Swing and a miss at outlet mall

I hadn’t planned to rant any more about the missed opportunity that is Burlington’s Prime Outlet Mall, but then I noticed the sign Horizon Group Properties Inc. has posted, promising a “smart new look and stores!”

Who do they think they’re fooling? A truly smart approach would be to replace their auto-centric design with one that uses a street-and-block system, then build a mixed-use environment that includes housing, so fewer people will need to start their cars to spend their money there.

This “renovation” would be humorous if it weren’t so short-sighted. Across the U.S., grayfield redevelopment into walkable, mixed-use centers is proving to be a wise alternative to the failed experiment of the sprawl pattern, and one that promises a convenient remedy to skyrocketing gas prices in that it allows more people to leave their cars parked. For examples, take a look at the Redmond Town Center here in Washington.

Instead, the outlet mall is opting for faux-support timbers and garish paint colors that went out when the ’70s ended. Instead of fixing their property’s unsustainable form, they’re slapping a coat of paint on it! It reminds me of a “Kids in the Hall” sketch, where a man tries everything he can to get his car started—short of actual mechanical work, of course. He opens and closes the hood, he kicks the tires — he even PAINTS it! See the parallel?

This is far less laughable. Burlington citizens deserve better. If I were a Burlington city official, I’d be fuming right now.

Jason Miller
Concrete


Ranker is best for Senate seat

As a Skagit County commissioner, I know the importance of having effective state representatives who understand our issues and can help us when we come to them with problems. That’s why I endorsed Kevin Ranker as soon as he announced he was running for 40th District state senator.

I’ve worked with Kevin as a fellow county commissioner, and I know he has the experience in Olympia to hit the ground running and immediately deliver results for the 40th District. Time and again, he has demonstrated his ability to understand complex policy, articulate a positive vision for our future, and deliver legislation and funding for our coastal counties.

You’ll find a lot of people on your ballot running for state senator, but only Kevin has the official endorsement and nomination of the Democratic Party. He has the experience, enthusiasm and energy to be a great and enduring senator for our district. Please consider him for your vote.

Sharon Dillon
Sedro-Woolley


Find out why Knue best for post

As teachers, my husband and I have always understood that the perceptions students bring to the classroom determine the sense of learning that first occurs. When understanding, trust and common focus are nurtured, then the classroom turns into an environment that supports everyone’s learning — and perceptions give way to genuine respect.

As the Tim Knue campaign continues toward November and beyond, we are again reminded about the power of perception. You may have a preconceived perception of Tim or of his commitment to serving all of the citizens in this district. Before placing your vote based on those first perceptions, please contact the campaign. Yes, he answers the phone!

You will be gratified to find out about what you and Tim have in common and about his shared vision for this district. Your voice will be heard as to what is best for our children and grandchildren in terms of health and education. Your voice will be heard as to what is best for our parents, active and retired military, small local businesses and family farms, and, of course, our way of life.

Do your research and be proactive about your vote. We look forward to hearing from you!

Friederike Knue
Mount Vernon


A tribute to Floyd Allen

During the past weeks a warrior went to his rest, a few years after his successful battle to save an important Skagit County institution from being shut down. Floyd Allen of Burlington was a citizen with a passion to save United General Hospital so it could continue a tradition of excellent service by Sedro-Woolley hospitals since the late 1800s. United General serves Burlington and Sedro-Woolley, and all of Skagit County to the east and north of those two cities.

In the late 1980s, a movement was begun outside of the area to consolidate Skagit Valley and United General hospitals, with one goal being the elimination of the latter. A furor arose from the District 304 constituency, and a campaign group called Concerned Citizens of Skagit Hospital District 304 was formed to save United General. Floyd became the spark plug and strategic leader. People discovered his natural talent as he spoke or wrote to many of them very clearly and powerfully.

After a dozen years of affiliation it became obvious even to the proponents of the affiliation that the people of District 304 would not tolerate the takeover and elimination of their newer facility, and the two hospitals separated.

Floyd Allen’s vision of what the people of the Skagit Valley needed for their health care was of accessibility and of legendary quality. His tenacity, research and efforts were widely respected, because he built a foundation on thorough preparation and sound thinking.

A living monument to the success of Floyd and his many comrades is a vibrant, enthusiastic and thriving United General Hospital. All of us can thank Floyd and wife Lorene and the Concerned Citizens for their sacrificial efforts.

Frank Salt
Sedro-Woolley


Knue is honest, a solid leader

Now more than ever, our country needs stable, accountable leadership in Olympia.  Local elections are important because they dictate not only how much in taxes we predominantly pay, but how those taxes are best spent. We need leadership that has experience with tough financial situations and discouraging projections. A career in education would provide experience with both of these leadership challenges. 

With increased class sizes, lowered budgets and a high turnover rate, teachers have been trained to not only lead our youth toward a successful life, but also to manage a program full of changing requirements, costs and difficulties. In a society where the health of our government depends upon the knowledge of our citizens, those who teach well, lead well. There is no more qualified leader for the 10th District than Tim Knue for state Legislature.

Having led a successful agricultural program at Mount Vernon High School, Tim was honored with the Teacher of the Year award due to his exemplary dedication and leadership. He has led students toward successful paths in life, from local farmwork all the way to cutting-edge biomedical work.  One student, graduating at the top of her class at an Ivy League university, named Tim her most influential teacher of primary education.

This leadership translates directly to political work, and this is exactly what Washington needs to sustain our way of life for everyone. Tim seeks to have an open discussion on all issues and decisions. He understands that in a democracy, candidates’ records and beliefs are open to the public. This blend of leadership and dedication to honesty shows Tim’s commitment to transparency. I’m voting for Tim Knue, and I hope you will be able to as well.

Alec R. McDougall
Mount Vernon


Fireworks well-controlled in MV?

I just watched the last Mount Vernon City Council meeting. It was interesting to me that the council, fire department and police felt that the Fourth of July residential fireworks were well-controlled with their education and warning programs.

I did not seen a decrease in large aerial displays in our neighborhood. The powers that be think that if the public does not contact them, then there is no problem. We have seen the Fire Department visit our neighbors. As soon as they left the fireworks were back in full force.

It seems that the only way to get the offenders’ attention is to hit them in the pocketbook by writing tickets.

Ann M. Johnson
Mount Vernon


Hope many continue to enjoy hike

Thanks so much for the thoughtful, sensitive column in Sunday’s paper. Yes, the shooting was a tragedy, as much for the victim’s family as for the boys and their family. It’s almost impossible to believe it could even happen.

I have hiked the Sauk Mountain trail every summer for more than 40 years, loving every minute of the hike, (even the seven-mile curvy drive to the trailhead), as well as the spectacular view of Mount Baker near the top of the trail.

One time, I counted 27 switchbacks as I hiked down the trail. This past summer, I realized I was too old to make the hike, and hated to give it up. I hope many people will continue to hike the trail in safety and joy.

Elma Johnson
Burlington