tukwila reporter 06 • 2013
Summer DRINKS Summer COOL
SCHOOL CONNECTIONS: Tukwila School District update, pgs. 14-15
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Sound Transit to start building new station SHUNTER@ TUKWILAREPORTER.COM
Sound Transit will start construction Monday on a new $46 million Tukwila Sounder Station to replace the temporary facility. A groundbreaking cer-
emony is set for 10 a.m. Monday, June 24, at the station, 7301 Longacres Way. Construction is expected to be completed by fall 2014. “The goal of this project is to accommodate current and future demand for ridership on a popular commuter rail route that
serves up to 10,400 boardings each weekday by improving rider access to this location,” said Kimberly Reason, Sound Transit spokeswoman, in an email. Voters in 1996 approved the Sound Move ballot measure, which included Tukwila Station as one of
Sound Transit will start construction this month on a new $46 million Sounder Station. Courtesy graphic, Sound Transit
nine stations that serve South Line Sounder. That measure approved Sound Transit’s regional transit authority (RTA) taxing base of a 0.9 retail sales tax as well as a 0.3 percent vehicle license tabs tax for those in the Sound Transit district. Sound Transit delayed construction of a permanent station to allow the cities of Tukwila and Renton to complete their longrange transportation plans,
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Reason said. Sound Transit opened the temporary facility in 2000. “Now that these planning efforts are complete, Sound Transit is able to move forward with construction of the permanent station,” Reason said. Sound Transit is funding the station through its retail sales tax and vehicle license tab tax as well as $14.2 million in grants. That includes $8 million in federal HighSpeed Intercity Passenger Rail funds; $4.6 million in Federal Transportation Administration (FTA) American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds; and $1.5 million in FTA formula funds. Besides serving Sound Transit riders, the station also handles Amtrak’s four trains per day and numerous King County Metro Transit buses, including the new Rapid Ride F system
to begin in June 2014 that will operate between Burien, SeaTac, Tukwila and Renton. That bus service will replace Route 140. There also are a variety of other bus routes that meet the commuter trains and link the commuter train passengers to their work sites throughout Tukwila, South Seattle and Renton, said Moira Carr Bradshaw, a Tukwila city planner. “The services offered by all the station’s transportation partners is a great benefit for the city’s businesses, employers, and residents,” Carr Bradshaw said. The improvements with a permanent station include 390 parking spaces (up from 208); improved walkways for pedestrians and bicyclists and a secure bicycle structure to hold 40 bikes as well as bike lockers and racks to hold 36 other bicycles. The station will feature two 600-foot long platforms with shelters, ramps, stairs and ticket vending machines. Crews also will improve the underpass connecting the two platforms. The temporary station will remain open during construction of the new station along the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) railroad tracks. Planning partners with Sound Transit for the station include the City of Tukwila; City of Renton; King County Metro Transit; BNSF Railway; Amtrak; Boeing Company; and the Washington State Department of Transportation. For more information, visit www.soundtransit. org/Projects-and-Plans/ Tukwila-Sounder-Station.
The details New Tukwila Sounder Station What: Sounder Station Groundbreaking Ceremony When: 10 a.m. Monday, June 24 Where: 7301 Longacres Way 794107
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Tukwila to celebrate the 4th grand style 8:30-10 p.m. – The High Rollers Band 10 p.m. – Fireworks display
Tukwila will celebrate the nation’s birthday with the Family 4th at Fort Dent Park July 4. It’s a day full of fun, food and the fireworks at 10 p.m. The festivities begin at 9 a.m., when the park opens to the public. Organized activities begin at 4 p.m. As usual, barbecues and portable grills are allowed only in designated areas; pets must be on a leash. And, fireworks are not allowed within Tukwila city limits. Here’s the schedule: • 9 a.m. – Park opens to the public. Parks and Recreation Department staff will be on-site for event set-up and to answer any questions; look for the red information tent. 4 p.m. – Kids inflatable bouncers begin, free 4 p.m. – Kids hands-on activity area 4 p.m.-7 p.m. – Roving clowns 6 p.m.-9 p.m. – Games 2U – 4D Theater 7 p.m.-9 p.m. – Roving entertainment by Eric Haines, stilt walker and juggling
Food vendors • Reigning Kettle Corn – kettle corn and water. • H&D Foods – Elephant ears, hot dogs, sausage, garlic French fries, corn dogs, root beer, lemonade, soda and water. • My Newt Mini Donuts and Shaved Ice – Mini donuts and Hawaiian shave ice. • California Pizza Kitchen – Spicy chicken quesadilla appetizers, pizza by the slice, lemonade bar. • Cow-boyz – Ice cream
The High Rollers Band is playing right before the the big fireworks show.
Stage schedule 4:30-6 p.m. – The Mark Whitman Band 6 p.m. – Welcome by Mayor Jim Haggerton 6:10 pm – Presentation of Colors, Girl Scout Troop No. 704 6:15 p.m. – National Anthem sung by Tukwila fireighter Cathy Browning 6:30-8 p.m. – Alma Villegas
Then comes the 5th cleanup Volunteers are needed to help clean up Fort Dent Park following the big Fourth of July celebration. The work party is 6:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. July 5 at the park, 14800 Starfire Way, Tukwila. Volunteers are needed to assist with cleaning up debris and garbage at Fort Dent Park. The city will provide equipment. Just show up to help; no registration is required.
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Sound Transit will break ground on a new Sounder transit station this month in Tukwila
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One of the biggest parties of the year is a birthday party at Fort Dent marking the birth of our great nation
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Other opportunities • Tukwila Sister Cities Committee will be selling glow items such as necklaces, hair extensions, light sabers, glasses, etc. Most glow items cost $5. Popcorn and candy concession sales too. Cash only. • Tukwila CERT & Block Watch with information about current and future community programs. For information about the Jul 4 celebration and other Tukwila special events, call the Tukwila Community Center at 206-768-2822 or visit the city website at http://www. ci.tukwila.wa.us/recreation/recevent.html
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newfriends
First graders at Tukwila Elementary School have developed a new friendship with a centenarian with whom they have much in common
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classof2013
Foster High School graduated about 175 seniors last week at the school’s stadium
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coverstory
With the arrival of summer comes the chance to cool off in Tukwila with some alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks.
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Tukwila talks about schools
Tukwila centenarian wows first graders at Tukwila school BY DEAN A. RADFORD EDITOR@ TUKWILAREPORTER.COM
At 100, Thelma Flaquinti still finds it easy to relate to 6 and 7 year olds. The centenarian, who turns 101 on Sept. 18, spent some time Wednesday with the first graders in Sandra Munoz’s class at Tukwila Elementary School. They already know each other a little, having exchanged special cards over the last several months, including for Valentine’s Day and Easter. The cards hang on Flaquinti’s bedroom door. Munoz has been connecting her students with someone who is 100 years old for several years. Flaquinti is the mother of Elaine Canon, who taught in the Tukwila schools for 45 years, including at Tukwila Elementary School. Flaquinti lives with her daughter in Tukwila. She was born in 1912 in Minneapolis. For most of her life, she was a stay-at-home-
Mya Campo works on the letter she was writing for Thelma Flaquinti. Dean A. Radford, Tukwila Reporter
mom says Canon. The students had cards all ready for her again Wednesday. Mya Campos’s was typical. It read: Dear Mrs Flaquinti You are a nice person. You are the best. You are awesome. Love Mya. Flaquinti writes back with the help of her daughter. “The kids are just thrilled,” Munoz said, when they receive her letters. For the visit, the first grades made a sign welcoming Flaquinti. They stood outside their classroom with the sign as she
approached down the hallway, smiling. Then they posed for photos. Inside, the students sat on the floor in front of Flaquinti and her daughter and their teacher, excited finally to meet their new friend. It was, perhaps, the first time they had met a centenarian. Each related something they liked to do, from playing basketball, to reading, to solving math problems to roller-skating to jumping rope. Mya’s nickname is “monkey”
“I like the monkey bars,” she told Flaquinti. It turns out Flaquinti was an accomplished jump roper at that age. “Oh, I used to jump rope. I used to jump rope to 500,” she said, to the amazement of the students. They were given the challenge to go outside and count to 500 jump roping. And Flaquinti roller skated, using a hockey stick as a brake. She was athletic, playing baseball, even before high school in a traveling women’s league. She graduated from Roosevelt High School in Seattle during the Depression. Munoz said the connections she’s making between her students and centenarians are both educational and social, helping them with their writing skills and teaching that you can have a friend of any age. Munoz stresses the importance of family. “We try to nurture that feeling of respect and compassion for all people,” she said.
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100-year-old Thelma Flaquinti poses with the first graders in Sandra Munoz’s (in the background) class at Tukwila Elementary School. Flaquinti and the students shared experiences, including roller skating. Dean A. Radford, Tukwila Reporter
Tukwila School District’s new superintendent Nancy Coogan hosted a conversation to address race and other topics of interest within the district. About 50 parents, School Board members, community partners and administrators voiced their opinions and suggestions to the new administration May 28 at the Foster High School PAC. Those attending included Mark Wahlstrom, School Board president, Pat Larson, newly appointed principal of Foster High School, and Mellody Matthes, the interim superintendent, along with other administrators. Caprice Hollins, former Seattle Public Schools director of equity and race relations, facilitated the conversation. As community members spoke, both Coogan and Larson took extensive notes. One of the main concerns expressed by the crowd was the diversifica-
tion of the teaching staff in the district. Many wished that there were more teachers of color, but Jennifer Johnson, candidate for the Tukwila School Board, believes that teachers can still connect with students who are of a different race or culture. “Just because (the teaching staff doesn’t) look like a child that doesn’t mean they aren’t sensitive to the challenges the student faces,” Johnson said. Another topic of conversation focused on sustaining any changes made within the district. Coogan told the crowd that in collaboration with the School Board and other administrators, she will draft a three-year strategic plan to mark the progress the district is making in various areas. Many members of the audience appreciated this effort and hoped more conversations like the one held that night would continue throughout the year. “We have to start somewhere, and this is a great start,” said one community member.
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The Tukwila Reporter encourages reader participation in your community newspaper. Share your thoughts in a letter to the editor (200 words or less) including your full name, address and phone number. HERE’S HOW To submit a letter to the editor, E-MAIL: submissions@ tukwilareporter.com FAX: 253.437.6016 MAIL: 19426 68th Ave S, Ste. A, Kent, WA 98032 CALENDAR/EVENTS: calendar@ tukwilareporter.com
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Tough times for schools, board Change is in the air at Tukwila School District (TSD). A new superintendent. A new Foster principal. School board elections are coming soon. Voters in the first and third district will be the decision makers. District 1 has three school board candidates: incumbent (17 years) Mary Fertakis, John Barbee and Jennifer Johnson. District 3 has two candidates: incumbent (4 years) Alicia Waterton and Bobby Cruz. District 1 candidates are excellent. District 3 candidates are good. Chuck Parrish This election is different. Last year, there was an intense effort from some school district employees and community members to force Fertakis to resign her position. Strong push back from other community members ended that effort. Change is better sought through the election process. To the benefit of all, voters now have choices. There have been other troubling developments. The district is awaiting a decision from the
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in response to complaints from Tukwila School District employees. This year nine African-American district employees filed suit against the district for racial discrimination. In the past year, Tukwila School District has lost several key personnel including the district superintendent. It has been ugly. The buck stops with the school board. This is where accountability, however one judges it, has to take place. Incumbents will talk about their experience. That is important. If experience is the
only consideration, challengers should simply go home. How about the ability to anticipate and deal with problems before they become major issues to be adjudicated in courts and commissions? There is general agreement that an all-white school board does not reflect the diversity of the community and student population it serves. Regardless of legal outcomes, the unrest in the school district is such that it is difficult to imagine good things happening without some changes in board leadership, energy and direction. Instead, voters are asked to
elect the same board members. How does accountability enter the picture? The school board needs directors with exceptional social skills and community awareness. The ability to engage in respectful, collaborative interactions with staff, teachers and community members is paramount. Directors must be intentional in attitude and action to address real or perceived shortcomings in policy implementation. Voters, too, must be intentional. If the past is prologue, then it is likely that only a small group of regular voters will decide this election. In off-year elections, general election voter turnout is normally poor and turnout in primaries is even worse. Regardless of election outcomes, let us remember that school board members volunteer their time and energy without pay. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Our school board members do their best and deserve our thanks for their service. Chuck Parrish can be reached at editor@tukwilareporter.com.
Foster IGNITED with possibilities At Foster High School, we know how crucial it is for our students to pursue a post-secondary education. Many challenges already face the high school graduate: rising tuition, limited enrollment, a recovering job market, and a rapidly changing workforce, to name just a few. In this new world, students must prepare for success, and it’s our job to help them. To that end, several years ago we created Advisory classes, in which students use the Navigation 101 curriculum to help prepare for life after high school (you can visit their website at
navigation101.com). In Advisory, students learn about career preparation and college readiness. As we continue to develop our Advisory classes, one of our chief goals is to help students Josh Stevenson understand the actual paths they might follow to certain careers or occupations. To this end, our advisories work to teach students how to plan for their future: how to understand their
graduation requirements, how to choose courses of study, and how to ensure that all their time in high school is valuably spent. An equally important goal is to help our students understand that they can, in fact, achieve anything. They can go to college; they can enter advanced careers. In our advisories, we help students understand how to set and reach these goals, and we help our students work towards reaching them, through teaching advocacy, good study habits, and college and career awareness. Through such programs as Navigation 101 and IGNITE (a
new program in which older students work as role models and mentors for younger students) we continue to teach positive academic skills, mentorship, and the value of working together. We continue to help students understand and prepare for a successful life beyond high school. We’re excited for next year; and we’re looking forward to working with you, the Tukwila community, as we continue this effort. Josh Stevenson is a teacher at Foster High School.
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Foster High School CLASS OF 2013
Commencement for the Foster High School Class of 2013 (here in the class photo taken earlier) was Friday, June 14, at the Foster High School Stadium. About 175 seniors received their diplomas. Student speakers were Emina Dacic and Huan Nguyen. Tukwila School District
Two Foster High School graduates, Micah Breland, left, and Miguel Maestas are headed for college. Michelle Conerly, Tukwila Reporter
Two Bulldogs who made a difference FOSTER’S TOP 10: Top row, from left, Kumar Khanal, Naufal Rizaldy, Ngoc Tran, Eduardo Rojas and Huan Nguyen (salutatorian); bottoom row, from left, Esmeralda Bailon, Moa Arquiza (valedictorian), Charanpreet Samra. Michelle Conerly, Tukwila Reporter
Here are two Foster High School graduates who worked hard in and out of the classroom and in their community. The stories are by Michelle Conerly.
Miguel Maestas: Passion for service For Miguel Maestas, senior at Foster High School, being a leader is in his blood.
His uncle, Roberto Maestas, was a longtime social justice activist in the greater Seattle area who also founded El Centro de La Raza, a community center for the Latino and Spanish-speaking community. Drawing from his late uncle’s passion and activism, it is no wonder that Maestas was award[ more GRADS page 7 ]
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For Micah Breland, captain of the Foster High School football and basketball teams and a member of the track team, there’s more to life than just sports. Not only is Breland ASB president and a part of the National Honor Society, he also gives back to the community that raised him by volunteering with Young Life, a Christian youth group, and being an Ignite youth mentor as well. “My passion is to help those who have been through a lot,” Breland said. It is those accomplish-
what he learned on the field in the classroom and other areas in his life. “With sports being a big part of my life, it helps me deal with people in general,” he said. With the motivation and determination to succeed, Breland advises others to not limit themselves and pursue their dreams. “You are your own greatest enemy,” he said. “Don’t close a door before you walk through it.”
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Micah Breland: Not just athlete
said. And with a good head on his shoulders, Breland believes that being a good person and well-rounded student precedes any successes earned on the field. “If I can’t communicate with people, what’s the point of playing sports?” Breland said. “I realize you have to be a student first.” But knowing school and sports could propel him far in life, Breland put his heart and soul into both, using
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ed the Act Six scholarship, a full tuition, full need award based on service and leadership, to attend Gonzaga University in the fall. The scholarship requires all recipients to meet once a week for the seven months prior to college to discuss societal issues and develop leadership skills. This fall, Maestas will join three other students in attending Gonzaga with “a sense of purpose as serviceminded leaders and agents of transformation” according to the Act Six website. “They have a cool, progressive message,” Maestas said of Gonzaga’s Jesuit tradition and teachings--a very similar message Maestas was taught once arriving to the Pacific Northwest. Moving from his hometown of Albuquerque to Seattle two days before beginning high school, Maestas encountered people from all backgrounds and races, something he’d never experienced before. From there, he decided bridging the gap between people of different cultures was an issue worth fighting. “I want to be a social justice leader (and) make people aware of the issues,” he said. Witnessing the changes his uncle made for people of all creeds and colors, Maestas was inspired to follow in his footsteps. “I’ve always just been around that culture of standing up for what is right,” he said. “My family has taught me and trained me to stand up for what I believe in, (and) it’s about making a change in the community.”
ments paired with his skill on the field that earned Breland a full-ride scholarship to attend Idaho State University this fall. Although Breland received multiple offers from schools around the country, he appreciated the balance between school and sports he witnessed with the Idaho Bengals. “I see the focus on academics not only in the admissions office but (with) the coach as well,” Breland
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TUKWILA CITY PAGES City offices will be closed on Thursday, July 4
CV
ouncil oice
by Kathy Hougardy, 2013 Council President
Saturday radio communications event On Saturday, June 22 the Tukwila Emergency Communications Team (TECTeam) invites you to join them for their annual Field Day exercise, held from 12:00–5:00pm, at Tukwila Fire Station 51, at 444 Andover Park East. This exercise is part of the national annual Field Day event, organized by the American Radio Relay League, the national association for amateur radio. The purposes of Field Day are multifold. This drill is an opportunity to: simulate setting up and operating communications equipment in less-than-ideal emergency circumstances; educate the public on the value of communications during an emergency; get unlicensed citizens “on the air� making radio contacts across the state or country; and it’s a competition to make as many radio contacts as possible during the event, while promoting interest in the hobby and having fun! Visitors can try their hand at operating a High Frequency radio (no license necessary as they’ll be accompanied by a licensed operator), learn about the communications facets of the City’s Emergency Preparedness plan, learn about the volunteer opportunities with the TECTeam, and get any questions answered relating to amateur radio or emergency communications. The Tukwila Emergency Communications Team was formed 18 months ago, recruiting volunteers who live or work in Tukwila to learn about amateur radio communications (also known as “ham radio�), emergency preparedness, formal incident command structure, and other skills needed in an emergency. The Team is providing its time and skills to the City of Tukwila Office of Emergency Management for deployment in the event of an emergency requiring unconventional communications. Experience has shown that traditional communications – cell phone, landline phone, commercial radio, Internet – can be impacted early on in an emergency. Amateur radio communications get through when these other systems which rely heavily on infrastructure fail.
Ideas for summer fun in Tukwila (part 1) One of the things I love about living in Tukwila is that we have the advantages of living in a large metropolitan area, and yet Tukwila still retains the small town feel. In fact, you don’t even need to leave town for summer activities. Our city does a great job of providing things to do and places to go with friends and neighbors. Here are some of the upcoming events that you can enjoy this summer; I’ll give you even more suggestions next month.
EVERYONE
KIDS
Kids need some run-around and get-it out-oftheir-system time? Drop them off at Cascade View Community or Foster Memorial Park for the SUMMER PLAYGROUND PROGRAM. It’s for children ages 5–12 and it’s free! Times are 11AM to 2PM, Monday–Thursday, July 1 through August 22. (The hours may be adjusted for For more information about the TECTeam or to learn bad weather.) In conjunction with the City of more about amateur radio, its relevance in the 21st cen- Seattle, Tukwila offers the FREE Summer Sack tury and its use in Emergency Preparedness, visit the Lunch Program for the first 100 participants daily, ages 1—18. Lunchtime is 11:15AM—12:15PM TECTeam website at www.TukwilaRadioClub.org. at the Tukwila Community Center, and 12:00—12:30PM Council Chat is a monthly Council chance at Cascade View Community to stop by and informally Chat talk with one of your Tukwila City and Foster Memorial Parks, Councilmembers about anything Monday thru Friday. Lunches on your mind regarding are served at each location your community. regardless of the weather. Come join the talk from 10:00AM to 12:00PM at FOSTER GOLF CLUBHOUSE Next 13500 Interurban Ave S
Tukwila students learn about connection between stormwater and healthy frogs
In 2003 the City of Tukwila imposed a Utility Tax and added surcharge to Seattle City Light customers as a contract fee. The City established policy to rebate these additional taxes and contract surcharge fees to low-income seniors (62 or older) or permanently disabled residents who may be eligible for electric and natural gas utility rebates.
Frogs and stormwater quality were the emphasis for this year’s public education and outreach at Tukwila Elementary School. As part of its Surface Water Management Program, Tukwila’s Public Works Department provided a storm water presentation to Mrs. Fisher’s third grade class on May 16, 2013. The surface water presentation was in support of the students currently learning about recycling and
â—† At least 62 years of age or permanently disabled. â—† Have combined income of less than $31,150 or â—† Be a Puget Sound Energy or Seattle City Light customer.
KIDS AND YOUTH CAMPS
OUTDOORS & SPORTS
Need someplace for your kids to go during the summer while you are at work, or do you want to get them off the couch and away from their video games? Send them to Tukwila Parks and Rec SUMMER CAMPS. Their days will be full of activities that include field trips, games, arts and crafts, swimming and more. There are now even specialty camps including Critter Camp (animals), Fashion, Cooking and Theater, and of course many different sports. Extended camp hours are available for working parents. Also, ask about the revamped financial assistance program to make camp affordable for your family budget.
TUKWILA PARKS AND REC PROGRAMS will host summer outdoor field trips for adults and older children, including hiking and white water rafting. They also offer swimming lessons, martial arts courses, and adult fitness classes. Summer sports camps for kids include baseball, cheer, basketball, tennis and soccer.
TEENS Middle and High Schoolers: After your last day of school on June 18, head on down to the football field for the SUMMER KICKOFF FESTIVAL FOR TEENS at Werner Neudorf Stadium. There will be lots of great events including obstacle courses, bouncers, 9-hole mini golf, volleyball, basketball tournaments with trophies, video game systems, and lots of great food at prices teenagers can afford. Then you can keep up with your friends at the SUMMER TEEN LATE NIGHTS every Friday from June 21 through August 16, at both the Tukwila Pool and Tukwila’s Community Center.
SENIORS The TUKWILA COMMUNITY CENTER has some great, creative trips lined up this summer for adults 50 years young and over, including Suquamish Museum, a Grandparent/ Grandchild trip to the zoo (how fun is that!), outdoor theater and a Mariner’s baseball game. There are also several different transportation options offered by Tukwila to get you where you need to be. Call 206-768-2822 or check your Parks and Recreation brochure for more information.
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT MOVIES ON THE GREEN (at Foster Golf Links) and the FAMILY OUTDOOR SUMMER CINEMA (at the Tukwila Community Center) will offer free outdoor movies on certain evenings throughout the summer. For more information, check your Parks Brochure or visit www. tukwilawa.gov/recreation/recmain.html. Do you like being involved in the performing arts? Tukwila’s Community Center offers arts classes for kids and adults in dance, music, piano and ukulele.
LOVERS OF FLORA & FAUNA A Tukwila GARDEN PARTY AND TOUR event will be held on July 13, featuring select gardens of our own Tukwila residents. The $10 pre-admission, or $15 admission on the day of the event, will include the tours, snacks and refreshments, plus musical entertainment. The Community Center is offering a class series titled Grow, Eat, Grow, featuring farm tours, an introduction to composting, and a class on raising and keeping chickens. Is it time for your dog to become a well-mannered pup? There are obedience classes for that, too, at the Community Center.
LOVERS OF SALES & BARGAINS On August 17 & 18, it’s the 20th Annual TUKWILA COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE! Whether shopping for some treasures or selling for some extra cash, this event will make you happy!
Chat: NEED MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THESE EVENTS? July 13 Unless otherwise listed, you can call the Tukwila Community Center at 206-768-2822; consult the Parks and Recreation Spring/Summer Activities Guide, or visit the City’s website at TukwilaWA.gov
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You may be eligible for 2012 utility tax rebates
less than $27,250 if single.
FAMILIES & KIDS OF ALL AGES
Summer’s a great time to enjoy the TUKWILA POOL. Enjoy lessons, lap swims, fitness classes, and various open swims every day of the week. New programs include a Female-Only Swim and the Tukwila Tiger Sharks Summer Swim Team. Three special events will be offered: Splash into Summer on June 22; a Scout’s Swim Day on July 20, where Scouts can complete skills needed to earn merit badges and interest projects; and a Floating Movie Night on August 31. Call 206-267-2350 for more information.
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Criteria for eligibility
TUKWILA’S FAMILY 4TH starts at 4:00PM at Fort Dent Park, starting with food, activity booths and entertainment, and ending with the annual fireworks display at 10:00pm. King County Library again hosts their SUMMER READING PROGRAM. Kids track books they have read and receive prizes just for reading. The Library also will be hosting storytimes in English, Somali and Spanish. Take advantage of additional programs that the library offers, including computer help, classes on job hunting skills, play groups for preschoolers and their caregivers, a teen book club, and art/drama/science times for kids. Go to KCLS.org or call 206-242-1640 for more information.
MAYOR: Jim Haggerton COUNCIL PRESIDENT: Kathy Hougardy
i 11
Required â?– Completed application and notarized information supplemental affidavit at the Finance Department due by in Tukwila City Hall. June 30, 2013
â?– Copy of 2012 Income Tax Return. â?– Copy of Puget Sound Energy or Seattle City Light 12/31/12 billing statement as verification of customer account status.
Payment process
Those applicants determined to be eligible will receive a rebate check from the City based on the actual taxes and surcharges paid for 2012. For additional information, call Fiscal Coordinator Lily Jue at 206-433-7190.
Mayor’s Message
The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting has been awarded to Tukwila for its 2011 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR). This attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management, the highest level of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting. These awards are issued by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA), a non-profit professional association that promotes the professional management of governments with policies and practices that enhance sound financial management of public resources. The CAFR was evaluated by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, including the demonstration of a constructive “spirit of full disclosure�, to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR. At the May 28 City Council Meeting this Certificate was presented to Finance Director Peggy McCarthy, along with an Award of Financial Reporting Achievement for an individual, department or agency designated by the government as primarily responsible for preparing the award-winning CAFR. The City is proud to receive recognition for our high standards in financial reporting. You can find this document online at TukwilaWA.gov/Finance/CAFR_2011.pdf.
Jim Haggerton, Mayor
TUKWILA COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE
Saturday, August 17 and Sunday, August 18 Sign up by July 20 to hold a sale; we’ll give you free publicity & more! Register online at TukwilaWA.gov/yardsale.html, call 206-433-7178, or email Recycle@TukwilaWA.gov
frogs. The students were shown the storm drainage plan of their school’s campus, learning how the campus drains to the Joe Henry Duffie Learning Center, a pond for the students where – along with
other aquatic life – certain frogs make their home. A variety of aquatic life relies on every person making sure that nothing but rain goes down the storm drain. The third graders signed pledge cards to do their part to keep pollution out of the City’s storm drainage system and thus keeping the water quality we depend on at a very high level‌ even for the FROGS!
Information about summer water bills and consumption In 1999 the City of Tukwila – along with the cities of Bellevue, Issaquah, Kirkland, Redmond and the Sammamish Plateau – and Skyway Water and Sewer Districts joined together to form a corporation called the Cascade Water Alliance (CWA). The mission of this alliance is “to provide water supply and meet current and future needs of our members in a cost-effective and environmentally responsible manner.� It provides a safe, clean and reliable water supply to almost 400,000 residents and more than 22,000 businesses. An important goal of the CWA is water conservation. As summer approaches with its traditional water usage increases, here are some tips for saving water:
➊ ➋ ➌ �
Run dish and clothes washers with full loads only.
➎
Use a broom to sweep sidewalks and driveways rather than a hose.
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Fix leaky faucets; small drips add up to many gallons of water lost.
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Maintain a cover on hot tubs and swimming pools when not in use to cut down on evaporation.
Wash your car at a commercial car wash.
♌ Cars being washed more often than at other times of the year ♌ Watering a summer garden or landscaping in addition to normal outdoor watering ♌ Recently filled a swimming pool ♌ Additional people in the home, including guests ♌ Irrigation system leaks ♌ Leaking toilets Leaking toilets can add up to the needless loss of many gallons of water which in turn increases your water bill. To check for a leak, do the following:
â—— Lift the lid on the toilet tank and place a few drops of food coloring in the tank.
Keep irrigation systems maintained and leak-free.
â—— Wait 15 minutes. DO NOT FLUSH TOILET.
Set your sprinklers to water only the area needed (overspray uses extra gallons of water).
â—— If color seeps into the toilet bowl, it is likely that
The CWA has a program that provides conservation items such as showerheads, shower timers and faucet aerators for free; you pay only the postage. This program is available to any homeowner whose water provider is a member of the Alliance. If you are interested, contact CWA by phone at 425-453-0930 or online at CascadeWater.org. Summer also sees a water bill increase as summer water rates go into effect from June through September – a pass-through of the raised prices from our provider. If your bill is higher than usual and shows increased consumption, other things to consider are:
TUKWILA
the toilet flapper is worn out and needs to be replaced.
â—— Remove flapper from toilet tank and place it in a plastic bag. Take bag to the hardware store where their staff can assist you with purchasing a new one, if help is needed. If your consumption still seems high beyond the above possibilities, a meter read is advisable. While NO WATER IS BEING USED, check whether or not the meter is turning; a moving meter can mean a possible leak. However, with a really slow leak the turning may not be noticeable initially, so read the meter, wait several minutes and then read it again. A different read indicates a leak. Senior or permanently disabled citizens meeting certain criteria qualify for a reduced water rate in Tukwila. As always, our City staff would be happy to answer any questions you may have about your water service or billing. Call us at 206-433-1835. 5)*/, $0/4&37"5*0/ t #& 8"5&38*4& ENJOY THE SUMMER!
The city of opportunity
T he community of choice
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On the cover, the two drinks are from Bahama Breeze’s Ledgendary Island Cocktail collection. Tracey Compton
coverstory
Summer drinks that cool the heat TRACEY COMPTON TCOMPTON@ TUKWILAREPORTER.COM
CUCUMBER MINT GIN FIZZ 1 1/2 oz Greenall’s Gin 1/2 oz lime juice 1/2 oz Sensational Simple Syrup 1/2 cup peeled and chopped cucumber 4 mint leaves 2 oz Fever Tree club soda Add 1/2 cup peeled and chopped cucumber and 4 mint leaves to a cocktail shaker. Muddle to extract all of the juices. Fill the shaker with ice and add Gin, lime juice, and Sensational Lime Syrup. Shake well. Strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with Fever Tree club soda and garnish with mint leaves and a cucumber slice.
LIME IN A COCONUT 1 oz Largo Bay Silver Rum 1/2 oz Drillaud Coconut Liqueur 1 oz Largo Bay Coconut Rum 2 oz Club Soda 2 dashes of lime juice Pour both rums and coconut liqueur into a glass with ice. Stir. Add soda water and two heavy dashes of lime juice. Re-stir and garnish with a lime.
Recipes from Total Wine & More in Southcenter
It’s summertime and when the weather’s fine, it’s often cause for celebration with some seasonal cocktails. Local retailers and restaurants have put out their summer cocktail supplies, recipes and drink menus. Here are some recipes, tips and insight for how to plan your own summer cocktail experience. “People are inventing cocktails every single day that they do, instead of being told what to invent now because they have so much to work with,” said Vicki Mathes. She is a team member at Total Wine & More at Southcenter and has been in the beer, wine and spirits business for 16 years. One can find all the ingredients for the cocktail recipes Total Wine & More provided, plus all of the beverages needed for the entertaining purposes, weekly classes and tastings. They even have a humidor filled with specialty cigars. “Cocktails go by seasons, just like clothing or anything else,” Mathes said. “Since it’s gin season again, gin sales are up. People are wanting to try gin if they’ve never had it before.” For the 20-something set, Manhattans are all the rage. “Manhattans are really big again,” she said. “They’ve come back like Capri pants when I was little. I would say Manhattans are
Ashley Lee, head bartender at Bahama Breeze, mixes up a Yaka Hula
Hickey Dula and a Zombie. Tracey Compton, Tukwila Reporter assumed to be one of the most popular drinks and rye whiskey has made a huge comeback.” Mathes attributes the drinks’
popularity to the media and shows like “Mad Men.” For something more tropical, or at least representative of a hot
zone, tequila season will never leave. “Once the weather gets warmer (it’s) tequila season, margaritas all that,” Mathes said. “People shop for tequila, like they shop for a fine bourbon because they’re making so many fine tequilas today with specific flavors.” Mezcal tequila, which is made outside of Jalisco, Mexico, has made a real comeback, she said. The Mexican government mandates only tequilas made in Jalisco to be called tequila. A lot of Mezcal Tequilas have an earthier flavor, Mathes said. If you’d rather be served an exotic libation than serve one yourself, there are plenty of restaurants in Tukwila with ample drink and happy-hour menus. Bahama Breeze is packed and lively during its early evening and late-night happy hours, lunch and dinner. The restaurant, located next to Westfield Southcenter Mall, recently introduced their new Legendary Island Cocktails. They are five drinks from five tropical locales. “Our most popular drink is the Frozen Bahamarita,” said Ashley Lee, head bartender. “We probably have 20 signature drinks that are unique to other restaurants.” Bahama Breeze has a deck, with seating, a stage, additional deck bar, live music stage and fire pit that transports visitors into a tropical setting.
noalcohol Here are some favorite summer drinks without alcohol. LEMONADE Combine in a saucepan 1. 1 cup sugar 2. 1 cup water 3. rind of two lemons, cut into pieces Stir over low heat until sugar is dissolved. Boil about 7 minutes. Cool. Add
1. 1 cup lemon juice (5 to 6 lemons) 2. 4 cups ice water Pour over ice in pitcher or tall glasses Makes 6-8 servings A bit of grenadine syrup makes pink lemonade Add some bruised mint at bottom of glasses for minted lemonade
RED FRUIT PUNCH Mix together ½ cup sugar 1 cup lemon juice 1 cup cherry juice 2 cups pineapple or pear juice Cover and chill until flavors are well blended. Just before serving, add 1 quart of carbonated water or ginger ale Makes 10 servings
SHERBERT PUNCH Fill a punch bowl with a lemon-lime soda and add scoops of lime sherbet. Delicious and refreshing. SHARE YOUR IDEAS Do you have your own favorite non-alcoholic summer drunk? Please email the recipe and include your name to editor@tukwilareporter.com and we’ll publish those in July.
www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » JUNE 2013 i 11
Foster administrator moved to Cascade View BY MICHELLE CONERLY
The Tukwila School District has placed former Foster High School Assistant Principal Daryl Wright on paid administrative leave and reassigned him to work at Cascade View Elementary School for the upcoming school year. Wright was placed on paid administrative leave earlier this week. A letter dated May 31 from interim Superintendent Mellody Matthes states Wright will transfer to the role of K-8 teacher at Cascade View Elementary effective for the 2013-2014 school year. The reason for the transfer, she wrote, is due to “the district’s staff needs and your expressed desires . . . to work with and make a difference to the district’s most diverse community and student body.” But Wright’s attorney offered another reason for the transfer “Mr. Wright views this as a demotion and retaliatory action by the specific people he has complained about in terms of their unwillingness to respect him as an African-American male and role model in the community,” said Joan Mell, the attorney representing Wright and the other eight plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the school district. Wright has requested a stay of this decision until the new superintendent, Nancy
Coogan, and new principal of Foster High School, Pat Larson, have begun their terms this summer so that they can make a final decision. “They (the current administration) are trying to get rid of the color in Tukwila,” Mell said. “They didn’t move him into another leadership role. They took him out of a leadership role.” The original lawsuit, filed Feb. 12 in King County Superior Court, outlines issues of racial discrimination experienced by nine faculty and staff members within the school district. “The Tukwila School District and its officials endorse a white agenda and systematically repress equality in education and teaching,” the lawsuit states. Wright’s placement on administrative leave, in addition to other infrastructural issues such as overcrowded spaces on campus and student achievement, are outlined in the amended complaint Mell submitted. Mike Patterson, the district’s attorney, wrote in an email June 7 that Wright’s assignment transfer was not connected to the lawsuit in any way. “The district strongly refutes any suggestion that transferring Mr. Wright to a teaching position for which he is qualified and endorsed is in any way related to his pending litigation or as a consequence of his allegations in the lawsuit,” wrote Pat-
terson. “The district has, and continues to, dispute any claims that it discriminates against any of its employees or students based on their race and can state with certainty that no reprisals of any kind have been taken or will be taken by any school administrator or the board against any district employee because of his or her participation in past or present grievance proce-
dures or litigation. “The district embraces and implements processes and programs expressly designed to ensure that its staff and all its students enjoy a positive environment in which to teach and learn, and it takes great care handling all personnel concerns to come to fair and just decisions that are in the best interests of all parties.”
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tukwilacalendar
tukwila’sstory
A family Fourth Tukwila’s Family 4th at the Fort is 4 p.m-10 p.m. at Fort Dent Park, 6800 Fort Dent Way. The park opens to the public at 9 a.m., with family activities beginning at 4 p.m., including inflatable bouncers and slides and an entertainment stage. There are designated areas for barbecues and food can be purchased from vendors. The fireworks show is at 10 p.m.
Tracing historic home
A garden party
Thomas Ray has been credited with building the 1882 farmhouse referred by local residents as the Ray –Carrossino House. Thomas or T.K. and Lucretia (Julian or Julien) Ray were married on Dec 5, 1880 in Duwamish, Washington Territory. Thomas was born in 1853 and the family lived in Iowa where he attended school while working the family farm and learning to become a teamster (driving teams of horses or Thomas Ray mules). Thomas and Lucretia’s first child, Clara, born on August 4, 1881, was followed by Dorothy (1884), Rhoda (1886), Eldra (1888), Viola (1894), Cecil (1894), and then Eugene (1903). All of the children except Clara are believed to have been born in the farm house. It was stated by Rodney Ray, who currently resides in the Auburn area, that his father, Eugene was born in an upstairs bedroom of the house. The parents of Thomas, Abner Ray and Mary Ann (Keith) Ray also came to Duwamish, Washington Territory and are buried in the area. Lucretia’s father, Jacob Julian, came to King County where he purchased 68 acres of farmland on the Duwamish River. He sold the land and purchased a larger farm where he continued to successfully farm for 20
July 13 is the day to see some of Tukwila’s finest gardens during the annual Garden Party and Tour. The event kicks off at the Tukwila Community Center, 12424 42nd Ave. S. The tours are 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 on July 13. Admission includes tours of private gardens, snacks and refreshments, and musical entertainment. Tickets are available at the Tukwila Community Center or by calling 206-768-2822. Tickets also can be purchased at the Brown Paper Tickets website, www.brownpapertickets.com/event/401283. A description of the farms is available online at www. backyardwildlifefestival.org/tour.html.
Summer movies The Movies on the Green at Foster Golf Links are July 19 and 26, beginning at 8 p.m. Outdoor seating opens at 8 p.m. and movies begin at dusk. The movie July 19 is “Skyfall,” rated PG-13 and the July 26 movie is “Here Comes the Boom,” rated PG. The golf course is at 13500 Interurban Ave. S.
AAA Congratulates dZ ^ ' Z D/Z ͳ / TUKWILA ELEMENTARY
2013 AAA School Safety Patrol ͳ , > > K & & D / E h d ͳ
BY LOUISE JONES-BROWN ACTING DIRECTOR, TUKWILA HISTORY MUSEUM
Tukwila teenager sentenced in murder BY STEVE HUNTER SHUNTER@TUKWILAREPORTER.COM
Every school day, thousands of school safety patrollers dedicate themselves to the safety of their classmates. From more than 22,000 patrollers across Washington, 10 were inducted into the 2013 AAA School Safety Patrol Hall of Fame. Trescege Ramirez-Diaz of Tukwila Elementary was chosen as a 2013 Hall of Fame inductee. AAA, the founder of the School Safety Patrol program, and the community of Tukwila will be forever grateful for her dedication, and that of her fellow patrollers, to the safety of her classmates. Congratulations Trescege, you are a true everyday hero!
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years. Jacob Julian was a Democrat and the Duwamish precinct is where he faithfully voted for twenty seven years. It is noted that he was very active and influential in local area public affairs serving as school director and road supervisor. He passed away in 1905. A property of 10 acres on the Duwamish River was purchased by Thomas in 1881 or 1882. He was very successful with his arm with growing fruit and vegetables in the furtile river bottom soil and also provided a ferry service for those living on the South side of the Duwamish. The family lived in the sturdy farmhouse until 1910 and it has been said that they lived very comfortably. Thomas had taken on farming land in the Auburn area where he moved the family. He lived there until his death in 1940 at the age of 87. Lucretia passed in 1945 at age 83. I just recently met 3 direct descendants of Thomas and Lucretia Ray, Carol Bruce (Clara), Judie Stewart (Eugene) and Gwyn Vukich (Eugene). They provided our organization with a host of family photos some of which are featured in this article along with many stories of the Ray family. We also made a trip to visit the farm house with the Ray descendants and it was very sad to see the once lively home boarded up and isolated by the local business development. This land was once a thriving farm and family residence which was the center of the Ray family. We happily discovered that there was a family connection between the Maple and Ray families by the marriage of Mary Van Asselt and William Julian in 1886 since Mary’s mother was Catherine “Jane” Maple.
A 19-year-old Tukwila man was sentenced to 18 years in prison for the 2012 stabbing death of Jasmyn Tully, 17, of SeaTac. Kolby Jordan Clark pleaded guilty in March to second-degree murder. He was 17 at the time of the murder but was charged as an adult under state law because second-degree murder falls under the serious violent offense of a Class A felony. Clark faced a sentence range of 12 to 20 years in prison, according to the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. King County Superior Court Judge Bill Bowman sentenced Clark on May 31 at the Norm Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent. Prosecutors recommended 16 years. Tully was found in an apartment in the 11600 block of 42nd Avenue South by Tuk-
wila Police officers at about 3 a.m. March 17, 2012, unconscious and suffering from stab wounds, according to Tukwila Police. She was transported to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle by Medic One but died a short time later. Officers questioned Clark, who lived at the apartment. Police arrested Clark and booked him into the King County Youth Services jail for investigation of seconddegree murder. Tully had a stab wound to her neck as well as defensive wounds to her right hand, according to charging papers. Both Tully and Clark had been spending the night at the apartment rented by other residents. Clark had left the apartment when police arrived, but officers found him about 15 minutes later several blocks from the apartment walking on the street without any shoes. He had a cut to his left wrist.
www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » JUNE 2013 i 13
District seeks applicant Applicants are being sought for a vacancy on the Valley View Sewer District Board of Commissioners. An applicant must be a registered voter and live within the sewer district. However, applicants do not need any technical knowledge about sewers or how they work. The board meets twice a month to consider policies, projects and budgets of the sewer district. The board will appoint an individual to
serve in Position 1 until the 2015 election, when the position will be on the ballot for a two-year term. Applications are due on June 21 and are available online at www.valvue.com or at the district office, 3460 S. 148th St., Suite 100, Tukwila. Valley View Sewer District serves parts of the cities of SeaTac, Burien, Tukwila, as well as unincorporated King County.
Bus meeting is set
Tukwila Turtles win medals at state meet Fourteen athletes from the city’s Tukwila Turtles Special Olympics Swim Team won 30 medals at the at the Special Olympics Washington State Games June 1 at the King County Aquatic Center. They won 10 gold, nine silver and 11 bronze medals at the games. The team’s boys and girls unified 200 freestyle relays capped off the meet with the boys, Paul Kang, Kenneth Nishino, Phillip Thelin and Michael Dizon, winning gold medals, and the girls, Jillian Quigley, Lynsey Yunker, Julie Roles and Kenna Ramey, winning silver medals. This year is the eighth season for the Special Olympics Washington Tukwila Turtles swim team. Eighteen swimmers were registered for practices with four unified swimmers (two boys and two girls non-special Olympians) joining the team for the regional and
state competitions in relays. Practices are on Fridays, 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. midFebruary until the end of May. The regional tournament is mid-April and state tournament is the first weekend in June. The coaches are Tukwila Pool Aquatic Coordinator Malcolm Neely and Aquatic Specialist Amy Kindell, with assistance from Wendy Neely with
Blue Wave Aquatics. The Metropolitan Park District, City of Tukwila and Special Olympics Washington sponsor the team. Signups for next year’s team will be early in 2014, but there are other options available for Special Olympic athletes to swim throughout the year at the Tukwila Pool. Call 206267-2350 for more information.
The best in community sports in print & online www.tukwilareporter.com
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Concerned about preserving and improving our roads, bridges, highways, and Metro bus service? Here’s a chance to learn about potential funding solutions and share your views. King County has scheduled a transportation open house for 5:30 p.m. June 19 in Bellevue City Hall to discuss transit. As the state Legislature seeks common ground on transportation funding, elected officials from cities and King County will hold an open house and town hall meeting to highlight what’s at stake for our roads, bridges, highways, and transit service. Speakers will include mayors and other local and state elected officials.
Come ask questions and share your thoughts about how you might be affected by cuts in transit service or by lack of funding to improve and maintain highways and roads. County officials will be recording your views to show elected officials what you want for your transportation future. The June 19 event begins at with an open house and comment period at 5:30 p.m. and will be followed by a moderated panel discussion and questions from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Bellevue City Hall is located at 450 110th Avenue Northeast, Bellevue.
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ABOVE: Members of the Tukwila Turtles Special Olympics swim team. AT LEFT: Paul Kang, Kenneth Nishino, Phillip Thelin and Michael Dizon, won gold medals. City of Tukwila
14 h JUNE 2013
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school connection Tukwila School District #406
JUNE 2013
Tukwila Fifth Grader Inducted to 2013 AAA School Safety Patrol Hall of Fame Patrollers are Bellevue, WA evaluated and (June 4, 2013) – judged on their Trescege Ramirezcommitment to Diaz, a fifth grader at traffic safety, citiTukwila Elementary, zenship, leaderwas inducted into the ship skills, and 2013 AAA School Safecontributions to ty Patrol Hall of Fame school safety on Friday, May 24, in patrol programs. recognition of her dedNominations reication to safety, comquire input from munity stewardship both the patroland leadership. ler and their adRamirez-Diaz was visor, including one of 10 outstanding responses to patrollers from across a series of esWashington recognized say questions. at the evening awards az Ramirez-Diaz ceremony held before Trescege Ramirez-Di as an was chosen for the Seattle Mariners received recognition fety her outstandgame at Safeco Field. outstanding school sa ing leadership As a long standing trar lle patro as described below: dition, AAA Washington · Ramirez-Diaz is a true role model and a panel of judges from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administra- at Tukwila Elementary. As a more extion, the Office of the Superintendent perienced patroller, she has taken it of Public Instruction and the Washing- upon herself to be a mentor and reton Traffic Safety Commission select source for new patrollers. She helps top patrollers from schools across with training, takes shifts when needWashington each year, and honor their ed and provides guidance to help new accomplishments through induction patrollers be successful. She also helps in the AAA School Safety Patrol Hall of enforce the rules and has implemented new ways for patrollers to communiFame.
cate in order to protect the safety of fellow schoolmates. She is viewed as a role model for younger students and her positive and helpful attitude is contagious to those around her. As her advisor, Irma Guerrero-Kusmirek, wrote in the nomination, “I believe that Trescege has many qualities that help her stand apart from the other patrols, one is that she is very self motivated.” Mark Owen, school safety patrol advisor at Highland Terrace Elementary School in Shoreline, was also recognized as the second annual AAA School Safety Patrol Advisor of the Year. More than 700 people, including fellow patrollers, family, friends and community leaders, attended the Mariners game
Sydney Grayson - Stevens Elementary - Seattle Victor Grishko - Cooper Elementary - Spokane Alyssa Larson - Michael Anderson Elementary Fairchild Air Force Base James Lasswell - Westview Elementary - Spokane Jaylin Miller - Star Lake Elementary - Kent Trescege Ramirez Diaz Tukwila Elementary - Tukwila Payton Zitterkopf - Image Elementary - Vancouver
to honor the 10 inductees and Owen.
THE 2013 AAA SCHOOL SAFETY PATROL HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES: Tyler Ashley - Tiffany Park Elementary - Renton Andrew Counter - Highland Terrace Elementary - Shoreline Blakely Doerge - Little Mountain Elementary - Mount Vernon
Emina Dacic chosen for AWC Center for Quality Communities Scholarship The AWC Center for Quality Communities Scholarship Fund supports active and involved senior high school students in local communities who plan to continue their education. The AWC Center for Quality Communities goal is to develop a broad understanding of the important role of cities and towns across the state. Emina Dacic was nominated by the City of Tukwila and was one of 6 students chosen from 49 applicants from across the state. Emina had the opportunity to visit with Mayor Jim Haggerton so he could personally congratulate her on this honor. Emina will be travelling to the AWC’s Annual Conference in Kennewick where she will be recognized. Emina will be attending the University of Washington where she has been accepted into the University Honors Program.
AAA SCHOOL SAFETY PATROL ADVISOR OF THE YEAR: Mark Owen - Highland Terrace Elementary School - Shoreline
school connection is presented by the Tukwila School District
Tukwila School District #406 www.tukwila.wednet.edu 206.901.8000 4640 South 144th Street Tukwila, Washington 98168
Board of Directors:
Mayor Jim Haggerton and Emina Dacic
Mark Wahlstrom, President, 206.243.9855 Steve Mullet, Vice-President, 206.244.7553 Mary Fertakis, 206.767.6053 Dave Larson, 206.244.2313 Alicia Waterton, 206.248.4302 Interim Superintendent: Dr. Mellody Matthes, 206.901.8006
www.TUKWILAREPORTER.com » JUNE 2013 i 15
Tukwila School District #406
JUNE 2013
Foster High School Class of 2014 earns Principal Selected $ 2.1 million in scholarships The Tukwila School District is proud to announce the new Principal at Foster High School is Patricia Larson. Currently Mrs. Larson is the Principal at the Career Academy at Truman High School in Federal Way. She will be joining Foster High School and the Tukwila School District this summer. Patricia Larson is returning to Foster where she taught for four years. After leaving Foster she worked for the Tacoma School District as an Assistant Principal and then in the Highline School District and Federal Way School District as a Principal. She has obtained degrees and certifications from Highline Community College, Central Washington University and Seattle Pacific University. Patricia holds a Master’s Degree in Education Administration and over 20 years of experience in as a teacher, assistant principal and principal. Patricia is also a community member and alumni of Foster High School. Having lived in this community her entire life Patricia is looking forward to giving back to her Alma Matter and community.
Tukwila School District and WASA Honor Pastor Jan Bolerjack with Community Award On May 17 at the Puget Sound ESD, the Washington Association of School Administrators honored Tukwila School District Nominee Jan Bolerjack, pastor at Riverton United Methodist Church for her service to the Tukwila community. Fourteen districts nominated community members and organizations to receive the award. All were recognized for their contributions to their communities and service to their school districts. Pastor Jan was chosen by the WASA selection committee to receive the overall individual award. Tukwila School District is grateful to Pastor Jan for all she does for our community and our district.
Foster High School’s Class of 2013— 175 students, has earned $2.1 million in scholarships to pursue education and training beyond high school. Those scholarships include two $180,000 Act Six Leadership and Scholarship grant given to Miguel Maestas and Aven Zemo to attend Gonzaga University, and a full-ride football scholarship to Idaho State University to Micah Breland, valued at $96,000. Thirty-three Foster graduates will share just over $1 million dollars in College Bound scholarships. The College Bound Scholarship program, which students sign up for n seventh and eighth grades, provides annual college tuition up to the amount for the most expensive fouryear public university in the state. There is also a small book allowance to eligible students and their families. Students in the program must graduate with a GPA of 2.0 or higher, demonstrate good citizenship and stay crime-free; apply for financial aid by filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and apply to an eligible program and college. This is the second graduating class to receive money for this program. The seniors were honored at the Senior Awards Night at Foster High School on June 12, 2013. Here are the scholarship wins:
Riley McCarthy Memorial: Emina Dacic, $2,000 Sea Mar: Michel Baños, $1,000 Sea Mar: Daniel Caracoza, $1,000 Sea Mar: Eric, Cortes, $1,000 Sea Mar: Alejandro De la torre, $1,000 Sea Mar: Alan Flores Torres, $1,000 Sea Mar: Carlos Garcia, $1,000 Sea Mar: Eduardo Rojas, $1,000 Seattle Swedish Communities: Emina Dacic, $3,500 Sisters of Samoa: Ngoc-Hoa Thi Hong, $700 Southcenter Rotary, John Grusz Memorial Scholarship: Anvar Alandinov Southcenter Rotary: Sarah Al Obaidi, $1,000 Southcenter Rotary: Michel Baños, $1,000 Southcenter Rotary: Emina Dacic, $1,000 Southcenter Rotary: Alan Flores Torres, $1,000 Southcenter Rotary: Seham Hamid, $1,000 Southcenter Rotary: Phoung Malie Pheng
Act Six: Miguel Maestas, $180,000
Southcenter Rotary: Charanpreet Samra, $1,000
Act Six: Aven Zemo, $180,000
Southcenter Rotary: Veronica Sun
AWC Center for Quality Communities: Tukwila Police Officer’s Guild: Emina Dacic, $1,000 Sarah Al Obaidi, $1,000 Catherine Snelson: Tukwila Police Officer’s Guild: Francely Diaz, $500 Emina Dacic, $1,000 Costco Diversity Scholarship: Tukwila School District Academic: Eduardo Rojas, $40,000 Seham Hamid, $1,000 Idaho State University: Tukwila School District Academic: Micha Breland, $96,000 Charanpreet Samra, $1,000 Highline Community College Washington State Employees Credit Breakthrough: $1,000 Union: Veronica Sun, $2,000 Leaadership 1000: Washington State Opportunity: Michel Baños, $20,000 Sarah Al Obaidi, $12,000 Mullet Brothers: Washington State Opportunity: Veronica Sun, $5,000 Bhagi Biswa, $12,000 Parker Family: Washington State Opportunity: Charanpreet Samra, $1,500 Naveed Shaiwayana, $12,000
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