Free each Volume 35 month Issue 12 A community-based newspaper serving the Puget Sound area since 1981

December 2016 Articles translated into six languages

The newspaperTheThe of Neighborhood House —VoiceVoice visit our website at www.voice.seattlehousing.net Quieting the mind amidst a chaotic world through meditation

f every 8 year old in the Rather, it's what one hears when taking class at a handful of Senior Housing a class on mindfulness meditation, taught Program communities in the northend. “I world is taught med- by Lee Rogers, a resident of Schwabacher If you haven't tried it, don't expect it itation, we will eliminate vio- House. to necessarily come easily. She says it's a lence from the world within But it's a restful, effortless and relaxed lifelong practice. breathing that the group's members are col- "You’re going to have maybe five days one generation."—Dalai Lama lectively practicing. Nothing seems forced. in a row when you can’t turn that brain off. Mindfulness meditation is derived from You just have to focus on the breathing, and By Nancy Gardner Buddhism, but doesn’t bear any of the re- you just keep trying it," Rogers says. The Voice editor ligious qualities and is suitable for anyone The benefits will vary from person to and everyone. Your only real goal is to focus person, but some studies show meditation There's a lot of heavy breathing going your mind on your breathing. If you can set can lower blood pressure, boost the immune on these days at the Ballard Senior Center. aside about 10 minutes each day, Rogers system, reduce stress and lower anxiety and And it's not only coming from people believes anyone can do it. depression levels. taking Laughter Yoga or Zumba classes, She's such a strong believer in the power Meditation is said to help lower stress, either. of meditation that she frequently teaches the Please see “Meditation” on Page 5 blood pressure and depression levels. Rainier Vista residents take back their streets By transforming busy thoroughfare into a pedestrian-friendly, community park

By Seattle Dept. of Transportation back and performance data before making the enhancements permanent." On Nov. 3, the Seattle Department of Rainier Vista community members Transportation (SDOT), in partnership with requested that SDOT close the block in the Seattle Housing Authority (SHA), held a response to speeding traffic in the neighbor- grand opening for a new Pavement to Parks hood. SDOT included the project as a 2016 project in the Rainier Vista neighborhood. Pavement to Parks installation to increase The new park space includes planters, space for play and community activities, seating, turf mounds, and a street mural while reducing speeding on surrounding designed by local youth. streets and improving pedestrian safety. "This project is a great example of the SDOT and the Rainier Vista Neighbor- positive outcomes that come from col- hood Traffic Safety Committee gathered laboration between government and the ideas for the design of the project during community," said Seattle Mayor Ed Murray. outreach events. "We are activating an open space in a way "I’m proud of the community engage- that is driven by the community, improves ment by Rainier Vista residents that led safety and livability and reflects the cultural to this project, and the partnership of the South Genesee Street, just to the diversity in Rainier Vista." Seattle Department of Transportation in south of Rainier Vista's Central This Pavement to Parks project repur- making it happen," said SHA Executive Park, has been converted into a new poses a portion of S Genesee St., between Director Andrew Lofton. "The new park public space through the Seattle 29th Ave S and Jill Place S, for an expanded solves what was a traffic safety issue and, Department of Transportation's park space in the neighborhood. Built under with its colorful new mural painted by Pavement to Parks program. Local SDOT’s Adaptive Streets Program, the youth, provides a vibrant play area and youths helped design the street project uses low-cost, adaptable materials neighborhood gathering place." mural (above) and celebrated to test a public space on the street before SDOT will evaluate the Rainier Vista with officials at the ribbon-cutting permanent changes take place. Pavement to Parks project over the next two ceremony Nov. 3 (at right). The "The Pavement to Parks project in Rain- years. If successful, SHA will work with the project uses low-cost, adaptable ier Vista provides a great example of the City to build the project as a permanent park materials to test a public space on benefits of the Adaptive Streets Program," extension in the neighborhood. the street before permanent changes said SDOT Director Scott Kubly. "By work- For more information about SDOT’s take place. ing with residents to install experimental Adaptive Streets Program contact Susan and low-cost safety enhancements, the City McLaughlin at 206-733-9649 or susan. is better poised to quickly respond to the [email protected], or visit www. Photos courtesy of sdot specific needs of the neighborhood, while seattle.gov/transportation/AdaptiveStreets. allowing time to review community feed- htm.

Neighborhood House Nonprofit org. The Weller Building U.S. postage PAID In this issue 1225 S. Weller St. Suite 510 Seattle, WA Health Notes Page 2 Seattle, WA 98144 Permit #8887 Making mental health a priority

SHA News Page 3 Emergency workshop takeaways

Bits & Bytes Page 5 Cheap holiday gift ideas

Page 7 Translations 2 – THE VOICE DECember 2016 Health Notes Be Safe A column devoted to your Free trainings on crime well-being prevention available By Jake Hellenkamp Personal Safety Making mental health a priority Project Coordinator Only carry the things that you need with We can all make simple changes in our you when leaving the house. Don’t keep By Susan Johnson According to recent statistics, 43.4 mil- lives to reduce the risk of becoming crime large amounts of cash, multiple credit cards, Regional Director, US Department of lion adults aged 18 or older experienced victims and keep ourselves safer. Seattle your cell phone, keys or valuables in one Health and Human Services, Region 10 some form of mental illness in the past Neighborhood Group (SNG) offers free place. Secure items in different pockets or year, and the CDC projects depression will trainings on a variety of crime prevention bags that can be zipped. Many of us ignore physical symptoms— be the second leading cause of disability topics to community groups and residential Vehicle Security an aching tooth, a shoulder that locks up, worldwide by 2020. sites that serve immigrants, seniors and Keep the inside of your car clean and early signs of diabetes or high blood pres- Though disabling when symptoms low-income people in Seattle. remove all valuables from sight when you sure. Maybe we’re afraid of the dentist and persist, depression is treatable and most We often partner with interpreters to park your car and either take them with you don’t want to face possible surgery, or don’t Americans greatly improve with treatment, share useful and relevant information with or put them in your trunk. This will reduce want to deal with medications and lifestyle services and recovery supports. groups that need information in languages the likelihood that car prowlers will smash changes. Signs of depression include experiencing other than English. Trainings last about 30 your window and grab your belongings. We may also ignore signs of depression some of the following, most of the day, for minutes and many groups request to learn Identity Theft and Fraud and other mental illnesses for a variety of at least two weeks: about multiple topics at once. Presentation Identity theft can happen many different reasons. We might feel mental illness is • Persistent sad, anxious or ‘empty’ topics include Calling 911, Personal Safety, ways, including data breaches by email or a sign of weakness, or fear that friends, mood Suspicious Activities, Vehicle Security, and phone or when someone steals your mail. family or employers would judge us or • Feelings of hopelessness or pes- Identity Theft and Fraud. NEVER give out personal identifying infor- discriminate against us. simism The following is a sample of information mation, such as your social security number Already, too many Americans experi- • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or from each of the presentations we provide, or account numbers, to a stranger who ence prejudice, discrimination, abuse and helplessness designed to get you thinking about ways contacts you over the phone or with email. victimization based on a mental health di- • Loss of interest or pleasure in hob- to better protect yourselves and your com- If you think your identity has been stolen, agnosis. And for too long, Americans paid bies and activities munities: report it to police immediately and contact a for health insurance that did not recognize • Decreased energy or fatigue Calling 911 credit bureau to place a fraud alert on your that treatment for mental health and sub- • Difficulty concentrating, remember- You should call 911 when there is an credit report. stance use disorders is as essential as other ing, or making decisions emergency, a dangerous situation, suspi- If you know of a group of people who medical treatment. • Difficulty sleeping, early-morning cious activity, or if you need a quick re- would benefit from learning these safety It’s time for us to let people who are awakening, or oversleeping sponse for a crime in progress or one that tips, please contact us to learn more and living with mental health conditions know • Appetite and/or weight changes just occurred. There is a non-emergency schedule a presentation at www.info@sngi. that they are not alone. • Thoughts of death or suicide, or line to report crimes that have already org 206-323-9666 or visit our website for A recent report from the Mental Health suicide attempts taken place and do not require immediate more information at www.sngi.org. and Substance Use Disorder Parity Task • Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, assistance, which is 206-625-5011. Force includes a series of new actions and or digestive problems without a clear The mission of Seattle Neighborhood If a caller needs 9-1-1 assistance in an- recommendations to ensure that insurance physical cause and/or that do not ease Group is to prevent crime and build other language, they should start the con- coverage for mental health and substance even with treatment community through partnerships with versation with the dispatcher by saying, “I use disorder services is comparable to—or Physical diseases like diabetes, arthritis, residents, businesses, law enforcement speak (name of language)” in English and at parity with—general medical care be- or heart disease can increase your risk of and other organizations. Contact Jake at they will be connected with an interpreter. cause, just as with other illnesses, we can’t depression. Factors such as age, gender, 206-323-7094 or [email protected]. afford to neglect our mental health. ethnicity, family history, major life changes Mental illnesses take huge tolls on and where you live can also play a role in individuals and society as a whole. The depression. annual direct and indirect economic costs Help is available. If you or someone of mental illnesses in the US, particularly you love shows signs of depression or an- untreated mental illnesses, are estimated to other mental illness, the first step is to get be in the hundreds of billions. screened. For 24-hour emotional support Productivity and income are reduced, and referrals to treatment and recovery healthcare costs for other illnesses rise, services anywhere in the state, call or visit and addiction, homelessness and disability http://www.warecoveryhelpline.org or call rates rise. Most importantly, individuals 1-866-789-1511. and families suffer. SHA's New AmeriCorps Youth Connector By Seattle Housing Authority She is excited to meet youth Mary Ruffin recently joined Seattle in the commu- Housing Authority (SHA) as the Ameri- nity and help Corps Youth Connector. She will be acting create useful as an onsite resource connector for youth programming. (ages 16-24) who are looking for education If you would and employment opportunities at NewHolly like to contact and Rainier Vista. Mary, you can Mary is a 2015 graduate of the University email her at of . As an SHA resident, she has NewHolly youth get fired up worked with youth in various capacities. [email protected] As part of National Fire Prevention Week in October, HAI Group (a national provider of insurance to housing authorities) part- The Voice Editor Contributing Writers nered with the National Fire Protection Nancy Gardner Batholomew Kimani Association and local fire departments to 206-461-8430, ext. 2051 Kristin O'Donnell sponsor an annual Fire Safety Poster Con- [email protected] Ben Wong test. This year’s theme was "Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every Ten Years," and young residents cre- ated posters about having a working smoke The Voice, the newspaper of Neighborhood House, is published monthly with the support of Seattle Housing Authority. Neighborhood House helps diverse communities of people with alarm in every bedroom. limited resources attain their goals for self-sufficiency, financial independence and community Four firefighters from the Seattle Fire building. The Voice contributes to that mission by providing low-income people, immigrants, Department attended NewHolly’s Neigh- refugees and other concerned parties with timely, relevant news. Opinions expressed do not borhood Night to judge the posters and se- necessarily reflect those of the staff, Neighborhood House or Seattle Housing Authority. We lect eight winners. The firefighters were so welcome articles and tips from the community and reserve the right to edit all submissions. impressed by the winning posters they plan The Voice is published online at www.nhwa.org and at www.seattlehousing.org. to use them for future community events and display them at Station 12. Visit www. FPW.org to see more about the contest.

The Voice DECember SEATTLE HOUSING NEWS 2016 News and information about Seattle’s neighborhoods - visit our website at www.voice.seattlehousing.net A world of Joy Disaster preparedness workshop SHA Community Builder Joy Bryngelson bids farewell draws large group Yun Son, a Yesler- By Kristin O'Donnell A list of vital emergency supplies, area resident who SHA resident prepared by FEMA for persons with dis- helped organize a abilities, recommends keeping the follow- farewell party for Fires. Earthquakes. Floods. Catastrophic ing: Water—one gallon per day per person; Joy, joined other weather. How can we prepare for, and man- food and a can opener; flashlight; first aid residents in wishing age better, in the immediate aftermath of supplies and prescriptions; a whistle; dust Joy well in her a disaster? Speakers from The American mask; garbage bags, toilet paper and wet new venture. Of Red Cross, Seattle City Light, Seattle Fire wipes; battery-operated or crank radio (or her time spent at Department and Seattle Housing Authority a close neighbor who has one) along with SHA, Bryngelson (SHA) presented information on what to extra batteries; a cell phone charger; and said, "They’ve do in an emergency to more than 60 SHA food and water for pets. taught me so much residents who gathered at Jefferson Terrace Jefferson Terrace resident Melody Blan- about community on Nov. 10. kenship expressed concern about being able organizing, creating Seattle Housing Authority Residents Pre- to keep supplies on hand. projects together, paring (SHARP) committee members Jim “We can’t store the stuff. We can’t afford and forming Bush, Mindy Henderson, Jerry Ingram, El- it. We can’t keep money back,” she said. relationships and lie Rhoads, Julie Sahlberg and Sean Turner Event presenters said that shelters and friendships based coordinated the event. emergency points of distribution would be on trust and a belief "We get out as much information to established after a disaster. that people can work people as we can," Henderson said. "A lot Learn about steps you can take to make together to create of people are hard to reach, but we hope that you better prepared for disasters, big and change." people who are here will share what they small, by visiting http://www.seattle.gov/ learn with neighbors." emergency-management/preparedness. Resident interest in learning about emer- The Office of Emergency Manage- gency preparedness has increased in recent ment has emergency preparedness mate- By Voice Staff years, and some suggestions were made rial translated into 19 languages at http:// about how to improve future workshops. www.seattle.gov/emergency-management/ She was the first Community Builder at Seattle Housing Authority, beginning at "I learned a lot, but we need this more resource-library/multi-language-resources NewHolly in 1999 as a recent graduate student in social work, and over the next 17 years than once a year and we need to learn CPR," SHARP is seeking more resident orga- she worked a bit at High Point, Rainier Vista and finally, Yesler. Residents of the Yesler said Hong Zheng, a resident of Jefferson nizers. Please contact Ellen Ziontz at 206- community gathered recently to thank her for all she did. She will be missed throughout Terrace. 239-1625 for more information. our communities and we thank her for such dedication, grace under pressure and well, Mary Corley of Westwood Heights con- the joy she brought to so many! curred. "We need more emergency drills in the buildings."

SHA staff volunteer at Seattle-King County Clinic In three years, more than 12,000 people have received free health care

By Seattle Housing Authority SHA volunteers Xuan Che- Twenty-two Seattle Housing Authority (SHA) staff members joined thousands of other Osser served volunteers at the Seattle-King County Clinic held at Seattle Center Oct. 27 – 30. as a Cantonese "I loved volunteering with the clinic and helping fit patients with new shoes," said SHA's interpreter for Beka Smith. "Many of the people I met had been through a pretty rough day—getting up patients (at right) incredibly early, waiting in line, and going through sometimes painful dental and medical while Beka Smith procedures. The Clinic was very well run and volunteering felt like a great use of my time. (below, left) I’d love to do it again next year." helped them fit The four-day volunteer-driven event brought together healthcare organizations, civic agen- into free shoes cies, non-profits, private businesses and volunteers from across our state to provide a full range that were donated of free dental, vision and medical care, valued at more than $3.94 million, to 4,492 patients. by Brooks Sports. SHA and Neighborhood House partnered with the Clinic to publicize the event so that SHA For four days, residents could learn about and take advantage of the services. KeyArena was In summing up the experience, one patient said, "These four days were a haven of human- turned into a ity and compassion at their best. The message to me was very clear: hope in a hurting world. massive health Thank you for that hope and easing my suffering and the suffering of so many people in need." clinic. Photo by SHA

Photo by SHA

Photo courtesy of Seattle Center

the voice 4 – THE VOICE DECember 2016 Lessons to learn from: immigrant describes his journey out of poverty Hard work and optimism yield professional and personal rewards for young Kenyan

By Batholomew Kimani by the Manufacturing Academy (MA) at of its startup companies, and so far I love Special to The Voice the Georgetown campus of South Seattle the energy I've encountered from everyone College. and am truly excited about being a part of My name is Batholomew Henya Kimani. The 13-week program, sponsored by this opportunity. I was born in Kenya in 1981 and emigrated the Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship Com- And, I decided to enroll in another class, to the U.S. when I was 19 years old with mittee, was divided into five weeks of CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Ma- nothing more than the clothes on my back classwork in which a variety of skills were chining, offered at South Seattle College. and $6 in my pocket. taught in preparation for an eight-week paid I'm learning more about the manufacturing I recently reached two of the greatest internship offered through two participat- process and 3-D technology. milestones of my life—I graduated from ing manufacturing companies. A year from now, I envision myself on Washington State University with a mas- Neighborhood House got me through a continued path of increased training and ter’s degree in material science engineering some very difficult times, including being becoming industry-specific certified while and I became a naturalized United States homeless. Most notably, they provided me I gain more experience as a materials or citizen. with gas cards for transportation to and process engineer. Despite these accomplishments, I found from my parent’s house for the duration And for other young people out there it difficult to get my slice of the American of the five-week program, a difficult task who may be faced with similar challenges pie. I was frustrated and angry at the sys- with my unemployment benefits exhausted. as I have? I would tell them to humble tem. The way I saw it, I did everything I They also paid my enrollment costs for themselves and to not go through life with was supposed to. the MA pre-apprentice program, and when a sense of entitlement. I was finally offered the job of my dreams Humility goes a long way in this day stayed out of trouble and The writer, Batholomew Kimani, credits many local agencies for helping him reach at the end of the session, they offered to and age. I'm just fortunate enough to have worked hard to maintain “I his career and academic aspirations. assist me with relocation costs to help me recognized its worth at an early age. positive influences from fam- get back on my feet. I am eternally grateful to Neighborhood ily and friends and applied to House for their involvement in my life and countless jobs in my field of Throughout my life, my parents re- my community. If it weren’t for Joyce and study."—Batholomew Kimani minded me to stay humble but hungry. I her funding, I would never have had the took every opportunity to attend career opportunity to refine my resume, acquire and job fairs sponsored by WorkSource. It certifications, or learn how to effectively I stayed out of trouble. I worked hard to was during one of my visits to their office conduct myself during a job interview. pay for my education throughout commu- in Renton that I was fortunate enough to be After five short weeks, I received a job nity college, undergraduate and graduate introduced to Joyce St. Jean with Neighbor- offer from a distinguished company in East- studies, maintained positive influences hood House. ern Washington, where I was told I could from family and friends, and applied to After a brief conversation, she im- gain experience and work my way up the countless jobs in my field of study. Unem- mediately recognized that the main chal- career ladder. ployment benefits became my lifeline after lenge I was facing was a lack of practical I thought about taking this offer but my hours got cut at a caregiver position experience in a manufacturing environ- ultimately decided to stay in the Puget that I had taken to pay bills and help make ment and recommended that I enroll in Sound, where I was offered a position at the ends meet. the pre-apprenticeship program offered working for one

Wintertime activities at Seattle Center through Dec. 31

By Voice Staff Garfield Jazz Band; Dec. 10, 12:30 p.m. with permission from the Harvey Phillips - 1:30 p.m., Armory. Nationally renowned Foundation, Inc. Free and inexpensive, fun-filled activi- Garfield Jazz Band performs a high energy, Dickens Carolers; Dec. 24, 12:30 - ties and entertainment continue at the Se- deeply harmonious holiday concert. 1:30 p.m., Armory. A quartet of Victo- attle Center Winterfest through the end of SANCA Cirrus Circus; Dec. 11, 12:30 rian costumed carolers sings your favorite 2016. All admissions to events and activities p.m. - 1:30 p.m., Armory. SANCA Youth seasonal-themed music in perfect four-part are free of charge, unless indicated. More Company creates and performs original acts harmony. Since 1978, the Carolers have High Point Branch information at www.seattlecenter.com/ in aerial arts, juggling, tightwire, clown- offered Seattle audiences traditional and winterfest or 206-684-7200. ing, unicycle and acrobatics. Watch these contemporary holiday favorites. closes Dec. 5 for Winterfest Ice Rink; Runs through Jan. talented kids as they delight a transfixed New Year's Eve Celebration; Dec. 31, 2, 2017, Sunday – Thursday, 11 a.m. - 8 Armory audience. 8 p.m. - 12 a.m., Armory, Grounds. Rock refurbishing p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Seattle's Best Damn Happy Hour; in 2017 with two signature events at Seattle Closes at 4 p.m. on Dec 24, closed Dec. 25, Dec. 15, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m., Armory. Offering Center. Rock band The Machine plays the The High Point Branch, 3411 SW Ray- open until 11:30 p.m. on Dec. 31, Fisher Pa- a spirited respite from the holiday mania, Armory Stage from 8 p.m. to midnight, mond St., 206-684-7454, will temporarily vilion. Admission: $8 for adults, $6 children this happy hour boasts great food, specialty while outside the Fountain of Light dance close effective Monday, Dec. 5 for refur- ages 6-12, $2 children ages five and under, cocktails and DJ music, while engaging party mounts a live electronic music and bishing. The book drop also will close. includes skate rental. Cash, check, Visa or happy revelers in amusing games and video projection show by local DJs and After 12 years of use, the branch needs Mastercard. prizes, big and small. VJs starting at 10 p.m. at the International new carpet. While the branch is closed, Seattle Girls' Choir; Dec. 3, 1 p.m. - 2 Klez Chaos; Dec. 18, 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 Fountain. All leading up to luminous mid- patrons may choose any other library as a p.m., Armory. Listen to seasonal favorites p.m., Armory. This motley crew of klezmer night fireworks. pickup location for items placed on hold and sung with perfection by Seattle's premier musicians offers world Jewish music and return materials to any branch. Girls’ Choir. mirth. In the interim, patrons' holds will be sent Northwest Boychoir Apprentices; Dec. Greater Seattle TUBACHRISTMAS; to the Southwest Branch, 9010 35th Ave. 4, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m., Armory. Young singers Dec. 18, 3 p.m. - 4 p.m., Armory. Scores of SW, 206-684-7455. from a premier choir perform seasonal tuba players gather to play seasonal music classics. as only a tuba ensemble can! Presented About The Voice Visit our website: The Voice is a monthly newspaper published by Neighborhood House with voice.seattlehousing.net financial support from Seattle Housing Authority. The Voice is developed and edited by Neighborhood House with help from Seattle Housing residents and staff. It strives to provide a forum for objective news and information of interest to low- • Exclusive content • Share income people and those living in Seattle Housing communities. articles over email or on If you’d like to submit an article, or if you have a question about anything you’ve read in this publication, please contact Editor Nancy Gardner at 206-461-8430, Facebook Photo courtesy of michael maggs / wikimedia commons ext. 2051 or by email at [email protected]. All submissions are subject to editing for accuracy, style and length.

The voice DECember 2016 THE VOICE – 5

it’s more affordable. The Family Access Membership offers anyone on public as- Bits & bytes sistance an amazing year of experiences RAC meeting Dec. 14 Tech toys for a trim for $19. Benefits include unlimited visits to a tropical butterfly house, intriguing in- SHA housing operations budget teractive exhibits, and planetarium shows. administrator will lead discussion Editor's note: Computing and its cave- Truly something for everyone. Contact the ats is a popular topic, and to help address membership office: 206-443-2924. some of your concerns we'll be featuring Where to shop Jake LeBlanc, Seattle Housing this column periodically. Seattle Housing Seattle has a wealth of stores where one Authority (SHA) Property Manage- Authority (SHA) resident and computer lab can find discounted technology gadgets. ment Administrator, will be a guest instructor Ben Wong wants to hear from Here are some of the best: speaker at Resident Action Council's you. If you have a topic you'd like him to InterConnection.org (RAC) December general membership tackle, contact him care of The Voice. If your income is verifiably low, Inter- meeting. link that your gift recipient can use to down- Connection.org in Fremont (3415 Stone A light potluck lunch will begin at By Ben Wong load all the games to a phone, tablet or PC. Way) is the absolute best place to buy a 1 p.m. All SHA residents are welcome SHA resident Beat the winter blues−literally computer for yourself or as a gift. For to attend LeBlanc's presentation, which Did you know you can beat the winter instance, a basic desktop or laptop can be starts at 1:30 p.m. A question and Season's Greetings! It’s Ben, your friend- blues using a specific wavelength of bright purchased for between $79-$99. Be sure to answer period follows, so be sure to ly neighborhood computer guy. This month, blue light from a lamp called a 'light box'? bring in your old machine for recycling and come prepared to share your thoughts we’re looking at tech gifts we can give while They’re about $80 new online, but used ones get 20 percent off your purchase. or concerns about housing operations. on a limited budget. show up frequently in Seattle thrift stores RePC RAC meets the second Wednesday The video game kids really want: you for around $12. If buying used, test it first RePC sells new and used computer sys- of each month in the Jefferson Terrace Consider giving kids the rarely acknowl- as replacement bulbs can be pricey. tems and parts. A pair of wireless bluetooth Community Room, 800 Jefferson St. edged gift they truly desire — spend time in Sleep on it speakers ($10-20) can make a good gift for Attendees receive free bus tickets their world. Talk to them about what games While we need very bright blue light someone who likes to listen to music on and RAC will reimburse carpool they’re most excited by. Consider asking in the day, even a little blue light at night their phone. Visit repc.com for locations. driver's mileage. If you have questions them to "show you how to play." You don’t suppresses melatonin and disrupts sleep. Goodwill or need an interpreter call 206-930- actually have to play, but really listen to Televisions, computers and phones are the The main Seattle Goodwill store at 1400 6228 or email residentcouncilseattle@ them. Ask them about the story, what makes main culprits. One solution is special night S. Dearborn offers a treasure trove of gifts, gmail.com. it so much fun, and what sort of game they glasses. Functional ones by Uvex can be but shopping for electronics can be tricky would write. Kids crave a chance to tell purchased for $10 on amazon.com since some items are in need of repair. At Center Park Elections their stories and to share with you what’s Don’t want glasses? No problem. There’s a minimum, see if the device powers on. The following were elected Nov. 21 important to them. a free app that automatically adjusts the Goodwill provides a test counter with power to the Center Park Resident Council: HumbleBundle amount of blue on a computer screen, de- outlets, but you’ll need to bring your own If you decide to give video games as a pending upon the time of day (justgetflux. batteries. If you buy a dud, there’s a seven- President - Julie Sahlberg gift, by far the best deal around is Humble- com). day return policy for store credit. Seniors Vice President - Allegra Keys Bundle.com which offers monthly inde- An entire year of learning and military personnell get 20 percent off Treasurer - Sari T. Moore pendent "indie" video games for a single, The Pacific Science Center is one of the purchases on Wednesdays. pay-what-you-will price. You’ll receive a most exciting places in Seattle, and now Secretary - J.M. (Jim) Bush

ment factor−that this [substance abuse] is Meditation just an experience you've had and it's not the Continued from Page 1 totality of who you are," she says. Rogers adds that those same women told her after practicing mindfulness meditation Those are some of the benefits Lee Eh- that they'd used drugs to get the same high rheart sought when he registered to take that they get through meditation. Roger's class. He says he also wants to try "They said they wish they'd known about retraining his mind to live in the present the power of healing through meditation moment. and learned how to love themselves rather "The breathing exercises help us focus than just numbing their bodies," Rogers in the moment and live in the quietness of adds. the moment. Spiritually, we're ultimately Rather than sit with one's eyes closed, trying to find harmony within ourselves," Rogers recommends meditating while says Ehrheart. gazing about five-to-10 feet ahead of where The 78-year-old recovering alcoholic you're sitting. also says daily meditation helps him main- Sit up straight on a chair or the floor, and tain his sobriety. focus all of your attention on the feeling of And helping people through substance your breath coming in and going out. Just abuse issues is something Rogers knows a the feeling of your breath, she says. When Photos by Nancy Gardner great deal about. For many years she taught you find your mind wandering ("I have so Lee Rogers, center, leads a discussion about mindfulness meditation at the Ballard women who were addicted to drugs and much to do today! When is that bill due?" Senior Center. She has taught classes on meditation for drug and alcohol addicted alcohol how to cope with their emotions for instance), then begin again. And again, women in her home state of Tennessee and wants to work in the same capacity with through mindfulness meditation. until you get better and better. "I wanted to help them remove the judg- prison populations here in King County.

Seniors celebrate computer class graduation Please recycle me Rainier Vista area residents show it's never too late to learn new mouse clicks Last month, a computer class series at Rainier Vista Neighborhood House gradu- Content guide ated nine seniors, including two who were born in the 1930s. Don’t see your neighbor- The classes were taught by the Seattle hood section? Consult the guide Public Library in partnership with Seattle below to find the logos that Housing Authority, Neighborhood House correspond to your community. and the City of Seattle and were designed specifically for older students. Seattle Public Library's Chris Tantoco, High Point Herald Toby Thomas and Kim-Ninh Van taught the class. NewHolly Notes The class was extremely popular and will be held again next year. To be placed on the waiting list for future classes at Rainier Rainier Vista News Vista, contact SHA Community Builder Jen Calleja at 206-722-4010 ext. 12. Yesler Happenings

Photo by Jen Calleja

The voice 6 – THE VOICE DECember 2016 Community resources

Around the Elections 2016 Sound roundup By Voice staff

By City of Seattle As of The Voice’s press deadline, the following election results were available. Community talks will focus Final results would be ready Nov. 29 when on affordable housing certification is completed.

The Seattle Department of Neigh- Governor borhoods (SDN), in collaboration with (Democrat): 56.3% other City departments, is seeking Bill Bryant (Republican): 43.7% feedback on a new program to create affordable housing in our neighbor- U.S. Senator hoods and, more specifically, on the (D): 60.8% proposed zoning changes required to Chris Vance (R): 39.2% make that happen. Beginning Dec. 3 and continuing Congressional District 7 into January, 2017, SDN will host five (D): 57.2% events around the city designed to Brady Walkinshaw (D): 42.8% solicit feedback on a new affordable housing program. Attendees can see Lieutenant Governor neighborhood maps showing afford- Cyrus Habib (D): 55.8% able housing proposals and the zoning Marty McClendon (R): 44.2% changes required to make that happen. There will also be opportunities to Secretary of State learn about area transportation proj- Kim Wyman (R): 53.15% ects, hear what’s going on at the Office Tina Podlodowsi (D): 46.85% of Sustainability and Environment, and give feedback on upcoming parks StateTreasurer investments. Duane Davidson (D): 58.66% Addresses for the following five Michael Waite (R): 41.34% events can be found at www.seattle. Community Notes gov/neighborhoods/: State Auditor • Dec. 3, 10 a.m. - noon Pat McCarthy (D): 54.02% Mark Miloscia (R): 45.98% Bitter Lake Community Center Executive Constantine outlines potential impacts of • Dec. 7, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Shelby’s Bistro and Ice Creamery Trump Administration Attorney General • Dec. 13, 6 - 8 p.m. Bob Ferguson (D): 69.2% Ravenna Community Center By King County Executive Joshua Trumbull (Libertarian): 30.8% • Jan. 10, 2017, 6 - 8 p.m. Optimism Brewing Following the election of Donald Trump as president, King County Executive Commissioner of Public Lands • Jan. 21, 2017, 10 a.m. - noon Dow Constantine asked his Cabinet for a full review of federal funding and policies. Hilary Franz (D): 54.89% The Royal Room President-elect Trump and Republican leaders in Congress have made policy Steve McLaughlin (R): 45.11% statements regarding the Affordable Care Act (ACA), domestic programs, envi- ronmental priorities and infrastructure spending. Superintendent of Public Instruction At a news conference on Nov. 15 following a meeting of Executive Constantine’s Chris Reykdal: 51.15% cabinet, four department leaders outlined key federal programs: Erin Jones: 48.85%

• Patty Hayes, Director, Public Health – Seattle & King County Insurance Commissioner • Adrienne Quinn, Director, Department of Community and Human Services Mike Kreidler (D): 60.02% • Christie True, Director, Department of Natural Resources and Parks Richard Schrock (R): 39.98% • Rob Gannon, General Manager, King County Metro Proposition 1 (Sound Transit 3) Among the top concerns for King County are: Approved: 54.8% Rejected: 45.2% • More than 200,000 people in King County could be at risk for losing their health insurance if the ACA is repealed or diminished. Initiative 1433 • Demand for public health clinics could rise. Last year, 90,000 King County Raises state minimum wage, requires paid residents accessed basic health services through 10 Public Health Centers sick leave. and about 20 satellite operations. Yes: 59.5% • Mental health and substance abuse funding contained in the ACA could No: 40.5% be reduced. • Funding for Department of Housing and Urban Development could be Initiative 1501 reduced, impacting homelessness programs. Exempts certain information about in-home • Federal coal leasing programs could allow for more coal extraction. Federal caregivers and clients from disclosure. agencies could allow more oil and coal terminals. Yes: 71.6% • Environmental policies could change to open more coastlines and wildlife No: 28.4% refuges to oil and natural gas drilling. • Increased infrastructure spending may provide opportunities to fix local Initiative 1491 roads and bridges, including the 41 King County bridges considered func- Allows court-issued protection orders tem- tionally obsolete and 16 that are structurally deficient. porarily preventing access to firearms. Yes: 71.2% "A lot gets said in the heat of a very long campaign. If we are to take President- No: 28.8% elect Trump and the Republicans who control Congress at their word, there is reason to be concerned," Executive Constantine said. Initiative 732 We are an innovative, prosperous region that embraces pluralism and diversity. Places a tax on carbon, provides tax credit The next Congress and the White House need to know what’s at stake for our for low-income residents, reduces some region. Whatever happens in Washington, DC, our region will continue to move taxes. forward, and outward to the rest of the world, building a welcoming community, No: 58.5% a strong economy, and a healthy environment." Yes: 41.5%

The voice DECember 2016 7 – THE VOICE TrTranslationsanslations TRANSLATED ARTICLES FROM THE VOICE

Resultados de las elecciones generales de 2016/By Leahla Contreras Результаты всеобщих выборов 2016 г./ By Irina Vodonos

Presidente y vicepresidente Tesorero de estado На момент публикации были Donald Trump y Mike Pence (Republicanos) Duane Davidson (D): 58.66% объявлены нижеследующие результаты Финансовый управляющий штата Michael Waite (R): 41.34% голосования. Окончательные результаты Дуэйн Дэвидсон (д) 58,66% Gobernador станут известны 29 ноября, когда Майкл Уэйт (р) 41,34% Jay Inslee (Democrata): 56.3% Auditor de estado закончится процесс сертификации. Аудитор штата Bill Bryant (Republicano): 43.7% Pat McCarthy (D): 54.02% Пэт Маккарти (д) 54,02% Mark Miloscia (R): 45.98% Президент и вице-президент Марк Милосиа (р) 45,98% Senadores de los E.U. Дональд Трамп и Майк Пенс Patty Murray (D): 60.8% Fiscal general (республиканцы) Генеральный прокурор штата Chris Vance (R): 39.2% Bob Ferguson (D): 69.2% Joshua Trumbull (Libertario): 30.8% Боб Фергюсон (д) 69,2% Distrito electoral # 7 Губернатор Джошуа Трамбулл (либертарианец) Pramila Jayapal (D): 57.2% Comisario de terrenos públicos Джей Инсли (демократ) 56,3% 30,8% Brady Walkinshaw (D): 42.8% Hilary Franz (D): 54.89% Билл Брайант (республиканец) 43,7% Steve McLaughlin (R): 45.11% Управляющий общественными землями Teniente gobernador С е н а т о р Хилари Франц (д) 54,89% Cyrus Habib (D): 55.8% Superintendente de instrucción pública Патти Мюррей (д) 60,8% Стив Маклафлин (р) 45,11% Marty McClendon (R): 44.2% Chris Reykdal: 51.15% Крис Ванс (р) 39,2% Erin Jones: 48.85 Управляющий государственными Secretaria de estado Округ №7 (Палата представителей) школами Kim Wyman (R): 53.15% Comisario de seguro Tina Podlodowsi (D): 46.85% Mike Kreidler (D): 60.02% Прамила Джаяпал (д) 57,2% Крис Рейкдал 51,15% Richard Schrock (R): 39.98% Брэди Уокиншоу (д) 42,8% Эрин Джоунс 48,85%

Вице-губернатор Регулятор страховых компаний Сайрус Хабиб (д) 55,8% Майк Крайдлер (д) 60,02% ውጽኢት ናይ 2016 ሓፈሻዊ ምርጫ /By Habte Negash Марти Маклендон (р) 44,2% Ричард Шрок (р) 39,98%

ውጽኢት ምርጫ ምሉእ ብምሉእ ብወግዒ ዝጠቓለሉ Секретарь штата Вашингтон ዕለት ሕዳር 29 እዃ እንተኾነ፡ ክሳብ ሕጂ ረኪብናዮ ስተይት ትረጀረር Ким Уайман (р) 53,15% ብዘሎና ሓበሬት እቲ ውጽ ኢት ከምዚ ዚስዕብ እዩ፡፡ ዳነ ደቪድሰን (ዲሞክራት): 58.66% Тина Подлодовски (д) 46,85% ሚካኤል ወይተ (ሪፓብሊካን): 41.34% ናይ ፕረሲደንትን ም/ፕረሲደንትን ምርጫ 2016 የአጠቃላዩ የህዝብ ምርጫ ውጤት/By Assaye Abunie ዶናልድ ትራምን ማይክ ፐንስን (ሪፓብሊካን) ሰይት ኦዲተር የፕሬዜዳንትና ምክትል ፕሬዜዳንት ስቴት ገንዘብ ያዥ ፓት ኤምሲ ካርቲ (ዲሞክራት): 54.02% ዶናልድ ትራምፕ እና ማይክ ፔንስ ዱ ዋ ን ዴ ቪ ድ ሰ ን ( ደ ) : 5 8 . 6 6 % አመሓዳሪ ማርክ ሚሎሺያ (ርፓብሊካን): 45.98% (ሪፓፕሊካን) ማይ ክ ል ዌ ት (ሪ ) : 41. 3 4 % ጀይ ኢንስሊ (ዲሞክራት): 56.3% ቢል ብርየንት (ሪፓብሊካን): 43.7% አቶርኒኢ ጀነራል ( ናይ ሕጊ ኣማኻሪ) አገረ ገዥ ስቴት ኦዲተር ባብ ፈርጉሰን (ዲሞክራት): 69.2% ጄ እንስ ሊ (ደሞ ክ ራ ት) 5 6. 3% ፓ ት ማ ካ ር ቲ ( ደ ) : 5 4 . 0 2 % ቢ ል ብ ራ ያ ን ት ( ሪ ፓ ፕ ሊ ካ ን ) ማ ር ክ ሚ ሎ ሲ ያ ( ሪ ) : 4 5 . 9 8 % ናይ ዩናይትድ ስተይት ሰነተር ጃሽዋ ትራምቡል (ሊበራል): 30.8% 43.7% ፓቲ ሙሪ (ዲሞክራት): 60.8% ጠቅላላ ዐቃቤ ሕግ ክሪስ ቨንስ (ዲሞክራት): 39.2% ናይ መንግስቲ መሬት ኮሙሽነር የዩኤስ ሴኔት ቦ ብ ፈ ር ጉ ሰ ን ( ደ ) : 6 9 . 2 % ሂለሪ ፍራንዝ (ዲሞክራት): 54.89% ፓቲ መሪ (ደ) 6 0 . 8 % ጆ ሹ ዋ ት ሩ ም በ ል ( ሊ ብ ር ታ ሪ ያ ን ) : ኮንግረሽናል ዲስትሪክት 7 ስቲቨ ኤምላውሊን (ሪፓብሊካን): 45.11% ክ ሪ ስ ቫ ን ስ ( ሪ ) 3 9 . 2 % 30.8% ፕረሚላ ጃያፓል (ዲሞክራት): 57.2% ብረድይ ዎኪንሸው (ዲሞክራት) 42.8% አመሓዳሪ መንግስታዊ ኣብያተትምህርቲ ኮንግሬሽናል ዲስትሪክት 7 የህዝብ መሬት ኮሚሽነር ክሪስ ረይክዳል: 51.15% ፕራ ም ላ ጃ ያ ፓ ል ( ደ ) : 5 7. 2 % ሂ ላ ሪ ፍ ራ ን ዝ ( ደ ) : 5 4 . 8 9 % ሌተናንት ጋቨርነር (ተተካኢ አመሓዳሪ) አሪን ጃነስ : 48.85 ብ ራ ዲ ዋ ክ ን ሻ ው ( ደ ) : 4 2 . 8 % ስ ቲ ቭ ማልሂ ለን (ሪ): 4 5 .11% ሳይረስ ኣቢብ (ዲሞክራት): 55.8% ሊውትናንት አስተዳዳሪ የህዝብ መመሪያ ሱፐርእንቴንዳንት መርትይ ኤምሲ ክለንደን (ሪፓብሊካን) 44.2% ኮሙሽነር ናይ ኢንሹራንስ ሳ ይ ረ ስ ሃ ቢ ብ ( ደ ) : 5 5 . 8 % ክ ሪ ስ ሬ ዳ ል : 5 1 .1 5 % ማይክ ክሪድለር (ዲሞክራት): 60.02% ሜ ሪ ማክ ለንደን (ሪ): 4 4. 2% ኤ ረ ን ጆ ን ስ : 4 8 . 8 5 ናይ ስተይት ሰክረተሪ Rኢቻርድ ስኮርክ (ሪፓብሊካን): 39.98% ኪም ዊማን (ሪፓብሊካን): 53.15% ስቴት ጸሃፊ ኢንሹራንስ ኮሚሽነር ቲና ፖድሎዶውሲ (ዲሞክራት): 46.85% ኪ ም ዋ ይ ማ ን ( ሪ ) : 5 3 .1 5 % ማ ይ ክ ክ ሬ ድ ለ ር ( ደ ) : 6 0 . 0 2 % ቲ ና ፖዶዋ ስ ኪ ( ደ): 4 6 . 8 5 % ሪ ቻ ር ድ ሽ ሮ ክ (ሪ ) : 3 9 . 9 8 %

KẾT QUẢ CUỘC BẦU PHIẾU PHỔ THÔNG NĂM 2016/By Long Luu Chức vụ Tổng Thống và Phó Tổng Thống Ngân Khố Tiểu Bang Doorashada guudd ee 2016ka/By Mahamoud Gaayte Donald Trump and Mike Pence (đảng Duane Davidson (Dân Chủ): 58.66% Madaxweyne iyo Madaxweyne kuxigeen Xooghaya Maaliyadda Cộng Hỏa) Michael Waite (Cộng Hòa): 41.34% Donald Trump and Mike Pence (xisbiga Duane Davidson (D): 58.66% Jamhuuriga) Michael Waite (R): 41.34% Thống Đốc Thanh Tra Tiểu Bang Jay Inslee (Dân Chủ): 56.3% Pat McCarthy (Dân Chủ): 54.02% Gudoomiye Gobol Tafatiraha Gobolka Bill Bryant (Cộng Hòa): 43.7% Mark Miloscia (Cộng Hòa): 45.98% Jay Inslee (xisbiga diimuqraadiga): 56.3% Pat McCarthy (D): 54.02% Bill Bryant (Xisbiga Jamhuuriga): 43.7% Mark Miloscia (R): 45.98% Thượng Nghị Sĩ (Liên Bang) Bộ Tư Pháp cấp Tiểu Bang Xubnaha Aqalka Sare Qareenka Guud Patty Murray (Dân Chủ): 60.8% Bob Ferguson (Dân Chủ): 69.2% Patty Murray (D): 60.8% Bob Ferguson (D): 69.2% Chris Vance (Cộng Hỏa): 39.2% Joshua Trumbull (Libertarian): 30.8% Chris Vance (R): 39.2% Joshua Trumbull (Libertarian): 30.8% Dân Biểu Liên Bang- Quận 7 Điều Hành Ban Điền Địa Barlamaanka Degmada 7 Gudoomiyaha Dhulka guud Pramila Jayapal (Dân Chủ): 57.2% Hilary Franz (Dân Chủ): 54.89% Pramila Jayapal (D): 57.2% Hilary Franz (D): 54.89% Brady Walkinshaw (Dân Chủ): 42.8% Steve McLaughlin (Cộng Hòa): 45.11% Brady Walkinshaw (D): 42.8% Steve McLaughlin (R): 45.11% Phó Thống Đốc Bộ Giáo Dục (cấp Tiểu Bang) Lieutenant Governor Xeer ilaaliyaha guud Cyrus Habib (Dân Chủ): 55.8% Chris Reykdal: 51.15% Cyrus Habib (D): 55.8% Chris Reykdal: 51.15% Marty McClendon Cộng Hòa): 44.2% Erin Jones: 48.85 Marty McClendon (R): 44.2% Erin Jones: 48.85%

Tổng Thư Ký Vụ Bầu Cử Điều Hành Ngành Bảo Hiểm Wasiirka Arimaha dibada Gudoomiyaha Caymiska Kim Wyman (Cộng Hỏa): 53.15% Mike Kreidler (Dân Chủ): 60.02% Kim Wyman (R): 53.15% Mike Kreidler (D): 60.02% Tina Podlodowsi (Dân Chủ): 46.85% Richard Schrock (Cộng Hòa): 39.98% Tina Podlodowsi (D): 46.85% Richard Schrock (R): 39.98%

THE VOICE 8 – THE VOICE DECember 2016 OUR COMMUNITIES STORIES FROM OUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS Restoring Cheasty Greenspace, one plant at a time Rainer Vista's 42-acre urban sanctuary gets a boost from local volunteers

By Jeff Nachtigal Special to The Voice

It would have been so easy for everyone to just stay home. An unrelenting rain pounded down. Darkness would soon fall on this dreary November evening. A few people trickled in and reached for a cup of hot cocoa at the Seattle Com- munity Farm at the north end of Rainier Vista. Soon the group swelled to more than 60, homemade lanterns were lit, and sheet music was passed around for the annual Lantern Walk, a meandering stroll through Rainier Vista and the Hazelnut Loop trail in the Mountain View Park across the street. The walk was organized by the Friends of Cheasty Greenspace Mt. View (FC- GMV), a volunteer group that is helping restore the broad swath of green that blan- kets the east slope of Beacon Hill—and one day will become a giant backyard for Rainier Vista. "The point is to establish relationships within our greater community," said Su- san Zeman, a long-time forest steward in Cheasty who also teaches outdoor educa- Jack, age 6, helps plant new shrubs in the Cheasty Greenspace. At right, the invasive tion programs in the greenspace with the species of English ivy winds itself up a maple tree and eventually can suffocate the tree. Refugee Women’s Alliance (ReWA) sum- To prevent the tree from dying, volunteers make a growth ring by cutting the ivy from mer youth program. around the tree trunk, and pulling all roots out in a three-foot diameter around the tree. Strengthening relationships with people Photos by Jeff Nachtigal who live in Beacon Hill, Columbia City and Rainier Vista is what motivates Zeman to grape, ferns and Douglas fir trees. coordinate safety with the Seattle Police Vegetation was so dense that six-foot tall so the Lantern Walk can safely cross busy blackberry bushes covered an entire section South Columbian Way. of the forest floor, and was so thick that a And by introducing people to the trail discarded motorcycle lay hidden until vol- in Mt. View Park on a friendly neighbor- unteers began removing the invasive plant. hood walk, Zeman hopes more people More than 4,000 new native species have will connect with their neighbors, spend been planted in Cheasty Greenspace during time enjoying their urban woods, and join these past two years. the community of volunteers restoring the Now, after restoration, it’s possible to 42-acre Cheasty Greenspace. FCGMV will stand on a plateau with views of Lake host the next work party to begin at View Washington and Bellevue. Trails are slated Point Park in Rainier Vista at 10 a.m. on to run through this highest point of the park. Saturday, Jan. 21, 2017. Local advocates and opponents have The immediate goal for the FCGMV sparred over the merits of access and bike group is to reclaim what was once an trails in Cheasty Greenspace. But a final impenetrable thicket of blackberry in the decision may be close. greenspace, and build trails so people can The Seattle Parks and Recreation pilot access the park. project to build both pedestrian and moun- The trails would form a safe link be- tain bike trails in Cheasty Greenspace has tween Jefferson Park, Kimball Elementary been a lengthy process. After the Seattle and Mercer Middle School on Beacon Hill City Council approved a $100,000 Depart- with Rainier Vista, the light rail, and Co- Above, this section of the Cheasty Greenspace was used as a large homeless ment of Neighborhoods grant to build trails, encampment two years ago. Today more than 2,000 native trees and plants — each flag lumbia City in the Rainier Valley. the environmental review process began. The long-term vision of FCGMV is marks a plant — are growing in this area of restored forest. Below, Cheasty Greenspace Two main points of the plan remain under climbs up the side of Beacon Hill to the west of View Point Park in Rainier Vista. a healthy, restored Cheasty Greenspace review, including wetlands protection and with trails for pedestrians and mountain adequate 'fall line' space alongside the trails. bikes that creates a community hub where Ultimately the questions being answered commuters, pedestrians, bird watchers, about trails here will make the project environmental enthusiasts, and kids learn- stronger, said Joel DeJong, who along with ing to ride mountain bikes cross paths in his wife, Mary, were among the first neigh- a big, urban forest surrounded by much bors to pull weeds and haul garbage out of construction. the Cheasty Greenspace at Mt. View Park "Rainier Vista’s Home Owner's Asso- nearly a decade ago. ciation is very much in favor of plans for “We’re completely in favor of an envi- developing Cheasty," said Kerry Coughlin, ronmental review of the trail project,” said director of communications for Seattle DeJong. “After all, that’s exactly what this Housing Authority. is all about: environmental and community For the past two years, volunteers have work.” focused on specific locations within the For her part, Zeman thinks that staging Cheasty Greenspace. Hundreds of volun- Cheasty work parties at View Point Park teers have logged thousands of hours re- gives a big boost to restoring the woods, moving trash, pulling invasive Himalayan and building community ties. blackberry and English ivy, and planting thousands of native plants like Oregon

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