Good morning, Everett.

During the week of Sept.

22, a gallon of unleaded gas averaged $4.59 in Washington—above the national average of $3.16—with higher prices in Seattle and King County and lower ones in Snohomish. High state taxes, limited refining capacity, and pricing rules like the Climate Commitment Act and zone pricing have kept fuel among the most expensive in the nation.

Washington's minimum wage will rise by 2.8% to $17.13 per hour starting Jan.

1 as announced by the state Department of Labor and Industries—many local cities like Everett already pay above this rate. The change will also update overtime thresholds and special rates for young workers and ride-booking drivers.

Faculty at Whittier Elementary celebrated receiving the Blue Ribbon Award when district leaders brought balloons and cupcakes to their meeting.

Days later the federal program was cancelled—yet the school remains proud of its achievement.

Western Washington University has guaranteed admission for Everett Community College students who earn an associate transfer degree in arts or science and reach a 2.5 GPA overall — some programs require extra admission steps.

Academic advisors from both schools will help students choose courses that meet their transfer and major requirements.

Everett school bus drivers represented by Teamsters Local 38 say they will strike if Durham School Services does not meet their demands for higher pay, better retirement, and improved health benefits—officials say they expect no immediate disruption and a new bargaining session is set for Oct 15.

Everett Public Schools may ask voters to approve a nearly $400 million bond measure—covering a new $97.7 million elementary school and major renovations including replacing Lowell Elementary—to ease overcrowding.

The school board will vote on the proposal on Oct. 14, and if approved, the measures will appear on the Feb. 10 special election ballot.

Candidate forums will be held this week in Snohomish, Monroe, and Everett—Snohomish City Council and mayor candidates will answer questions at High Point Church on October 6 from 6 to 8, Monroe candidates for mayor, city council and school board will meet at Galaxy Theatres on October 8 starting at 5, and Everett candidates for mayor, city council and school board will share their plans at Everett Station on October 9 from 6:30 to 8:30 with light refreshments provided.

Design work for a new ADA-accessible pedestrian and bicycle bridge connecting Everett Community College and WSU-Everett will begin later this year over north Broadway—construction is planned for summer with additional funding to be pursued.

The design is fully funded by a state transportation grant and the Move Ahead Washington program.

Lawmakers have revised rules so that Washington shoppers will pay 4 cents more for a plastic bag starting in January.

The change means bags will stay thin for two more years and retailers will face a penalty fee for using thicker bags ahead of the new law — a decision that affects many local businesses.

Everett city officials proposed using unspent Local COVID Relief Program funds—$2.3 million for day-to-day expenses and $2.6 million shifted from other programs—and deferring police and fire pension contributions to cut the projected $12.6 million deficit for 2026 after a levy lift was rejected. These budget adjustments will lower the deficit for 2027 by $1.2 million and reallocate over $4.8 million to cover daily government costs as the city manages rising debt.

The Port of Everett has received a $1 million grant from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office—RCO—for renovating the Jetty Landing Boat Launch.

Project design will begin early next year with in-water construction set to start in 2027 and finish by February while replacing six floats.

Everett Silvertips vs. Tri-City Americans

7:05-8:35 p.m. — Angel of the Winds Arena — Tickets start at $15 — Witness the excitement of WHL hockey as the Everett Silvertips take on their rivals at home.

Everett Silvertips vs. Victoria Royals

6:05-7:35 p.m. — Angel of the Winds Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience top-tier WHL hockey as the Everett Silvertips compete on home ice.

Cole Swindell Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Angel of the Winds Arena — Ticketed event — Experience country music superstar Cole Swindell performing hits from his new album.

Creedence Revelation - Tribute To Creedence Clearwater Revival

7:30-9 p.m. — Historic Downtown Everett Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the classic rock hits of Creedence Clearwater Revival performed live by Creedence Revelation.

Bruin Block Party

5-11 p.m. — Everett Memorial Stadium — Free entry — Celebrate Cascade High School alumni with fun activities and community spirit on Homecoming night.

Everett Comedy Night

8-11 p.m. — Historic Downtown Everett Theater — $15-35 — Enjoy a night of laughs with top comedians including Cory Michaelis and Andrew Rivers.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Snohomish County

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Snohomish County Campus Plaza — Free entry — Participate in a noncompetitive walk supporting the fight against breast cancer.

Phil Wickham Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Angel of the Winds Arena — Cost Info Not Provided — Experience an inspiring evening of worship music with renowned artist Phil Wickham.

Disney On Ice: Let's Dance!

7-8:30 p.m. — Angel of the Winds Arena — Family-friendly ticket pricing — Experience a dazzling performance filled with Disney characters and non-stop music on ice.

Disney On Ice - Let's Dance

11 AM - 12:30 PM — Angel of the Winds Arena — Ticket prices vary — Mickey and friends bring Disney tunes to life with a spectacular ice show.