La Conner Community News

07/26/2025

Under the glow of floodlights and the lift of towering cranes, the MV Zalophus slipped into the Swinomish Channel just after 2 a.m. Tuesday, marking the final launch in a seven-year partnership between Mavrik Marine and the San Francisco Bay Ferry system.

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The ferry MV Zalophus sits in the Swinomish Channel awaiting tow to G Dock, marking the final launch in Mavrik Marine’s seven-year partnership with San Francisco Bay Ferry. Photo by Nancy K. Crowel…

07/25/2025

Local pros Tobias Schwind of Grassroots Lawn & Garden and Tim Chomiak of Black Bird Landscaping have teamed up to widen the walkways, refresh the landscaping, and make the whole outdoor space at Tillinghast Postal and Business Center more welcoming and accessible.

Schwind has filled the garden beds with vibrant native plants and lush greenery, while Chomiak has carefully laid out a broader, more organized brick path around the building, making it easier for visitors to stroll, rest, or park a bike. Next up: new stairs to the front entrance, expected to be ready early next week.

Stop by and see the transformation for yourself — Tillinghast is open and loving the view!

07/25/2025

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07/25/2025

Sen. Patty Murray writes: "I am going to keep pushing until every dollar goes out to schools in La Conner, and across Washington state and the entire country."

Read her guest commentary ➡️

U.S. Senator Patty Murray

Sen. Patty Murray Over the last few weeks, after school programs across the country have had to tell parents to make alternate plans and school districts across the country have had to scramble as …

07/25/2025

A federal funding freeze leaves La Conner families scrambling as vital school programs face uncertain futures this fall.

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A federal funding freeze leaves La Conner families scrambling as vital school programs face uncertain futures this fall.

07/24/2025

We're excited to introduce you to Emma Storey! Emma has been managing distribution and our online presence. 🗞️ You can reach Emma with questions, comments, or concerns about newspaper delivery at [email protected].

07/24/2025

In today's edition we celebrate a literary treasure and confront a local crisis. Grab your copy around town or subscribe today — don’t miss this week's must-read local stories. 🗞️

07/23/2025

Tom Robbins’ final resting place is as whimsical and wise as his words. 💫

Now etched in stone at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery in Mount Vernon, his heart-shaped headstone is a playful, poetic tribute — custom made by local engraver Lucy Mae VanZanden owner of Todd's Monuments. Robbins' wife, Alexa, wanted the headstone to be like a valentine, and to reflect his singular sense of whimsy, and it does, beautifully.

The quotes, pulled from Robbins’ own books, read like love letters to life and mischief:
“Love is the ultimate outlaw ...”
“People are not perfect, but love can be.”

With doves, cherubs, carved roses, and irreverent charm, it’s a monument that mirrors the man who turned philosophy into play.

🕊️ Joy, in spite of everything.

📷 Nancy K. Crowell/La Conner Community News

07/23/2025

Witness the arrival of this year’s canoes at Swədəbš Park as Coast Salish families honor tradition. Learn more ➡️

(Photo above) Pullers near Swinomish in 2023 Canoe Journey. Photo by Nancy K. Crowell/La Conner Community News. Witness the arrival of this year’s canoes at Swedabs Park as Coast Salish famil…

07/23/2025

Bird of the Week 🐦‍⬛

Bathed in golden light, a marbled murrelet glides across still waters off Flagstaff Point on the Kukutali Preserve. The elusive seabird, again listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, nests high in coastal old-growth trees and forages at sea, making its conservation especially complex. The marbled murrelet is an indicator species for both marine and forest ecosystems.

📷 courtesy Kevin Ebi

07/22/2025

Whether it’s a family’s first visit or their fiftieth, Free Family Day promises a rich tapestry of inspiration and creativity. The museum is still seeking volunteers to help bring the day to life. Learn more ➡️

Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum

Whether it’s a family’s first visit or their fiftieth, Free Family Day promises a rich tapestry of inspiration and creativity.