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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-07 Hazelnut Newsletter - Volume 29 No. 3At the June 23 City Council meet- ing, Mayor Jim Haggerton read a spe- cial proclamation commemorating the City's centennial celebration. The Tukwila Historical Society gave a presentation about special people, 4 Pi Lit i HE HAZELNUT ty of Tukwila publication for our residential and business communities VOLUME 29, NUMBER 3 JULY 2008 June We're proud.to centennialtcommunity! On Monday, June 23, a time cap- sule — buried with the cornerstone of City Hall in 1978 — was unearthed forTukwila's centennial. Many community members and City staff were on hand as the galvanized container was opened and its contents revealed. "15 p Tukwila City Council Actions: March thru May, 2008 March 2008 Appointed Christy O'Flaherty to the position of City Clerk. Authorized creation of Department of Information Technology. Appointed Mary Miotke to position of Director of Information Technology. Awarded contract to Coban Research and Technologies, Inc., for purchase and installation of digital in -car video for police patrol vehicles. Awarded contract to Freedman Tung & Bottomley for services to complete the Tukwila Urban Center Plan. Authorized airspace lease with Muse- um of Flight Foundation for pedestrian bridge over East Marginal Way South. Authorized interlocal agreement with City of Renton for Strander Boulevard Extension Project. Approved ordinance adopting mod- ifications to Zoning and Subdivision Codes to allow for zero -lot line/fee simple townhouses on individual lots. Authorized acquisition of technology devices for use by Council. Authorized purchase of two additional defibrillator units for Fire Department. April 2008 Appointed Leonard Luna and Brenna Arnesen to Equity & Diversity Com- mission. Appointed Jeffrey Baker to Communi- ty Oriented Policing Citizens Advisory Board. Reappointed Joanne McManus to Parks Commission. Authorized contract with Community Schools Collaboration, in support of programs at Tukwila schools. Authorized contract amendment with Commercial Development Solutions for continued support with issues involving Tukwila Valley South. Approved ordinance providing for acquisition of land for constructing Tukwila 205 Levee Repair projects. For up-to-date information about Council meetings/agendas/activities, visit our website: http://www.eLtukwila.wa.us Council Coffee Chat &iturdny Mornings — 9:00 to 11:00Am Council Coffee Chat is an opportunity for you to stop by and informally talk with a Tukwila City Council member about anything on your mind regarding Tukwila. Please join us at various locations throughout the City. For additional information, please contact Legislative Analyst Kimberly Matej at 206-433-1834. May 2008 Authorized ordinance adopting Com- mute Trip Reduction Plan. Approved contract with City of Seattle for Hearing Examiner services. Approved contract with Prothman Company for services of Interim Fi- nance Director. Approved ordinance renewing six- month moratorium on filing of sign, development, and electrical permits for installation and operation of electronic, animated, and holographic signs with- in the City. Approved agreement with Comcast for use of City -owned conduit which will include additional and enhanced ser- vices from Comcast to City. Approved agreement with KPG, Inc., for 2008 Annual Small Drainage Pro- gram. Authorized issue of Request for Propos- als (RFP) for development of Tukwila Village site. Authorized Cooperative Agreement with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, based on fulfillment of conditions by LaPianta, regarding Site 5 of Tukwila Levee Repair. toffee Chat schedule Dates: July 12 Location: Tukwila Trading Company 3725 South 144th 8treet July 19, July 26 August 2, August 9 foster Golf Links Clubhouse 13500 Interurban Avenue 8. Date8: Location: 2 THE HAZELNUT Mayor's Message: Thanking those who give their time and effort I will always appreciate the benefits the City receives from its volunteers, and would like to point out a few ex- amples and give credit where credit is due. The Highway 99 Action Committee has been active for many years in all areas concerning Tukwila International Boulevard, including litter control and trash collection. On May 28, the Doubletree Suites Ho- tel in Tukwila hosted an essay contest for fifth graders at Tukwila Elementary School. Students wrote of `trees', and the top six finalists read their essays from a podium. Everyone participating was a winner with very good stories and excellent presentations, and the top two finalists advancing to addition- al competition. A big Thank You goes to the Doubletree for this effort. During the weekend of June 7-8, the Church of Tukwila and eight other lo - ■II COUNCIL CORNER cal churches organized approximately 150 volunteers to make improvements to eleven private property projects as well as four City property projects. City staff participated along with the volun- teers to remove debris, overgrowth, lit- ter and graffiti. Credit goes to Farwest Paint of Tukwila for donating the paint for the graffiti cleanup. On Saturday, June 7, the Barnes and Noble Bookstore in Tukwila hosted a children's art show for grades kinder- garten through 5, and the students won signed certificates and awards. (Actually all the student offerings were winners, with some very creative and well-designed art projects.) On Monday, June 9, second graders re- ceived a tour of the Police and Court facilities at City Hall, then enjoyed lunch in the Police Training Room. Thanks to Officer Ted Rutt, Judge Kimberly Walden and others for this effort. The students seemed to enjoy the question -and -answer period during lunch. This is only a sampling of the many vol- unteer programs we enjoy. Whether these activities revolve around com- munity benefit, fun or education, the volunteers, citizens, teachers, students and businesses of Tukwila deserve our compliments for making our city a great place t ve and yvprk. - Mayor Jim Haggerton Working together is the heart of a community by Joe Duffle, Council President The year is flying by; it's hard to believe that I've already served six months of my year as Council President. It's been a great year so far, and I'd like to thank the City Council for a job well done. Working together, we experience noth- ing but success, since together we stand, divided we fall. As far as working together to do great things, I'd like to thank the Tukwila community for participating in the Tukwila Village discussions that have been a part of recent Council agendas. Your involvement and interest in this endeavor has shown us what we can accomplish as a team. Together we stand, divided we fall. Teamwork is essential to the success of our City, especially with our school district. I want to congratulate Ms. Ethelda Burke who begins her appointment as Superintendent of the Tukwila School District effective July 1, 2008. We are happy to have you, and I'm confident that you will make a differ- ence. Together we will work for the betterment of our chil- dren. Again, congratulations! I believe that the success of the joint School Board/City Council meeting on May 22 was just a glimpse of good things of come. Thank you to all the community members who were able to attend that meeting. Remember, together we stand, divided we fall. On Saturday, May 10 at Starbucks on Interurban, I hosted the first of a three-month Council Coffee Chat series. What a great opportunity this has been for the Council to actively meet with the community. Thank you to each person who has taken time out of their busy weekend to stop by! And thank you to the host sites that have allowed us to hold Council Coffee Chat at their locations! As we continue to celebrate 100 years of Tukwila Life, let us remember... Together We Stand, Divided We Fall. JULY 2008 3 Tukwila Days Festival 2008 Saturday, August 16 Schedule of Events Bring your friends and family to join the fun at this year's Tukwila Days Festival. Music, special kid's activities, art,U vendor booths, food and more await you at the Tukwila Community Center. Admission and most activities are FREE! Pancake Breakfast — 8:00 to 10: OOAm Support Tukwila's Sister Cities Committee by purchasing your morning meal in the TCC Social Hall. Tukwila Days Parade — 9:00 to 10:OOAm This year's bigger -and -better parade is open to all ages, with a new parade route and a centennial theme of "Celebrating 100 Years". For information and a parade entry form, please contact Tracy at 206-768-2822. Vendor Fair — 9:OOAM to 3:OOPm Featuring arts & crafts, community groups, City departments, commercial vendors, and a variety of food booths. For a ven- dor space application, please call the Community Center at 206-768-2822 or go online at www.ci.tukwila.wa.us. Art Show — 9:OOAm to 3:OOPm Come view this year's art show entries, on display in the TCC Banquet Room. New this year: a "Centennial" catego- ry. This is a great opportunity to see some local artists' work, or possibly make a purchase directly from the artist. Vintage Car Show — 9: OOAm to 3: OOPm Now part of the Tukwila Days lineup! Show off your restored classic car, truck, muscle car, or souped -up import... or stop by and vote for your favorite! Pre -registration required; please call 206-768-2822 or go online at www ci.tukwila. wa.us. The Fun Zone - 9:OOAm to 3:OOPm Kids and families won't want to miss the action here! Attrac- tions include inflatable bouncers, a giant slide, dunk tank,61 face painters, roving clowns, panning for gold, and — new this year —a petting zoo! Chalk It Up! — 11:OOAm to 2:OOPm Attention, young artists! Come and create a masterpiece on the sidewalks of the Tukwila Community Center at our an- nual Chalk Art Contest. Stop by the Chalk It Up booth to pick up chalk for creating your art! Family Fun Challenge — 12:00 to 3:OOPm This year's third annual event will feature an inflatable ob- stacle course where you can challenge other families. Don't miss out on all the other fun family activities. A prize will be Special Olympics Bowl-A-Thon Friday, August 15 — Sunday, August 17 Have you ever seen a police officer bowl for 51 straight hours? Well, here's your chance. Officer Ted Rutt from the Tukwila Police Department will be bowling for Special Olympics of Washington starting at 10:OOAM Friday, August 15 and going non-stop until Sunday, August 17 at 1:OOPM. This will all take place at ACME Bowl in Tukwila located at 100 Andover Park West. Drop by ACME Bowl any time throughout the weekend. Or, plan to show up on Sunday, August 17, because from 10:OOAM to 1:OOPM, the New B97.3 will be hosting a Bowl- A-Thon just for you. Bring your family and friends along to bowl for three hours to help raise money for our Special Athletes, and to see if Officer Rutt is still standing. "Fast Lane" Phillips from the B97.3 morning show will be there to challenge anyone to a frame or two. Also, if you wear your Tukwila Life T-shirt to ACME Bowl on Saturday, August 16 between 11:OOAM and 7:OOPM, you'll get a free game of bowling for every paid game that you bowl, up to three games per person. Lots of great prizes will be given away, so don't miss out on the only place to be! For information about this awesome event, you can con- tact Officer Rutt at 206-391-8121, or send him an email at trutt@ci.tukwila.wa.us. Tukwila Life T-shirts are available at the Tukwila Community Center, 12424 - 42nd Avenue S. For more T-shirt information, please call 206-768-2822. Historic Home and Building Tour Saturday, August 23 — 10:00Am to 4:OOPM The Tukwila Historical Society presents a Historic Homes and Buildings Tour as part of Tukwila's Centennial celebra- tion. A booklet with maps and a brief summary of each location will be included as part of the tour. The owner has the option of offering a tour of just the outside, or the inside and outside of the house or building. Guided Tour Cost: Self -Guided Tour Cost: $12/adults (age 18+) $5 per person - all ages $10/seniors (age 65+) $7/children (age 17 & under) Maximum cost per family: $25 For ticket information, please contact Kathy Hougardy at 206-244-5023, or Joan Hernandez at 206-248-0260 4 THE HAZELNUT Get ready for the transition to Digital TV At midnight on February 17, 2009, all full -power television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting on analog airwaves and begin digital signal broadcasting only. Digital television (DTV) broadcasting is an advanced broad- casting technology, enabling broadcasters to provide a clear- er picture (free from analog "ghosts" or "snow") and better sound quality, plus a variety of programming options. DTV will also free up parts of the valuable broadcast spectrum for public safety communications and advanced consumer wireless services. If you have one or more televisions that receive free over - the -air television programming (with a roof -top antenna or "rabbit ears" on the TV), the type of TV you own is very important. If you have an analog television, you will need a digital -to -analog converter box to continue to watch free broadcast television on that set after February 17, 2009. Analog sets connected to such converter boxes will display digital broadcasts (not necessarily with full digital quality). If you own a TV with a digital tuner or subscribe to a cable, satellite or other pay TV service, you should continue to re- ceive free over -the -air TV programming as usual after the transition. Contact your service provider to see if any equip- ment upgrade will be necessary. Analog -only TVs should also continue to work as before with video gaming consoles, VCRs, DVD players, camcorders and similar products. As of March 1, 2007, all newly manufactured TVs were re- quired to include digital tuners, but retailers could continue to sell analog -only devices from their existing inventory. As a result, many recent purchasers of new TVs may not be aware that their equipment won't be able to receive over - the -air -television signals after February 17, 2009. Converter box coupon program For consumers wishing to keep using their analog TV sets after February 17, 2009, the Federal government estab- lished the Digital -to -Analog Convert- er Box Coupon Program. Every U.S. household is eligible to receive up to two coupons — worth $40 each — that can be used at the time of purchase to- ward the cost of eligible converter boxes. Analog TV owners should take action soon to allow time for requesting and receiving the coupons, purchasing and connecting the con- verter boxes. Until March 31, 2009, while supplies last, coupons can be requested: Apply online — https://www.dtv2009.gov/ApplyCoupon.aspx Call the Coupon Program 24-hour hotline —1-888-388-2009 Download and complete coupon application from — https://www.dtv2009.gov/docs/Coupon_Program_App_en.pdf Mail it: PO Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000 Fax it: 1-877-388-4632 Deaf/Hearing-Impaired callers —1-877-530-2634 (English/TTY) or 1-866-495-1161 (Spanish/TTY) Find more information about: The DTV www.DTV.gov 1-888-225-5322 Transition www.dtvtransition.org 1-888-835-5322 TTY Coupon www.dtv2009.gov 1-888-388-2009 Program 1-877-530-2634 TTY Tukwila Parks & Recreation Department wins awards Washington Recreation LS— Park Association Tukwila Parks and Recreation was rec- ognized with three Spotlight Awards from Washington Recreation and Parks Association (WRPA), which honors public agencies for outstanding and unique achievements. Presented in April at WRPA's annual conference in Kennewick, the Spotlight Awards single out organizations for their con- tributions to parks and recreation in their community. Tukwila Parks and Recreation was honored to receive the following Spotlight Awards: Spotlight Facility & Parks Award of Excellence Macadam Winter Garden Park Spotlight Media Award of Excellence — Printed Map Burien/Seatac/Tukwila/Renton Parks & Trails Map Spotlight Website Award of Merit Tukwila Parks & Recreation website JULY 2008 5 "Law Enforcement Excellence" r 100 years of law enforcement excellence Here are some interesting facts about the Tukwila Police Department: • Tukwila's first law enforcement officer was a Town Marshal. In 1909 his salary was $80.00 per year. • In 1910 a City ordinance allowed all livestock to roam the streets and alleys. Any livestock found roaming during the restricted hours of 6:OOAM to 8:OOPM were impounded by the Marshal or his Deputy and held until penalties were paid. A subsequent ordinance allowed auctioning any un- claimed livestock. • In February 1916, Marshal Staffer requested a gun and handcuffs. The City Council issued a $10.00 warrant to pay for these items. • In August 1918, a motorcycle officer was appointed to enforce the speed limit of 12 mph on the new Pacific Highway. Fines collected totaled $508.50. • In September of that year the speeding fines collected totaled $215.00. The motorcycle officer reported that he had to sell his motorcycle because he expected to be drafted into the military due to World War 1. The Coun- cil decided to get a new officer and a motorcycle "with a speedometer." • In December of that same year, May Stevens reported that the motorcycle officer's enforcement of the reckless driving ordinance had resulted in the collection of $1,000.00, which went to the improvement of streets and sidewalks. • In September 1918, the Chief of Police was instructed to visit the parents of children who threw rocks, and have that behavior stopped. He did so, and also warned them against shooting guns inside the town limits. • During the 1960s one of the officers of the Tukwila Police Department had the last name of Hancuff. Another had the last name of Pigg. • Our first K-9 Unit went into service in 1980. Gerry Myklebust and his partner K-9 Kato attended the Cascade County K-9 Academy in Montana. • The first Tukwila Police female officer joined the Department in 1979. • In 1976, Tukwila, Kent, Renton and Auburn signed an interlocal agree- ment forming the Valley Communications Center for 911 dispatching ser- vices. • Around 1970 the Police Department began issuing sequential badge num- bers. The most recently issued badge number is #175. The Chief of Police is always assigned badge #1. D.A.R.E. recruits new faces The Police Department has two new D.A.R.E. officers who will be roaming the halls of the Tukwila schools come this fall. Teaching students to say no to drugs are Rory Mettlin, who will be teaching at Thorndyke Elementary, and Marc Schutt, who will be at Tukwila Elementary. Rory grew up in Tukwila where he gradu- ated from Foster High school. He has been a Tukwila Police Officer for 10 years and says he wouldn't work anywhere else. He and his wife Elysha have two children — Ethan, 6 and Anastacia, 2. Rory says that giving back to the community is important to him, and now — with his appointment to D.A.R.E. — he has the opportunity to give back to Tukwila's youngest citizens. Marc Schutt has been with the Tukwila Police Department for just over a year. He has wasted no time in getting involved with the community, participating in many Special Olympic events like being a guest waiter at Claim Jumpers restau- rant. Marc grew up in Joliet, Illinois, then moved to Arizona where the heat was too much, eventually migrating to Washing- ton State where he plans to stay for a long time. Marc has been married for almost two years to his wife Suzie. Both officers will be great additions to the D.A.R.E. Team, and are looking forward to meeting the 5th graders this fall. Marc Schutt Rory Mettlin 1 6 THE HAZELNUT Alert citizens aid Tukwila Police in captures As you know, the police cannot be everywhere. Oftentimes, citizens witness suspicious activity but are hesitant to call 911. These are recent examples of incidents in Tukwila where observant citizen calls to 911 — along with quick police response — resulted in the apprehen- sion of criminals. • • • • When a neighbor working in his yard observed two males force open the front door to a residence and go inside, he immediately called 911. As the suspects exited the house, Tukwila Police of- ficers were on location to greet them. The suspects were found to be in possession of stolen jewelry and other items. A second neighbor had provided accurate descriptions of the suspects, their vehicle and clothing, which also helped in their capture. Officers responded immediately to a 911 call coming in as a sus- picious person going through yards and trying the door handles of vehicles. The caller gave such a detailed description of the suspect and his vehicle that the officers were able to find and arrest him for vehicle prowl. A call came in after midnight of a male knocking on a female res- ident's door demanding to be let in and given money. The caller gave a good suspect description, including his clothing. Officers searched the area and found the suspect at a bus stop. After a short foot chase, he was arrested for a drug violation, obstructing, and resisting arrest. A homeowner called after viewing a suspicious vehicle with a driver who was opening mailboxes and taking mail. The caller gave a good description of the vehicle and the direction it was going. Tukwila Police responded within minutes and spotted the suspect vehicle. When officers contacted the suspect, they found stolen mail in his possession. He was arrested for theft of mail, as well as a drug violation. Officer receives award On March 22, 2008 Officer Brian Jordan, a two-year veteran with Tukwila Police De- partment, was given a Community Service Award at a dinner award ceremony held at Chateau Ste. Michelle in Woodinville. The award was presented to him by ASIS, the largest organization for security profession- als in the world. A Kohl's loss prevention officer had nominated Officer Jordan for this award. Selected by the ASIS panel from among numerous nomina- tions, Officer Jordan was selected for his attentiveness and respon- siveness to the job and how that positively affects the loss prevention industry. A total of four officers from the greater King County area received awards. Coping with coyotes Driving through almost any area of the City reveals some type of construction or development work underway. Change is constant, and new homes and businesses mean we're growing and attracting new people to our community. Unfortunately, new development work often dis- places some of the wildlife that is native to this area, such as raccoons, possums, skunks and coyotes. Tukwila's Code Enforcement Division has received several calls in the past few weeks regarding coyote sightings in open areas, roadways, even backyards. Here are some important things to keep in mind: • The promise of food is what lures coyotes and other wildlife into suburban yards. Never leave pet food or water outside; if you compost, be sure to use enclosed bins and never include meat or fish scraps. Keep all trash and garbage securely contained in covered bins. Pick up fruit fallen from fruit trees or rotted fruit on the ground. • Coyotes can be serious predators of cats and small dogs. Owners can protect their pets by not letting them outdoors unattended, especial- ly at night. (Coyotes and raccoons are primarily nocturnal.) • Poultry can be protected from predators with fencing and by ensuring that the animals are confined in sturdy cages or pens each evening. • Clear brush and dense weeds from around your house. • If coyotes visit your yard, tell them they're not welcome. Be assertive... make loud noises or spray near them with garden hoses. Coyotes and other wildlife help keep the balance of nature in order. An area with coyotes will not be overrun with mice, gophers, squirrels, rabbits or in- sects. By eliminating the reasons — food, water and shelter — that wild animals might be in the vicinity, the wildlife will relocate themselves. Find more information on urban wildlife online: http://wdfw.wa.gov/w1m/living/coyotes.htm http://www.fundwildlifaorg/coexist/coyotes.html Code Enforcement Office — 206-431-3676 JULY 2008 7 Glaat's MelOCe tit Hamait gen/tees Dental coverage for children in King County Dental coverage is available at no cost to income -qualified King County children under the age of 20. This oral health pilot program is supported by the Washington Dental Ser- vice, in partnership with the King County Children's Health Initiative. Parents may choose any provider in the Washing- ton Dental Service Participating PPO network. Income guidelines are shown at right. If your household in- come falls below these figures, your children may qualify for other healthcare programs. — for example, Community Health Access Program (CHAP) at 206-296-4841. Applications are available in English, Spanish and Vietnam- ese. For more information, call 1-866-839-9466. This program ends on December 31, 2008. Family Size Monthly Household income 2 $2,852 — $3,423 3 $3,577 — $4,293 4 $4,309 — $5,163 5 $5,027 — $6,033 6 $5,752 — $6,903 7 $6,477 — $7,773 8 $7,202 — $8,643 9 $7,928 — $9,513 The Youth Health Center has moved Highline's Youth Health Center offers low-cost and insur- ance -eligible healthcare for adolescents ages 13-19 in the community. Their new clinic location is on the campus of Highline Medical Center in Burien, at 16110 - 8th Avenue SW, Suite B-1. Patients can be seen from 9:30AM-5:45PM, Monday through Thursday, and 9:30AM-2:OOPM on Friday. For appointments or directions, call 206-439-9300. At the YHC, teens can expect confidential, caring medical care from practitioners who specialize in the health care needs of adolescents and teenagers. Operated by a medical director and a physician assistant, the YHC staff also includes a public health nurse and a mental health counselor. As a partner with both the Highline and Tukwila school dis- tricts, the YHC offers adolescents health care that addresses their specific needs, including sports physicals, contracep- tion, and counseling. Parents are asked to sign a consent form for students under age 18, so the student will be able to receive immediate care for acute conditions or illnesses. Most parents find this service helpful when they are unable to accompany their teenager to the YHC during the work week. The Youth Health Center has been operating and caring for our community's youth since 1998. Human Services Office Evie — 206-433-7180 Stacy — 206-433-7181 IIP Crisis Clinic (24-hour line) 206-461-3222 A new life for your past baby necessities You can reach out to your neighbor with love, hope and gently -used, no -longer -needed items. Serving residents of Tukwila and the surrounding area for over 30 years, Preg- nancy Aid of South King County provides maternity, infant and young children's clothing to anyone who needs it. Safe- ty -inspected car seats are often available, as well as strollers, high chairs, furniture items, children's books, stuffed ani- mals and other toys, and small quantities of diapers. They also provide information and referrals to various programs. There is no charge for these services. If you have items to share, please consider dropping them off at Pregnancy Aid during office hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10:00AM to 1:OOPM. During the winter months, warm coats are especially needed and will be appreciated. Also, volunteer help is always welcome. 730 South 225th, Des Moines — 206-878-3770 Airport -related employment assistance Located in the main terminal of the Seattle -Tacoma Interna- tional Airport, and operated by the non-profit organization Port Jobs, Airport Jobs is a one-stop employment center that provides job search and placement, retention services, and career upgrade support for people employed and seeking employment in or around SeaTac Airport. At the Airport Jobs office (Room 6447), located on the Mezzanine level from inside the airport, you can review current openings for airport and local related employers, submit job applications to employers, create resumes and cover letters, and find out about job fairs and recruiting events. With expanded services for job seekers, airport workers and employers, Airport Jobs is a busy place. Working in partnership with Port Jobs, the non-profit organi- zation Solid Ground offers the Working Wheels program, with affordable used cars, financial education, and low-in- terest auto loans for low-income workers. Living without a reliable car is a significant problem for such workers, limit- ing job choices and making it difficult to stay on the job or pursue further education and training that can build careers. Since 2002, more than 350 people have been helped. Airport Jobs office hours are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30Am to 4:30PM, Wednesday from 12:00 to 7:OOPM, and Friday from 12:00 to 4:30PM. Their phone number is 206-835-7501. No appointments are needed and services are free. Visit their website at www.airportjobs.org. 8 THE HAZELNUT Foster Leadership Team 2006-2008 In fall 2006, the Foster Leadership Team student group be- gan meeting every Friday after school at Foster High School. Co -created by a staff counselor and Education & Prevention Specialist Shauna Rumsey from King County Sexual Assault Resource Center (KCSARC), the group was formed to give students an opportunity to build upon the following skills: communication, empathy, social -emotional development, and positive non-violent bystander intervention in situations of bullying and/or sexual harassment. Consisting of stu- dents from grades 9 thru 12, the group also provided young- er students with older student mentors. For two years, KCSARC worked with a core group of ten students, working toward a more accepting "Foster culture" of kindness and respect for students of all different kinds of backgrounds, ethnicities and cultures. Following KCSARC's mission — "Give Voice, Create Change and Instill Courage" — the Team offered students a chance to voice their thoughts and opinions and listen to others; to encourage talk with peers about stereotypes, sexual harassment and bullying; to intervene in a non-violent way if possible; and to encour- age long-term positive change among students in the school community and the larger Tukwila community. Student Maksim Mikossyanchik, who grew up in Northern Kazakhstan close to Russia's border, enjoys the diverse envi- ronment of Tukwila, and says his participation in the Foster Leadership Team — discussing varieties of topics and partic- ipating in different activities — made him became a better listener and helper, and better understand life situations Childcare Certification Program at ReWA's SeaTac office Having a marketable skill is the first dren and workmates from diverse step towards entering the workforce with confidence and success. Howev- er, for refugees and immigrants, expen- sive trainings and courses that provide certification in one skill or another are often financially inaccessible and shrouded in a language barrier. In its SeaTac office, the Refugee Wom- en's Alliance (ReWA) offers its clients a uniquely crafted, State -recognized cer- tification program well within reach of childcare providers. Rather than tui- tion, the only student requirement is a committed effort. About 90% of the program's graduates are Tukwila and SeaTac residents. Graduates of ReWA's Childcare Certi- fication Program go forth with more than just qualification for employment in licensed childcare facilities. Basic employment skills such as preparing a resume, approaching an interview and dressing for success are also woven into the curriculum, as is CPR train- ing, team -building, child development studies, and awareness of communica- ble diseases. Most importantly, graduates of the program are equipped to facilitate a multi -cultural classroom, where chil- backgrounds are equally engaged and included. Meeting the childcare needs of King County's ethnically diverse population is a necessary skill, accord- ing to Maggie Sung, ReWA WorkFirst Community Liaison of the program. Children in nurseries need staff who are familiar to them and understand their cultural values, providing conti- nuity so that the child won't feel lost. ESL instructors — ReWA case managers hailing from East Africa and Southeast Asia — provide trainees with vocabulary from several languages that pertains es- pecially to the classroom environment. One hundred hours of voluntary study through internship at a local licensed childcare facility is required for stu- dents to complete their STARS (State Training and Registry System) certifi- cation. Supervisors of these facilities note the exceptional job performance of our program members, and several have been employed upon completion of their internships. On April 11, twelve women — most- ly residents of Tukwila and SeaTac — graduated from the ReWA Childcare Certification Program in a ceremony held in the SeaTac office. This team of graduates was richly diverse, repre- senting the nations of Somalia, Ethi- opia, Eritrea, and Iran. "It's a mixed group and they learn about each oth- er in the class, too — that's what is so great." says Maggie. For more information on the ReWA Childcare Certification Program, please contact Maggie Sung at Maggie@rewa. oar , or call 206-957-2029. JULY 2008 9 Have fun at Tukwila's first Wellness Expo Come take the Tukwila Life Challenge on Saturday, September 6 at the Fos- ter High School Track and Field, as we strive to make our community healthi- er at the Tukwila Health, Safety and Wellness Expo featuring the Tukwila High -Tech Treasure Hunt! Stroll through the expo booths and learn about community organizations com- mitted to health, safety and wellness. Sign up for the Fun Walk and win priz- es! Donate new or slightly used items to the shoe, sock and coat drive. Kids can participate in track and field events and even have some wild fun on inflat- ables and bouncy toys. The Expo runs from 12:00NooN to 4:00PM. Participate in the High -Tech Treasure Hunt using GPS tracking units as you and your team trek around Tukwila to find caches (or prizes)! At 9:00AM ge- oteamers check in at the registration table to receive their GPS units and clues! To sign up for the Tukwila High Tech Treasure Hunt, visit our website at www.tukwila100.com/geoteaminq and have your team captain complete the online registration form. The cost for participating is FREE for Tukwila resi- dents, City of Tukwila employees and Tukwila School District employees. Non-residents cost $10 per team and corporate/business teams are $50. Teams can have a maximum of four members. GPS rental is also free to the first 100 teams. Registration forms are also available at the Tukwila Commu- nity Center. Happy hunting! More expo information is available at www.tukwila100.com/centennial.html Tukwila' --T3RA.T INC Join Tukwila's Night Out Against Crime Mark Tuesday, August 5 on your calendar to attend or sponsor a Tukwila Night Out Against Crime event. National Night Out (NNO) is Tuesday, August 5. Each year, hundreds of Tukwila residents join their neigh bors in celebrating an evening of fun while sending the message to criminals that they are not welcome in Tukwila. Tukwila Police and Fire Departments, as well as City Council members, Code Enforcement officers and Tukwila Human Services representatives, will visit each neighborhood event that "registers" their event by Monday, August 4. The types of neighborhood events vary. Most neighborhoods plan a potluck barbecue to take advantage of the wide and wonderful ethnic food contributions Tukwila residents have to offer. If you are holding an event, want to find one or want more information, please contact Community Policing Coordinator Chris Partman, at 206-431-2197 or email cpartman@ci.tukwila.wa.us. Tukwila's Graffiti Hotline Graffiti in our community is a nuisance and an eyesore. You are encouraged to report graffiti in Tukwila by calling 206-431-2180. Please provide as much information as possible in your message, including the exact address — or the street where the graffiti is located and a cross street — and the type of object that has been defaced. You can remain anonymous, but if you'd like a return call, please leave your name and number and City Staff will call you back. We appreciate your help in the keeping our City clean. "Streamlined" Sales Tax comes to Washington State Until now, retail sales tax was collected based on the location where the mer- chandise was sold or shipped from. Beginning July 1, 2008, Washington retailers delivering goods to customers in Washington must start collecting sales tax based on where the customer receives the merchandise — the "destination" of the sale. For example, if a Renton resident purchases a couch from a furniture store in Tukwila and requests home delivery, the sales tax will be based on the City of Renton's rate. The local sales tax revenue will go to the City of Renton, even though the store is in Tukwila. The "streamlined" sales tax is part of a national effort to involve all states in the collection of sales tax based on the point of delivery — most specifically, to be able to collect taxes from companies selling over the internet or through catalogs. The destination sales tax is a change for businesses that deliver merchandise in Washington. There is no change for over-the-counter sales where customers take home goods from the store location in Washington, and there is no change for sales to out-of-state customers. How could this affect Tukwila citizens? Our city is a center of retail activity and warehouses/distribution centers, attracting shoppers from cities throughout the region, and a change in the amount of revenues collected through sales taxes could affect funding of various projects and services provided by Tukwila. Al- though the new law allows mitigation from the State for jurisdictions adversely impacted, it will be some time before it is known exactly what the impacts are. 1 10 THE HAZELNUT 10 tips for cutting down on your trash 1. Make recycling convenient. Put recycling bins in your kitchen, home office and bedrooms. 2. Corry and use a reusable water bottle. 3. Compost or place food waste in your yard waste cart (if you have yard waste recycling.) 4. Post recycling guidelines on your refrigerator or other prominent spot. 5. Instead of throwing items away, give some items to charity or hold a garage sale (take part in the Tukwila Community Garage Sale - see article at right.) 6. Bring a reusable cloth or plastic bag when you shop. Reuse paper or plastic bags that you get at the store. 7 Recycle your old television, computer and other electronics at a Take It Back Network location near you. Visit www.takeitbacknetwork.org. 8. Get off junk mail lists. (Find ways to do this online.) 9. Print (double -sided) from your computer only if necessary. Otherwise, store your files electronically. 10. Reuse foam packaging or take it to a shipping store. A healthier, greener approach to cleaning Common household products, including drain cleaners, may contain hazardous ingredients. To clean your drains in a safer way, avoid commercial drain cleaning products marked DANGER or POISON. Instead of commercial products, try these four methods, in this order, as needed. 1. Pour boiling water down the drain. Repeat if needed 2. Use a plunger. 3. Use a "plumber's snake." 4. If all else fails, call the plumber! Penguin winner! In May, Tukwila resident Sarah Wright contributed the winning recycling tip and won a recycled plastic penguin in a contest held during the Backyard Wildlife Festival at the Community Center. Mrs. Wright's winning tip: to make decorative, hanging picture frames from old CDs! 15th annual Tukwila Community Garage Sale - August 23 & 24 HOLD A SALE! Join in the fun! Hold a yard/garage sale at your home on the same days as your neighbors all across Tukwila! Clean your home, recycle, and earn some cash. Your sale will get free publicity—The City will publish a list of sale locations Wednesday, August 20, in the Renton Re- porter and Kent Reporter newspapers. The sale will be publicized via craigslist.com and other venues. We'll mail you a small sign that identifies your home to shoppers, along with a packet of information plus tips on holding a sale. REGISTER BY AUGUST 4 – To hold a yard sale please provide your name, address (with zip code) of garage sale, mailing address (with zip code if different from yardsale location), phone number, and email address. Here's how to register: • On-line at www.ci.tukwila.wa.us/yardsale.htm • Email rfox@ci.tukwila.wa.us • Phone 206-433-7178 • Mail to: Rebecca Fox, City of Tukwila, 6300 Southcenter Blvd, Tukwila, WA 98188 JUST WANT TO SHOP? To find the sale locations: • Starting August 20, view a map and list of sale locations on Tukwila's website at www.ci.tukwila.wa.us • Starting August 21, pick up a map and list of sale sites during regular operating hours at these locations: Tukwila City Hall – 6200 Southcenter Boulevard Tukwila Community Center – 12424 42nd Avenue S Tukwila Pool – 4414 South 144th Street Foster Golf Clubhouse – 13500 Interurban Avenue S Foster Library – 4060 South 144th Street Tukwila Library – 14475 - 59th Avenue S • Check the ad with a list of sale locations in the August 20 editions of the Kent Reporter and Renton Reporter. • On August 23 & 24, simply drive around Tukwila looking for the bright yellow signs that identify sale locations. JULY 2008 11 CITY DIRECTORY TUKWILA CITY HALL 6200 Southcenter Boulevard Hours: Monday—Friday, 8:30MM-5:00PM Telephone: 206-433-1800 Fax number: 206-433-1833 TTY number: 206-248-2933 Website: http://www.ci.tukwila.wa.us E-mail: tukwfla@ci.tukwila.wa.us TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL Joe Duffie, Pres. (beeper #) 206-994-7229 Joan Hernandez 206-248-0260 Pamela Linder 206-439-2473 Dennis Robertson 206-242-6373 Verna Griffin 206-901-9251 Kathy Hougardy 206-244-5023 De'Sean Quinn 206-241-0225 Kimberly Matej, Analyst 206-433-1834 Council Message Line 206-431-3652 CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS 7:OOPM in Council Chambers Regular Meetings 1st/3rd Mondays Work Meetings 2nd/4th Mondays Agenda Info Line 206-431-3656 CITY OFFICES Mayor Jim Haggerton 206-433-1805 Rhonda Berry, City Admin 206-433-1851 City Clerk's Office 206-433-1800 Economic Development 206-433-1832 Human Services 206-433-7180 Municipal Court 206-433-1840 Tourism/Marketing 206-575-2489 Community Development Dept. Jack Pace, Director 206-431-3670 Code Enforcement 206-431-3682 Finance Department Director 206-433-1835 Fire Department Nick Olivas, Chief 206-575-4404 IT Department Mary Miotke, Director 206-433-7150 Parks/Recreation Department Bruce Fletcher, Director 206-767-2342 Personnel Department Viki Jessop, Director 206-433-1831 Personnel 206-433-1831 City Job Line 206-433-1828 Police Department David Haynes, Chief 206-433-1808 Public Works Department Jim Morrow, Director 206-433-0179 Emergency Fire, Police 911 TUKWILA COMMUNITY CENTER 12424 - 42nd Avenue South Recreation Division 206-768-2822 Senior Center/Services 206-767-2323 TUKWILA CITY POOL 4414 S. 144th Street 206-267-2350 FOSTER GOLF LINKS 13500 Interurban Avenue South THE HAZELNUT newsletter is published five times a year by the City of Tukwila, and written by City staff. Editing/production: Stacia Norris King County grant will enhance Tukwila Pond wetland buffer The City has received a "WaterWorks" grant from King County's Department of Natural Resources and Parks for improving the buffer and public access along the recently restored wetland next to Tukwila Pond (highlighted in the February Hazelnut). The habitat and public enjoyment of the area will be enhanced by the removal of invasive weeds (blackberry, ivy and others) along Andover Park West; con- struction of a simple trail through the buffer; planting of native trees, shrubs and groundcovers; and installation of interpretive signs. This project is one part of an overall plan to improve water quality, wildlife habitat, and public access at Tukwila Pond. Work on the project will start this summer, with blackberry removal by a conser- vation corps, funded by the County, and will continue into next spring. Macy's Logistics (the regional distribution center for Macy's stores) is the City's official partner, and their employees will be working as volunteers on the project along with City staff from the Community Development and Parks Departments. Your help is needed at future work parties! We are seeking additional volunteers to help with the project to make it a real community effort. Volunteers can assist by applying compost, planting, spreading wood chips, and weeding. If you would like to get involved, contact Volunteer Coordinator Tracy Gallaway at 206-768- 2822. She'll keep you informed about upcoming work parties. In order to stretch our grant funds as far as possible, we are also looking for local businesses willing to donate materials and other supplies, including: * Refreshments for volunteers during work parties ea * PVC piping and sprinkler heads for the temporary irrigation system ea Work gloves * Split rail fencing Native plants sir Compost (bulk) ea Wood chips or bark If your business can help with materials, please contact Sandra Whiting in the Department of Community Development at 206-431-3663, or Paul Surek in the Parks and Recreation Department at 206-433-7157. Watch future issues of the Hazelnut for reports on the progress of the enhancement project! •6•• VolunteerTukwila THE HAZELNUT City of Tukwila 6200 Southcenter Blvd. Tukwila, WA 98188 Postmaster: If named addressee has moved, deliver to current resident. r PRESORT STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID SEATTLE, WA PERMIT NO. 12698 To help us correct addresses or eliminate duplicates, please call 206-433-1800.