This winter hasn’t just felt cold, dark and long; it actually was. The Seattle Times has reported that this past winter was the coldest since 1985 and also saw 12.55 inches of rain fall in Seattle — 150 percent of what would fall in a normal year. Roughly six inches of snow fell on Vashon at the beginning of February, knocking out power and internet for thousands, so it’s no surprise that when the sun came out last weekend, islanders were singing spring’s praises.
Monday marked the first day of spring and with the daffodils blooming, the staff of The Beachcomber has a few local wishes for the next few months. From far-fetched to realistic, here are just a few.
1. Perhaps the most obvious: That the weather continue to clear and warm up. Last weekend gave us a reprieve as the island was bathed in sunlight and the attitudes of people walking through Thriftway and driving along the highway improved dramatically. Let’s continue this trend, we could all use a bit more happiness.
2. Find an agreeable solution to the island cougar situation. As entertaining as the big cat has been at times — it spurred a series of humorous posters and t-shirts — the cougar seems to be losing its appeal as it has been named responsible for multiple livestock slayings from alpaca to sheep. The happenings have left islanders scratching their heads as to why it is attacking livestock when a veritable bounty of deer is readily available. Also, why hasn’t it left to find a mate? However the saga ends, be it relocation, leaving under its own power or capture, we hope it is favorable for all involved.
3. Seeing as spring is a time for new beginnings, it seems like a great time for the projects in Vashon’s town to be made known. Multiple storefronts have traded hands — the former Island Paper Chase, Old Fuller Store, Vashon Landing building — and the Vashon Village seems to be undergoing its own renaissance. We hope that these new owners and businesspeople will create successful places that add to the character of Vashon and focus on the community.
4. Local school, park and fire boards continue to be able to serve community. Each Vashon entity is currently in the midst of large projects aimed at continuing their abilities to provide for community needs. The school’s $10 million bond will be up for election in April, the park district is in discussions to cover the Vashon Pool and the fire board is in the early stages of rethinking its funding. These organizations provide crucial services and The Beachcomber hopes the community can rally behind them to help fund the proposed improvements.
