18th year for annual Trunk-R-Treat in Mountlake Terrace

Story & Photos By David Carlos

It was a clear Halloween evening for the annual Trunk-R-Treat in Mountlake Terrace. The event, held from 5pm to 7pm at 232nd St SW and 56th Ave W, brought together families, decorated vehicles, and plenty of candy.

Organized by Ellis, owner of Espresso Break

Organized by Ellis, owner of Espresso Break, the event was sponsored by West Plaza Marketplace, Diamond Knot Brewing Co., MyMLTNews, Mountlake Church, and Espresso Break.

This year, 34 vehicles signed up to participate, a number Ellis said is about average. Most were returning participants, although several newcomers joined the fun.

Rowan Miller, the Mad Scientist & family

One of those handing out candy was Rowen Miller, dressed as a mad scientist, complete with a van converted into a laboratory.

Asked why he decided to participate, Miller said, "For fun. We've also come through as attendees a few years now, so we got a nice thing to do."

Billy Holmes and his dad with the 1959 Jaguar

Another participant, Billy Holmes, was dressed as a character from the movie "A Clockwork Orange." He and his father brought along a shiny red 1959 Jaguar for their booth. This was their fourth year participating in Trunk-R-Treat.

For participant Zenith, the best part of the evening was watching the children enjoy themselves.

"The costumes are so much fun, but I think also just the joy. And it's so pure and fun and just like true exhilaration and I just love that."

Asked why she decided to participate, Zenith explained that it was a combination of wanting to celebrate Halloween and supporting a favorite local business.

"We live close by and last year only got a couple trick-or-treaters at home. And Espresso Break is actually our favorite coffee shop. We love Maria and everybody. And then we found out that it was her that put this on and we were like, oh, between the two, we have to participate."

Councilmember Sam Doyle

Mountlake Terrace City Councilmember Sam Doyle was also among those handing out candy.

Asked why, of all the ways she could spend Halloween, she chose to spend it giving candy to children, Doyle said, "It's so much fun. I love it. I did it last year when I was campaigning and I wanted to keep doing it on council."

For Ellis, the event is about more than just candy. It's about seeing families enjoying themselves and creating memories together.

Asked what she enjoys most about seeing families come together, she said:

"That's an easy one. I love seeing the kiddos dressed up with their parents in tow having so much fun in their costumes collecting all that candy. The smiles, and giggles that it brings to them, seriously hearing children laughing is good for your soul. Even the shy kids start to open up by the 5th or 6th car."

Ellis also pointed out how much easier Trunk-R-Treat makes Halloween for parents, especially those with younger children.

"I tell people that have never been there that it's an amazing, safe, and fun time for everyone involved."

She recalled taking her own son trick-or-treating when he was younger.

"When my son was young and I was taking him out, it felt like we walked from house to house forever. Trunk-R-Treat is like going to 30-40 houses all in one spot, it just makes it so much more fun for the kids and really much easier on the parents."

In addition to the decorated vehicles and candy, visitors were treated to free Diamond Knot Root Beer, Espresso Break's Black Scottie Hot Apple Cider, and new this year, cookies from Snohomish Pie Co.

A gift basket filled with items from local businesses was also offered as a prize for the best-decorated vehicle.

After 18 years, Trunk-R-Treat has become something of a Halloween tradition in Mountlake Terrace, with many participants returning year after year.

As Ellis explained:

"This event has taken on a life of its own, I have people coming back year after year to decorate their cars and spread some laughter and fun for the evening. Every year I get asked, "You're planning it again aren't you?"

And after 18 years I always answer, "Of course, why wouldn't I?" Now mind you this question starts getting asked around the middle of June, I usually laugh and tell them yes of course, but let me get thru the School Supply Drive first. I guess I'm not the only one that gets excited about all that candy."

After all these years, Trunk-R-Treat continues to show that a little candy, a few creative costumes, and a lot of community spirit can make Halloween something special.

Watch a 3 minute video

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David Rose: Arrest Made in Series of Assaults in Mountlake Terrace

CAPTURED: Arrest Made in Series of Assaults:

The Mountlake Terrace Police Department has concluded an investigation into a series of concerning encounters and assaults reported on the east side of the city.

Since May 2026, the department received at least twelve reports involving a male subject described as a bald white or Hispanic male in his 30s to 40s approaching juvenile and adult women and initiating unsolicited contact.

These encounters escalated over the past two weeks to include unwanted touching, prompting increased patrols and investigative efforts.

On September 16, 2026, officers arrested Marbin Yovanni Garcia Quixal for multiple assaults with sexual motivation. He was booked into the Snohomish County Jail at approximately 7:45 p.m.

Detectives are continuing to review all related reports to determine any additional connections.

The Mountlake Terrace Police Department recognizes and commends the hard work, vigilance, and dedication of our patrol officers and investigators. Their commitment to rapid response, thorough casework, and community protection directly led to the identification and arrest of the suspect.

With this arrest, the immediate threat to the community has been mitigated.

We encourage anyone with additional information related to these incidents to contact the department. Anyone who experiences or witnesses suspicious behavior should call 9‑1‑1 as soon as possible.

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A little rain did not dim the glow of the second annual Luminaria Walk at Ballinger Park

Story & Photos by David Carlos

MOUNTLAKE TERRACE — A little rain did not dim the glow of the second annual Luminaria Walk at Ballinger Park on Saturday evening.

The event, held from 7pm to 9pm, invited visitors to follow a candlelit loop beginning at the park’s north entrance parking lot and ending near the Lake Ballinger Center.

Rain before the event threatened to dampen the turnout, but Mountlake Terrace Events Coordinator Andrew Appelwick predicted the showers would stop around 7:20pm and conditions would be perfect. He was right.

Volunteers placed approximately 350 luminaria bags along the route two hours before the event. Some were decorated by children at the Recreation Pavilion, giving families an opportunity to walk the path and search for their children’s artwork.

Appelwick described the Luminaria Walk as a fun way for visitors to experience the park while strolling through the illuminated pathways at their own pace.

Along the route, walkers could hear Seattle-based band My Next Planet performing behind the Lake Ballinger Center.

Formed in 2023, the band filled the park with an energetic blend of pop-punk and alternative rock, featuring catchy melodies and emotionally honest songwriting.

The Luminaria Walk was Mountlake Terrace’s final community event before the city’s tree-lighting ceremony in December.

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Mountlake Terrace defies wildfire smoke to hold City Night Out event

Smokey the Bear at Mountlake Terrace
(look at the baby!)

Story & Photos by David Carlos

Many cities postponed their National Night Out celebrations Tuesday because of poor air quality caused by wildfires in Eastern Washington.

I expected Mountlake Terrace to follow suit. Throughout the afternoon, I checked the City of Mountlake Terrace Facebook page every few minutes, anticipating a postponement notice. It never appeared. Instead, the city moved forward with the event as planned.

Why did the city proceed?

Watching performers with rapt attention

Andrew Applewick, the City of Mountlake Terrace events coordinator, said, 

"We had an investment. The community looks forward to this, and that's really what it comes down to. We're not going to require anybody to come out. We're going to make sure that they make the right choices, but some families may count on this as their meal. And it's a big thing. So, if you need to count on us, we want to make sure we do it right.”

Evergreen Playfield was packed with attendees

The event ran from 6 to 8:30pm, and Evergreen Playfield was packed. The crowd appeared even larger than in previous years.

Some attendees were loyal return visitors. I asked one attendee, Jackie, what brought her out despite the smoky conditions.

She said, “Just to see the people. I missed one year, but I try to get out here every year, yeah.”

L-R Mayor Steve Woodard, Councilmember William Paige, Jr., Deputy Mayor Carolyn Hope, Councilmembers Kyoko Matsumoto Wright, and Bryan Wahl.

Mayor Steve Woodard thanked the crowd for attending.

“Thank you all for being out here tonight in particular because a lot of cities decided they couldn't do this tonight. But we said no, we are positive that our residents would be very angry with us if we didn't. And as I understand it, you were all here at 5:45 pm as opposed to 6 o'clock. So, we really appreciate you all.”

I asked another crew member (not pictured) how many hot dogs they've made so far.
He said, "About 500. And about 500 to go. So 1000 total. Minus the one that we dropped."

Visitors were treated to free hot dogs, chips and drinks. More than 30 informational booths showcased organizations, programs, and services available to the community.

The evening also included music from a DJ, balloon art, face painting, a photo booth, public safety vehicles, a drone demonstration, cornhole with police officers, and performances by the Mountlake Terrace Dance Academy.

Question:  Did you do this as a hobby first?
Officer Russell's Answer:  "Oh, yeah, like I bought a drone because I wanted to survey my land, and then my sergeant found out I like to fly, so he asked me if I was interested."
Here, he's flying a DJI M30 drone, one of a number in the department.

Officer Russell putting on FPV (first-person view) drone goggles. You see what the drone sees.

National Night Out combines family-friendly entertainment with activities designed to strengthen relationships between residents and local public safety agencies.

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Mountlake Terrace Community Parade

The Shriners were out in force

Story and Photos by David Carlos

Hundreds of spectators lined 56th Avenue West Friday evening July 17, 2026 as the Mountlake Terrace Community Parade brought people together for a lively summer celebration.

Sunny skies and mild temperatures provided a welcome contrast to the thunder and lightning that swept through the area the day before.

Bubblemaker

The parade continues a longtime Mountlake Terrace tradition, although its name and organizers have changed in recent years. After the Smith family retired from organizing the three-day Tour de Terrace festival, the nonprofit MLT Cares sponsored last year’s MLT Parade. This year, the Mountlake Terrace Chamber of Commerce took over as host of the newly named MLT Community Parade.

Dance troupe

Friday's parade offered a little bit of everything: Performance groups, community organizations, marching bands, cultural groups, local businesses, classic cars and plenty of colorful characters. Young dancers displayed brilliant traditional dresses, musicians performed along the route, Scouts carried flags, and first responders greeted spectators from vintage to modern fire engines.

Seafair Pirates aboard the cannon-blasting Moby Duck

The pirates were VERY noisy

Other crowd-pleasers included the Seafair Pirates aboard the cannon-blasting Moby Duck, Shriners performing on miniature and custom rides, a mariachi band, costumed dancers and children participating alongside their families. Spectators also enjoyed a steady procession of Ford Mustangs.

The City of Mountlake Terrace served as the event’s Terrace Title Sponsor. In announcing the partnership, the Chamber said in its Facebook page:

"The MLT Community Parade wouldn't be possible without the incredible support of our Terrace Title Sponsor, the City of Mountlake Terrace. From day one, the City has been more than a sponsor; it's been a true partner. Their guidance, resources, and willingness to help navigate everything from permits and logistics to event planning have been invaluable throughout this process.

The Chamber of Commerce organized the event

"As this is our first year organizing the parade, we've had a lot to learn, and the City's support has helped turn this vision into reality. Their investment in this event reflects a shared commitment to bringing our community together and continuing a tradition that means so much to Mountlake Terrace. 

"Please join us in thanking the City of Mountlake Terrace for helping make the 2026 MLT Community Parade possible. We couldn't have done it without them, and we're grateful for their partnership every step of the way."

Western Vigilantes with their kneeling car

I asked Mayor Woodard, "Why was it important for the city to step up as the title sponsor for the MLT Community Parade?"

He replied: "Well, I would say from where I said, right now, protect your joy should be a theme throughout the county. This is a wonderful opportunity to just bring people out and make sure that we see each other and recognize our needs while we also just enjoy each other's presence"

Concern for Neighbors Food Bank

I asked Councilmember Doyle, "What does the city hope residents will take away from this parade?"

She said: "To find your joy, like the mayor said, and that everybody belongs."

The Double D crew in 1970s dress

One of the most eye-catching groups was the crew from Double D Meats. The group dressed in hip early-1970s clothing, complete with flower-power prints, bell-bottoms, fringe, tinted glasses and peace signs. I dug the far-out, groovy scene.

For the people watching from lawns, sidewalks and folding chairs, the evening offered a chance to reconnect with neighbors—and perhaps collect a little parade loot.

I asked one spectator, who has lived in Mountlake Terrace for 25 years, "What's been your favorite part of the parade so far?"

Free stuff

He said: "All the free stuff." He then pointed to a bag his wife was holding, already filled with giveaways from merchants and parade participants.

Joy, sunshine, and a bag full of freebies. For this year's MLT Community Parade, that sounds like a pretty groovy scene.

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Backyard fire in Mountlake Terrace Saturday sends flames 30 feet in the air

Photo courtesy South County Fire

South County firefighters stopped a backyard fire from spreading in Mountlake Terrace late Saturday afternoon, June 6, 2026.

Photo courtesy South County Fire

Just before 3:20pm, South County firefighters responded to reports of a fence on fire in Mountlake Terrace. When they arrived on scene about five minutes later, firefighters saw flames between twenty and thirty feet high coming from the backyard area of the house. 

They found three detached sheds on fire and aggressively attacked the fire at its source.

No evacuations were needed as all residents had escaped on their own by the time firefighters arrived. Two firefighters sustained minor injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital. The fire was fully extinguished in just over ten minutes and there was no damage to the main home.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by South County Fire

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Mountlake Terrace Pride celebration brings joy to all

All were welcome at the First MLT Pride event

Story and photos by David Carlos

The City of Mountlake Terrace hosted its inaugural MLT Pride celebration on Friday, June 5, 2026 from 5 to 8pm at Jerry Smith Town Center Plaza, 23204 58th Ave W.

The first-time event was designed to celebrate and highlight the City’s support of the LGBTQIA+ community. 

Soulcem

Organizers planned an evening featuring live music, drag performances, community organizations, food trucks, dance fitness, a pet parade and more.

Some of the participants in the Pet Parade

Entertainment began with music by Soulcem, followed by drag performances featuring Maya Mem Sabb, Sin O’Matic, Mik Monet, and Kitzen Zammer.

Dancing

Then, attendees participated in a 30-minute Seattle Dance Fitness class before the Pet Strut and Stroll at 7pm.

Drag performers entertained the crowd

A second drag performance also happened at 7pm.

An adults-only after party at the Getaway Tavern began at 8pm.

Mountlake Terrace Events Coordinator Andrew Appelwick said the event already accomplished one of its primary goals.

“Just the sheer amount of people who have said they actually feel welcome, that they’re excited to be here, that the city’s recognized here, I think, is already a success as it is.

"We have 30 vendors here, nonprofits, and organizations all around.”

Staff at MLT Booth had just as much fun as anyone

Organizers encouraged community members of all backgrounds to attend, emphasizing that all were welcome at Mountlake Terrace’s first Pride celebration.

In summary it was : Simply The Best

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Mountlake Terrace Pride Event June 5, 2026

The City of Mountlake Terrace is excited to announce our first-ever MLT Pride event. Spearheaded by the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission, this event will be held on Friday June 5, 2026 from 5:00 - 8:00pm in the Jerry Smith Town Center Plaza and adjacent section of 58th Avenue. 23204 58th Ave W, Mountlake Terrace WA

Join us as we celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. All City events are free to attend and all ages are welcome.

MLT Pride will have dance performances, local bands and artists, vendor booths and food trucks for all to enjoy. There will also be a pet parade/stroll around 7:00pm so get those pets dressed up and ready to walk the town. All pets must be on a leash or secured and have bags for pet waste.

The section of 58th Avenue (adjacent to City Hall) will be closed to traffic, allowing for larger crowds. Parking will be available at City Hall and Library parking lot (only available entrance will be from the south on 58th Ave W)

The committee is looking for vendors and organizations to participate in this event. If you are interested in applying, please visit cityofmlt.com/2304 to fill out the application. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

We invite everyone to the Pride Flag Raising at 6:00pm before the City Council meeting on June 4, 2026.

For more information or to sponsor the event contact Andrew Appelwick, Events Coordinator, at 425-744-6287 aappelwick@mltwa.gov.

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Mountlake Terrace High School Jazz Bands to perform free concerts at Sheridan Market April 26, 2026

Mountlake Terrace High School Jazz 1 and Jazz 2 will perform at the Sheridan Market on Sunday, April 26, 2026 from 2-4pm.

All are welcome to attend this free concert. Donations are welcome to support the trip to New York City where the bands will compete in the 31st annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival next month. 

The Sheridan Market is located at 15348 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park.

Individuals can financially support the band by making a donation on the Mountlake Terrace High School Band Zeffy page.

Essentially Ellington festival events, including the final concert featuring the top-placing bands and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, will livestream on April 30 to May 2 at jazzlive.com.

Follow Mountlake Terrace High School Jazz on Facebook and Instagram for more information.

--Information courtesy MyEdmondsNews.com

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Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force arrests 63-year-old Mountlake Terrace man on multiple charges

Photo courtesy Snohomish County Sheriff's Office

Last week, the Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force (SRDTF), in partnership with the Everett Police Department’s Anti-Crime Team (ACT), arrested a 63-year-old Mountlake Terrace man on multiple charges, including possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and suboxone strips.

The arrest followed an investigation that began in mid-2025. 

As part of the operation, detectives executed two search warrants, one at a residence in the 4500 block of 229th Place SW in Mountlake Terrace, and another in the 2700 block of NE 125th Street in Seattle.

During the two residential search warrants, detectives seized:

• Fentanyl powder: 923 grams (over 2 pounds)
• Fentanyl pills (“blues”): 312.9 grams
• Methamphetamine: 962.4 grams (over 2 pounds)
• Suboxone strips: 1,326.5 grams (hundreds of individual strips)
• Cash: $2,606

This investigation highlights the strength of collaboration between the Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force and the Everett Police Department in removing dangerous drugs from the community and holding mid-level drug traffickers accountable in Snohomish County.

This remains an active investigation.

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3rd of July Family Celebration in Mountlake Terrace

Plenty of room for everyone at the 3rd of July event

By Diane Hettrick

Photos by David Carlos

The 3rd of July Family Celebration in Mountlake Terrace was everything it was supposed to be. Great weather, things to do and watch, food, room to stretch out, followed by fireworks.

Whole families picnicked in the park

Whole families were there, enjoying the day and staying into the night for the fireworks show.

There was a pie eating contest.

People cheering on the contestants in the pie eating contest

There was a pie-eating contest with spectators cheering on the contestants. 

Kids played ball

The people-watching was excellent!

Grocery Outlet was there with an easy contest and small prizes

And after dark, there were fireworks.

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