Tukwila Reporter, March 21, 2012

tukwila reporter 03 • 2012

Easter’s Colorful Tradition

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2012 Board of Directors Officers Chair John Marchione, mayor City of redmond vice-Chair David Knight, Commissioner Covington Water district

Water for our Future Message from the Chair

secretary/treasurer Jim Haggerton, mayor City of tukwila

John Marchione, Mayor of Redmond dear neighbors, it is my honor and privilege to have been elected as the chair of the Cascade Water alliance Board of directors. i have served on this board for many years, and am very proud of its accomplishments as we continue to provide clean, safe, reliable water for our residents. to do this, Cascade works with regional partners like seattle and tacoma, and has purchased the beautiful Lake tapps in pierce County. state approval to eventually use this for future water supply was granted last year.

Why is this important?

Because this beautiful lake is a reservoir that will eventually provide all of us with drinking water.

Without this, we cannot grow or prosper as a region.

But our mission at Cascade is to think about tomorrow as well. as our region grows, so will demand.

Our residents do their part in saving water every day—from turning off the water while they brush their teeth, by purchasing water efficient appliances and toilets for their homes, and not watering their yards when it’s raining.

We as a regional board are entrusted with making sure there’s water in that tap when you turn it on today and tomorrow. that is why we purchased and will maintain Lake tapps to ensure we will be able to meet that demand for the rest of the century.

John marchione

Conservation matters | The Savvy Gardener Class Series

Board Members Don Davidson City of Bellevue Fred Butler City of issaquah Penny Sweet City of Kirkland Lloyd Warren sammamish plateau Water and sewer district Jon Ault skyway Water district

Alternates Robert Brady sammamish plateau Water & sewer district Jeff Clark Covington Water district Kevin Wallace City of Bellevue Stacy Goodman City of issaquah Doreen Marchione City of Kirkland Hank Margeson City of redmond Verna Seal City of tukwila C. Gary Schulz skyway Water & sewer district

photo by Janice thomas

Presented by Cascade Water Alliance and the Saving Water Partnership

Get your spring planting off to a great start! Join Cascade for free savvy Gardening Classes and discover how to create a beautiful, healthy and waterwise lawn and garden. there are dozens of classes from which to choose in many locations, and they’re all free of charge. the savvy Gardener Classes will inspire you and give you practical advice on creating and maintaining beautiful landscapes that are good for you and the environment. topics include: • Food Gardening • plants and Garden design • drip irrigation and rainwater Harvesting • natural Yard Care Learn from popular Gardening experts marianne Binetti, peggy Campbell, don marshall and many others. visit cascadewater.org to see a complete list of classes and to register.

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www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » MARCH 2012

›› INBRIEF

School levy is approved Tukwila residents voted to replace the expiring school and operations levy for the Tukwila School District during the Feb. 14 election.

The vote was 66 percent in favor and 33 percent against the levy.

The levy will help fund school programs and operations including teaching, school supplies, technology, athletics, transportation and facility maintenance and operations, along with other school programs and operation expenses. The levy is not a new tax, it replaces the expired levy approved by voters in 2008.

Taxes collected by the proposed levy will provide approximately 27 percent of the district’s general fund budget, including mandated programs not funded by the state.

Spring Break Camp April 2-6 The Spring Break Camp offered by the City of Tukwila is 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. April 2-6 at the Tukwila Community Center.

It’s a week of fun, games, arts and crafts and field trips when the Tukwila School District is on its Spring Break.

Space is limited. The fee is $99 for residents and $119 for non-residents. For more information contact the community center at 206-768-2822 or visit www. tukwilawa.gov.

The dates for the camp were incorrect in the Tukwila City Pages of February’s Tukwila Reporter.

Tukwila gets help fixing leaks As part of national Fix A Leak Week this month, Cascade Water Alliance and the City of Tukwila sent out Toilet Leak Detection mailers to nearly 100,000 homes in Cascade’s service area throughout the Eastside and South King County.

Rotary bowlathon is critical to mission of Tukwila Pantry

By DEAN A. RADFORD d r a d f o r d @ t u kwi l a r e p o r t e r . c o m

The Tukwila Rotary Club’s annual fundraiser for Tukwila Pantry, the 2012 Let’s Strike Out Hunger Bowlathon, is Saturday, March 24.

The Tukwila Rotary Club is one of the founding partners for the Tukwila Pantry and the event is the club’s main fundraiser each year, according to club member Tracy Gallaway.

The event typically raises about $10,000 for the food bank, which serves the residents of Tukwila, SeaTac, Burien and Boulevard Park.

“Food is a very basic need,” said Gallaway. “With the times of today, more and more people are utilizing the food pantry.”

Joe Tice, Tukwila Pantry director, said the bowlathon has raised more than $100,000 for the food bank.

The money is critical to the agency’s survival, as it pays for two salaries, purchases, repairs to equipment and other costs.

“The partnership with Rotary is immeasurable,” said Tice.

The morning of casual bowling fun is 10 a.m.-noon at ACME Bowl, 100 Andover Park W., Tukwila. Bowler check-in begins at 9:45 a.m.

Prizes are awarded for bowlers and teams who raise the most money for Tukwila Pantry.

The Toilet Leak Detection mailers include dye strips and simple instructions to check the toilet for leaks.

More information on detecting a leaking toilet and other conservation programs can be found at www. cascadewater.org.

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The City of Tukwila will hold a public hearing at 7 p.m. March 26 in the City Council chambers at City Hall, 6200 Southcenter Blvd., on a mixed-use, commercial building at 12909 East Marginal Way S. It includes 23 apartments and retail space.

206.767.9950 | www.ewcgroup.net

Columnist Chuck Parrish says everyone should have their garbage collected, for the better good of the community.

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It’scontained

Starbucks built a new drive-thru using shipping containers that evoke the industrial nature of its Tukwila neighborhood. It’s earth-friendly, too.

and money for the Tukwila Pantry will be accepted at ACME Bowl between 9 a.m. and noon March 24.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

For additional information, or to register for the event, contact Gallaway by email at strikeouthunger@ tukwilarotary.org or by phone at 206992-4578.

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waffleday

For more than 50 years The Pancake Chef has been serving up pancakes and waffles. March 25 is a special day: It’s International Waffle Day.

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

• WA State Licensed Home Inspector • 16 years experience for information or appointment

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Free for Residents and Small Businesses EWC Group

myopinion

Tukwila Rotary has room for bowlers – teams of four or individuals – to participate. There is a minimum donation of $50 per bowler.

Bowlers must sign up in advance no later than Friday, March 23; there is no registration available the day of the event, although anyone can stop by to watch the teams play and donate.

Donations of non-perishable food

Call Leo 206-795-2499

Recycle Your Electronics

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Two Tukwila Pantry volunteers, Ansar Rasulov, left, and Telman Mekhridzel, sort vegetables recently at the food bank. Dean Radford, Tukwila Reporter

Fastrak Building Inspections

City to hold building hearing

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Home Inspector License #245

bulldogdrive

The Foster Bulldogs boys basketball team made it into the postseason but just fell short of making it to the state tournament. The girls did well, too.

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tukwilastory

The Tukwila Historical Society every month will share an artifact and its history, from it’s collection at the Tukwila Heritage and Cultural Center.

tukwila reporter ›19426 68th Avenue South › Kent, WA 98032 ›253.872.6600

› www.tukwilareporter.com

4 ‹ MARCH 2012

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viewpoint regional publisher polly shepherd publisher ellen morrison publisher@tukwilareporter.com

editor dean radford editor@tukwilareporter.com

contributers steve hunter › reporter tracey compton › reporter sarah kehoe › reporter adam mcfadden › sports 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, e-mail: submissions@ tukwilareporter.com fax: 253.437.6016 mail: 19426 68th Ave S, Ste. A Kent, WA 98032 calendar/Events: calendar@ tukwilareporter.com

The Tukwila Public Works Department is putting together a proposed new garbage/recycling contract to be considered by the City Council. The contract becomes effective in November. The details are still being worked out. The apparent successful competitor for the contract is Waste Management. The other competitors are the current service provider, Allied Wastes, and Cleanscapes. This is the “stuff ” of city government that we expect to be handled well on a daily basis. We can feel confident in that expectation. They do an outstanding job, day in and day out.

There is one issue that will not be decided until after a Chuck public meeting Parrish most likely to occur in April. The subject: Shall participation be mandatory or optional? About 2,600 singlefamily residences subscribe to collection services.

About 900 households do not subscribe.

Some will immediately object to mandatory collection. But slow down … let’s think about this.

Would you feel the same way if you knew that your neighbors would have to pay extra if collection was not mandatory? The 2,600 households will have to pay a premium of approximately $20,000 annually to the collection contractor. This is about 64 cents extra per month.

Would you feel the same way if you knew that mandatory collection would significantly improve the cleanliness and image of our city? People who do not subscribe to collection services dispose of their garbage in a variety of ways. Responsible residents self haul to the transfer station; others rely on illegal methods like dumping, using dumpsters owned by others, using public receptacles not intended for that purpose, commentary

›write staff

Mandatory garbage collection is best for all burning, burying and accumulation on property. Our public works department understands that these problems will not be eliminated with mandatory collection but do expect significant improvement and reduction in the cost of hauling away garbage left by others.

Would you feel the same way if you knew that self-hauling costs are going up?

King County is aware that almost all county residents have access to affordable and efficient garbage and recycling collection.

King County plans to increase the current minimum dump fee (approximately $20) and has already announced that free recycling will not be available at most transfer stations.

Would you feel the same way if you knew that you could participate for as little as $60 a year?

The anticipated minimum service level will be around $4.75 to $5 a month – call it $60 a year. For this, you get a monthly pickup of a 35 gallon garbage cart supplied by the contractor. Residences (not businesses) get unlimited recycling (within reason) picked up every two weeks. Unlimited? A 96 gallon cart is supplied as standard; one can place additional recycling at the curb.

Public education and outreach efforts will advise how to box, sack or tie up the additional recyclable materials. Finally, you get access to the city’s annual curbside collection of bulky items like appliances, furniture and electronics at no additional cost.

Would you feel the same way if you knew that discounts are available for some families that qualify based on income, disability, senior and other considerations?

For the greater good of this community, step up and support your neighbors and fellow residents of Tukwila. Let the council know that you support mandatory collection in Tukwila by email at citycouncil@ TukwilaWa.gov and at the upcoming public meeting.

Contact Chuck Parrish at editor@tukwilareporter.com

tukwilaletters to the editor Thanks, Tukwila, for support On Feb. 14, Tukwila voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 1, Replacement of the Expiring School Programs and Operation Levy for the Tukwila School District.

The current public school funding model requires local citizens to provide financial support for schools through their local taxes. This means that it is essential that citizens believe in and support their school system. The citizens of Tukwila have continuously shown their support by consistently passing the district’s operation

levies. The levy provides 27 percent of the district’s general budget.

We are very thankful for the strong support that this community gives to our students—the future leaders of this community and the world.

Thank you, Tukwila, for saying “Yes” to schools one more time.

Ethelda Burke, superintendent, Tukwila School District

coffeewith

Carol Kolson does volunteer work at the Tukwila Pond in Southcenter. Submitted

A volunteer makes difference

By SARAH KEHOE skeohoe@tukwilareporter.com

Carol Kolson has been a volunteer all her life.

“I think we all have a responsibility to be good citizens and to give back to the community we work and live in,” she said. “I was raised to be a giving person and have always held that close to my heart.”

Kolson is an ambassador for the Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce and volunteers at the Tukwila’s Habitat for Humanity, the Tukwila Historical Society and the Domestic Abuse Women’s Network (DAWN).

“I came to work in Tukwila in 2006 and I started getting involved in the community right away,” Kolson said. “My family inspired me to always put others first.”

Kolson’s sister and baby died in a car accident in 2003. It was at the funeral where Kolson became inspired by the life her sister led.

“Many people came up to me and told me that my sister helped so many people,” Kolson said. “This made me realize how we all have the power to touch someone’s life in a positive way.”

Kolson was dealing with domestic-violence issues at her home during her sister’s death.

“Absorbing this tragic loss and fighting for my two sons in court was a lot to take on,” Kolson recalled. “Every day you wake up and say, ‘Gosh, I woke up again today,” and you have to move on. You have to appreciate your life and every day that comes with it.”

Kolson’s experience with domestic violence led her to DAWN, where she hoped she could help women get out of abusive relationships.

“What drives me and motivates me to volunteer is that there wasn’t a place to go to for help in the county my (abuse) occurred in and it was very frustrating,” Kolson said. “Victims desperately need safe havens they can go to and get the help they need. Survivors need these safe havens to, they need to be applauded for their courage and to know that life goes on and there are resources for them to use to start fresh.”

Kolson is the main fund-raiser and financial adviser for DAWN. She helps with financial literacy classes, sets up phone collections sties and answers phone calls that come through the crisis line.

“We find that a lot of survivors of domestic violence aren’t allowed to have access to bank accounts so their credit needs to be rebuilt,” she said. “They need bank [ more KOLSON page 5 ]

www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » MARCH 2012 ›

She helps with museum benefit [ KOLSON from page 4] accounts, financial guidance and the help to get their first home.”

Kolson says volunteering at DAWN helps her get through her own experience.

“It’s great to see these women getting help and moving on,” she said. “Everyone deserves a second chance.”

At the Tukwila Historical Society, Kolson helps with fundraising events and procures items for the annual auction.

“There are many things that need to be done to improve the building,” she said. “I’d never done a gala before, so I decided to join last year and give it a shot. I want to do all I can to help raise money for their renovation project.”

Kolson has served on the chamber for several years, serving as chair-elect and chairwoman as well as organizing many golf tournament fundraising events.

“It’s been really fun, the chamber is a great place for people to get involved,” she said. “I think I have had the privilege of bringing in new members to the chamber, just by telling people what the chamber can do for them. It’s a great place to learn about business issues and what’s going on in the city.”

Kolson’s future goal for volunteer work is to be more active with Tukwila’s Habitat for Humanity.

“I am really feeling excited about Habitat this year,” Kolson said. “I want to create more charity events and be more active. I think it’s a great organization, everyone deserves to have a roof over their head and they help give people that opportunity.”

RN Student is Seeking Participants

By Steve Hunter shunter@tukwilareporter.com

Tukwila is the site for a one-of-akind Starbucks drive-thru built out of used shipping containers.

The store opened in December at 10100 E. Marginal Way S. and features four shipping containers. Three of the containers are 40 feet long and one is 20 feet long.

“Our designers were inspired to create this store both as a result of the shipyard that can be seen out the back windows of our headquarters in South Seattle as well as a desire to recycle the same kind of shipping containers that transport our coffees and teas around the world,” said Starbucks spokesman Zack Hutson in an e-mail.

Many of the old shipping containers end up in scrap yards after an average lifespan of about 20 years, Hutson said.

“Starbucks is experimenting with new design formats that reclaim the expired containers – taking them out of scrap yards and converting them into stores,” Hutson said.

The company also is focused on green-building initiatives not only to help reduce operating costs but also to lead by example and to push the environmental design envelope in retail.

“This means finding solutions that help keep things used throughout

Starbucks in Tukwila is built with containers. Charles Cortes, Tukwila Reporter

the company’s supply chain, like old shipping containers, out of the waste stream,” Hutson said.

The store is the first operational Starbucks to be built using a fully reclaimed material exterior. The store also reduces materials by using simplified environmental signage. The building itself serves as a sign post, while form painting on the asphalt intuitively guides customers into the drive-thru.

“Our store designs reflect Starbucks core mission as a gathering place for the communities we serve, as well as a commitment to reduce our environ-

r a t S e Th Your Child’s

to assess interest in an Adult Family Home Cooperative

• Reduce Long Term Care Costs • Decrease the Medicaid Burden

Meetings will be held at the:

Tukwila Community Center, Rm A Thursday, April 5, 6-8pm Tuesday, April 10, 9-11am 12424 42nd Ave S. Tukwila, WA 98168 We hope to hear your views, experiences and needs.

If you are interested please attend a meeting convenient for you.

Refreshments will be served.

For future meeting information, please email sam1tess@gmail.com 597493 or leave a voice message 206-257-0040

MACADAM COURT ADULT FAMILY HOME

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

Call us today & schedule a tour!

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Industrial chic at Starbucks

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SOUTHCENTER CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY

g Everythin toward is geared ild’s your ch nd a comfort t enjoymen

411 Strander Blvd. Suite 303 Tukwila, WA 98188 206-575-1130 ★ fax: 206-575-1133

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mental footprint and use our scale for good,” Hutson said.

Starbucks corporate architect Tony Gale III explained what the design accomplishes.

“We were able to open our minds to the use of very common elements destined for the landfill as structure for a high-quality, drive-thru coffee house design – essentially creating an industrial beacon for sustainable thinking,” said Gale in an email.

Store hours are 4:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Monday through Friday and 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Dr. Robert Buda D.D.S., M.S. DENTAL AND ORTHODONTIC SERVICES

• Millions of school hours are lost each year to dental-related diseases.

• Tooth decay is the single most common chronic childhood disease.

Regular visits to Southcenter Children’s Dentistry are the best way to combat these problems. Dr. Buda and his staff will make your child’s visit a fun and comfortable experience from the very first visit.

At Southcenter Children’s Dentistry - we take your child’s oral health and dental care seriously!

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AND PRODUCTS ★ 6 month preventative exams ★ Free Orthodontic exams ★ Brushing for toddlers ★ Teething tips Our office is fun and kid friendly. ★ White Fillings We have great games ★ Sports Guards and giveaways during ★ Space Maintainers the year. Your child gets a prize and sticker ★ Thumb Guards at every visit. ★ Anxiety Medication ★ General Anaesthesia available Dr. Buda is currently accepting many different insurance plans. Over the last four years we have become a preferred provider for 7 major insurance companies including: •Aetna •Assurant •Cigna •Delta •DSHS •Great West •Guardian •Humana •Metlife •Premera •Regence •WDS •United Concordia 590769

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www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » MARCH 2012

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

TUKWILA CITY PAGES Duwamish Gardens habitat replacement project design

PUBLIC MEETING

You are invited to attend a Public Meeting on Monday, April 23, to provide your comments about a mandatory garbage collection program for all of Tukwila’s residents. The Public Meeting will be held during the scheduled Council meeting, which starts at 7:00pm.

Meeting will address Mandatory Garbage Collection The Tukwila City Council will hold a public meeting on Monday, April 23, 2012 to provide residents with an opportunity to provide comments on the implementation of a mandatory garbage collection program for the City of Tukwila. The meeting will take place during the Council meeting in the Council Chambers at Tukwila City Hall at 7:00pm.

The City weighs the following important considerations in examining the merits of a mandatory collection program.

Approximately 74% of Tukwila single-family customers have garbage collection. What do non-customers do with their garbage? Many self-haul to King County transfer stations or use other legal disposal methods such as sharing service with a neighbor or obtaining permission to use someone’s dumpster.

Self-haulers will be facing some issues. The current minimum fee for using Bow Lake and other King County transfer stations is $20, with expectations for an increase in January 2013. Additionally, King County has decreased recycling opportunities for self-haulers on the premise that almost all King County residents have access to garbage and recycling collection.

Unfortunately, others rely on illegal disposal including burning, burying, using commercial dumpsters without permission, accumulating garbage in rental spaces, or dumping in unauthorized places. In 2011, Tukwila’s Code Enforcement Office handled 105 trash and garbage complaints. Most of the complaints were for accumulation of garbage, yard waste and bulky items in private properties. Through a mandatory collection program, citizens would be provided a basic level of service that includes monthly garbage collection, recycling service, and participation in the annual curbside collection events at no additional fees. These services would help curb illegal dumping/accumulation of garbage in private properties and have a positive effect on Tukwila’s neighborhoods.

Why implement mandatory collection if some residents currently handle their materials legally? The new contract provides a very economical service level that is actually less expensive than self-hauling. The lowest service level is a once-per-month collection of one 32-gallon garbage cart (cart provided by the contractor), unlimited every-other-week recycling and access to the City’s annual curbside collection/clean-up program where bulky materials and appliances can be set at the curb for pick-up at NO additional charge.

Under the new contract, the service cost of $4.75 for one pick-up per month is less than paying the minimum $20 fee at King County’s transfer station three times a year.

With a City-wide mandatory garbage collection program, individual customers save 64¢ per month on their rates. The minimum service level provided under the new contract ($4.75 for one pick-up per month) is beneficial to low-income households. (Of course, $4.75/month is more expensive than illegal disposal, but illegal disposal increases costs to the community at large.) The new contract also provides discounts for seniors and disabled customers. Eligible households receive a 50% discount on collection services ($2.28/month minimum level), less than other legal disposal options.

For more information about this upcoming meeting, please call Frank Iriarte at 206-431-2445, or send an email to Frank.Iriarte@TukwilaWA.gov.

The City of Tukwila recently began design of the Duwamish Gardens habitat replacement project. Purchased by the City in 2008, the Duwamish Gardens project is a 2.16-acre site, with 250 feet of Duwamish River frontage, located along the northern bank of the Duwamish River and along the west side of East Marginal Way South.

The goal of the Duwamish Gardens project is to create approximately 1.25 acres of shallow water mudflat and marsh habitat, and 0.8 acres of uplands planted with native vegetation. The project will also include a pedestrian path, interpretive signs, and visitor overlook. Final site layout and features for Duwamish Gardens will be further defined during the design process, which will involve consultation with tribal interests, permitting, funding agencies, WRIA 9 Habitat Team, and interested citizens.

The Duwamish Gardens design will be headed by J.A. Brennan, a local landscape architecture firm that specializes in the design, planning and restoration of parks, recreation facilities, and habitat sites. This firm has completed a number of successful waterfront and shoreline parks and recreational facilities, including the award-winning Herring’s House Park and Terminal 105 Viewpoint Park on the Duwamish River in Seattle. The design team includes scientists and engineers, helping ensure that the Duwamish Gardens project is based on sound science to maximize the benefit to the community and to the habitat resource.

MAYOR: Jim Haggerton COUNCIL PRESIDENT: Verna Seal

COUNCIL MEMBERS:

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Joe Duffie • Dennis Robertson • Allan Ekberg Kathy Hougardy • De’Sean Quinn • Kate Kruller

Tukwila is working with its citizens to create and preserve an enhanced outdoor quality of life in our neighborhoods.

City is seeking citizen and business input regarding updated Tukwila tree policies Did you know that you live or work in a forest? The trees lining Tukwila’s streets and roads, in parks and yards, on the City’s hillsides and on both public and private property, are part of the community forest all around us. Like all forests, these trees support wildlife, clean the air, help with stormwater, add remarkable beauty, and contribute to our quality of life.

The City of Tukwila is gearing up to review land use policies that relate to trees in the community and the role they play in our environment. Upcoming revisions to the Comprehensive Plan and related ordinances will deal with tree issues, such as when and where trees can be removed, tree protection during development, landscaping requirements for development, restoring the forests in our parks, and proper tree care.

If you have an interest in Tukwila’s trees – as a business owner, worker or resident – and wish to have input on these issues, please send an email to Trees@TukwilaWA.gov, or contact Carol Lumb at the City’s Department of Community Development: 206-431-3661. The City’s website will soon have a link to information, plus we are developing an email distribution list to keep interested community members current on tree issues. We look forward to receiving your input.

Funding for the Duwamish Gardens design effort is through grant funding from Washington State’s Recreation and Conservation Office, the King Conservation District, and matching funds from the City of Tukwila.

New flashing yellow left-turn arrows coming soon to Tukwila To improve traffic safety, the City of Tuk- Drivers will see one of the following lights as they approach wila will begin to implement a new traffic an intersection with the new traffic signal display: signal control system in the near future, which utilizes a flashing yellow left-turn STEADY RED ARROW signal. Flashing yellow left-turn arrows means STOP. are becoming more and more common.

Based on national research, the flashing Drivers turning left yellow arrow is expected to improve intermust stop and wait. section safety in certain locations.

Do you know what to do if you are waiting to turn left and you see a flashing yellow left-turn arrow? It’s simple: drivers are allowed to cautiously turn left after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.

(Oncoming traffic has a green light.) As always, drivers must determine if there is an adequate gap in traffic before turning.

After it flashes, the flashing yellow left-turn arrow then becomes the better-known steady yellow left-turn arrow. The steady yellow left-turn arrow means what it has always meant: Stop, if you can do so safely. Do not enter the intersection if you can stop safely. Vehicles in the intersection should complete their turn.

Just remember: Flashing Yellow = Turn with Caution

If you are interested in learning more about or participating in the Duwamish Gardens design, please contact Ryan Larson, Surface Water Senior Engineer, at Ryan.Larson@TukwilaWA.gov, or give him a call at 206-431-2456.

STEADY YELLOW ARROW means STOP, if it is safe to do so.

The light is about to turn red.

FLASHING YELLOW ARROW means TURNS PERMITTED, after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, then proceeding with caution.

STEADY GREEN ARROW means TURN LEFT. A protected left turn; oncoming traffic must stop.

Do not go straight.

Flood safety awareness is always in season Although the majority of the flood season is over and National Flood Safety Awareness Week (March 12–16) has passed, flooding constitutes a direct threat to some parts of our community. Tukwila’s Emergency Management division offers these tips to residents and businesses for identifying activities that can save life and property in the event of a flood.

Take steps now to protect your property and financial security before disaster strikes.

• Clean and maintain storm drains and gutters, and remove debris from your property to allow free flow of potential floodwater.

• Install backflow valves in waste lines to keep water flowing in one direction.

• Protect your well from contamination.

• To avoid damage, anchor or elevate fuel tanks and elevate the main breaker or fuse box and the utility meters above the anticipated flood level in your home or business.

Another great Spring Break Camp - enjoy a week’s worth of fun, including field trips, games, arts & crafts, and more! We’ll even throw in breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack. Space is limited, so sign up early!

On the second Saturday of each month, from 10:00am to 12:00pm CITY It’s a chance to stop by and speak informally with a Tukwila City Council COUNCIL member about anything on your mind regarding your community.

CHAT Come join us at our new location: FOSTER GOLF LINKS CLUBHOUSE – 13500 Interurban Avenue S

Next Chat: Saturday, April 14

• Learn your flood risk; properties not located within high-risk areas can also flood. Insurance agents can help check your risk. You can also find out more at FloodSmart.gov.

• Most homeowner’s insurance policies don’t cover flood damage; consider flood insurance for both your structure and its contents. Flood insurance policies typically require a 30-day waiting period to take effect. If you already have a flood policy, remember your policy needs to be renewed each year. You can learn more by visiting these websites: www.FloodSmart.gov and www.Fema.gov.

• Build an emergency supply kit. Food, bottled water, first aid supplies, medicines, and a battery-operated radio should be ready to go. Visit www.ready.gov for a complete disaster supply checklist.

• Move valuables and sentimental items to the highest floor of your home or business.

• Plan and practice a flood evacuation route. Ask someone out of state to be your “family contact” in an emergency, provide the contact’s address and phone number to those who will need it.

• Inventory your household possessions for insurance purposes. Keep a written and visual (photos or video) record of all major household items and valuables, even those stored in basements, attics or garages. Create files that include serial numbers and store receipts for major appliances and electronics. Have jewelry and artwork appraised. These documents are critically important when filing insurance claims.

• Store copies of irreplaceable financial and family documents in a safe place, preferably protected from both fire and water. Documents include automobile titles, tax records, stock and bond certificates, deeds, wills, trust agreements, birth and marriage certificates, photos, passports and insurance policies. Keep originals in a rented safe deposit box. And don’t forget the household inventory file.

• Review your insurance policies to see what they do and do not cover; learn if your coverage pays replacement cost or only the actual cash value of insured property. Be sure that your insurance is sufficient to cover recent home renovations or improvements.

The City is committed to working with the community in being prepared for, protected against, responding to, and recovering from hazards. For more information, please visit TukwilaWA.gov/disaster/basics.html, or call 206-871-8742.

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

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MARCH 2012 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

By TRACEY COMPTON

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tcompton@tukwilareporter.com

Ukraine’s Pysanky an Easter tradition for 2,000 years On the cover: Teena Quartarolo/photo by Dean Radford

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While fluffy bunnies, candy chicks and painted eggs signify Easter for some Americans, the holiday is marked by Pysanky for Ukrainians.

Pysanky are decoratively painted Easter eggs from a tradition that is said to go back 2,000 years.

A group of Red Hatters, The Duwamish Divas, tried their hands at Pysanky in a recent Tukwila Community Center class.

The tradition dates back to the time before Christ, when people supposedly decorated eggs, believing that powers were embodied in them.

This is according to Luba Perchyshyn’s Ukrainian Easter Egg Kit, the one that Sheri McConnaughey uses to instruct the community center class.

Pysanky marks the coming of spring. With the arrival of Christianity, Pysanky symbolized goodness prevailing over evil.

The intricately painted eggs are not intended to be eaten. They are raw eggs intended to be saved; they take five to seven years dry out.

McConnaughey has been painting the eggs in this style off and on for more than 20 years.

“It’s just one of those things you think about once in awhile and you bring it back; it’s just kind of fun,” she said.

She has Norwegian heritage and learned from her mom’s German neighbors in the 1980s.

She has taught the Ukrainian egg class at Tukwila Community Center several times, hoping to attract some of the city’s large Ukrainian community. So far, there’s been no one of that culture in her class.

In the March 8 class the Duwamish Divas got to work.

“She should have given us wine, then we would have been more steady,” said Shirley Wendt, trying to draw on her egg using a kistaka.

The kistaka is one of the tools needed for Pysanky, along with beeswax, a candle, non-edible chemical dyes, oilfree hands and raw white eggs.

McConnaughey describes the process as kind of like batik.

First, one starts with a white egg.

Then wax is applied to the areas that

Lois Barber proudly displays the Pysanky Easter egg she created at the Tukwila Community Center. Dean Radford, Tukwila Reporter

are to stay white. Then the egg is dyed from lightest color to darkest, waxing over each color as you continue to dye it darker.

It takes patience to use the kistaka, as many of the Divas found out.

Diane Buck called the technique “absolutely wonderful.”

“My sister’s very good at it and I have several of her eggs in my china closet,” Buck said. “Now I appreciate it a lot more; it’s hard.”

The women spent the morning and afternoon drawing and dyeing their

eggs, then it was off to the oven to melt off the wax.

And finally they were presented with beautifully patterned eggs.

As part of Ukrainian tradition, the eggs are given to relatives and friends as a talisman, signifying the “Rebirth of Man.” For Ukrainians the Krashanka, or solid colored hard-cooked eggs, are blessed along with the Pysanky on Easter Saturday. The hard-cooked eggs are the first food eaten by Ukrainians after sunrise mass on Easter.

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www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » MARCH 2012

Waffle Day is every day at Pancake Chef

By TRACEY COMPTON tcompton@tukwilareporter.com

Many special events are marked in March.

Among them, National Women’s History Month, St. Patrick’s Day and the start of spring. But, did you know that March 25 is International Waffle Day? What better place to get a waffle fix than Tukwila institution, The Pancake Chef.

The restaurant is known for its German pancakes and fritters, but its waffles are also popular.

Owner Loren Sisley shares his secret for the perfect waffle and offers these two recipes for buttermilk waffles and berry compote.

“Too many people whip the air right out of the batter,” said Sisley.

Over whipping causes problems and if the batter is done just right, there may be a few lumps, he said.

At The Pancake Chef, they use three recipes for their waffle batter: a fiber mix, buttermilk and sourdough.

One of their more decadent creations is their Bacon Waffle.

It’s the perfect combination of salty and sweet, baked with chopped bacon. It’s served with two healthy, healthy in size that is, strips of bacon on top.

The Pancake Chef will celebrate its 53rd anniversary in Tukwila in July.

Sisley supports the Tukwila Police Department with food for its Special Olympics activities annually.

He’s been making pancakes since 1959, when he went from bus boy to the kitchen of Smitty’s Pancake House.

Smitty’s was a large restaurant chain in the 1960s and ‘70s, Sisley said.

He came to The Pancake Chef, on Military Road, in 1973. His wife Rachel is part owner but not as involved in daily operations.

localflavor

›9

›› THE RECIPES

Buttermilk waffles - 1 1/2 cups milk - 1 lb. Krusteaz pancake mix - 2 oz. melted butter - 4 eggs whipped well Hand mix milk, pancake mix, eggs and butter, but don’t over whip.

Put in waffle iron for three minutes. If the iron isn’t Teflon, spray lightly with vegetable oil.

Berry compote - 2 lb. bag blue or blackberries frozen, thawed and drained - 1 bottle Torani syrup or other latte syrup - 4 oz. lemon juice - 3 oz. pectin blended with 1 cup sugar Bring syrup and lemon juice to a boil.

Slowly add in pectin and sugar mix while whipping. Continue whipping until blended well.

Cover and let simmer with heat on for a few minutes, then fold in thickened syrup with berries.

Put on top of waffles and serve.

Loren Sisley, owner of The Pancake Chef restaurant, sits down in front of his Bacon Waffle. March 25 is International Waffle Day. Tracey Compton, Tukwila Reporter

Southwest chamber combines two major events SeaTac and Tukwila will provide updates to the business community.

The mayors present will be Brian Bennett of Burien, Dave Kaplan of Des Moines, Tony Anderson of SeaTac and Jim Haggerton of Tukwila. The mayors will address specific issues within each of their cities, with a focus on economic

development activities.

The Business Showcase portion of the program will be 11 a.m. – noon, and from 1:30 pm – 2:00 pm. This is an annual opportunity for members of the chamber to showcase their businesses to the community, engage in extended networking and go home with invaluable business connections.

The luncheon will be held 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Rainier Golf and Country Club, 11133 Des Moines Memorial Drive S., Burien.

This event is sponsored by Aesthetic Rejuvenation by Dr. Brecht, Clean Scapes, Cox Financial, Marine View Law & Escrow, T-Mobile and Waste Management.

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The Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce will combine two major events at its April Membership Luncheon on Friday, April 13, at the Rainier Golf and Country Club.

Chambers will network at the Annual Business Showcase, while the mayors of Burien, Des Moines,

10 ‹ MARCH 2012

« www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

tukwilasports

Foster Bulldogs drive into winter postseason

By ADAM MCFADDEN a m c fa d d e n @ t u k w i l a r e p o r t e r . c o m

The Foster boys basketball team finished one game short of the 2A state tournament.

The Bulldogs (13-14) finished the season strong, going 10-5 in the final 15 games.

Foster beat Olympic 62-59 and Eatonville 42-36 in the sub-district tournament to make it to districts. Once there, the Bulldogs started off with a bang, beating Port Angeles 59-41.

Foster closed that game on a 24-7 run, Jimaun Horton scoring 15 points to lead the way.

Foster lost to top seed Clover Park in the next round but rebounded to top Sequim 53-45. Then the Bulldogs faced Kingston in a winner-to-state, loser-out game.

Foster fell behind by three points at the half but closed the game to one heading into the fourth quarter. Kingston went on a 22-10 run in the fourth quarter to take the win.

The Buccaneers went on to place third in the state tournament. The other team Foster lost to at districts, Clover Park, placed fourth at state.

It is the second straight year Foster finished short of state, after making the tournament four years in a row from 2007-2010.

Ablie Leigh led the team with 12 points per game. Gabe Gutierrez was second with 11.2. Leigh also led the team with 6.8 rebounds, 2.6 steals and 4.1 assists per game. Ammar Husanovic chipped in 6.6 per game.

Leigh made the first all-Seamount team. Gutierrez made the second team and Husanovic earned honorable mention.

Tukwila School District invites you to a free screening of

“Children in No Man’s Land” (40-minute film plus Q&A)

Thursday, April 12, 2012 6:30-8:00 pm

Girls at district The Foster girls basketball team made a run in the district tournament but ultimately finished short of state.

The Bulldogs (9-15) lost to Eatonville 6244 in the first round of districts, then bounced back to beat North Kitsap 48-47.

Their season ended when Olympic beat them 60-49.

Foster’s Ablie Leigh drives against Foster suffered Lindbergh’s Jimmy Keum. Charles through a seven-game Cortes, Tukwila Reporter losing streak midseason but went 5-2 in league play to end the regular season.

Sahara Hill led the team with 21.3 points, 12.3 rebounds and 3.7 steals per game. Her rebounding total led the Seamount and she was second in the league in scoring.

Bianca Benevides was second on the team with 12.7 points per game. Her 3.4 assists per game led the team.

Hill made the first all-Seamount team. Benevides made the second team and Chris Balansag earned honorable mention.

Woyvodich wrestles to fourth in state Foster freshman Cale Woyvodich placed fourth at the 2A state wrestling tournament at 106 pounds.

Woyvodich started the tournament by beating Othello’s Isaiah Barrera in a 4-3 decision. In the next round he topped Sumner’s Travis Filleau in an 8-6 decision.

Woyvodich lost his first match of the tournament 2-0 in overtime to Quincy’s Gabe Martinez in the quarterfinals.

In the consolation bracket he beat Barrera again, this time on a 5-3 decision. Then he lost 7-2 to Quincy’s Christian Alejandrez to take fourth.

Foster High School Performance Arts Center 4242 S. 144th St., Tukwila, WA, 98168

Some 100,000 unaccompanied immigrant minors cross the U.S.-Mexico border every year. At any given time, an average of 700 of them are being detained by U.S. Homeland Security. Mostly teenagers, children as young as 10 have been known to reach the U.S. alone.

Some children come to the U.S. in search of asylum. Others are searching for family.

Many are fleeing physical, sexual, and/or emotional abuse. Often orphaned, they have grown up fending for themselves. Fleeing to the U.S. is their last resort, their salvation.

The assistance you need

The independence you want The dignity you deserve

“Children in No Man’s Land” chronicles the journey of two cousins – 13-year-old Maria de Jesus and 12-year-old Rene – as they attempt to cross the U.S.-Mexico border, willing to risk it all to reunite with their mothers and create a better life for themselves.

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Free and open to the public, this screening is co-sponsored by Refugee & Immigrant Children’s Program, LCSNW, www.refugeechildren.net For more information, please contact Tukwila School District ELL and Student Services 206.901.8028

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www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » MARCH 2012

› 11

tukwila’s story

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This ink drawing of Tukwila’s historic City Hall is by Robert G. Brighton, dated 1975. Tukwila Historical Society

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City’s hall now full of its history Today, the Tukwila Historical Society begins an exploration of Tukwila’s history, its story. Each month, the society will feature an artifact from the museum’s collection. Dean A. Radford, editor.

The Tukwila School/City Hall building is now 90 years old. It was built in 1922 by the Conservation Corps of America and was used as Tukwila’s City Hall from 1947 to 1978 and as a school. The Tukwila Historical Society is now using the building as its headquarters.

Our organization is seeking new members and welcomes the community to contact Louise Jones-Brown, acting director at the Tukwila Heritage and Cultural Center, by calling 206/244-HIST or email: tukwilaheritagectr@tukwilahistory. org for more information about membership or donations.

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The Tukwila Historical Society is hoping to have donations in hand or committed by early May for the Second Annual Gala and Auction to benefit the Tukwila Heritage and Cultural Center.

The fundraiser is 3 p.m.-9 p.m., Saturday, May 19, at the Foster Golf Complex on Interurban Avenue.

This year’s auction is being held in memory of Louise Strander, one of the society’s founders, who died last October.

A single ticket to attend the silent auction and reception is $30. The ticket price is $75 to attend the reception and dinner, including the live auction. Tickets can be purchased online at www.brownpapertickets.com or at the museum, 14475 59th Ave. S. The historical society also is looking for donations of an auction item. More information about donating an item is available by calling the museum at 206-244-4478. The museum’s email is tukwilaheritagectr@tukwilahistory.org Contacts to donate money or memorabilia to the museum are Louise Jones-Brown and Pat Brodin.

Items already donated include give certificates, including one for $500 from Bruce Hudson Portrait Studio, experiences and gift baskets.

Organizers are hoping to have about 100 items for the auction.

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MARCH 2012 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

2012

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