ISSUE 43 • NOV 26 - DEC 9, 2020 LYNNWOODTIMES @LYNNWOODTIMES @LYNNWOODTIMES WWW.LYNNWOODTIMES.COM LYNNWOODLYNNWOOD TIMESTIMES Lynnwood I beat both Doing it her adopts $112M 2020 and way to make a budget PAGE-03 PAGE-05 cancer PAGE-06 PAGE-06����� Lynnwood may soon lift ban on marijuana sales

Lynnwood city councilmembers are reviewing possible revisions to a long-standing string of moratoriums on marijuana business activity within city limits. Marijuana production and sales were first banned within Lynnwood in 2014.

By ERIN FREEMAN During a Thursday, November 18 work reached out to the city earlier this year Addressing the council, councilmember session, the councilmembers observed to explore the possibility of initiating Hurst says that they need to look Lynnwood city councilmembers are a presentation by Pacific Northwest a discussion on lifting the current ban. at marijuana retailers as businesses reviewing revisions to a long-standing Regional Strategies, a governmental Councilmember George Hurst invited who will contribute to the Lynnwood string of moratoriums on marijuana affairs firm representing cannabis them back, asking that they briefly business activity within city limits. retailers within Snohomish County that discuss the topic with the council. Continued PAGE 08 >> Sheriff’s Department saves money and reduces its carbon footprint

By ERIN FREEMAN meet departmental requirements.

The Snohomish County Sheriff’s De- While electric vehicles are more ex- partment plans to introduce an elec- pensive upfront compared to regular tric patrol car into its fleet, signaling a patrol vehicles, the savings in gas and move toward the reduction of the coun- maintenance is ‘incredible’, says Sno- ty’s contribution to fossil fuels and sig- homish County Councilman Sam Low, nificant savings in gasoline costs. who put forward the proposal.

The county budget, adopted on No- During the early stages of the budget- vember 10, sets aside $75,000 to imple- ary process, Low began looking into ment the new pilot program, adding an the annual amount of fuel the sheriff’s electric traffic enforcement vehicle to office fleet of vehicles used. The anal- its law enforcement fleet. While elec- ysis found that law enforcement was tric cars are not specifically designed responsible for 60% of the gas used for police work, the purchased vehicle by county departments, equating to ap- would be outfitted with equipment to proximately 350,000 gallons a year. suit the needs of the sheriff’s depart- ment. The car is anticipated to cost “Over ten years that’s 3.5 million gal- around $50,000 upon initial purchase, lons of gas just for the sheriff’s depart- with $15,000 set aside for flexibility The Snohomish County Sherrif’s Office South Precinct located in Mill Creek accompanied with a to add additional features necessary to Continued PAGE 08 >> motocycle officer and squad car. 02 Lynnwood Times NOVEMBER 26, 2020 Inslee honored to be re-elected to third term for a cabinet position with the Joe Nevertheless, if he were to leave his points. Biden Administration, leaving his seat in Washington vacant, the state’s gubernatorial seat vacant if accepted. Constitution states that Lieutenant “We still have much to accomplish Governor Denny Heck would together on a number of fronts: According to national news outlets, temporarily fill the role, serving as supporting frontline workers and first Gov. Inslee may be considered for three acting governor while retaining his responders; continuing economic cabinet positions, including Secretary Lt. Gov duties. Secretary of State growth and recovery that benefits of the Interior, Administrator of the Kim Wyman would operate as the everyone; educating and training our Environmental Protection Agency, and next in line. In November 2021, students; fighting climate change; Secretary of Energy. Washingtonians would elect a new and continuing the fight for diversity, governor to serve the remainder of equity and inclusion,” said Inslee. Recently securing a rare third term as Gov. Inslee’s elected term. governor, joining President Biden’s Gov. Inslee will be proving his budget cabinet would mean he would have to Although third in line, if Wyman were and policy proposals for the next leave the governor’s seat in Washington. to secure the gubernatorial seat, her legislative session this December, Gov. Inslee has not addressed any membership of the Republican Party telling the Lynnwood Times that he speculation of such but continues would switch the governor’s office looks forward to getting to work with to comment on his commitment to from blue to red for the first time since the Legislature. serving within Washington. former Governor John Spellman held office from 1981 to 1985. “COVID-19 has put our health and Governor Jay Inslee. Photo courtesy of the “I cannot express the honor I feel to be our economy through a crucible,” said Office of the Governor. elected to a third term as governor,” Elected in 2013, Gov. Inslee has Inslee. “We will continue to fight for said Inslee in an email to the Lynnwood focused on clean energy and climate Washingtonians’ health and economic Times. “The people of Washington change as governor, this platform now well-being. I am deeply humbled by By ERIN FREEMAN have given my administration a unique signaling him as a contender for the the opportunity to continue this crucial place in history, and I will work hard three prospective cabinet positions. Yet work.” Washington State Governor Jay Inslee for you every day, just as I have for the he says that he has much more to lead has emerged as a prospective contender past eight years.” Washington in, than just those platform Snohomish County allocates $1 million towards social justice to invest in our community through Justice, equip deputies with body-worn policing. increased housing, services, and cameras, and otherwise advance efforts The budget will also allocate $273,000 social justice reforms,” said Dunn to combat racism,” said Somers in a of its funds to the county’s crisis in a statement to the Lynnwood statement to the Lynnwood Times. responder program, employing a Times. “I appreciated the council’s supervisor and two mental health collaborative process, and I was proud “While I am disappointed that some professionals to provide community- to champion the addition of Designated of my requests were denied, we have based crisis services and support. This Crisis Responders, and studies on strong community support for making increased funding expands the existing the implementation of a Veterans progress. We know that more must crisis responder program to the Treatment Court and a new tribal be done, and we will continue to do Sheriff’s Department’s South precinct, liaison position. However, without everything we can to make the county providing law enforcement officers substantially restoring funding to the justice system as fair and transparent as with added support and alternatives in Executive’s Office of Social Justice, possible. instances of crisis calls. I was not able to vote in support of the overall budget. I look forward to Nearly half of the budget the council The council also voted that $350,000 be working with the council to improve adopted towards social justice was put towards a data collection effort by outcomes for all people living in invested in officer-worn body cameras Snohomish County Prosecutor Adam Snohomish County.” for the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Cornell, accumulating information in Office, with a price tag of $300,000. regard to race, key data from courts, In June, Snohomish County Executive Another $75,000 for social justice police agencies, prosecutors, and Dave Somers announced a proposed initiatives was granted to the Sheriff’s defense attorneys providing insight into Dave Somers, Snohomish County Executive county department- an Office of Office, as long as Sheriff Adam Fortney when and where reform is necessary. Social Justice, to develop a county or his departments submit plans and The initiative intends to increase By ERIN FREEMAN culture focused on social justice associated costs to the council for transparency and accountability, through dismantling the individual, consideration before an initiative can building trust within the community. On Tuesday, November 10, the institutional, and structural racism commence. Snohomish County Council adopted within Snohomish County. Towards “I am proud that our budget includes a $1.045 billion 2021 budget, with the beginning of budget allocation The budget now also includes an important criminal justice reform over $1 million set aside to cultivate discussions, the council began with amendment proposed by Councilman initiatives, such as body cameras and countywide social justice. $500,000 recommended for the Office Jared Mead for a $100,000 Law countywide data collection,” said of Social Justice proposals. The total Enforcement Efficiency Study, in Councilman Nate Nehring to the The five councilmembers voted 4-1 amount dwindling down to the adopted which the county will analyze the Lynnwood Times. “I believe this shows approving the budget allocations, $100,000. However, next year the types of calls law enforcement is that we can be responsive to the needs with Councilwoman Megan Dunn county council will work with the responding to, intended to support new dissenting, wanting funding to further Office of Social Justice on how to opportunities to enhance approaches to Continued PAGE 08 >> support initiatives driven by the distribute another $100,000 in funds county’s communities of color and to increase equity and social justice the recently created Office of Social within the county. Justice. “I appreciate that the County Council “We heard an overwhelming need will partially fund the Office of Social LYNNWOOD TIMES Contact Information

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Dio Alexander Advertising Sales [email protected] David Schirle [email protected] Lynnwood Times 12918 Mukilteo Speedway C23, PMB-162 Lynnwood, WA 98087 P: 425-308-8371 | Website: Lynnwoodtimes.com | Subscription: $96/Year (Mail Checks Payable to Lynnwood Times at above address) NOVEMBER 26, 2020 Lynnwood Times 03 Lynnwood City Council adopts $112 million budget and disbands Salary Commission through the elimination of a proposed $2 million contribution from the gen- eral fund to the economic development infrastructure fund (EDIF). This elim- ination additionally allows the city to budget $283,000 for Lynnwood to have representation on the Snohom- ish County Drug Regional Task Force through hiring a local detective and contributing $37,000 to the Parks, Rec- reation & Cultural Arts Benefit Fund.

Councilmember Hurst’s motion autho- rizes $1.5 million to be transferred to the city’s Revenue Stabilization Fund, where at the end of 2021, the council will determine if additional transfers to the fund are needed to restore the Lynnwood City Council members in the council chambers at city hall. Pictured left to right: Ian Cotton, Ruth Ross, Julieta Altamirano-Crosby, Christine Frizzell, George Hurst, Shannon funds $6 million levels or if transfers Sessions and Jim Smith. to EDIF can resume.

By ERIN FREEMAN them to continue to move forward in Mayor Smith’s budget proposal also a thoughtful, purposeful, and resilient included the creation of an Equity At the November 23 business meeting, way,” she said. and Social Justice program within the the Lynnwood City Council unani- Executive Department to replace the mously adopted its 2021-22 biannu- Councilmember George Hurst ex- vacant Intergovernmental Relations al budget, cementing a $112 million pressed his concerns with the budget program. While this program would spending plan – a 6.4% less reduction before its adoption. Uneasy with the save the city $6,000, Councilmember from the 2019-20 budget. Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Julieta Altamirano-Crosby made a mo- Department’s significant blows to its tion, passing 5-2, that the city postpone For months prior, the city scrambled to revenue and staffing, he is concerned the hiring of the program’s anticipated address a $7 million shortfall imposed with the decrease in the frequency of Race and Social Justice coordinator. by the coronavirus pandemic, with city maintenance within the city parks. Further research must now be con- staff tasked with cutting costs within ducted before the position’s hiring, their departments by 2.4% to offset it. “We are being asked to pass a bud- evaluating what the Lynnwood com- get without any layoffs, with millions munity necessitates from this program Lynnwood Mayor Nicola Smith took a of dollars transferred around, and yet and if the job title and duties thus must moment to express her gratitude to the we’re asking the citizens of Lynnwood change. city directors and staff for the respec- to have parks that are going to suf- tive revisions of their departmental fer maintenance,” said Hurst. “It just “We have to make sure that Lynnwood budgets, saying that in doing so, they doesn’t make sense to me.” as a city is ready to recognize and serve contributed to the delivery of a trans- the diverse communities that are pres- formative and balanced budget. Councilmember Hurst then put forth a ent within our city limits,” she said. motion, which passed 4-3, to provide “They’ve worked hard to overcome the Parks and Recreation and Cultur- To provide relief during the pandem- the financial downturn minimizing al Arts Department with an addition- ic to the Lynnwood community, the COVID-19 financial impacts while al $180,000 to provide funding for B preparing a budget that will allow level service for park maintenance Continued PAGE 04 >> Lynnwood hosts virtual Veterans Day ceremony

An honor guard stands at attention at a pre-recorded ceremony at Lynnwood Veterans Court played on November 11, honoring those who served in the US Armed Forces. By ERIN FREEMAN ones who are no longer here today. veterans gathered wearing face masks to remember themselves and each other, The City of Lynnwood hosted a virtual “Lynnwood is committed to being a paying tribute to all veterans. Veterans Day ceremony on November veteran-supportive city,” said the city of 11, honoring and thanking all who Lynnwood in a social media post. “We Escorted by U.S. Marine Corps Veteran served in the United States Armed appreciate our veterans and thank them Martin Spani, Gold Star mother, Myra Forces. for their service to our country.” Rintamaki, led the laying of the wreath ceremony with U.S. Navy Veteran John While the ceremony did not have the Prerecorded at Lynnwood Veterans Park, Beam. They each placed a ceremonial usual gathering due to the coronavirus U.S. Navy Veteran Glenn Ledbetter wreath alongside a permanent memorial pandemic, the city still wanted to do commenced the ceremony with an to veterans found within the park. The something special for all the veterans assembly bugle call. Piper Kevin Auld honor guard then held a firing lead by and families in the community to thank followed, performing Amazing Grace them for their service and remember the on the bagpipes. A small group of local Continued PAGE 08 >> 04 Lynnwood Times NOVEMBER 26, 2020 Creek Road, east of the intersection Edmonds suspect in 1972 murder commits of Bothell-Everett Highway and 164th St. SW, the Sheriff’s Office said. They transported her to Stevens Memorial suicide just hours before conviction Hospital in Edmonds where she was pronounced dead. By ERIN FREEMAN Snohomish County Sheriff’s Edmonds, Wash. - The man accused of investigators sought justice for Loomis killing a 20-year-old woman in 1972 for more than 46 years, eventually was found dead in his home, killing catching a lead using genetic genealogy, himself right before a jury convicted cross-checking DNA evidence — him of murder. semen found on the bottom of a hiking boot worn by Loomis at the time of Terrence Miller, 78, on trial for the 1972 the crime — with ancestry records, murder of 20-year-old Jody Loomis, connecting Miller to the cold case. was found dead in his home on the morning of November 9, by a family Undercover detectives then silently member. Snohomish County Sheriff’s monitored Miller until they were able Department deputies responded to the to retrieve a sample of his DNA from a scene just before 10 a.m. coffee cup he discarded in the garbage at the Tulalip Resort Casino. It came Miller had committed suicide, ruled the back as a match to the semen found on Snohomish County Medical Examiner the boot. on Tuesday, November 10. Miller was then arrested on April That Monday afternoon, about three 11, 2019, charged with first-degree hours after the suicide, an Everett jury premeditated murder. Posting the $1 determined Miller was guilty of first- million bail, Miller was under house degree murder for the death of Loomis 20-year-old Jody Loomis, pictured circa 1972. She was found alive near Mill Creek Rd. but later arrest in his Edmonds home before and after a two-week trial, according to died at Stevens Memorial Hospital in Edmonds. throughout his trial. He lived about five the Snohomish County Superior Court miles from where Loomis was found. clerk’s office. The jurors were unaware On August 23, 1972, Loomis left her a couple found her alive but disrobed of Miller’s assumed death until after Bothell home, riding her bike towards and shot in the head in a heavily the delivered verdict. a stable to ride her horse. That evening, wooded area near what is now Mill November 17 was the last day to enjoy indoor dining before the holidays By DIO ALEXANDER that all of us will continue to be kind to one another, support local businesses Restaurants and bars are closed for when we are able, and know that there indoor service starting 11:59pm on is a light at the end of the tunnel.” Tuesday, November 17. Only outdoor dining and to-go service is permitted On the county side, Snohomish Health following current guidelines. Table size District Health Officer Dr. Chris is limited to five persons for outdoor Spitters supports Inslee’s actions urging dining. Retail and grocery stores are Snohomish County residents to “respect limited to 25% occupancy and common the restrictions” to combat the rising areas like food courts are closed. tide of cases.

All restrictions will be in effect for Snohomish County Executive Dave at least four weeks until Monday, Somers sympathized with the sacrifices December 14. Inslee hopes to have a that residents must make during the decrease in cases by then so that “further holiday season, noting he is frustrated restrictions would be unnecessary.” with the measures but that they are 2020 of which 33 cases have resulted remain closed. “necessary to push the curve back “Today, Sunday, November 15, 2020, in death. Greater Lynnwood (zip codes Schools and the court system are exempt down.” is the most dangerous public health day 98036, 98037, and 98087) has an from the new restrictions. Construction in the last 100 years in our state’s great estimated 2020 population of 92,875 and manufacturing industries will also “We’ve done it before and can do it history,” Governor Jay Inslee said from residents. remain open. again,” Somers said. his desk at the Governors Conference Room in Olympia. The following restrictions were effective Despite the broad restrictions, Inslee 11:59pm on Monday, November 16, are stated enforcement will be limited. from page 2 LYNNWOOD BUDGET “We have seen previously two waves part of the effort to slow Washington’s of growth of this pandemic in our state. COVID-19 cases which have steadily “You’re not going to expect state city council also unanimously adopted This is the third wave,” Inslee said, risen since November 1. troopers coming to your door if you a flat property tax levy of $4.3- mil tensely turning the page in his binder. have a big Thanksgiving dinner,” Inslee lion for collection – the same levy as Religious services are limited to 25% said. “We do hope people who want to in 2020. Yet, the 2021 levy will result “We are facing a third wave that is occupancy or no more than 200 people, abide by the law will abide by the law.” in a decrease in property tax expenses trending to be more dangerous than any whichever is fewer. No choir, band, for the average home by $1.49. This we have seen before,” Inslee warned or ensemble performances will be Locals elected officials weighed in on renders into a levy rate of 54 cents per Sunday morning. allowed, except for solo performances. the governor’s restrictions. $1,000 of assessed value, 3 cents lower Congregations will not be permitted to than the 2020 levy rate of 57 cents. “Inaction here is not an option; we have sing and face masks are required at all Lynnwood Mayor Nicola Smith to take bold, decisive action and we are times during services. agrees with the new restrictions and The city council then approved the doing that today,” as Inslee announced encouraged residents to wear a face elimination of the city’s salary com- sweeping new statewide restrictions on Non-family indoor social gatherings mask, maintain social distancing, limit mission 6-1, with councilmember Ruth businesses, restaurant shutdowns and are prohibited unless participants social gatherings, and support local Ross dissenting. The disbandment fol- all indoor gatherings. quarantine for 14 days prior to the businesses via holiday shopping. Smith lows the salary commission’s October gathering or quarantine for seven days also said that the City will continue to decision for a 10.5% salary increase As of November 7, Snohomish Health prior to receiving a negative COVID-19 press for federal funding to support from $112,278 to $124,107 for the District reports 11,357 COVID-19 test within two days of the scheduled those economically impacted by the Mayor beginning in 2021, following a cases since January 2020. There have gathering. Outdoor social gatherings pandemic. letter signed by all of the elected offi- been 252 deaths due to COVID-19 in are limited to no more than five people cials, including Mayor Smith, that they Snohomish County of which 94.4% or outside of the household. Mayor Jennifer Gregerson of Mukilteo did not want an increase in salary due 238 had underlying health conditions. told the Lynnwood Times that case to the financial and budget impacts of Fitness facilities and gyms are closed for counts and hospitalization rates “make COVID-19. According to the US Census Bureau, indoor operations during the four-week it clear that we need to make changes Snohomish County has an estimated period. Only outdoor activities with a now.” Future Lynnwood City Council Busi- 2020 population of 822,000. maximum of five people are permitted. ness Meetings, Work Sessions and “I appreciate the sacrifices that our Committee Meetings can be streamed In Lynnwood, there have been a total of Other indoor businesses, such as residents and business community have live by the public at https://www.you- 1,675 COVID-19 cases since January bowling alleys and movie theaters, must already made,” Gregerson said. “I hope tube.com/user/CityofLynnwood/live. NOVEMBER 26, 2020 Lynnwood Times 05 This Thanksgiving, Edmonds-Woodway teacher and cancer survivor is thankful for life, community and love By NOEL PAI-YOUNG heart and loves her community through action. In March of 2020, Bonnie Vijarro, a Spanish teacher at Edmonds-Woodway This year her community had an High School, was diagnosed with Stage opportunity to give back to her. Her 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma cancer. Edmond-Woodway High School Before she was able to plan on how to (EWHS) community came together to deal with radiation and chemotherapy support her in countless ways, including during the school year, the Governor’s a Meal Train, food and smoothie drop first order for a pandemic lockdown offs, and countless emails and letters of was given. encouragement.

Although the situation was beginning Vijarro was amazed at her colleagues’ to become overwhelmingly complex, generosity, who donated funds through the lockdowns gave her the flexibility her Meal Train which helped pay for to work from home and not have to some of the over-the-counter medical call on substitutes. In addition, since supplies. Her students from Colores masks were being worn and extra Unidos, a club she helps advise, sanitary precautions were being taken created a personalized video to cheer due to the pandemic, it gave her extra her on. Members of her church also protection during low immunity, which came together too. became a part of the silver lining around COVID-19. Other acts of selflessness by friends included: making egg custard, When asked if she feels stronger after personalized clothes shopping and this past year, Vijarro shared that it gifts, furniture lugging to make a wasn’t so much about being strong as comfortable set up at home, and a it was drawing on her humility. spontaneous popsicle drop off that coincidentally during the period of “I needed to humble myself instead painful mucositis, another unexpected of trying to fix things on my own, and side effect of chemotherapy. that it’s okay not to be in control of everything,” Vijarro said. Vijarro shared that her greatest supporter was her husband, Sam, who is Accepting help was a challenge but the Director of Worship Arts at Montage also a big part of what she looks back Bible Church. From appointment Bonnie Vijarro, a cancer survivor, a teacher, a wife and a proud serving community member. on. She is someone who is constantly chauffeur to personal assistant taking serving others. Through her conduct she phone calls and managing emails to had her covered. or quotes that helped her during the evidently has the sacrificial grace and update those concerned, to best friend discipline that comes from a teacher’s by her side at the hardest moments, he When asked if she had any mantras Continued PAGE 08 >> 06 Lynnwood Times NOVEMBER 26, 2020 Lynnwood artist Barbara Goodfellow Childs featured for Artists Sunday Austin, TX - Artists Sunday, the new When she heard the news her work art-focused shopping holiday taking was selected, Barb said, “With the place the Sunday after Thanksgiving, usual selling venues temporarily or announced its top 20 gift picks from permanently closed this year, I’ve had artists and artisans across the United to find new ways to reach my customer States. Included in the top 20 includes base. Adding an online store to my the work of Lynnwood artist, Barbara website was a first major step. It’s an Goodfellow Childs. honor to have my work recognized by Artists Sunday TM as one of their “With more than 2,000 artists from all national top 20 gift picks. Hopefully, 50 states participating in Artists Sunday, it will help pottery and art lovers find picking a top 20 that represented my work. Their marketing campaign diverse mediums and locations around efforts are truly appreciated.” the country was a difficult task, to say the least,” said Christopher Sherman, “In a year of social distancing, Artists Sunday’s founder. “But the consumers can maintain heartfelt team weathered the storm to choose connections with friends and loved the best of the best gift picks for this ones this holiday season by shopping holiday season.” with local artists and craftspeople while supporting individual artists and Born and raised in the Pacific boosting the local economy,” Sherman Northwest, Barb decorates her wares to said. “From one-of-a-kind, handcrafted reflect the colors and textures found by items to monumental performances the shores of Puget Sound. Most of her that take our breath away, the arts are time is spent at the wheel, embellishing boundless in their ability to inspire and with stamps she creates herself. deliver unique experiences that bring people together.” The Artists Sunday movement could not come at a better time, with artists Barbara offeres free personal deliveries around the country reeling from the to the Lynnwood/Edmonds area or cancellation of the vast majority of in- for a flat rate of $10 you can have her person sales opportunities since last creations shipped. March. A survey from American for the Arts found the arts-and-culture sector Visit Barbara’s website at www. has suffered a $13.1 billion economic childspottery.com. hit due to the Covid-19 crisis. Childs Pottery is just one local example, with For more information about Artists over a 70 percent drop in sales for the Sunday, visit: https://ArtistsSunday. year so far. com. Lynnwood artist Barbara Goodfellow Childs. Photo courtesy of Artists Sunday. Doing it her way to make difference! Mail Call: Send holiday cards to Gold Star Families this year To pay tribute to fallen military recommends touching on the service members, a Lynnwood sacrifices the families’ children made resident is asking for community and the appreciation of service they support in sending holiday messages have for their sons and daughters. to gold star mothers and families. “Or whatever is in their hearts,” he A towering Christmas tree will soon added. stand outside of Patrick Crosby’s home on 208th Street Southwest, Crosby will be receiving cards all displaying the photographs of fallen through December 2020, to be sealed service members who died during and displayed alongside the tree. military service. He hopes the Cards will then be scanned and sent community will join him in sending off to the gold star families just after holiday cards to the families of those the beginning of the New Year. memorialized. Participants can mail their cards to For those unsure of what message 6406 208th St. SW, Lynnwood WA, to include within their card, Crosby 98036.

the BIPOC community gain equity students’ needs. all around... I am interested in aiding (L-R) Daniela Altamirano-Crosby with her mother, Councilwoman Julieta Altamirano-Crosby, and father Patrick Crosby. all communities of color. I think that On September 14, the city of Lynnwood being bicultural aids me in having an established Chilpancingo, Guerrero as By ERIN FREEMAN education is the one thing she can give open mind in hearing people’s voices.” a friendship city, naming Altamirano- me,” said Altamirano-Crosby. “And I Crosby as the president of the Guerrero Daniela Altamirano-Crosby spent honestly think education opens doors Locally, Altamirano-Crosby is already Association. Through her role, she her childhood in Guerrero, Mexico, all around.” making headway towards increasing works to cultivate a strengthened moving to Washington State in 2009 at equity in the city of Lynnwood through cultural awareness for the people of just ten years old. Now, as a Lynnwood In her final quarter at UW, Altamirano- her memberships within different city- both cities through driving educational local, she’s building bridges between Crosby is currently interning for driven and community sectors. opportunities, international visits, the two communities while preparing Washington State Congresswoman exchange programs, humanitarian acts, to graduate from college this coming Suzan DelBene, gaining what she “Right now, my involvement is a little and community events. winter. describes as valuable insight into the bit of everything,” laughed Altamirano- political spectrum at the national level. Crosby. Through her recent appointment to the Going into her Freshman year of city of Lynnwood’s Diversity, Equity, college at the University of Washington Following her graduation this As the youngest member of the and Inclusion Commission, she hopes (UW), Altamirano-Crosby, 21, set out December, she hopes to secure a WAGRO Foundation, Altamirano- to center the DEI into all aspects of to study microbiology. The next year, job in policy work relating to Black, Crosby serves the local Latinx Lynnwood’s to meet the city’s mission she switched paths, inspired by her Indigenous, and people of color community and in Guerrero, Mexico of being a welcoming city. mother, Lynnwood councilmember (BIPOC), before returning to graduate increasing educational equity, by Julieta Altamirano-Crosby, to pursue school in a year or two. providing resources to at-risk and “I want to make Lynnwood a a double major in political science and underprivileged youth and supporting welcoming city, a truly welcoming Spanish. “I’ve always been a firm believer in families navigate school systems and one where everyone feels like they can equity for all,” she said. “I want to equipping special needs educators raise their voices,” said Altamirano- “My mom always told me that be a lawyer and help people from and families with tools to support the Crosby. “That’s my dream.” NOVEMBER 26, 2020 Lynnwood Times 07 Edmonds Police Foundation Holiday Dash

By DIO ALEXANDER “It is our joy and honor to include them in our annual fundraiser this year and Gimme a Break! It’s that time of year again; that most hopefully with the support of our com- wonderful time of the year when you munity we can make this event bigger can shamelessly wear your ugly holi- and better than ever while keeping day sweater to your loved ones’ collec- our neighbors safe,” the EPF said in a The Great Toilet Paper Run tive chagrin or go for a run, breathing statement to the Lynnwood Times. in that crisp, chilly autumn air. Support 7 is a 501 (c3) non-profit that of 2020, parte deux! Actually, you can do both this year, be- has partnered with the Southwest Sno- cause the Edmonds Police Foundation homish County community and its By DIO ALEXANDER and Support 7’s Annual 5k Holiday fire and police agencies since 1981 to Dash will be Saturday, November 28. provide a 24/7 private gathering place They say the sequel is sometimes better than the for victims and survivors at on-scene original. Whether it’s The Empire Strikes Back to Like previous years, the 5k is the Sat- events of crisis, according to a press urday after Thanksgiving. But this release. the original Star Wars or The Dark Knight to Batman year’s dash does a twist. Unlike previ- Begins, there’s a lot of anecdotal evidence for this ous years, due to COVID-19 concerns Like many other non-profits, Support claim. and restrictions on large gatherings, 7 was hit hard by COVID-19 restric- this year’s run will not be in-person. tions and had to look for other avenues The sequel to spring’s Great Toilet Paper Run of to fundraise to support organizational 2020 could give those films a run for their money. Participants have until December 31st goals and provide services, according to utilize the same courses as years past to Executive Director Shannon Ses- On the heels of Governor Jay Inslee’s new restric- or make their own route. Each is en- sions. tions on holidays family gatherings, grocery stores experienced a steep uptick couraged to share photos of their run in toilet paper sales. When the coronavirus hit earlier this year, local residents This year is the first time EPF partnered along with the completed time on so- made a mad dash to supermarkets, clearing store shelves of hand sanitizer, cial media. with Support 7 to sponsor the Holiday Dash 5k. Sessions said that Support 7 gloves, water packs, paper towels and yes, even toilet paper. Participants can register online and and the EPF have worked together in will receive a commemorative running the past but have never done a joint Gov. Inslee’s four-week guidelines placed restrictions on indoor gatherings bib by mail. fundraiser. and limited retail stores to 25% indoor capacity. They also closed food courts so forget about eating those deli potato jojos while shopping. The Edmonds Police Foundation has The EPF reached out to Support 7 and held the annual dash since 2015. Origi- said that they would have to change the Inslee encouraged residents not to hoard supplies although Washingtonians’ nally called Dash and Dine, it has since 5k into a virtual event as other orga- dedication to following his new restrictions seem pretty slim. changed to Holiday Dash 5k. The EPF nizations have done and if Support 7 was founded in 1996 to support officers would like to be a part of it. "Buying up everything really hurts everybody," Inslee said, "and there's no and create partnerships between police necessity of it right now." and community members via outreach The answer was a resoundingly hearty programs and public events. yes. Tell that to the scores of empty shelves social media users are posting photos The Holiday Dash’s goal is to fund “We are so grateful to the Edmonds of on the internet. “equipment and provide educational Police Department for even thinking of opportunities for the officers that the us because of our needs and the critical You’d think that in an area as vast as the Puget Sound with its progressive City of Edmonds budget could not work we do,” Sessions told the Lyn- social values that there wouldn’t be a toilet paper drought since you know… support,” the EPF told the Lynnwood nwood Times. sharing is caring. We’re all taught from an early age that selfishly hoarding Times. “They’ve been gracious with their time items during a shortage crisis isn’t a nice thing to do. and energy,” Sessions said. “Now we The EPF praised Support 7 for being get to be a part of it.” It turns out, from the scores of pictures online that many are drowning in toilet a “huge blessing” to South Snohomish paper, some even fiending over it like Gollum to that precious ring! County by helping those “in deep cri- All proceeds from the dash go towards sis.” the Edmonds Police Foundation and Support 7. According to the new restrictions, you can’t have guests over this holiday sea- son so you might as well reserve the Thanksgiving seat of honor for a 36-pack of toilet paper. Talk about something to be thankful for!

Charmin, a major toilet paper company, said in a November 11 press release that they will continue to produce and ship their products 24/7.

“Yet, still today, consumers are purchasing at record levels.”

Even in a year like 2020, consumers buying toilet paper at “record levels” (again) doesn’t seem that far-fetched.

This go around, 21% of paper products like toilet paper and paper towels were out of stock during the week ending November 15 according to Information Resources Inc., a national market research firm. In a typical period, around 5% of those products are out of stock.

Local Kroger affiliates Fred Meyer and QFC allow customers to purchase a maximum of two items each of paper towels, disinfecting wipes and hand soap.

Not to mention…you guessed it…toilet paper!

Walmart CEO Doug McMillon claimed that Walmart is better prepared to han- dle this season’s cannonball run by consumers and will not order toilet paper rationing at stores. McMillon offered words of encouragement to consumers who are stressing over if buying that eighth pack of toilet paper might be overkill.

“It feels to me like we’ll work through this period of time better than we did in the first wave,” McMillon said.

Especially if you stock up on toilet paper. Then everything will be ok.

Just potentially not at Wal-Mart, though. Already the corporate giant reports that, despite building up their toilet paper stock since this year’s earlier run on toilet paper, they are once again reporting that stores in areas with case spikes are experiencing empty shelf syndrome.

Then again, sometimes the sequel falls flatter than 1994’s Leprechaun 2. Only time will tell whether this holiday season’s sequel to the spring’s Great Toilet Paper Run of 2020 is akin to box-office smash Terminator 2: Judgement Day, or if this sequel peters out like Speed 2: Cruise Control. 08 Lynnwood Times NOVEMBER 26, 2020

from page 1 MARIJUANA SALES combination of population and retail the community to understand that these Councilmembers Christine Frizzell sales. Then 50% is given to the city and stores are regular businesses and they community, adding he would be glad and Shannon Sessions spoke hesitantly 50% is given to the county. The annual don’t have a disproportionate effect on to see them able to work within city about the possibility of reversing the distribution for neighboring cities crime,” said Estes. limits moratorium, explaining that they didn’t with similar populations ranges from feel as though they were presented $65,000 in Mount Vernon, $71,000 in Councilmember Sessions responded “Times are changing, and the cannabis with new information from what was Edmonds, $77,000 in Issaquah, and saying that she has yet to see definite industry has changed and has really introduced years ago. $91,000 in Longview. proof that cannabis establishments have grown into an everyday business,” lower burglaries across jurisdictions. said Hurst. “They are businesspeople... “I think we need more conversation,” “I think it’s a little disingenuous to say these are local owners and they wish said Frizzell. “We just need to that it’s going to bring us a lot of money “I still haven’t seen proof that they to come into the woods and be able remember why council came to the when we’re not sure yet how much that do not bring more crime in the city,” to be a vibrant business within our decision that they did… and see if would be,” said Sessions. “And then said Sessions. “I know you mentioned community… let’s not let the past there really is a big reason to say yes... it also depends on how many stores, that stats in Everett but that tells me dictate our future.” we’re not alone, we’re not the only would decide as well.” that they are better than some other ones out there that say no, we don’t establishments which to me isn’t really The maximum number of marijuana want a marijuana store. On October 14, the Everett City the best answer. That’s not the answer I licenses allowed authorization within a Council approved the revision of a want to hear.” city is determined by the Washington Councilmember Ruth Ross, who was city ordinance, limiting the number State Liquor and Cannabis Board, also on council during the original of retail marijuana shops allowed in Councilmember Ian Cotton mentioned which has set Lynnwood’s at four. moratorium, said she didn’t then the city. The decision added three his participation in the initiation of the and still doesn’t pose opposition to additional cannabis stores within city moratorium, explaining it was largely During a September 14 council marijuana retailers within the city. limits, increasing the number of retail in response to the unknowns associated meeting, Hurst mentioned that two stores from five to eight. The Liquor early on with the inception of the potential cannabis licensees have been “I don’t think the vast majority of and Cannabis Board set the maximum industry inside of cities. anticipating if and when they can people in Lynnwood care either,” she number of marijuana licenses in Everett initiate business within the city and stated. “It’s not an issue to me.” to 10, but local governments have the “I think a lot of those unknowns have that they should have been allowed to authority to impose stricter limits. become knowns and they’ve become for the past five years. In Washington state, 30% or 82 cities quantifiable,” said Cotton. “I think — prohibit marijuana retailers. There Early on with their work in the city further discussion amongst councils is Marijuana production and sales were are 16 cannabis retailers within six of Everett, Estes says they struggled necessary. first banned within Lynnwood in 2014 miles of city hall, noted Frizzell. with getting the public and the after a public hearing influenced the Everett City Council comfortable If the discussion is continued, adoption of a temporary six-month New marijuana retail revenue with understanding the impact Thursday’s presentation will be the first ordinance. Four more six-month partnerships provide several key marijuana production and retail of several planned conversations into extensions then followed suit between economic benefits to the local economy, has on a city’s crime and calls for allowing marijuana retail into the city. 2014-15. said Josh Estes, a managing partner of service. In response, the Everett Moving the conversation forward, the Pacific Northwest Regional strategies. council approached their public safety council will establish a draft ordinance In June of 2015, the then-council subcommittee, and through a series of to allow retail marijuana in city limits, passed an ordinance prohibiting the One such economic benefit cited is the public safety meetings with the Liquor not to exceed the number allocated retail sale, production, and processing collection of tax revenue from retail Control Board and the Everett Police to the city by the Washington State of marijuana and marijuana-infused sales. This revenue is collected by the Department’s crime analysis unit, they Liquor and Cannabis Board. A council products, as well as medical marijuana state, with a portion then redistributed found that cannabis-related calls for discussion and public hearing period collective gardens. Four years later, back to the cities and counties that do service were reduced when compared will commence, followed by possible in 2019, zoning regulations were not prevent cannabis stores. The amount to other types of 21+ establishment. council action. amended to prohibit these activities given back to each city and county within the Lynnwood City Center. is calculated, determined based on a “Number one is getting the council and from page 1 ELECTRIC VEHICLE in two to three years. With a driving for over two years. formance and safety. range of about 300 miles per charge, with some vehicle models lasting up- “All of us care about our environ- “In the last few years, we’ve seen some ment,” commented Low. wards of 500,000 miles before needing ment… This is just another step in significant changes in the electric ve- to be replaced, Low says the sheriff’s being good environmental stewards,” hicle industry,” explained Low. “They Other law enforcement departments department may get more use out of said Low. “There’s a huge expense now have electric vehicles that are throughout the county have already an electric car compared to a gasoline around fossil fuels and if this program comparable in safety and performance begun adding electric vehicles to their vehicle. takes off, there could be significant of a regular patrol vehicle.” fleets. After purchasing and using a savings with a lot less usage of fossil Tesla Model 3, Indiana’s Bargersville It wasn’t just the cost savings that led fuels.” Once the car is purchased and opera- Police Department documented a first- the council to the car, as there are also tional in 2021, the sheriff’s office will year annual savings of $6,750, noted environmental benefits. Electric vehi- Low says that the county has consid- report to the county council document- Low. cles have a significantly lower carbon ered implementing hybrid vehicles in ing the vehicle’s performance for six footprint compared to their gas coun- the past, but the decision has always months. The council will then have the With savings in fuel, Low anticipates terparts, said Low, who has been driv- boiled down to vehicle capacity for opportunity to examine continued in- that the vehicle will pay for itself with- ing his own electric personal vehicle meeting conventional police car per- vestment in the pilot program. from page 3 VETERANS DAY coordinator U.S. Marine Corps Veteran from page 5 BONNIE VIJARRO family. Martin Spani. U.S. Army Veteran Frank Martinez, hardest times of treatment, Vijarro said However, this Thanksgiving will look with seven members performing the To further connect with local veterans, music and reading the Psalms. Even different. She will enjoy spending three-volley salute, honoring late the city of Lynnwood posted videos to when her oxygen levels were low and quarantine with her husband, mom, veterans. Wednesday’s ceremony ended its Facebook page, spotlighting four lungs weak, she would still sing hymns and her brother’s family. with echo taps performed by Ledbetter veterans to learn about how they are and songs of praise. Singing is close to and U.S. Coast Guard Veteran Lukas doing, how they are coping throughout her heart as she comes from a musical Vijarro has completed the most Breen. the pandemic, and what local veterans family who enjoys singing together, challenging part of her treatment and need. Those conversations can be especially during family gatherings. is now undergoing immunotherapy The city of Lynnwood extended its found here: https://www.facebook.com/ every few weeks until the expected special thanks to all veterans who LynnwoodWA. Typically for Thanksgiving, the completion date of May 2021. participated, as well as the ceremony Vijarro’s look forward to a two-day celebration enjoying her mom’s apple Bonnie Vijarro is a testament that pie and sweet potatoes, playing games if there’s anything that can get you from page 2 SOCIAL JUSTICE Executive Somers notes that with nieces and nephews, watching through 2020 while having cancer, Snohomish County’s leadership, inside A Charlie Brown Christmas, playing it’s community, songs of praise, and a of the community while maintaining a and outside of county government, is lots of instruments, and singing with thankful heart. balanced budget.” committed to advancing social justice throughout the community. The Lynnwood Times additionally reached out to Councilmembers Sam “We have many strong partners, both Low, Jared Mead, and Stephanie inside and outside of government, to Wright for statements relating to the help us with this work,” said Somers. disbursement of funds towards social “We want Snohomish County to be justice initiatives in the Snohomish a model for social justice across the County 2021 budget but did not receive region, ensuring we serve all in our a response. community.”