New beginning for old traditions

Friday and into the Holiday Strait-away quicker than I can ever remember.

Having said that, it’s important to remember that two significant Lake Stevens events occur this Saturday, Dec. 1, seemingly earlier than before.

First of all, the Lake Stevens institution that is the Dickens Fair has moved from its usual digs at Lake Stevens High School to the sparkling new Cavelero Mid High campus located at 8220 24th Street SE, Everett, 98205.

The fair will include its usual bevy of handmade goods and student entertainment.

Please remember that admission requires a donation of a non-perishable food item or cash for the Lake Stevens Food Bank.

Second, Ixtapa Mexican restaurant will host the annual Tips for Firefighters program later Saturday evening, during which Lake Stevens’ Finest will entertain diners with four-star service and heroic tales of rescue.

I can’t confirm rumors that Chief Gary Faucett will personally serenade tables, but I wouldn’t be against it.

I’m sorry that I don’t have more details about this program, but I can tell you that I’ve personally attended it that last few years, and it’s really hard to beat.

Especially for you single ladies – this is the closest we’ll ever get to a Lake Fire Calendar.

Let’s not get to corny about it, but it’s events like these that make us proud to be Lake Stevens-ites (if that’s a word).

We come together to support our community and enjoy each others’ company during holiday events that outsiders may not ever understand.

In other Lake Stevens news, the election season has come to a close and all of the contested races have come to a close.

I know it’s been a couple weeks, but I’d like to give a few Off the Record tips of the hats to a few candidates who went above and beyond.

First of all, cheers to Foster Press’ Vern Foster and the Lake Stevens Family Center’ Kathleen Friend who engaged in a spirited and positive race for a spot on the Fire Commissioner board. Foster (the eventual winner) and Friend took the unusual and highly-commendable route of sharing the cost of campaign advertising, and instead of pointing out deficiencies in each other, they took the opportunity to educate voters about the services provided by Lake Stevens Fire and the duties of a fire commissioner.

The race was close, and either candidate would’ve served ably, but congrats to both for a classy and respectable race.

Further, while I am personally very happy that John Spencer won election to City Council (I can’t think of a more qualified candidate considering the issues facing our community: the man is a former Director of the Department of Ecology!) I’d like to salute Kerry Watkins on a very workman-like campaign.

Kerry took the time to immerse himself in the issues, and wasn’t afraid to change his position as he gained more knowledge. I also feel that no one worked harder at the doorstep or on the sign-waiving corner to earn our votes.

Here’s hoping we see Kerry’s name on the ballot again soon.
So I know this has been a little bit of a disjointed effort, but I’m trying to keep a personal pledge to keep it positive throughout the Holiday Season.

Until next week, I’ll see you Saturday afternoon at the Dickens Fair and Saturday night at Tips for Firefighters.

Kevin Hulten is a multiple award winning reporter and a former Editor of the Lake Stevens Journal. Send comments and feedback to kevin.hulten @lakestevensjournal.com.