25th Anniversary of 9/11

On September 11, I had the privilege of speaking at the 25th anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony hosted by North County Regional Fire at the North County Regional Training Center. 

We gathered to remember the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives and honor the firefighters, police officers, medical personnel, military members, and ordinary citizens who demonstrated extraordinary courage and sacrifice in the aftermath of the attacks. 

I shared the story of Welles Crowther, the “Man in the Red Bandana,” a volunteer firefighter who repeatedly returned to the South Tower to help others reach safety before ultimately giving his life. His story is a powerful reminder that when people needed help, he chose to help. 

Twenty-five years later, we can honor those we lost by serving others, supporting our first responders, helping our neighbors, and building the resilience and unity that strengthen our communities.

Hispanic Heritage Month

I was proud to sponsor the County Council’s resolution recognizing September 15 through October 15, 2026, as Hispanic Heritage Month in Snohomish County. 

Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the many contributions Hispanic Americans have made to our communities, our state, and our nation in business, education, agriculture, public service, the arts, science, and countless other fields. 

Hispanic residents make up approximately 13% of Snohomish County’s population, representing more than 113,000 of our neighbors. This year’s theme, “Together, We Are More,” is a reminder of the strength that comes from coming together, celebrating our shared community, and recognizing the many people who help make Snohomish County a great place to live. 

Tour of Nick's Place

I recently had the opportunity to visit Nick’s Place, a recovery-focused community operated by Courage to Change. The staff shared information about the organization’s work to help people struggling with addiction build stability, find support, and create a path toward recovery. 

Programs like Nick’s Place demonstrate the importance of meeting people where they are and providing the resources, accountability, and community they need to make lasting changes. Thank you to Courage to Change for welcoming me and for the important work you do every day to support recovery in Snohomish County. 

On September 24th I was honored to speak at The Salvation Army’s annual Harvest of Hope luncheon about the importance of community service and caring for our neighbors. We are truly blessed to live in a county with so many dedicated volunteers, generous community members, and organizations like The Salvation Army that work tirelessly to help those who need it most. Their commitment to serving others is an inspiring example of what makes our community so strong. 

Evergreen State Fair

The annual Evergreen State Fair wrapped up on Labor Day after another successful year celebrating our community, agricultural heritage, great entertainment, and family fun. 

During the 11 days the fair was open, more than 222,000 people came through the gates to enjoy everything the fair has to offer. It’s always exciting to see families, farmers, youth, local businesses, and visitors from across the region come together for this annual tradition. 

I’m incredibly thankful to the staff, volunteers, youth exhibitors, and vendors whose hard work makes the Evergreen State Fair possible year after year. Their dedication helps make the fair one of our community’s most beloved events.