It was with momentary pleasure that I opened the Herald Friday morning to view the glorious photograph by Dan Bates, “Glory on Grand Avenue.” I experienced the same bicycle ride Thursday evening, commuting home from work, where I took in my own moment with those trees and their gifts.
A horrible contrast, though, struck me early Friday morning as I viewed the photograph. In my accustomed early morning trip out the front door to pick up The Herald, I was greeted by an incredible stench coming from the Kimberly-Clark mill. The smell of sulphur was overwhelming.
For three days our neighborhood was inundated with a constant smell that can only be described as noxious, if not downright unhealthy. I know that the mill is working on one of its many pools, cleaning or fixing something. This is not new.
For many years, I have called the mill’s East Gate to complain of noise or stench when it gets to the point of intolerance. A helpful voice always takes my complaint and forwards it on. And the problem goes away for a while.
Unfortunately, it also returns. This time, though, I felt as if I were knocked off my feet. I called the mill, left my report. I know that the smell will go away, for a while. I know that it will return. I have many bad memories of spending warm, glorious spring and summer days indoors or away from home because of the impact of the mill. I can only hope, and propose, that the mill, the city and the neighborhood will sit down and talk this one out for a responsible, effective solution.
Lloyd Weller
Everett
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
