By Larry Vogel/For Lynnwood Today

Fourth grade teacher Sarah Berkley of Soundview School in Lynnwood had no idea when she assigned her students to write a persuasive letter that it would result in a personal visit to her classroom from Edmonds Mayor Dave Earling.

Two of her students, Sage Stefonic and Ella Wallace, had enjoyed family bowling outings at Edmonds’ Robin Hood Lanes…until the facility was torn down last year to make way for a new Walgreens (see related story here.) They decided to use the writing assignment to ask Mayor Earling why this had happened and to ask about getting a new bowling center for Edmonds.

“My family and I really LOVED Robin Hood Lanes,” wrote Ella. “I think we should have a bowling place in Edmonds because bowling is awesome. Plus kids need a good place to have fun and bowl.”

Sage’s letter was no less to the point: “I need you to understand that a lot of people are disappointed. Robin Hood Lanes was the best, it was close and young people need fun activities.” During his visit to the classroom Tuesday, Earling related how he had spent many happy times bowling with his children at Robin Hood, and that he totally understands and supports the need for healthy, fun places and activities for young people.

“But in this case the property owners made the decision to sell, and the city didn’t have a direct role,” he explained. “While I don’t see a new bowling facility in Edmonds’ future, there are plenty of programs through our Parks and Recreation Department, many targeted directly to young people, that can help fill the void left by the loss of Robin Hood Lanes.”

Earling concluded by promising to have Parks and Recreation staff contact the class and outline the array of fun programs and activities offered by the City of Edmonds.

“I love it when young people take an interest in their community,” said Earling. “This is the best meeting I’ve been to all week!”