MONUMENTAL TALKS 2026 – Supporters/Volunteers
Howie Bargreen
Bargreen’s Coffee
The oldest family operated coffee roasting company in the United States.
Bargreen’s Coffee Company was founded by Sam Bargreen in 1898, continued by his son, Howard Bargreen, who, in turn, passed it to his son, Howie Bargreen. For over 120 years, Bargreen’s Coffee has served Everett and the Pacific Northwest. Bargreen’s supplied Coffee to the Seattle and New York World’s Fairs (1962; 1964). Howard Bargreen served 2 decades In the Washington State Legislature. And Howard’s wife, Grace, was an outstanding community volunteer. Given this family background of service, and the many things that Howie has accomplished in his life, it is not surprising that Howie Bargreen identified with the message of our 9/11 Remembrance Event, “Monumental Talks”. The message that Freedom is never Free. And the importance of spreading the spirit of patriotic freedom up through the generations of our families, community and country. An act that has been ongoing in America for 250 years. This is why Howie volunteered to be the Organizer of our 2nd, and now our 3rd, Annual 9/11 Remembrance Event Fundraising Campaign.
Frank Craven
Professional Background:
I grew up in the Silver Lake area and trained at the Sno-Isle Vocational Skills Center in Mukilteo, Washington. While I did not graduate from high school, I have built a comprehensive career in the welding industry. My early career involved working in local shipyards, where I constructed commercial crab boats for the Bering Sea, salmon fishing boats for Southeast Alaska, and West Coast tugboats. I also managed highly technical repairs at Everett Engineering. Later, I joined the Edmonds School District, where I maintained all mechanical systems for gymnasiums, bleachers, and kitchens, in addition to overseeing all welding projects.
Business Ownership:
I have owned and operated three successful welding businesses:
– Nevarc Solutions: Established as a sole proprietorship focusing on commercial and pleasure fishing boats.
– Aalbu Brothers: Started as a job shop and has since transitioned into a thriving truck-building company employing 16 individuals.
– Fidalgo Specialties: A specialized firm dedicated to non-truck fabrications and welding projects.
Community Involvement & Personal Interests:
Outside of my professional endeavors, I hold multiple key leadership positions supporting the Narcotics Anonymous (NA) program in the Skagit Valley. My personal hobbies include boating and fishing, and I currently reside on Fidalgo Island with my wife, Karen.
Patti Larson
Patti Larson is an Office Manager, Property Manager, Personal Assistant, and full-time Crisis Manager. Having managed Dr. Wright’s office for a heroic, record-setting 45 years—yes, 45—she has the medals (and a mild eye twitch) to prove it. Patti’s single most critical responsibility is keeping Dr. Wright on track, on schedule, and in line. She handles the wild world of property logistics, desk-side drama, and executive support with remarkable efficiency and a healthy dose of daily humor. Equal parts master organizer and professional chaos wrangler, Patti brings order, kindness, and plenty of laughs to every room in The Hartley Mansion.