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2015-10 Tukwila Reporter
SCHOOL CONNECTIONS: Tukwila School District update, page s 12-13 [ ht,Lwww.tukwilareportercom 2 ( OCTOBER 2015 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com Ethiopian immigrant to talk about experiences The King County Library System is of- fering the community a chance to listen and talk with local immigrants and their personal experiences in The Big Read pro- gram. Dinaw Mengestu, an Ethiopian -Amer- ican author and university writing faculty at Georgetown University and Brooklyn College, will make two appearances in Oc- tober. He's discuss his book, "The Beautiful Things That Heaven Bears," 7 p.m. -9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, at the Tukwila Comunity Center banquet hall, 12424 42nd Ave. S. This event will include a discussion, re- ception and book signing. A language in- terpreter will be available. Mengestu will lead and mentor local youth from immigrant communities in a writing workshop to help them capture and share their own immigrant experiences, 1 p.m. -3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 24, at the Seola Gardens Joseph House in White Center, 11215 Fifth Ave. S.W., Seattle. Space is lim- ited. To register, call 425-369-3455 or reg- ister online wwwkcls.org/bigread. autumn naevcsi CAROIVAL (hURSDAY, OCTOBER 29 1 $2.00 per child Costume Contest Halloween Crafts Games and mud more! Healthy dinn Ioption availab for purchase., TUKWILA ['ARK!, R1 [:RI AI ION r Spuit A holiday giving program for local children in need. This program relies on gener- ous citizens who are interested in purchasing new gift items for the young in our community. You can truly make a difference in the life of a local child. TOY COLLECTION EVENT Also accepting cash and food for the Tukwila Pantry 1OAM SATURDAY —4PM November 21 WESTFIELD SOUTHCENTER SOUTH PARKING LOT If you or your business would like to share in the Spirit of Giving, contact Stacey Agmata at 206.768.2822 or stacey.agmata©tukwilawa.gov THE SPIRIT OF GIVING ISA PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN: TUKWILA 1'AIl F'+h Ilfl.111«1R1u Wst%kd SOUTHCENTER tukwila's Gina and Jack Tucci stand in front of their 105 -year-old house in Riverton that's a loca- tion for 'The Maury Island Incident Dean A. Radford/ Tukwila Reporter UFOs to help raise money for society BY LOUISE JONES -BROWN TUKWILA HISTORICAL SOCIETY "The Maury Island Incident" film will be shown as a fundraising event for the Tuk- wila Historical Society Sunday, Oct. 25. A featured venue in the film is a turn -of -the - century Tukwila farmhouse located in the Riverton neighborhood which is owned by the society's secretary, Gina Tucci, and her husband Jack. There have been declassified FBI documents obtained that reveal a sto- ry about the UFO sighting of flying discs near Maury Island by Harold Dahl on June 21, 1947, as well as the first report about a Man in Black making a visit to suggest that Harold remain quiet about what he wit- nessed. The Tukwila home was selected by the film's producer, Scott Schaeffer, as it has historic and original 1909 features neces- sary to create the atmosphere of almost 70 years ago. The script was written by local writer and producer Steve Edmiston. The film has been shown in many local area towns and film festivals and received many awards including at the most recent Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF). It has been shown as a benefit for several histori- cal societies, including Kent, Des Moines and Vashon. The society is honored to be included in the list that held a screening of this locally produced film. The 30 -min- ute film will screen at 7 p.m. at the Foster Performing Arts Center, 4242 S. 144th St., Tukwila, and will be followed by a special historical presentation: "No Confession: J. Edgar Hoover and The Maury Island Inci- dent:' Suggested donation is $10 (students with ID $5), and tickets are available online here: http://bit.ly/lhoL9eW. Tickets will be available at the door, or online from http:// www.mauryislandincident.com. As a spe- cial feature, a limited number of film at- tendees will be able to purchase a ticket for an "After Screening" reception at the Tuc- cis' home on a first come/first serve basis. On the night of the event, contact a rep- resentative from the society at the Foster PAC for this exciting opportunity to visit the site featured in the film and support the Tukwila Historical Society. Louise Jones -Brown is president of the Tukwila Historical Society. The society oper- ates the Tukwila Heritage and Cultural Cen- ter, 14475 59th Ave. S., Tukwila. Reach the center by phone at 206 -244 -HIST (4478) or via email at tukwilaheritagectr@tukwilahis- tory.org. Tukwila Mayor's Race 2015 Campaign Contributions by Source FROM OUTSIDE TUKWILA'S BORDERS 1 1 Elll FROM WITHIN TUKWILA'S BORDERS Ekberg $22,346 Total Budget Quinn $27,687 Total Budget Draw your own conclusions — you decide, Who will have Tukwila's local interest at heart? Data from the State Public Disclosure Commission Reports as of 10/11/15 Paid for by Citizens Voting for Ekberg www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2015 3 Housing authority adds affordable apartments BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM The Tukwila -based King County Hous- ing Authority has purchased apartment complexes in Tukwila and SeaTac near the Link light-rail station to help provide af- fordable housing for families and individu- als who meet income requirements. The addition of The Villages at South Station in Tukwila and the Corinthian Apartments in SeaTac will bring the hous- ing authority 286 apartment units closer to its goal of preserving at least 800 units of affordable housing in suburban King County over the next five years. Housing authority officials say afford- able housing is threatened by what they describe as a "meteoric rise" in rents in the region, especially near transit centers. Regional and local policies encourage the location of affordable housing near major transportation hubs, such as the light-rail station, which provide access to employment centers and services through- out the region. The Villages at South Station complex is on South 154th Street, east of Tukwila In- ternational Boulevard, and the Corinthian is on South 154th Street west of the Boule- vard. The Villages was purchased for $29.3 million and the Corinthian for $10.12 mil- lion. "By keeping rents affordable, this acqui- sition helps the City of Tukwila attract the workforce it needs; said Mayor Jim Hag- gerton about the purchase of the Villages at South Station in a news release. "This is a strategic investment that pro- tects affordability and mass transit;' he said. How the properties are managed and how each will meet the demands for af- fordable house differ. Neither complex will offer subsidized housing, which is available Finding the Connecti Since 1989 Wliere it's home and you're family. Providing Premier Memory Care Permanent Residency • Short Term • Day Stay Call Today For A Tour WEATHERLY INN 253-630-7496 • www.weatherlyinn.com/kent 15101 SE 272nd St., Kent, WA 98042 Close to Hwy 18 on Kent-Kangley at other housing authority properties, nor are the complexes considered public hous- ing. The Villages at South Station in Tukwila is considered a higher -end market prop- erty, according to Rhonda Rosenberg, a housing authority spokeswoman. Its man- agement company, Madrona Ridge Resi- dential, won't change. The housing authority will ensure that rents in at least half the 191 units will re- main affordable to families at or below 80 percent of the area median income for a family of four, or $65,800. Over time, that will slow the increases in rent at the com- plex, according to Rosenberg, which likely would increase by double digits as rental markets tighten. Rents there generally range from $900 to $1,500, depending on the unit size, accord- ing to the news release. The housing authority will outright own The Villages and residents shouldn't feel any "practical impact" from the sale, Rosenberg said. The complex will not re- quire any major upgrades or renovations. In comparison, some residents at The Corinthian in SeaTac will have to move to different apartment complexes, because they make more than the new income maximum, which is 60 percent of the area's median income. To help with the move, the housing authority will give them $3,000 in relocation assistance and help finding a new apartment, according to Rosenberg. The Corinthian has 95 units; residents in as many as half of those units may need to move. "We are working with residents to make sure they all land on their feet; Rosenberg said. The Corinthian, which attracts lower-in- come renters, also differs from The Villages in that it needs some modest rehabilitation, especially in the interiors, Rosenberg said, adding there are safety issues, too. Ike Stcdt 4,1.., ran: e.�. , uil a X03 Tukwila, WA 98188 • • Robert DENTAL AND tukwila WINNER BESTCF2013 • EVERYTHING IS GEARED TOWARD . YOURCHIAND. ;COMFORT . ENIOYMENT 206-575-1130 * fax: 206-575-1133 www.doctorbuda.com Buda D.D.S., ORTHODONTIC Lukwila 'WINNER' BESTEF2014 N K W ILA • SEATAC • DES MOINES .AWPAGS) SERVICES Lukwila FNA ST BESToF2015 TUKWILA• SEATAC • DES MOINES,AWPADSJ THANKS * 6 month preventative exams * Free Orthodontic exams * Brushing for toddlers * Teething tips *White Fillings * Sports Guards * Space Maintainers t ur office is fun and kid friendly. We have great games and giveaways during the year. Your child gets a prize and sticker * Thumb Guards at every visit. ' * Anxiety Medication * General Anaesthesia available Dr. Buda is currently accepting many different insurance plans. Over the last four years we have become a preferred provider for 7 major insurance companies including: *Aetna •Assurant *Cigna *Delta •DSHS •Great West •Guardian •Humana •Metlife •Premera •Regence •WDS *United Concordia 1439047 index tukwila ufotorescue The Tukwila Historical Society will show "The Maury Island Incident" as a fundraiser 3 morehousing The King County Housing Authority has purchased apartment complexes in Tukwila and Seatac that will offer affordable rents. 6 ourviews Read the editorial page, and page 6, for some views that may help you decide who to vote for in the important mayoral race. 7 gobulldogs The Foster High School Bulldogs are headed for the postseason after winning three league games. 14 coverstory Tukwila's voters, for the first time in eight years, are voting for a new mayor. Allan Ekberg and De'Sean Quinn are the candidates. reporter SOUND PUBLISHING INC. >19426 68th Avenue South > Kent, WA 98032 ,253.872.6600 > www.tukwilareporter.com 4 OCTOBER 2015 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com poolcolumn Tukwila Pool is place to go on third Saturday BY MARISSA FITZGERALD The Tukwila Pool strives to provide a positive and fun recreational experience for all. The staff, lifeguards and volun- teers of the Tukwila Pool invite families and friends to come check out our spe- cial events, hosted every third Saturday of the month from 1 p.m. to 3 pm. The cost is $3 per person for a day filled with swimming, fun, games, food and prizes. The pool hosted the Pumpkin Plunge on Oct. 17 for all ages and the first 100 participants were to plunge for a pump- kin in the pool. Pre -registration for this event is recommended. Bring your friends, dress up in costume, and join the fun. November's Turkey Races event will be hosted Nov. 21 and December's Win- ter Fiesta will be Dec. 19. Come join us in celebrating how awesome the Tukwila Pool is! All ages are welcome. For more information about our 3rd Saturday of the month special events, please check out our website, www.tuk- wilapool.org, or call the pool, 206-267- 2350, for more information today. We can't wait to see you there! Marissa Fitzgerald assistant aquatics manager Symphony marking 35 anniversary BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM The Rainier Symphony has launched its 35th season, previewing the work of the five finalists for the position of Rainier Symphony music director. Rainier Symphony is a 75 -member com- munity orchestra founded in 1981. This season, the symphony is present- ing five classical series concerts instead of four and there are guest soloists for all five concerts. The symphony is performing this season at the Foster High School Performing Arts Center in Tukwila and once again at the IKEA Performing Arts Center at Renton High School in downtown Renton. The 35th season began at Foster with "Heroic Triumph" Oct. 10 and 11, featur- ing guest conductor Jonathan Pasternack leading works by Beethoven, Elgar and Shostakovich. The season Here's the rest of the season: SERIES 2: TRAVELING MUSIC Nov. 14-15 • Saturday, Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m. Renton IKEA Performing Arts Center 400 S. Second St., Renton • Sunday, Nov. 15, 3 p.m. Foster Performing Arts Center / 0 ■ 0 APY* 19 -month CD Visit your local branch to open an account today. Southcenter Branch 130 Andover Park East, Suite 100 Tukwila, WA 98188 206-433-3702 Hours: Mon -Fri - 9:OOam - 6:OOpm [HomeStreet] Bank ` *APY (Annual Percentage Yield) effective October 12, 2015, and is subject to change. $500 minimum balance required to open and obtain the advertised APY Available for personal, business or IRA (Individual Retirement Account) CDs. Penalty may be assessed for early withdrawal. Fees could reduce earnings on the account. 11367 1 0/1 5 FDIC EGUALHGUSING LENDER 4242 S. 144th St., Tukwila • Robert Collins, guest conductor Peforming • Wagner: Flying Dutchman Overture • Weber: Clarinet Concerto No. 2 Guest soloist: Sean Osborn, clarinet • Sibelius: Symphony No. 2 HOLIDAY CONCERT Dec. 11 • Friday, Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m. Foster Performing Arts Center • Tigran Arakelyan, symphony's associ- ate conductor • Popular carol ar- rangements by John Rutter and Peter Hope, the music of G.F. Handel and other favorites. The concert features com- bined choirs of Foster High School and Show- alter Middle School. SERIES 3: INNOVA- TION AND REFLECTION Feb. 20 and 21 • Saturday, Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m. • Sunday, Feb. 21, 3 p.m. Foster Performing Arts Center • Pierre -Alain Chevalier, guest conduc- tor Performing • Berlioz: Roman Carnival Overture • Haydn: Trumpet Concerto in Eb Major Guest soloist: George Steward, trumpet • Brahms: Symphony No. 1 Robert Collins SERIES 4: OF WORLDS UNSEEN April 16 and 17 • Saturday, April 16, 7:30 p.m. Renton IKEA Performing Arts Center • Sunday, April 17, 3 p.m. Foster Performing Arts Center • Brad Cawyer, guest conductor Performing • Walton: Viola Concerto Guest soloist: Vijay Chalasani, viola • Weber: Overture to Oberon • Franck: Symphony in D minor SERIES 5: Romanticism Reimagined May 21 and 22 • Saturday, May 21, 7:30 p.m. • Sunday, May 22, 3 p.m. Foster Performing Arts Center • Jeffery Lund, guest conductor Performing • Herold: Overture to Zampa • Brahms: Violin Concerto Guest soloist: Sharyn Peterson, violin • Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition Tickets for Rainier Symphony con- certs are available at the door, online at www.rainiersymphony.org or by calling 206.781.5618. Ticket prices are: adult - $17; senior/stu- dent - $12; age 12 and under - free. There is free parking at each concert venue. The Rainier Symphony is supported in part by the City of Tukwila Arts Commis- sion, Tukwila School District, and King County 4Culture. Get toe/\00 un faster. The new 1-405 Express Toll Lanes keep you moving. And with any Good To Go! pass you'll always pay the lowest toll. Arrive faster, and for less, too. Get your pass at GoodToGo405.org. Express Toll Lanes > write staff regional publisher polly shepherd publisher ellen morrison publisher@tukwilareporter.com editor dean radford editor@tukwilareporter.com 425.255.3484, ext. 5150 circulation jay krause 253.872.6610 The Tukwila Reporter encourages reader participation in your community newspaper. Share your thoughts in a letter to the editor (200 words or less) including your full name, address and phone number. HERE'S HOW To submit a letter to the editor, E-MAIL: editor@ tukwilareporter.com FAX: 253.437.6016 MAIL: 19426 68th Ave. S., Ste. A, Kent, WA 98032 STORY IDEAS: dradford@ tukwilareporter.com ONLINE CALENDAR: tukwilareporter.com www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2015 5 tukwilacommentary Critical election for Tukwila's future don't know how the voters of Tukwila are going to I pick their next mayor. De'Sean Quinn and Allan Ekberg are strong can- didates, with a concern and love for their city and its residents that run deep. In talking with them and watching them at City Council meetings and candidate forums, I don't sense any hidden agendas or underlying political (yes, I know the council is nonpartisan) philosophies that run counter to what's good for the city. Nor apparently are Ekberg or Quinn running for office because they have an ax to grind with the city or they're angry about some issue that didn't go their way. This may seem like a low bar but I place it there be- cause some cities - big and small - simply can't field a full contingent of candidates who have at heart what's best for the city. Perhaps it's a sign that Tukwila is a politically ma- ture city with a sophistication made necessary by its strategic location in the region and by the challenges it faces as a city that's poor, diverse and rich all at the same time. W �. 0.2 . c a o — u W D s H W vU Incumbency won't help voters make their decision in the mayor's race as both candidates sit on the City Council. You can read their own words about why they are the better candidate in this month's Tukwila Reporter. And you can read my stories on the two candidates which I hope will offer insights. Something will resonate, maybe a promise or just how they tell their story. For sure, the candidates are discussing the right is- sues - protection of the city's single-family neighbor- hoods and how to make residents safe. There is noth- ing more important than quality of life for residents young or old or single or married. The Tukwila Reporter isn't endorsing any candi- dates in this year's election (nor has it in the past). But I can say, if we did, our decision would be as tough as yours in the mayor's race. For some thoughtful guidance, read Chuck Par- rish's column below. And school Supt. Nancy Coogan offers the Tukwila School District's perspective on why a close working relationship between the city and school district is important. And consider what the city's next generation of leaders - its teenagers - had on their minds when [ more EDITOR page 6] City, schools join together to help kids Iis political season, with some of Tukwila's most critical leadership positions up for election. But no matter who comes out ahead at the polls, I already know who the winners are — all of us in the community because we have a full slate of dedicated residents who want to make this city the best it can be. I attended sever- al debates and forums, and I've had the pleasure of personally working with many of the can- didates; all in all, I have con- fidence that each is motivated by pride in their community and a desire to serve. One issue that seems to come up frequently with the candidates for mayor, o>c a City Coun- a o, cil, and ,z�,°o School M >. Board is ' o o il3 how — or V z whether — the city and school district will work together for the benefit of our families. Well, I want to put any concern to rest: We are 100 -percent committed to cooperation and collabo- ration. My philosophy is that we really are just two arms of the same organization — local government — and we work best when we are informed about each other (at a mini- mum) and aligned in our ef- forts (ideally). Toward that end, we spend quite a bit of time together. Not only do city -council and school -board members hold [ more COOGAN page 8 ] When intelligent people make dumb decisions Ever heard a political candidate promise this or pledge that? Or promise to vote one way or the oth- er? It is not a good thing. While promises and pledges may sound good to single - issue voters and ideological hard-liners, they handcuff the newly elected official when it comes time to make policy. In such circumstances, intelligent people inevitably make dumb decisions. Tukwila voters do need to know what candidates think and what their posi- tion is on issues. What do they think is important to residents and what would they like to do if they could? Perhaps candidates should promise that they will be thoughtful, careful and willing to change their minds if necessary. And perhaps candidates should pledge that they will do their homework, show up on time and be open-minded. Policy making is a dogged effort to understand issues and concerns and to separate the relevant from irrelevant. They must rec- ognize the difference between major and minor aspects of an issue and work with others to fashion policy that best serves the constituents. To do all that, candi- dates must have the right temperament. That is a tough one for voters to judge. Tukwila Reporter columnist Chuck Parrish can be reached via email at chuckparrish2009@gmail.com. 6 ( OCTOBER 2015 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com Mayoral candidates: In their own words De'Sean Quinn: Goal is to provide quality services to city of Tukwila Im running for mayor of the City of Tukwila because I love this city, its resi- dents, and the many things that make it such a great place to call home. I've been raising my family in our city for 13 years. I love Tukwila - not just for what it's been for generations of residents but for what it can be for future ones. After seven years on the City Council, I want to take a more active role in creating the safe, thriving, fiscally responsible and innovative future we all want for Tukwila. It's a vision that hundreds of residents have described to me during my years on the council and on my walk and talks with people through- out our neighborhoods this year. I've learned that no matter whether we're long-time or recently arrived resi- dents or business owners, we all want the best for our families and our city. By working together on four key goals, we will have a positive impact on the quality of life for everyone in Tukwila. Together we will build this vision: 1. Improving public safety by having more officers in the neighborhoods 2. Protecting the character of our neigh- borhoods by encouraging growth in the Southcenter area and providing resources to existing residential neighborhoods 3. Improving education to better serve our children and attract new families 4. Attract great businesses to increase job opportunities for residents Bringing people together to work through differences is part of who I am. As a child, I mediated disagreements among my brothers in a family that in- stilled in us a commitment to service. In my professional career, I have developed a reputation for bringing people together and building coalitions to solve tough problems. Throughout my 11 years in public ser- vice, I've learned that coordination, nego- tiation, and finding common ground are the keys to progress on even the most divisive issues. My work with the council on a variety of issues also reminds me that inviting a diversity of voices and opin- ions on tough issues makes for better results. It is always better when those most affected by an issue have the opportunity to share their views and ideas. I want to use my energy, experience, and commitment to bring high standards and a sense of shared purpose to the work Tukwila does on behalf of our commu- nity. Together, we can make the city more responsive and make sure that we provide high quality services throughout Tukwila. If given the honor of being your mayor, I will be present, attentive, and actively engaged in the issues that matter most to our community. I respectfully ask for your vote so that together we can make our shared vision for Tukwila a reality. Tyson For Tukwila City Council Position 6 "There is no shortage of your tax dollars in Tukwila's Budget. The problem is your money is not properly allocated to assure enough is spent on our people, rather than on things". - Charles Tyson, Candidate Pos. 6, Tukwila City Council "There is no such thing as government money. There is tax money. - Zell Miller, GA (D) Paid for by Tyson for Tukwila. 5617 S. 149th St., Tukwila WA 98168. 206-790-9444 Your Vote Counts 11/3/15 CASCADE MEMORIAL low cost cremation & funerals $495 Simple Cremation $895 Direct Burial Bellevue 425.641.6100 Federal Way 253.874.9000 Online arrangements available CascadeMemorial.com Allan Ekberg: This isn't about me, because your issues are my issues An article about me? But being mayor is about you. Your issues are my issues. As I've rung doorbells throughout our neighborhoods, I have met many of you and heard your concerns. Such as: streetlight repair in Allentown; streetlight installation in McMicken; sur- face -water drainage in Ryan Hill; fire haz- ards of dry grass in Cascade View; motor- cycles crossing the Duwamish footbridge; parking signs for Ri- verton; stop signs for Foster Point/Allen- town; sewer annexa- tion concerns in the Loop; backyard en- croachment in Foster; drug houses in Mc- Micken/Allentown; fireworks in Thorndyke; ants in Cascade View; schools; and speeding vehicles on Tukwila Hill and every neighborhood. Where immediate action could be tak- en, I took it. Public Works now knows our streetlight concerns and has started work on surface -water problems. The fire haz- ard was cleaned up by code enforcement. Bollards are being considered to stop those motorcycles. Soon, Riverton park- ing signs will go up. There's a new stop sign at Foster Point. The police chief and I dis- cussed the speeding and the need for more patrols. Drug houses - law enforcement is watching you. The ants - well, that's a co- nundrum. As a senior manager, I have made criti- cal decisions for large companies like Star- bucks, Eddie Bauer, lululemon and Disney. Those decisions affect the Internet experi- ence of thousands of users. I also have more than 15 years of service on our City Council, in addition, seven years of service on the city's Planning Commission. I work well at any level, be it private or public; lo- cal, county, state, or federal. I am ready to step in as mayor to engage and lead. I know what the next critical decisions are. Many citywide issues command our attention, such as housing, safety, jobs, roads, facilities, law enforcement, and ed- ucation. These are the needs of everyone, not just a few. Our business corridors have had intensive focus. It's time to shift more focus to our residents. I'm asking to be your next mayor. I want to be in a position to serve all of you, to be directly engaged as I was when we talked. As mayor, I will be active in our local af- fairs. Your kids will see me lunching at Foster's cafeteria, if I'm not eating with the seniors at the Community Center. All of you, the people of Tukwila, are the city's special interests. I will work alongside re- gional players to make sure our interests are represented, not overshadowed. I take great pride in being from Tukwila. I was raised here, had family here, and a career here. Tukwila is a part of me. I love this city. If you've met me, you know I'm approachable. As mayor, my door will be open. Learn about me at: EkbergforMayor. com [ EDITOR from page 5] they asked candidates for mayor, City Council and School Board thoughtful and sometimes profound questions at a student - organized forum at Foster last week. Based on their questions, Affordable Wills Simple Will $300.00 Trust Will for minor children $350.00 Community Prop. Agreement $200.00 Durable Power of Attorney $150.00 Directive to Physician $75.00 Mention this ad for package discount. MOGREN, GLESSNER, ROTI & AHRENS P.S. Attorneys at Law 15 So. Grady Way,100 Evergreen Building, Renton, WA 98057 (425) 255-4542 • www.mgrlaw.com it's clear they want the en- vironment protected, they want to feel safe walking on Tukwila International Boulevard, they want older businesses on the Boule- vard protected (probably some operated by their par- ents), they see their parks as places to connect residents and they want to improve transit in the city including to the Tukwila Community Center. The candidates did a good job explaining what has been done or why something can't be done. But the underlying tone of the questions was a "call to action" for the city's leaders. I think we'll be hear- ing more from these teens. Their ideas matter - and they are watching. Tukwila Reporter edi- tor Dean A. Radford can be reached at dradford@ tukwilareporter.com or 425- 255-3484, ext. 5150. To ADVERTISE YOUR PLACE OF WORSHIP Please call Lisa 425-255-3484 Ext. 3052 iI1 ctofll FOSTER-TUKWILA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 14401 56th Ave S TRUNK 0' TREATS, 6-8 PM Saturday, October 31, 201 Fall Schedule: fi CE 9:00 am; Worship 10:30 am 206-243-4455 • www.ftpc.org letterstothe Quinn is right choice for citizens of Tukwila I have been a member of the Tukwila City Council for the last 33 years. I have worked with Councilman De'Sean Quinn for the last four of those years. Every Monday he comes to our meetings prepared and he brings integrity and leadership to our city's governing body. He has the knowledge, the skills and the capability of leading the city of Tukwila into the future. Our city needs someone who has proved business savvy to work with small busi- ness owners and attract new commerce to Tukwila. We need someone who knows how to make the tOugh decisions that will bring change as well as foster productiv- ity. De'Sean is someone we can depend on. De'Sean is trustworthy, honest and dedi- cated. He understands the issues that are most important to our residents. His expe- rience and vow of inclusion will serve us well. That's why I am voting for De'Sean Quinn for mayor and I ask you to vote with me for the man who is the best and only choice for the future of Tukwila. Joe Duffle Tukwila Prop. 1 encourages leadership diversity Yes on Proposition 1 is great for the Tuk- wila Pool and encourages diversity in lead- ership A Yes vote for Proposition 1 will give the Tukwila Pool Metropolitan Park District the additional attention it not only de- serves but quite frankly needs. Two impor- tant facts to note are that this will not in- crease taxes and will not change operations at the pool. Proposition 1 simply transfers governance from a very busy City Council with a multitude of duties to a five -person, independently elected commission whose only focus would be allowing our commu- nity pool to thrive. An independent dis- trict requires independent commissioners who are directly accountable to the voters. Moreover, independently elected commis- sions are the norm for the vast majority of successful park districts in communities throughout Washington state. A Yes vote for Proposition 1 will also em- power more citizens of Tukwila in leader- ship roles. It is not surprising that the Tuk- wila City Council unanimously voted to place this measure on the ballot, as it aligns perfectly with the city's recently adopted Strategic Plan. A wonderfully diverse com- munity such as ours should include a di- versity in opportunities to serve our great city. Please vote yes on Proposition 1; it is a win-win for Tukwila. Vanessa Zaputil Tukwila With board, more options to serve city This fall Tukwila voters have an oppor- tunity to approve Proposition 1, a measure that will allow more leadership opportuni- ties in our city by establishing five, directly elected positions in the Tukwila Metropoli- tan Pool District (TMPD). Currently the pool district is governed by Tukwila City Council members, serving [ more LETTERS page 8] gdathv w%ig %Xs • qvohf,iry wag $ergiok4 • Watimawiig You. Is active in our neighborhoo first • Builds community • best interests at heart • Ta action • Listens to the comm on what matters to people • ground • Helps people int together • Is an open -mi Works hard for positive chan leader • Builds confidence in • Gets involved and contrib right questions • Knows the consensus • Solves problem Builds partnerships for succe integrity, hard work and • Connects with communi collaboration • Trustworth s • Puts peop Has Tukwila's es meaningful unity • Focuses Finds common ract and work ded leader • e • Is a servant the communit tes • Asks flit, issues • Builds • Builds trust • s • Serves with ommon sense • Promote. and reliable • POSITION #6 PAID FOR BY ELECT KAT _R ENDORSED BY YOUR FIREFIGHTERS • IAFF 2088 1441499 www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2015 7 OZero, zip, zilch No matter how you say it, Humana has Medicare Advantage plans with $0 premiums Looking for a lower premium Medicare plan? How does $0 a month sound? You can get great benefits, plus the extras you want - all for a $0 monthly plan premium. • 24-hour nurse advice line • Convenient mail-order prescription drug coverage • Fitness program — gym membership at no additional cost • Rides to your doctors • Hearing and Vision coverage • Telephonic counseling through Member Assistance Program • Virtual doctor visits from your phone or computer And that's just for starters. Call to find out what else you can get for a $0 premium. 1-877-713-6176 (TTY: 711) Call a licensed sales agent 5 a.m. - 8 p.m., 7 days a week zEspaiiol? 1-855-842-3436 Or attend a seminar to learn more: FEDERAL WAY Humana Mt. Rainier Room 32125 32nd Ave. S, Suite 250 Oct. 27 at 10 a.m. Humana,. RENTON Iora Primary Care 64 Rainier Ave. S Oct. 21, 28 at 1 p.m. Oct. 26 at 10 a.m. Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in this Humana plan depends on contract renewal. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and member cost share may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. A sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings call 1-877-713-6176 (TTY: 711). Hours are 5 a.m. - 8 p.m., 7 days a week. Applicable to Humana Community H2012-033 (HMO). This information is available for free in other languages. Please contact a licensed Humana sales agent at 1-877-713-6176 (TTY: 711). Esta informacion esta disponible gratuitamente en otros idiomas. Pongase en contacto con un agente de yentas certificado de Humana al 1-855-842-3436 (TTY: 711). Y0040_GHHHXCFENTE16_22 Approved 8 ( OCTOBER 2015 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com Tukwila firefighters inducted into Foster High Hall of Fame BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM Don Tomaso and Michael McCoy began their careers as firefighters while students at Foster High School, across the street from Fire Station 54, which was then staffed by volunteers. When the fire siren rang atop Showalter and at the fire station in the 1970s and early 1980s, students who had signed up as volunteers would run across South 144th Street to the station and wait for an adult to arrive to drive the fire engine to the fire or other emergency. "They didn't have volunteers during the day, so they didn't have a choice," said Tomaso of using students 16 or older to fight fires and provide advanced first aid, for which the student vol- unteers were provided training. After graduating from Foster, Tomaso in 1978, and McCoy in 1982, the two rose through the ranks in the Tukwila Fire Department. On Wednesday, Oct. 7, Mc- Coy and Tomaso, front- line firefighters for de- cades, were inducted into the Foster High School Alumni Hall of Fame. McCoy will not be there; he died unexpectedly in April at a National Disaster Medical System class in Ala- bama. His twin brother Patrick, also a fire department captain and a fire volunteer while at Foster, will accept the honor for him. Tomaso was part of the team from Tukwila that brought McCoy home. "Here you have a local kid from Tukwila who had a sig- nificant impact on the country when it comes to disasters;" said Tomaso. This is the first time two alumni have been inducted at the same time into the Hall of Fame, which began honor- ing graduates in 2008 to recognize their outstanding con- tributions to their community or the world. Tomaso says he suggested that the honor just go to Mc- Coy but the nominator said McCoy would have suggested that only Tomaso receive the honor. "Both Mike and me are low-key. I don't like high-profile things. I just like to get the job done;' said Tomaso, who began his paid firefighting career in White Center in 1982. He joined the Tukwila Fire Department in 1989. Michael McCoy Don Tomaso stands next to The Rock at Foster High School. Dean A. Radford/ Tukwila Reporter Tomaso, who holds the rank of battalion chief, has been Tukwila's fire marshal for about 13 years, which means he investigates and determines the cause of a fire. He's a nationally recognized expert in fire investigations and is president of the Northwest Fire Investigators. A top priority is educating the public about fire safety and prevention; the fire department is an active participant in National Night Out. Tomaso is a member of the City of Tukwila's Strategic Planning Committee and is a youth sports coach. Tukwila has fires, of course, but they are usually small ones, he said, in part because with four fire stations, fire- fighters arrive "fairly quickly." "Even going back before my time, Tukwila has always been about fire prevention," he said. Tomaso has investigated large fires throughout King, Pierce and Snohomish counties, including a Street of Dreams fire that burned four homes in Snohomish Coun- ty, as part of an agreement in which fire agencies share their fire investigators. McCoy was hired in 1986 as a paid firefighter for King County Fire District 1. He joined the Tukwila Fire Depart- ment in 1987 when the fire district was annexed into Tuk- wila. He was a long-time senior member of the National Di- saster Medical Systems field leadership team, and his ser- vice took him to national and international disasters such as the Oklahoma City Bombing, Super Storm Sandy, the Haiti earthquake, and Hurricane Katrina, where he was re- sponsible for the largest patient evacuation in U.S. history. He was the lead adviser for the Tukwila Fire Explorer Post of the Zone 3 Fire Explorers, a Boys Scouts of Ameri- ca branch for young people interested in a career in public safety Tukwila buys smoke house The City of Tukwila has now added a smoke shop to four motels it has purchased on Tukwila International Boule- vard in an effort to reduce crime on that major thorough- fare and elsewhere in the city. The city purchased for $388,875 Sam's Smoke Shop, 14452 Tukwila International Blvd., using money from its general fund, according to city spokeswoman Rachel Bi- anchi. The city earlier purchased the Great Bear, Boulevard and Traveler's Choice motels, which were seized in a multi - agency raid in August 2013, and the Spruce Motel. The city also took possession of smoke shop's building, which was included in the City's Urban Renewal project. The City Council will be asked in November to award a bid to demolish the motels and the smoke shop. The city will be seeking developers for the vacant sites in 2016. Autumn Harvest Festival Oct. 29 Tukwila Parks and Recreation Department is hosting the annual Autumn Harvest Carnival Thursday, Oct. 29. The event is 6 p.m. -8 p.m. at the Tukwila Community Center, 12424 42nd Ave. S., Tukwila. Each year the carnival draws about 600 kids and fami- lies from the Tukwila community, where they dress up in costumes for an evening of games, Halloween crafts, a cos- tume contest, spooky storytellers and dinner. Admission is $2 per child with healthy dinner options available for purchase.For more information, call the Tuk- wila Community Center at 206-768-2822. [LETTERS from page 7] "ex officio" as its commissioners. The commissioners set policy for the TMPD and oversee pool operations. Proposition 1 gives voters the option of changing to a governing body that consists of five commissioners that will be directly elected. This will not incur any changes in taxpayer rates. An important benefit of this change in governance is that it opens up five brand-new elected positions in the city, letting residents participate more fully in our city govern- ment. Individuals with a particular interest in the pool will be able to become more involved. Enabling more of our residents to be engaged in leadership activities that have a high degree of responsibility only serves to strengthen our community. There are individuals running for the five elected po- sitions on the ballot, too; but the winners won't become commissioners unless Proposition 1 passes. If it does pass, and you are interested in the oversight of the pool, you can consider running for a commissioner's seat in the future. Ed Hougardy Tukwila [COOGAN from page 5] annual joint meetings, but so do our lead- ership staffs (the next meeting is scheduled in just a few weeks, in fact). I also meet with the Mayor's Office monthly. In addi- tion, our specialists come together to talk about issue -specific topics. Police and fire representatives meet every other month with our school safety/security folks and with me as Partners in Education (PIE); Human Services and Parks & Recreation staff are standing members of our monthly service providers meeting; and our com- munication teams consult with each other and open their communication channels with one another. More fundamentally, the City of Tuk- wila has been an instrumental partner in forming our two most important initiatives for the future: Our strategic plan and the bond measure that will be on the Febru- ary 2016 ballot. City staff were enthusiastic and critical partners during each commit- tee process. Of course, there are also project- and event -specific partnerships happening all the time. The city's Parks and Recreation staff are in our elementary buildings every afternoon running our after-school pro- gram. We are thankful to be invited to rep- resent schools at city events (you will see a "fill the bus" event at next year's Touch a Truck!). Hundreds of our families are served by our holiday giving program with Parks and Recreation. We were absolutely delighted to have inducted two hometown heroes —firefighters Mike McCoy and Don Tomaso — into the Foster Hall of Fame earlier this month. And our staff members touch base frequently about things like se- curity cameras (how our two systems can interface), homelessness (resources and so- lutions), and traffic concerns (how we keep the roads by our schools safe and conges- tion -free), for instance. These are just a few examples. Overall, I hope you get the sense that the city and school district are truly committed to a collaborative partnership when it comes to serving the families of Tukwila. We are in a new era where our joint priority is service to YOU! So happy voting in the November elec- tion. As you make your selections, at least you can put your mind at ease about how your community leaders are going to be working together. I want my parting words to be a passionate reminder: MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD IN THIS ELECTION AND ALL ELECTIONS. We have so many refugees and immigrants in our district who would love the ability to vote in a democratic election. Please don't let your right to vote go to waste. In service, Superintendent Nancy Coogan Tukwila School Superintendent Dr. Nancy Coogan can be reached at 206-901- 8006 or at ncoogan@tukwila.wednet.edu tukwila 1 Bulldogs headed for playoffs BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM The Foster High football team is already assured a spot in the district 2A playoffs, going undefeated against other Seamount teams in its three league games. A win over fellow 2A school Lind- bergh High last Friday would have meant the Bulldogs are first seed and will host a playoff game at home. No matter what happened Friday [after the Tukwila Reporter's print dead- line], the Bulldogs are already assured second seed. Through Oct. 9 the Bulldogs have gone undefeated in league play under new head coach Elijah Ruhl, after los- ing non-league games to Interlake, Sammamish and Cleveland. The Bulldogs beat the 2A Indians 34-32, in Renton High's homecoming game Oct. 2, ensuring a second seed. Foster beat Hazen High, a 3A school, 32-29 on Sept. 25. And Foster beat Highline 36-14 on Oct. 9. Kennedy -Catholic was the only other Seamount team that was unde- feated in league play after Oct. 9. "The key to our success in the league so far has been our ability to minimize the number of penalties that plagued us to start the season;" said Ruhl. He's also fortunate, he said, "to have some very talented athletes and the offense is clicking for them now." Junior running back Camet Soe "has exploded onto the Seamount scene;' rushing for more than 200 yards against both Hazen and Renton, said Ruhl. "I'm really excited about what he brings to our team" Soe, No. 23, is 5 -foot -9 and weighs 180 pounds. He joins senior running back Alvin Noa, who at 5 -foot -10 and 230 pounds has been a scoring threat during his entire Foster career. Ruhl calls No. 11, one of his key veterans, a grinder. "Camet has gotten the bulk of the carries and is a big play threat any time he touches the ball; but for two consecutive weeks I knew I could call on No. 11 to pound in the game -win- ning score;' said Ruhl. Noa is also a defensive lineman. Ruhl has instituted a new offense sys- tem this season, with which he said his senior quarterback Zane Jacobson "is growing progressively more com- fortable." Jacobson also plays defense. "He has been making smart deci- sions and made some big plays down the stretch in close games against Hazen and Renton;' Ruhl said of Ja- cobson. "It is difficult to learn a new offense as a senior quarterback and I think Zane is doing a great job and we are peaking offensively at the right time:' Now, the postseason looms. "The important thing for us to always remind ourselves is that al- though it's great to have some success, we haven't done anything yet," Ruhl said. On Oct. 23, Foster hosts Ken- nedy Catholic, which depending on what happened Friday, could pit the league's two undefeated teams. Foster's game against Evergreen on Oct. 30 has been canceled, following the death of an Evergreen football player from injuries he suffered in a game. At Foster's homecoming game Oct. 9, the Foster community hon- ored the football player, Kenny Bui, with a moment of silence. Following the Bui's death on Oct. 5, Ruhl and Ammon McWashington, Foster's acting athletic director, talked about the importance of players using proper techniques when tackling. "Proper tackling and blocking drills are taught each practice session;' Mc - Washington said. Dean A. Radford can be reached at 425-255-3484, ext. 5150. www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2015 9 Present coupon for a FREE DRINK with purchase of sandwich. 206.575.7761 • www.capriottis.com 17308 Southcenter Parkway • Tukwila WA 98188 HI OPEN HOUSE Wednesday, November 4 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm www.kennedyhs.org/events 1424413 /SEATTLE/ EATTLE THUNDERS/ ito EATTLE BRANDON DIR,EC-roRs. 2-FOR-TUES. OCT 27 11 7:05PM Mortgage PLAYER MAGNET FIRST 2,500 FANS $2 BEER, SODA, POPCORN & HOT DOGS For Tickets CaII 253.239.7825 seattlethunderbi rds.co m pe0rq what we wam 7 - KENT -} REP RTER1 ,oY UNLEASH TxETHUNDERs 10 < OCTOBER 2015 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com City of Tukwila • 6200 Southcenter Boulevard • Tukwila, WA 98188 • 206-433-1800 • Online: TukwilaWA.gov MAYOR: Jim Haggerton COUNCIL PRESIDENT: Kate Kruller COUNCIL MEMBERS: www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2015 11 Joe Duffle • Dennis Robertson • Allan Ekberg Verna Seal • Kathy Hougardy • De'Sean Quinn TUKWILA CITY PAGES Join the City in honoring its veterans! Tuesday, November 10, 10Am to 12:00 NOON in the Banquet Hall at Tukwila Community Center The city of opportunity Increasing awareness of stormwater contamination The City of Tukwila is required under the Federal Clean Water Act to provide stormwater education infor- mation to residents and businesses in an effortto reduce the amount of pollutants that are discharged to the City's stormwater systems. To assess Tukwila residents' understanding of stormwater-related issues, the City recently completed a phone survey of 100 residents. The survey re- vealed that the majority of respondents continue to be unaware that storm - water systems discharge directly to streams, wetlands, and the Green/Du- wamish River. The survey also found that residents are not informed that discharges of soaps, paints, oil, debris, and other contaminants are prohib- ited by law and severely impact the natural environment. Learn more about stormwater - stopping runoff pollution, dealing with hazardous household waste, even comparing Tukwila's utility rates to oth- er cities - with the information sheet at TukwilaWA.gov/stormwater.pdf. Do your part to reduce contaminants entering our natural waterways. Stormwa[er. What resitlents m .co- antl busnesses shoultl know �,�� KEEP ol,OF,xE„o pntoplarn all • by Kate Kruller, 2015 Council President Sometimes it is difficult to see all the ways in which your local government is working for you. Your City Council works hard to determine prioritization and funding for impactful proj- ects around the city. All you have to do is look around to see the great things that are happen- ing as a result! Up on Tukwila International Boulevard at South 144th, equipment and crews are creating foun- dations for our new King County Library and preparing for the construction of Tukwila Village - a new living complex for senior citizens. The location will also feature a plaza, community meeting space, a community police center, and other attractions where people can gather. Nearby, the City of Tukwila is continuing its cleanup of Tukwila International Boulevard and is nearly set to demolish a number of buildings just south of South 144th Street. This formerly blighted area will be ready for new development that is in line with our community ideals. In an effort to protect our children on the way to school, Tukwila has completed its Safe Routes to School projects at both Cascade View El- ementary and Thorndyke Elementary. New safe sidewalks and paths now make it easy to walk or roll to school! You also might have noticed that Tukwila has been replacing streetlight bulbs with LED lights in locations around the city. This work pays for itself in a very short period of time and will save taxpayers a lot of money! Down on Interurban Avenue the roadwork is re- ally taking shape. Important underground util- ity infrastructure has replaced what was badly in need of repair. You can see how the upgrades to safe sidewalks and greenery are now in place where at one time pedestrians were at risk walk- ing alongside the road. In our Tukwila Urban Center, a great deal of City cross -departmental collaboration has been implemented in preparation for a new 19 -story building featuring apartments and hotel rooms. Soon the foundation will be poured and our city's first high rise will be going up! Tukwila's road overlay project is noticeable in Allentown, by the Gateway complex on Tuk- wila International Boulevard, on Tukwila Park- way and along Southcenter Boulevard. This is a smart investment. Putting in new complete roadway blacktop surfaces preserves the use of a road for a much longer lifespan than repairing cracks and filling potholes. Along West Marginal Way down by the Metro bus barn, a project to replace underground utili- ties and control water runoff, install new curbing and complete that roadway is now finished. Ic- ing on the cake is that Tukwila won an award for the high-quality overlay work on that project! It takes a lot of long-range planning, design work and management to bring projects like this to life in this community. It's clear the fruit of all that effort is truly a benefit to all of us who live, work and visit here. Tukwila recognized for street project Each year the Washington State Asphalt Pavement Association (WAPA), Washington State Department of Transportation, American Public Works Association and the Washington Association of County Engineers issue awards to the most outstanding paving projects in Washington. This year, the City of Tukwila bested 13 other paving projects as the recipient of the 2015 Best City Paving Award - Western Washington for the overlay and repair done on East Marginal Way South. The award will be presented at the WAPA annual meeting in November. 7st WAPA WASHINGTON A• 4sLT PAVEMENT A.^.%)010.TION A Council vacancy is coming in January 2016 Because the current mayoral race in Tukwila involves two sitting Councilmembers, there will be a vacancy on the Tukwila City Coun- cil beginning in January 2016. City and State law provides that the remaining Councilmembers will appoint an individual to serve in the vacant position through the term's end in December2017. The City Council will publish formal notice of vacancy along with ap- plication materials later this year. If you would like to be notified of forthcoming information regarding the vacancy, send a message to CityCou nci l@Tu kwi IaWA.gov, or call 206-433-8993. Improvements continue on Tukwila International Boulevard The City of Tukwila purchased the former Sam's Smoke Shop prop- erty on Tukwila International Boulevard last month. This property is adjacent to the motel sites the City purchased after the law enforce- ment raid in 2013 and is slated to be a part of the demolition project that will occur later this year. The City paid $388,875 for the property, after negotiating with a willing seller. The purchase of the smoke shop property continues the years of work on Tukwila International Boulevard to improve the area, reduce crime and transform TIB to a welcoming neighborhood. Later this year, the smoke shop and three former motels -Great Bear, Boule- vard and Spruce - will be demolished. The City is currently in the bidding process to identify a contractor which will remove all build- ing debris in the first phase. In the spring, the contractor will return to remove the asphalt, grade and plant vegetation on the sites. In 2016, the City will start the process to select a developer interested in building on the site. The City Council, with input from the broader Tukwila community, will determine the final specifications for the type of development to be constructed on this location, and will ul- timately select a development. Meanwhile, construction continues to move forward at Tukwila Village just to the north of the sites of the former motels. Speak with a Councilmember about what's on your mind! Training Room at Fire Station #51 444 Andover Park East 10:OOAM to 12:00 NOON ltc4 Chat: Nue 21 Fall clean-up collection event 1 Over 200 Tukwila residents took advantage of the City's September 19 collection event. Containers dropped off at Saar's Super Saver Foods and the Tukwila Community Center enabled participants to drop off their hard -to -dispose -of items - some even making multiple trips! Residents expressed their appreciation for this service provided by Tukwila in partnership with Waste Management. Workers at the event collected the equiva- lent of fifteen 40 -yard containers! re/mattresses (7) - - - - Help families build better lives - - - - In support of October as Domestic Vio- lence Awareness Month, the City is host- ing a supply drive to benefit the emergen- cy shelter program at DAWN (Domestic Abuse Women's Network). Please bring donations to Tukwila City Hall for drop- off in the collection bin near the front counter. These items are most needed: A Hats, scarves, gloves, socks, umbrellas and winter coats A New pillows, twin comforters, towels and pajamas A Children's educational books A Young adult/teen literature A Art supplies A Shampoo/conditioner, soap, razors, feminine hygiene products, combs/brushes, toothbrushes/toothpaste A Gift cards to grocery stores A Canned food • • 2015 Tukwila Holiday fights Contest It's thR tim¢ of gar whRn folks Rnjoy sharing thiir holiday spirit thru f Rstiv¢ d¢eorating and amazing light displays. ThR City of Tukwila invitRs you to Rnt¢r your homw or businRss in our Ncond annual 'Holiday lights ContRst. Winning Rntrants will r¢e¢iv¢ an official yard sign proclaiming thRir award for lighting Rxc llQnc¢! Judging will takt plat¢ thR w¢¢k of D¢cgn b¢r 7, 2015 bRtwRRn thR hours of 4:00-9:00pm. WinnQrs will bQ K1RctRd in thR following catRgoriRs: *Classic 'Holiday * 'Holidays 'ground thR World * 17isibIR from pacg * ' partm¢nt/Condo: Bost Door *4.65 i6 Mom * ' partiwnt/Condo: BRst Balcony * NorthwRst fflair * BRst in CommR.rcial District: indoor e outdoor * JudgQe Choic¢ *City ta f f or elRet¢d Official Pick up an Rntrg form at thRsR locations or gRt onR from our wRbsit¢ at TukwilaW/9.gov/tiolidayLights.pdf — th¢n r¢turn compl¢t¢d form by 12 noon friday. DReRmbRr 4 — in pRrson or by mail: Tukwila City tlall 6200 outhcgnt¢r Blvd Tukwila, Wfl 98188 Tukwila Community CRntRr OR 12424 - 42nd fIvRnuR S. Tukwila, W'1 98168 OR by mail to Tukparks®TukwilaW' .gov 1'. • SP. Snot the Duwamish spawners this fall Warm waters and low flows have made 2015 a tough year for salm- on as they work to return to streams and rivers around Puget Sound this fall. Over the years, volunteer efforts in local watersheds have increased the chances for the salmon's success. Come outdoors and see what's going on at the river. August and September saw returning Chinook and coho, and chum salmon can be spotted through the end of November. Eagles, blue herons and osprey can sometimes be seen as well. Visit these two viewing sites on the Duwamish River to see these natural beauties migrating to their upstream spawning beds - and cheer them on if you see them! North Wind's Weir - 2914 South 112th Street The natural weir here allows for good viewing, especially at low tide. It's a popular spot with sport and tribal fishers. Located near the Green River Trail, the site features interpretive signage Codiga Park -12585 - 50th Place South The best viewing is at low tide, but jumping fish can be seen throughout the day in season. The park - the site of a former dairy farm -features picnic tables, a covered area, and interpretive signs. For more information about... - these sites and the ongoing restoration work by volunteers, go to www.DuwamishAlive.org or Facebook.com/DuwamishAlive - other Salmon SEEson-viewing sites, including along the Cedar River near Renton, plus information on protecting salmon and their habitat, visit www.GovLink.org/watersheds/9/ Every veteran deserves a safe, stable place to call home No veteran should experience homelessness. As part of both national and Countywide campaigns, Operation: WelcomeOneHome was launched this summer. It's a collabo- ration of landlords, veterans, elected officials and neighbors working to effectively end veteran homelessness by December 31, 2015. Achieving this goal requires a commu- nitywide response to provide access to rental units for veterans who are exiting home- lessness, especially in high-cost and tight rental markets. Thanks to actions at federal, state and local levels, veteran homelessness was reduced by 33% nationally between 2010 and 2013. In January 2014, 49,933 veterans were ex- periencing homelessness, accounting for more than 10% of all homeless adults. From January through July this year, 538 homeless veterans in King County have been housed, but there are still hundreds more across the County who need assistance. Many have the resources to move into permanent housing, but struggle to secure a place to call home in the highly competitive rental market. Landlords can play a key role honoring those who have served our country by making their rental units available to veterans who have experienced homelessness. Working with the VA and nonprofit organizations, participating vets are served by HUD Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing and Supportive Services for Veteran Families. These programs provide long- or short-term rental subsidies and services that can end homelessness for our nation's heroes and their families. Participants in these programs access case management and/or support services that provide a safety net for tenants, additional assurances that lease terms are met, and a reduced default risk. Landlords willing to rent to veteran households that have rental barriers can partner with the Landlord Liaison project; please call 206-336-4616. Meeting agendas, City programs, recreation activities, publications and more... get the most current information at TukwilaWA.gov! 12 OCTOBER 2015 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com Tukwila School District •406 Three school measures on the February 9 ballot More information is online at www.tukwila.wednet.edu What do you need to know about the Tukwila School District ballot measures on the Feb. 9, 2016, ballot? It's as easy as 0-1-2-3! ZERO EXPECTED INCREASE IN THE TAX RATE. The Tukwila School District plans very carefully to keep taxes stable and predictable for residents! The four-year average tax rate is projected to stay the same if all three measures pass. How is that possible? These are renewal measures, taking the place of expiring levies and bonds. Keep counting! The three separate ballot measures are: O LEVY FOR LEARNING ■ A 4 -year renewal School Programs and Operations Levy in the amount of $11.7 million in 2017; $12.2 million in 2018; $12.7 million in 2019; and $1 3.2 million in 2020. ■ Covers the gap between what state funding provides and the actual cost of educating students. ■ Accounts for about 28% of our operations budget (28C of every classroom dollar or the equivalent of more than 140 teaching positions). ■ Maintains existing programs and essentials such as special education, curriculum, and lower class sizes. © BOND FOR BUILDING ■ $99 million worth of General Obligation School Bonds to be repaid over the next 20 years. ■ Developed by a community -wide committee with parent, student, business, civic, and diverse representation. ■ Bonds are needed for any major school maintenance or construction project. A lot has happened since we passed our last bond in 1998! We need to: Alleviate overcrowding and dependence on portables. We are critically in need of space, according to demographers who project up to a 44% increase in student enrollment in the next decade. Repair/replace infrastructure,such as roofs and HVAC systems, which have exceeded their expected life cycles Upgrade safety systems, including security cameras and secured front-office entrances. Provide high-tech, hands-on math and science classrooms at the middle and high school to train students for the jobs of the future. Build an early learning center. We currently must turn away state- and federally funded (free to us!) preschool classes because of lack of space. Research shows that investing in early learning is one of the most effective ways to systemically increase student achievement. ©TECHNOLOGY FOR 21ST -CENTURY TEACHING ■ A renewal Technology Levy for $896,250 annually for four years (total of $3,585,000). ■ The 2016 Technology Levy will continue our investment in 21st -century classrooms by: – Maintaining and modernizing laptops so students have computers to engage in real- world lessons and to help prepare students with technical career skills. Reshaping traditional classroom tables into collaborative, active - learning spaces with multimedia displays that support project - based learning in science, math, language arts, social studies, and art. Providing innovative professional development for our educators to better support all levels of learners and to allow students take the lead in solving complex problems. School -bus drivers needed Flexible, fun, $19+/hour to start All that yellow horsepower is calling your name! The Tukwila School District is in immediate need of bus drivers. Come get all the benefits of a flexible schedule, summers off, paid training, and the fun of being the first and last smiling face students see every school day. Call now to get on the roads—our kids need you! 206-901-8050. www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2015 .; 13 Tukwila School District #406 OCTOBER 201 5 Foster High's AP Calculus scores soar above state and international expectations! Statistical correlation? Forget it! Foster High's Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus students are skyrocketing past state and international expectations for success. (Okay, to be fair, they will never actually disregard statistical correlations because they love math too much.) This group of numerical whizzes significantly outperformed the average of their Washington and international peers last spring's AP test: 73 percent of their class passed the rigorous exam (55 percent passed at the state/global level) with an average score of 3.15 (compared to the 3.03 state average and the 2.86 global average). Furthermore, 42 percent of Foster's AP Calculus class received a level 4 or 5—the highest possible scores, meaning they are "extremely well qualified" for success in an equivalent college -level course. "I am really proud of all the time and effort they put into this class," said teacher Jeff Lewis. "They created a culture of learning and accomplishment, and it paid off." That's literally true, Lewis added—combined, these students could save more than $100,000 because their AP scores will be accepted as university credits. What's even more exceptional about Foster being one of the top -scoring high schools? Using correlative data from Foster's PSAT scores, grade point average, and demographics, experts would expect students' AP scores to be significantly lower than the state and international average—with a passage rate of about 20 percent. "What that tells me is we need to stop limiting our belief in students based on preconceived ideas or indicators of success," said Tukwila School District Superintendent Nancy Coogan. "Here we are in the most diverse district in the nation, and we are proof that economic or cultural or racial status does Students from last year's high - performing AP Calculus class. on WARNING: We may be unleashing a top- level national secret here, butBatman— preschoolerAndrew Vuong—and Batdad were recently spotted keeping Cascade View safe! (Tuktham? Gothwila?)" not in any way define a child's ability to learn at the highest levels." One of the Tukwila School District's main initiatives is STEAM education, which exposes students to hands-on, real-world problem solving in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. At Foster High School, that includes the opportunity to take challenging Advance Placement courses. In the past four years, Foster has almost doubled the number of AP exams given per year. Just as importantly, educators there are providing students the confidence and support they need to be successful; this summer, for instance, students were invited to an AP Boot Camp to prepare for their college -level classes before the academic year. In AP Calculus, Lewis said students often take advantage of extra time, coming in during the summer or before or after school for help. He works with each student to identify a personal goal for the year, then he emphasizes the importance of maximizing every 55 -minute class period. "My intent is to help kids get a little bit better each day," Lewis said. "That's it. The biggest goals are achieved just one small step at a time, getting perfect at that small step." It's a much less daunting view of AP coursework, especially if a student is apprehensive at first, Lewis explained. Sukhdeep Shergill, a 201 5 graduate, thanks Lewis' instruction and support along with her classmates' collegiality for her high AP Calculus score (along with hard work!). She started Seattle Paci fic University this fall with a math credit and advanced entry into Calculus 2. "We all helped each other a lot," she said. "If somebody didn't understand something, we could always turn to each other and work it out together." Geeta Khanal—another 201 5 graduate who began college with Calculus credits as a freshman at the University of Washington this fall—encourages all students to take AP classes. "You get the college experience while in high school," Khanal said. "You can challenge yourself but still feel like you have the support you need. Especially with Mr. Lewis. He's awesome." By and large, the entire AP Calculus class— past and current—agrees! New Tukwila School District logo Same great district, new great look! :to • Tukwila SCHOOL. DISTRICT Big things were happening in the Tukwila School District in 1997: Voters had just changed the name from South Central and our demographics were quickly evolving as schools welcomed students from across the globe. Adrien Yorozu (now Piro), then a freshman at Foster, captured the spirit of the community perfectly when she won the district's logo - design competition that year; the two -toned "t" -shaped student graphic has since become iconic, representing our diversity and interconnectedness for the past 18 years. But now it's 201 5 and time to refresh that logo to represent our current school com- munity—the vibrant, unique, successful, caring, and innovative place that it has become and aspires to be. To start the process, we interviewed students, parents, staff, cultural liaisons, and community members about what Tukwila means to them. Then almost 400 people offered input on draft logos via an online survey and in-person meetings. Using those initial drafts, Foster High para -professional Julie Lane (and a 2001 alumnus) sketched a variation that incorporated a twist on the shape and shading of the current logo, and— voila!—our new logo took shape. The new design not only bridges our past and future, it reflects our diversity and vibran- cy. The star shape represents student achievement and potential as well as a common inter- national flag symbol. The student/community figures are connected in partnership. The colors showcase hues and cultures from across the globe. Community feedback indicated these were all important and favorable elements. Also significantly, it's got that unique Tukwila touch—because we are, of course, completely and wonderfully unique! Thanks to Adrien and Julie and to the hundreds and hundreds of community members who gave their input. You will see the logo as the foundation for our new website redesign coming in several months, as well as the template for our updated letterhead, business cards, and other official material 14 OCTOBER 2015 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com cover Mayoral race pits experienced councilmen BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM Two Tukwila City Council members who played key roles in guiding Tukwila's development and shaping its quality of life are now running for mayor. Either Allan Ekberg or De'Sean Quinn will replace Jim Haggerton, who is not seeking a third term as mayor. Ballots for the Nov. 3 general election are arriving in mailboxes in Tukwila. Both candidates have chaired key coun- cil committees and served as council presi- dent, Quinn in 2014 and Ekberg in 1992 and 1995, when the council last updated the City's Comprehensive Plan, and again in 2011. Quinn, 43, has served on the council for six years. Ekberg, 56, has served on the council for 15 years, serving two terms starting in 1990. He took a decade off to help raise his family and was elected to the council again in 2009. Ekberg and Quinn were both re-elected in 2013, so one of them will remain on the council to complete that term. Their new terms began in 2014. Quinn, a water -quality planner and proj- ect manager for the King County Wastewa- ter Treatment Division, says his top three issues are improved public safety, protect- ing the character of neighborhoods and improving education. Ekberg, a senior information technology project manager for BECU, says his top three issues are speeding and safe streets, code enforcement and quality of life. Ekberg says his campaign is largely self- funded; he's not accepting contributions from businesses, unions or outside organi- zations. As of Oct. 15, the last report available online before the Tukwila Reporter print deadline, Ekberg had reported $24,367 in contributions and $23,171 in expenditures. His largest financial contributors are his [more MAYOR page 16] AIIan Ekberg, right, visits with Thomas McLeod and McLeod's father Sam at the candidates forum at Tukwila Elementary School in September. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter EKBERG: The Boulevard is perfect place for public -safety building BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM Allan and Trish Ekberg, now married for 30 years, bought a nice two-bedroom house in 1987 that they had to defend al- most immediately. Their home in Riverton was in unincor- porated King County and at the time the county wanted to rezone the single-family neighborhood into light commercial. The neighborhood rose up and eventually, Ek- berg worked with other residents to an- nex Riverton and other neighborhoods to Tukwila in 1989. He then ran for the City Council at age 29. His mantra then was no net loss of single-family neighborhoods, something that still drives him today. "The reason is that the foundation for stability in our city is those single-family residential neighborhoods," he says. In 1995 and again today, Ekberg sits on the City Council at a time when Tuk- wila is updating its Comprehensive Plan, which provides the vision for the growth and development of the city. During the 1995 update, Ekberg was chosen as council president out of turn because of his skills at facilitating meet - "The reason is that the foundation for stability in our city is those single- family residential neighborhoods." AIIan Ekberg, candidate for mayor ings and discussions. This time around, the council scram- bled near the end of the process to change wording after some council members, including Ekberg, expressed reservations the update could lead to urbanization in single-family neighborhoods that resi- dents didn't want or even know about. [more EKBERG page 16 ] De'Sean Quinn hugs a supporter at the candidates forum held at Tukwila Elementary School in September. Dean A. Radford/Tukwila Reporter De'Sean Quinn puts families, neighborhoods at top of agenda BY DEAN A. RADFORD DRADFORD@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM When De'Sean Quinn talks about run- ning for mayor of Tukwila, his thoughts turn to family - his own and the families of Tukwila. He and his family, wife Nichole, and their kids Braxton and Kellen, are in Tuk- wila "by choice and not by chance:' "Tukwila is an amazing place and it's an amazing place to raise my family," Quinn says. "And I am committed to the com- munity" His parents, Henderson and Brenda, raised him to give back to his community, without expecting anything in return. And so did his grandfather, Arthur Sim- mons, who founded a drug -treatment fa- cility in Seattle. "He used to always tell me, `I made sac- rifices to make this a better place for you. And you're going to have to do that for the next generation: So that's why I am in this," Quinn said of his grandfather's ad- vice. It's Quinn's desire to help Tukwila's families and their neighborhoods - and his own family's tradition of giving back to their communities - that has shaped what he would do as the city's next mayor. "Tukwila is a place where the city government says and demonstrates, 'We see you. You matter'." De'Sean Quinn, candidate for mayor He offered this vision for Tukwila at the candidates forum in September at Tuk- wila Elementary School. "Tukwila is a place where the city gov- ernment says and demonstrates to its resi- dents, 'We see you. You matter' It's a place for families to grow and thrive;' he told the forum. [ more QUINN page 16] AIIan Ekberg/from page 14 "The end game is that I don't want Tukwila to look like Bal- lard or Fremont or Seattle, which has a lot of single-family homes next to taller duplexes or taller townhouses;' he said, changing the character of the neighborhoods. That is what concerned Tuk- wila's citizens, too, he said. "I still think there are areas of the city that could be put to a better use for duplexes and townhomes," he said, and that neighborhoods would "relish." He just wasn't an advocate for a process that would allow those housing styles throughout the city nor one that didn't fully in- volve the neighborhoods. Now, the council -adopted update doesn't mention town - homes or duplexes and does mention that such uses would occur only after a robust com- munity -outreach program as the city moves through the pro- cess to implement the Compre- hensive Plan's vision through the zoning code and city regu- lations. "The change gives us the means to slowly move in that direction if a neighborhood voices its desire to;' he said. He'd like to work with neigh- borhoods in a pilot program to fulfill a neighborhood's wishes and as an example for other neighborhoods. Residents who are renting an apartment or single-family home probably couldn't afford the townhomes or duplexes that are being talked about, Ek- berg said. Instead the city needs to en- courage and enable the efforts of such agencies as the King County Housing Authority to acquire existing apartments and rehabilitate them if nec- essary as affordable housing, he said. That's exactly what happened when the housing authority recently purchased apartment complexes in Tuk- wila and Seatac. With lots that are prime for redevelopment on Tukwila In- ternational Boulevard, the city could partner with a health agency to develop a medical facility on a ground floor and low-income housing above, he said, a project the city shouldn't subsidize. The redevelopment of the Boulevard has been "a series of fits and starts" The issue is that the small lots with commercial buildings or apartments bring in "really good income" for the property owners, so there's no incentive for them to do any- thing differently, he said. [ more EKBERG page 16 ] Ekberg's donors As of Oct. 15, Allan Ekberg had received contributions of cash, personal loans or in-kind donations totaling $24,367. Ekberg has contributed $10,500 in personal loans to his campaign, as well as other personal funds which he has disclosed. His Top 10 contributors reported to the Public Disclosure Commission are: • Dennis Robertson, Tukwila, $500 • Louise Strander,Tukwila, $250 • Lanny Vickers,Tukwila, $200 • Jim Bernard,Tukwila, $200 • Jeff Lopez-Stuit, Tukwila,$145 • Vern Meryhew,Tukwila, $100 • Richard Jordan, Seattle, $100 • Paul Tanaka, Seattle, $100 •Tom Balzarini,Tukwila, $100 • Vitaly Krasny, Plano, Texas, $60 Ekberg's bio ALLAN EKBERG PERSONAL: Age, 56, married to Trish Camozzi-Ekberg; they have two children, Karlin, 25, and Erik, 23; served in the U.S. Air Force, 1978-1982; life-long resident of Tukwila, except for years at college and in the military; grew up in Riverton, now lives in McMicken Heights. EDUCATION: 1977 graduate of Foster High School; Riverside City College, associate of applied science, criminal justice, 1981; Humboldt State University, bachelor's degree in business administration, with concentration in Computer Information Systems, minor in speech communication, 1984; University of Phoenix, MBA, 2003; University of Washington, eCommerce certificate. PROFESSION: senior information technology project manager, BECU. POLITICAL ACTIVITIES: Member, Tukwila City Council, 1990-1997 and 2010 to present; member,Tukwila Planning Commission, 2003-2009; member, Tukwila Sign Code Committee, 2008; commissioner, Tukwila Facility Study Committee, 2015; commissioner, Tukwila Metropolitan Park District Board, 2011 -present. COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Member and treasurer, Foster High School Centennial Committee, 2014-2015; member, PTA, while children in school; chairman,TukwilaTransit Advisory, 1998; member, Highway 99 Action Committee, 1998; led citizen effort to annex Riverton into Tukwila, 1988-1989. ENDORSEMENTS: Didn't seek endorsements "in order to start fresh and not be obligated to outside interests:' CONTACT: By phone, 206-241-6904. Website, www.Ekbe rg ForMayor.com. www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2015 15 De'Sean Quinn/from page 14 Quinn distills his ideas into three main areas. First on his list is public safety, which, he said, "is always a chal- lenge:' He would institute foot and bicycle patrols in neighbor- hoods so residents would get to know their neighborhood po- lice officer. The city's Police Department recently received a second fed- eral COPS grant which it will use to directly pay for commu- nity liaisons to the community's diverse population. Such proac- tive efforts by police officers will help prevent criminal activity from spilling over into Tukwila from other communities, he said. Secondly, he wants to protect "our neighborhood character in Tukwila, because that's one of the most amazing things about Tukwila — we have great neigh- borhoods?' To protect the city's single-family neighborhoods, Quinn would drive and support "development where it needs to go, which is the urban center and along the transportation corridors:' That concept has been dis- cussed, he said, and now sup- port must build to make it a reality. Protecting the community's quality of life will require an enhancement of code enforce- ment. To do so would require additional staff "and a little bit more money," he said. There are innovative ways to improve a neighborhood's "look," includ- ing community cleanups and engaging the neighborhoods. Quinn is interested in a neighborhood network, some- thing the city doesn't have to- day. That "little bit of money" he mentioned could go toward city grants that neighborhoods could add to their money for such projects as pocket parks or to clean up a neighbor's prop- erty. "That is how you keep the character but it's also how you share the values," he said. "Here's an opportunity for neighborhoods to really work together." A goal would be to establish the neighborhood networks in his first year in office. Partnering with the Tukwila School District is something he would continue as mayor be- cause a characteristic of a thriv- ing community is a "great edu- cation system," he said. The city and school district already work together on an after-school pro- gram. Quinn said a private - public partnership could raise money that would focus on [ more QUINN page 16 ] Quinn's donors De'Sean Quinn's Top 10 contributors are mostly labor unions, businesses and two individuals. His Top 10 contributors reported to the Public Disclosure Commission as of Oct. 15 are: • Amalgamated Transit Union Cope, Washington, D.C., $950 • Great Wall Investment Ltd., Kent, $950 • Martha Kongsgaard, Seattle, $950 • SEIU 1199 NW, Renton, $950 • SEIU 755, Seattle, $950 • SEIU Healthcare 1199 NW, Renton, $950 • Washington Teamsters Legislative League, Tukwila, $950 • Peter Goldman, Seattle, $750 •Tukwila Firefighters for Democracy, SeaTac, $750 • Black PAC, Seattle, $700 • Samatar Guled, Seattle, $550 Quinn's bio DE'SEAN QUINN PERSONAL: Age, 43, married to Nichole; they have two children, Braxton, 19 months, and Kellen, 7; lived in Tukwila for 13 years, now in theThorndyke neighborhood. Born in Seattle, lived for a number of years in Yakima, before returning to Seattle with his parents. EDUCATION: Graduate of Garfield High School; attended Morehouse College; University of Washington, bachelor's degree in political science, 1999; King County Dispute Resolution Program, certificate, 2006. PROFESSION: water quality planner/project manager, King County Wastewater Treatment Division. POLITICAL ACTIVITIES:Tukwila City Council, member, 2008 -present; County Council relations director and city relations manager for county Executive Ron Sims, 2004-2009; city relations manager for county Executive Dow Constantine, 2010-2012; 11th Legislative District Democrats, member. COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES:Tukwila International Boulevard Action Committee, participant; Forterra board; One America board; Tukwila PTA, participant; Tukwila school bond committee, member; Alpha Phil Alpha Fraternity Inc. MAJOR ENDORSEMENTS: Joe Duffie,Verna Seal, Pam Linder, Georgina Kerr, Mary Fertakis, Dow Constantine, Ron Lamb, Pat Larson, Zack Hudgins, King County Democrats/11th Legislative District Democrats, Aerospace Machinist Union, Amalgamated Transit Union 587, Washington Conservation Voters, Martin Luther King Jr. Labor Council,Teamsters, SEIU 775, International Association of Fire Fighters, Tukwila Local 2088. CONTACT: By phone, 206-331-5939. Website, email, Electdeseanquinn. corn, Deseanquinn4mayor@gmail.com, deseanquinn@gmail.com 16 OCTOBER 2015 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com EKBERG: The Boulevard is perfect QUINN: Economic development place for public -safety building will help keep Tukwila viable [EKBERG from page 15] The income is pure profit, unless the owner is reinvesting into the property, he said. "Apparently, they are not putting money back into it," he said The city is looking at allowing three - and four-bedroom apartments on top of other development, which would encour- age developers to build something new or combine small lots, he said. The city could play an important role in sending a message to the city's crimi- nal element if it built a new public -safety building on the Boulevard that would house the Police Department and the city's courts. The city is looking at how to make best use of its current city facilities, including City Hall, and where to build a new pub- lic -safety building, which Ekberg says has be to on the Boulevard. "The reason for that is the influence of patrol cars that will go in and out of that station will be seen by everyone who is on the Boulevard and will provide such a great low -enforcement presence that I think people will get the message that this is not place to play anymore, in a negative way," he said. The effect of the seizure of troubled motels on the Boulevard is showing in crime statistics, which reveal a drop in robberies and burglaries, Ekberg said. The motels accounted for more than a quarter of the city's police response. "It was crazy," Ekberg said. "Now those officers are more prevalent on the streets." The Police Department is doing a "good job," Ekberg said. "Under this chief we have currently, I think Mike Villa has his heart in the right place." Villa has "whittled out" some of the of- ficers he inherited when he took over as chief, Ekberg said. "His code of ethics is very strong;' Ek- berg said. "He has a lot of expectations for his officers to follow that Code of Ethics. I really respect him for that." Ekberg says it's been his desire for years and years to run for mayor. He knows what he's going to do first if he's elected. "In the first several months, it's going to be drinking from a sponge and having my ears wide open and listening to not only what's going on within the city from a tactical and strategic standpoint but also from a behavioral standpoint," he said. "Who are the people and how do they interact with their staff and how do they interact with me? It's going to take a little bit of time to figure that out;' he said, but as a consultant he's had to "jump right in" at big companies. As mayor, he would like to have a "re- ally strong relationship" with the City Council. But, council members might also get upset with him. "I will want to be transparent and in- clude them in probably more things than they ever wanted to see on their plate;' he said. To use a current issue as an example, he wouldn't want the council to hear from staff at the end of a long process about a "I will want to be transparent and include them in probably more things than they ever wanted on their plate." Allan Ekberg on his relations with the City Council plan to allow townhomes and duplexes in single-family neighborhoods, he said "I want them to be aware of what's go- ing on in the early stages of an issue so they can influence it if they choose to," he said. Ekberg will commit to one new ini- tiative for the first six months, saying he wants "the citizens of Tukwila to be the special interests of the city" He will put in place a mechanism so that he knows about any complaint or is- sue that a citizen brings to anyone in the City of Tukwila. "I want staff to tell me about it, no if, ands buts," he said. Then, he'll track the issue to ensure there was a resolution, which may not al- ways be positive, he said. "I am not promising that everything is going to be taken care of but I will prom- ise that I want to know what's going on from our residents, because my whole reason for running is to bring more re- sponsivity from the city back to its people who live here:' Dean A. Radford can be reached at 425- 255-3484, ext. 5150. [QUINN from page 15] bringing programs to the schools, such as technology and the arts. And, finally on Quinn's list is attracting businesses by "conveying to any large busi- ness out there that Tukwila is a great place to have your business, to build your busi- ness," he said. Tukwila has already built a foundation to do that, pointing to Boeing as an example, which brings working-class and middle-class families to the city. "Economic development is going to be something that helps keep us viable. And with Renton and Kent and Burien at our borders, we need to stay relevant. We need to stay competitive;' he said. Protecting the nature of the city's single- family neighborhood played a key role in spurring the City Council to take a close look at wording in the update of Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan, a "vision document" that's updated every 15 to 20 years. What became contentious, Quinn said, was how to implement the vision; some on the City Council and in the community took the "implementation strategies" liter- ally, concerned they could lead to duplexes and townhomes and smaller lots in single- family neighborhoods based solely on the Comprehensive Plan. While Quinn said that wouldn't have happened, he proposed to the City Council in September new language that removed any mention of townhomes and duplexes and smaller lot sizes in the Comprehensive Plan update. The council approved the new wording. Quinn also added language that spe- cifically called for a robust neighborhood outreach process with mass mailings and neighborhood meetings, before any deci- sions are made about implementing the updated Comprehensive Plan, including allowing townhomes or duplexes. "That's something that wasn't easy to find and clearly spelled out in the comp plan documents," he said. Work is also under way on Tukwila Vil- lage and since the closure of troubled mo- tels on the Tukwila International Boule- vard, crime in the area and even elsewhere in the city has dropped. "The Boulevard is safer than it was two years ago; Quinn said. "But we have a lot more to do. We need to continue to moni- tor the hotels and any activity that's going on up there." Tukwila Village will go a long way to- ward changing the "trajectory" of the Bou- levard and will help the city attract quality developers to the area. In discussing his candidacy, Quinn talks about the importance of his job with two county executives as liaison to the County Council and to cities had in learning how to develop relationships with different branches of government. "It would be a requirement for me to have a good relationship," said Quinn, with the City Council. He would acknowledge the "great ideas" of council members. And he would have council members share the "As long as we have a strong vision, as long as we have someone who has some experience and an ability to solve problems and build relationships, then I think we will be successful." De'Sean Quinn podium and speak when announcing an important accomplishment, such as receiv- ing the COPS grant. Tukwila has a "great" future ahead, Quinn said. He sees more growth and he would "love" to see more sidewalks in the neighborhoods. He hopes to see more de- velopment on Tukwila International Bou- levard and growth in the city's urban center of Southcenter. He wants to see more families choosing Tukwila as a place to live. "I see amazing things for Tukwila's fu- ture, because it's an amazing place to live;' Quinn said. "As long as we have a strong vision, as long as we have someone who has some experience and an ability to solve problems and build relationships, then I think we will be successful." Dean A. Radford can be reached at 425- 255-3484, ext. 5150. [MAYOR from page 15] campaign treasurer, Dennis Robertson, a fellow City Council member, who has do- nated $500, and Louise Strander, a Tukwila community leader, who has donated $250. Ekberg has loaned his campaign $10,500 in personal funds. As of Oct. 15, Quinn has reported $28,191 in contributions and $24,917 in expenditures Quinn has received substantial support from labor unions and businesses, includ- ing the Great Wall Investment Group Ltd., which contributed $950 to his campaign. The principals in the investment group are Omar and Christine Lee, who are building the 19 -story Washington Place in Southcenter. Quinn's largest contributions from Tuk- wila residents are $350 each from Ron and Nancy Lamb. Both candidates use similar terms in de- scribing themselves as mayor — visionary, hands-on, engaged. "I am a strategic and tactical thinker;" said Ekberg. "So I will come in with the vi- sion and let them (staff) run with it. If it's not working well, then I will throw in some tactical approaches:' And Quinn uses the adjective "account- able:' "I will hold myself to a very high stan- dard, because I witnessed what leadership looked like; Quinn said, while working for leaders in county government. "And I would make sure that my standard that I hold for myself is also a high standard that we would want for staff. Because we are there for the public:' Dean A. Radford can be reached at 425- 255-3484, ext. 5150. SWEET CREAM CHEESE CREPE -It fora limited time only .K SWEET. CRUMBLY. CREAMY. FRUITY. 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COMPANIONSHIP with people who live an active lifestyle. 55+ Independent Community for Seniors One and Two Bedroom Apartments with Washer/Dryer itBOULEVARD PARK PLACE 2805 S.125th St. • Burien, WA 98168 206.243.0300 www.boulevardparkplace.com 1 8 OCTOBER 2015 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com ri rim* Ckr4rfrfcrot. There are many Halloween characters. Fill in the blanks to name some of them. • VA I RES © WE EW LVES Z MBIE O GH S S ® GO INS O ITCH S 0) MU IES se!wwniN (L `seyo4IM (g `suiIgop (g `stsogC ({, `selgwoz (g 'senionneaaM (Z 'sealdWleA (I, :s emsuv QFC, Quality Food Centers www.QFC.com Halloween Treat Bucket Select Varieties & Sizes $ 1 With Card b stoanal selection varies re and is limited to stack on band. Halloween Cupcakes Select Varieties, 12 ct, In the Bakery 699 With Card Pumpkin Carving Kit Select Varieties 40°% off Shelf Tag Reflects Savings With Card Hershey's Candy Select Varieties, Snack Size, 36.22-40.93 oz Bag 79 With Card Freschetta Pizza Select Varieties, 14.54-30.88 oz 399 With Card Prices Good at your local QFC store Friday, October 23 through Tuesday, October 27, 2015 1 ween happ.ernings Find the seven differences between the two pictures. Answers ‘glidr; n+k NMS °/ '*s� �r. 7-'Z, Q: What kind ofP ants do\ ghosts like to wear? •sueafoo8 :v Q: How dop hantoms travel? i]sog6 of 1so4J :b' • ... = Olde Fashion Halloween Party Saturday, October 24 Main Street Square, UI'SLIJ.a f 1 1 0 � $troll Pop Painting 1 p.m. Downtown - 4 p.m. Renton block Main Ave SJ gico Popcorn •iarmel apples ft Carnivaligalnes & prizes. Downtown for Trick or Treating BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTIES NOW!!I CENTRALAVE. �. 1,253-850-3550] 1-I�I1 ;7 ©orlelay C'e `--781-9303. Bounce Indoor Play Center 253-243-7606 1404 Central Ave S #110 Kent, WA 98032 www.BounceKent.com 1441387 Heritage BANK HeritageBankNW.com 800.455.61261 Member FDIC CURIAW RAN REAL ESTATE, WILLS & PROB FAMILY LAW, r 555 WEST SMITH STREET KENT, WA 98032 253-852-2345 WWW.CURRANFIRM.COM ALa Ween Co1orin3l—ontest u0Nr IW 6LAHC WE WILL MAKE You Tj V SthWARTZ dO SALON 253.856.1355 207E MEEKER ST KENT, WA CARPINIT — BROTHERS— llll kaiti Y %Jll MAZE FARM FUN YARDP Pumpkin Patch 9am - 6:30pm Farm Fun Yard & Corn Maze 9am- 6pm OPEN DAILY until Halloween 1 www.carpilthto.c www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » OCTOBER 2015 19 This October, pancakes are getting scary. TUK 17250 Southcenter Pkwy • 206-575-0330 SEA TAC Marternational Blvd • 206-510 A Better Pizza, Always A Better Deal - CAN At AM eal'" CANS IZZAI PIZZA • PASTA • SUBS • CALZONES • RIBS • GYROS 23819 104"h Ave SE • Kent • 253-856-7777 1 QbssInIQ Free Gift Offe Sat.,Oct. 31 Only Happy 1-1ullsween!! 6 Wear Pink in / October & Receive 4 *4 20% Off Service TUK Name Phone Age Address City Zip Please mail or bring your completed entry to Tukwila Reporter: 19426 68th Ave. S., Kent, WA 98032. Open to all ages, however, only kids up to 13 years old are eligible to win. One entry per person. Entries must be received by Friday, October 30, 2015 at 5:OOp.m. to be eligible for prizes. Employees of participating sponsors are not eligible to win. Winners will be announced in the Tukwila Reporter on Friday, November 18, 2015. No photo copies of entries. State Farm® Providing Insurance and Financial Services Home Office, Bloomington, Illinois 61710 Jim Sullivan Agent 1520 Duvall Avenue NE, PO Box 2259 Renton, WA 98056-0259 Bus: 425.226.3322 Fax: 425.228.9001 www.jimsullivaninsurance.com Se habla espanol StateFarm' 1422687 GREAT FOOD AMAZING HAPPY HOUR COMFY LAID BACK ATMOSPHERE 253-277-1852 321 Ramsay Way Suite 110, Kent, WA 98032 at Kent Station BURGE2=--ADDICT ". ww.yourburgeraddiction.com irb1 Garlic Fries or Milkshake' 1 With in-store purchase of one reg. Burger I I With Coupon 10-31-15 ONLY. Not Valid with delivery I 2435 Maple Valley Hwy 425-970-4100 lit $20 Minimum 5 Mile Evening Delivery 203 S. 2nd St, Ste F, Renton,98057 11) 425-255-0385 rrj www.abyssiniabeautyclinic.com SALES • SERVICE • PARTS 25441 104"' Ave SE • Kent, WA 98030 253-854-2892 FOOD SO GOOD... 4414 donut rc c (253) 854-1210 3 807 W. Valley Hwy ill Kent, WA KITtH€N.(OM 1439755 Am - 4' f EAST HILL FIRE FACTORY. Local Owners Putting You First 25239 104th Ave SE Kent, WA 98030 Ph 253-852-3280 www.easthilltire.com All Major Brands Tires & Custom Wheels Complete Automotive Service Napa Auto Center c Kabab 253-520-2440 24023 104th Ave SE Kent WA 98031 www.currykababkent.com 20 OCTOBER 2015 « www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com We need De'Sean Quinn's knowledge and relationships with regional leaders to give Tukwila a voice in issues that impact us. Ron Lamb De'Sean Quinn is the candidate who will lead Tukwila through change. He builds strong relationships, listens to the voices of all stakeholders, and will make decisions based on what is good for Tukwila, not what's good for a few. Pat Larson De'Sean is a man of great integrity with a positive, healthy plan for the people and community of Tukwila. Edna Morris De'Sean Quinn's Qualifications: We need a considerate person in the office of Mayor of Tukwila and De'Sean is that person. De'Sean will lead this city into the future and move us forward. Joe Duffle, Tukwila City Councilmember In all the years I've known and worked with De'Sean, he has lived his motto, "I see you. You matter." That's why I wholeheartedly support De'Sean Quinn. Verna Seal, Tukwila City Councilmember A Leader in Education: Strengthened the relationships with our school districts. Helped to ensure funding for the after school programs when others wanted to cut that budget. With one son already in the Tukwila school district and his youngest soon to be joining him, De'Sean will make sure our education system receives the funding it deserves. A Leader in Safety: Secured funding police officers for first COPS grant, ensured funding and led efforts to eliminate and seize the unsafe motels on Tukwila International Boulevard. Secured funding to restore the Neighborhood Resource Center on TIB. A Leader in Protecting Our Neighborhoods: Crafted the 2015 compromise for the Comprehensive Plan that protects neighborhoods and establishes outreach by neighborhood. Supported the rental licensing program and strengthened the program to ensure that rental properties get inspected on a regular basis. Protected Allentown from additional truck traffic and encroachment of the railroad facility. A Leader in Protecting the Environment: Provided funding for Duwamish Gardens, Duwamish Hill Preserve, and Codiga Park, chaired the "tree committee" to protect Tukwila's natural heritage, created the new program "See You in the Park." De'Sean Quinn For Tukwila Mayor The ONLY mayor cayor ndidatetor TERg F REFIGH Paid for by Committee to Elect De'Sean Quinn for Tukwila Mayor PO Box 58822, Tukwila, 98138