Thanks

Stern family grateful

for community support

On behalf of our family I would like to express our deepest gratitude to the citizens of this community for their most generous outpouring of respect and support during the unexpected passing of my husband, Edmonds Police Chief David Stern.

We were overwhelmed with the kindheartedness of the citizens and businesses that left heartfelt notes, sent cards; stopped by the memorial at the Police Department and Beck’s Funeral Home for the Sunday memorial. We thank those who stood solemnly on the sidewalks as the motorcade passed.

On the day of the memorial service we treasured the many who lined the streets paying their last respects, for the children who stood outside their school with a banner that read “Thank you Chief Stern,” for each handmade sympathy card they made that tried to ease the loss. David recognized that these children are our future and he wanted them to know how to be safe and drug free.

We are indebted to the many that have made contributions to the Edmonds Police Foundation and the David Stern memorial fund. The practical consideration that is shown by this act demonstrates the compassion and affection of this community that David so loved.

The Edmonds Police Department and Edmonds Fire Department as well as the many other state and local law enforcement and public safety agencies have been magnificent in the care and tenderness they have shown for our family. I am so deeply grateful for their support.

Our family is humbled by the exceptional demonstration of respect and friendship to my husband’s memory. David was a good man and he may be gone but not forgotten, as those in the community carry on the qualities he expressed.

Our deepest gratitude to you all.

Darlene L. Stern and family

Edmonds

Fireworks ban

Fireworks not just a nuisance on the Fourth

A recent Enterprise article discussed the possible ban on fireworks in Lynnwood. While the article covered issues like personal injuries, property damage, and a brief mention of the litter they create, one problem was ignored. These private fireworks displays extend well beyond July 4. When I lived in Lynnwood, the noise started the day the stands opened. The shrieks and booms woke me, my neighbors, and their children at all hours of the night. And it lasted for days after the holiday.

Professional fireworks displays are safer and more enjoyable. They provide a reason for community to gather in a patriotic celebration. Home-brewed displays are a noisy nuisance. Edmonds has banned them. Lynnwood should consider doing the same.

Kyle Brotherton

Edmonds

Broadband service

Hard work making broadband possible

At its June 19 meeting, the Edmonds City Council took a bold step into the future, approving the purchase of equipment that will allow the city of Edmonds to offer broadband Internet services to neighboring public agencies. While there is much work yet to be done, this step will allow the city to establish a new revenue stream while saving taxpayers throughout our community significant amounts of money.

City staff, including Dan Clements, Stephen Clifton and Cindi Cruz, worked with our committee through many months of planning and follow up to make this opportunity possible. Mayor Gary Haakenson deserves great credit for setting aside funding last year to connect the city’s fiber optic system to a regional Internet hub.

Councilmembers Peggy Pritchard Olson and Ron Wambolt deserve special thanks for pursuing this vision along the way, even when the committee discussion wandered deeply into the jungles of techno-jargon.

But two people deserve the greatest credit.

Committee member Rick Jenness understood the potential of this technology long before the rest of us and worked tirelessly to share his knowledge and expertise. Councilmember Mauri Moore was the catalyst, who introduced the resolution that created the Community Technology Advisory Committee in the first place. Without her support, this effort would not have even gotten started.

The people of Edmonds can take great pride in the caliber of leadership their city enjoys, from elected officials and public servants alike.

Bart Preecs

Edmonds CTAC

Thanks

Edmonds a wonderful host for West Coast

We have just spent a delightful week in Edmonds! We have never before traveled west of Denver, and Edmonds is a terrific introduction to the West Coast. We’ve ridden the ferry, seen eagles, watched dolphins and sea lions, and wandered through your farmers market and your beautiful downtown, buying as we went.

One of the highlights of our trip was attending the Meadowdale Community Club summer barbecue and meeting. Imagine our surprise when we had the opportunity to meet and talk with your mayor and two city councilmen (Michael Plunkett and Dave Orvis). We are so impressed that your representatives are so accessible and so interested in citizens’ thoughts and concerns. We have never experienced that in our town!

Thank you again for your hospitality and for providing us with a terrific vacation. You are so lucky to live in Edmonds!

Cathy and Frank Olson

Champaign, Illinois