Free each Volume 26 month Issue 11 A community-based newspaper serving the Puget Sound area since 1981

November 2007 Articles translated into six languages

TheTheThe newspaper VoiceVoice of Neighborhood House 2007 general election set for Nov. 6

By Tyler Roush The Voice Editor

Voters around and King County will take to the polls Nov. 6. Among the major issues on this month’s ballot are state measures on insurance claims and school district tax levies and a King County roads and transit package. Voters will also vote on five seats on the , four positions on the King County Council, two Port of Seattle commissioners, the county assessor and the county prosecuting attorney. At the state level, Measure 67 concerns fair conduct related to insurance claims for coverage or benefits. Approval of the bill would make it illegal for insurers to unrea- sonably deny certain insurance claims. Resolution 4204 would change the way

Photo by Tyler Roush school district tax levies are approved (From left) Seattle Mayor , Boys & Girls Club of King County President Daniel Johnson, Branch Executive through an amendment to the state consti- Director Bill Burton and King County Executive Ron Sims pose for a photo during the Oct. 22 groundbreaking of the tution. School district tax levies currently Rainier Vista Boys & Girls Club Rainier Valley Teen Center. require a 60 percent “supermajority” to be passed. The amendment would make a simple majority vote adequate for a school Boys & Girls Club breaks ground for Rainier Valley Teen Center district tax levy to pass. The biggest countywide measure is SHA Staff art gymnasium and a multi-use sports field suited for Little Proposition No. 1, the roads and transit League baseball and softball, football and soccer. package. The Boys & Girls Club of King County hosted a ground- The use of the field will be coordinated with the help of Sound Transit’s regional roads and breaking event Monday, Oct. 22 on the site of their new facil- Seattle Parks and Recreation. transit plan proposes an expanded light ity at MLK Jr. Way South and South Tamarack. Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels and King County Executive rail system and road improvements to the The event marked the start of construction of the Rain- Ron Sims attended the Oct. 22 groundbreaking for the $14.3 state Route 520 bridge, Interstate 405, ier Vista Boys & Girls Club Rainier Valley Teen Center, a million project, which will serve youth in the Rainier Val- state Route 167 and the SR-167/I-405 in- 40,000-square-foot facility that will include a state-of-the- Please see “Teen Center” on Page 2 terchange, Mercer and Spokane streets in Seattle, and state Route 509. The plan would be funded by a sales tax increase of six-tenths of one percent and a Federal housing budget still up in the air motor vehicle excise tax increase of eight- By Scott Freutel made up of representatives and senators. If it passes, it will be sent to President tenths of one percent. Seattle Housing Authority One of the senators will be Patty Murray Bush for his signature. The president, In Seattle’s council races, incumbent (D-WA). however, has given formal notice to Con- Jean Godden and challenger Joe Szwaja An article in The Voice last month But according to Alex Glass, Sen. Mur- gress that he will veto the bill if it calls are contending for Position No. 1. reported that in September the U.S. Sen- ray’s press secretary, who was reached for substantial increases in appropriations Newcomers Venus Velázquez and ate had passed a $104.6 billion housing late last month, the conference committee for the Department of Housing and Urban Bruce Harrell are vying for Position No. appropriations bill, and that a similar bill hasn’t met yet, and won’t “for at least a Development (HUD) over those outlined 3, which is currently held by councilman had been passed in the House of Repre- couple of weeks.” in his budget. Peter Steinbrueck, who opted not to run sentatives. Assuming the committee is able to Even as a battle over HUD’s budget for re-election. The article ended by noting that dif- hammer out terms satisfactory to both the looms, the House agreed last month to Incumbent David Della and challenger ferences between the two bills are to be House and the Senate, an appropriations establish a National Housing Trust Fund, are in the race to fill Position negotiated by a conference committee bill will be voted upon in both houses. Please see “Budget” on Page 2 Please see “Elections” on Page 4

In this issue Quotable Neighborhood House Nonprofit org. Jesse Epstein Building U.S. postage PAID Health Notes Page 2 “We were too scared to go so both 905 Spruce Street Seattle, WA Hunger in older adults of us put all our stuff (jackets and Seattle, WA 98104 Permit #8887 One to grow on Page 3 everything) on the escalator, but we Native berries: A tasty couldn’t go. It all moved down slowly.” treat — Neighborhood House employee Niymo Our Voices Page 3 Abdisimad describes the day nearly 18 First day in America years ago when she and her family ar- Translations Page 8 rived in the United States. Protect your home from mold and mildew See story on Page 3 2 – local and national news november 2007 Health Notes A column devoted to your well-being

Malnutrition in older adults can lead to serious health problems

By Pam McGaffin 1. Be alert to symptoms and causes, Special to The Voice including easy bruising, dental pain, loss of weight and muscle tone, weakness, Your mother is still active and lives on confusion, alcohol consumption and de- her own, but she’s losing weight and some- pression. times seems confused. She finds it hard 2. Ask a doctor about screening tests for to cook for just one. So she pours herself nutrition problems. Low levels of certain some tea, nibbles on some toast and calls proteins can indicate chronic malnutri- it a meal. tion. Photo by Tyler Roush Although she appears healthy now, your 3. Help older adults add protein to What is now a dirt field in the Rainier Valley will soon be home to a new mother may be malnourished, which puts their diets. Spreading peanut butter on Boys & Girls Club Teen Center. her at risk for serious health problems and toast, melting cheese on vegetables and loss of independence down the road. sprinkling nuts or wheat germ on cereal SHA will be constructing new road- Undernutrition or malnutrition — de- are easy and inexpensive ways to enrich a Teen Center ways, sidewalks and underground infra- Continued from front page fined as low or dangerously low levels of meager meal. structure, including a new Oregon Street protein and other nutrients — is particu- 4. Encourage healthy between-meal ley area. Boulevard from MLK Jr. Way South to larly common among elderly patients and snacks, such as yogurt, a milkshake or an “I can’t think of a project that better 33rd Avenue South. residents in long-term care facilities. apple with cheese slices or peanut butter. captures the mission of the Boys & Girls The road will replace the old Tamarack But it’s also a condition affecting a 5. Eat out with your older friend or rela- Club,” said Daniel Johnson, president and and Oregon Street connection. growing number of independent adults, tive or go with that person to a senior center CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of King Included with this project are new particularly minority and low-income se- or another meeting place that provides County, in a press release. “This amazing street improvements along 33rd Ave niors and women living alone, according low-cost meals along with opportunities building will allow the Rainier Vista Boys South, South Genesee Street and 31st the Healthy Aging Partnership (HAP), a for talk and friendship. & Girls Club to reach out to more children Avenue South, as well as a new Renton coalition of 40 Puget Sound-area organiza- 6. Provide companionship on walks. and teens in the community while deep- Avenue South. tions dedicated to the health and well-being Daily exercise boosts appetite, strength ening the impact of that outreach.” Two new areas of parks and open of older adults. and mood, particularly when it’s done About $9.5 million had been raised for spaces will be developed as well. One will The causes are many and varied and with a friend. the project as of the groundbreaking, ac- provide a connection from Alaska Street include poverty, loneliness, depression, al- 7. Consider dietary supplements to fill in cording to a press release provided by the around the new sports field connecting coholism, poor digestion, dental problems missing nutrients, particularly vitamins D, Boys & Girls Club of King County. with the new Oregon Street Boulevard. and appetite-suppressing medications. B-6 and B-12 and folate, niacin, zinc and The Seattle Housing Authority contrib- The stately red oak on the west side of Knowing who’s at risk can help friends calcium. Be aware, however, that supple- uted $4.4 million to the project through Tamarack will be incorporated into the and relatives spot the problem before it ments are not intended as food substitutes. its donation of the 2.7-acre parcel of land median of this new boulevard. becomes obvious and serious, according 8. Get outside help if needed. Arrange upon which the teen center will be built. This work is scheduled to begin mid to HAP, noting that a chronically poor diet visits from a home health aide or dietitian The original Rainier Vista Boys & to late December 2007 with an expected speeds decline. or call Meals-on-Wheels. Food banks, Girls Club facility was built in 1976 and completion date of June 2008. Those weakened by malnutrition find churches, and social-service organizations torn down in September of this year. SHA is proceeding with design of a it more difficult to shop for groceries also are available to help seniors who are Bill Burton, executive director of the mixed-use building just south of the new and cook healthy meals. Their weakened having difficulty shopping, cooking and/or Rainier Vista Boys & Girls Club, said Boys & Girls Club facility. immune systems also make them more stretching their food budgets. the new building was an important step This multi story building will include vulnerable to sickness and disease. For more information on preventing for the club. retail spaces on the first floor and housing HAP suggests talking to older adults malnutrition and other issues related to “I made a promise to the kids that I on the upper floors. about what they’re eating and spending life as an older adult, call HAP’s free and would help build them a new building,” Other features, such as a pedestrian time with them during meal times. Sched- confidential help line at 1-888-4ELDERS said Burton in a press release. “It’s been a friendly plaza and playground, are envi- ule visits to residents of long-term care fa- (1-888-435-3377) or e-mail hap@seniorser- dream of mine for a long time now and I’m sioned in the plan. cilities during the lunch or dinner hours. vices.org. To learn more about HAP and so happy because we’re almost there.” The Partnership also recommends that its partner agencies, visit the Web site at Construction is just underway and is Voice editor Tyler Roush contributed friends, relatives and caregivers: www.4elders.org. expected to be completed in Aug. 2008. to this story.

leader, has not yet stated whether he will providing funding increases for core HUD In most cases, these reductions would Budget support the bill or work to kill it. programs. come on top of cuts made in these pro- Continued from front page The deadlock in appropriations for The president proposed these cuts for grams in fiscal years 2005 and 2006. HUD and the uncertain prospects of the the 2008 fiscal year despite evidence that Under the president’s 2008 budget, total which would provide money for the con- National Housing Trust Fund come at a growing numbers of low-income families funding for HUD programs would fall struction, rehabilitation and preservation time when nearly half of the country’s have serious housing affordability prob- to an inflation-adjusted level that is $4.6 of some 1.5 million housing units over the lowest-income families are at risk of lems. billion — or 11 percent — below the 2004 next decade. homelessness, and when public housing Some 15 million low-income house- funding level. Seventy-five percent of the funds would authorities, including SHA, are struggling holds have rent and utility costs that are The federal fiscal year began Oct. 1; be targeted at very low-income families. to stretch every dollar. unaffordable under federal standards (that SHA’s fiscal year begins Jan. 1. The bill would require no new taxes. It The president’s budget, however, would is, costs that exceed 30 percent of their But budgeting and planning for SHA’s would operate on contributions from cut HUD funding for 2008 by $2 billion incomes). next fiscal year are well underway. government-backed mortgage entities below the 2007 level, adjusted for inflation, Moreover, since 2000, census data indi- “SHA relies on HUD funding for about Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and on and thereby compound the effects of large cates that the number of low-income renter 75 percent of our operating expenses,” funds generated by the Federal Housing cuts made in 2005 and 2006. families with the most severe housing cost Shelly Yapp, SHA’s chief financial of- Administration. Congress took steps to reverse the burdens — families that pay more than ficer, said. The bill goes next to the Senate. Sen. weakening of low-income housing pro- half of their income for housing — has in- When the levels of those funds are Mitch McConnell (R-KY), the minority grams in the 2007 appropriations law by creased by one-third, to nearly 9 million. delayed at the federal level, SHA has to The president’s budget for fiscal year estimate its revenue for the coming year. 2008 proposes to cut $2 billion from Guessing too high or low could have nega- The Voice HUD. tive consequences, Yapp said. After adjusting for inflation, that’s “If we overestimate HUD funding, we Editor Reporters a reduction of 5 percent from the 2007 are in the position of having to cut back Tyler Roush Robert Canamar funding level. midyear to meet the funding level finally 206-461-8430, ext. 227 Cecilia Matta [email protected] Unique Saunders The deepest cuts would be made in decided,” Yapp said. “If we underestimate housing for the elderly and disabled (a 29 HUD funding, we’ve lost the opportu- The Voice, the newspaper of Neighborhood House, is published monthly with the support of Seattle percent cut), Community Development nity to increase or improve our housing Housing Authority resident participation funds and the King County Housing Authority. Neighbor- Block Grants (22 percent), public housing services. hood House helps diverse communities of people with limited resources attain their goals for self-suf- (8 percent), and Section 8 Project-Based “All in all,” she continued, “we can’t ficiency, financial independence and community building. The Voice contributes to that mission by providing low-income people, immigrants, refugees and other concerned parties with timely, relevant rental assistance (5 percent), although other plan as effectively for our programs and news. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the staff, Neighborhood House, SHA or programs would receive reduced funding services when HUD’s funding is up in KCHA. We welcome articles and tips from the community and reserve the right to edit all submissions. as well. the air.”

The voice november 2007 Local and national news – 3 Our Voices... One to grow on Garden tips for community gardeners Editor’s note: “Our Voices” is a multi-part series written by Neighborhood House staff members in which they describe their experiences in becoming acclimated to a new culture in the United States. Native berries from the garden make a

Why we’re sharing our stories The answer was, “It is very different delicious treat in summer and fall than home!” We are sharing our personal stories When we came here, it was like we By Anza Muenchow bushes is how lovely they look in the fall. because people who are new to the United were newborn babies, because we had Special to The Voice The leaves turn vibrant red and offer a States often come here thinking they need no English, we didn’t know where to go visual treat after harvesting all that deli- to do things in a particular way. to the store — nobody helped us. It was a Walking through the forests even in cious fruit. Back at home we were told to start very difficult life when we got here. October and November, I notice the abun- The main disease problem is “mummy new in the United States and to get rid Now we want to help the newcomers dance of native berries we have in the Puget berry,” a fungus that turns berries hard, of our old ways. Some of us threw away to America. Our stories will help explain Sound region. white and inedible. our clothes so that we could replace them our experiences, how we felt, and some Most of these berries are a great food Remove these diseased berries or the with “American” clothes. of the lessons we learned when we first crop for humans as well as for native infection will get worse the following year. We didn’t know that in America we arrived in the United States. animals. Fallen berries will release spores as the could do anything we want – that there is It is our hope that our stories will help Of course, the invasive Himalayan weather warms. freedom here. We thought we had to fol- others who have arrived in the United blackberry, with its huge thorny canes, Raspberries are much less expensive, low American rules and have American States more recently. Perhaps these sto- provides delicious fruits used in jams, pies, since they send out runners that can be style once we got here. ries can help build community between and cobblers in August and September. almost invasive in a cultivated garden. We asked people, “How is America?” all of our cultures as we learn together. But now, in the fall, we can still snack I enjoy the fall raspberry, like the Heri- on the small evergreen huckleberries that tage variety, because by pruning it prop- we find in the woodland landscape. erly, it will give a small harvest in July and This shrub with its small, shiny green then a larger harvest in September. Fresh A wild ride on an escalator leaves will have white and pink blossoms berries for five weeks of the growing sea- in June and is an attractive ornamental son, how great is that? plant. These evergreen branches look great Raspberries and thornless blackberries Niymo Abdisamad in floral arrangements. need a strong trellis. Special to The Voice In the fall, when the berries are dark Plant a long row in a sunny location, blue or black, they are ripe. A handful of again working in a good mulch of peat or When we first came, we came to New these berries cooked into muffins or pan- rotten sawdust. Prepare the soil to a greater York. We came to the escalator — that’s cakes will make a delicious and healthy depth than is needed for blueberries. the first time I had seen an escalator! We breakfast. Never add lime to the soil when planting were looking for the stairs and couldn’t These berries contain antioxidant phyto- any berries. They all want very acidic soil find the stairs. nutrients that help prevent cancer, heart — 4.5-5.5 pH. I had my 2-month-old baby and my disease and Alzheimer’s. Bird damage won’t be a problem for husband with me but my husband went For easier access to delicious berries blackberries or raspberries, and with good down the escalator in the middle of a group and all the health benefits they provide, weeding, careful thinning, watering and a of people thinking I was behind him. He consider planting some of these domes- new layer of mulch every year, you will called me and called me in our language tic varieties in your garden landscapes: rarely have disease problems either. but another man grabbed my arm because blueberries, raspberries and thornless Most important to remember is a timely he was scared, too — I didn’t know him blackberries. harvest. The fruit doesn’t last long on the but his fear made me more scared! Blueberry bushes are expensive to buy canes. We were too scared to go so both of us and take several years to bear fruits, but Pick and eat regularly. That is the easy put all our stuff (jackets and everything) they are worth it. part. on the escalator, but we couldn’t go. It all Purchase quality, disease-free stock Raspberry jam is a northwest favorite. moved down slowly. Then other people we Name: Niymo Abdisamad from a reputable source. Plant in an area New recipes for freezer jam make quick, were traveling with and some who worked Home Country: Ethiopia/ Somalia with partial to full sun and work plenty small batches of jam that can be enjoyed in the airport helped us and put us in an Date of arrival in United States: Dec. of peat moss, rotten sawdust or leaf mold months later and still offer nutritious elevator. 29, 1989 into the soil. snacking. My husband saved my stuff and set the Neighborhood House Job: Head Berry bushes should never dry out, so A bit of trivia: There is a small difference other man’s stuff aside. By the time we got Start water regularly in the summer. between a blackberry and a raspberry. down to the lower floor we had missed the Number of years with Neighborhood But don’t let them sit in soggy soil during When you pick the raspberry, there plane that was to take us to California. House: 10 years the winter or they may develop root rot. is a hole where the berry was attached. The next day we got on the plane to Cal- The different blueberry varieties will Blackberries don’t leave that hole when ifornia, but we couldn’t get seats together. ripen any time from July to September, you pick them. She tried to show me how to close his My husband sat in the back and I sat in the so select several and extend your harvest I invite you to continue visiting your diaper but I held him close and wouldn’t middle close to the kitchen with my baby. season. Harvesting once or twice a week garden regularly, removing weeds and let go. Then I had to go to the bathroom! will supply you with nutritious snacks, slug habitat. Later the woman brought a doll over For one hour I kept seeing people get- and they stay fresh in the refrigerator for Then go indoors, snuggle up with a to my seat to show me how to put the ting up, walking away and returning so I several days. good gardening book and dream about next diaper on my baby. She even gave me kept wondering whether they were going Try planting “Patriot” for an early crop, growing season. some extra diapers for him. I thanked to the bathroom. “Blue Crop” for a midseason harvest and her in my language. Then I got up, I put my baby on the seat “Darrow” for a late harvest. Anza Muenchow is a farmer and a vol- Later, when she brought the food there and I tapped a woman sitting in the next Protect them from marauding birds by unteer with P-Patch. You can reach her by was another seat open and she sat there seat, pointed to her, to my eyes, and to my covering them with a net as they ripen. e-mail at [email protected], or online and held my baby until I was finished baby to try to ask that she watch him while One of the best features of blueberry at www.mahafarm.com. I’m in the bathroom. She didn’t respond eating. but I had to go. She became my friend — I’m not I left, I found the bathroom, used it, going to forget her even though I don’t and returned — my baby was gone! The know her name. Please recycle me woman was sitting there — she hadn’t When I was in Somalia I used to moved. hear that American people steal and sell I pointed to the woman again to ask children. When we saw Americans in Community notes her where the baby was — she didn’t re- Somalia we used to say, “They’re here Re-parenting support group The group may be contacted via e- spond. I was yelling in Somali: “Where’s to steal or buy people!” Southwest Youth and Family Ser- mail at [email protected]. my baby?!” My experience with the woman who vices, a re-parenting support group for I finally found a man who did respond helped me with my baby was the first grandparents and others who are assum- Winter warmth day by taking me by the hand and bringing me experience I had that showed me how ing the role of parent to a family member, The Cascade People’s Center is hold- to the kitchen where my baby had been kind and helpful some people in the holds support meetings on the second ing a winter warmth day from 11 a.m.–2 taken by the people who worked there. United States are. and fourth Tuesdays of each month in p.m. Dec. 8. They were changing his diapers. I I’ve been here a long time and I now West Seattle. The group seeks donations of clean grabbed him fast and held him — I didn’t have a lot of American friends as well The group meets at 4555 Delridge and usable blankets, coats, shoes, boots, let the woman finish closing his diaper. as friends from other places. Way S.W. from 1–3 p.m. hats, gloves, sweaters and sweatshirts. The group also offers free childcare. Donations will be accepted until 6 For more information or to get driving p.m. Dec. 6. directions, contact Nani at 206-937-7680 For more information, contact Debbie or Debbie at 206-926-9475. at 206-926-9475.

The voice 4 – local and national news november 2007 ADA issues and taxicabs

This is the first installment in a series In the meeting, Mr. Leisy explained on ADA issues pertaining to taxi cabs in that there are four reasons for refusing the city of Seattle. a fare: 1. If the driver has already been dis- By Robert Canamar patched on another call Special to The Voice 2. If the passenger is acting in a disor- derly or threatening manner or behaving It’s a rainy night. You need a ride. One in a manner that would cause a reasonable by one, taxicabs pass you — and your person to believe that the driver’s health service animal — by. and safety, or the health and safety of oth- There have been complaints by resi- ers, may be endangered dents dependent on service animals about 3. If the passenger cannot show ability cab drivers refusing to transport them to pay the fare when they had a service dog with them. 4. The passenger refuses to state a Complaints went in to the Seattle Of- specific destination upon entering the fice of Discrimination when cabbies left taxicab them behind, refusing the fare because of Any reason other than these is a reason- a service dog’s presence. able complaint. Photos by Robert Canamar I spoke with Doug Morrison, president Some things that cabbies cannot do Tim Guice (above), a City of Seattle of the Resident Action Council (RAC) include talking on a cell phone while employee, conducts a safety inspection of first. He said that he got involved because the passenger is in the cab, not giving a a taxicab. Placards listing the passenger someone from SHA told him about it. receipt (script users are exempt from this), complaint hotline (left) are required in He said that he contacted Greg Bell not taking the most direct route to the all taxicabs. If the raised lettering on the from the Department of Discrimination, passengers destination (if the customer sign is chipped or damaged, a cab driver and asked him to come to a RAC meeting wants to go a certain route, Mr. Leisy has two weeks to replace the sign, or the to discuss the issue. says that the driver is obliged to follow cab could be put out of service. Also invited to the meeting were Craig the customer’s course), and, of course, Leisy from the Seattle Department of refusing to accommodate a service animal tol Hill, said, “I have had problems with service dogs, you can call the dispatch Executive Administration, consumer af- with the passenger. just about everything in a cab before I had number and complain to the operator. Or fairs unit, and Brett Houghton, commu- A for-hire driver must also be neat and to get my scooter, but the attitude about my you can call the Department of Discrimi- nity builder to RAC with Seattle Housing clean and provide customers with profes- service dog, Gretchen, was the worst.” nation and lodge a formal complaint. That Authority. sional and courteous service at all times. If you have a problem with a cab driver, number is 206-733-9378. At the meeting it was discussed how to Rudeness is not allowed. and you cannot resolve it, there are a In the next issue, we will explore how make a complaint, as well as what cabbies Not all users have this experience. couple of things that you can do. the taxicab industry is attempting to solve can and cannot do. Aaron McLaughlan, who lives on Capi- If it involves an ADA issue, such as these problems.

Elections A vaccination can fend off the flu this season Continued from front page

Public Health, Seattle and King Influenza is a highly contagious illness the fee for a flu shot at Public Health, Se- County that causes an average of 36,000 deaths attle and King County clinics is $25. For No. 7. and over 200,000 hospitalizations every intranasal flu vaccine, the fee is $33, and for Incumbent Sally Clark faces chal- Flu shots are an excellent way to improve year in the United States. Pneumonia is the pneumococcal pneumonia vaccine, $39, lenger Judy Fenton in the race for Posi- the chances that you and those around you the most common complication in high- with a sliding scale based on income. tion No. 9. will stay healthy during the flu season. risk groups. Costs vary for flu and pneumococcal For Position No. 5, incumbent Tom Starting this month and through the fall Influenza, unlike the common cold, vaccines through other providers. Rasmussen is running unopposed. and winter months, health care providers has a swift onset of severe symptoms be- The federal- and state-funded Vaccines On the County Council, Republican and Public Health centers throughout the ginning with two to seven days of fever, for Children program subsidizes the cost John Potter challenges incumbent Dow county will be offering influenza vaccina- headache, muscle aches, extreme fatigue, of children’s vaccine at most health care Constantine, a Democrat, for the District tions. runny nose and sore throat, and a cough clinics. This program now includes fund- No. 8 seat. “The flu shot has great benefits for the that is often severe and may last seven ing for flu vaccine for all children ages 6 In District No. 6, Democrat Rich- community by protecting all of us, espe- days or more. to 59 months of age. ard Pope challenges Republican Jane cially those most at risk for complications,” Families may want to check with their Hague. said Dr. David Fleming, Director and Where to get a flu shot clinic or physician about this program. Democrat Larry Gossett is running Health Officer for Public Health, Seattle This year, flu vaccine manufacturers unopposed in District No. 2. Democrat and King County. “Flu vaccine protects plan to make available over 130 million Stop germs, stay healthy Larry Phillips is running unopposed in people by reducing the risk of getting the doses of vaccine nationally, more than Good health manners, such as covering District No. 4. flu and reducing its severity, and flu shots ever before. coughs and washing hands, avoiding close In Port of Seattle races, Gael Tarleton also protect those who cannot get im- Flu shots will be available at doctors’ of- contact with ill people, and staying home and Bob Edwards are vying for Position munized, such as infants and adults with fices and clinics, Public Health centers and from work and school when ill, can be No. 2, while Alec Fisken and Bill Bryant weakened immune systems, by reducing other providers. Some providers may also very effective in preventing transmission are running for Position No. 5. influenza among their contacts.” have available the live attenuated intranasal of disease, including the flu. King County Assessor Scott Noble, a Anyone who wants protection against vaccine, or “FluMist.” Public Health recommends that you Democrat, faces challenger Jim Nobles, the flu should receive flu vaccine. Flu vac- For complete information about in- cover your mouth and nose with a tissue a Republican. cine is especially recommended for people fluenza and where to receive a flu shot, when you cough or sneeze. If you do not In the race for King County Prosecut- who are at high risk for complications from call Public Health’s Information Line at have a tissue, cough into your sleeve. ing Attorney, interim prosecutor Dan the flu, including: 206-296-4949 or visit the Flu Season Web Wash your hands often, especially after Satterberg, a Republican, faces chal- * Children aged 6 months until their pages at www.metrokc.gov/health/immu- coughing, sneezing or using the bathroom. lenger Bill Sherman, a Democrat. fifth birthday nization/fluseason.htm. If you do not have access to water, use Satterberg has served as interim * Pregnant women Persons at high risk for influenza-related alcohol-based hand gel. prosecutor since long-time King County * People 50 years of age and older complications may also need immunization Adults and children should stay home Prosecutor Norm Maleng died of a heart * People of any age with such chronic against pneumococcal pneumonia. This from work and school when sick. attack in May. medical conditions as heart disease, lung vaccine needs to be given only once to For more information on good health For more information on the upcom- disease (including asthma), kidney disease most people, with a one-time revaccina- manners and to view educational materials, ing general election, including detailed or diabetes tion recommended for people with certain visit Public Health’s Stop Germs Web page information about candidates and mea- * People who live in nursing homes and medical conditions. at www.metrokc.gov/health/stopgerms. sures on the ballots and to find your other long-term-care facilities Persons should talk to their health care Residents and organizations of King polling place, go to www.metrokc.gov/ * People who live with or care for provider about this vaccine. County can order Stop Germs posters in elections. An election guide is available those at high risk for complications from seven languages. in Chinese at www.metrokc.gov/elec- flu should also be vaccinated, including Cost of flu shot tions/ch/index_ch.htm. household contacts of persons at high risk Flu and pneumococcal vaccines are Providing effective and innovative For information on statewide ballot for complications from the flu; household covered by Medicare Part B. If you have health and disease prevention services measures, go to vote.wa.gov/Elections/ contacts and out-of-home caregivers of Medicare coverage and belong to a man- for over 1.8 million residents and visitors Measures2007.aspx. children less than 6 months of age (these aged care plan or HMO, you should go to of King County, Public Health - Seattle & For more information on the city children are too young to be vaccinated); your regular health care provider. King County works for safer and healthier election, go to www2.ci.seattle.wa.us/ and healthcare workers If you do not have Medicare insurance, communities for everyone, every day. ethics/votersguide.asp.

The voice november 2007 Local and national news – 5 Many local food banks ramp up services for the holidays

By Claire McDaniel Nov. 17, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. for general Seattle Housing Authority public Nov. 20, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. for seniors It’s that time of year when the weather Christmas food distribution: gets cooler, the days are shorter, the leaves Dec. 19, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. for seniors turn gold and red, and our thoughts turn to Dec. 22, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. for general public the holidays. NWCS is located in the heart of the A big part of the holiday season is good Rainier Valley. This central location makes food and lots of it. It’s not easy for some it easier for people who must take the bus or of us to afford a feast or to feed our ex- walk to get food. The majority of its clients tended family during Thanksgiving and are from Beacon Hill and Rainier Valley. Christmas. NWCS distributes fresh fruits and One resource for residents of SHA com- produce, bulk grains, peanut butter, baby munities is our local food banks. food, pasta and dairy products. Food is If you have access to a computer at your collected from two nonprofit food distribu- local library or technology center, you can tion agencies. visit Food Lifeline for a list of food banks It also receives significant support from in Western at www.foodlife- area grocery stores. NWCS coordinates its line.org/hunger/distribute/index.html or services with other organizations such as the City of Seattle Food Bank Resource food banks, shelters, emergency services, Directory at www.seattle.gov/humanser- private businesses, and social service agen- Photo courtesy Northwest Community Services Food Bank vices/csd/survivalservices/emergencyfood/ cies. A volunteer at Northwest Community Services Food Bank stands ready to distribute foodbanks.htm. All donations go directly to feeding beverages to visitors. Northwest Harvest, a statewide hunger people. relief agency, also has a Web site at www. northwestharvest.org. West Seattle Food Bank Seattle has over 30 food banks serving 3419 S.W. Morgan St. various parts of the city. Seattle, WA 98126 In King County, nearly 90,000 people 206-932-9023 request food from food banks each month. Email: [email protected] Forty percent of the adults who use food Fran Yeatts, Executive Director banks are working people who use as much Clients need to bring picture identifica- as half their income to pay for rent. This tion and one additional proof of address leaves little for food. such as a bill with their name and address It’s important to find out the days and on it. times of operation for each food bank and Regular hours of operation: what particular group they are serving Tuesday, 10 – 11 a.m. for seniors only at that time. Food banks generally have Wednesday, 4 – 7 p.m. for the general special schedules for Thanksgiving and public Christmas. Thursday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. for the gen- Here are a few highlighted food banks: eral public The West Seattle Food Banks offers Photo courtesy Northwest Community Services Food Bank Northwest Community Services emergency bags to individuals on Mondays Visitors gather outside the Northwest Community Services Food Bank. Food Bank and Fridays from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 4205 Rainier Ave. S. Thanksgiving holiday distribution: Beacon Avenue Food Bank will resume Seattle WA 98118 Nov. 19, 10 – 11 a.m. for seniors only Beacon Avenue Food Bank its normal hours of 12 – 2 p.m. on Jan. 2. 206-723-4105 Nov. 19, 4 – 7 p.m. for the general 6230 Beacon Ave. S. at the corner of In 2006, Beacon Avenue Food Bank pro- Email: NWCommunityServices@ public Beacon Avenue and Graham Street vided supplemental food to 15,238 families. q.com Nov. 20, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. for the general Gretchen Tryon, Administrator These families included 13,062 seniors, Northwest Community Services (NWCS) public The food bank is open for food distribu- 14,557 adults, 15,754 children and 246 in- provides emergency services to low-income Home deliveries only on Nov. 21. tion on Wednesdays and Fridays from 12 fants, for a total of 43,620 individuals. families in Southeast Seattle. West Seattle Food Bank will be closed at – 2 p.m. It serves a culturally diverse clientele, It serves all ZIP codes but encourage 3 p.m. on Nov. 21 and all day Nov. 22 and Beacon Avenue Food Bank clients must including Vietnamese, Cambodian, Ming, clients to go to their local food bank. 23 for the Thanksgiving holiday. show original state identification. The Laotian, Chinese, Bosnian, Russian, His- Regular NWCS schedule: Christmas Holiday schedule: only data they compile is name, ZIP code, panic, African American and Caucasian Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. for general Holiday food distribution will be at regu- number of people and break down of the people. public lar hours on the week before Christmas. families served. Clients may come once a Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. for se- West Seattle Food Bank will be closed week. There are no ZIP code restrictions. Green Lake Plaza Food Bank niors and disabled on Dec. 24 and 25 for Christmas. Holiday food distribution: This resident-run food bank has been Every third Friday, 9 – 11 a.m., is baby There will not be a senior distribution Nov. 21, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. in existence for 11 years and is managed day during the weeks of Christmas and the New It will be closed Nov. 23 for Thanksgiv- by Green Lake Plaza resident Glenn Slem- For homebound service, caregivers can Year’s holiday. ing. mer. pick up a bag every Friday from 9 – 11 The West Seattle Food Bank will be Dec. 19 – 21, 12 – 2 p.m. The Green Lake Plaza Food Bank is a.m. closed on Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 for the New It will be closed Dec. 24 through Jan. 1 unique because it hands out large volumes Holiday hours for Thanksgiving: Year’s holiday. for Christmas and New Year’s. of fresh fruits and vegetables. (Most food banks aren’t able to store them so they shy away from anything that 1. The essay must be between 750 clarity of expression, organization, and spoils quickly.) Essay contest open and 1,000 words and must be typed and grammar. Slemmer goes to the store at 4 a.m. every to all King County doubled spaced on white 8.5” by 11” 6. All essays submitted become the Sunday to sort the produce. He then loads paper. property of the Commission and may the fruits, vegetables, eggs, pastries and eighth-graders 2. Contestants must submit one typed be displayed on County web pages, in bread, and takes them to Green Lake Plaza original and one typed copy of the essay, County publications, in local publica- by noon, where the food is distributed by the local community council from 4 – 7 King County Civil Rights by mail. tions, and in the King County Tunnel. p.m. that same day. Commission 3. The name, address, home phone Submitted essays will not be returned. number, e-mail address, school, grade A $100 prize will be awarded for first For its other food stuffs, the Green Lake The King County Civil Rights Com- and age of student author must be sub- place, as well as $75 for second place and Plaza Food Bank gets food from Food mission has opened the Ninth Annual mitted on a cover page, accompanying $50 for third. Lifeline and Family Works Food Bank, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Writing Es- the essay. Do not place your name on All essays must be postmarked by Fri- partners with Solid-Ground (http://www. say Contest to all eighth-grade students any other page. day, Nov. 30 and mailed to King County solid-ground.org/Pages/Default.aspx). who attend public and private schools in 4. All essays must be in English and Civil Rights Commission, 400 Yesler Every second Wednesday, Solid-Ground King County. include a bibliography, utilizing at least Way, Room 260, Seattle, WA 98104. Es- delivers 42 boxes full of fresh and frozen The theme of the contest is “The Be- one book source, but no more than one says postmarked after that date will not food. loved Community.” web site source. be considered. Green Lake Plaza Food Bank will be The contest is meant to encourage 5. All essays will be judged on the Winners will be notified by mail. distributing on its regular schedule for the middle and junior high student to think author’s: knowledge of Dr. King and Awards will be presented to the winners holidays. about Dr. King’s legacy of peace and his work in the Civil Rights Movement, at the Annual King County Dr. Martin If you need more information, call Slem- justice. originality of ideas, development of point Luther King Jr. Day Celebration on Jan. mer at 206-524-9603 between 6 a.m. and Contest rules: of view, insight into the essay theme, 10, 2008 in downtown Seattle. 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The voice 6 - classIfIEds NoVEMBEr 2007 ClassifiedsClassifieds THE MarkETplacE of THE VoIcE

MISCELLANEOUS RECRUITMENT & TRAINING

In redmond NoW hIrINg for Cashiers in Woodinville Shifts: Part time - evenings & weekends required We’ve Raised Our Starting Wage: $9.00 hour Starting Wage! Overnight Stocking Cashiers - FT/PT and Push Teams Shifts: 10pm to 6am/flexible schedule Jewelry Specialist Starting Wage: $9.50 hour + $1.50 differential Shoe Specialist Please Apply/Submit Application at the Kiosk FT Overnight Stocking Store Location: Dayside Stocking 17700 NE 76th StrEEt rEdmoNd, WA 98052 Now Hiring for the Holidays! CAll: 425-556-9533 or Apply Inside: E-mail [email protected] For more Information 13950 NE 178th Place Woodinville, WA or Call 425-482-6410

To place your ad in in Factoria Now HiriNg The Voice All PositioNs Team Leaders contact Overnight Logistics Sales Floor [email protected] Food Ave. Cashiers $9-$15/Hour today! Apply inside: 4053 Factoria Square Mall, Bellevue or Call Kate 425-562-0830

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THE VoIcE NOVEMBER 2007 NOVEMBER 2007 Classifieds - 7 ClassifiedsClassifieds THE Marketplace of The VOICE

RECRUITMENT & TRAINING RECRUITMENT & TRAINING CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS

Items for Sale Free

Canon Pixma IPI500 photo printer Free Esperanto Language with power cord, ink tanks, black Lessons. Esperanto is four times color. Software user’s guide. Excellent easier than English. condition. $25. 206-325-6455. Speak with your neighbors from around the world. Paper and wood fan decorated with For information flowers 60”wide, 38” high, $68/obo. 206-600-1178 WorkSource Provides 5.8 digital AT&T telephone cordless or seattleesperanto.org. with battery backup $40. Air purifier • Job Preparedness Workshops $10. 206-853-8334 Items by Donation • One on One Career Guidance TEACHERS/SUBSTITUTES Let’s enhance your home and/or office custom fantasia • Weekly Hiring Events West Seattle YMCA is looking to hire PT teachers and substitutes. psychedelic bold unique Preschool and school age. original style variety of Call Karen: 206-935-6000 ext.120 subjects almost anything goes These services are FREE and open to the public. of West Seattle E-mail: [email protected] acrylic paint on canvas 206 323 8226 Translation services are available upon request.

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Market place coupon Do you have a couch or other item you want to sell? Take advantage of the free person-to-person classified advertising in The Voice by filling out your 24-word ad below. Remember, write only one word per line and don’t forget to include your telephone number in your ad! Mail your ad before the 18th of the month and it will be included in the next month’s issue.

Name ______Address ______City ______State ______ZIP ______Telephone ______E-mail ______

Write your ad here (one word per line)

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