Mill Creek Beacon - Your Hometown News Source

Washington State Ferries marks 70 years of service

Six years after the end of World War II, the State of Washington began operating the country’s largest ferry system. This month, Washington State Ferries marks seven decades with the unveiling of a commemorative logo that will decorate all 21 vessels in the ferry fleet during the anniversary year.

In addition, many ferry customers will receive commemorative stickers throughout the first week of June. “Since 1951, we’ve been proud to serve Washingtonians and visitors by operating the state’s marine highway system,” said Patty Rubstello, head of WSF. “The pandemic has made celebrations a challenge, so we wanted to make sure to take this special opportunity to thank our customers and front-line employees.”

A special anniversary video will also be shown on vessel screens throughout the year.

Vaccination efforts continuing

Vaccination is still in-process, and all over the age of 12 are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. It is also recommended for all who are eligible. Anyone with concerns about their own plans to vaccinate should contact their personal health care provider.

The mass vaccination sites in Snohomish County are still taking appointments for now, but they are beginning to wind down. Appointments are recommended but not required, and are soon shifting to second doses only. For more information on mass vaccination appointments, go to https://bit. ly/3z3hd14 or call 425-339-5278.

The Snohomish Health District closed two of its mass vaccination sites: Angel of the Winds in Everett and the Tulalip-area Boom City sites. Both were returned to their original purposes. The Ash Way Park & Ride site is still open for walk-in and drive through appointments and carries the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, which is the only one approved for ages 12 to 18. All minors must be accompanied by an adult and both adult and minor must have an identification with them. If a minor has had another vaccine recently, talk to a health care provider to find out if the two interact.

The health district is focused now on community clinics. One upcoming clinic is at the AquaSox baseball game, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Seattle Children’s North Clinic Play eld, at Funko Field, 3900 Broadway. The shots are free, and no insurance information will be requested. Clinics can be scheduled through the health district, for workplaces, schools, or for those who cannot travel to a vaccine. Call 425-339-5278.

Vaccines are also available at pharmacies, Costco, Fred Meyer and health care clinics. Some are below, but if your clinic is not listed, contact them to find out if they offer vaccines:

• The Everett Clinic: 425-339-4212.

• Kaiser Permanente: 1-800-352-3610.

• North Sound Pediatrics: [email protected]

• Western Washington Medical Group: 360-436-4888.

Dr. Chris Spitters, Health Officer for the health district, said parents and guardians should try to schedule COVID-19 vaccines for youth with a primary care provider. Some minors have fallen behind on other vaccines and the visit can also give providers a chance to assess mental health and other issues.