News Bites for May 28, 2025 Tribune

Snohomish, WALocal News

Dick's Drive-In will open its 10th location in South Everett on June 12, featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:29 a. m. This new site will be the chain's northernmost, expanding its presence since its inception 71 years ago. In another local development, SharinaBean's coffee shop is fundraising $10,000 after losing its lease in April, with only $645 raised on GoFundMe as of May 20. On a positive note, the Imagine Children's Museum celebrated the reinstatement of a $250,000 federal grant for its preschool outreach program on May 21, following a court ruling that overturned its earlier termination.

The grant, which supports the Little Science Lab program, had been unexpectedly cut on April 8. Additionally, Snohomish is seeking applicants for a vacancy on its Planning Commission, with applications due by June 6. This commission evaluates land use issues, and the term for the selected appointee will last until fall 2028. The community continues to engage with local initiatives, showcasing a blend of challenges and opportunities.

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Appeals court upholds decision against SRFR Firefighter 8

The U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court's decision against Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue, siding with the agency in a religious discrimination case involving eight firefighters who refused the COVID-19 vaccine. The firefighters, who sought back pay after being placed on unpaid leave, argued that the agency failed to provide reasonable accommodations for their religious beliefs. Attorneys representing the firefighters criticized the ruling, stating it jeopardizes religious freedom protections.

Fortney family revives teen leader program

Adam and Jill Fortney launched the Lead The Way Foundation, a nonprofit aimed at helping teens become positive community members. The foundation offers a free eight-week program for youth aged 13-17, focusing on leadership skills and personal development, starting on October 8 at Sno-Isle Tech Skills Center in Everett.

Sultan middle school student seeks national championship title in taekwondo

Fourteen-year-old Zayden Zimmerman, a mixed martial arts enthusiast, will compete as the No. 1 seed in the Moo Do taekwondo national championships on October 16 in Sacramento. After earning her first-degree black belt and winning 35 first-place medals, she aims to qualify for the 2026 AAU Junior Olympics in Des Moines. Zayden also excels in jiu-jitsu, having won all four of her competitions since starting the sport last year.