by Perry McConnell

Attorney at Law,

Hansen McConnell & Pellegrini

I practically grew up in Marysville. I was raised near Lake Goodwin and attended school in Lakewood. But by the time I made it to high school I wanted out of this area. My greatest hope was to move to Seattle, the big city. It had it all: bright lights, concerts, sports and much more. Marysville seemed boring and slow-paced.

I got my wish. After graduating from Lakewood High School, I went to college at Seattle Pacific University. Then I attended law school. I loved living in the city. Still, after seven straight years of higher education and “big city life” I’m back in Marysville as an attorney. I’m working at a law firm that my father started with several partners when I was a kid.

I chose to come back to Marysville as a business professional. There are many reasons that went into this decision, but I’ll just list a few. First of all, I like that it is a smaller city than, for example, Seattle. You can actually get to know most of the business professionals in this town, something I have definitely not achieved yet though. Second, I like the work atmosphere. It seems to be more relaxed and collegial, and less frantic and adversarial than Seattle. This leads to a healthier lifestyle, I believe. Finally, this city has great places to shop, eat, and get all of your professional services. A lot of this has to do with all of the recent development.

Many people, young or old, have made the same choice to come to this city for business purposes as opposed to just wanting a home or apartment here. I am really encouraged by that, because when I was growing up I got the sense that many of my friends wanted to get out of this area and not return unless it was to visit family for the holidays.

I feel blessed to be working here. I am hopeful for the future of this city, even as we face difficult economic times as a nation. I look forward to playing my small part in defining and achieving our future as this city continues to progress and improve.

I do have to say that a lot of my recent excitement has been generated by my involvement in the Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce. This group works tirelessly to promote this city and improve its quality of life. I have felt so welcome in that group and appreciate it very much.

I look forward to working with others like me. If there are other young — or “younger” is perhaps better — business professionals in town, I’d encourage you to get involved with the Chamber and am currently brainstorming ideas of possibly creating networking opportunities specifically for us under the umbrella of Chamber. Feel free to contact the Chamber of Commerce about getting involved generally or if networking with younger business professionals in town interests you.

The Greater Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce is an independent, non-profit, action agency committed to supporting and advancing the needs of the greater Marysville Tulalip area business communities.