Skagit Valley College instructor Keri Palasz brings home silver at international yoga championship
Mount Vernon, WASH. – Skagit Valley College (SVC) instructor Keri Palasz recently represented the U.S. on the world stage—earning 2nd place at the International Yoga Sports Federation (IYSF) World Yoga Championship held April 5-6, 2025, at Limkokwing University in Malaysia. Palasz was also one of 20 athletes invited to participate in the event’s Global Demonstration Team, helping close the championship with a message of peace and unity. More than 150 athletes from 22 nations competed at this prestigious
Housing infrastructure grants workshop set for July 10
Commerce will begin accepting applications for Connecting Housing to Infrastructure Program (CHIP) grants next month, and an application workshop is scheduled July 10. CHIP is a competitive grant program that helps local governments encourage the creation of affordable housing. It works by reducing or covering the cost of drinking water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure associated with housing development.Virtual application workshop July 10 The virtual application workshop will present program
Lang’s Horse and Pony Farm Celebrates 50 Years of Family-Owned Excellence
Mount Vernon, WA — June 2025 — Lang’s Horse and Pony Farm, a cherished family-owned business dedicated to providing equine experiences for all ages, is proud to celebrate its 50th anniversary this year. Since opening in 1975, Lang’s has served Skagit County with unwavering dedication, integrity, and a passion for making horseback riding accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Founded by Harry and Dolores Lang, the farm began as a small pony business and has since grown into a beloved local institution.
Pioneer Picnic, a La Conner summer tradition, scheduled Aug. 7
As has been the case for more than a century, history comes alive in La Conner again this summer. The 121st Skagit County Pioneer Association Picnic and General Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 7, at 11:15 a.m., at Pioneer Park near the Rainbow Bridge. The time-honored program promises something for people of all ages. There will be live music on the grounds, historic photographs and biographical accounts of this year’s Pioneer Families of the Year and Pioneer Spirit Award recipients,
Two Skagit Valley College students selected for prestigious chemistry research program at WWU
Mount Vernon, WASH. – Skagit Valley College (SVC) students Owen Reeder and Camden Losey will spend this summer conducting chemistry research through one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected undergraduate programs—the National Science Foundation-funded Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program at Western Washington University (WWU). It offers undergraduates the chance to work alongside university faculty and researchers on real-world chemistry projects. Participants also gain valuable
Call for Applications for Skagit County Planning Commission
The Planning Commission works with the Planning and Development Services Department and advises the Department and the Board of County Commissioners on proposed land use plans and regulations in unincorporated Skagit County. The Planning Commission will be working through updates to Skagit County’s agritourism policies this fall. For more information about current Planning Commission work items, please visit: www.skagitcounty.net/Departments/PlanningAndPermit/communplan.htm The Planning Commission
CASCADIA Collaborates with Ravenna Press for Anthology
Are you a poet? A writer? Did you attend this year's in person festival? Or watch the films during the online version of the festival? If so, we invite you to submit a written piece about your experience in response to the films or the festival itself for consideration in the upcoming ekphrastic anthology: STILLS: Where Cinema and Poetry Meet.This exciting new project is a collaboration with Ravenna Press and will result in the publication of an anthology of poetry and short prose pieces by writers
County employment data for May 2025 released
OLYMPIA – County unemployment rates and employment data for May 2025 are now available on the Employment Security Department website. Visit the labor force page to view historic and current data on the unemployment rate. To learn more about monthly job gains and losses from payroll data, check out the employment estimates.Please keep in mind: Unemployment rates and employment estimates at the county level are not seasonally adjusted because the sample size is too small to accommodate the additional
County Commissioners Award Economic Development Funds to Workforce Housing Projects
On Monday, June 16th, the Skagit County Commissioners approved economic development public facilities funding for three workforce housing projects, adding 65 new rental housing units in Anacortes, Mount Vernon, and Sedro-Woolley. Economic development grants are funded through the county’s rural economic development sales and use tax collections. Historically these funds have been used for public facilities and capital projects which include a nexus to job creation or retention. Based on a recent change
Washington state unemployment rate increases slightly to 4.5%
OLYMPIA – Washington’s economy increased by an estimated 400 jobs (seasonally adjusted) in May 2025, and the monthly unemployment rate increased slightly to 4.5%. “The Washington economy picked up 400 jobs in May – a slight increase following three consecutive months of net job losses. Total nonfarm employment in May 2025 was down relative to May 2024. Job growth has effectively stalled,” said Anneliese Vance-Sherman, chief labor economist at the Employment Security Department. She added, “The number of
1Though the Light: The Sublime in Contemporary Northwest Art
Through the Light: The Sublime in Contemporary Northwest Art features works by Drie Chapek, Ellen George, Weston Lambert, Camas Logue, Adam Sorensen, and KCJ Szwedzinski. These artists view nature through a unique lens tied to various elements found in our world: light, water, earth, and energy. Contrary to earlier understandings of the sublime, they have an intimate and personal connection with nature. They provide viewers with an insight into the complexities of nature by creating small moments with
Skagit Valley College’s Cardinal Craft Brewing program wins two international awards
Mount Vernon, WASH. — Skagit Valley College’s Cardinal Craft Brewing (CCB) program earned two major awards at the prestigious 2025 North American Brewers Association (NABA) International Beer Awards, reaffirming the program’s reputation for producing high-quality craft beer—and preparing the next generation of brewing professionals. The competition results were announced on June 6, with CCB receiving a gold medal for the Vienna Lager in the American Amber Lager category and a bronze medal for the Brown Ale
Skagit County Commissioners Statement on U.S. Department of Labor's Decision to Close Job Corps Center
We are incredibly dismayed by the U.S. Department of Labor’s decision to close Job Corps centers nationwide, including our locally operated Cascade Job Corps in Sedro-Woolley. Job Corps is the largest residential career training and education program for low-income young adults ages 16 through 24 in the country. In addition to helping young adults build a pathway to a better life through education, training, and community, it offers tuition-free housing, meals, basic health care, a living allowance, and
Provide feedback on Washington’s draft Comprehensive Climate Action Plan
Attend the kick-off meeting, listening sessions, or complete the public comment form. Washington has made progress on climate action and setting emissions limits, but we haven't had a comprehensive, economy-wide climate plan in more than a decade. The Comprehensive Climate Action Plan (CCAP) serves as a roadmap for reducing emissions and building a sustainable future. It evaluates current policies, incorporates community input, and recommends new strategies developed through broad collaboration with
SVC to celebrate 2025 graduates at its 98th annual commencement ceremonies
Mount Vernon, WASH. — Skagit Valley College’s class of 2025 will walk across the stage for their diplomas, degrees, and certificates this week. SVC is proudly celebrating the 98th graduating class at its four ceremonies. The first ceremony for San Juan Center graduates will be held at Brickworks in Friday Harbor on June 17, two ceremonies for the Mount Vernon campus graduates is in the Dave DuVall Pavilion on June 18, and a ceremony for the Whidbey Island campus graduates is at Oak Harbor High School on
Skagit County Solicits Public Input on Proposed Revisions to Skagit County Code Chapter 12.05 Relating to On-Site Sewage Systems
The Skagit County Board of Health is now soliciting public comment on proposed revisions to Skagit County Code Chapter 12.05 relating to on-site sewage systems. These updates are necessary in order to align with and meet the requirements of recent amendments to Washington Administrative Code. Proposed revisions include clarifying procedures and requirements for on-site sewage design, installation and inspections, updating educational requirements and levels of expertise for on-site sewage providers,
Diaper Bank Stuff the Bus Volunteers NEEDED at the Fair
Date/time: Thursday, August 7th, 2025 10am-5pmFecha/horario: Jueves, 7 de Agosto 2025 10am- 5pmLocation/ ubicación: 1401 Cleveland Street Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Join United Way and Skagit Transit at the Skagit County Fairgrounds as we Stuff the Bus with diaper supplies for the Diaper Bank of Skagit County! ¡Únete a United Way y Skagit Transit en la Ferial del Condado de Skagit mientras llenamos el autobús con pañales para el Banco de Pañales del Condado de Skagit! *While supplies last / 1 free fair
Second webinar for state workers to learn about Washington benefits and reemployment services set for June 25
OLYMPIA – The Employment Security Department, along with state and local partners, will host a layoff assistance webinar for state of Washington employees and contractors. The webinar is scheduled from 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 25. Registration is free and is open until the event starts. There is no limit to the number of participants who can register. Register for the June 25 webinar. The webinars, part of the state’s rapid response efforts for large layoffs, are intended to help state workers who
National Park Service invites public input on Ross Lake National Recreation Area visitor use planning
Sedro Woolley, WA–North Cascades National Park Service Complex will open a 60-day public comment period June 12 to gather input that will inform a new frontcountry planning process for Ross Lake National Recreation Area and adjacent areas along State Route 20. Submit your thoughts online or by mail by August 11, 2025. Public input will play a vital role in helping identify meaningful solutions to protect park resources, improve access, and ensure a positive experience for all. The National Park Service
Inaugural graduating SVC Dental Therapy Program class for Native American students celebrates milestone
WHO: Skagit Valley College (SVC), Swinomish Indian Tribal Community leaders, and students WHAT: SVC and the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community celebrate the graduation of six students from the dəxʷx̌ayəbus SVC Dental Therapy Program. Analogous to a physician assistant, dental therapists are mid-level providers who work under the supervision of a dentist and provide routine dental care, similar to how a physician assistant works with medical doctors. This inaugural cohort, which is comprised entirely of
Public Comment Period Extended for Revisions to Skagit County Dangerous and Potentially Dangerous Dogs Code to Friday, June 27, 2025
A public hearing was held on June 10, 2025, on proposed revisions to Skagit County code relating to dangerous dogs. To provide additional opportunities for public input, the Skagit County Commissioners have extended the public comment period to Friday, June 27th, at 4:30 p.m. Comments or questions regarding the proposed revisions can be directed via email to the Skagit County Commissioners at commissioners@co.skagit.wa.us or emilyd@co.skagit.wa.us or by mail to 1800 Continental Place, Mount Vernon, WA
Stehekin Trail, Camp, and Area Closures
Update 6/8/25 Park officials have opened Stehekin area trails, road, and areas for day use in coordination with the Chelan County Sheriff's Office. Overnight stays on previously closed trails, including backcountry camps and cross-country zones, remain closed through June 12.Authorities are still searching for the suspect, and we encourage visitors to the area to remain alert. For further information and a description of the suspect, visit https://www.facebook.com/chelancountysheriffsoffice or
Guemes Island Ferry Electronic Ticketing Update
The Skagit County Ferry Division has been working through the transition to electronic ticketing for the Guemes Island ferry. It is highly recommended to our riders to purchase ferry tickets on a mobile device prior to boarding as tickets will not be sold in the vehicle loading line. Riders wishing to purchase tickets in person must park at the terminal and come into the ferry ticket office to complete the transaction. If customers need to purchase tickets at the terminal, we ask that you arrive at the
Washington’s average wage increased to $95,160 in 2024
OLYMPIA – Washington’s average annual wage grew by 6.8% in 2024 to $95,160, according to the state Employment Security Department. The average wage grew more in 2024 than in 2023, when it grew by 5.9%. Employment Security uses the average annual wage to calculate:Minimum and maximum unemployment insurance (UI) benefit levels for new claims opened on or after July 6, 2025.Paid Family & Medical Leave maximum benefit levels for new claims filed on or after Jan. 1, 2026.Employers’ unemployment taxes
Employment Security’s new website wins major plain language award
OLYMPIA – The Employment Security Department’s new website received a 2025 ClearMark Award from the Center for Plain Language. Employment Security launched its redesigned website in November 2024. Employment Security, in partnership with consultant Anthro-Tech and developer WaTech, won the Short Materials category with the webpage “How to apply for unemployment benefits.” The Center for Plain Language announced award winners earlier this week. The winning webpage directs customers through a step-by-step
Beloved Skagit Valley Farmers Mike & Jeanne Youngquist to Lead 88th Annual Berry Dairy Days Parade as Grand Marshals Saturday, June 21st, 2025
Burlington, WA— 6/4/25 — Mike and Jeanne Youngquist, longtime Skagit County berry farmers and respected community leaders, have been named Grand Marshals of the 88th Annual Berry Dairy Days Festival, presented by Peoples Bank and supported by Skagit Farmers Supply & Country Store and Swinomish Casino & Lodge. The Youngquist farm, Mike and Jean’s Berry Farm, has been a cornerstone of the local agricultural community for decades—supplying fresh berries, building strong community ties, and shaping
Cascade Job Corps set to Shut Down at End of June
As a part of the Trump administration’s efforts to give a tax break to the richest Americans and wealthiest corporations, Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer has closed the Job Corps program. This terrible decision directly harms Northwest Washington. In its 40 year history, Cascade Job Corps has helped more than 10,000 low-income young people complete college credits and professional certifications. Today, the program serves 250 young people and employs 119 staff members. It also supports
Fines against a host of construction companies show safety often a secondary concern
TUMWATER — More than 1,600 workers are injured by falls every year in Washington. It’s the leading cause of death in the construction industry, and it’s entirely preventable. Yet, in the last three months, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) has fined four construction companies more than half a million dollars combined for continuing to violate basic rules about workers using fall protection gear. Vea abajo para esta información en español. As the weather warms up, many
Join us to discuss community benefit agreements and clean energy
Please join us Thursday, June 12, 9-10:30 a.m., for a follow-up meeting about Community Benefit Agreements (CBAs) and their potential role in clean energy development. This meeting, the second of two meetings, will provide an update on key themes from project research and interviews and offer an opportunity to gather additional feedback from participants.Commerce is aiming to develop a framework and process to include CBAs in clean energy projects. We invite interested parties to learn more about CBAs in
Join Clean Energy Tax Credit office hours – June 11 and 20
Learn more about the Clean Energy Tax Credit Assistance Program (CETCAP) and elective pay tax creditsJoin the CETCAP team for office hours on June 11 at 1 p.m. and June 20 at 9:30 a.m. to learn more about this program and elective pay tax credits. During this session, tax attorneys will be available to answer any technical questions you may have. Register for June 11Register for June 20 CETCAP provides free technical assistance to community-based organizations, local governments, ports, housing
Skagit Valley College offers Cardinal Hoops Basketball Camp
Skagit Valley College is hosting its annual Cardinal Hoop Basketball Camp for students in grades 2 through 8. The camps will be held at the Dave DuVall Pavilion, 2405 E College Way, Mount Vernon. The basketball camp will take place June 23-25 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and costs $125. “We’re excited to invite families to take part in this opportunity that helps kids build important skills both on and off the court,” said Mitch Freeman, SVC athletic director. “Our coaches and players are passionate about creating a
Skagit Valley College to host Court of Appeals, Div. I case hearings May 28
(Mount Vernon, Wash.) –– Skagit Valley College will once again host the Washington State Court of Appeals, Division I oral argument hearings on Wednesday, May 28. Hosting the appellate court hearings on the SVC Mount Vernon campus will provide an opportunity for students, faculty, and the general public to observe real-world cases, courtroom procedures, and legal arguments first-hand. “We are excited to return to the Skagit Valley after our successful traveling court experience at SVC last spring,” said
How to Bring in the Right People to Fuel Your Sales and Marketing Growth
Every business reaches a point where internal hustle alone won't cut it. You’ve optimized what you can in-house, maybe even burned the candle down to the wick trying to stretch talent beyond their specialties. At some point, if you’re serious about scaling up sales or reaching customers with more punch, you’ll need to look outside. That’s when hiring external professionals stops being a luxury and starts becoming an essential move. Think Strategy Before Staffing You don’t start by calling a consultant.
