Bothell favors daffodils for centennial events

The city of Bothell is preparing its residents to deck the town with daffodils in preparation for its centennial anniversary next April.

The city is hosting daffodil-planting events at three Bothell parks from 10 a.m. to noon Oct. 4.

Locations include the Park at Bothell Landing (9919 N.E. 180th St.), Stipek Park (1800 242nd St. S.E.) and Cedar Grove Park (22421 Ninth Ave. S.E.).

City of Bothell spokeswoman Joyce Goedeke says there’s no significance behind daffodils aside from the fact that they will bloom in time for a city-wide display of natural pride during the spring.

“We want to see these plants throughout the city, knowing its a centennial symbol,” she said.

The city will provide limited gardening tools for the park plantings, but is asking residents to bring their own gloves and supplies, if possible.

Several groups from the area have already signed on to participate in the events, including local Brownie and Girl Scout troops, as well as the Kiwanis Club.

“This type of celebration doesn’t happen very often, so the fact that citizens are stepping up and want to be a part of this is really exciting,” Goedeke said.

Bothell has other celebratory ideas in mind for its 100th birthday.

City officials plan to open the new Centennial Park, formerly known as Thrashers Corner Regional Park, after developing the area a passive-use recreation space.

A grand opening is scheduled for April 18, with Arbor Day activities included in the event.

The new 52-acre Centennial Park will feature walking trails, restrooms and paved parking. The city also plans to move the historic North Creek Schoolhouse to that location in time for the opening.

Future plans for Centennial Park include restoring the wetlands, developing picnic shelters and building a boardwalk with interpretive signs.

Bothell’s Landmarks Preservation Board is commemorating the city’s centennial birthday with a book titled “Then and Now,” which provides a comprehensive pictorial history of the town.

Board member Pat Pierce said the publication should be available by November 2008.

The Landmarks Preservation Board has also suggested that the city make centennial ornaments.

Among the other centennial activities is luncheon at the historic Lytle House in the Park at Bothell Landing on the city’s official birthday, April 14.

The Bothell City Council is expected to make an official centennial proclamation that evening at its weekly meeting.

Bothell’s Freedom Festival parade will also feature some of the city’s former mayors, and the annual Music in the Park series will celebrate a different era of music from the past 100 years with each concert.

“We’re focusing on taking existing events that already have great crowds and celebrating at those events,” Goedeke said.