Annie Barker

Mar 16, 2024 | heraldnet.com | Annie Barker

INDEX — You don’t convert to being a witch. “You just wake up and realize that’s what you’ve always been,” Archpriestess Bella LaVeau said. “And now you have a name for it.” Bella LaVeau, 58, leads the Aquarian Tabernacle Church with Archpriest Dusty Dionne, 40. Based in Index, the duo guides a congregation of about two dozen Pagans in person, with hundreds more online.

Dec 29, 2023 | heraldnet.com | Olivia Vanni |Annie Barker |Ryan Berry

There are stories to be told in every corner of Snohomish County. In 2023, the photo staff at The Daily Herald explored the reaches of the region and turned a lens to the people who call it home. Some stories were more lighthearted. Some were devastating. And there were plenty in between. We were there in January to meet Scott Luckie and Tara Luckie, young farmers in their 30s raising a herd of Highland cattle — many as pets, some for meat — in the Lake Stevens area.

Dec 17, 2023 | heraldnet.com | Annie Barker

BOTHELL — Visitors can experience a free light display every day from 6 to 9 p.m. until Dec. 24 at Evergreen Church in Bothell. Light tunnels, a projection of classic Christmas characters and other lighting designs can be seen from the roadside and from marked paths on the property. Chocolate chip and gingerbread cookies are available for free, and specialty drinks — such as hot cocoa — are available for purchase next door at Cultures Coffee House.

Nov 29, 2023 | heraldnet.com | Annie Barker

BOTHELL — As the sun sets earlier in the winter months, residents are making an effort to get outside during daylight hours. Nestled near downtown Bothell, pedestrians and cyclists were rewarded for waking early Tuesday morning to watch the fog lift over the Sammamish River at Bothell Landing Park. The river is frequently full of ducks and the occasional kayaker. Annie Barker: [email protected]; Instagram: @annaleigh_marie.

Nov 2, 2023 | heraldnet.com | Annie Barker

MONROE — Laughter and chatter filled the air along Main Street in Monroe during the city’s Downtown Trick or Treat event. Children, teens and families walked to collect candy from local businesses Tuesday. Baby Shark and Pokemon costumes were popular this year. Dogs sported costumes as well, and spooky decorations adorned buildings. The event, put on by the Monroe Chamber of Commerce, ran from 3 to 5 p.m.Annie Barker: [email protected]; Instagram: @annaleigh_marie.