Smokey Point Drive, Suite 200, in Arlington. The music program from Village Community Services, a local nonprofit organization, provides adults with developmental disabilities a chance to make music and form their own community while performing at various events. The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted the proSee VOICES on page 7

COURTESY IMAGE

Lakewood High School students help create the 2020 virtual Winter Concert which was broadcast on Dec. 21.

Lakewood High School puts on virtual Winter Concert By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com

PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER ANDERSSON

Voices of the Village music director Jon Dalgarn leads the drive-in concert at Village Community Services on Jan. 3.

Lakewood High School's concert bands and choirs held a virtual Winter Concert this year to bring some music back to the community. The Dec. 21 concert was put together virtually with recordings made before the broadcast and is available on YouTube. The school had never tried a virtual concert before, said Katy Trapp, band and choir director for the school. In the spring the school

worked with an outside company to produce one song, but in December they put on the concert themselves featuring the Lakewood High School Concert Band, Concert Choir Ensemble, 'Swingbeat,' the school's jazz choir, and '11th Avenue,' the school's jazz band. Trapp said the school and district administration wanted to provide what they could for kids this year for music.

See CONCERT on page 8

Mayor Tolbert discusses 2020 and the new year By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com Arlington Mayor Barbara Tolbert said 2020 was defined by unprecedented challenges for Arlington but the new year can bring the first steps to recovery. Tolbert said the year has been tough on most people and businesses because of the pandemic. "You'd be remiss in not talking about all the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought," she said. The city has worked with federal and state agencies, as well as local organizations, in response to the coronavirus. "We used a majority of our portion of the CARES Act funds to help small businesses," said Tolbert.

Some of those funds were also used for rent and mortgage assistance that was often distributed through local nonprofit organizations. "We've been partnering with the Arlington Community Resource Center to help residents pay their bills." The Stilly Valley Chamber has also worked with the city to promote small businesses and provide initiatives such as the Arlington Outdoor Eatery, which provided a place for locals to eat their takeout food from restaurants. The Arlington Farmers Market was also able to stay open longer to provide an outdoor marketplace for local farms and businesses. "I'm very impressed with the city's reSee TOLBERT on page 2

COURTESY PHOTO

Arlington Mayor Barbara Tolbert, right, talks with City Administrator Paul Ellis on Dec. 29.

CHEVROLET • SUBARU • RV Serving Snohomish County Since 1958

I-5 Exit 199 In Marysville • 360.659.6236 • www.royrobinson.com

January 6, 2021 - January 12, 2021 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK

Communities

www.northcountyoutlook.com

___

TOLBERT Continued from page 1

Do you love being part of the community? The North County Outlook is seeking a full- or part-time advertising sales representative to join our hometown newspaper team! Preference is for selfmotivated, results-driven people who are excited to share the many benefits of newspaper, online, and niche product advertising. The North County Outlook is locallyowned and operated since 2007. Please email resume to sue@northcountyoutlook.com.

Get your copy of the

utlook

Real People. Real Life.

FREE at these locations! MARYSVILLE: NCO Office Village Restaurant Walgreens YMCA E&E Lumber Les Schwab Fanny’s Restaurant The Everett Clinic TULALIP: Tulalip Liquor Store Priest Point Store QUIL CEDA: Tulalip Bingo Bob’s Burgers & Brew Tulalip Market SMOKEY POINT: Stilly Athletic Center ARLINGTON: Ellie’s Cafe Stilly Diner Blue Bird Cafe Arlington Hardware 76 Gas Station Cascade Valley Hospital Home & Land Realty

utlook

Real People. Real Life.

sponse," said Tolbert, as most employees were able to adjust to safety measures quickly. "A lot of the staff engaged in remote work," she said, which required some changes in policies and technology licenses, but staff was able to get those done. "The employees rose to all of the challenges," said Tolbert. Safety was important to the city and they were challenged initially with safety supplies, said Tolbert, but were able to receive enough with help from the state. Elected officials also changed how they did business, with the City Council holding online meetings which were posted online. "We developed a YouTube channel from that, which has helped increase our transparency to the public. That is one of the good things that we want to keep after COVID," said Tolbert. Moving forward the city will continue to focus on preventing the spread of COVID and supporting local businesses. "Our concerns will remain in both the safety of our residents and the economic vitality," said Tolbert. The first vaccines in Snohomish County were distributed at the end of December and Tolbert said "that is really the first step on a path toward economic recovery." City staff is advocating for some public vaccine distribution sites in Arlington for when the vaccine is in a more public phase of its rollout, said Tolbert. Currently, the Snohomish Health District is giving the vaccine primarily to hospital workers and staff, first responders and staff, and residents in long-term care facilities. Under a successful vaccine rollout throughout next year safety measures could begin relaxing and big events could return to downtown. Those events are crucial to downtown businesses who rely on them for revenue, Tolbert said. Beyond pandemic recovery, Tolbert said she hopes to continue to support growth in the Cascade Industrial Center. "We're really focused on providing

“

Our concerns will remain in both the safety of our residents and the economic vitality.

____

Mayor Barbara Tolbert

”

family-wage jobs here," she said. With the looming potential of Boeing layoffs those manufacturing jobs could be even more important, said Tolbert. The city will continue improving their road network as well. "We have a number of transportation projects and new roads that will provide congestion relief around SR-531 [172nd Street]," said Tolbert. The city is also completing the design work for an expansion of that road as well, which will add lanes to the section which is currently only two lanes. "That road is right next to an airport, so there are additional layers of regulation," that the project has to go through, said Tolbert. City staff is also looking at a ballot initiative this February that would approve the annexation of the Arlington Fire Department into North County Fire and EMS. The new Regional Fire Authority is meant to help secure funding for local fire services. "That will provide a sustainable funding source for the fire services of the north county," said Tolbert. More information on that upcoming vote is available at arlingtonwa.gov/672. Tolbert said many staff members have helped throughout the year and she thanked Community Revitalization Project Manager Sarah Lopez in particular. "She has been dedicated to the efforts to mitigate the impacts of COVID and the economic downtown," said Tolbert. Tolbert also wanted to recognize the community for coming together during a tough time. "I just want to thank the staff, the residents and the small businesses for banding together … everyone is working on a forward path," she said.

Recycle Styrofoam at free event on Jan. 9 A Styrofoam recycling event will be held Saturday, Jan. 9, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the parking lot of the Marysville United Methodist Church, 5600 64th St. NE. The purpose of the event is to provide local residents with an environmentallysafe way to dispose of the Styrofoam and other packaging left over from opened Christmas gifts and to help

support the Marysville Community Food Bank. Most types of Styrofoam will be accepted, along with other packing items such as popcorn, bubble wrap and air pillows. Cardboard will also be accepted. Styrofoam must be clean with no tape. No construction Styrofoam, please. Dropoff will be no-contact in a drive-thru format.

You Can Support

Community Journalism

There is no fee for the service, but donations to the food bank will be greatly appreciated. The event is being organized by the Marysville Sunrise Rotary Club, Everett Community College’s Students for Environmental Action (SEA), the Creation Caretakers of Marysville and the Marysville Food Community Bank.

Call 360-659-1100

today to subscribe to

The North County Outlook

facebook.com/TheNorthCountyOutlook Twitter: @ncoutlook

Communities

January 6, 2021 - January 12, 2021 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK

County sees drop in COVID cases By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com

COVID-19 case rates in Snohomish County began dropping for the first time since September and the vaccine rollout has begun locally, local officials report. The two-week average for the daily case rate per 100,000 people reached 330 as of the Dec. 26 report from the Snohomish Health District, down from a height of 444 just a couple of weeks ago. "That coupled with the arrival of the first COVID vaccines in the county are definitely promising signs," said Dr. Chris Spitters, Health Officer with the Snohomish Health District during a Dec. 22 briefing. "For that trend to continue moving in the right direction we need our businesses and residents to continue with those health measures through the holidays and beyond, as hard as it is to do," he said.

He advised people to continue avoiding indoor gatherings, to keep six feet apart from those you don't live with and to continue the social distancing measures recommended by the Health District. For local towns, like Arlington and Tulalip, cases have continued to be high however. Tulalip's Dec. 22 report showed 35 active cases and one new death, with six new positive cases and six recoveries since their last report. Meanwhile, Arlington reached a new record number of active cases with 514 active cases for the city as of their Dec. 31 report. Countywide, the most recent case rate of 330 cases per 100,000 people still represents a much higher rate than the spring peak that saw 129 cases per 100,000 people. "We are still in a very precarious position," said Spitters.

As of Dec. 31, hospitalizations reached 116 confirmed COVID cases with 30 additional suspected cases. That is a significant portion of hospital capacity taken with COVID-19 care. "Although the trajectory is favorable, the absolute number of cases in the community, and the branching impacts on the healthcare system and on mortality remain fearsome and we need to all pull together to continue to reduce transmission," said Spitters. Dr. George Diaz, the section chief for Infection Diseases at Providence Regional Medical Center, said that hospitalizations have increased rapidly over the last eight weeks. "Since Thanksgiving we continued to see a rise in the number of hospitalizations," he said. Most hospital employees have had heavy work-

loads all year, he said. "Our staff has been dealing with the pandemic for nearly a year now so there is a lot of fatigue in our staff," said Diaz. Over the last weeks of December the first vaccines were delivered to various healthcare agencies in the county. Diaz said that himself and other hospital members have already begun receiving them. "We definitely encourage all caregivers in the county to receive the vaccine," he said. "We have seen transmission occur in the hospital amongst caregivers and this vaccination will hopefully prevent that. It will also prevent transmission from caregivers to patients, which is something that has happened." The vaccine rollout will continue with partnerships between healthcare organizations and government agencies. The federal coronavirus relief bill passed in March (the CARES Act) had a deadline of Dec. 31, 2020, however that has now been extended due to federal legislation. "We have read a little of the reports about what is included in the new federal package and we are encouraged by it," said Sno-

COURTESY IMAGE

The Tulalip Tribes' Dec. 22 update on their COVID-19 status.

homish County Executive Dave Somers. "Critically it will give the county and the Health District time to spend the current CARES Act funds until the end of 2021," he said. Initially, funds from the act were meant to be spent in 2020. "It was quite clear in the original CARES Act that it was to be for 2020 only," said Somers. "If we had a longer time period for planning we

would have taken that into account," during initial planning, said Somers. The new relief package also includes funding for businesses, the vaccination effort and "some limited support for renters" said Somers. "That is a relief for us all at the Health District," said Spitters, as the district and the county had been considering how to fund a vaccination effort without federal funds.

Mohawk New Year’s Sale! COURTESY IMAGE

The city of Arlington's active COVID-19 case count from March 30, 2020 to Dec. 31, 2020.

All Mohawk Alexander Smith Silk on Sale! FREE INSTALLATION! on selected carpets

Abbey Van Dam Carpet and More

Locally Owned & Family Operated 60 Day Guarantee

“Quality Floor Coverings with the Reliable Dutch Touch”

1060 Cedar Ave. • Marysville • 360-653-2210 1-800-910-2210 • www.abbeyvandamcarpet.com License #ABBEYVD847JR

Mon - Fri 8 to 5 • Sat 10 to 4 60 Day Guarantee

January 6, 2021 - January 12, 2021 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK

Communities

www.northcountyoutlook.com

Marysville Getchell students honored for work in community By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com

Pet

Building A Bond For Life.

Lil’ Ninja Lil Ninja is a 10 month old male Labrador Retriever mix. Lil Ninja is a high energy boy who thinks he know the moves but really is all just legs! He’s a goofy teen, ready to take on the world! He is fearless and up for any adventure. He does not understand his size so may not be suitable for a home with young children since he is HIGHLY likely to bowl them over. He would benefit from structure and training. With a little work, he’s sure to stealthily steal your heart. Not suited for apartment living. NO CATS. Weighs 61 lbs. I AM AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT. Please call and leave a message that you are interested in me. The adoptions team will be calling people back in the order calls are received to perform over the phone interviews to make sure an animal is the right fit for your family. Once you are an approved adopter for the pet, an adoption appointment will be set up. Please be patient, we have limited staff due to the COVID 19 crisis so it may take us a few days to get back to all interested parties. Open Monday - Friday, 11-6 and weekends from 11-5. 31300 Brandstrom Road • Stanwood • 360-629-7055 Visit us on the web at www.thenoahcenter.org email: adopt@thenoahcenter.org

Marysville Getchell High School seniors Skyla Tran and Jenasis Lee were recognized for their work in the community as December Students of the Month. The Marysville Soroptimist and Kiwanis clubs honor two students each month from the Marysville area for a combination of academic excellence, volunteer service and for involvement in their schools. Skyla Tran is a Getchell student who attends Everett Community College and is on track to graduate with an associate degree through the Running Start program. During her junior year of high school she was recognized for her academic success from the college for maintaining a 4.0 GPA through the entire year.

She is a CDS notetaker at the college, providing notes for the college's center of disability services which support students who have disabilities. This year she has been a virtual volunteer for the Word of Thanks program. As part of the initiative she sent out encouraging emails and handwritten letters to frontline workers at the beginning of the pandemic. As part of the FIRST Lego League she has helped bring students together around creating robotics and getting through engineering challenges. In 2019 she was a mentor and team leader of a group of elementary and middle school students who she helped through the program. She received the 'Re-

Skyla Tran

COURTESY PHOTO

search Award' for helping to develop a project plan and then helping complete the plan. Since 2020 she has also run her own Etsy shop online, learning marketing and business skills. Marysville Getchell High School senior Jenasis Lee has helped organize school events for a long time, including working as

Get the Shower Door You Really Want! Hundreds of design, color and glass combinations.

Over 88 years of experience

Monday - Friday 8 am to 5 pm

360-653-9292

1-877-289-8444 • www.budbartons.com

805 Cedar Avenue • Marysville

Jenasis Lee

COURTESY PHOTO

an interviewer and editor of her yearbook at Marysville Middle School. In high school she has served as the Advertisement Coordinator with the Marysville Getchell High School and has also been the ASB Vice President, where she helped to organize events. In her community she has also helped to host community events and interviews. Jenasis serves as the president of the Black Student Union at Marysville Getchell High School as well. She was one of the main organizers of the Black Lives Matter march in Marysville that was held in June and brought out more than hundred people to Jennings Park. At Marysville Getchell she is also a member of the Link Crew, which is a group that helps welcome students into the school, introduce new students to the community and supports incoming freshmen.

Support our Community

Shop Local

facebook.com/TheNorthCountyOutlook Twitter: @ncoutlook

Communities

January 6, 2021 - January 12, 2021 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK

M'ville Boys & Girls Club Several options available to receive upgraded Wi-Fi to recycle Christmas trees By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com The Marysville Boys & Girls Club, along with other clubs around the county, will receive improved Wi-Fi capabilities as part of a new Comcast initiative. Twelve clubs around Snohomish and Island counties will receive upgrades to their Wi-Fi coverage in January as part of the program. "This is a facility of free Wi-Fi provided by Comcast that helps students participate in online learning," said Kevin Harrison, vice president of finance and business operations for Comcast in Washington and a board member of the Boys & Girls Club of Snohomish County. "They are self contained WiFi that students can use for their student need." The program is in response to the increased important of internet access during the COVID-19 pandemic. "We're making sure that we have as many students connected," said Harrison. He said the program is meant to support the community, especially those who are having trouble with the new internet requirement to participate in school. "The COVID-19 crisis has really put many students at risk of being left behind," said Harrison. The 'Lift Zones' are meant to provide more equitable access for all students. "As we looked to develop the locations that these Lift Zones would go into, we could see the need that online access is critical. Especially when we think of online learning," said Harrison. "There are many parents and students that needed access." Currently 12 sites have

____

“

By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com

As we looked to develop the locations that these Lift Zones would go into, we could see the need that online access critical. Especially when we think of online learning.

____

Kevin Harrison

partnered with Comcast to receive the upgraded WiFi, including the Marysville location at 1010 Beach Ave., Marysville. Comcast has planned to install the Wi-Fi by the end of January. "At each of the locations that we are providing these, we are providing free connectivity for the next three years," said Harrison. Comcast officials are in discussions with other Boys & Girls Clubs around Snohomish County and the Puget Sound area about potential installations in those locations as well, but those talks are currently in the early stages so future sites are not known yet, said

”

Harrison. "This is really an extension of our Comcast Internet Essentials program to connect the unconnected," said Harrison. That program is one that provides a discounted internet service for $9.95 a month to families in need and has been going on for more than a decade. Harrison said that with the pandemic there was even more of a need for such services and initiatives. "This will provide a safe location for kids to virtually learn and I think it's a great partnership with Comcast and the Boys & Girls Club of Snohomish County," he said.

The Arlington and Marysville Boy Scouts will not be recycling Christmas trees this year because of the pandemic but there are still several local options to dispose of trees. Many garbage collectors will pick up trees, the county's transfer stations will also take them and residents of Marysville can bring up to one tree to Cedar Grove Composting for free recycling. "If you have curbside yard debris collection service from your garbage collector, check with them for instructions on when, where and how to leave your tree for pick up," said Snohomish County Solid Waste Superintendent Jon Greninger. For residents of north Snohomish County that will likely be Waste Management Northwest. Waste Management Northwest instructs customers to put their tree into their curbside yard waste cart and cut trees into fourfoot sections.

There should be no plastic, glass, metal, liquids, cooking oil or pet waste in the compost cart. For those without access to a yard waste bin, the county's transfer stations are also open for tree drop-off. "You may also take your tree to one of the County’s Recycling and Transfer Stations or Drop Box sites," said Greninger. Trees left at drop box sites will be thrown in with the garbage, while those dropped at a transfer station will be composted if they are clean. "Artificial trees, flocked trees, trees treated with fire retardant, or trees that are still decorated will be processed as garbage," said Greninger. For north county residents the closest transfer station will likely be the North County Recycling and Transfer Station in Arlington at 19600 63rd Ave. NE, Arlington. Through March 31 the county offers a special rate of $5 per tree for those disposing of them. Those with questions

about disposing of their tree through the county can call the Snohomish County Solid Waste Division at 425388-3425. Residents of Marysville can also drop off one tree at Cedar Grove Composting. "Cedar Grove will again be offering free Christmas tree recycling to the following groups at its Maple Valley and Everett locations," according to Karen Dawson, director of public affairs for the company. The company will recycle one tree for free per household and additional trees can be recycled for $5 each. "Residents must show their driver’s license or other ID indicating that they live in Everett, Marysville or Maple Valley in order to recycle one tree for free," said Dawson. Drop off at the company's Everett location at 3260 36th Pl. NE, Everett is available during normal operation hours, which are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. They do not accept flocked trees.

Communities

January 6, 2021 - January 12, 2021 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK

www.northcountyoutlook.com

Marysville Fire responds to possible arson ____ “ By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com

The Marysville Fire District responded to a possible arson incident on Dec. 28 when they came to fight a fire at a burning building near downtown Marysville. Firefighters responded to a fire that was burning at a small BNSF Railway building off First Street. The fire was extinguished by Marysville firefighters. "We had two engines and two aid cars that responded and extinguished the fire. About a dozen firefighters in total responded," said Christie Veley, public education and information specialist with the Marysville Fire District. There were no injuries to either firefighters or civilians during the incident, according to Veley. There was a minor interruption for the train tracks. "The fire did not extend beyond the building. The tracks were shut down for a short period during the re-

sponse," she said. The Snohomish County Fire Marshal's Office and the Marysville Police Department helped to investigate the scene. Officials talked with a possibly homeless individual at the scene and who may be a suspect in the case. "A 25-year-old transient male was contacted at the scene that morning," said Jeffrey Franzen, a patrol sergeant and PIO with the Marysville Police Department. "The male confessed to starting the fire and was booked into the Snohomish County Jail on the charge of Arson second degree." Officials who talked with the potential suspect believe that he may have mental health problems. "The male's explanation led officers to believe there may be some mental health issues affecting his decision making," said Franzen. According to the American Psychiatric Association those with mental illnesses

We had two engines and two aid cars that responded and extinguished the fire. About a dozen firefighters in total responded.

____

Christie Veley

”

are not more likely to commit violent crime than those without a mental health disorder. Officials from the association also note that even when individuals with mental health disorders do commit crime, the disorder is often not the root cause of the crime. The Snohomish County Fire Marshal's office continues to investigate the case as of Dec. 31.

Tulalip Resort Casino named 'Best Casino' in Seattle Magazine's 2020 Readers Choice Survey Readers of Seattle Magazine have picked their favorite places for 2020 — and Tulalip Resort Casino has come out on top once again as the “Best Casino” in the publication’s annual Readers Choice Poll. It is the second straight year Tulalip Resort Casino earned major kudos from Seattle Magazine readers, who also named their favorite spots for dining, travel destinations and shopping. The survey results appeared in the publication’s November/December issue.

COURTESY PHOTO

Marysville firefighters put out a fire on Dec. 28 in a small building off of First Street.

Our Best Friends Jorgia

Tulalip Resort Casino has garnered multiple awards and recognition in 2020 from travel organizations, meeting industry professionals, and resort and casino guests. “We appreciate the recognition by our guests and Seattle Magazine. We strive to provide everyone who visits an exceptional experience, and this award is a testament to our team’s hard work in meeting the high standards we set for ourselves,” said Ken Kettler, Tulalip Gaming Organization COO/President.

We Fetch You More

and deliver it to your door!

New Years Subscription Special!

Buy 1 Year, Get the 2nd Year

FREE!

Offer ends January 31, 2021. New Subscribers Only.

Name ____________________________________ Phone ____________________________________ Address __________________________________

50 for One Year 45 for Seniors Free Online Access

$ $

Send with your check to North County Outlook, P.O. Box 39, Marysville WA 98270 or call us with your credit card number at 360-659-1100



utlook

Real People. Real Life.

COURTESY PHOTO

This is Jorgia who belongs to Teresa Mirante’s daughter Maggie. Jorgia is a tortoiseshell cat who likes to stand up in a chair, looking out the window at the family’s dogs.

Send us photos of you and your pet The North County Outlook has a weekly feature titled Our Best Friends. Community members can send us photos of them with their pets and we will elect one to run in that week’s issue. To submit a photo, please send it to editor@northcountyoutlook.com. Please include the names of the people and pets in the photo.

Communities

facebook.com/TheNorthCountyOutlook Twitter: @ncoutlook

VOICES Continued from page 1

gram, though. "When we first started we did Zoom and that worked a little, but it just wasn't the same," said Jon Dalgarn, music director for the program. He said the online meetings didn't have the same energy or community as a live collaboration. "So, I think it was really important to bring this back in some form," he said. During the spring and summer Dalgarn began a program called 'Music on the Move' which went to a client's home to play outside. "We got our music director to go out to each of our member's homes and play with them," said Vicki Adams, board president for Village Community Services. However, when the weather began to get worse the program needed another option, and they so decided to switch to playing at the Village Community Services building, which has a covered area to provide protection for the musical instruments. "We would set up at the Village Community Services building and play there for a couple of hours," said Adams. Voices of the Village members could come and play from their car and community members could come and listen as well. The outdoor concerts have gone on since the beginning of December and they have had up to 42 cars parked outside. The program can help

bring some connection back to the lives of adults with developmental disabilities. "They get to see each other in some capacity," said Adams. Margaret McClure, a board member and parent of one of the Voices of the Village members, said the concerts don't help her son as much but she sees how it helps others. "They see their friends, they wave at them from car to car," said McClure. COVID-19 has been difficult for many adults with developmental disabilities who already live with a lot of isolation even when there isn't a pandemic going on, said Adams. "If you have had this music for most of your life, and then it's just taken away, that is tough," said Dalgarn. Adams said one of the primary missions for Village Community Services is to provide that sense of community, but many of those programs have had to be paused during the pandemic. "He makes the sign for 'music' everyday and I have to say 'no, not today,'" said McClure. She said her son has always loved music. "He played the air guitar when he was a baby," said McClure. "For a kid that can't walk without a walker it's huge to have that sort of connection," that the program provides, she said. "You couldn't tell that he wasn't Mick Jagger up there," she said. Dalgarn said Voices of the Village members enjoy taking part in making music. "The clients have this

Sun, Moon and Tides in Snohomish County Wednesday, January 6, through Tuesday, January 12

Wednesday, January 6 Sunrise 7:57 am • Sunset 4:33 pm

Sunday, January 10 Sunrise 7:56 am • Sunset 4:38 pm

Thursday, January 7 Sunrise 7:57 am • Sunset 4:35 pm

Monday, January 11 Sunrise 7:55 am • Sunset 4:39 pm

4:00 am 10:34 am 5:47 pm 11:17 pm

4:59 am 11:15 am 6:43 pm

Low Tide High Tide Low Tide High Tide

Low Tide High Tide Low Tide

2.41 ft 11.85 ft 2.71 ft 7.75 ft

4.03 ft 11.76 ft 1.35 ft

Friday, January 8 Sunrise 7:56 am • Sunset 4:36 pm 1:02 am 6:10 am 11:59 am 7:37 pm

High Tide Low Tide High Tide Low Tide

8.28 ft 5.5 ft 11.64 ft 0.03 ft

Saturday, January 9 Sunrise 7:56 am • Sunset 4:37 pm 2:39 am 7:32 am 12:45 pm 8:27 pm

High Tide Low Tide High Tide Low Tide

9.31 ft 6.58 ft 11.51 ft -1.11 ft

3:51 am 8:50 am 1:33 pm 9:14 pm

4:46 am 9:58 am 2:23 pm 10:91 pm

High Tide Low Tide High Tide Low Tide

10.42 ft 7.14 ft 11.35 ft -1.94 ft

11.3 ft 7.28 ft 11.16 ft -2.42 ft

Tuesday, January 12 Sunrise 7:55 am • Sunset 4:41 pm

5:31 am 10:57 am 3:13 pm 10:46 pm

High Tide Low Tide High Tide Low Tide

11.85 ft 7.16 ft 10.93 ft -2.56 ft

Source: NOAA for their Marysville/Quil Ceda Creek station NOT FOR NAVIGATION North County Outlook assumes no liability for damages arising from the use of these predictions. They are not certified to be correct, and they do not incorporate the effects of tropical storms, El Nino, seismic events, continental drift or changes in global sea level.

great love that they just get to put out there," he said. "To experience the joy that their experiencing when they are playing just uplifts the whole crowd," said McClure. Many of the Voices of the Village clients don't have much community interaction besides a volunteer job. "It's something to look forward to besides their work of pushing papers or crushing cans, which is what a lot of them do," said Dalgarn. Voices of the Village gives its clients a chance to perform at local events and festivals and see the community in a way they normally wouldn't. "The average person doesn't really know how much a person with challenges can offer to the community," said McClure. Many are surprised at how well the band can come together, she said.

January 6, 2021 - January 12, 2021 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK

The flyer for Village Community Service's Music on the Move program. "When they see everyone acting cohesively they say 'these guys are amazing,'" she said. Voices of the Village is supported by the community, typically through their

two main fundraisers each year with their Friendship Walk and an annual benefit concert. Adams said this year has been tough though because those fundraisers have

COURTESY IMAGE

moved virtual or been canceled but they are still planning for 2021 events. For more information or to support the program go to villagecommunitysvcs. org/village-music-and-arts.

January 6, 2021 - January 12, 2021 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK

CONCERT Continued from page 1

"We talked about how many things have been taken away from the kids this year," she said. "It's an opportunity to have a little bit of normalcy.” Music opportunities provide a community for many students and having that be missing for nearly a year is hard on kids, said Trapp. "Especially, my upperlevel classes. They really are like a little family. They have to trust each other to play with each other," she said. One of her advanced classes is the last class of the day and many didn't log off of the online classroom on the last day before winter break and instead just wanted to stay together. "They just wanted to keep talking with each other," said Trapp. Trapp's music classes and the concert were both directed online without inperson interaction. "Everything was being taught by distance," said Trapp. "There was a lot of learning experiences, both for the kids and myself.” The songs were taught through each individual student's recording without having them in the context

of the entire group, which was a challenge, said Trapp. "One of the things that is hard for me is that I never got to hear the students together until the video was done," she said. The group knew they couldn't provide the same "live concert experience," but Trapp said they still wanted to provide as good a concert as they could. "I was more nervous for this performance than any I've ever done," she said. In the end, though, she said the concert came together well. "I was so proud of them. They did such a good job," said Trapp. She gave the school's jazz choir a difficult number that was in Latin and an a cappella number, but they still wanted to do it. "I wasn't really sure if they would be able to do it, but they worked so hard," and the song did come together, said Trapp. This was the first time in nearly a year that Lakewood High School students were making music together. "I'm an emotional person already, but to see them together again I just started to cry," said Trapp. "I hadn't heard them sing together in so many months," she said. Lakewood is a small,

Communities

___

“

We talked about how many things have been taken away from the kids this year. It's an opportunity to have a little bit of normalcy.

____

Katy Trapp

”

close-knit community, and many locals were glad to have the opportunity to see their kids again, said Trapp. The concert's YouTube video has nearly 1,000 views currently. "And we don't have that many families in the high school," said Trapp. Trapp also wanted to thank district administration, which helped secure the necessary technology and computer programs, and other Lakewood teachers and staff who helped her out with audio and broadcast software. "This whole thing wouldn't have come together without them," said Trapp. "Lakewood is a special place … now more than ever we see how we take care of each other," she said.

www.northcountyoutlook.com

Art contest connects youth with nature ___ By Nathan Whalen nathan@northcountyoutlook.com

The Snohomish Conservation District has a way to encourage youth to explore the environment. As part of its annual Youth Art Contest, youth are encouraged to explore and document it by making a nature journal. “It’s really encouraging youth to take what they see and not just look at it, but write about it,” said Kathryn Wells, communications program manager with the Snohomish Conservation District. “We want people, especially now, to get outside.” The Snohomish Conservation District has a resource page on its website, www.snohomishcd.org, to provide guidance on how youth should develop their nature journals. “We wanted to provide resources they can do with their parents,” Wells said. Students, pre-kindergarten through grade 12, who live in Snohomish County or Camano Island can par-

ticipate in the contest. Five categories based on the grade level of the student are available and each student is limited to one entry. Awards will be given for the top three in each age group as well as a People’s Choice award. The fourth-annual art contest was developed to get children involved in the Snohomish Conservation District’s Native Plant Sale, Wells said. The next plant sale takes place Feb. 27 and Feb. 28 at the Evergreen State Fairgrounds. Because of the pandemic, people order online and pick-up their purchase on one of the sale days. “Kids are so creative. To see how kids see the world is so interesting,” Wells said. Between 50 and 100 kids enter the contest every year. People used to be able to see the entries when they attended the Native Plant Sale. Since the people have to pre-order plants online and can only pick-up their purchases at the fairgrounds, people have to go online to view the current

“

It's really encouraging youth to take what they see and not just look at it, but write about it.

____

Kathryn Wells

”

crop of entries. Wells said a link for the youth art projects hasn’t been developed yet. Entries can be submitted until Feb. 10. If an entry has to be mailed, then contact the conservation district office beforehand. Conservation District officials prefer youth submit entries online. To access the online entry form, go to www.snohomishcd. org and click on the Youth Art Contest image. Options for entry include a parent/ youth option and a teacher classroom option. Entries are due by Feb. 10.

Communities

...live our lives a little bit better.

We are thinking up ways to...

Newspaper Fun! www.readingclubfun.com

Kids: color stuff in!

Happy New Year, Everyone! I really like the New Year celebration. It comes around and gives me a new chance every year to do a little better or start doing something in a new way. What do you know about the celebration of the new year? Read these clues to help you fill in this New Year puzzle: 1. in Ancient Rome, the new year started in ________ because the month of January did not exist yet 2. to represent the birth of a New Year we use a newborn __________ dressed in a top hat and a sash 3. by the end of the year the child grows into a wrinkled __________ 4. __________ time is used to represent the passage of years; he usually carries an hourglass 5. to celebrate the new year many people gather to eat, drink and dance at a _______; the biggest is in New York City in Times Square 6. __________ light up the sky in celebration; they can be seen behind the Statue of Liberty, the Eiffel Tower and the Forbidden City in China 7. the new year officially begins when the clock strikes __________ 8. everyone’s favorite New Year’s __________ is “Auld Lang Syne,” which means ‘old long since’ 9. after the parties of New Year’s eve, many people relax by watching the big __________ game, “The Rose Bowl” 10. after the game people line the streets to watch the “Rose __________,” which takes place in California 11. friends wish each other a happy, __________ New Year 12. people use the start of a new year as a way to better themselves through New Year’s __________

baby

Fathe

Out With the Old Year, In With the New!

A happy, healthy New Year to you and your family. song

fireworks

healthy

Marc h 11 7

midnight

party

old man 3 1

VIII

II III

VII

IV VI

n resolutio

football

parade

Have you ever heard of a New Year’s resolution? It is a promise you make to yourself to change something or add something to your life. My New Year’s resolution is to do my chores without being reminded by my Mom. What will be your New Year’s resolution?

e exercis

2 0 2 1 2

1 This 2-part puzzle has ideas that you might like to try. First, read the clues and fill in the school crossword puzzle. Next, match each resolution to its 2nd part that would “kick it up” a bit. s 1. get more fresh air and __________ A. and invite friends and family over instead 4 chore 2. finish all your __________ B. and help your brother and sister with theirs homework 3. spend less time talking on the ________ C. and put on a show for your family to enjoy 7 4. try out a new __________ or sport D. and take on a few extra little 6 5. clean your __________ jobs without being asked 6. watch less __________ E. and choose an exciting book to read instead 9 7. develop a new, special __________ F. and spend it on someone else 10 (singing, dancing, juggling) G. and make a chart of your progress 8. feed your ___________ H. with clean clothes and a clean you! 11 9. think about how to make yourself I. and help your parents shop and healthy __________ pick out fruits you like television 10. do your __________ well before it is due J. and help with the rest of the house too 11. save up your __________ K. and play with it every day, and keep it clean too 12 12. get to __________ on time L. and become the best you can at it

room

hobby

pet 8

talent teleph

one

snack

allowance

B B B B B B G B R B B B Y B O B B Y B B BB B B R B B Y B B B B B B B B B B B B B Y Y Y B B B Y B B B B R B B B B B B B Y Y B B B B B B Y B BY B B Y B Y B B B B B B B R B B B B B B Y O Y Y Y Y Y B R B B B B B B B B Y G Y B B B B B B B B B B R R Y B Y Y B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B P B

Forecast for a New Year!

Follow the color key to see one thing you can count on next year: Color Key: B = Blue R = Red O = Orange Y = Yellow P = Pink G = Green

Y B

no no no no

yes yes yes yes

Y Y

yes

Circle “yes” if you think an item could happen in the new year and “no” if it is just silly: 1. Small drones will be delivering pizzas and packages. 2. We will build a colony on the moon and live there. 3. Art shown on computer displays as well as canvases. 4. Cars will travel on the roads with no one driving them. 5. An entire meal will fit into one tiny pill.

XI XII

What’s a New Year’s Resolution? ...

January 6, 2021 - January 12, 2021 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK

facebook.com/TheNorthCountyOutlook Twitter: @ncoutlook

Opinion

January 6, 2021 - January 12, 2021 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK

Our Favorite Quotes

n GUEST OPINION

Hearing from residents about growth in Marysville

It’s no secret that growth is happening in and around Marysville, and has been for many years now. As we grapple with it, what are our city’s priorities? First, some background: Under the state’s Growth Management Act, Snohomish County and all of its cities and towns including Marysville are required to fully plan for expected growth in population. The state develops population projections, which the counties use to establish Urban Growth Areas that show where population growth should be directed, predominantly in and around cities. In preparation for that expected growth, city comprehensive plans must include plans for land use, housing, capital facilities, utilities, transportation, economic development, and parks and recreation. The city’s ongoing work to plan for population growth is one of our most important duties. To help inform that work, early last year I established a Growth Management Task Force to hear different perspectives from local residents and business people. The task force included, among others, five Marysville residents at large with a variety of backgrounds, experience and expertise, three City Council members, and one Planning Commissioner. The group met monthly in 2020 to discuss a variety of planning topics:

Jon Nehring

n Community values and priorities n Downtown Master Plan n State Avenue Corridor Plan n Impact fees and capital improvement charges n Cascade Industrial Center n Smokey Point Master Plan At the outset, I asked participants, “What impact is growth and development in Marysville having on 1) you and/or your family? 2) your neighborhood? 3) the community at large?” and “How do you compare growth and development occurring in Marysville with other Snohomish County cities?” Then COVID hit. Because a task force on economic recovery would look much the same, I asked this group to weigh in on both growth management and economic recovery. Those dual tracks continued for the rest of the year, adding this topic to the list: • Coronavirus impacts on local businesses and economy

A public survey for our Downtown Master Plan in mid-year found the highest priority for the downtown area to be economic development, followed by business diversity, transit and expanded housing choices. The task force’s discussions generally reflected similar priorities for the whole city. As our community grows over the next 15 years, they offered these highest priorities and focus areas for the city: n Enhance community image, beautification and recreational opportunities. n Increase business and employment opportunities, business enhancement and retention. n Improve transportation infrastructure to include more multi-modal options such as sidewalks and provisions for travel with or without a car. n Broader range of housing choices, including “missing middle” – townhomes, duplexes, mixed use options in addition to single family housing and multiunit apartments. Task force discussions were lively and informative. I especially appreciated the opportunity to hear other perspectives and learn from one another in service to our Marysville community. One participant recommended that we “plan based on a preferred future, not reacting to the circumstances that we have now. See NEHRING on page 11

www.northcountyoutlook.com

"For eleven months and maybe about twenty days each year, we concentrate upon the shortcomings of others, but for a few days at the turn of the New Year we look at our own." Author — Arthur Hays Sulzberger Submitted by North County Outlook editor Scott Frank.

n LETTERS TO THE EDITOR umph of the democratic ideal not so inevitable that we can ignore what the world thinks of us or our record.' These words are even more apt today than on the day they were written." And even more apt today, 60 years after King wrote this passage. Let's stand together in 2021 with a renewed moral vision for our community and our nation.

A renewed moral vision for our community and our nation

As we enter a new year and begin a new Presidential administration, I am excited and hopeful about the possibility of reclaiming our country's moral leadership at home and around the world. Here is an excerpt from a 1961 essay by Martin Luther King Jr. that could well have been written today: Jim Strickland "History has thrust upon the present adTeacher, MGHS ministration an indescribably important desMarysville tiny — to complete a process of democratization which our nation has taken far too long to develop, but which is our most powerful We are thankful for our community To our entire Marysville, Tulalip, Lakeweapon for earning world respect and emulation. How we deal with this crucial problem wood community, There are no words to adequately express of racial discrimination will determine our moral health as individuals, our political our gratitude to you. In a year when you were challenged by a health as a nation, our prestige as a leader of the free world. I can think of few better words global pandemic, economic uncertainty and for the guidance of the new administration great loss, you showed your true colors. You than those which concluded the 1946 report showed compassion. You showed generosity. of the President's Commission on Civil Rights: See LETTERS on page 11 'The United States is not so strong, the final tri-

North County Outlook is published every other Wednesday and mailed direct to households and businesses in Marysville, Arlington, Smokey Point, Tulalip and Quil Ceda Village. Letters to the editor, community news and story ideas may be e-mailed to editor@northcountyoutlook.com, or sent to the mailing address below. The Publisher reserves the right to edit material for content, grammar, taste, style or length, and all submitted items are published at the sole discretion of the Publisher. News Deadline: Friday 5PM before publication editor@northcountyoutlook.com

Printing and Direct Mail Services provided by Skagit Publishing

Weekly Puzzles Fun by the Numbers Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. See answers on page 11

Publisher/Sales Manager ....................................... Sue Stevenson Editor ..............................................................................Scott Frank Staff Writers .............Christopher Andersson, Nathan Whalen Display Ad Sales ...................................................Carole Estenson Graphic Design ..................................................... Christina Poisal Office Manager/Billing/Directories . . . . Leah Hughes-Anderson Contributing Writers .................Steve Smith, The Tulalip Chefs

Ad Deadline: Thursday before publication 4 PM sales@northcountyoutlook.com

P.O. Box 39 • Marysville, WA 98270 1331 State Ave. #A • Marysville, WA (360) 659-1100 • Fax (360) 658-7536 www.northcountyoutlook.com

Member Washington Newspaper Publishers Association

facebook.com/TheNorthCountyOutlook Twitter: @ncoutlook

NEHRING Continued from page 10

COVID allows an opportunity to hit the reset button and reevaluate. Community, sustainability, and connectedness will be important.” The perspectives and recommendations of this task force will help inform my work with the City Council on growth-related policy options and proposals. Thank you to Marysville residents Peter Condyles, Dan Hazen, Kristin Kinnamon,

LETTERS Continued from page 10

You showed us what “community” really means. We started out this year, like many of you, not knowing what the future holds. We knew families would have unprecedented need this Christmas and we accepted that challenge. But, honestly, there were times we did not know if we would be able to deliver on that promise. You did. Because of you, more than 1,700 children in our area received toys, books and warm clothing this Christmas. That deserves repeating — 1,700 children were served by the Marysville Food Bank Toy Store this year, a number unprecedented in the Toy Store’s 35-year history. You made that possible, Marysville. Local businesses like Salacia, Marysville Toyota, HomeStreet Bank, Tulalip

Rickelle Pegrum and Rob Robertson, along with Steve Leifer of the Planning Commission and Dylan Sluder representing Master Builders, for your thoughtful discussions throughout the year. I also appreciate the participation of City Councilmembers Mark James, Steve Muller and Michael Stevens, and of city Community Development staff. Jon Nehring has been Mayor of Marysville since 2010. You can reach him at 360-3638000 or jnehring@marysvillewa.gov.

Casino, Walmart, Fred Meyer, Keller Williams, Costco, Safran, Target, Ivar’s, Kohl’s, Subway, Jersey Mike’s Subs, Frito Lay and so many others made this possible with your donations and accommodations. Marysville Firefighters and Marysville Police made this possible with your extremely generous donation of brand new coats. Organizations like Christmas House, Toys for Tots, our local Soroptimists, Salvation Army of Marysville, the City of Marysville and the Marysville School District made this possible with your continuing support of our mission. Did you know that Joe, the manager of Jimmy John’s on 4th Street, spent a weekend entirely on his own accord giving out free sandwich cards outside of Target in exchange for toys to donate? Have you heard about Grace, the Marysville

9-year-old who raised $3,156 worth of toys from friends and family? If that seems like a lot, it’s because she’s a seasoned pro. In six years, Grace has raised nearly $18,000 for children in need across the Puget Sound. Way to go, Grace. Perhaps you’d want to know about the man who handed our volunteer shoppers $100 when he heard about the Toy Store’s mission. How about the woman who gave us five dollars because that’s all she had? We didn’t get your name, but you made a difference. Look around you. These are people in our community. This holiday season, we sure have a lot to be thankful for, Marysville. We are most thankful for you. —Members of the Marysville Community Food Bank Toy Store Committee

...

January 6, 2021 - January 12, 2021 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON FOR SNOHOMISH COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL E. KENNAMER, Deceased. NO. 20-4-01844-31, PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS, RCW 11.40.030 The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1) (c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and RCW 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: December 23, 2020

SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON FOR SNOHOMISH COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CLIFFORD NEWTON SNYDER, JR., Deceased, NO. 20-4-0168331, PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS, RCW 11.40.030

SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON FOR SNOHOMISH COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF KARYN RUTH RAY LIVINGSTON, Deceased, NO. 20-4-01840-3, PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS, RCW 11.40.030

THE PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE NAMED BELOW has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1) (c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and RCW 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: January 6, 2021.

The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1) (c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and RCW 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: January 6, 2021.

Personal Representative: Katherine Kennamer Attorney for Personal Representative: Bradley E. Neunzig, WSBA #22365 Address for Mailing or Service: P.O. Box 188, 103 North Street, Arlington, WA 98223

Personal Representative: Steven E. Hall Attorney for Personal Representative: Bradley E. Neunzig, WSBA #22365 Address for Mailing or Service: P.O. Box 188, 103 North Street, Arlington, WA 98223

Personal Representative: Melinda Hargitt Attorney for Personal Representative: Bradley E. Neunzig, WSBA #22365 Address for Mailing or Service: P.O. Box 188, 103 North Street, Arlington, WA 98223

Court of probate proceedings and cause number: Snohomish County Superior Court, Cause No. 20-4-01683-31.

Court of probate proceedings and cause number: Snohomish County Superior Court, Cause No. 20-4-01840-31.

Court of probate proceedings and cause number: Snohomish County Superior Court, Cause No. 20-4-01844-31

Submit Legal Notices to:

Answers from page 10

editor@northcountyoutlook.com Intermediate

Beginner

Happy You can count on this in the new year: New Year E G Everyone! AN

12 R

E S 11

O L U

T 6 F

8 N S O

H 7 M I D N I E R 4 F 10 P A R A D E 1. get more fresh air and __________ A L W A. and invite friends/family over instead 2. finish all your __________ B. and help others with theirs 5 P A R T Y 9 F O O T B 3. spend less time talking on the ________ C. and put on a show for family to enjoy H 4. try out a new __________ or sport H R D. and take on jobs without being asked 5. clean your __________ E K 2 B A B Y E. and choose a book to read instead 6. watch less __________ R S F. and spend it on someone else 7. develop a new, special __________ 2 G. and make a chart of your progress (singing, dancing, juggling) H. with clean clothes and a clean you! 1 E X E R C I S E 8. feed your ___________ I. and help your parents shop and pick out fruits H 9. think about how to make yourself J. and help with the rest of the house too healthy __________ 4 H O B B Y K. and play with it every day, and keep it clean too 10. do your __________ well before it is due R 5 L. and become the best you can at it 11. save up your __________ E 7 R 12. get to __________ on time 6 T E L E V I S I O N 8 O A 9 S L 10 H O M E W 1. Small drones will be delivering pizzas N E yes no and packages. N 11 A L L O W A N C yes no 2. We will build a colony on the moon and live there. C T yes no 3. Art shown on computer displays as well as canvases. K 4. Cars will travel on the roads with no one driving them. yes no 12 S C H O O L 5. An entire meal will fit into one tiny pill. yes no

Forecast for a New Year!

N G H

1 M

R C H

T 3

O L L

D M A N

E L

E P E H O R N E

T K

January 6, 2021 - January 12, 2021 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK

Communities

www.northcountyoutlook.com

n WHISTLING GARDENER

Time to move your houseplants inside A lot of gares in the garden, deners wisely we can usually be move some of successful. That their houseplants being said, now outside during it is time to reverse this ordeal the summer to give them better By Steve Smith and bring those light and fresher little friends air. It is a tricky thing to back inside and try to keep do because light condi- them happy for the rest of tions inside our homes are the winter. Here are a few always much more reduced things to consider in this than even the shadiest loca- process: 1. Before bringing any tion in our gardens. Leaves that have been grown in- plant back into the house, side our homes have thin- hose it off and do a thorner cuticles and are conse- ough inspection for bugs quently more susceptible and diseases. Check the to sunburn when moved leaves (both on top and outside. By taking special underneath) and the stems care to acclimate them, by as well for aphids, scale, first placing them in full spider mites, mildew, and/ shade and gradually mov- or mealy bugs. Check the ing them into sunnier plac- soil surface and the drain-

age hole for hiding critters, like slugs. You can either remove the plant from the container or submerge it in water for 10 minutes, which should drive out any freeloaders. If you find any pests or diseases, treat them with an insecticide that is labeled for indoor use. If the infestation is severe, it is usually best to part company and start fresh. For plants that you just canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t part with, you might have to wash all the soil off the roots and repot them - which should actually give them a new lease on life. 2. Because our homes are relatively darker than outside, you should expect to see some leaf drop after

a week or two. The plants are merely readjusting to their new environment. The other big difference between inside and outside is humidity levels. The air in our homes will always be drier, and this too can cause leaf drop. By grouping plants together, and/or placing them on trays full of gravel and water, you can increase the humidity immediately around them. Misting the foliage is somewhat beneficial as well and will also help keep the foliage clean. Plants can get just as dusty as all those knick-knacks in your house and the dust will interfere with their ability to breathe, so keep them clean. 3. If possible, separate

your returnees from the rest of the flock for a week or two just to make sure they are pest free. 4. Cut back on the watering. Plants recently returned to the home environment will slow their growth down and use less food and water, so only water when the top one inch of the soil is dry. Always apply enough water to wet the entire soil area, which usually means making sure that you have a fair amount of water coming out the drain hole. I think it is important to remember that all houseplants are native to some other environment and keeping them cooped up inside can be a challenge.

By manipulating the light, water, feed, and humidity, we can usually keep them happy - but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get discouraged if you have a few croak on you now and then. Making them feel like they are part of the family, talking to them and telling them you love them, playing soothing music and keeping them company will all go a long way to being successful. In many ways, they are no different than us. Stay safe and keep on gardening (even if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only indoors this time of year). Steve Smith is the owner of Sunnyside Nursery in Marysville. and can be reached at sunnysidenursery@msn.com.