Amazing things get done during depressions
Indians in the Pacific Northwest feel a new era of respect and collaboration is here, and we’re ready to get to work with the new administration.
Imagine a family walk through an interesting area you’ve never been, your goal a box of hidden treasure. Your route is directed by the GPS in your hand. Your kids are bursting with excitement as they eagerly run ahead, thrilled by the prospect of finding a treasure first. As you near the treasure, the GPS gives an upbeat sound announcing your arrival at the search zone. After searching around the underbrush, you unearth the treasure.
In 2001, the Seattle Mariners tied the major league record for most regular season wins with 116. They did it with what manager Lou Pinella called “small ball.”
There are people who amaze me when it comes to volunteering their time. They have time for five or six organizations, still spend quality time with their families and work at least an eight-hour day. I want to know how they do it. It’s true I’m jealous because I don’t have as much energy and I’m not that well organized but at the same time I am very thankful for these people.
The debate regarding the siting of a four-year college in Snohomish County has focused on the question of location, with two sites up for selection, Everett and Marysville. However, the current State fiscal crisis dictates that no “brick and mortar” facility will be funded at any location in the foreseeable future. State legislators are now contemplating legislation that would approve placement of a four-year institution in Snohomish County, with the site to be determined at a “later date” when the state has money to purchase land and commence with the construction and establishment of the school.
I recall hearing the M-P band playing Henry Fillmore’s rousing march, Americans We.
As I complete my seventh month on the job as the new superintendent of Arlington Public Schools, I reflect on what an amazing place this is — a rich history and strong foundation; incredible staff doing the hard work each and every day to ensure that every child can achieve their full potential; a deep excitement and hope for the future even with the ominous challenges we face. It’s an honor to be here and a privilege to serve.
Budget cuts larger than normal next year — Washington’s reliance on the sales tax means that economic slow downs cut revenue dramatically. For the first time in 30 years the state has cut school budgets mid year. The impact on this year is small, however the proposed impacts for next year are large. Typically we cut about $1 million per year to keep up with competitive salaries, cost of living and state funding reductions. The impact for next year is likely to be three times as great, or more.
Like most people, chances are you’re trying to spend less money these days. This probably means you’ve cut back on things you enjoy, such as eating out. But as one local restaurant owner told me “If you don’t come in to eat, we’ll both starve.” In my case this is true, since I am known to burn water. Everyone has days when it’s more convenient to go out for a meal, and sometimes it’s just nice to have someone else do the dishes. Your dining out also ensures that restaurants can stay in business and provide jobs.
My first year in the state Legislature won’t be an easy one. With a 6 billion dollar shortfall, no direction for a Snohomish County college, and roads in our county waiting for improvements, we’ll need some creative ideas and even more perseverance to get through hard times.
Now is the time to move from financial rescue to economic recovery and long-term job growth. That’s why I have been working in Congress to pass an economic recovery package to create jobs here in Snohomish County, modernize local schools, highways and transit and help families who are struggling.
This is more like winter. A Puget Sound winter, that is. No more snow to reflect bright moon and star light onto my bedroom window. No smooth white blanket obscuring rotting autumn foliage. I like snow and might enjoy shoveling it if only I had a snow shovel. Snow is beautiful. No matter how deep it gets, it can never be as depressing as rain.
