Tukwila Reporter, July 15, 2015

tukwila reporter 07 • 2015

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coverstory | page 10

SOUNDERS BUILDING FUTURE IN TUKWILA

SCHOOL CONNECTIONS: Tukwila School District update, page 15

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Parks Watch Program getting citizen input As part of the pilot Park Watch Program, the Tukwila Parks and Recreation Department is hosting five kick-off events throughout the city over the summer.

These “See You in the Park” social get-togethers invite neighbors and park users to meet directly with parks maintenance staff,

play games led by the Recreation Division, enjoy complimentary food and socialize with friends and neighbors.

The first event on July 8 at Joseph Foster Memorial Park was a “huge success,” with more than 150 neighbors attending, according Robert Eaton, the city’s

parks and recreation superintendent.

“It was a great time interacting and connecting with the neighbors,” he said.

The community’s input will help Tukwila’s Parks and Recreation Department cultivate programs specific to each park. It will help the city increase two-

The Parks Watch Program event at Joseph Foster Memorial Park offered a chance to interact with city officials about the park – and enjoy some refreshments. City of Tukwila

way communications between parks maintenance staff and park users, further enhance positive relationships in the neighborhood and identify strategies to encourage neighborhood ownership of parks.

Goals of the Tukwila Parks Watch Program: • Better connecting parks staff with neighbors • Fostering community ownership of parks • Enhancing safety and reducing vandalism • Ensuring neighbors and park users have a vehicle to communicate parksrelated issues Here are the upcoming community meetings; all events run from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.

• July 15, Riverton Park • July 22, Duwamish Park • July 29, Tukwila Park • Aug. 4, Crestview Park For more information, email ParksWatch@TukwilaWa.gov or call Kris Kelly at 206-433-7157.

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This family friendly event is FREE but we will be collecting car themed toy donations to support Tukwila’s Spirit of Giving Program.

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Take a load off as we put kids in the driver’s seat at our annual Touch-a-Truck event! We’ll have Tukwila’s biggest heavy-duty rigs ready for their viewing & playing pleasure! Come down and honk our horns, kick some (really HUGE) tires and visit with exhibitors as they distribute free safety tips for summer.

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www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » JULY 2015

Tukwila’s transit center officially opens

BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM

For several weeks thousands of bus riders used the new Tukwila Urban Transit Center to get to jobs and shopping in Southcenter or to transfer to other buses.

Calling the transit center an “amazing asset,” Tukwila Mayor Jim Haggerton joined King County Executive Dow Constantine and other officials June 29 to officially cut the ribbon on the $7.5 million project.

“This transit center is another critical piece of infrastructure to help Tukwila achieve its goal of turning the Southcenter Urban Center into a vibrant neighborhood where people live, work, shop and play,” said Haggerton.

The project was funded by state and federal grants, the City of Tukwila and Westfield Southcenter.

Genevieve Christensen with Westfield Southcenter welcomed those attending. Also speaking were King County Council member Dave Upthegrove and Steve Gorcester, executive director of the Washington State Transportation Improvement Board.

About 2,700 riders board or exit transit serTukwila Mayor Jim Haggerton vice at the center, served

by RapidRide F Line and routes 128, 156 and 906.

“It’s hard to believe it’s already been a year since we launched the RapidRide F Line, which carries more riders every day,” Constantine said. “Frequent, efficient service here in Tukwila strengthens both our economy and our commitment to equity by serving communities that need transit the most.”

The Tukwila Urban Transit Center is mid-point on the east-west traveling F Line, which connects from the east, Boeing, The Landing, and Renton Transit Center with Link light rail and Metro buses at Tukwila International Boulevard Station and Sounder trains at Tukwila Sounder Station.

“This transit center is another critical piece of infrastructure to help Tukwila achieve its goal of turning the Southcenter Urban Center into a vibrant neighborhood.”

Tukwila Mayor Jim Haggerton addresses the crowd June 29 for the ribbon cutting of the new Urban Transit Center on Andover Park West in Southcenter. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter

“By everyone chipping in and working together, the Tukwila Urban Transit Center is going to be an awesome

place for people to catch buses and connect to trains, to jobs, and even to shopping at the mall,” said Upthegrove.

From the west, transit from the Burien Transit Center and SeaTac also connect in Tukwila.

June marks the first anniversary of the launch of RapidRide F Line, which now carries 5,600 riders daily – 47 percent more than the predecessor route 140.

With the Tukwila Transit Center complete, the city of Tukwila is served by three key transit hubs, including the Tukwila International Boulevard Station and Tukwila Sounder Station.

The transit center includes real-time arrival information signs, off-board ORCA payment, custom bus shelters that incorporate durable time-tested materials with a bright distinctive yellow flare, patterned concrete to connect the two bus bay zones along Andover Park West, rather than requiring riders to cross the street; more accessible; includes lighting and safety and security features used in transit facility designs, according to a King County news release.

Dean A. Radford can be reached at 425-255-3484, ext.

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The Tukwila Historical Society has completed renovations to the city’s museum and heritage center, opening a new era for exhibitions.

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Sounders 2 is Tukwila’s hometown professional sports team and promises exciting action and entertainment at Starfire Stadium.

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The100th

Foster High School’s Class of 2015 made history in June. It was Foster’s 100th graduating class.

tukwila reporter i19426 68th Avenue South i Kent, WA 98032 i253.872.6600 i www.tukwilareporter.com

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tukwila’sstory

Soccer fields once farmland

BY PAT BRODIN TUKWILA HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Mayor Jim Haggerton cuts the ‘ribbon’ June 29 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the

Tukwila Historical Society and to open the newly renovated restroom at the Tukwila Heritage and Cultural Center. The ribbon was a roll of toilet paper. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter

Museum marks new era

BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@ TUKWILAREPORTER.COM

The Tukwila Historical Society marked its 40th anniversary June 29 with a “ribbon” cutting and the official first flush of its new toilet at Tukwila’s museum.

An extensive renovation of the restroom by volunteers helped ensure the historic building met the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Used as a two-room school, City Hall and library, the building built in 1922 today is home to the society’s Tukwila Heritage and Cultural Center.

“Now we can open the facility to the public, with future rental possibilities and school field trips so we can share the local history of Tukwila and early King County,” said the society’s president, Louise JonesBrown. The historical society was founded on June 25, 1975, with the goal of preserving local history.

The anniversary celebration kicked off with a toilet-paper toss into a basketball hoop sitting on a toilet. City Council member De’Sean Quinn won the contest, giving him the right to flush the museum’s toilet officially for the first time.

“I feel like I am part of history

Tukwila City Council member Joe Duffie checks out the new restroom at the museum. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter

now,” he said.

Burien artist John Bourdage received a certificate of appreciation and a gift card for donating pen-and-ink drawings of Tukwila scenes that will become historic note cards used for fundraising.

Before everyone went inside, Mayor Jim Haggerton cut the ceremonial ribbon – a long strip of toilet paper decorated with the historical society’s emblem.

The museum’s treasurer, Pat Brodin, dressed as Tukwila’s first mayor, Joel Shomaker, to draw the connection to Tukwila’s current mayor.

The new restroom was a big hit, the product of hundreds of

hours of volunteer labor. Quinn flushed the toilet, then others gave it an inspection. “This is great. Hey, it works,” said council member Joe Duffie.

The celebration included a catered meal and a cake.

The historical society used proceeds from its fundraisers to buy materials for the renovation. The City of Tukwila, which owns the building at 14475 59th Ave. S., made contributions, including doing some electrical upgrades.

“This is really an exciting time for the society and I believe will bring new members and interest in our little museum,” said Jones-Brown.

The area of Tukwila called Fort Dent now covered in soccer fields once boasted a small farm on land originally claimed by the respected Louis V. Wyckoff. Arriving to the Duwamish Valley area in the fall of 1853, Wyckoff settled east across the River from other early settlers, Joseph Foster and William Gilliam. The claim also included a pond that froze over in the winter known as White Lake. Wyckoff was a blacksmith and opened a shop in downtown Seattle.

Louis Wyckoff stayed busy in those early years, maintaining the blacksmith shop and improving his claim. Wyckoff married Ursula McConaha in 1858. He readily became enmeshed in local community events and affairs and served on the King County grand and petit juries. He offered up his cabin as a polling place for the Mox La Push voting precinct. His blacksmith shop was used by Joseph Foster, a skilled tailor who was able to fashion the first official wedding suit for White River Valley settler John Thomas. Foster improvised a table of planks on sawhorses and heated the tailor’s iron on the forge.

In 1862, Wyckoff kept law and order as the new King County sheriff. He faithfully served the citizens of King County for next 19 years until his death on Jan. 20, 1882. His final days as a lawman and peace officer had the kind of drama that could have been depicted in an old western movie.

Louis V. Wyckoff was an Tensions unfolded late in the day on early farmer in Tukwila and Jan. 18 when a lynch mob executed the first sheriff of King County. three murderers by hanging using a Tukwila Historical Society timber stanchion in Henry Yesler’s maple trees. A vigilante group called the Committee of Safety had reluctantly surrendered two suspects in a fatal robbery attempt. The ultimatum to cease further exploits came from Wyckoff with revolver in hand to hold off the mob, and he presented the prisoners in court the next day. Instead of being tried, the vigilantes stormed the court dragging the doomed pair to up the alley to James Street for the execution. While the violence during that fateful day is commonly believed to be the contributing factor that led to Wyckoff ’s heart attack, he was remembered by his fellow citizens for his dutiful service to King County.

Pat Brodin is treasurer of the Tukwila Historical Society. The society operates the Tukwila Heritage and Cultural Center, 14475 59th Ave. S., Tukwila. The center can be reached by phone at 206-244-HIST or via email at tukwilaheritagectr@tukwilahistory.org.

Foster reunion is July 19 The annual Foster All Class Reunion and Picnic is noon to 5 p.m.

Sunday, July 19, at Royal Arch Park in Maple Valley.

This year alumni and friends are marking the centennial of Foster High’s first graduation.

The park is at 20821 Maple Valley Highway S.E. The cost is $10 per person and all graduates are welcome.

Additional information is available by contacting Gary and Joyce (Rinehardt) Johnson at gjdke@aol.com or Paula (Angle) Malo malodp50@gmail.com.

www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » JULY 2015

viewpoint editor dean radford editor@tukwilareporter.com

425.255.3484, ext. 5150 circulation jay krause 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: editor@ tukwilareporter.com FAX: 253.437.6016 MAIL: 19426 68th Ave. S., Ste. A, Kent, WA 98032 STORY IDEAS: dradford@ tukwilareporter.com ONLINE CALENDAR: tukwilareporter.com

No doubt, Fort Dent Park is tucked away, with broad green fields that make it easy to envision its past as early day farmlands in Tukwila.

Read about Fort Dent’s past in this month’s Tukwila’s Story on page 4.

Today, its present literally reveals itself as you drive across a bridge with a distinct rise over the Green River. There’s a hint of what’s beyond when you read that the Seattle Sounders are welcoming you.

Beyond is the Starfire Sports complex, where you can learn to play soccer and watch the pinnacle of the Seattle soccer community, the Seattle Sounders and the Sounders 2, the Sounder’s development team – and Tukwila’s hometown team.

What I like about Fort Dent and Starfire is that the largest soccer complex in the Northwest is the result of creative thinking by the City of Tukwila and the founders of Starfire.

Fort Dent Park landed in Tukwila’s hands when King County decades ago started to jettison parks and swimming pools it could no longer afford to operate and maintain.

Tukwila and Starfire worked together to reach a partnership that brought to the city a major Seattle sports team, a major soccer training program and a close-up view of aspiring professional players.

And let’s not forget to mention it’s a great venue for the community’s Fourth of July celebration.

I had a great time talking with an S2 player, the coach and members of the front office for this month’s cover story. The team from top to bottom has a real commitment to their sport and player development (obviously) but they’re also thinking about the fans’ experiences and what it can do for the Tukwila community.

To me that’s community involvement at its best.

Tukwila has another chance to grab a major sports facility, one that could hold a National Hockey League team. The promoters of the expansion team have filed their application for an arena that’s just starting to work its way through Tukwila’s permitting process.

Foster’s 100th graduation What a celebration last month for Foster High School’s Centennial graduation – and such a huge crowd.

I am always in awe at Foster’s commencement, seeing the faces of the families of grads who make up the city’s rich diversity. And, who can’t help but smile at the joyous expressions on the graduates’ faces as they walk into the stadium.

If you need a sign of success – not only of the students’ but also of the Tukwila School District’s – just think of the 190 or so students who worked hard, often under difficult family situations, to earn a high school diploma.

Congratulations to all of them.

Tukwila is growing up Drive by the corner of South 144th Street and Tukwila International Boulevard and you’ll see big piles of dirt. It’s hard to miss that Tukwila Village is becoming reality. And, soon, work will begin on the new King County Library branch for Tukwila.

And something else off the ground is the Washington Place tower in Southcenter. Talk about growing up; when done it’s going to soar 19 stories into the sky.

This one is going to be fun to watch, a tower like no other between Seattle and Tacoma.

Dean A. Radford can be reached at 425-255-3484, ext. 5150.

Chuck Parrish

publisher@tukwilareporter.com

Tukwila’s hometown team, S2, exciting, fun to watch

The future of Tukwila is looking good. Have you noticed that the Museum of Flight is building a new aviation pavilion on their west campus? More aviation enthusiasts will be visiting our community.

Further south, Tukwila Village is under construction on Tukwila International Boulevard and South 144th Street.

It will include housing, retail, offices and a new King County Library.

In the Tukwila Urban Center, the transit center along Andover Park West (near Firestone) is completed. Moving east toward the former Circuit City site, we have the proposed Washington Place apartment and hotel facility. The old building is gone.

Foundation work is under way, and building permits are being reviewed. This enterprise will be the tallest building in Tukwila. Farther east, a pedestrian/bicycle bridge will cross the Green River. Then, on the other side of West Valley Highway, we have the proposed Northwest Arena (event center). Just southeast of the proposed event center, we have the Tukwila Station serving bus, commuter rail and Amtrak. Do you see how these projects tie together?

These and other projects enhance the prospects of one another and suggest to other potential investors that Tukwila is the place to be.

COMMENTARY

publisher ellen morrison

Tukwila: We’re on the move

Dean A. Radford

regional publisher polly shepherd

tukwilacommentary

EDITOR’S NOTE

iwrite staff

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Tukwila Reporter columnist Chuck Parrish can be reached via email at chuckparrish2009@gmail.com

Dr. Coogan’s column Tukwila School Supt. Nancy Coogan is on family medical leave from the school district.

Her column will resume when she returns.

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Touch a Truck coming to Westfield July 25

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Tukwila’s Touch a Truck is on the move – to Westfield Southcenter.

The City of Tukwila and Westfield Southcenter will co-host the Fifth Annual Tukwila Touch-a-Truck Emergency Preparedness Fair 9 a.m.-1 p.m. July 25.

The free event brings together dozens of heavyduty rigs and equipment for kids to explore and al-

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lows families to learn more about the importance of emergency preparedness.

Due to space constraints at the Foster High School parking lot and the opportunity to bring Toucha-Truck to a broader audience, this year’s event will be held in Westfield Southcenter’s south parking lot.

The additional space will allow for more partners

and more vehicles to participate, including: • King County Library System – bookmobile • King County Metro – RapidRide bus • Seattle Humane Society – MaxMobile adoption bus • Tukwila Fire Department – fire engine and fire boat • Tukwila Police Department – mobile command

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www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » JULY 2015

Tukwila PD’s K9 Doc gets a ballistics vest The Tukwila Police Department’s K9 Doc has been awarded a ballistic vest, thanks to a nonprofit organization, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., and a fundraising effort by a youngster in University Place.

The boy, Jack Hassing, a student at University Place Primary School, provided $950 for K9 Doc’s vest. The vest will be embroidered with the sentiment, “Stay safe, with love from Jack & the Hassing Family.”

Doc and his handler, Tukwila Police Officer Mike Boehmer, are a generalist K-9 team with the Tukwila Police Department.

The two completed their 570-hour training course with Redmond and Bellevue police departments in July 2014. The team then joined the patrol division and is working with a night-shift squad.

Doc is a 2-year-old German Shepherd who was born in Hungary, then sent

the cabin, swimming and especially boat rides.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., of East Taunton, Mass., provides bullet and stab-protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the

United States.

Through private and corporate sponsorships, Vested Interest in K9s has provided more than 1,417 law-enforcement dogs in 49 states with protective vests, costing more than $1.3 million.

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Doc and his handler, Tukwila Police Officer Mike Boehmer, are a generalist K-9 team with the Tukwila Police Department.

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8 ‹ JULY 2015

www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » JULY 2015

« www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

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

TUKWILA CITY PAGES The city of opportunity

T he community of choice

Police take part in Special Olympics torch run On July 3, 2015 three members of the Tukwila Police Department participated in the Special Olympics Unified Relay as the organization prepares for the World Games in Los Angeles later this year. Running 3.25 miles through Tukwila with the lit torch, Commander Rick Mitchell, Officer Eric Kunsmann and Officer Marc Schutt appreciated the show of support encourage the officers and other runners. “It was a little warm, but it was fun. We had a good time,” commented Officer Schutt.

“See You in the Park” upcoming events!

Community play nights in Tukwila neighborhood parks Enjoy food, games and recreational opportunities Discuss the activities and amenities in your park with Tukwila Recreation staff Wednesday, July 22 Duwamish Park Wednesday, July 29 Tukwila Park Tuesday, August 4 Crestview Park Each event runs 5:30–7:00pm

ouncil c corner

by Kate Kruller, 2015 Council President

Although cities are constrained by the authority granted to them at the state level, along with many county, state and federal policies, guidelines, laws and regulations mandated to the municipal level, you can still recognize the classic “balance of power” framework in the three branches of government here in Tukwila.

The “Legislative Branch” is comprised of your elected City Council – responsible for setting all policy and budget allocations (the “what” of city government). The “Executive Branch” is your elected Mayor and “the Administration” (city staff and contracted specialists) – collectively responsible for executing City policy within the budget (the “how” of city government). The “Judicial Branch” is your Municipal Court (Tukwila’s judge is appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Council) – responsible for independently interpreting the law at the municipal level over matters arising from city ordinances that occur inside the boundaries of the city.

The process for setting policy, or authorizing budgets and expenditures, always remains under the overall auspices of the Council. Sometimes people don’t fully understand this concept, but I assure you the “tail does not wag the dog” in this particular aspect of government.

Admittedly, it can be difficult for the public to follow that continuity. There can be a number of staff, commission or council committee processes and meetings that a motion, resolution, or ordinance may pass through before reaching a vote or being enacted as law.

Each item being considered has a “sponsor,” which may be the entire council or individual councilmember, the Mayor, city staff - or any of these acting on behalf of residents or the business community asking for an issue or item to be addressed. All language proposed is vetted by the City Attorney’s Office and City Clerk to ensure that the ideas forwarded are legal and follow processes as established by law.

Many of the ideas addressed in local government move forward as a result of previous or long-standing policies at multiple levels of government, such as environmental regulations or comprehensive growth management. This is a highly collaborative process, with initial authorization by the Council, then ongoing implementation, monitoring and compliance by City staff. Updates are provided over time, allowing Councilmembers to see their policy decisions in action, as well as to keep Tukwila residents informed.

MAYOR: Jim Haggerton COUNCIL PRESIDENT: Kate Kruller

COUNCIL MEMBERS:

Tukwila tree tips for proper pruning

Over the past year and a half, Tukwila has engaged in a Facilities Needs Analysis and Feasibility Study to determine the City’s requirements for properties and buildings housing offices, shops and public safety functions, from current use to long-term needs. This study enables the City to develop a plan addressing these needs, much as it conducts planning efforts regularly for Tukwila’s growth, utilities, and infrastructure such as roads and bridges. The City has completed the first three phases of this four-part effort:

Is your tree growing over the sidewalk? Not sure about how to prune the tree you planted last fall? Does your neighbor’s tree look unstable? Is your tree dropping a lot of branches?

• Understanding the condition and suitability of current facilities, and • Determining the preferred approach for the City to tackle this issue.

The work on these previous considerations resulted in the recommendation of a preferred alternative to address Tukwila’s facilities needs. This includes a new Public Safety building that would house the Tukwila Police Department, Emergency Management and the Municipal Court. It was also determined that the City should develop a consolidated Public Works campus, retain and remodel the existing City Hall to expand functionality, and eventually dispose of the substandard 6300 building next door after using it as an interim City Hall during renovation of the other building.

The study is currently in the fourth phase, where the City is working to identify available funding and phasing options as it addresses its facilities demands for the next 25 years. Questions to be answered include timeline alternatives, preliminary project budgets, funding and financing options, and potential financial impacts to the City.

At its June 22, 2015 Committee of the Whole meeting, the City Council received a detailed update on the City’s facilities planning effort, and directed staff to move forward and complete Phase 4 in the next few months. Residents and other interested parties are encouraged to learn more about this issue by going to TukwilaWA.gov/FacilitiesStudy.html

Council Chat

Come talk to us!

Meeting Room 1 at Foster Library 4060 South 144th Street, Tukwila

10:00am to 12:00noon

Next Chat: August 8 Council Chat is a monthly chance to stop by and informally speak with one of your Tukwila City Councilmembers about anything on your mind regarding your community.

Volunteer opportunities available Volunteer Chore Services provides free, supportive, chore assistance to low-income elders and disabled adults in your community.

Through a network of caring volunteers like yourself, these individuals are able to remain living independently and safely in their homes.

Volunteers can choose to assist with light housecleaning, laundry, transportation, grocery shopping, meal preparation, yard care, minor home repairs and companionship. Opportunities during the day, evenings and weekends available! For additional information, visit the website at www.CCSWW.org/VCS, or call 206-328-5787.

Tukwila Office of Human Services – 206-433-7180 / 206-544-7181

Joe Duffie • Dennis Robertson • Allan Ekberg Verna Seal • Kathy Hougardy • De’Sean Quinn

National Night Out Against Crime is Tuesday, August 4 – a great summer evening for getting together with neighbors to “give crime a going-away party!” To hold an event, register by July 29 (call 206-431-2197), or make plans to attend one in your community!

City facilities study enters fourth phase

• Identifying the City’s facilities needs,

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These are some of the common concerns that many homeowners have regarding trees on their property and in their neighborhood. Business owners, whose properties often have trees planted as part of the required landscaping on the site, can also have questions about pruning and recognizing defects in trees. Here in the Puget Sound, trees are part of our heritage and should be valued for the many benefits they provide -- not the least of which is shade during these hot summer days. Properly cared-for trees provide energy savings, wildlife habitat, improved physical well-being, and increased property values. Research also shows that shoppers spend more money in retail areas where there are trees providing shade and a more welcoming shopping environment.

If you are unsure how to care for the trees on your property, the City of Tukwila is here to help. As part of a partnership with the Washington Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Forest Service, the City of Tukwila has produced two educational tree care videos: • Pruning Landscape and Ornamental Trees • Identifying Tree Defects These videos were developed for homeowners and City employees to teach basic pruning skills and provide help in identifying potential tree problems. They are available to watch anytime, showing ways to care for your landscape trees. You can find the links to the videos on the City of Tukwila website, TukwilaWA.gov.

These videos are intended to provide general guidance. If you have concerns about your trees, it’s a good idea to consult a trained specialist – an ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) Certified Arborist. For business owners, using an ISA Certified Arborist to make recommendations on your landscaping can lengthen the life of the investment you’ve made in your property, improve both the overall health of your trees and the look of your site, and keep potential customers in your retail area longer. Additional information and assistance in locating a Certified Arborist can be found at www.TreesAreGood.com.

New staff takes honors at Fire Academy On June 18, the Tukwila Fire Department’s four newest members graduated from the Fire Academy. Congratulations go to these graduates who included the Academy’s valedictorian, winner of the Fitness Award and Chief’s Company Award, and the Most Improved recruit. While these probationary firefighters come from varied backgrounds and experiences, all four are excited to begin their career in the fire service in Tukwila.

Andrew Quinn is originally from Garden City, Michigan.

He is married with a 2½ year-old son, and volunteers teaching golf at First Tee. He served in the U.S. Army deployed overseas, and later was a military contractor providing security work for U.S. diplomats abroad. After returning to civilian life, Quinn’s endeavors eventually led him to fire service. He sees similarities between the fire service and military service, and he is particularly pleased to be back in a culture so focused on camaraderie.

Eric Dunkley also served in the Army, deployed three times overseas in armor reconnaissance, and stationed his entire career at Fort Hood in Texas. Raised in Spokane, he is married with a one-year-old daughter. A positive experience with firefighters responding to his father’s medial emergency helped draw him to fire service. Probationary Firefighter Dunkley is a nationally ranked amateur triathlete who enjoys trapshooting as well.

Be a seller or a shopper at Tukwila’s 22nd annual Community Garage Sale Saturday & Sunday, August 22–23

SHOP! After August 18, you can find a map and list of sale locations on the City of Tukwila’s website at TukwilaWA.gov/YardSale.html. Ads with the list of sale locations will appear in the Tukwila Reporter and the Kent Reporter. You can also pick up a map and location list during business hours at: Hall (6200 Blvd) •• Tukwila TukwilaCity City Hall (6200Southcenter Southcenter Blvd) •• Community Development Dept.

(6200 Southcenter Blvd)Blvd) Community Development Dept. (6200 Southcenter •• Tukwila Community Center (12424 42nd Avenue South) Tukwila Community Center (12424 - 42nd Avenue South) • Tukwila Pool (4414 South 144th Street) •• Tukwila TukwilaHistorical Pool (4414 South 144th Street) Society (14475 59th Avenue South) •• Foster Tukwila Library.(14475 - 59th Avenue Library (4060 South 144th Street)South) On August 22 & 23, look for sales with bright yellow signs all around town marking Tukwila Community Garage Sale locations.

SELL!

Tukwila residents can still sign up (through July 30) to hold a sale at the same time as your neighbors! Your sale will get FREE publicity, and you’ll get a Yard Sale Kit with a small sign, tips for a great sale, and a list of reuse agencies that take donations. Declutter, earn money, and shrink the waste that ends up in the landfill. Register: Online: TukwilaWA.gov/yardsale.html Email:

Recycle@TukwilaWA.gov

Phone: 206-433-7178 Mail:

Recycling Program 6300 Southcenter Boulevard Tukwila, WA 98188

Mason Upton is from a firefighting family in Sumner – his father with the Valley Regional Fire Authority, and his uncle with the West Pierce Fire Department. However, Upton explored a variety of other career paths before joining the “family business,” receiving a degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, working as a personal trainer, and becoming a journeyman meat cutter. He finally pursued the fire service by going to EMT school which led him to the academy. He’s an admitted foodie who loves to cook and watch cooking shows.

Ben Rasmussen, from the Key Peninsula, worked in real estate, as a janitor and grocery clerk before going to EMT school. His exposure to firefighters while working at a hospital in Gig Harbor led him to become a volunteer firefighter at the Key Peninsula Department before making it a career. In his free time, Rasmussen plays drums in a band made up of doctors, nurses and emergency room techs, and coaches seventh grade football.

Provide your: • Name • Sale address, with zip code (& mailing address if different) • Phone number • Email address

Comprehensive Plan public hearing July and August offer chances to learn about final updates to these Comprehensive Plan topics: Tukwila International Boulevard District, Housing, Residential Neighborhoods, as well as the Introduction, Vision, Glossary and Land Use Map Legend. These events are opportunities to participate in creating a vision to guide Tukwila’s growth for the next 20 years.

City Council Public Hearing Monday August 10 at 7:00pm, in Council Chambers at Tukwila City Hall – 6200 Southcenter Blvd.

It’s your opportunity to comment on the proposed Comprehensive Plan updates.

Written comments are due by 5:00pm on August 10.

You can also listen and observe Council work sessions about the Comprehensive Plan update. These meetings take place at 7:00pm in Council Chambers.

City Council Work Session, July 27 – review of the Planning Commission recommendations.

City Council Public Comment Review, August 24 – to discuss public comment & make revisions as needed.

Review materials will be available prior to all meetings.

For more information, please contact Rebecca Fox at 206-431-3683, or CompPlanUpdate@TukwilaWA.gov.

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

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coverstory s2roster

Oalex Anderson

Giuliano Franco

Sam Garza

Aaron Long

Sounders FC 2 midfielder Pablo Rossi scores on a penalty kick during S2’s 2-1 victory over Portland Timbers 2 on April 9 in front of a big crowd at Starfire Stadium. At that point in the season, S2 was leading the conference with a 3-0 record. Photo by Charis Wilson Duncan McCormick

S2

Nick Miele

Tukwila watches as next Sounders stars emerge

BY DEAN A. RADFORD Sergio Mota

Pablo Rossi

DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM

L Amadou Sanyang

Tyler Miller

Ashani Fairclough

ON THE COVER Midfielder Victor Mansaray holds off a defender in S2’s March 21 4-2 victory over the Sacramento Republic FC. Photo

by Charis Wilson

ike so many soccer players poised for a professional career, Duncan McCormick’s memories are filled with the sport he loves – from a very early age.

“The biggest memory I have throughout my childhood is playing the game,” said the 19-year-old who graduated from Seattle Academy in Seattle. “The fact that I can pursue it beyond just my youth career is just a special thing.”

McCormick, a midfielder is one of 11 soccer players on the roster of Sounders 2, the Seattle Sounders development team, that trains and plays its home matches at Starfire in Tukwila.

This is the team’s inaugural season and it’s been a successful one, as measured by the standings in the Western Division of the professional United Soccer League. S2 has regularly sat at or near the top of the 12 teams in its division this season and a postseason run is likely.

But winning is only one of the team’s keys to success.

“Sure, it’s nice to see you’re in second or first place,” said Coach Ezra Hendrickson.

“But as long as we are developing and the players are getting better and improving, that is more of our concern because of the nature of the team.”

The purpose of S2 is to recruit and prepare top soccer players for a spot on Seattle

Midfielder Duncan McCormick, here in practice at Starfire, made his first career start in the April 9 match against the Portland Timbers 2. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter.

Sounders FC1 – the first team – or as professional sports go, on another Major League Soccer team.

“We think we have brought in a group of very talented young players,” said Hendrickson. “So we’re happy with how it’s been go-

ing so far.”

The proof the system works and that hard work pays off for players was the signing June 26 of S2 forward Andy Craven to a first-team contract. He was S2’s leading scorer.

Sounders 2 players are professional athletes; they’re paid and the job is full-time.

As professional athletes, they’re developing relationships with fans who line up for autographs after a match or when walking around the Starfire campus and when they go into schools in South King County to talk and teach soccer.

S2 general manager Andrew Opatkiewicz is working with small businesses in Tukwila and beyond to form partnerships with S2.

Tukwila and the area around it is “tremendously diverse” and there are a “ton of people” who love soccer, he said.

“We can bring professional soccer to that community,” he said, in an environment that’s “special and fun.”

The Tukwila community is embracing the team, with loud crowds at home games at the 3,200-seat Starfire Stadium. If you become a member of the Sounders Community Trust, you can own a piece of the team with others in the trust and have a say in league operations.

“S2, Tukwila’s hometown team, is a great addition to the community,” said Mayor Jim Haggerton, calling S2 a “great partner” with the city. [ more S2 page 11 ]

www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » JULY 2015

i 11

Starfire puts up own big numbers, programs

BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER. COM

S2 midfielder Aaron Long, at right, challenges players during practice recently at Starfire in Tukwila. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter.

[ S2 from page 10]

Man hurt in shooting A man was struck at least twice by gunfire Thursday evening in Southcenter during an altercation with another man, according to the Tukwila Police Department.

The man, whose name wasn’t released, was taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.

Witnesses reported hearing gunfire at about 5:50 p.m. in the 100 block of Andover Park West.

S2’s captain is midfielder Amadou Sanyang, who has played internationally and professionally, signed with S2 in February. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter

that to develop players, they needed to affiliate with a USL team or form their own developmental team.

The Sounders chose to form Sounders 2, the second team. There are now three tiers to the Sounders’ organization FC1, FC2 and the Sounders Academy, which produces homegrown players competitive at all levels of the sport.

Duncan McCormick, a former Sounders Academy player, and team captain Amadou Sanyang were the first two S2

Head coach Ezra Hendrickson leads S2 through practice; behind him is S2 forward Oalex Anderson.

Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter

TICKETS Sounders 2 offers single tickets and packages for its matches and through the Sounders Community Trust. Learn more online at www.soundersfc.com/s2/tickets

[ more STARFIRE page 12 ]

[ more S2 page 12 ]

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“They are soaking up everything we are trying to teach them..”

Forward Sam Garza, a standout college soccer player who has played professionally, signed with S2 in March. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter

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“Not only do they bring more than 1,000 people to Tukwila for each match – many of whom stop at nearby restaurants on their way – but they are just really fun to watch,” he said.

Besides developing soccer plays, the Sounders are also developing a fan base for S2 and building a community with those fans.

“When they come here, they are going to see an entertaining brand of soccer,” said Hendr ickson, and the fans will see “a s p i r i n g professionals” working hard.

H e n drickson Coach Ezra Hendrickson d e s c r i b e s his players, who are mostly 23 or younger, as “sponges.”

“They are soaking up everything that we are trying to teach them,” he said.

“And they are going out and executing our game plans on game day.”

But, more so, in practice they are putting in the effort, he said, which makes them better prepared for game day, physically and mentally.

Last year, Major League Soccer told its first teams, such as the Seattle Sounders,

The Seattle Sounders and Sounders 2 practice at what is arguably the biggest soccer complex in the Pacific Northwest – Starfire Sports in Tukwila.

Starfire Sports exists because of a public-private partnership between the City of Tukwila, which owns Fort Dent Park, and Starfire, which in March 2003 launched its operations and began a massive construction and renovations on the 54-acre site along the Green River.

Today, there are 12 outdoor fields, including two Ben Oliver, where the Seattle general manager Sounders practice, a small training field, two indoor fields and a 3,200- seat stadium.

Starfire, which leases the land from the city, maintains all the athletic facilities at the park, while the city maintains the public areas, such as the parking lot, pond and children’s play area.

The Seattle Sounders first used Starfire for practice and games when they were a United Soccer League team. Today, the team practices on two fields, one grass and one with artificial turf which mirrors the field at Century Link Field, where they play their matches.

The Sounders occasionally schedule FC1 games at Starfire.

Ben Oliver, Starfire’s general manager, said the Sounders are a “great partner. They help us. And we like to

12 h JULY 2015 «

www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com

Pool governance goes to vote

BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM

Voters in Tukwila will decide on Nov. 3 whether to change the way the Tukwila Pool is governed.

Right now, members of the Tukwila City Council also act as Tukwila Pool Metropolitan Park District commissioners.

However, the commission on June 25 unanimously adopted Resolution 2015-8, calling for creation of a governing body consisting of five independently elected district commissioners.

City Council members would no

longer serve as commissioners.

The park district officially took over operations of the pool on Jan. 1, which were done previously under a contract with the City of Tukwila.

Earlier the city has transferred pool ownership to the district, which voters created in August 2011.

The pool was built in the 1970s as part of King County’s Forward Thrust program.

The district is accepting the names of individuals who would participate in writing the pro and con statements for the November general election’s voter pamphlet.

Those interested in participating in the process should contact

Commissioner Verna Seal at vseal@ tukwilapool.org or 206-293-3274 by July 17. Statements must be completed and submitted to the King County Elections Division by Aug. 13.

District commissioners are responsible for the policies and financial health of the park district.

The district’s current tax rate is approximately $.15 per $1,000 assessed valuation.

Commissioners meet monthly at the Val View Sewer District conference room, 3460 S. 148th St., a block west of Tukwila International Boulevard.

Foster graduate dies in crash Christian Sanchez killed in Federal Way in motorcycle crash

[ STARFIRE from page 11] think we help them, too.”

It’s obvious at Starfire when the Sounders practice, which are often open to the public. Fans can also watch the Sounders 2 team practice, too “Those players are walking through the crowds, stopping to take selfies or sign an autograph. It’s really great,” Oliver said. And, in turn, the public is respectful of the players, he said.

Starfire isn’t planning any major projects to accommodate soccer, other than construction of a new building to support the stadium, with the support of the Sounders and the Sounders Community Trust, according to Oliver.

The new building would include such amenities as locker rooms.

The Sounders 2 development team, which practices and plays at Starfire, provides exposure for Starfire and “allows the local community for greater access to the players, especially with the number of kids we have coming through here,” Oliver said. And fans don’t have to drive to downtown Seattle to see a professional soccer match, he said.

Starfire puts up its own big numbers; the complex has about one million visits every year, Oliver said.

Starfire, with 53 employees, offers youth and adult soccer programs, and companies, including Boeing, use its indoor facilities. There are restaurants and training and physical therapy facilities.

Starfire hosts a number of tournaments every year and raises funds for community organizations. One is the Xtreme Cup in August, when Starfire and the tournament teams will raise money for a cancer camp offered by the American Cancer Society.

Learn more about Starfire online at www.starfiresports. com.

BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.

[ S2 from page 11]

COM

Friends and family of Foster High graduate Christian Sanchez, who was killed in the crash of his motorcycle June 29, remember him as generous and full of life and joy.

He was killed when the motorcycle he was riding crashed on Milton Road South in front of the Wild Waves entrance in Federal Way. Witnesses estimated he was driving between 80 and 100 mph, according to the Federal Way Police Department.

After Sanchez’s death, friends and family took to social media and in interviews to grieve and remember him.

Foster track and field coach Louis d’Andrea called Sanchez’s death “a Christian horrible loss to us Sanchez all.”

“Christian will always be remembered as a likeable soul with a heart of gold,” said D’Andrea. “Always quick to smile, Christian had a gift to turn any situation into a positive moment.”

D’Andrea said as a teacher and coach, he tries to make a difference in the lives of his students. “With Christian, the roles were reversed; he was the one who made a big ‘difference’ in my life.”

Sanchez competed in the pole vault, long jump and javelin.

“His most successful event was by far the javelin, where he placed 16th in state his senior year. And this was

A memorial for Christian Sanchez, a 2013 graduate of Foster High School, grew at The Rock on the Foster campus. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter

only after one season throwing the javelin,” D’Andrea said.

Sanchez is also on the Top 10 best list at Foster in all three events.

“I always loved it when Chris Sanchez came into the room,” said Michael Shannon, one of Sanchez’s former teachers at Foster. “He lit up the place with his humor and love for others. The Bulldog family lost one of a kind. RIP Chris.”

Family member Stephen Tyler recalled how Sanchez made him feel special on Father’s Day. “Chris took me to see Jurassic World 3D, then we pigged out at Blue Island Sushi and finished the night with fro-yo,” Tyler said. “Not once did he let me pay for anything.

Before he left, I insisted on a photo with him and his new bike. As he was driving out of the driveway, he said I love you Steve. Best day of my life!”

Friends described Sanchez as generous, knowledgable, proud, loud, awesome, funny, positive, and full of life and joy.

Friend Molly Fontejon said she went to high school with Sanchez and she never saw “a frown or any

negative look on his face.”

“He constantly cracked jokes with his best friend Eli,” Fontejon wrote in an email. “Where you saw Chris, you saw Eli, where you saw Eli, you saw Chris.”

According to the Federal Way Police Department, Sanchez lost control of his motorcycle as he was driving down the road.

Federal Way Police Department spokeswoman Cathy Schrock said it is unknown why Sanchez was traveling at a high rate of speed.

His seventh-grade teacher, Erid Herda, said Sanchez kept up with her over the years; he gave her a graduation announcement two years ago.

“He was the kind of student who made his friends laugh and drove his teachers crazy,” she said. “When Christian started high school he turned a corner, joined the track team and became a role model. He was someone I hoped to run into throughout the years to hear of his successes.”

Federal Way Mirror reporter Raechel Dawson contributed to this report. Dean A. Radford can be reached at 425-255-3484, ext. 5150.

players, signing contracts in February. Other signings quickly followed; just last week S2 signed goalkeeper Tyler Miller, who was available to play Sunday against Arizona United at Starfire.

Going into Sunday’s home game, S2 was 9-6-2. The team had lost only one game at Starfire.

S2 gives the players competitive playing minutes, close to home and in front of a large crowd – and where they’re very visible to first-team coaches. And they have a chance to play competitive minutes with the first team.

The choice, said Opatkiewicz, was “obvious.”

Sounder Academy players get playing time, too, with S2 and first-team players are “loaned down.”

Duncan McCormick is a product of the Seattle soccer community and the Sounders’ player development program in the Seattle Sounders FC Academy. He couldn’t play soccer for his high school, Seattle Academy, because of the risk of injury, but in doing so, he said, he missed out on high school sports, a bit part of the community’s culture.

“It’s a sacrifice that I made and a lot of kids make it now,” he said.

After graduation, he committed to play soccer for Wake Forest University but he signed a contract with S2 instead.

“I want to stick around here and play and pursue this career and following whatever happens with the Sounders or wherever I may go, for sure, college is definitely in the back of my head and something I want to get in the future,” he said.

McCormick’s father Richard played for the Sounders in the 1990s, was a Sounders coach and today coaches the under-18 team for the Sounders Academy.

Duncan McCormick says he could go on for two hours about his dreams.

“But right now my major goal is to make the first team.

Make that step, much like Andy Craven just has. And get that MLS contract. And from there the sky’s really the limit,” he said.

Dean A. Radford can be reached at 425-255-3484, ext.

5150.

www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » JULY 2015

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fosterclass of 2015

Celebrating 100 years Foster graduates largest class ever

BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM

Commencement for Foster High School’s largest graduating class ever June 12 fittingly brought to an end the school’s Centennial year that celebrated the awarding of Foster’s first and only diploma, in 1915.

This year 188 seniors took the happy walk at Werner Neudorf Stadium to get their diplomas, out of a class of 196 students eligible to graduate.

Principal Pat Larson, a 1970 graduate of Foster, welcomed the graduates and their families and friends. She thanked their parents for trusting Foster’s staff with their children.

“It’s been a pleasure to see them grow into fine young men and women that you see before you,” she Go to tukwilareporter. said. “It’s com to see photos of a pleasure the graduation. seeing their dreams become a reality.”

Members of the senior class have received $2.5 million in scholarships for their post-secondary education.

On their long walk to the stadium, the seniors passed The Rock, painted purple, in front of the school. They stopped briefly, touched it, took a moment for reflection and had an iconi Then, the fun began, as the seniors paraded to their seats, teachers on either side congratulating them, the crowd cheering them loudly. The brightly colored backdrop to the stage, with a massive Bulldog, read: “We Make H15Tory FHS 100th Graduating Class.”

Each senior received a memorial patch, marking them as a member of that one and only Centennial class.

Special awards were presented, and the evening concluded with the awarding of diplomas and a fireworks show to celebrate the Centennial.

The male athlete of the year is Patrick Sa’au, who plays multiple sports, and the

female athlete of the year is discus thrower Ama Monkah.

Bisirat Gebar received the $1,000 Foster Faculty Scholarship, which goes to the senior has made a great effort turn his or her life around in a more positive direction.

Richard Sherman, the Seahawks’ great cornerback, helped show him that direction in a visit to Foster in October 2013.

Cierra Ghafari and Daynon Jackson received the Dr. Momber Leadership Award, named for Horst Momber, who was the founding principal for the “new” Foster High School. He handed the awards to the seniors.

Larson listed the accomplishments of the senior class, besides the $2.5 million in total scholarships.

• Four ACT Six scholars, who received full or partial scholarships. Last year, there were two.

• 14 Washington State Opportunity Scholarship recipients, who will receive $15,000 over four years. Last year, there were three.

• 88 students eligible for College Bound scholarships. Last year, there were 31. Students sign up for the College Bound program in the seventh and eighth grades and become eligible for scholarships as seniors if they meet certain requirements.

• 48 students earned the highest score on the World Language Assessment, demonstrating their proficiency in languages other than English, many of them their home language.

Together, students in Foster’s AVID program, whose mission is to close the achievement gap by preparing all students for college success, earned $1 million in scholarships.

This was also the last year that Cynthia Chesak will direct graduation. She is retiring after 34 years as a teacher at Foster.

Class valedictorian Nandina Cergic was one of four students who gave speeches, saying the oft-mentioned statistic that Foster is the most diverse high school in the nation doesn’t do students or Foster justice.

“We have managed to form a new family over the course of four years,” she said. “In essence we have become a Foster family.”

Alajawan Brown’s brother, Louis Jr., left, his father Louis and sister Jasmine received his honorary diploma at Foster High School’s Centennial graduation on June 12. Sara Niegowski, Tukwila School District

Alajawan’s family receives his diploma

BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTE.COM

This is the year that Alajawan Brown would have reached a teenager’s milestone – receiving his high school diploma – in front of adoring family and friends.

Instead, his father Louis walked slowly across the Foster High School football field June 12 toward Mark Wahlstrom, president of the Tukwila School Board, who held an honorary diploma and a purple cap.

Alajawan’s brother Louis Jr. walked beside him, his arm around their father’s shoulder.

Alajawan’s sister Jasmine, a member of Foster’s Centennial Class of 2015, waited for them.

Alajawan “I am proud to presBrown ent Mr. Louis Brown an honorary diploma for Alajawan from Foster High School. I know that Alajawan would have been a proud Bulldog,” said Foster Principal Pat Larson, as the graduates and those in the stadium rose in applause at Foster’s Centennial graduation.

Just moments earlier Larson explained why Alajawan wasn’t there, a member of the Class of 2015, perhaps even Foster’s.

“His life was cut short when he was killed in a random act of violence,” she said.

And, then, assistant Principal Laurie Clark asked the graduates to take hold of their tassles and move them from right to left “and keep Foster in your heart forever.”

Louis Brown moved his tassle to the side.

He didn’t know that his wife Ayanna had arranged for the honorary diploma. “I felt it would be good to aid in our healing process,” she said.

Alajawan’s mother knew that his graduation would be a major event in his life that they would miss.

“I didn’t want this to be something else that Curtis was successful in taking away from us,” said Ayanna of Curtis John Walker, who in March 2012 was sentenced to 50 years in prison for murdering Alajawan on April 29, 2010. Alajawan’s 18th birthday is in July.

Alajawan was about a month away from his 13th birthday when he was shot in the back and killed by Walker in the parking lot of the 7-11 store on Martin Luther King Jr. Way on Renton’s West Hill. He was walking home from the bus stop after buying football cleats at Walmart in downtown Renton.

Walker of Kent was involved in a violent dispute nearby between two gangs.

Walker thought the 12-year-old Alajawan was a rival gang member. The Sheriff Office’s Skyway storefront precinct is named in Alajawan’s honor.

Ayanna Brown is an employee of the Tukwila School District, which allows employees who live outside the district to enroll their children in Tukwila’s schools.

She had “shared her heart” with Larson about why she wanted Louis to receive the honorary diploma. She wanted him to “have that moment.”

Dean A. Radford can be reached at 425255-3484, ext. 5150.

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i 15

school connection Tukwila School District #406

JULY 2015

2015-16 School Calendar Now Available We need your feedback: Changing from late-start “SMART” Wednesdays to Early Release Wednesdays It may be summer, but it’s never too early to start thinking about the start of school (is that the sound of kids booing all over the district?)! The complete 2015-16 school year calendar is now available online (www. tukwila.wednet.edu) or for pick-up at the Administration Building, 4640 S. 144th St. There is one significant change next school year, and we want families to provide feedback and start planning ahead now.

For many years, the Tukwila School District has shortened the school day for students on the majority of Wednesdays throughout the school year to provide training and collaboration time for teachers.

Since they began, these “Smart Wednesdays” have been a latestart schedule for students, with each school beginning 1.5 hours later than usual.

Beginning in 2015-16, Smart Wednesdays will instead become Early Release Wednesdays for all schools. On these days, schools will release at their typical early-release times (11:30 a.m. for high school and middle school, 12:45 p.m. for elementary schools) and students will receive lunch before coming home.

We have heard from families that this will be helpful for

several reasons. First, there will be consistency: Schools will begin at the same time every day, which will stop the confusion about when to show up on Wednesdays from week to week. Secondly, older students will get out of school before younger siblings and will be available to watch them; currently, older students are often tardy on late-start Wednesdays if they are responsible for younger siblings. Finally, the number of Smart Wednesdays throughout the school year will be cut in half, going from about 25 to 13; that means the majority of Wednesdays will be normal, undisrupted school days for students and parents.

The most important reason to switch to Early Release Wednesdays is because it will benefit students’ learning.

The district’s strategic plan calls for every student to make significant academic growth from year to year. To make that happen, all of our teachers need to have rigorous training so they can do their best. Compared to the current late-start Wednesday schedule, the early-release Wednesday schedule doubles the amount of time teachers will be able to spend training in one session.

This is very important because the training will be much higher

quality. For example, we plan to have a literacy expert run a full workshop with model lessons during an Early Release Wednesday—something that is not possible with the time constraints of the current latestart Wednesday schedule. Our principals, instruction experts, and teacher leaders agree that next year’s training is going to be more effective—with the result being a higher level of learning for your student.

While the switch to Early Release Wednesdays has many benefits, we realize that any change in the school day may create challenges for families.

Superintendent Nancy Coogan is now focused on collecting as much feedback as possible so that she can work on solutions and partnerships, including childcare options. (The Tukwila Pool, for instance, will offer $2 swim lessons for all students from 1-3 p.m. on early release days.) Based on your feedback, Dr. Coogan will provide a report back to the community in August.

Please join the conversation and provide your input by: • Taking an online survey, accessible at the district’s homepage, www.tukwila. wednet.edu.

• Calling the superintendent’s office at 206-901-8006.

Foster High grads lead state in Seal of Biliteracy For the first time this year, Washington state began awarding the Seal of Biliteracy to high school graduates who have demonstrated proficiency in both English and another world language. In Foster High’s graduating class, 48 students earned this distinction—that’s about a quarter (25 percent) of the Class of 2015! In comparison, about 8 percent of Seattle graduates and about 16 percent of Highline graduates earned this seal.

Congratulations to the Foster High students who earned this distinction, and to the staff of the Tukwila School District who made it happen administratively!

The Seal of Biliteracy is nationally recognized

as official certification that a student has studied and obtained proficiency—reading, speaking, and writing—in two or more languages by high school graduation. The seal is placed on a student’s diploma and high-school transcript.

According to the state’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, more than 40 percent of jobs in Washington state are tied to international trade, so it is critical for students to develop proficiency in English and other languages to maintain competitiveness. In addition to career advantages, studies also show numerous cognitive benefits for students learning more than one language, including enhanced working memory, attention, flexibility, and creative thinking.

Students across all grade levels are getting an educational boost and earning course credits in the Tukwila School District’s summer-school program.

Elementary students even received a backpack of their own books—thanks in part to everyone who contributed to the City’s Equity and Diversity book drive—to help them with their ongoing homework assignment: to read, read, read.

NEW TO THE DISTRICT? New-student registration—for students who need to enroll in any Tukwila school for the fall—is Aug. 18 and 19 at Showalter Middle School, 4628 S. 144th St. For each student, parents/ guardians should bring proof of residency in the district (utility bill, mortgage or rent statement), verification of date of birth (birth certificate or ID card), and a certificate of immunization status.

FREE SUMMER MEALS FOR CHILDREN Free meals do not stop just because school is out! Many community organizations offer free breakfast and lunch to children throughout summer, including our Tukwila School District summer school program (children do not need to be enrolled to receive meals). Call 1-800322-2588 for locations or find a map on the district’s homepage, www.tukwila.wednet.edu.

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