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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-09 Tukwila ReporterSCHOOL CONNECTIONS: Tukwila School District update, pages 7,10 & 11 [see us online www.tukwilareporter.com 2 ( SEPTEMBER 2013 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com Tukwila allocated one retail store for marijuana sales BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM Tukwila has been allocated one retail store where someone can sell marijuana, under rules the state proposed this month to implement the legalization of marijuana in the state. And the Tukwila City Council on a 5-1 vote Sept. 3 decided where that store will go, generally speaking, in one of two zones in the southern industrial area of the city or along the Tukwila -Renton border. The city's ordinance also would site mar- ijuana producers and processors in those two zones. The City Council majority decided that the city has spent sufficient time reviewing the regulations and that amendments to the regulations are possible as new infor- mation is learned from the state. The number of retail stores each city will receive was based on population; Tukwila has about 19,000 residents. The Washington State Liquor Control ‘i/s Taste of Tukwila A CoYmmunity heritage &Cu Celebration Celebrate Tukwild's diVerSit9! Friday, September 20, 3-7 p.m. with a special performance by Mariachi Mexico from 4-6 p.m. Foster High School 4242 S 144th, Tukwila This celebration will feature music, dance, art, and food from around the world. We are looking for any community members who are interested in sharing their culture through performances like music, dance and storytelling, through art like displays and hands-on activities, and through food at "A Taste of Tukwila", with a sampling of foods from around the world. For more information or to find out how you can participate in this event please contact Tracy Gallaway at the Tukwila Community Center by phone at (206) 768-2822 or via email at tracy.gallaway@tukwilawa.gov. THIS EVENT IS BROUGHT TO YOU IN PARTNERSHIP BY: TUKWILA PARKS & RECREATION CASCADE GOOD HEALTHY FL. WATER AL LIAN LL rrr, CULTURE 'a s„,,,,,o, Board also allocated 11 at -large licenses to sell marijuana anywhere in the county, in- cluding Tukwila The city has already received inquiries about marijuana sales and production, but until the state issues licenses, it's uncertain whether any retailers or producers will lo- cate in Tukwila. Tukwila and the public will have a chance to comment on the license applica- tion. The city won't issue a business license, because it's prohibited from doing so if the business violates local, state or federal laws, according to assistant city planner Stacy MacGregor. Marijuana is not legal under federal law. The state rules were proposed Sept. 4 and state Liquor Control Board will hold hearings, with final approval expected in November. If the state holds to its current schedule, producers, processors and retailers have 30 days ending Dec. 18 to apply for a state li- cense. Two volunteers at the Tukwila Pantry, Sean Pacheco, left, and Greg McManus restock the shelves at the food bank in Tukwila. Dean A. Radford/rukwila Reporter Pantry needs help BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM The recession has eased, but many fami- lies served by Tukwila Pantry food bank still couldn't easily put food on their table without its help. To help meet that need, Tukwila Pantry is holding its annual silent auction and din- ner Friday, Oct. 4, at the SeaTac Commu- nity Center, 13735 24th Ave. S., SeaTac. Tukwila Pantry serves around 4,000 households every year in the Tukwila, Bur- ien and SeaTac areas. But that's not just a one-time service; many of those families visit the food bank six or seven times a year, said Joe Tice, the food bank's director. The end of the recession hasn't necessar- ily eased the need. "Families who visit us are always the last ones to recover, if they do recover;" said Tice. "What we are seeing is a lot of people who aren't recovering" Families can get assistance just once a month but for as many months as they need, he said. There's no set goal for the fundraiser, but Tice would like to see about $10,000 raised. The fundraiser has raised less than that in the past, but Tice said he would really like Pantry auction e .inner an. 51 ent auction .y eTukwila Pantry is 5:30 p.m. -8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, at the SeaTac Com- munity Center, 13735 24th Ave. S., SeaTac. Dinner is at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are a $20 donation. To order tickets go online to www.tukwilapantry.org and click on the"News/Events tab"or call the food bank at 206-431-8293. Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School in Tukwila is preparing the meal. to see that increase. The cash is important because when food stores run low, like they will in the next two to three months, the food bank will need to buy food, Tice said. "You are looking at a high -dollar ticket item," he said, when buy- ing canned food or milk. The annual fundraiser is also a chance for the community to meet the individuals who run the food bank, including volun- teers, and hear the stories of those who are served. "They really get a picture of what the need is," Tice said. "It's greater than what most people in our community think." www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » SEPTEMBER 2013 3 'Incredible' energy as schools start year BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@ TUKWILAREPORTER.COM What would the first day of school be without some nervous kids and parents, a few tears and photos? It was back to school Sept. 4 for thousands of kids in the Tukwila School District. Enrollment stood at 2,932 on Sept. 11, 73 more students than the previous September. That number likely will continue to fluctuate until the official tally is taken in early October. There were no significant over- crowding issues, in part because of two new portables at Foster High School. "The facilities folks were work- ing pretty hard up until the first Jackson Tucker, a new second grader at Tukwila Elementary School, waves to his father Anthony as we waits in the gym before the start of school Sept. 4. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter bell to get them ready;' said Sara Niegowski, the new communi- School Board forum is Oct. 9 The candidates for two seats on the Tukwila School Dis- trict Board of Directors will appear at a candidates forum Oct. 9 at Foster High School. State Rep. Zack Hudgins is the moderator for the forum, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center at Foster, 4242 S. 144th St., Tukwila. The School Board candidates are District 1, incumbent Mary E. Fertakis and Jennifer L. Johnson, and District 3, incumbent Alicia Waterton and Bobby Cruz. Those attending will have a chance to ask the candidates questions. The forum is sponsored by the Tukwila Reporter. The school district is providing the use of the performing arts center for free. The HAIIII Tradeshow "Connecting People and Businesses that Build, Remodel, and Repair." Need Help with a Project? Come to our Tradeshow at Renton Community Center Fri, Oct 11th, 12pm-5pm/Sat, Oct 12th, 9am-4pm • Free to Attend! Open to the Public. • Over 100 exhibitors with trades -related products/services. • Handyguyz.com connects you to the pros! • Employers & Jobseekers! Bring your resume. • Bring your family for fun kid's games & activities. • Network, network, network! All attendees are entered into drawing to win $2000 towards a bath remodel www.handyguyz.com E: info@handyguyz.com P: (206) 858-3893 cations director for the Tukwila School District. The power went off at Foster the second day of school; Seattle City Light worked into the night to restore power, so there was minimal disruption to the school, said Niegowski. The first day of school had "an incredible energy," said Superin- tendent Nancy Coogan. "Everyone was glad to be back, and the connections I saw be- tween staff members and students were phenomenal — from hugs on the school bus to welcoming remarks in the classroom to high - fives with the custodian" Coogan toured throughout the district on opening day. For about an hour before the start of classes, the scene at Tuk- wila Elementary School was or- ganized chaos. Teachers, staff and volunteers made sure everyone was going to the right place. "We're off to a great start;' said Principal Steve Salisbury. "We have the best staff ever. We're go- ing to have a school full of kids. What more could you want?" Students and parents checked lists on the front doors for teacher assignments and then when the doors opened, some headed for a breakfast and the rest sat down in the gym behind cones marked with a teacher's name. "You can see the smiles on the kids' faces. They are so excited;' said Anthony Tucker, who has two children at Tukwila Elemen- tary, Jackson, a second grader, and Maleya, a third grader. I tukwila WINNER BEST0F2013 TUKWILA • SEATAC• DES MOINESAWS ARDS/ reporter •EVERYTHING f _ � GEAREDTOWp'RD . • • SEGA- .FORTA ND.oOM Wt1: -, .: f ENIOYMENT •. Tukwila, WA 98188 206-575-1 130 * fax: 206-575-1733 www.doctorbuda.com • Is s,• * 6 month preventative ert `r ` s * Free Orthodontic exams * Brushing for toddlers * Teething tips *White Fillings * Sports Guards * Space Maintainers *Thumb Guards * Anxiety Medication * General Anaesthesia available Our office is fun and kid friendly. We have great games and giveaways during the year. Your child gets a prize and sticker at every visit. Dr. Buda is currently accepting many different insurance plans. Over the last four years we have become a preferred provider for 7 major insurance companies including: *Aetna •Assurant *Cigna *Delta •DSHS *Great West •Guardian •Humana •Metlife •Premera •Regence •WDS •United Concordia 865821 index 2 potsales The Washington State Liquor Control Board has allocated one retail store in Tukwila for the sale of marijuana, in zones the City Council has approved 4 allneeds The goal of the Tukwila School District this year is to meet the needs of all of its students and for all staff to get to know their names. 5 coverstory Tukwila Police Officer Brent Frank and police dog Ace are often on the frontlines of the battle against crime in Tukwila as they search for suspects 13 motelsgone The City of Tukwila, working with a number of state and federal agencies, seized three motels on Tukwila International Boulevard 14 girlssoccer The Foster High School girls soccer team, loaded with seniors and freshmen, is ready to take on the rest of the Seamount League tukwila reporter SOUND PUBLISHING INC. >19426 68th Avenue South > Kent, WA 98032 >253.872.6600 > www.tukwilareporter.com 4 SEPTEMBER 2013 www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com rt > write staff regional publisher polly shepherd publisher ellen morrison publisher@tukwilareporter.com editor dean radford editor@tukwilareporter.com circulation james kostoroski 253.872.6610 The Tukwila Reporter encourages reader participation in your community newspaper. Share your thoughts in a letter to the editor (200 words or less) including your full name, address and phone number. HERE'S HOW To submit a letter to the editor, E-MAIL: editor@ tukwilareporter.com FAX: 253.437.6016 MAIL: 19426 68th Ave. 5., Ste. A, Kent, WA 98032 STORY IDEAS: dradford@ tukwilareporter.com ONLINE CALENDAR: tukwilareporter.com SOUND PUBLISHING INC. tu kwilalcommentary Legislature must get South Sound moving again Washington state's economy may be get- ting back on track but it will jump off again quickly if our state legislators cannot put aside their differences and put together a trans- portation package fully funding major proj- ects in our South Sound region, such as the completion of both State Route 509 and State Route 167, the Federal Way Triangle and the enhancements to the southern part of Inter- state 405. Thousands of short-term jobs and lOs of thousands of long-term jobs are at risk if we do not complete projects that have been in the pipeline for nearly 40 years designed to reduce the regional congestion that frustrates citizens, delays the moving of goods and ser- vices through our ports, and forces businesses out of the area. The Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce is a member of the South Sound Chamber of Commerce Legislative Coalition (SSCCLC) and understands the importance of thinking broadly about our transportation so- lutions. The SSCCLC came together several years ago to force this broader dis- cussion. After seeing trans- portation dollars going all over the state with no thought to overall econom- ic benefit, we wanted to highlight how investments in our region impact the economy of the en- tire state. The impact is backed up by statistics out of the Connecting Washington Transpor- tation Task Force clearly showing the South King County and Pierce County regions as an area for significant potential job growth and business location. The completion of SR 167, as an example, is estimated to create 80,000 long-term permanent jobs according to the Washington State Department of Transpor- tation. Studies show that completing SR 509 will generate $700 million new construction, and nearly $34 million in new state and local tax revenues. In addition, our region includes both major seaports and an international air- port that handle cargo and passengers from all across the state. However, our region is also home to some of the most frustrating traffic congestion — con- gestion that puts Washington at a competitive disadvantage compared to the rest of North America. With other states and Canada put- ting more money into their ports, along with the improvements to the Panama Canal, our state's ports are at risk of losing business if we don't improve freight mobility With 40 per- cent of the state's jobs - in both Eastern and Western Washington - tied to port -related activity, harming our ports' competitiveness would be devastating. This past legislative session, legislators came closer than ever to developing a package that put more focus on transportation projects that would have a significant benefit to the entire [ more CHAMBER page 13] 1 Meeting needs of all Dear Tukwila community, Our all -staff kickoff event this year had the beautiful coincidence of falling on the 50th anniversary of Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech. Us- ing this as a launching pad, we came together to talk about our core values —the things that collectively motivate us every day as we serve some of the smartest, most diverse children in the nation. We are in the business of provid- ing access for ALL students. We value the dignity of every life, no matter whose. And we open our hearts to each other, no matter the differ- ences. Ul- timately, we decided that we are all responsible for helping to build a socially just world. We left the kickoff abso- lutely energized, and the opening weeks of school have seen no come down. I have been the chief learner, get- ting on the bus with students the first day and visiting as many classrooms as possible. I discovered how to stair -step for counting using math ma- nipulatives, the added chal- lenges of navigating school for students brand new to the country, how to calculate the volume of a gummy bear and make predictions using clues from texts, and how to move Superintendent Nancy Coogan met with students throughout the district on the first day of school. Tukwila School District kindergartners through their first lunch experience, among many other lessons! There have been a few hiccups, such as a mysterious power failure at Foster the second day, but everyone has come together to support students and each other. Overall, it has been a fun, educational, action - packed opening to school — and it's only going to get bet- ter! My personal mission this school year, as shared by my fellow educators, is every name and every need. We are going to be doing incredibly hard work, implementing the new Common Core Standards and the state's teacher/prin- cipal evaluation system; we will be aligning curriculum and training educators in best practices; we are expanding targeted intervention strat- egies to reach each level of learner. At the end of the day, however, it comes down to knowing every child by name and need: Who are they and what do they need to reach their fullest potential? To get there, we need to partner with you. These are our schools collectively. You are always invited to volun- teer, attend an athletic event or performance, or call me if you want to talk about edu- cation. If you are a parent or guardian, ask your teacher or principal for resources to help extend the school day at home in fun and meaningful ways. Welcome to the 2013-14 school year, Tukwila. It's going to be great! In service, Superintendent Nancy Coogan can be reached via email at coogann@tukwila.wednet.edu Patronize local business If you are like me, you like to patronize lo- cal businesses that believe in giving back to the communities in which they do business. It may surprise some to know that the local casinos do just that. The four local casinos are the Golden Nugget, Great American, Macau and Riv- erside. All four have been donating $50 a month to the Tukwila Pantry since the summer of 2012. In addition each casino has donated funds for the con- struction of our new Tukwila Library, part of the overall Tukwila Village project: Great American, $1,500, Riverside, $1,500, Golden Nugget, $500, and Macau, $500. This is cash ellSr CC C L zL W a. 2 u V .c vu right off the bottom line. Great American has this listed in their company values: Citizenship: We will support the communities in which we live and work. These businesses also pay a 10 percent gam- bling tax on gross receipts; that means before expenses. It is a bit too high in my opinion. In the first quarter of 2013, Tukwila residents received $557,000 in revenues. In the second quarter of 2013, Tukwila residents received $631,000 in revenues. If you are thinking about having dinner out or watching a ballgame in a sports -bar envi- ronment, give these businesses a shot. After all, they support your community. Tukwila Reporter columnist Chuck Parrish can be reached at dradford@tukwilareporter.com. www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » SEPTEMBER 2013 5 Ace: The tip of the spear for police BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@ TUKWILAREPORTER.COM Ace tracked the felony suspect to a creek along State Route 167, where he had submerged himself under water. Suddenly, the 2 -year-old Ger- man shepherd was on the man, who was combative and in no mood to give up. Ace's training kicked in, grabbing the suspect's arm with a single bite and holding him until fellow officers quickly arrived. It was Ace's first apprehension that June night as one half of the Tukwila Police Department's new- est K-9 team. It was a textbook track and arrest, one that proved immediately that Ace was ready to face real-life police work head on. The transition from train- ing mindset to real-life mindset can take months for some dogs, says Tukwila Police Officer Brent Frank, who as Ace's handler is the second half of the team. But Ace got it right the first time, showing their 500 hours of training "was great;' Frank said. They do it all speaking in German. "It was great affirmation for me that he is going to engage a suspect when we find him. That's a big deal for a brand new dog; said Frank. Through the first week of Sep- tember, the team has made six ar- rests in successful tracks. Ace and Frank follow in the steps of two K-9 units, Stryker and Officer Eric DeVries and Gino and Officer James Sturgill. Both teams received the Distinguished Service Medal from the City of Tukwila in August following the police dogs' retirements from the police force. That a police dog's life on duty is dangerous is told in Gino's story. Six months on the job, during the capture of a robbery and as- sault suspect on June 15, 2009, Gino was stabbed in the neck. He recovered and returned to duty three weeks later. By the time Gino retired last October, he and Stur- gill had captured 71 suspects. Every time Ace leaps from the back seat of the patrol cruiser and Frank puts on his harness and 30 - foot lead, he's at risk, Frank said. But in taking that risk, Ace is fulfilling his primary function - to keep officers and the public safe - often as the first officer to confront a suspect. "He's the tip of the spear," Frank says. Ace lives with Frank and the officer's wife and their 10 -month- old daughter in Puyallup. He has a 6 -foot by 16 -foot kennel at home, which he trades for a kennel in the back seat of Frank's cruiser. Officer Brent Frank regularly goes through obedience training with Ace before heading out on patrol. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter Ace gets a meal at about 3 p.m., letting Frank know about it if he's late with his food. He'll run around the backyard, until he hears the car start and doors opening. He waits anxiously at the back gate. It's time to head for work. "He literally will drag me to the car because he's so excited, because he knows where we're going; Frank says. At the station, Frank puts a work collar on Ace, gives him some wa- ter and pets him. The set routine is important because it clues in Ace that they are at work now, Frank says. Ace remains in the car while Frank is in the police station; he'll occasionally come inside to run round and sniff the other officers to get to know them. If Frank and Ace don't have calls immediately, they will go to a nearby parking garage for obedience training, such as heeling and sitting down from a distance. It's a reminder Ace needs to listen to "dad;' as Frank refers to himself. "They stay sharp if you routinely do those things, so it's a perishable skill, Frank says. And the 2 -year-old burns off some energy. Then they're off on patrol, just like other officers, but always ready to take K-9 calls. Frank doesn't transport suspects, because Ace's kennel fills the backseat, his "home away from home;' as Frank says. "He loves the back of the car," says Frank. "He's very protective of it:' It's where Ace waits on alert for Frank to give him the command to jump out. Frank also has a door popper on his uniform he can push if he's too far away to open the door manually. Their daily routine includes a bathroom stop for Ace, usually around 11:30 p.m. Then the call goes out for a K-9 unit. Again, the training - and the trust - kick in. "That's something they really hammer into you during train- ing, is trusting your dog, Frank said. Ace has "special abilities" that humans don't - the ability to catch and track a faint scent. Ace can find a suspect who would elude of- ficers, even one a few feet way. Every track begins with a start point - the suspect was last scene right here. Frank gives the com- mand to find the guy, in German; Ace was born in Germany and received his early obedience train- ing there, in German. "He doesn't speak English; says Frank. Ace puts his nose down and when he finds the scent, he starts tracking. Ace might lose an old scent, which simply has disap- peared. Or a fresh scent might end because the suspect is on a bus or was picked up in a car or is outside a police perimeter. But as long as there is a scent, Ace will track. He's on the 30 -foot lead that lets him work a big area. Or Frank can rein him in, if they are in a backyard or need to go around tight corners. If something distracts Ace, Frank tells him to ignore it, in Ger- man. Ace is nearly always in Frank's sight, perhaps going off -lead in a contained area, such as a green- belt, and after Frank has given his warnings to the suspect that he or she is being tracked and he may get bitten by a police dog. Ace is still visible because of the blue strobe light on his harness. Over the months of training and field work, Frank has learned to "read" Ace's tracking behavior. If the scent is 15 or 20 minutes old, Ace has his nose to the ground and his tail wags as he leans into the harness. If that behavior changes, Frank, as Ace's teammate, helps him find the scent again - maybe the sus- pect has jumped a fence. The scent can do "crazy things; altered by water, a wall or a tree. Scent will climb a tree, then cast out 15 or 20 feet. Ace knows the suspect is close but can't get "right to him, right away, says Frank. Eventually, Ace will find him, looking up in the tree and barking. In other cases scent will pool, becoming stronger where a sus- pect is hiding under a building or bush. When Ace gets close, his head comes up. It's called air scent- ing. The scent is airborne and Ace can smell it. Ace will become excited, maybe bark a little. And he starts looking where his nose tells him to look. At this point Frank calls for his back- up. The suspect is close. Ace's role has changed now. He's found the suspect; now Ace has to apprehend the suspect if he doesn't surrender. Frank gives his warn- ing: come out with your hands up or you may be bit. If the suspect refuses, Frank can send in Ace if the suspect is judged a danger to officers or the public, he's hiding or if officers can't see his hands. Ace is taught a technique called bite and hold. He bites just once and holds on. He doesn't bite a sec- ond time, nor is there any ripping and tearing, Frank says. "It's just like if someone grabbed you and won't let go," said Frank. Ace is still in danger, but he's helped ensure officers aren't. Even this is part of his training. "He's taught to be courageous; said Frank. Join us for dinner tonight. y Lukwila WINNER ported BESToF2013 TUKWILA • SEATAC • DES MOINES WARDS 6 SEPTEMBER 2013 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com .local cuisine SEATAC 20402 International Blvd 206-592-5928 TUKWILA 17250 Southcenter Parkway 206-575-0330 Yum. tukwila's Sister's gifts on display BY LOUISE JONES -BROWN Many Washington state cities, ports, chambers of commerce, schools and other organizations have devel- oped "sister" relationships. The State of Washington began a sister -state relationship with Hyogo Prefecture in Japan and the 50 -year anniversary was commemmorated with a ceremo- ny last month in Olympia. There are more than 50 cities that participate in Washington's "sister" relationships. The City of Tukwila passed a reso- lution on Nov. 19, 1979, establishing a formal affiliation with Ikawa-cho, Japan. This program is intended to foster international peace, harmony and goodwill through understanding and tolerance with special focus on youth and education. A Sister City Committee was formed in 1984 to assist and plan for Sister City events. Citizens from Ikawa have made sev- eral visits to Tukwila and stayed with families in the area. Tukwila city of- ficials and residents have been able to visit Japan many times over the last 34 years. In March of 2006, Ikawa merged with five other cities to form the new city of Miyoshi. The alliance was con- tinued with Miyoshi based on the relationship between Ikawa and Tuk- wila. The Sister Cities program has proven to be an enjoyable and enrich- ing program for the community of Tukwila. On Sunday, Sept. 15, the Tukwila Historical Society commemorated the grand opening of the Tukwila Jap- anese Sister City Exhibit with a silent auction and reception. This exhibit contains many of the gifts that were presented during the multiple visits between the three cities and will be housed at the Tukwila Heritage and Cultural Center. The current plans are to have this exhibit and others open to the public on the first Satur- day of each month. The historical society will hold its first public open house, 1 p.m. -5 p.m. This hand - painted ceramic vase is one of the many gifts on dis- play at the Tukwila Heritage and Cultural Center. Tukwila Historical Society on Oct. 5, at the museum, 14475 59th Ave. S. It's also a chance to see the Sis- ter City collection. For more information regarding this exhibit and about the Tukwila Historical Society, call the center at 206-244-4478 (HIST). The society will next meet at 7 p.m., Sept. 19, at the center. Tukwila's Story is written by Louise Jones -Brown, who is acting director of the Tukwila Heritage and Cultural Center and treasurer for the Tukwila Historical Society. For hours and ar- rangements for a tour, call 206/244 - HIST or email: tukwilaheritagectr@ tukwilahistory.org. SATURDAY SEPT 21sT' PUCK DROP AT 7:05pm ARRIVE EARLY FOR"T-BI PARTY ON THE PLAZA - FOOD x MUSIC x BEER GARDEN FOR TICKETS CALL: 253-239-7825 SEATTLETHUNDERBIRDS.COM REPORTER KENT www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » SEPTEMBER 2013 Tukwila School District #406 2013-14 school year calendar Apologies for the later -than -usual school -year calendar, but dates were in flux until the district and teachers association approved a final contract agreement in late August. A printable, one-page version of the calendar is online at www.tukwila.wednet.edu. Please check the online calendar throughout the school year as dates are subject to change due to inclement weather and other emergencies. Key dates: Sept. 4: First day of school September Smart Wednesdays: 11, 18, 25 Oct. 11: No school (optional certificated staff professional development) October Smart Wednesdays: 2, 23, 30" Nov. 11: No school (Veterans Day) Nov. 12-14: Early release for conferences Nov. 27: Early release Nov. 28-29: No school (Thanksgiving holiday) November Smart Wednesdays: 6" Dec. 23 -Jan. 3: No school (winter break) December Smart Wednesdays: 4, 11, 18* Jan. 20: No school (Martin Luther King Jr. Day) Jan. 27: No school (teacher prep optional) January Smart Wednesdays: 8, 15" Feb. 1 7: No school (Presidents Day) Feb. 18: No school (mid -winter break) February Smart Wednesdays: 5,12, 26* March 19: Early release for elementary conferences (all students on early release; half-day professional development for secondary certificated staff) March Smart Wednesdays: 5, 12, 26" April 7-11: No school (spring break) April Smart Wednesdays: 2, 16, 23 May 23: No school OR snow make-up day if needed May 26: No school (Memorial Day) May 28: Early release for secondary conferences (all students on early release; half-day professional development for elementary certificated staff) May Smart Wednesdays: 14,21 June 17: Last day of school June 18: No school OR snow make-up day if needed June Smart Wednesdays: 4, 11* "All schools begin LS S hours after the normal start time on Smart Wednesdays to allow for staff training and collaboration. See more school news on pages 10-11 Top Achievement Growth Tukwila School District had some of the biggest growth statewide in third-grade math and reading on this year's Measurements of Stu- dent Progress (MSP). Overall, our third -graders meeting standard increased about 19 percentage points in reading and 13 percent- age points in math. As impressively, Cascade View Elementary's English Language Learners (ELL) not only significantly outperformed the av- erage for ELL students across the state (by more than 30 percentage points) but also outperformed the average for all students in math; the vast majority of other schools statewide that can claim such a feat had ELL populations of 20 percent or less, compared to Cascade View's ELL population, which fluctuates be- tween 62 and 70 percent. Wow! Several factors likely contributed to the achievement growth in our elementary schools. First, a daily intervention model ensures that all students receive tailored math and literacy instruction, targeted to meet their individual needs. Extend- ing this model, ELL students can ac- cess before- and after-school and summer intervention support. Also, recently -adopted curriculum taught with fidelity in classrooms has helped students consistently build knowledge from year to year. For instance, last year's third -graders were the first class to have used the new math curriculum since entering as kindergartners. Upperclassmen Armen Papyan, Aden Bahta, Elijah Hawkins, and Yoshio Sanchez welcome freshmen during Foster High's registration as part of the Ignite program. Ignite pairs incoming students with upperclassmen to welcome them to campus, answer questions, and serve as positive role models. Pay for school meals online: FREE and SIMPLE to USE! Did you once again forget to send your hungry student to school with a check for lunch? No worries! You can now directly add money to your stu- dent's food -service account online. It's quick, easy, secure, and there is no added fee. Accepted forms of pay- ment include Discover, VISA, Master- Card, and debit. To check your stu- dent's account balance and add funds: • Go to www.tukwila.wednet. edu and log in to Skyward Parent Access via the Parent Resources menu on the bottom right (con- tact your school's main office if you cannot log in). • Select "Food Service" from the left navigation menu. • View balance and select "Make Online Payment." • Follow the instructions to select your students, enter a payment amount, and be redirected to the secure payment site, which is ran through RevTrak. You will need enter your email address for account purposes the first time you pay. If you have questions or run into logistical trouble, please contact your student's main office. 1 8 SEPTEMBER 2013 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com City of Tukwila • 6200 Southcenter Boulevard • Tukwila, WA 98188 • 206-433-1800 • Online: TukwilaWA.gov MAYOR: Jim Haggerton COUNCIL PRESIDENT: Kathy Hougardy www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » SEPTEMBER 2013 9 COUNCIL MEMBERS: Joe Duffle • Dennis Robertson • Allan Ekberg Verna Seal • De'Sean Quinn • Kate Kruller TUKWILA CITY PAGES Be a litter picker! Help the Tukwila International Boulevard Action Committee clean up on Saturday, September 28 at 9:OOAM - meet in the Bartell's parking lot The city of opportunity _44, I have never been more proud of our City than I was on August 27, 2013, when a major multi -jurisdictional law enforcement action took place on Tukwila International Boulevard (TIB). This operation resulted in the seizure of three hotels, the execution of Federal and State warrants and subsequent arrests, and the closure of these properties. The City also responded with assistance - including temporary housing, food and other needed services - to those uninvolved adults and children adversely impacted as a result of this action. TIB crosses through one of the City's largest residential neighborhoods. Its revitalization and improvement is an integral component of our Strategic Plan goals: > A community of inviting neighborhoods and vibrant business districts > A solid foundation for all Tukwila residents > A diverse and regionally competitive economy > A high performing and effective organization > A positive community identity and image Thank you to the Tukwila Police Department, other municipalities and community orga- nizations, City staff, the many Federal agencies, and everyone who took a front-line role in the event or worked behind the scenes to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Feedback from businesses, property owners, and people who live and work in the neigh- borhood - as well as the community at large - has been overwhelming and very positive. As shown to the right, many positive changes are happening in our City, like Tukwila Vil- lage, the Urban Renewal project, and the Crime Reduction Initiative. Our highest priority for 2013 has been crime reduction, and these efforts are going to have significant and long-lasting, positive effects on Tukwila - the city of opportunity, the community of choice. Jim Haggerton, Mayor Comments from City Councilmembers regarding changes taking place in Tukwila "People have been afraid of the streets for too long. Soon, our community - most impor- tantly, our kids - will feel safe and be proud to call Tukwila home. Together we're changing things. I truly believe that united we stand, di- vided we fall." -Joe Duffle "I've been truly impressed by the City's under- standing of the need for long term commit- ment to making our City the safest place in the Pacific Northwest. Public safety is the first and most important step for creating inviting and vibrant residential neighborhoods and business districts." - Dennis Robertson "I am very proud of the City and the partner- ships that have been formed to collaborate, cooperate and accomplish a number of things that will positively impact our community" - Allan Ekberg "We are seeing change happen. Author Mal- colm Gladwell defined the tipping point as ".. . that magic moment when an idea, trend, or social behavior crosses a threshold, tips, and spreads like wildfire." I think we are at our "tipping point." I look forward to more good things to come!" - Verna Seal "One way the Council has shown its commit- ment to the Strategic Plan is by support of the City's multi -faceted approach to improve the neighborhoods along TIB." - Kathy Hougardy "It's a full City effort. I appreciate the role we played as policy maker's in setting the budget priorities last year towards efforts supporting public safety" - De'Sean Quinn "This is the dawn of a new day. Tukwila is making significant steps toward a bright future envisioned by our citizens. The people who live here fully plan to continue the momentum in our community to make Tukwila a place others yearn to visit, build a business, or stay for a lifetime." - Kate Kruller Tu�inrila�i�li��ks��etter �mmunity� City of Tukwila Strategic Plan Early in 2012, the City began a process of outreach, analysis, discussion and consensus building which ultimately resulted in the City's Strategic Plan. Ad- opted by the Council on December 10, 2012, the Plan is proving to be com- pelling enough to unite the community and practical enough to be realized. The intent of the Strategic Plan is to guide the City's actions and investments for the next five to ten years. It is grounded in an ambitious view of the future, and identifies Tukwila's role in achieving its mission and fulfilling the com- munity vision as "the city of opportunity, the community of choice." Our Plan doesn't map out a turn -by -turn path forward for the community. In- stead, it provides direction and structure for ongoing conversations about what the City and its partners should do to make a better community. Guided by the Plan's Goals and the City's budget, City leaders, City staff and the community as a whole will focus on an- swering a simple question: what do we need to do now to advance toward our shared Vision and Goals? PR71111 lr7 The city of opportunity, Me community of choice, City Mission To provide superior services that support a safe, inviting and healthy environment for our residents, businesses and guests Crime Reduction Initiative The City's 2013-2014 Biennial Budget added significant funding to address crime reduction initiatives recommended by the Police Department. This comprehensive approach to reduce crime and improve public safety includ- ed funding to focus on hot spots and increase support for investigations. Specifically, the budget included five new Police Department employees, investments in the Urban Renewal Area, and proactive code enforcement. The Police Department's strategies for reducing crime include: targeting hot spots and key offenders, which helps ensure that officers are patrolling the right areas and tracking repeat offenders; strengthening investigations and making timely arrests, which improves the Department's ability to identify and arrest criminals in a timely manner; and increasing accessibility, visibil- ity and responsiveness, which helps to ensure that officers are always within reach and able to respond as quickly as possible whenever they are needed. 2013 City Priorities 1 Each year, City Council and staff identify priorities and actions to bring Tukwila closer to realizing the Strategic Plan's vision and goals. The six priorities for 2013: O Crime reduction along Tukwila International Boulevard (TIB) @ An improved environment for community livability 4 Strengthened financial fundamentals O Updated plans and policies aligned with the Community's Vision © Improved access to City services and decision-making O Shared commitment by Council, staff and partners to the Community's Vision Addressing Priority #1 Ongoing efforts by City depart- ments to reduce crime along TIB include increased Police presence; breaking ground on the Tukwila Village project; facilitating other desired development; and improv- ing the appearance of the TIB area by increasing bus shelter cleaning, litter pickup, and graffiti removal. Taking Back OUR Boulevard On August 27, 2013, more than 400 law enforcement and agency per- sonnel searched and seized three motels on Tukwila International Boulevard as a result of a year- long investigation of criminal activ- ity. The three motels are currently under custody of the United States Marshals Service. A total of 19 arrests were made at the three motels, and no injuries were sustained during the seizure operation. The City provided short- term assistance to 31 adults and 11 children that were displaced from housing as a result of these circum- stances. An informational video ex- plaining the collaboration, planning and logistics of this operation can found on the City's website. Non -emergency Services Starting Monday, September 16, Tukwila citizens have a new phone number to call for reporting a NON- EMERGENCY incident which has occurred in Tukwila: 206-241-2121. Use this number to report inci- dents such as parking complaints, or crimes after the fact where the suspect is gone, in addition to other non -urgent issues. Please continue to call 911 in ANY of the followin: circumstances: • Serious medical emergencies • Fire or crime in progress • Other dangerous and/or life-threatening situation • Suspicious activity in progress • Fear for your safety or that of others Not sure whether your situation con- stitutes an emergency? Call 911. = t Learn rnoe at Tukwila .gov Community Vision The city of opportunity, The community of choice i Urban Renewal Area Adopted by Council in 2000, the City's urban renewal area is gener- ally bounded by South 140th Street, 42nd Avenue South, South 146th Street, and 37th Avenue South. Washington State's community re- newal law (RCW 35.81) allows mu- nicipalities to purchase, redevelop and sell properties in blighted areas - using eminent domain to acquire the properties at fair market value to the property owners - in order to revive those areas for public benefit. On April 22, 2013, the City Council approved an ordinance authoriz- ing the City to use condemnation, if necessary, to purchase up to seven specific properties in Tukwila's ur- ban renewal area as a way of im- proving neighborhood safety and revitalizing the area. These seven properties can maximize the finan- cial feasibility of the urban renewal project and catalyze new develop- ment. City staff is currently evaluating the properties, and will be returning to the City Council with options for fur- ther action. Tukwila Village The City has worked for the creation of a special place in the heart of a neigh- borhood - Tukwila Village. Tukwila owns six acres in a prime location zoned for a mixed-use, neighborhood center. Plans include a King County Library branch, the City's police neighborhood resource center, and a plaza/park, in combination with other retail, office, live/work or residential spaces. The Tukwila Village site is located at the intersection of Tukwila International Boulevard and S. 144th Street, and within 10 minutes of downtown Seattle, 5 minutes to SeaTac Airport, and walking distance to Tukwila's light rail station. In December 2012, the Council approved a Development Agreement for the project. Project design is scheduled to be completed in 2013, with construc- tion starting in early 2014. The first phase is scheduled to open in early 2015, the second phase in summer 2015, and the third and final phase in 2016. 1 0 ( SEPTEMBER 2013 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com Tukwila School District #406 SEPTEMBER 201 3 Show you CARE by donating clothes A significant event in Tukwila schools is CARE (Clothes are Real- ly Expensive) Night, where families come to receive free new and gently -used apparel, including warm coats and shoes for the winter. Hundreds of families rely on this service! Please help us by donating any unwanted clothing in your household (hats, shirts, pants, socks, gloves—you name it, we can use it, ANY SIZE, ANY CLOTHING ITEMS, FOR ALL AGES). CARE Night donations are needed by mid-October. Please bring donations to any Tukwila elementary school: • Cascade View, 13601 32nd Ave. S. • Thorndyke, 4415 S 150th St. • Tukwila, 5939 South 149th St. Showalter library brings the world to students! Showalter Middle School teacher librarian Gladys Fox is an expert at finding resources to connect students with information ... and now she is becoming quite the expert re- source herself! In Au- gust, she was featured in "VOYA," the national magazine for librarians serving young adults, for a cutting-edge literacy project. She was one of nine people in the state to win a $10,000 technology grant in 2011, which she used to purchase iPads and equipment to allow English Language Learners to create their own electronic books. The students initially worked on basic fluency by using e -books with embedded interactive components, such as a recorder to add their own voices reading the stories. After much practice writing and using dif- ferent iPad production applications, they were able to author their own e -books with original audio record- ings, pictures, and artwork. Significantly, each student's e - book showcased his or her culture and personal life experiences. So Librarian Gladys Fox not only did the project build literacy and tech- nology skills, it bred self- confidence as students were able to share their unique journeys and con- nect with each other. A win -win-win overall! The e -books became another rich component in Ms. Fox's global library at the middle school. She has previously been awarded three separate educator Fulbright scholarships, sending her to research in japan, Cyprus, Tur- key, Mongolia, and New Zealand during her summer breaks. On each trip, she connected with local book distributors, authors, and histori- ans, and she returned to Showalter with artifacts and texts to bring to life lessons about each region. And what's more, her enthusiasm is spreading: librarians at other dis- trict schools are also looking for in- novative ways to incorporate tech- nology. Cascade View Elementary's librarian, for example, just received a state grant to purchase 10 iPads. To learn more about the e -book project, visit Ms. Fox's online journal at http://ipadquest.blogspot.com. Reading Buddies: Elementary students and teens needed! King County's Foster Library has started a new Book Buddies program: Children in kindergarten through fourth-grade are invited to stop by the library (4060 S. 144th St., next to Foster High) for a 20 -minute reading session with a trained teenager anytime between 2 and 4 p.m. every Friday through October. Younger buddies will not only gain reading skills but also learn that books can be cool from their older buddies! The library is hoping to expand its teen volunteers to offer the program daily. For more infor- mation or to volunteer as a teen Buddy, contact Rachel McDonald at rmmcdonald@kcls.org. The hottest ticket in town: BULLDOG ATHLETICS We have your hometown, purple -and -white entertainment covered this sports season. Head to Foster High School, 4242 S. 144th St., (unless otherwise noted) to show your Bulldog pride! The complete schedule, including away competitions, is at www.tukwila.wednet.edu. Friday, Sept. 20: Varsity football v. Renton, 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 23: junior varsity boys tennis v. Highline, 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25: Varsity boys tennis v. Evergreen, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26: Varsity girls swimming v. Kennedy Catholic City of Tukwila Pool, 4414 144th St.), 3 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26: Varsity boys tennis v. Lindbergh, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26: Boys and girls cross country v. Kennedy Catholic (location TBD), 3:30-4:30 p.m. starts Thursday, Sept. 26: Volleyball v. Renton, 5:30 p.m. junior varsity, 7 p.m. varsity Thursday, Sept. 26: Varsity girls soccer v. Hazen, 7:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 30: junior varsity football v. Highline, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1: Varsity girls and boys golf v. Renton and Lindbergh (Foster Golf Links, 13500 Interurban Ave. S.), 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1: Volleyball v. Highline, 5:30 p.m. junior varsity, 7 p.m. varsity Wednesday, Oct. 2: Junior varsity boys tennis v. Kennedy Catholic, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3: Boys and girls cross country v. Hazen (North SeaTac Park, S. 128th St. and 20th Ave. S.), 3:30-4:30 p.m. starts Friday, Oct. 4: Varsity boys tennis v. Tyee, 3:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4: Varsity football v. Lindbergh, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8: Varsity girls soccer v. Evergreen, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 9: junior varsity boys tennis v. Hazen, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10: Varsity girls soccer v. Lindbergh, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11: Varsity boys tennis v. Renton, 3:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 14: Junior varsity football v. Kennedy Catholic, 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 16: Varsity boys tennis v. Highline, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17: Junior varsity boys tennis v. Evergreen, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17: Girls and boys golf v. Highline (Foster Golf Links, 13500 Interurban Ave. S.), 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17: Volleyball v. Hazen, 5:30 p.m. junior varsity, 7 p.m. varsity Thursday, Oct. 17: Varsity girls soccer v. Tyee, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18: Varsity football v. Evergreen, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24: Varsity girls swimming v. Highline, Evergreen, and Tyee (City of Tukwila Pool, 4414 144th St.), 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24: Varsity girls soccer v. Renton, 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 28: junior varsity football v. Hazen, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 29: Volleyball v. Evergreen, 5:30 p.m. junior varsity, 7 p.m. varsity Tuesday, Oct. 29: Varsity girls soccer v. Highline, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov 1: Varsity football v. TBD, 7 p.m. Stay tuned for post -season playoff information! "Who can show me what respect looks like?" math teacher Kevin Henley asked his Showalter students on the first day of school as they covered be- havior expectations. 1 Bhutanese students at Foster High School have formed a new club, Bhutanese Youth Resource Center. Submitted Bhutanese youth form club Bhutanese youth in Tukwila have formed a club whose mission is to prevent them from getting involved in anything negative and to start new things, says a co-founder. The club is called "Bhutanese Youth Re- source Center" and will meet Saturdays in Tukwila. The club formed "to teach our youth and let them share out their thoughts about our identity," said Tek Kafle, a club co-founder and graduate of Foster High School. That effort is crucial, he said, because the Tukwila community "still doesn't know who we are" and to promote culture. The membership, expected to be about 50 youth who all attend Foster, will focus on career building, making sure Bhutanese youth are in the right track to graduation and to college, he said. The members will speak out for their community, participate in sports to con- nect to other youths and share community success videos. www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » SEPTEMBER 2013 11 School contracts approved Tukwila School District teachers and support staff have approved new two- year contracts. The employees are rep- resented by the Tukwila Education Association and Tukwila Classified Associa- tion. The contract includes ad- ditional compensation and professional development time and a new half day. The new contract pro- vides, in part: • A 2 percent salary in- crease for each contract year. • An early release day in November that will allow teachers to plan for confer- ences and grades. A separate mutual agree- ment calls for a partnership between the district and as- sociation as schools imple- ment the new principal and teacher evaluation system this school year. Finding the Connection ice19 Providing Premier Memory Care Day Stay & Short Tenn Also Available Call Today For A Tour WEATHEIV IN\ 253-630-7496 15101 SE 272nd St., Kent, WA 98042 Close to Hwy 18 on Kent-Kangley Tukwila School District #406 SEPTEMBER 201 3 Nutrition News By Craig Huckins, Food Service Director The Tukwila School District believes strongly that full stomachs help children learn! In fact, research has shown that there is a crucial rela- tionship between nutri- tion and academic per- formance. So our goal in Food Services is to set up our students for success every day by: 1. Offering high quality, nutritional food. All of our meals contain no trans -fat and feature fresh, local fruits and vegetables. And the deep fryer—forget about it! Our menus exceed USDA specifica- tions for whole grains, lean pro- teins, and reduced sugar and so- dium levels. Students are invited to supplement their meal at the fruit and veggie bar, which has locally grown (when seasonally available), nutrient -rich, deeply colored goodies including beans and legumes. 2. Offering food kids will actually eat. Student input is they key! We illaitt Mr. VeggieFruit sez bON'T FORGET! you mac wee ONE FRUIT and/or VEGETABLE or boon regularly ask for input and feed- back. By giving students a voice— and a choice—in what appears on the menu, we are able to cater to their tastes and provide a larger variety of foods. Last year, for in- stance, we added four new salads (chicken Caesar, Oriental chick- en, chef, and fruit/granola yo- gurt parfaits) after Showalter and Foster students asked for them. As all parents know, kids can be pretty choosy and they don't al- ways make the best choices. We do our best to look for new and interesting ways to meet the deli- cate balance between nutrition... and taste buds. Beyond the school years, my ultimate hope is that our graduates will leave here with all the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life—and that includes eating for health and nutrition. We are serving up that lesson every day in the cafeteria! Bon appetit! f Tukwila Elementary fourth -grader Dylan Ngo gives his brain a post -summer workout filling in a math worksheet in Mrs. Graves' class the first day of school. school connection is presented by the Tukwila School District Tukwila School District #406 www.tukwila.wednet.edu 206.901.8000 4640 South 144th Street, Tukwila, WA 98168 Board of Directors: Mark Wahlstrom, President 206.243.9855 Steve Mullet, Vice -President 206.244.7553 Mary Fertakis 206.767.6053. Dave Larson 206.244.2313 Alicia Waterton 206.248.4302 Superintendent: Dr. Nancy Coogan 206 901-8006 1 2 SEPTEMBER 2013 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com Quinn learns from Tukwila for new post BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@ TUKWILAREPORTER.COM Tukwila is a social and political classroom for City Council member De'Sean Quinn. "Tukwila is definitely a mentor," Quinn said, with his experiences on the council and in the commu- nity helping to inform how he molds his political views and helps his constituents. In turn at the state level the city and its residents have their voices heard on the Washington State Com- mission on African Ameri- can Affairs, to which Quinn was appointed this summer by Gov. Jay Inslee. Quinn, 41, has had many mentors in his public-ser- vice career, from Richard McGiver on the Seattle City Council, to former King County Executive Ron Sims, to his parents Hen- derson and Brenda Quinn. He has a close relation- ship with Larry Gossett, a King County Council member from Seattle who was one of the leaders in the successful effort to re- name King County after civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Through them and through his own efforts in community relations for the county, Quinn says he has strong ties to the Afri- can-American community throughout King County For more than 10 years, he's been building ties to Tukwila. He and his wife Nicole and their son Kel- len, 5, live near Tukwila International Boulevard. Tukwila's schools and pub- lic safety are important to him. He is running unop- posed for a second term on the City Council. Serving on the state com- mission is another chance to address the many issues that concern him. He is "a big networking person" and an optimist, he said. In South King County City Council member De'Sean Quinn has been appointed to the Washington State Commission on African American Affairs. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter there are a high rate of obe- sity and a lack of adequate nutrition, he said. Access to primary health care is a priority, because treatment at the emergency room rather than in a doctor's of- fice costs everyone, he said. "Education is a real pas- sion of mine in the city, FREE Bingo Imperial Bingo Connection 3100 East Valley Rd. Renton 425-656-5257 Wednesday - Thursday - Friday - Saturday - Sunday FREE Bingo All Saturdays in September Buy Morning = Pay $150 Play Afternoon FREE = Pay $125 Buy 11 AM Session Regular Games Play Same FREE For 2:30 Session Includes Machines and Paper Includes Power Ball + Cash Cow www.ibcbingo.com whether it's the immigrant population or the African- American population; he said. He sees the need for more partnerships between the Tukwila School District and the city to find com- munity-based solutions through pooled resources and shared experiences. He's working with School Board member Dave Lar- son to identify a legislative issue the city and school district could champion in the state Legislature to- gether. "I really believe that in order for us to succeed, we need a strong effective school district;' he said. He'd also like to see more collaboration with the Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce to help demonstrate a sense of community. Quinn serves as a board member for Seattle -based OneAmerica, an organi- zation that advocates for immigrants and refugees nationwide. The issues are important in Tukwila, which is a receiving site for immigrants and refugees, he said, helping to make the city arguably the most diverse community in the country. He points to the efforts by fellow City Council member Dennis Robertson to start an affordable hous- ing inspection program in Tukwila. During the discussions, Quinn sug- gested inspections for all affordable housing, not just apartments. What was found were "deplorable health condi- tions; with immigrant families living with rats and mold, he said. "I couldn't even imagine living in those apartments;' he said, and those who speak Eng- lish as a second language aren't going to complain. As a result of the inspec- tions, the city has seen "sig- nificant improvement" in the condition of affordable housing, he said. The city also has established com- munity liaisons to help disseminate information to different community groups. And then there's Tukwila International Boulevard. His focus in his first coun- cil election was to clean up the highway, he said. Many people in the city recog- nize that some high -crime issues are related to short- term motels on Highway 99, he said. Tracking crime at the motels "is smart public policy' he said, which last month resulted in the sei- zure of three of the motels. "People are just funda- mentally tired of the crime on International Boule- vard," he said. Quinn has always planned a career in politics. He wants to continue his work in Tukwila. "I think we are just on the cusp of really doing great things in the city; he said. The real action in gov- ernment is at the local level, he said. "You can see your direct impacts on people's lives in the short term;' he said. City to celebrate culture The City of Tukwila is celebrating the community's diversity at a Taste of Tuk- wila, a Community Heritage and Culture Celebration, on Sept. 20. The event is 3 p.m. -7 p.m. at Foster High School, 4242 S. 144th St., Tukwila. The celebration will feature music, dance, art and food from around the world. Free food sampling includes: • Project Feast - Kenyan style beef and vegetarian samosas, Sudanese kunafa des- sert • California Pizza Kitchen - Thai crunch salad bites • Taqueria La Perilita - Tacos and tama- les • Global to Local - Samples from around the world • Yamada Teriyaki - Yakisoba • Billy Baroo's - Chicken Tika Skewers Special performances: • 3:10 p.m. - SoulBreakerZ Krew • 3:30 p.m. - Unleash the Brilliance • 4 p.m. - Mariachi Mexico • 5 p.m. - Orgullo Hispano • 5:15 p.m. - Mariachi Mexico • 6:15 p.m. - Ce Atl Tonallia There will be a special documentary screening of "Latinos: The Changing Face of Washington" at 6:30 p.m. at the Foster Performing Arts Center, 6:30 p.m. KCTS 9's Enrique Cerna, the son of Mexican im- migrants, examines the history of Latinos in Washington and how their dramatic population growth is bringing change to politics, education, immigration and en- trepreneurship in the state. There will also be two Henna artists, and hands-on art projects for kids. The City of Tukwila staff will be at the event handing out information about pro- grams and services available to citizens, including Tukwila Police, Tukwila Human Service Department, Tukwila Parks & Rec- reation, the Tukwila City Council and the Tukwila Equity & Diversity Commission. Representatives from the Global to Local South King County Health Initiative will also be on hand with information about healthy cooking classes, fitness demos and other health resource information. The celebration is sponsored by the City of Tukwila, Cascade Water Alliance, 4Cul- ture and the Tukwila School District. www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » SEPTEMBER 2013 13 Three motels seized on International Blvd. BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM The City of Tukwila is continuing to consider the pur- chase of seven properties on Tukwila International Bou- levard, following the federal seizure of three motels in August. In doing so, city staff is following the City Council's di- rection of April 22 to use condemnation, if necessary, to buy the seven properties as a way to improve safety and re- vitalize the neighborhood, according to city spokeswoman Kimberly Matej. "The city is committed to making neighborhoods more inviting and its business districts more vibrant," Matej said. Two of seized mo- tels, Great Bear Motor Inn and Bou- levard Motel, are two of the seven, which also include the Spruce Motel, Sam's Smoke Shop, Super Pawn Center, Jet seizurevideo The City of Tukwila has produced a video of the seizure of the three motels on Tukwila International Boulevard, featuring TV video and explanations of the seizure and its aftermath. The video, titled "Taking Back Our Boulevard,"is available online at the city website, www. tukwilawa.gov. Plans also call for airing the video on the city's Channel 21. Inn Motel and Knight's Inn. The third seized motel, the Traveler's Choice motel, is not one of the seven but was still seized under a federal search warrant that detailed drug sales and prostitution at all three motels. Today fences topped with barbed wire surround the motels and a fourth business on International Boulevard, following the raid the morning of Aug. 27 by hundreds of law enforcement personnel. Multiple agencies served search warrants following a Spend public dollars wisely on [ CHAMBER from page 4] state. This meant the South Sound region was finally given the attention it de- serves because of the over- all statewide economic im- pact. We appreciate all of the work that was done this session and were frustrated that agreement could not be reached. However, we are hopeful that our legisla- tors and those from around the state will come together and put together a plan that works to build our state's economy. The transportation plan, as it currently stands, still needs some work. We need to make sure the pub- lic is assured their dollars are being spent wisely and funded projects will have tangible benefit for the state. In addition, we need to make sure we do not partially fund projects with the promise of "completion later." The SR 509, SR 167, Federal Way Triangle and I-405 projects have been identified as necessary for the state's economy, but the economic benefit can only be realized with comple- tion. Our state's businesses and citizens need to be able to count on the reduced Hearing set on industrial signs The Tukwila City Council will hold a public hearing Sept. 23 on signage in industrial zones. The hearing is at 7 p.m. in the council's chambers, City Hall, 6200 Southcenter Parkway, Tukwila. Those who can't attend the hearing can submit written testimony until 5 p.m. Sept. 23 to the City Clerk's Office. Hundreds of police personnel descended on three motels Aug. 27 on Tukwila International Boulevard to shut them down. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter year-long investigation into drug sales and prostitution at the motels. Four owners or managers of the boarded -up motels were arrested, along with more than a dozen others as part of the seizure. The motels now will go through a federal forfeiture process, which will take months. Temporary housing was found by the City of Tukwila and social service agencies for 34 adults and 11 children who lived in the motels. Support for the seizure of the three motels, where po- lice have responded hundreds of times over the years, was overwhelming. "We have been virtually deluged with phone calls and emails to City Hall," Mayor Jim Haggerton said during an already -scheduled tour after the raid for City Council members and community leaders of the Tukwila Village site nearby. "I would say that 99.9 percent of those calls were very positive," Haggerton said. The three motels are a short distance from Foster High School and Showalter Middle School on South 144th Street. "Student safety and well-being is a top priority for us, so we absolutely support law enforcement's efforts to stop any and all illegal activity," said Tukwila School Superinten- transportation congestion and freight mo- bility in order to plan for the future. Carol Kolson is president and CEO of the Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce, which includes Tukwila, Burien, Des Moines and SeaTac. CASCADE MEMORIAL low cost cremation & funerals $495 Simple Cremation $895 Direct Burial 425.641.6100 CascadeMemoria1.com Affordable Wills Simple Will $200.00 Trust Will for minor children $250.00 Community Prop. Agreement $150.00 Durable Power of Attorney $100.00 Directive to Physician $100.00 Mention this ad for package discount. MOGREN, GLESSNER & ROTI, P.S. Attorneys at Law 15 So. Grady Way, 100 Evergreen Building, Renton, WA 98057 (425) 255-4542 • www.mgrlaw.com dent Nancy Coogan in a statement, in which she thanked the police agencies for their actions. "Our schools are zero -tolerance zones, and we need the same expectation to extend throughout Tukwila to keep our children safe and healthy; she said. Signs in red, white and blue make it clear the properties are under the control of the U.S. Marshal's Office, which has constant security at the properties. Federal and city officials pointed out that part of the planning for the raid was a commitment to housing and food assistance to the displaced families or individuals not tied to criminal activity. The City of Tukwila arranged housing and food for those individuals screened first by the Police Department and then by the city's human services staff, Haggerton said. Some of the displaced children also attend Tukwila schools. "We have people working on the ongoing needs of those people so that nothing is overlooked;' Haggerton said. Tukwila's assistant police chief Bruce Linton said there have been numerous indications, from signs to emails to honking horns, that the community appreciates the police action. "I haven't heard any negative repercussions as a result of the operation;' he said. The Police Department will continue its Crime Reduc- tion Initiative that is designed to reduce criminal activity on the boulevard and throughout the city, he said. Continuing coverage of the seizure of three motels on Tukwila International Boulvevard is available at tukwilare- por ter. com TO ADVERTISE YOUR PLACE OF WORSHIP Please call Ellen 425-255-3484 Ext. 1050 FOSTER-TUKWILA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 14401 56th Ave S MEN'S FRATERNITY BEGINS Thursday, September 19, 7:00 pm- Fall Sunday Schedule: [, CE 9:00 am; Worship 10:30 am 206-243-4455 • www.ftpc.org 719261 T rfe Hi-tliiers -1-41,7` MiisllldI Theatre Presents 1 Ill I iga LIReK TNP. Musical Director: Kathleen Edwards Musical Director: RJ Tancioco Choregorapher: Daniel Cruz September 7, 8,14,15, 21, 22 Saturdays 7:30 • Sundays 1:30 Highline Performing Arts Center 401 S. 152nd • Burien, WA 98148 SFNH s presented throughspedal arrangemenrwrth Musehearer Inlemanonai(MT All amhorad performance n ager a is are also su pplied by MI1421 We454ih Sheet, N ew Yor&, NY 1 W19 • phone. 12 541468 • Fax 212397 468, tents aid 6nfn 4rrwrri hi-liners.org n 14 SEPTEMBER 2013 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com tu kwi lasports These Foster seniors, standing with the coaches at Foster Stadium, have played soccer at Foster for four years. From left are: assistant coach Ann Broom, players Lorena Ramirez, Nadia Merino, Andrea O'Neil, Jessica Vilai, Denise Salgado, Amna Hadzihasanovic, Sierra Parsons, Dulce Petsana and head coach Nasir Tura. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter Join us as we hold autumn at bay with our annual Open House event featuring: • Tastes of Summer prepared by Executive Chef Chuck Chalfant • A Free CD of summer music • Your chance to win up to $1,000 in prizes including a night in Seattle at the Renaissance Hotel, dinner downtown and passes to Seattle attractions as well as gift certificates to local restaurants. See a variety of homes and apartments, tour our beautiful grounds, enjoy great summer fare, hear lively music and visit with residents and community partners for helpful information on downsizing, real estate and move coordination. Mark your calendar for a groovy time at Wesley Homes! learn more at wesleyhomes.org for people who love IifeTM pn� First' Q Wesley Homes is a not-for-profit organization offering retirement communities and home health services for older adults. It is affiliated ...-= with the Pacific Northwest Conference of the United Methodist Church. Wesley Homes Des Moines 816 S. 216th St. Des Moines Sunday, September 29th 1:00 p.m. — 4:00 p.m. 855.445.8827 (toll-free) RSVP to be entered into a special drawing for a $50 gift certificate to Anthony's Homeport Restaurant. WESLEY HOMES'"" The creative side of Foster girls soccer BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM Foster High's soccer coach Nasir Tura learned to play soccer kicking pieces of plastic around the streets of Nai- robi, Kenya, as a kid. Eventually, life brought him to Tukwila, where he gradu- ated from Foster in 2006. He was captain of the boys soc- cer team his junior and senior years. Today, he stands in Foster Stadium watching his girls soccer team prepare for a season he says "should be fun;' with 10 seniors and seven incoming freshmen, compared to one freshman last year. In all 22 girls turned out for the team. This is Turas third year as girls coach; he was Sea - mount Coach of the Year in2011. The Seamount season kicks off against Lindbergh High on Tuesday, Sept. 17, a match se- nior captain Sierra Parsons says is go- ing to be tough. But the team is ready and she's ex- cited. All the girls are really motivated;' she said. Tura has a prom- ise for the freshmen, if they remain on the team through- out their high school career and work consistently. "If they are here for those four years, I guarantee I can make them a college player;' he said, at least at the commu- nity -college level. Tura has extensive background as a player and coach, including semi -pro teams. For six years, he's coached the successful Foster boys soccer team, which has played at state and won the league title in 2007. Ann Broom has been the assistant girls coach for five years. She's seen the team develop and the style of play change. "There is a focus on individual creativity, and finesse within team chemistry;" she said. "Nasir wants the players loose, as though they are able to dance, which they are" Last year the girls made it to the playoffs but lost to the Sumner, the eventual state champion. "We had a great season, with different players peaking in performance until the end," Tura said. Parsons, Amna Hadzihasanovic, Andrea O'Neil and Lorena Ramirez are among his key returning players, he said. Parsons plays forward, but she said she'll play defense Senior captain Sierra Parsons sees a team of talented, motivated players. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter [ more SOCCER page 15] Bonding is key to success of team, says coach [ SOCCER from page 14] against the tough teams. Last year, the girls rafted, hiked and road bikes together and watched a Sounders match to help build team spirit. Every other Friday, they had a dinner and movie night. "The plan for this season is to do even more team bonding, because team chemistry will be the key for our success;' Tura FollowTukwila sports all through the month at to kwi la reporter.com. said. Having the Starfire soc- cer complex nearby with the Sounders and Seattle Reign has helped boost the team, too. "The atmosphere is conta- gious," he said. Tura said he'll do some re- building this year, because of the graduation of his seniors. He'll go out recruiting, espe- cially among the international communities at Foster. "It's OK for the girls to play soccer out here;' he said. "Girls can do anything." And sports, he said, is a way for girls to become involved in the community. Dean A. Radford can be reached at 425-244-3484, ext. 5150. www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » SEPTEMBER 2013 15 Seattle Stars in Tukwila The Seattle Stars Football Club will call the Tukwila area home as it returns to statewide competition as the fourth club in the Evergreen Premier Soccer League. The club is a semi-professional football club that played in 2011 in the American National Soccer League and that year won the con- ference title. The club also runs a youth pro- gram. Nasir Tura, Foster High School's soccer coach, is an assistant coach and scout for the team. "Seattle Stars FC want to join this league because it is the type of league that we were expecting to have in our area and also because we believe that it is a serious proj- ect and we want to do our part to make this happen," said Margarito Avila, one of the club's owners, in a news release. tukwila **** BESToFZO13 TUKWILA • SEATAC • DES MOINESAWS ARDS SPOTLIGHT Serving our Seniors in Tukwila, Burien & Des Moines! • Home health & hospice care • 24/7 skilled caregivers with awake night shift • Extensive activities program tailored to residents needs VOTED BEST SENIOR LIVING FACILITY art tukwila WINNER BESToF2O�3 Call us today & schedule a tour! 206-992-1271 13534 Macadam Rd, Tukwila 98168 THANKS FOR YOUR VOTES TUKWILA! ;r4 4 Are we the "Best Community Volunteers"? Well, we pride ourselves on being involved in the community. Through our Volunteer Tukwila program, participants have logged in hundreds of hours of volunteer time to keep Tukwila clean, help those in need, and provide fun, family -friendly events. WICKERT LAW OFFICE Thank you for voting my firm for Best Attorney in Tukwila! MAUREEN A. WICKERT Attorney at Law Elder Law • Estate Planning • Probate Medicaid Planning for Long Term Care Straightforward Discussions for Informed Decisions Complimentary Initial Consultation 206.931.6307 • wickertlaw@comcast.net www.wickertlawoffice.com 14900 Interurban Ave. S., Suite 271, PMB 66 • Tukwila, WA 98168 111111 NAELA tukwila WINNER BEST0F2013 reporter TUKWILA• SEATAC• DES 001011AWS ARDS, N. Law Anunf, Ne 865513 _r 4kat) J • • IS• ;CEO:A.:FY:. THOINWGA • • • .YRHILI •G•' DRD. OY.MES • THANK YD. .0 FOR VOTING SOUTHCENTER • • KID'S DENTISTRY. • BEST DENTAL. • OFFICE • tukwila WINNER reporter BESToF2013 TUKWILA SEPTA DES MOINES 's Shift into savings. 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Setting and meeting a goal for wise water use helps ensure a reliable water supply, keeps costs lower to ratepayers and allows more water to stay in streams. Wise water use today helps ensure future water reliability. During the past 10 years, residents who used water wisely helped save millions of gallons of water regionally. Your input is important! Cascade is asking for your help in setting water efficiency goals and determining how we can provide the water efficiency services that will help you save the most amount of water. Cascade Wise Water Use Survey There are many factors that affect the current costs of providing drinking water such as energy, construction, and infrastructure replacement. But together we can reduce the long-term cost of providing water by using water wisely today. Please take a moment to answer the following questions to help in our planning efforts. Thank you! 1. Are you willing to use water more efficiently now to ensure a reliable water supply for the future? 1 Yes 1 No Comments: 2. How often do you water your lawn in the summer? 3. Would you be willing to practice natural yard care (less grass, more hardy plants and shrubs, fewer chemical treatments) if you knew how? Yes 1 No Comments: Use the form to the right or go to www.cascadewater.org now to take a quick survey and help us help you save water today....and tomorrow. 4. If you have an automatic, in -ground sprinkler system, is it equipped with a rain shut-off device? Savvy Gardener Class Catalog - Fall 2013 Join us for September and October Savvy Gardener Classes! Fall is one of the best times to plant trees, shrubs and perennials. Learn more and register for classes at www.savingwater.org/savvygardener Cascade Water Alliance City of Bellevue City of Issaquah City of Kirkland City of Redmond 1 Yes 1 1 No Comments: 5. A typical household uses 200 — 300 gallons of water per day. If you could save up to 30 gallons per day by replacing old toilets and appliances, fixing leaks and carefully watering outdoors, would you do it? I Yes 1 I No Comments: 6. When you're in the market for new water -related appliances, like a toilet, clothes washer, or dishwasher, do you look for the WaterSense or Energy Star labels that indicate water use efficiency? Yes I I No Comments: City of Tukwila Skyway Water and Sewer District Sammamish Plateau Water and Sewer District 7. Do you think the drinking water you get from your tap is a good value? Yes 1 I No Comments: They Represent You 8. If you make decisions for a business, are you willing to undertake actions that could reduce your business's water use by five to 10 percent? Yes 1 I No Comments: Cascade Board Vice President: Jim Haggerton Mayor, City of Tukwila Cascade Board Alternate: Verna Seal City Councilmember, City of Tukwila Please provide any additional comments. Return your completed survey to: Cascade Water Alliance 520 112th Ave NE, Suite 400 Bellevue WA 98004 LiLike us on Facebook! Follow us on Twitter! cascadewater.org