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Home is my __________

On Tuesday, I attended Tacoma-Pierce County Habitat for Humanity’s “Changing Lives Lunch-IN” virtual fundraiser. One of their engagement activities displayed an image of a house with the words “Home is my _______.” COVID has certainly...
Change is going to come

Have you seen the recently released movie, “One Night in Miami”? It was directed by Regina King and tells the (mostly) true story of an evening in the 1960’s when Muhammed Ali (then Cassius Clay), Sam Cooke, Jim Brown and Malcolm X were...
Let it snow

The song “Let It Snow” starts out, “Oh, the weather outside is frightful…” and we did see some amazing snow totals across Pierce County a few days ago. While most of us stayed safely at home building epic snowmen or videoing puppies in the...
Sustainability 2030 Plan update before Council

At a special meeting the Community Development Committee will begin its review of the Pierce County Sustainability 2030 plan, which outlines how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across Pierce County government operations and the larger community...
Tomorrow’s icons today

I’ve had the privilege of writing in this blog about important African American Pierce County residents that have made powerful contributions to our lives close to home and beyond. I have shared the fascinating story of Dr. Nettie Asberry who founded...
Together

An African proverb says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Over the last four years we’ve seen how effective we can be when we join with our local partners to tackle regional challenges. For example, you...
Jabs and jabbering

So, I recently learned that while those of us in the U.S. say we are eager to get our vaccination “shot,” our friends across the Pond in Great Britain say they can’t wait to get a “jab.” Either way, I’m excited that we are getting more vaccines into...
Finding a way

There’s an old saying, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” And, there is some truth to that. Despite any number of obstacles, it seems that some people can find a way to break through and get things done. That’s especially true here in Pierce...
Let’s go!

Four years ago, I had the privilege of being sworn in as Executive for the first time. Hundreds of guests joined me in a large conference center. It was festive, loud and lively. Fast forward four years and this week’s swearing-in was small,...
Commitee and External Board Assignments

At this afternoon’s meeting the Council approved appointments to our standing committes and external boards. Standing Committees RULES AND OPERATIONS COMMITTEE Meeting Time: Mondays, 10:00 a.m. Derek Young, Chair Dave Morell, Vice Chair Marty...
“Of the people, by the people, for the people”

In the midst of the most divisive time in our history, the Civil War, after the bloodiest battle in our history, with over 50,000 combined casualties, President Abraham Lincoln delivered a 271-word address at the dedication of the National Cemetery...
Changes at the Pierce County Council

With the New Year, Pierce County has a new Council. Yesterday we swore in four new members. Joining us are: Hans Zeiger, District 2 Amy Cruver, District 3 Ryan Mello, District 5 Jani Hitchen, District 6 We’re excited about this new group because they...
Good riddance

I can’t imagine there is a person who isn’t relieved that 2020 is almost over. While there have been many wonderful events – babies were born, partners were wed, birthdays were celebrated, and puppies were adopted – the losses were much...
Hopeful holidays

Hopeful holidays So many of our traditional holiday activities have been cancelled. Whether it is a large family dinner, a neighborhood gathering, baking cookies with a grandparent or a large church service, these and many other things that mean the...
Appreciative or proud?

I learned a lot last Wednesday afternoon at the Human Services’ “Years of Service Celebration.” For instance, Sarah Lacombe is a big fan of the musical Hamilton, as am I. And, if I had to pick a song from Hamilton that best described my reaction to...
For a healthy community

It has never been more important for Pierce County to have strong, effective public health services. Our community’s health and wellbeing have been taken to the brink by the pandemic. There is not one aspect of our lives that hasn’t been touched and...
Lifetime learners

I love to learn. I want to grow intellectually, to keep my brain healthy, to challenge my preconceptions, and to be better prepared to do my job. Learning helps me be ready for the challenges that lie ahead and makes me a better person. Beyond...
Connecting with a Family Caregiver

November was Family Caregiver Month, so before it gets too far in our rear view mirror, I want to share a bit about our Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP), and highlight a very special caregiver here in Pierce County. A couple of weeks ago, I...
Like a scene from a science fiction movie

Imagine yourself in a hostile “alien” environment, where gravity is different, and your survival depends on the limited air supply you carry on your back. Now, further imagine you can’t see anything and have to navigate through pipes filled...
Still thankful

We’ve lost so much this year. Our young people have lost their schools, we’ve lost live music and sporting events, and for now we’ve even lost the ability to enjoy a meal in a restaurant. Worse than that, of course, are the lives lost. ...