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The meetings opened with a challenge for the year ahead. Poet and essayist Robert L. Arnold offered this inspiring reminder: “If there is any call to be heard, it is this . . .  stay present. Question power. Protect the vulnerable. Hold on to empathy . . . Because the year ahead will not reward indifference. It will demand courage, clarity, and a stubborn commitment to one another.”

Our meeting discussions reinforced our shared commitment to democracy and community action throughout the year.

• State League President Karen Crowley kicked things off with a timely conversation about legislative advocacy and Lobby Week, underscoring why it matters. “It’s about the relationships—better informed policymakers make better decisions,” she said. Karen shared practical tips on staying informed, understanding League priorities, and meeting effectively with legislators. Even though Lobby Week 2026 has passed, her guidance has lasting relevance for advocacy at any time.
  
  
• LWVSC President Lisa Utter followed with an update on local Lobby Week plans and a call to stay engaged with both state and congressional legislators. Here’s a simple, timeless tip: Save these numbers on your phone so you’re always ready to speak up on pending legislation – 
  Congress: 1-202-224-3121
  WA State Legislature: 1-800-562-6000
  A PDF of the Slides for the discussion on advocacy and priorities can be found here. (Log in to LWVSC required.)


• There was a brief update on the study project The State of Democracy in Washington. Don’t miss the all-member meetings on April 16th for a full review of this project that first gained our attention and support in 2025!


• Elections and Voter Outreach Specialist Duncan Clauson highlighted recent USPS process changes that could delay mailed ballots—making ballot brop boxes the safest option. With more than 30 drop box locations across the county, voters are encouraged to use them whenever possible. If mailing a ballot, it should be sent no later than one week before Election Day or handed directly to a USPS employee for a hand stamp.


• The February 10 election touches nearly every school district in Snohomish County and includes a proposal to fund a new station for Fire District 22. Encourage friends and neighbors to make their voices heard on investments in our schools and emergency responders. Remember to mail ballots by February 3 or use a Ballot Drop Box by 8:00 P.M. on Election Day.


• We also turned our attention to the League as Community, reflecting on what sustains us and where we need support most. Several high-priority volunteer and leadership roles were identified that strengthen and champion our work right now:
• Social Media Coordinator – share League messages on Facebook and Instagram and post recordings to YouTube.
• Communications Lead – guide external and internal messaging and support social media efforts. Contact Jen Winckler about Communications roles.
• Membership Support Teams.

The meetings closed with a review of the timely updates from all the League committees. You can review the highlights from their slides here. (Log in to LWVSC required.)

The evening Zoom session covers the highlights of the information shared during the in-person meeting – take advantage of this timesaver that gives you maximum calendar flexibility!

Our League meets all together in February on Saturday the 21st at the LWV 106th Birthday Party! Save the date and consult the League calendar on the website for the time and location.