Tukwila Reporter, October 21, 2011

tukwila reporter 10 • 2011

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Choosing Future

SCHOOL CONNECTIONS: Tukwila School District update, 20 & 21

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Choosing the future of Tukwila Three City Council seats and the mayor’s position will be decided by the voters in the Nov. 8 election

By Steve Hunter

Tukwila City Council, Position 6 There is guaranteed to be a new member of the Tukwila City Council next year as voters choose between Kate Kruller and Louise Strander for Position No. 6.

The winner between Kruller and Strander in the Nov. 8 general election replaces Joan Hernandez, who decided against running after 24 years on the council. King County Elections mails out ballots Oct. 19.

Louise Strander

Strander, 48, is the daughter of the late John Strander, who served as Tukwila mayor from 1962-67 and helped bring Southcenter Mall to the city. Strander Boulevard is named after him.

“I think I’d be a great asset to the council,” Strander said in a phone interview. “I bring an unique perspective as the third generation of family who live here. I have the history and I’m also a business owner in Tukwila.”

Strander operates a real-estate management campany. She has served Louise on the Tukwila Planning Strander Commission since April 2010. She moved back to town two years ago after living 10 years in Federal Way. Strander wants to make sure police and fire are fully funded and aims to increase the number of police officers. She also wants the city to build sidewalks in neighborhoods without them.

As far as whether the city should ban casinos, Strander said she could not discuss the issue because of a conflict of interest with property she owns.

Kate Kruller

Kruller, 52, works as an Internet technology project manager in SeaTac and Olympia for the state Administrative Office of the Courts. She has lived in Tukwila since 1992 and previously ran a small business in town.

“I really want to take a look at being responsible with the budget,” Kruller said. “We need to go through it with a sharp pencil and look at things we do out of tradition Kate Kruller and don’t need to protect and what services we should protect.”

Kruller said she has talked to council members and no one seems to have a priority list of city programs and services.

As for casinos, Kruller said it’s a “complex issue.” She added the council needs to further discuss the issue and let people know if the city does lose $2 million annually by

closing the casinos where cuts would be made or what other revenue sources would replace the lost revenue.

By Dean Radford

Tukwila City Council, Position 2

Kathy Hougardy

Kathy Hougardy is seeking a second term on the Tukwila City Council, facing business manager Mackenzie Weitzeil who is concerned about how the City of Tukwila spends its tax dollars Hougardy, a community volunteer and graphic artist, is chair this year of the City Council’s Finance and Safety Committee.

Tukwila, like other cities, is still dealing with the effects of a weak economy.

“The good news is that city revenue is gradually on the rise,” she said. “Any further cuts, if needed, should be planned so that there is minimum Kathy impact on the residents Hougardy and their safety.”

Ongoing problems, Hougardy said, are residential burglaries, car break-ins and car theft. And crime on Tukwila International Boulevard needs to be addressed, especially with the plans for Tukwila Village moving forward on International Boulevard.

Hougardy is working with the City Council and city staff on ordinances to increase safety and reduce crime, including a Chronic Nuisance Ordinance which imposes a fine on properties that have recurring calls for service regarding assault, prostitution, and other offenses.

Hougardy joined three other council members earlier this year to set Jan. 1, 2016, as the date casinos or card rooms are no longer allowed in the city. An advisory vote on the matter is on the Nov. 8 general election.

Closing the card rooms would mean a loss of revenue for the city, but Hougardy said improving sales-tax revenues would help replace those revenues. She also said city employee salary and benefit packages, which have been rising in recent years, need to align more closely with the private sector.

Hougardy and her husband Ed have three sons. She has spent more than 25 years in the graphic-arts industry. She also taught graphic arts at Seattle Community College. She has volunteered in Tukwila’s schools and has served on the boards of local organizations.

Mackenzie Weitzeil

Weitzeil has no political experience but she has been researching the city’s budget.

Weitzeil said there are too many items in

the budget to list that are not her spending priorities, including 10s of thousands of dollars in miscellaneous office supplies.

Casinos should remain in the city, she said.

“Putting people out of a job in this economy and losing millions of tax dollars with an already failing budget with no Mackenzie Weitzeil back up on how to employ these people and another source on where to come up with the loss of money is irresponsible and neglectful,” Weitzeil said.

If elected to the council, Weitzeil would like to serve on the Finance and Safety Committee and the Community Affairs and Parks Committee, because “this is where the biggest abuse of spending seems to be,” she said.

Weitzel and her husband Kevin have three children, a son and two daughters.

By Dennis Box

Tukwila City Council, Position 4

Abshir Mahamed

Abshir Mahamed may be the youngest candidate at 20 years old to seek a seat on the Tukwila City Council, or any other council in the state, but there is little doubt he has the passion and dedication of a young man looking to the future.

Mahamed said in a phone interview that he owns a small business, Camel Foods, on Tukwila International Boulevard.

He said the reason he decided to run for office is the amount of crime he witnesses near his store Abshir Mahamed on the boulevard.

Mahamed said he sees, “prostitutes, gang members and people selling drugs in front of my store. The city is not adequately funding public safety.”

He stated when the city closed the police resource center, “the crime skyrocketed.

Drugs increased, shootings increased, shootings in front of my store.”

Mahamed said he doesn’t blame the Police Department and “feels sorry for the officers.”

He disagrees with closing mini-casinos and the potential loss of revenue if they are banned from the city in five years.

He supports keeping business license fees the same, rather that reducing them, to help the revenue coming into the city.

“We have to look at what we value,” Mahamed said. “If businesses can pay $75 or $100 more a year to get services like police, it is an investment.”

His other issue is tapping into green

technology for economic development.

Mahamed said he was born in the Somalia Republic during the civil war. His father was killed in the war when he as very young and the family fled to the Republic of Kenya. His aunt was living in San Diego and sponsored the family, allowing them to immigrate to America. He grew up in Renton, graduating from Renton High.

He is currently a student at Bellevue Community College and plans to enter medical school.

Dennis Robertson

Dennis Robertson has ridden this campaign horse a few times, this will be his fifth campaign for office.

He served two terms in the 1990s, then left for eight years. After retiring he returned to the political arena in 2003.

He has won close races, including his first against an incumbent and been unopposed.

Robertson, 67, said whether he is in a tight race or unopposed, he campaigns hard, knocking on every door in the city.

Seeking his fifth term, Robertson said his No. 1 issue is public safety.

“Everyone in the city says we have a crime problem no matter what the statistics say,” Robertson said. “When I walk through the city, citizens say it is getting worse.”

The councilman said making Tukwila a better place to live is one of his goals for his next term.

“I want people to stay in Tukwila,” Robertson said. “We have a significant number of immigrants. This would be a fascinating place if peo- Dennis ple would stay.”

Robertson Robertson said the city spends nearly $800,000 a year on human services.

“People get help and get their lives together and move on,” he said.

The core of the problem Robertson said is poor housing options for many.

He said one program that may help is the rental inspection program, with the plan to bring all living facilities up to a “safe, clean healthy place.”

Robertson said the population turnover causes instability in school classrooms and crime problems.

The councilman said he is running for office because, “I enjoy it. It is community service and I enjoy the complexity.”

Robertson said the issue of mini-casinos being banned from the city is an ethical issue for him. He voted for Resolution 2323, banning casinos in five years, because, “my neighbor asked a great question. ‘Do I want a casino near my home?’ The answer was no. For me it became an ethical issue. They could end up near a lot of homes because because of zoning restrictions.”

[ more TUKWILA page 5]

www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2011

The Southcenter Parkway opens

By Steve Hunter shunter@ t u kw i l a r e p o r t e r . c o m

After seven months of Tukwila traffic construction headaches for Westfield Southcenter Mall drivers and businesses, city crews reopened Southcenter Parkway and Klickitat Drive Oct. 13.

Seattle Sounders players Leo Gonzales and David Estrada and assistant coach Ezra Hendrickson helped celebrate the reopening of the streets during a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The Sounders practice at Starfire Sports in Tukwila.

A few temporary lane closures are expected over the next few weeks as Atkinson Construction finishes up the $15.6 million project to improve access to Southcenter Mall.

The projects remaining include turning on a new

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Louise Strander is endorsed by

Tukwila City Councilmembers Joan Hernandez, Joe Duffie, and Allan Ekberg; Tukwila Planning Commissioner Thomas McLeod; former Tukwila Mayor Steve Mullet; former Tukwila City Councilmembers Dave Fenton, Wendy Morgan and Catherine Harris; former SW King County Chamber of Commerce CEO Nancy Hinthorne; Seatac City Councilmember Rick Forschler; and many of your friends and neighbors.

ila w uk 2088 T by cal d se s Lo r o End ghter fi for by: Friends of Louise Strander e r i www.electlouisestrander.com Paid F P.O. Box 88926 Tukwila, WA 98138 • 206-291-6727

thevote

Three City Council seats are on the Nov. 8 general election ballot, along with the mayor’s race

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Mike West is presented with the Treasure of Tukwila award for years of community service

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Foster High School offers a girls swim team for the first time

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Tukwila Police give tips for the holidays to keep families and friends safe.

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Lori Neville gives the recipe for her scrumptious meatball soup

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As a member of the city council I am committed to making Tukwila a better place for all of us.

My Priorities are: 4 Keeping all four of Tukwila’s Fire Stations Open 4 Hiring more police officers to keep our neighborhoods safe 4 Building sidewalks in our neighborhoods

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traffic signal just south of Strander Boulevard; construction of concrete sidewalks near the Doubletree Hotel; installation of a large sign across Southcenter Parkway near the new tunnel with arrows indicating which lane to be in for access to Interstate 5, State Route 518, Strander Boulevard and Southcenter Parkway; continued landscape maintenance; and permanent asphalt striping.

Crews started work in March and the street closures hampered businesses as some drivers simply avoided the construction area.

Drivers will notice a big change with the lowering of the southbound lanes of Southcenter Parkway north of Strander Boulevard. They also will be able to use a new bridge that will connect Klickitat Drive and the northbound lanes of Southcenter Parkway.

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An amateur radio club is forming in Tukwila that will both be fun and provide an essential service for the city during emergency events.

Mark Lium has put together the Tukwila Radio Club (a tentative name) for amateur radio operators.

The club’s first meeting is 7 p.m. Nov. 9 at the Tukwila Fire Station, 444 Andover Park E.

[ TUKWILA from page 2]

BY DENNIS BOX

Tukwila Mayor

Pam Linder

Pam Linder has been serving the Tukwila community for decades, including 14 years on the City Council from 1996 to 2009.

The 60-year-old Linder now hopes to add mayor to her list of services.

Linder said she left her council seat because, “I’d accomplished a lot and I am proud of my record. I thought some new people would want to contribute.”

After a few of years on the sidelines, Linder decided it was time to re-enter the political game.

A top issue for her is communication with citizens and businesses so all are aware of the budget and other issues the city is facing.

“It’s time for key businesses to have input,” Linder said. “Businesses need to be more involved so they know the depth Pam Linder of the problems.”

Linder said at least 40 percent of the population of the city is not involved with the city, including the many immigrants and refugees. As mayor, Linder would like to reach out to those residents.

She noted the city has meetings concerning government affairs and other issues, but there are no regular meetings with citizens.

“I think there are ways to talk and develop good relationships,” Linder said.

She said with the many immigrants and refugees in Tukwila, “I’d like to give people a reason to stay here.”

Linder said with community meetings as mayor she could “identify problems and strengths.”

She also noted when the economy recovers, “It will start here first, businesses will

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Jim Haggerton

Jim Haggerton has severed Tukwila as mayor for the past four years and is seeking his second term.

The 75-year-old mayor said he believes he has accomplished a great deal in the four years, especially considering the economic problems the city has faced.

A couple of those accomplishments include the Southcenter access project, which was completed and opened Oct. 13 ahead of schedule. The project involved a reconstruction of Southcenter Parkway between Strander Boulevard and Tukwila Parkway.

Haggerton said the project was partially funded through a local Jim improvement district Haggerton agreement with area businesses along with federal and state grants.

The mayor stated the LID started with a cost of $8 million to local businesses, but the Puget Sound Regional Council has contributed $2 million to the project.

Haggerton said the money will be used to “reduce the LID for the businesses.”

The Southcenter Parkway extension is another project he was able to get moving in his first term.

Haggerton said he was able to put together a developer agreement that benefitted both the city and the developer.

The mayor said that project will be completed next spring, which includes a fivelane road from South 180th Street to South 200th Street.

With some of the larger projects completed, Haggerton said he plans to concentrate on “improving the residential neighborhoods.”

Haggerton said he wants to improve streets and concentrate on “addressing the crime on Tukwila (International) Boulevard.... I want Tukwila to be a much better place to live, work and raise a family.”

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Lium said he would like those attending to choose the official name for the club.

The club is open to anyone interested in becoming an amateur radio operator or ham. One of the functions of hams beyond fun is to provide emergency communications service in times of emergency.

“We would like anyone interested (to come to the meeting)” Lium said. “Business owners and residents are welcome. We would love to have at least one ham in each company (in Tukwila).”

Lium said there are many options for those interested in becoming a ham. A hand-held analog radio starts at about $120 and a digital about $500.

For more information, go to tukwilaradioclub.org.

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publisher polly shepherd publisher@tukwilareporter.com

Numbers and more numbers Numbers, they can make everyone’s life miserable.

Adding and subtracting numbers has been torturing young kids through adults for thousands of years, and it continues to this day.

Learning how to add, subtract, multiply and divide is mildly annoying for some and a downright sweaty panic for many.

I remember I had a statistics class at 7 a.m. every morning when I was a freshman at the University of Washington. At the time I was pretty sure I had secretly died and been cast into the seventh level of Dante’s Inferno. Statistics class at 7 seemed just like what Dante was talking about.

Little did I know how much use I would get out of that class years later when I was covering horse racing. All those statistical squiggles really helped when I was trying to wheel a trifecta in a stakes race. Particularly when I needed that long shot to make up for six months of bad bets. By the way it never worked out, but that didn’t stop me. My statistics professor did his job, and I learned how to mathematically convince myself I would win ... even in the face of all that darn truth called losing.

I was talking to a woman on the phone a editor@tukwilareporter.com

viewpoint ›write staff

EDITOR'SNOTE

couple of days ago and a comment she made brought back my statistical delusions and gambling fantasies of hitting the score with Gallant Son in the seventh at Santa Anita.

We were talking about government budgets and she said, “Just Dennis because they have it, or can get Box it, doesn’t mean they should spend it.”

I told her I was going to steal her line, and I have.

Now I may not want to hear that when I’m in the press box at the track scanning the Daily Racing Form for the sleeper only I can see, but there is more than a bucket of truth to what she said.

This is the daunting problem every city, including Tukwila, has faced since the “Great Recession.”

How should the cities and other government entities get the revenue needed to provide services, and where should the bucks be spent?

At the heart of the mini-casino issue facing the city is a budget debate. There certainly are the issues of free market without government regulation and the ethics of gambling, but the budget is the crux of this crucible.

With the Advisory Measure No. 1, voters will have to decide whether social card rooms or mini-casinos should be allowed to operate in the city.

The City Council passed Ordinance 2323 in February requiring mini-casinos to close

by January 2016.

Each side of the debate has made passion-

ate and valid arguments about how the city could either deal with or be hurt by the loss of revenue, which is projected at about $2 million per year.

Will a city like Tukwila be able to close a $2 million gap? Yes, they can. I have seen many cities deal with deficits of that size.

The question for the voters is not whether the city can, but should it have to – which is a much more complex puzzle.

Once again it is how a city should get the money, and how should it be spent. It is becoming the question of our time in city after city. If the issue isn’t casinos, it is taxes or revenues or fees for something. It is the same discussion with different names.

When I first began going to the Tukwila City Council meetings a few months ago the casino debate was in full swing. Councilman Joe Duffie said the issue should be taken to the voters for an advisory vote.

I thought that was very wise advice.

These are decisions we all must make in our homes, towns, counties, states and country. We will be defined in many ways by how we get the money and how we spend it. Those decisions will tell us who we are as a people.

I am fascinated by the process in Tukwila over the mini-casinos and the advisory vote.

It is America at its best in many ways. It may be messy, but it is how this form of government works.

Now I think I will go dream up another statistical strategy for the daily double at Santa Anita.

What was it she said? Fortunately, I can’t quite remember.

editor dennis box editor@tukwilareporter.com

contributors dean radford › reporter steve hunter › reporter tracey compton › reporter adam mcfadden › sports charles cortes › photographer

circulation james kostoroski 253.872.6610

The Tukwila Reporter encourages reader participation in your community newspaper.

Share your thoughts in a letter to the editor (200 words or less) including your full name, address and phone number.

HERE’S HOW To submit a letter to the editor, EMAIL: submissions@ tukwilareporter.com FAX: 253.437.6016 MAIL: 19426 68th Ave S, Ste. A Kent, WA 98032 CALENDAR/EVENTS: calendar@ tukwilareporter.com

Letters Vote no on casinos In recent years I’ve watched with great interest how large corporations front themselves as grass roots, community based organizations looking to improve the lives of Americans.

Things like the “Clear Skies Initiative” (An industry-sponsored initiative which sought to roll back allowable pollution emissions not seen since the 1950s) and the “Healthy Forest Initiative” (which was a front for logging of old growth timber on protected lands) are typical of what many of us have come to expect.

Someone recently joked that the gambling industry would roll into Tukwila with a phony grass roots title for the purpose of swaying votes in the upcoming election. They even conjectured it would have the word “family” in it. We both had a good laugh but

on a less humorous note the casino lobby has now registered a political committee with the Public Disclosure Commission. “Families for a Better Tukwila.”

Evidently these “families” don’t know how to spell their home town.

Not surprisingly, the campaign address listed is not that of a family, but rather that of a casino office in Tukwila. One of the four committee officers is a casino manager. One is a political consultant. Only one of the addresses provided is in Tukwila.

In contrast, the supporters of “Free Tukwila” (www.freetukwila.org) are local families operating on modest revenues generated within the community. Our goal is to reveal the true impacts of casinos.

The costs associated with the darker side of gambling – fraud, theft, homicide, child neglect, domestic violence etc. – outweigh the tax revenues casinos provide by a factor of six to one. Gambling proponents won’t tell you this. What you will get is an industry produced message designed to make you believe

casinos are Santa Claus and the tax dollars they provide are free.

Casinos are a business, and by nature serve their own best interests first. Casinos do not improve our city. Casinos are not here to make Tukwila a better place to live. In fact, recent nationwide polling has revealed that they ranked second only to garbage dumps as the most unpopular attribute of a community.

Tukwila is a town with an image in flux. We enjoy a beautiful golf course, parks and playfields. We have backyard wildlife habitats and a river with salmon runs and fishing. On the other hand we are home to more casinos per capita than anywhere else in the state.

With Advisory Measure No. 1 we have a choice to move our community in a positive direction. Do we want Tukwila to be a town where people come to raise their families and businesses enjoy a vibrant community? Or will we be the home of gambling casinos and strip clubs?

The families of Free Tukwila have no special inter-

est groups backing us. Our interest is our community.

Join us. Donate your time. Provide funding. Go to www.freetukwila.org to get the facts.

Vote no on Advisory Measure 1.

Todd Hutchinson Tukwila

Vote for fiscal responsibility We believe in fiscal responsibility. We believe the city should not cut a revenue stream without a plan to replace that revenue or a plan to cut spending.

Last year’s budget hearings were arduous and difficult as the council and the city staff struggled to deal with an $8,000,000 deficit.

To balance the budget, positions were cut including in the Police Department, firefighters agreed to give up a contractual pay raise and all departments took cuts with the Parks and Recreation Department taking a major cut. In addition, taxes were raised on Tukwila businesses.

Gambling in the form of social card rooms is legal in Washington. To operate, they must follow strict regulations. Social card rooms are also called casinos and are located in many cities surrounding Tukwila. Card rooms have been responsible businesses in Tukwila for over 12 years. They provide over $2,000,000 in tax revenue to our city annually.

Voting to end gambling means rejecting $2,000,000 every year.

Anti-gaming proponents do not say how this short fall should be addressed.

It has been alleged that an unnamed council member believes that $2,000,000 could be cut from the budget “without affecting essential services.” What is meant by essential services? That vague phrase has a different meaning for every individual.

Where might they propose cuts? Do they think the city should close a fire station, eliminate police positions, eliminate more youth and senior programs, eliminate/reduce support for human

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www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2011

[ LETTERS from page 6]

services, eliminate/reduce code enforcement, eliminate/reduce community development and planning, reduce needed road, pipe or other infrastructure repairs or eliminate any of the many other city positions and programs which make our city a good, safe place for families to live? Do they wish to eliminate the Backyard Wildlife Fair, the now smaller but still fabulous Fourth of July celebration or the Dr. Seuss program which draws many families and does such a great job of promoting literacy in our youth? While the big Tukwila Days celebration died in the last budget cuts, the Parks and Recreation De-

partment has been creative and produced some smaller family events this summer.

Should those go as well?

With sharply declining monetary support from the state and federal level, our city cannot afford to reject $2,000,000 in revenue from businesses which are responsible members of our community.

Vote yes on Advisory Measure No. 1 on Nov. 8.

Cathie DesJardin Larysa Garvilenko Jennifer Martin Sharon Nakata Marie Parrish David Shumate Stephanie Ulibarri Tukwila

Wean city from casinos

nis) Robertson oversaw the trimming of $8 million from the city budget last That’s the two million year and has stated that, dollar question Tukwila “while difficult, further voters are asking as they cuts are possible.” Happily, decide whether casinos the casino sunset ordinance should stay or go. While gives the council four years the loss of almost $2 mil- to identify unnecessary lion annually is nothing to spending. An independent audit of the city budsneeze at, it is actually get would expedite a very manageable your this process. problem with acSecond, it is reaceptable solutions. sonable to believe First, it is logical that some of the lost to think that further revenue could be rebudget cuts will have to be made. It is not logical placed by other taxes. It is to assume that those cuts not reasonable to believe will be made to our public that existing Tukwila busisafety services as has been nesses and residents will be implied by casino propo- burdened with additional taxes and fees. nents.

Rather, the council can Council member (Den-

voice

use the next four years to implement policies that stimulate new business growth throughout the city.

New businesses mean increased sales tax revenue, more jobs, and true economic growth for Tukwila.

Last, current gambling tax revenue is only 3.6 percent of the 2011 budget— a percentage that is small enough to deal with over four years, and not large enough to panic about right now.

It is entirely possible for the City Council to set aside 25 percent of casino taxes in year one, 50 percent year two, 75 percent year three, and 100 percent year four. By year five, we will be free from depen-

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dence on gambling taxes and have a rainy day fund of almost four million dollars that could be used for special projects.

Our council established the casino sunset ordinance because they believed it was time to wean our city from a source of revenue that has hidden costs and negative social consequences. I applaud that decision and trust the council’s ability to replace that revenue in ways that are beneficial to the city of Tukwila and its citizens.

Lisa Forsyth Tukwila ExpEriEncEd hEavy EquipmEnt/truck mEchanic nEEdEd. Knowledge of diesel engines, hydraulic and pneumatic systems essential. Trouble shooting and basic welding skills required. Electrical knowledge a plus. Must have own tools, good driving record and ability to obtain US Passport. Some overnight travel may be required.

Salary commensurate with experience. Fax resume to 206-223-1733 or email to mechanictukwila@gmail. com. Location: Tukwila, WA 535320

HouGardy

Experience  Integrity  Leadership  Vision Working to:  Create policies that will help the city reduce crime on Tukwila International Boulevard and in our neighborhoods  Continue to bring economic development to Tukwila  Keep our residents, their safety, and their quality of life as top priority when making decisions on the council Tukwila Residents supporting Kathy include: Joe Duffie • Betty Gully • Paul Gully • Joe Roppo • Marilyn Roppo • Joan Hernandez • Bal Goundar • April Chanes • Joe Chanes • Jim Bernhard • Brad White • LeslieWhite • April Dorian • Georgina Kerr • Jon Fertakis • Pamela Bledsoe • Becky Hettman • Bob Hettman • Bernardo Serna • Rebekah Hunter • Sue Kato • Ray Kato • David Leuthy • Connie Leuthy • Barbara Wu • Louie Wu • Kate Anderson • David Siedenburg • Kelly Siedenburg • Ron Lamb • Nancy Lamb • Randy Boyd • Jill Boyd • Brenda Schenck • Nancy Gravender • Dick Gravender • Brandon Jerwa • Jessica Jerwa • Kathy Law • David Law • Dennis Robertson • Karen Robertson • Roger Curfman • Penny Curfman • Teo Hunter • Lisa Krober • Lisa Forsyth • Victor George • Kunjamma George • Ed Hougardy • Diane Tyson • Dick Tyson • John Cruce • Maxine Anderson • Rick Covarrubia • Vern Meryhew • Joan Meryhew • Tami Kent • Ronald Kent • Lynn Sires • Alyssa Bumgarner • Gabriel Serna • Marina Serna • Mark Iverson • Ethel Iverson • Mike Newnom • Jennifer Traynor • Jasminka Kujundzic • Kim McCoy • Jenny McCoy • Tracey Johnson • Victoria Shaffer • Ed Woyvodich • Terri Woyvodich • Tammy D’Oyley • Paul D’Oyley • Mark Hembree • Patty Pavong • Sarah Vallieu • Gerald Knudson • Magda Torghele • Trung Chau • Thanh Thuy Luu • Denny Dunne •Vonnie Dunne • Kevin Coon • Allan Ekberg • Lovina Dresser • Randy Dresser • Todd Hutchison • Lynette Hutchison • Patrick Futz • Laurel Schwartz • Rusty Trudeau • Yvonne Trudeau • Toni Garske • Jim Raimondo • SueAnn Misiak • Mary Bosshart • Steve Bache • Mary Wiles

Tukwila City Council • Position 2

for more information, please visit www.kathyfortukwila.com Paid for by Citizens to Elect Kathy Hougardy • 14950 57th Ave S. • Tukwila, WA 98168 • (206) 818-0510

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8‹

OCTOBER 2011 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

A treasure for Tukwila

MACADAM COURT ADULT FAMILY HOME

initial deposit waived for new admissions!

BY DENNIS BOX

• Home health & hospice care • 24/7 skilled caregivers with awake night shift • Extensive activities program tailored to residents needs

DBOX@ TUKWILAREPORTER.COM

Tukwila found its treasure for 2011 – Mike West.

West, 66, owned Southtowne Auto Rebuild on Tukwila International Boulevard for 39 years.

He opened the doors of the collision repair shop in 1972 and he has been working in the business for nearly 50 years.

According to West, his father said his son got into the collision repair business because, “I was such a reckless driver I had to learn to fix them myself. There was some justification for it.”

West and his wife, Donna, who died in 2009, bought a home in Sea-Tac. He was 21 and he still lives in the home.

He and his wife were married when he was 17 and they raised three daughters, Kelly Shannon Hays, Colleen Kathleen West and Molly Maureen West.

Mike West was raised in Idaho after his parents

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Re-Elect

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Mike West was presented with the “Treasure of Tukwila” award at the Sept. 19 City Council meeting. DENNIS BOX, Tukwila Reporter

moved from Seattle.

When he and his wife first came to Seattle, Mike West worked at Boeing. He was one of the employees laid off during the 1970 economic downturn.

He had been taking auto body repair jobs in his garage. He went to work for Aurora Auto Rebuild, then opened his own shop

in 1972 and never looked back.

He became actively involved in the community because of the crime on the boulevard.

West said when the city annexed the area he became more active in the community.

The murder of a man who had a coffee stand on

Jim Haggerton

the boulevard got the community and West galvanized to take action and help clean up the area.

Through the Tukwila International Boulevard Action Committee, which started out as the Highway 99 action committee, members began cleaning up the area showing they cared about the community.

“We started collecting trash,” West said. “We’ve collected 17 and a half tons of litter since 1995.”

West has worked with the community in many ways over the years, including serving as president of the Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce.

He is currently a commissioner for the Valley View Sewer District.

West continues his love affair with cars. He is restoring a 1933 Rockne sedan delivery (panel) car and a 1934 Pierce Arrow bumper seat coupe.

West was presented with the Treasure of Tukwila award at the Sept. 19 City Council meeting.

Tukwila Mayor

A Man of Action - in 2007 Jim stated his intent to: ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Re-structure internal operations of the City to provide better services Protect our citizens through the best Emergency Preparedness program possible Add more Police Officers Open the Tukwila light rail station & dedicate the expansion of Southcenter Mall Complete Tukwila International Boulevard Construction - Phases 2 & 3 Complete the Design & Construction of Southcenter Access (Klickitat) project Finalize Developers Agreement & begin construction on Southcenter Pkwy Ext Jump start the Tukwila Village Development at Tukwila Int’l Blvd & So 144th St Promote the City of Tukwila through its year long Centennial Celebration Help initiate a community newspaper in Tukwila

A review of the past four years show every goal above completed or in progress, and Jim plans much more for the future!

Proven Leadership - Honest- Experienced - Dedicated Re-Elect Jim Haggerton on November 8th to continue moving

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›9

10 ‹ OCTOBER 2011

« www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

tukwilasports

FOSTER VOLLEYBALL 2011

Discovering the desire to swim

BY ADAM MCFADDEN A M C FA D D E N @ TUKWILAREPORTER.COM

Junior Moa Arquiza will always remember her first day of practice for the Foster High School girls swim team. While girls all around her were excitedly jumping into the pool, she sat by the edge, inching her feet in.

“I never knew how to swim,” Arquiza said. “I was scared, I really didn’t know how to get started, and I was definitely afraid of the deep end.”

For sophomore Jacque Griffin, it was a desire to swim competitively after watching her cousins swim on teams.

“I was super excited because I’ve always wanted to be on a swim team,” Miller said. “But we’ve never had the opportunity.”

All 11 of the Bulldogs swimmers had their reasons for wanting to get in the pool that first day. Now they have a reason to keep going back: They are part of the school’s first girls swim team.

The Bulldogs are running a co-op team alongside Kennedy Catholic this year. The teams share the Burien’s school coaches and practice at the same time,

Moa Arquiza, a Foster High junior, swims in the Foster, Hazen, Kennedy meet Oct. 6 at Hazen High School. CHARLES CORTES, Tukwila Reporter

but compete as separate teams at meets.

The idea started last spring when Foster athletic director J.D. Hill wanted to get more girls involved in sports at Foster. So the school conducted an interest survey to see what sport the girls would want to participate in. The number of potentially interested swimmers was promising, but there was still risk.

“We found that the girls were interested, but we still didn’t know exactly how interested,” Hill said. “Were they committed? Would they actually show up and participate?”

So instead of taking the big risk of forming an independent team, Hill spoke to Kennedy athletic director Bob Bourgette, who offered a co-op team as a solution.

For Hill, the pairing made too much sense to pass up.

“Since Kennedy already uses the Tukwila Pool, it would be a smooth transition for our girls to just walk across the parking lot and practice with Kennedy,” Hill said.

Kennedy swim coach Sean Prothero first learned about the co-op team at the swim preseason meeting.

He wasn’t sure about the plan initially.

“At first I thought it would be a little overwhelming to coach the two teams,” he said. “But I didn’t want to leave them high and dry without a swim coach. I’m all about the sport of swimming, wanting to improve the sport and make it more available. So I decided I would take the job.”

Prothero said it only took a couple of weeks to get both teams in a good rhythm. The only challenge now is designing workouts that take both teams (many Kennedy swimmers have club experience while the Foster swimmers mostly had only swim lesson ex-

perience) about the same amount of time.

Even with the benefits of working as a co-op, the challenges of starting a team from scratch are huge.

Mark Moffatt, a Kennedy parent and swim volunteer, has helped Foster deal with issues like ordering swimsuits and caps, as well as getting the girls in the right lanes and on the blocks at meets.

“Sean’s main duty is to coach the Kennedy girls,” Moffatt said. “Although he is coaching the Foster girls too, I help out on the dry side.”

Beyond the organizational tasks, there are the less tangible traits of a team: How do the swimmers act at meets? How do they act at practices?

It’s in this area that the pairing with Kennedy paid off again. The Lancers, a perennial league and state swimming power, were running as an efficient team literally in the next lane.

“The advantages are huge,” Hill said. “The Foster girls see how committed the Kennedy girls are, and they see how hard they work. Our girls are massively motivated by that.

They understand they are practicing with a seasoned team and they do a good

[ more SWIM page 11 ]

Bulldogs bring home the win ON DECK

• FOOTBALL

Oct. 21: Foster at Renton, 7 p.m.

Oct. 28: Lindbergh at Foster, 7 p.m.

• VOLLEYBALL

Oct. 20: Foster at Renton, 7 p.m.

• GIRLS SOCCER

Oct. 20: Tyee at Foster, 6 p.m.

Oct. 25: Renton at Foster, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 27: Foster at Lindbergh, 6 p.m.

Contact and submissions: Dennis Box dbox@tukwilareporter.com or 253-872-6600, ext. 5050

Foster’s Devin Brown finds some open field for a first down Oct. 7 against Evergreen at Neudorf Memorial Field. CHARLES CORTES, Tukwila Reporter

The Foster High School football team bounced back to beat Evergreen 4914 in the school’s homecoming game Oct. 7.

The Bulldogs (2-4 overall, 1-2 Seamount League) now stand in fifth place in the league, third among 2A teams.

Foster got out to a quick lead against Evergreen and led 37-0 at the half. Avery Wilcox caught a 40-yard touchdown from Cody Anderson. Chris Collins recovered a blocked punt for a touchdown.

Cedric Cooper returned two punts for touchdowns and also scored on a 9-yard rush. Marquis Jackson

threw two touchdowns, one each to Gabe Gutierrez and Sam Puloka, and scored on a 14-yard rush.

Cooper, a junior, is second in the Seamount in rushing yards, with 501.

Cooper has scored six rushing touchdowns and averages 6.4 yards per carry. He’s also averaging 15.5 yards per punt return, fourth in the league.

Gutierrez, a senior, is third in the league in receptions with 12. He’s totaled 219 yards and a touchdown on the catches.

Senior Ian Buckmaster has passed for 240 yards on 18-of-42 passing. He’s

thrown two touchdowns and three interceptions.

Junior Micah Breland and senior Delvin Brown each have an interception on defense. Brown also has a 94-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.

Junior Phillip Saau has been a standout on the defensive line. He leads the league in tackles for loss with seven, and is tied with teammate Morya Breland for the lead in sacks with two.

Foster finishes the regular season with games Oct. 21 at Renton and home against Lindbergh Oct. 28.

www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2011

› 11

[ SWIM from page 10] job of observing.”

From the Kennedy side, Moffatt said the Lancers have been happy to help out.

“Our girls have pretty much taken the Foster girls under their arm,” he said.

“They kind of teach them team spirit and camaraderie. It’s a good situation the Foster girls can learn from.”

Once all of the logistics made sense to make a co-op team, the only concern was about how the Foster girls would take to the team.

“The only obstacle was the unknown,” Hill said.

“Not knowing if girls would actually show up and stick with it.”

When so many girls showed up at the first day of practice, Hill felt a big sense of relief. And he’s continued to be impressed with how the Bulldogs have progressed.

“I’ve been very surprised,” Hill said. “We’re such a diverse school. I knew the girls were excited about the idea, I just didn’t know what level of commitment they would show.

They’re really taking pride in this team.”

After the success of this season Hill intends to continue the program, and even expand it. He understands the girls will need their own coach at some point, but he’s unsure if that

will happen next season or not.

Until that point, the Bulldogs have a coach ready and willing to help out.

Prothero said that while he doesn’t think coaching both teams is a long-term solution, he’s more than willing to keep coaching Foster until the Bulldogs can separate into their own independent program.

“I think they’ve done an awesome job,” Hill said.

“We couldn’t have started this program without their help.”

Prothero even took it one step further to help the Bulldogs feel at home.

He showed up at Foster’s homecoming assembly to introduce the swim team, wearing Foster Bulldog gear.

“I’m sure he took it off right after he stepped out of the gym,” Hill said with a laugh. “But it meant a lot.”

The most important effect of the new team is on the swimmers themselves.

They have taken ownership of the program, especially impressive because six of the athletes are just sophomores.

“It feels good to know we’re all committed and all brave enough to join for the first year of swim,” Griffin said.

Meanwhile, Arquiza has gone from not knowing

Foster 2011 swim team, back row from left, Jessi Weaver, Makayla Anderson, Jacque Griffin and Ciin Nuam, front row from left, Moa Arquiza, Regan Timm, Kalynn Hembree and Jenny Lian. CHARLES CORTES, Tukwila Reporter how to swim to being one of the Bulldogs top scorers this season.

“We’re really proud that we’re the first girls swim

team here,” she said.

Arquiza has scored five individual points, second on the team behind sophomore Makayla An-

derson. Other top scorers are Regan Timm and Jessica Watts.

There are a few extra perks to starting a new

program.

“They were excited to find out that they’re all record holders,” Moffatt said.

12 ‹

OCTOBER 2011 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2011

City of Tukwila • 6200 Southcenter Boulevard • Tukwila, WA 98188 • 206-433-1800 • Online: TukwilaWA.gov

TUKWILA CITY PAGES City offices will be closed on Friday, November 11 in observance of the Veterans Day holiday.

ADVISORY MEASURE: Licensed Card Rooms November 8, 2011 • General Election On February 22, 2011, the Tukwila City Council passed Ordinance No. 2323, which prohibits social card rooms in the City effective January 1, 2016. Since the passage of the ordinance, the City Council has heard and considered many differing opinions from the community as to whether social card rooms should be allowed or prohibited within the City. As a result, an Advisory Measure will be on the November 8, 2011 General Election Ballot, providing an opportunity for all voters within the City to express their opinions regarding social card rooms. Please remember to vote. More information about this issue is available on the City’s website at www.TukwilaWA.gov.

Mayor’s Message

MAYOR: Jim Haggerton COUNCIL PRESIDENT: Allan Ekberg

COUNCIL MEMBERS:

Congratulations Tukwila Green Works members!

On August 16, 2011, the voters of Tukwila approved the formation of a Metropolitan Park District (MPD) and approved the City Council’s governance of the MPD.

Tukwila’s Business Recycling Program provides free assistance to Tukwila businesses that wish to start or improve workplace recycling programs, purchase recycled content goods, and reduce the waste that they generate. The Business Recycling Program also recognizes excellence in business recycling programs through its Tukwila Green Works program. Each Tukwila Green Works member business has a program that includes recycling at least 50% of its waste, practicing at least three waste prevention activities, and using at least three recycled content products. So far in 2011, three Tukwila businesses have been named Tukwila Green Works members. Way to go!

Congratulations to the US Army Recruiting Station!

At their second meeting held on October 10, the Board reviewed loan terms and conditions and authorized the Board President to enter into an Interlocal Agreement with the City of Tukwila for interim financing and repayment. The Interlocal Agreement for support services was extended from a 6-month term to a 12-month term. A list of proposed facility improvements was presented for the Board’s review and discussion regarding related options and improvement priorities. The Board discussed getting input on Tukwila citizens’ future vision of the pool, with suggestions for a community meeting and the creation of a citizen advisory group.

Recognizing a Tukwila Treasure: Mike West At the September 19 City Council meeting, Mike West was presented with the Treasures of Tukwila award for 2011. Mayor Jim Haggerton acknowledged his work as a business owner and an active member of the Tukwila community for over 39 years. Among his many contributions:

The Board of Commissioners will be meeting in Council Chambers on the second Monday of each month at 6:00pm to conduct MPD business. The public is invited and welcome to attend. Meeting minutes and documents relating to the Metropolitan Park District are available for viewing on the City’s website. Click on the “Records Center” link in the left-hand column of our home page at www.TukwilaWA.gov, then click on “Metropolitan Park District ‎(MPD)‎ Pool”.

Webster’s definition of whirlwind as “any circling rush” would seem to fairly accurately describe the past few months and the immediate future in Tukwila. While the economic situation in our region has not turned any significant corners, we’ve made some excellent progress on some very important projects in the area.

• The Southcenter Parkway Extension project is moving forward, with much of the work from South 180th Street north to Minkler very near completion. The roadway from South 180th Street to South 200th Street is expected to be completed in early 2012.

• The Southcenter Access/Klickitat roadway was just opened, well ahead of schedule and – even better – well under budget. Getting this project completed in one construction season before the holiday shopping begins will be a real plus to our businesses, retailers, residents and visitors. We’ve also seen several exciting ground-breakings and grand openings around the City: Cha Cha Thai Restaurant, See’s Chocolates, Aviation High School, the new SCORE jail facility, iFly Skydiving, and recently, a new Value Village.

Tukwila has been host to several military reunions this past year; it is always a privilege to spend time with veterans from all branches of the service and welcome them to our City. The shopping, dining and sports venues, coupled with movie theatres, a state-of-the-art bowling facility, and the new iFly indoor skydiving, make Tukwila a fun destination for all kinds of people – this is truly an “entertainment center” for the Puget Sound Area and beyond! In November of this year, the State Transportation Improvement Board will be having their meeting in Tukwila, in order to see first-hand, many of the projects they have helped fund.

The whirlwind continued in City Hall with the retirement of City Administrator Steve Lancaster in July. Following an intense recruiting and interviewing process, I was delighted to recommend Council confirmation of David Cline as the City’s new City Administrator, effective October 24. David has over twenty years of public service, currently as Lake Forest Park City Administrator and previously as Burien’s Interim City Manager. He has a strong background in long-range financial planning, capital planning and financing, and has a very positive can-do attitude and approach. We are glad to welcome him to the Tukwila team.

Also, our City Finance Director Shawn Hunstock accepted a new role with the City of Edmonds. During his time with the City, he led the change to a biennial budget process, and streamlined many of the processes and procedures in our financial reporting and activities. We wish Shawn every success in his new endeavors.

There are some very exciting changes on the horizon for all of us, and I’m optimistic about the days ahead!

Jim Haggerton, Mayor

• Along with his late wife Donna, he was among the founding members of the Highway 99 Action Committee and one of the first individuals to lead efforts to clean up Tukwila International Boulevard.

• To provide citizen assistance in helping reduce crime, Mike supported Citizens on Patrol reporting criminal activity to the Police., and solicited other business owners and managers to become actively involved.

He also supported the establishment of a Neighborhood Resource Center on Tukwila International Boulevard.

Congratulations to Technology Unlimited, Inc.!

“I’m optimistic about the days ahead”

City officials learn about being prepared for disaster recovery during joint exercise During the week of September 12, Tukwila officials joined those from FEMA, The Boeing Company, King County and the Cities of Auburn, Kent and Renton for a four-day disaster recovery exercise. These public officials and emergency managers were placed in a realistic, fast-paced crisis scenario simulating a major flood in the Green River Valley.

November Library Programs for Children Foster Library 206-242-1640

More than 250 private, public and volunteer agency participants met at Boeing’s Seattle facility to be part of the intensive Integrated Emergency Management Course (IEMC), conducted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Emergency Management Institute. The course focused on the critical and sometimes overlooked transition between the first days of a response and the long-term demands of whole community recovery.

COZY COVE STORY TIME Children’s Story Times Wed, Nov 16, 23 & 30 – 10:30am Come to the Story Cove for stories and fun activities with music to move and groove to!

All ages welcome, ages 6 and younger with adult

ALPHABET ADVENTURES Tues, Nov 1, 8, 15 & 29 – 7:00pm Join Ms. Gaye in your pajamas!

Have fun learning pre-reading skills with a special letter of the alphabet each week.

All ages welcome, ages 6 and younger with adult

The goal of disaster recovery efforts is restoring communities to a ‘new normal’ following a disaster, by getting assistance to people in need, getting critical infrastructure and services working again, and restoring business continuity.

PARTIAL-DAY LIBRARY CLOSURE SCHEDULED

The course concluded with an “After Action Review” that identified what worked well, areas for improvement, and how to incorporate them into a revised recovery plan.

King County offers information online for individuals, families, communities and businesses to prepare for a disaster; get prepared by visiting www.kingcounty.gov/healthservices/health/preparedness.aspx.

• He has served the Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce as past president and as Chair of the Education Committee.

Congratulations to Pacific Rim Environmental!

Library Connection @ Southcenter – 206-242-6044

As a major part of the private sector, Boeing understands the importance of regional response to protect and restore infrastructure essential to its business and economic vitality as soon as possible following a disaster.

By partnering with governmental agencies, Boeing has their emergency plans and procedures in place well before they may be needed.

Joe Duffie • Joan Hernandez • Dennis Robertson Verna Seal • Kathy Hougardy • De’Sean Quinn

Tukwila proudly salutes its residential and business community members… citizens making a difference in our City!

New Metropolitan Park District Commissioners hold first meetings The City Council, serving as the Board of Metropolitan Park Commissioners, held their first meeting of the newly formed District on Monday, September 12, 2011. The stated purpose of the meeting was to establish the foundation of the Park District. A Board President, a Clerk of the Board, and an Executive Director of the Board were decided, and the duties of office were discussed. An Interlocal Agreement with the City to provide support services was authorized. A contract for professional legal services was approved. The Board adopted a resolution establishing regulations for governance and operations of the MPD, and reviewed several other resolutions relating to insurance, MPD finances, and a loan to the Park District by the City of Tukwila.

› 13

Local libraries will be closed the morning of Tuesday, October 25 for staff training. The Valley View Library will open at 12:00 noon.

The Foster Library, the Skyway Library, and the Library Connection @ Southcenter will open at 1:00pm. Use other nearby KCLS libraries or contact the Answer Line for assistance at 425-4629600 or 1-800-462-9600.

WEDNESDAY WIGGLES Wed, Nov 2, 9, 16 & 30 – 10:15am Join us for 20 minutes of songs, rhymes and books just right for busy toddlers!

For ages 1–3 with adult PLAY AND LEARN Fri, Nov 4 & 18 – 10:30am Lots of fun singing songs, telling stories, reading books, creating art and playing!

For children newborn to age 5 and their families

• He has been a long-standing Commissioner of the Valley Vue Sewer District.

Planning an event?

Seattle Southside is excited to announce that their brand new Meeting & Event Guide has hit the shelves. The Guide provides meeting and event planners with helpful information for upcoming functions around the Seattle Southside area, and includes itineraries, facilities and event resources. The custom concierge services offered by Seattle Southside – along with the Guide and online resources – give planners everything they need to make sure their event is a success.

From weddings to family reunions to business meetings to conferences – this guide helps with it all.

To request a free copy of the Meeting & Event Guide, please call 206-575-2489, or visit us at www.SeattleSouthside.com.

Mike has been an active contributor in helping improve the quality of life in our City. As longtime citizens of Tukwila with over three decades of giving to the community, the Wests exemplify the spirit of volunteerism through their compassion, selflessness and service.

Mike’s children as well as many friends and neighbors from the community were present to join the Mayor, Councilmembers and staff in congratulating Mike as the deserving recipient of this award.

City of Tukwila recognized for recycling efforts The City of Tukwila has been selected as one of King County’s Best Workplaces for Recycling and Waste Reduction for 2011. The City’s program was also selected in 2010.

As an award winner, the City of Tukwila is recognized for having established an excellent workplace recycling program, as well as its commitment to reducing the amount of waste sent to the landfill. The City’s actions also help reduce the impacts of climate change, and feed recycled materials back into the economy.

Meeting agendas, City programs, recreation activities, publications and more… the most current information is always available at TukwilaWA.gov!

14 ‹

OCTOBER 2011 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

…halloween happenings Have a Safe & Happy Halloween!

Howl-O-Ween Party Saturday, October 29

Visit our web site for details.

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Well-mannered owners and dogs are invited!

Lots of fun activities!

AN ENVIRONMENTAL PARTNER YOU CAN COUNT ON

TWO for the price of ONE www.thunderboats.org

www.carpinito.com

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Recycle Your Electronics

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Lunch or Dinner entree*

Free for Residents and Small Businesses

Prime Rib Fridays

EWC Group

at Basil’s Kitchen and Bar

www.ewcgroup.net 206.767.9950

12oz or 16oz Cut Prime Rib Served from 5pm to 10pm Every Friday Night *Offer expires 10/31/11. Must be presented at time of service. Not valid with any other offer. Offer valid any day of the week.

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Basil’s Kitchen and Bar is located at the Embassy Suites 15920 W Valley Hwy, Tukwila, WA 98188 425.227.9406 535244

Maze answer

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27 6-8 PM Tukwila Community Center 206 -768 -2822

Name_________________________________________________________________________________________ School _______________________________________________________________________________________ Phone ________________________________________________________________________________________ Address________________________________________________ City _________________Zip _____________ Please mail or bring your completed entry to Kent Reporter: 19426 68th Ave. S., Kent, WA 98032. Open to all ages, however, only kids up to 13 years old are eligible to win. One entry per person. Entries must be received by Monday, October 31, 2011 to be eligible for prizes. Employees of participating sponsors are not eligible to win.

Winners will be announced in the Kent Reporter on Friday, November 4, 2011. No photo copies of entries.

Howl-O-Ween Party

Saturday, October 29 Well-mannered owners and dogs are invited!

Lots of fun activities!

Visit our website for details.

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253-854-WOOF www.familydogonline.com

Sponsored by

www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2011

› 15

…halloween happenings

PUMPKIN PATCH & CORN MAZE!

Fun for the whole family!

OPEN daily through Halloween 9am-Dusk

Pick your own pumpkin on over 20 acres – all shapes & sizes!

• Wander through TWO corn mazes • Hayrides • Weekly prize drawings • Carving supplies • Fall decorations • Squash • Roasted corn • Kettle corn • Fresh picked corn • Fall produce

Group discounts/packages available for school, church and scouting organizations For driving directions, visit our website Located on the corner of 277th & W. Valley Hwy across from Smith Brothers Dairy

534474

253-854-5692 • www.carpinito.com

Maze Answer on page 14.

HALLOWEEN TRIVIA • Halloween is a shortened version of “All Hallows Eve,” the evening before All Saints’ Day, November 1.

Halloween Trick-or-Treating

• Dia de Los Muertos, Day of the Dead, is the Mexican Halloween. It is celebrated November 1 and 2. Mexicans believe the souls of the dead return to their families during this holiday.

October 31 | 4 - 6pm

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• The tradition of Halloween costumes comes from the Scottish.

They believed the dead walked among the living on this night and might steal their souls, so they wore costumes to confuse the dead.

Details online at:

Secret Code Answer: He didn’t have the guts.

KentStation.com

• Poisonous mushrooms called jacko-lanterns are bright orange-yellow. On rainy nights, they glow in the dark.

- Courtesy of Adbuilder

16 ‹

OCTOBER 2011 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

…halloween happenings HALLOWEEN TRICK-OR-TREATING AT WESTFIELD SOUTHCENTER

Monday, October 31, 5:00 - 7:00 pm Mummies, daddies and little ghouls are invited to enjoy safe, dry, trick-or-treating & spooky surprises from participating retailers. While supplies last. Event guidelines apply.

FREE.

DARK HOLLOW HAUNTED FOREST

Royal Arch Park 20821 Renton Maple Valley Hwy SE October 21 & 22, 28 & 29 7:00 - 11:00 pm October 27, 7:00 PM - 9:00 pm This outdoor haunted forest, a nonprofit Halloween special event, invites you to dare a dark forest path where creatures wait to scare! Free parking and a non-scary Family Walk make it a fun holiday tradition! $15/$3 off with Food Bank donation.

BOO IN BURIEN

Downtown Burien SW 152nd St and Sixth Ave SW Saturday, October 29, Noon - 4:00 pm Treats at participating businesses, pumpkin painting, haunted house, children’s costume parade, costumed dog parade, wiener-dog races, hayrides, store specials. FREE. www.discoverburien.com

What Rhymes with

BAT?

List 10 words that rhyme with “bat.”

1. __________

Admission $3 in advance, $5 at the door Tukwila Community Center 206 -768 -2822

3. __________ 4. __________ 5. __________ 6. __________ 7. __________ 8. __________ 9. __________ 10. _________ Some answers: at, brat, cat, fat, gnat, hat, mat, pat, rat, sat, spat, stat

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27 6:00 - 8:00 PM

2. __________

BAT CHALLENGE Fact or Fiction?

When you think about Halloween, many creepy things probably come to mind like goblins and ghosts and spiders and bats. There are tons of myths surrounding bats. Here are some questions about those myths.

How many can you answer correctly?

1) Bats are the only mammals that can fly.

Fact or Fiction?

2) Bats cannot see. Fact or Fiction?

3) Bats are dirty creatures. Fact or Fiction?

4) Bats can carry rabies. Fact or Fiction?

5) Bats often attack people. Fact or Fiction?

6) Bats feed on the blood of others. Fact or Fiction?

7) Bats tend to fly with their mouths open.

Fact or Fiction?

8) Bats help control the insect population. Fact or Fiction?

9) Bats pollinate plants. Fact or Fiction?

10) Bats reseed forests. Fact or Fiction?

Answers: 1) Fact, 2) Fiction, bats can see and some very well, 3) Fiction, bats are very clean and groom themselves like cats, 4) Fact, but few bats actually carry the disease, 5) Fiction, bats are shy and only attack people in self-defense, 6) Fact, there is one type, the vampire bat, that feeds on the blood of cattle and birds, but most bats eat insects or fruit, 7) Fact, bats fly with their mouths open either to catch their dinner or to make high-frequency sounds which helps them navigate through the air, 8) Fact, 9) Fact, 10) Fact

Goulish healthy fun!

As the holiday season approaches, malls and other businesses are more crowded than usual with busy shoppers.

Whether you are about to celebrate a holiday in the coming weeks or not, keep the following in mind when going out to shop — and the rest of the year, too.

USE COMMON SENSE

door.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

• If there are suspicious people in the area, call 911.

• Tell a security guard or store employee if you see an unattended bag or package. The same applies when taking mass transit — report any unattended packages to security or staff.

• Each time you make a purchase make sure you leave with your checkbook, credit cards, cellphone and wallet.

Common-sense measures are the key to thwarting thieves. Some of the easiest things are the most effective: • Do not ever leave your GPS, laptop, purse or any other items in the vehicle.

Leaving the cords in the power port or visible just tells the potential thief there SHOPPING WITH YOUNGSTERS If you go shopping with children duris something worth stealing in the car.

• If you make several purchases and de- ing the holiday season, keep the followcide to put them in your car and go back ing advice in mind for everyone’s safety: • Ensure that any children with you to do more shopping, lock your packknow your cellphone number. Give ages in your trunk and move your cards with contact information to car to another parking location TUKWILA any who don’t. on the other side of the lot or • Make a plan with children in building, where someone watchcase you get separated. Have a cening cannot see you re-park. Since tral meeting place and review with you never know who is watching your children who they can turn to for and thieves often wait for people to help if they find themselves alone. store bags and leave the car.

• Go over the dangers of strangers with • When you buy a large item, such as a TV, which does not fit in the trunk go them so that they know who not to talk straight home and put it in the house to or follow.

• Review McGruff ’s advice on shoprather than risk having it stolen while ping safety with your children before you you shop more or eat at a restaurant. go out: • Park in well-lit areas.

• Be careful of strangers. If someone • Lock the doors and take the keys.

Have your keys in your hand as you are you don’t know offers anything to you or walking to your car. Keep a secure hold asks you to go somewhere with him or on your purse and parcels. Do not put her, run away and tell your parents or a items down or on your car to open the trusted adult immediately.

POLICE

[

check our sports photos online…www.tukwilareporter.com

› 17

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Tukwila Police offer tips and advice to keep yourself and your gifts safe as the busy winter shopping season approaches

OCTOBER 2011

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Fall is the ideal time to plant!

Mild temperatures during initial root growth give plants a head start and root growth can continue into the winter months. Trees, shrubs and perennials can take up to three years before they are fully established.

Planting in the fall provides the time and moist conditions for healthy root growth and ensures plants are better prepared for the flush of spring and summer growth. You can also save a great deal of water when you plant in the fall – especially compared to the summer – because the plants will get enough moisture from natural rainfall alone.

534556

For more water saving ideas, links and to visit our new Natural Yard Care page

go to www.cascadewater.org

• City of Bellevue • Covington Water District • City of Issaquah • City of Kirkland • City of Redmond • Sammamish Plateau Water & Sewer District • Skyway Water & Sewer District • City of Tukwila

534412

Stay safe this holiday season

www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com »

OCTOBER 2011 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

Value Village draws those looking for deals way, opened Sept. 29 at the old Toys R Us store and became the 274th thrift store in the United States, Canada and Australia under the umbrella of Bellevue-based Savers. The company operates stores with trade names of Savers, Value Village, Unique and Valu Thrift.

Savers started in 1954 in San Francisco.

“It’s huge and spacious and well-maintained,” said

By Steve Hunter shunter@tuk wilarepor ter.com

John Polhill III didn’t hesitate when asked what brought him out to the new Value Village store in Tukwila.

“I like to look good at a cheap cost,” said Polhill of SeaTac, as he searched for a shirt or two.

The Tukwila location, 16700 Southcenter Park-

Polhill, who has shopped at other Value Village stores over the last five years. “It’s a great place to shop. I encourage other people to do the same, after I shop.”

Ken Alterman, in his eighth year as president and CEO of Savers, attended a special preview opening of the store.

“We are really excited about this store,” Alterman said. “It’s our largest in the

Fastrak Building Inspections has been authorized by the City of Tukwila, Department of Community Development to perform Rental Housing Licensing Inspections as required by the city.

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Call Leo 206-795-2499 for information or appointment Home Inspector License #245

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The 40,000-square-foot store is twice the size of the old Value Village store in Renton that the company closed in 2009. The store features more than 100,000 items and plans to add up to 12,000 new items per day.

The Renton location was the first Value Village store in Washington. Alterman’s pumped to have found a new South King County location near the Southcenter Mall.

“We grew out of that store,” Alterman said. “We wanted to stay in the area of Renton. We’ve been there 44 years. Ever since we closed, it we’ve been looking in the area. Southcenter is just a natural. It’s a destination shopping area.”

Savers expects to open 23 stores nationwide by the end of 2011. The company just built a new, large store in Bellingham across the street from the old store.

“We’re going larger because that’s what customers want,” Alterman said.

“They want more selection, more variety.”

Customer Pat Stimac of Seattle said she appreciates the choices as she picked through numerous evening

gowns.

“I love the place,” said Stimac who has shopped Value Village stores for 20 years and usually goes to the Crown Hill store in Seattle. “I love buying evening gowns, I found some.”

The brightly lit store and long racks of clothing impressed Stimac.

“It looks like it’s set up pretty much like all of their stores,” Stimac said.

“They’re clean, they’re light.

They’re a pleasant place to shop.”

With a struggling economy, more people seemed to have discovered Value Village because of its low prices.

“One of the opportunities we’ve had in this recessionary environment, so many more people have been exposed to our brand that when they come in they’re shocked that stuff is like near new and at 10 percent of the cost or less,” Alterman said. “You can find five to 10 pairs of jeans in our store that are near new that are just like what you buy one pair for next door.”

Value Village buys much of the clothing and household items from Seattle’s Northwest Center, which

serves the needs of children and adults with disabilities throughout the Pacific Northwest. Charities get paid on how much their deliveries weigh.

Most of the items not resold in the store are sent to a distribution center in Fife and shipped overseas from the Port of Tacoma to developing companies around the world. Only about 5 percent of items end up in landfills and most of those are broken items, Alterman said.

Eighty-five people work at the Tukwila location.

Store hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Sunday.

“We’re excited and hope that Southcenter will be as good for us as it’s been for a lot of other retailers here,” Alterman said.

The store features clothing, housewares, furniture, books, toys and other items.

Value Village also has a large Halloween section.

“It’s new establishment in the area and I know this area is good at donating first-class items,” Polhill said. “I want to come through and take a look at some nice designer items.”

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1ST AVE S & S 116TH ST $109,000 3 BR, 1 BA, 1,044 SF

S 128TH ST & 16TH AVE S $78,000 3 BR, 1 BA, 1,104 SF

OLMSTEAD PL SE & SE 84TH ST $262,000 3 BR, 2.5 BA, 1,808 SF

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www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com »

OCTOBER 2011

› 19

535559

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OCTOBER 2011 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

school connection Tukwila School District #406

October 2011

Improve Health through Safe Routes to School Activities In an effort to improve children’s physical health, academic performance, and personal safety, Tukwila elementary schools are participating in Safe Routes to School programs this fall. The program is a partnership between the Tukwila School District, the Community Schools Collaboration (CSC), Public Health - Seattle King County, the City of Tukwila, the Bicycle Alliance of Washington, and Feet First.

Each school will be holding events designed to encourage students and their families to walk to school together. These walk-to-school days are fun opportunities for kids to try out the trip to school, with balloons, signs, and other incentives.

Students will also receive walking and biking safety skills training in PE classes, using equipment provided by the Bicycle Alliance with assistance from Diamondback Bicycles, REI, and Recycled Cycles. These classes teach important safety rules, such as: always walk on the left side of the road when no separated space is available, wear bright clothing to be seen by cars, and always wear a helmet when biking. The District and the CSC are actively seeking volunteers to help with encouragement events.

These activities build on projects that were completed in the spring, including: “walking audits”, in which parents, students, school and city staff, and other community members walked together to document challenges and opportunities for walking and biking; the creation of a joint City and School District committee to review walking and biking conditions; helmet giveaways by the CSC and the Tukwila Children’s Foundation, the creation of recommended walk-toschool route maps for students; and PE teacher trainings led by the Bicycle Alliance and Feet First.

The goal of the project is to create new or improved systems so that more children will walk and bike to school, thereby helping to combat childhood obesity.

Childhood obesity rates have more than tripled in the past 30 years, while the number of children walking and biking to school has declined. According to the 2009 National Household Travel Survey, less than 13 percent of students between the ages of five and 14 walked or biked to or from school, compared to 48

percent in 1969. Childhood obesity is associated with cardiovascular disease and diabetes, which contribute to the largest causes of death in the region.

All community members can participate by teaching their children safe walking and biking rules, driving 20 mph in school zones, and giving kids on bikes at least three feet of room.

The programs are made possible by Communities Putting Prevention to Work grant funding from the Department of Health and Human Services and Public Health - Seattle & King County.

For more information, contact Carlee Donnelly, Safe Routes to School Program Manager, Community Schools Collaboration, by calling 206-224-9252 or emailing carleed@cscwa.org.

Made possible by funding from the Department of Health and Human Services and Public Health - Seattle & King County.

MORE ABOUT COMMUNITIES PUTTING PREVENTION TO WORK Communities Putting Prevention to Work (CPPW) is a national initiative to prevent chronic disease and promote health through policy, systems and environment changes.

In spring 2010, Public Health - Seattle & King County was awarded two CPPW grants from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one for tobacco prevention ($9.9 million) and the other for obesity prevention ($15.5 million). Obesity and tobacco use contribute to the leading causes of death in our region.

Public Health awarded over 50 local community partners CPPW grants to create changes that improve nutrition and access to physical activity and decrease tobacco use and exposure. Ultimately, these changes will make King County a place where the healthy choice is the easy one, and the unhealthy one difficult.

This will reduce chronic diseases and potentially millions of dollars in medical spending. The focus is on the communities with the greatest needs.

MORE ABOUT THE BICYCLE ALLIANCE OF WASHINGTON The Bicycle Alliance is an alliance of bicyclists, bicycle clubs and other organizations throughout Wash-

school connection

is presented by the Tukwila School District Board of Directors: Mark Wahlstrom, President, 206.243.9855 Steve Mullet, Vice-President, 206.244.7553 Mary Fertakis, 206.767.6053 Dave Larson, 206.244.2313 Alicia Waterton, 206.248.4302 Superintendent: Ethelda Burke, 206.901.8006 Assistant Superintendent: Dr. Mellody Matthes, 206.901.8010 The Tukwila School District complies with all federal rules and reulations and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender, color, national origin, or disability. This holds true for all district students, employees, and district employment and opportunities. Inquiries regarding compliance and/or grievance procedures may be directed to the school district’s Title IX/RCW 28A.640 officer and/or Section 504/ADA coordinator located at 4640 South 144th Street, Tukwila, WA 98168: Nina Melencio, Title IX/RCW 28A.640 Officer (206.901.8005) and Gwen Estes-Zuehlke, Section 504/ADA Coordinator (206.901.8025).

Tukwila School District #406

www.tukwila.wednet.edu • 206.901.8000 4640 South 144th Street, Tukwila, Washington 98168

ington. The Bicycle Alliance supports bicyclists and a bike-friendly Washington by advocating for adequate funding for a complete non-motorized transportation infrastructure; providing a statewide clearinghouse for bicycle education and advocacy; working to increase the percentage of all types of bicycle ridership in Washington; ensuring that bicycles are recognized as a reasonable and mainstream transportation option; and educating Washington communities to become bicycle-friendly and embrace a Share-the-Road philosophy.

The Bicycle Alliance was awarded a CPPW grant to lead Safe Routes to School programs at eighteen schools in South King County and to connect underrepresented community members with policy-makers.

MORE ABOUT FEET FIRST AND WALKING AUDITS Feet First, the state’s only pedestrian advocacy non-profit organization, has been promoting walkable communities in the Puget Sound region and across the state since 1995. Feet First promotes walkable communities for health, transportation, environment and enjoyment, helping people take steps that create better places to live, learn, shop, work and play. Feet First’s mission and advocacy work has several areas of focus, including informing and motivating policy makers to make decisions that prioritize funding and policies for walkable neighborhoods, and to energize and inform the community at large about walkability issues through educational, interesting and interactive means. Feet First works to create walkable communities through its Safe Routes to School program, walking maps, wayfinding and unique community engagement process.

Feet First has organized and conducted Walking Audits for neighborhood associations, business districts, and schools. This service includes research of the local design, outreach, a local walk map for the event, and the detailed report on findings and recommendations. Reports have been used by organizations to support grant applications, to prioritize engineering changes, and to create neighborhood plans.

The Tukwila School District complies with all federal rules and regulations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin (including language), religion, gender, marital status, sexual orientation (including gender expression or identity), veteran or military status, non-program-related physical, sensory or mental disabilities, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. This holds true for all students who are interested in participating in educational programs and/or extracurricular school activities, or in the recruitment and employment of personnel. Inquiries regarding compliance and/or grievance procedures may be directed to the school district’s Title IX/RCW 28A.640 officer and/or Section 504/ADA coordinator located at 4640 South 144th Street, Tukwila, WA 98168: Nina Melencio, Title IX/RCW 28A.640 Officer (206.901.8005) and Gwen Estes-Zuehlke, Section 504/ADA Coordinator (206.901.8035).

The Tukwila School District will also take steps to ensure that national origin persons who lack English language skills can participate in all education programs, services and activities. For information regarding translation services or transitional bilingual education programs, contact the Student Services Department at 206-901-8025.

calendar October 25

School Board Meeting - 6:30pm

November 1-10

Evening Conferences

8-10

Early Release for Conference

11

Veterans’ Day Holiday (No School)

23

Early Release

24-25

Thanksgiving Holiday (No School)

Visit: www.tukwila.wednet.edu for up-to-date information about your schools

www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2011

Tukwila School District #406

› 21

October 2011

Fall Conference Dates SCHOOL

DATES

TIMES

CITIZENSHIP DAY

Cascade View Elementary Tuesday, November 15 1:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

WHAT TO EXpECT Wednesday, November 16 1:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

After arriving, you will make your way through Thursday, November 17 6 stations:1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Thorndyke Elementary

Monday, November 7 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, November 8 PARALEGAL 1:00 p.m. toATTORNEY 6:30 p.m.

INTAKE Wednesday, November 9 1:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Tukwila Elementary

Tuesday, November 8 Wednesday, November 9







Foster High School

12:00noon to 5:00 p.m.

QUALITY COPY 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

REVIEW



EXIT



Showalter Middle School Wednesday, November 9

1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

Tuesday, November 8

12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Be prepared for long wait times Wednesday, November 9 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m.

WASHINgTON NEW AMErICANS, a program of OneAmerica, promotes successful immigrant integration by connecting Legal Permanent Residents (LPRs) to the information and services they need to successfully pursue citizenship and become active members of our community.

AMAO Results for Tukwila School District

ONEAMErICA is committed to the vision of a unified nation with justice for all and works to advance the fundamental principles of democracy, justice, and human rights at the local, state and national levels.

become become A A cITIZeN CITIZENSHIP DAY BrOugHT TO yOu By Saturday, Apr. 16th, 2011 10 AM - 3 PM | Free

LOCATIONS: BELLINGHAM Fairhaven College Bill McDonald Parkway & S. College Dr. Bellingham, WA 98225 CENTRALIA Centralia College Kirk Library Building 600 Centralia College Blvd.

Centralia, WA 98531 360-736-9391 ext. 696 WENATCHEE Chelan County PUD Auditorium 327 N. Wenatchee Ave. Wenatchee, WA 98801 509-665-7022 1-888-273-2219

Our pArTNErS

Applyingfor forCitizenship?

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Come toimmigration Citizenship Day, where volunteer Volunteer attorneys, immigration and interpreters paralegals andattorneys interpreters offer FREE offer FrEEwith assistance with citizenship applications assistance citizenship applications.

>

DATE: Saturday, November 19, 2011 TIME: 10 AM - 3 PM NEXT CITIZENSHIP DAY COST: Free April 16th, 2011 | 10 AM - 3 PM | Free LOCATIONS

For info visit www.WaNewAmericans.org pASCO CENTrALIA

Collegium Cafe Centralia College Call 1-877-926-3924 3525 E A Street Kirk Library Building Text “citizen” to 69302 Pasco, WA 99301 600 Centralia College Blvd.

Centralia, WA 98531

The AMErICAN IMMIgrATION LAWyErS ASSOCIATION is the national association of immigration lawyers established to promote justice, advocate for fair and reasonable immigration law and policy, and advance the quality of immigration and nationality law and practice.

Each year the state generates a report • The number of ELL students meeting Garvey Schubert Barer American Immigration Lawyers on the success of ELL students in each AYP in reading and math La Casa Hogar (Yakima Interfaith Coalition) Association, WA Chapter Lutheran Community Services NW Counseling & Referral Service school district. This report isAsian called AMAO, Below are Tukwila School District’s Northwest Federation of Catholic Community Service of which stands for Annual Measurable AMAO resultsCommunity for the 09-10 school year.

Organizations Western Washington Immigrant Rights Catholic Refugee and Immigration Achievement Objectives. It gives a general These resultsNorthwest became available in the TukProject Services (CCSWW) OneAmerica Central Lutheran Church, Yakima picture of three different elements: wila School District Report Card section of Soreff Law Centralia College • The annual increase in theChelan number of the OSPI website on September 15.

Tacoma Community House Public Utilities Tukwila Equity & Diversity Commission Chinese in Information and Service Center ELL students making progress learnYou can view them at: Tukwila School District Collegium Cafe Washington Defenders Association Educational Service District 123 http://reportcard.ospi.k12.wa.us/ ing English • The annual increase in the number of WLPTAmao.aspx?groupLevel=District ELL students who have attained English &schoolId=109&reportLevel=District &orgLinkId=109&yrs= proficiency

DoDo You Need You NeedHelp Help

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

TuKWILA Foster High School 4242 S 144th Street Tukwila, WA 98168

yAKIMA Central Lutheran Church 1604 W Yakima Ave Yakima, WA 98902

Call the hotline!

To APPlY, You NEED To:

For more information on Citizenship Day

• Be at least age 18 by the date you file

to been signa up for free pre-screening •or Have lawful permanent resident for at leastassistance: the last five years (or three years, if married to a u.S. citizen).

(

1-877-WA-NEWCI(TIZEN) (1-877-926-3924) • Have been present in the u.S. for 2.5 of the past five years (or 1.5or of the past three, if married to a u.S. citizen), and have not been outside the u.S. for one year or more within the last five years (or three years, if married to a u.S. citizen)

www.wanewamericans.org

www.wANEwAMErICANS.org

22 ‹

OCTOBER 2011 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

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Lori Neville, the self-described “Lunch Lady” of Foster High School, has just the recipe for rainy, cold, fall afternoons: hearty meatball soup.

A recipe from her great-grandmother, Neville said, “It’s just something that we’ve always done and you can make it out of anything out of your fridge.”

It’s that versatile, she said.

Neville’s version of the soup has the traditional carrots, celery and onion, plus cabbage, peas, corn and stewed tomatoes.

She’s worked at Foster High School for 21 years in the kitchen and serves about 600 lunches a day, plus the breakfast program.

Neville has learned a few things about kid’s tastes over the years and said that they don’t necessarily gravitate to things that are bad for them.

“They vary from high school kids who are pretty particular and right now they’re all into fruits and vegetables and healthy type eating, so that’s what we provide,” Neville said.

Surprisingly, she doesn’t see kids overdoing it at the snack cart where cookies, juice and water are sold.

The Tukwila School District provides around 3,000 meals a day to students, which includes lunches, breakfast and snacks.

In charge of coming up with all those menu ideas is the Food Service Director, Craig Huckins, who has been in the position for a month and a half.

A lot of those ideas come from the students, others come from popular items in the marketplace like teriyaki bowls.

Outside of that, Huckins gets a lot of ideas and recipes from the National School Lunch Program.

“The National School Lunch Program (has) a set of guidelines that they give us that we have to adhere

Lori Neville, Foster High’s “Lunch Lady,” dishes up some comforting and hearty meatball soup. TRACEY COMPTON, Tukwila Reporter

to in order to be qualified for our free and reduced program,” said Huckins.

As of May 2011, the district had 2,201 students that qualified for free or reduced meals.

Right now the lunch program has put a big emphasis on meals with no transfats, reducing sugars and introducing more whole grains.

Also the Tukwila School District happens to be the most diverse district in the country, according to a New York Times article, and its students’ tastes mirror that makeup.

“We’re really diverse here and the students’ tastes we don’t always know about,” said Neville. “So, we’re gripping from what the kids tell us.”

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LORI NEVILLE’S MEATBALL SOUP

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325 Tukwila Parkway ) Tukwila, WA 98188 534463

BY TRACEY COMPTON TCOMPTON@TUKWILAREPORTER.

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The secret is in the soup

2 pounds ground beef 1 large onion 4 medium carrots 8 celery stalks 1 medium head of green cabbage 1 large can (28oz.) sliced stewed tomatoes 1/2 cup frozen peas 1/2 cup frozen corn 1 package beef stew seasoning 1 large can beef broth (you can use water instead) salt pepper garlic salt 1 tablespoon margarine or butter Season ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic salt. Roll

That feedback back has resulted in Somalian spaghetti and Vietnamese sandwiches being added to the menu.

The district is also piloting a program at two of its elementary schools that brings fresh fruits and vegetables into the classroom.

The district applied for and received a grant that allows for the delivery of the produce to classrooms where teachers give a brief tutorial on its nutritional value to students before serving it.

The district is considering expanding the program to the third elementary school even if they don’t get funding.

into 1 inch meat balls.

Fry or bake meat balls until done. When done sprinkle beef stew seasoning over them and set aside.

Chop onion into medium chunks. Peel and chop carrots into medium chunks. Wash and chop celery into medium chunks. In a large pot on medium high, put in margarine and fresh veggies. Add salt and pepper to taste and sauté veggies until tender.

When veggies are slightly tender, after about 10 minutes, add stewed tomatoes, green beans with liquid frozen corn and peas.

Pour in meat balls and cover with broth or water, bring to a boil then turn down to a simmer about one hour.

Ten minutes before serving, chop cabbage into large pieces and add to soup. When cabbage is tender, you are ready to eat.

www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2011

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A bad day fishing A $10,000 donation is better than a day at the transfer station.

Don’t spend all day going to the transfer station with your truck full of garbage, yard waste and recyclables when you could be telling tall tales.

Call Allied Waste at 206-682-9735 to find out how you can save time, gas and money with our residential service.

Allied Waste Services has donated $10,000 to the Tukwila Heritage Museum and Cultural Center to kick off its “Value of History” partnership with the heritage museum.

Company representatives Don Frey and Anne Laughlin delivered the $10,000 check to Pat Brodin, chairman of the Tukwila Historical Society, and Louise Jones-Brown, the museum’s director.

“Our company is a part of the rich heritage of the City of Tukwila,” said Frey in a press release. “We have maintained a community partnership that supports local non-profits, community and civic organizations and the celebration of Tukwila’s rich tradition and history.”

Frey said the company values its place in Tukwila’s history. When the company heard about the heritage

tukwilacalendar Spend your time doing something better.

Tukwila Historical Society President Pat Brodin, left, museum director Louise Jones-Brown, Allied Waste Municipal Relationships Manager Don Frey, and Anne Laughlin with Allied Waste community relations, pose at the entrance of the Tukwila Historical Society with the $10,000 donation to the Heritage and Cultural Center. Charles Cortes, Tukwila Reporter

center’s need for financial support, “we jumped at the opportunity to support this priceless treasure,” he said.

Earlier this summer, the company met with museum staff, including JonesBrown and Brodin, at the museum in the former and historic - Tukwila City

Hall on 59th Avenue South on Tukwila Hill.

Jones-Brown and Brodin talked with the company about their plans to make the building more accessible to the public and about the idea of a reading room for children, a nod to the building’s past as a library.

A ghoulish good time

Ham coming to Tukwila

The annual Autumn Harvest Festival is 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 27, at the Tukwila Community Center, 12424 42nd Ave. S. The carnival has lots of new activities to keep kids moving and healthy.

There will be a costume contest, Halloween crafts and games.

Children must be accompanied by a parent. Cost is $3 per child in advance or $5 per child at the door.

A new amateur radio organization is being formed in Tukwila that will help to foster volunteerism, offer radio and emergency management training and build a sense of community. The club’s first meeting is 7 p.m. Nov. 9 at Tukwila Fire Station 51, 444 Andover Park E. For more information email info@ TukwilaRadioClub.org.

Boulevard cleanup Volunteers are needed to help pick up litter along Tukwila International Boulevard 9-10 a.m. on Oct. 29, organized by the Tukwila International Boulevard Action Committee. The location varies; email rick@forschler.org for details.

Museum to honor veterans The Museum of Flight at Boeing Field will recognize the contributions of the nation’s veterans 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 11 at the museum’s Side Gallery. There will be music, including patriotic songs. A ceremony at 1 p.m. will include Tukwila city officials and veterans. Family events are planned, too.

AN ENVIRONMENTAL PARTNER YOU CAN COUNT ON 535934

www.AlliedWasteNorthwest.com 534380

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OCTOBER 2011 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

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