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August 2013 Articles translated into six languages

The newspaperTheThe of Neighborhood House VoiceVoice — visit our website at www.voicenewspaper.org Personal reflections on the Primary election set for Aug. 6 Loaded field for month of Ramadan mayor tops the ballot; city, Around the world, Muslims are observing the holy month of county council spots also Ramadan. These are the stories of just a few of them. contested By Tyler Roush reflections of the month of Ramadan, its By Tyler Roush The Voice editor meaning and its significance in their lives. The Voice editor

The holy month of Ramadan, the ninth Malyun Yusuf Voters in King County have until Aug. includes incumbent Richard Conlin and month of the Islamic calendar, is observed A refugee from Somalia who came to 6 to cast their ballots in this month’s pri- challengers Brian Carver and Kshama by Muslims worldwide as a period of fast- the as a girl, Malyun Yusuf mary election. Sawant. The Position No. 8 primary ing, charity and personal reflection. The lives in Seattle with her husband and their The race for Seattle mayor is a highlight includes incumbent Mike O’Brien and month is observed as the month that the two children. She is a Neighborhood House of the ballot. Nine candidates are vying for challengers David Ishii and Albert Shen. Prophet Muhammad received the revela- employee. the top job in the City of Seattle; the top In county races, the King County Ex- tions of the Quran. Ramadan begins with two vote-getters in the Aug. 6 primary will ecutive primary includes incumbent Dow the first sighting of the crescent moon and advance to November’s general election. Constantine and challengers Goodspace- continues for 29 or 30 days. At its conclu- The field includes incumbent mayor guy, Alan Lodbell and Everett Stewart. sion is the holiday Eid al-Fitr, a feast day cel- Mike McGinn and eight challengers. They King County Council Position No. 1 ebrating the breaking of the Ramadan fast. are: Joey Gray, environmental activist features incumbent Rod Dembowski, who During Ramadan, Muslims do not eat or and librarian; Bruce Harrell, Seattle City replaced Bob Ferguson when the latter drink from sunrise to sunset. After sunset, Councilmember; Kate Martin, neighbor- was elected state attorney general; and they break their fast with iftar, an evening hood activist and designer; Mary Martin, challengers John Fray and Naomi Wilson. meal that is often taken together as a fam- working class activist and factory worker; In King County Council Position No. 9, ily or with a larger community. Fasting is Doug McQuaid, West Seattle attorney; incumbent Reagan Dunn faces challengers obligatory for Muslims during Ramadan, Ed Murray, state senator, 43rd Legislative Kristina Macomber and Shari Song. although children, pregnant women, those District; Charlie Staadecker, real estate Elsewhere in King County, three can- who are ill and those who are traveling are Malyun Yusuf broker and former Vashon Island School didates will vie to be the next mayor of not required to do so. Board member; and Peter Steinbrueck, Auburn. Those candidates include Auburn Ramadan began on Tuesday, July 9 and is architect and former Seattle City Coun- Deputy Mayor and City Councilmember expected to end Thursday, Aug. 8. During “Ramadan is a month of forgiveness; a cilmember. Nancy Backus, Auburn City Councilmem- this month, The Voice spoke with several month of reflection; a month to do char- Primary races are also set for two Se- ber John Partridge and U.S. Army veteran people locally who are observing Ramadan. attle City Council positions, Nos. 2 and 8. What follows are their personal stories and Please see “Ramadan” on Page 2 The Council Position No. 2 primary Please see “Primary” on Page 3 Remembering Terry McLlarky, King County Housing resident, commissioner

By King County Housing Authority staff Hampshire College, now called Southern New Hampshire University. King County Housing Authority commissioner Terry County Executive Dow Constantine appointed McLlarky McLlarky died July 6 at the Redmond Care and Rehabilita- to KCHA’s Board of Commissioners in 2010. McLlarky tion Center. He was 76. also served as a member of KCHA’s Resident Advisory For the past decade, McLlarky was a resident and the Committee since 2005. Both roles enabled McLlarky to key keeper of Casa Juanita, an 80-unit public housing help guide the Authority’s programs and policies. complex for seniors and persons with disabilities located “Terry stood out for his intelligence, humor, commitment in Kirkland, Wash. McLlarky moved to Kirkland in 2003 and compassion,” said KCHA Executive Director Stephen to live closer to his daughter Jennifer Wittenberg and her Norman. “He believed that without public housing, many family. From 1995-2002, McLlarky was active as a civic senior citizens who depend on small fixed incomes from volunteer in the Town of Hudson, N.H., where he served on Social Security would be living on the street, and was proud the sewer utility, conservation and budget committees. He of the role he played in ensuring that they could live out retired from careers in material control and management their lives in dignity. Terry McLlarky, May 13, 1937 – July 6, 2013. Terry is information systems. McLlarky received a bachelor’s de- seen here with Murphy, his daughter’s English bulldog gree in computer science, graduating cum laude from New Please see “McLlarky” on Page 2 and one of his favorite companions.

Neighborhood House Nonprofit org. In this issue Jesse Epstein Building U.S. postage PAID 905 Spruce Street Seattle, WA Be Safe Page 3 Seattle, WA 98104 Permit #8887 911 information Health Notes Page 3 the delicious joys of a vegetarian diet Public Transit Page 3 forum sheds light on transit usage for persons with disabilities Translations Page 4 2 – local and national news AUGUST 2013

Kharhash says that the purpose of Ra- Muslims all join in observing a period of For Hamam and her family, Ramadan is a Ramadan madan is one of humility, “to know what it heightened spiritual awareness. time of prayer and a time to read the Quran. Continued from Page 1 is like when you don’t have food, or when “Ramadan is not only an important time During the course of the month, Hamam ity; a month of remembrance … of what you were poor.” for me, but for a billion people around the says she will read each of the 30 ajiza, or you have,” Yusuf said. It’s also a time of charity and of help- world,” he says. sections, of the Quran. During Ramadan, It’s an important reminder, Yusuf said, ing those who are in need. Kharhash says Like other families, Mohamed takes iftar it’s a common practice to read and study that in some parts of the world people have he often sends extra money to family in each night following the evening prayers. In the book in its entirety. no choice but to fast. Afghanistan who are in need. He also de- that evening meal, Mohamed says he sees Of course, it is also a time to fast. “In other countries, some people are not scribes a small gift of wheat or money to be what might be one of the few differences “We don’t eat from dawn until sunset, able to break their fast — they are fasting given to the poor by the end of Ramadan. between the way in which Ramadan is ob- so of course you feel hungry, and thirsty,” constantly,” she said. The couple’s children do not yet fast dur- served by those one billion people around she says. Each year, she looks forward to observ- ing Ramadan, but Kharhash says they read the world. But those feelings have a powerful ef- ing the monthlong fast. and study the Quran with them each day. In “I think the only difference would be the fect, she notes. “Most Muslim people are excited about that way, they learn more about Islam and food that you eat when you’re done fasting,” “To feel hunger, that’s what every poor the month of Ramadan,” Yusuf said. “It’s the holy month of Ramadan, Kharhash says. Mohamed says. person feels. It helps me to sympathize with for a good cause and a good reason — it’s Despite the demonstrations of charity As a boy, Mohamed recalls competing other people,” she says. your duty as a Muslim to be fasting.” and humility throughout the month of Ra- with other youth his age to see who could Fasting is also a way of observing self- The month is also a time to gather with madan, Kharhash laments that the religion fast for the longest or for the most days. control and of limiting one’s desires. family. For Yusuf, that means her husband has been distorted and blamed for violence (Though children aren’t required to fast, “(It) prevents us from committing any- and two children, ages 2 and 3. Yusuf’s chil- committed by terrorists. He looks to his many will try for a certain period of time thing unlawful, both during and after fast- dren are too young to practice the daily fast home country of Afghanistan, where the during Ramadan, Mohamed says.) He also ing,” she says. and don’t yet understand the full meaning Taliban, citing Islamic law, prohibit girls looked forward to Eid al-Fitr, the feast The daily fast also builds community of Ramadan. But they’re learning through from going to school. He calls such claims day and celebration that marks the end of among Muslims around the world, as to- the nightly practice of iftar, the meal that “nonsense.” Ramadan. gether the community strives to feel closer breaks the daily fast. “Our prophet says that acquiring knowl- With age, Mohamed says his connection to God. “It’s a celebration at the end of the day — edge is a requirement from God,” Kharhash to Ramadan has deepened. “It gets us closer to each other and to they know it’s a time to eat, that it’s fun, and says — for both men and women. “It is “As I age, Ramadan resonates more Allah,” she says. that we all sit down as a family,” Yusuf said. not haram (forbidden) to study science, to and more,” says Mohamed, 24. “The ideas But her voice is heavy with sadness as For Yusuf and her family, their iftar con- study anatomy, to go to school and become of fasting, of being more in tune with my she describes how acts of terror have seem- sists of many traditional Somali foods, such an engineer.” spiritual side, empathizing with those less ingly tarnished her religion. as sambusas, a type of savory fried pastry; He concludes that there’s no justification fortunate, have grown closer to me.” “They do all those wrong things in the jabati and malawa, both types of flatbread; for acts of terror. name of this religion,” she begins. “I don’t meat and rice dishes, fruits and vegetables “Islam is a religion of peace, a religion Monia Hamam understand it — it’s just wrong.” and pasta. As the first meal after as many of friendship,” Kharhash says. Monia Hamam, the third of four girls Still, Islam is a source of great love for as 18 hours of fasting, it’s typically a heavy in her family, is a junior at the University Hamam, who describes feeling a different meal. (A lighter meal, known as “suhoor,” Abdul Mohamed of . Her family has lived in atmosphere during the month of Ramadan. is often taken before dawn each day.) For Abdul Mohamed, empathy is an the United States since 2007, when they That feeling is especially profound on the Yusuf, who prepares many of the dishes important element of the observance of emigrated from Iraq. The family all earned night of Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of from scratch, said she takes pride in provid- Ramadan. their U.S. citizenship in November of 2012. Decree. It is the night that the Quran is ing a substantial meal for her family. said to have been revealed — a night, as “It makes me feel good when there is a written in the Quran, that is better than one lot of food on the table,” Yusuf said. thousand months. Eid al-Fatr, the holiday that marks the As Hamam describes it, the night brings conclusion of Ramadan, is a time of com- a profound sense of peace and calm. Ani- munity and celebration, Yusuf said. mals are quiet, the air is cool and still, and “It’s great to see a whole community cel- all around there is a serenity to the evening. ebrating,” Yusuf said. “It’s a great reminder She says she likes to pass the night in prayer of where you’re from, and for reminiscing in her family’s backyard. with family back home.” “The night is so beautiful,” Hamam says. “It’s really the most beautiful night of the Waheedullah Kharhash entire year.” A father to four boys, Waheedullah Kharhash, his wife and family live in Kent, Abdul Mohamed Monia Hamam after having immigrated to the United States in 2009. Kharhash had previously “Fasting is a means to empathize with served as an interpreter for U.S. forces in those less fortunate,” says Mohamed, a Afghanistan for five years. But after threats Neighborhood House employee. “It’s a very conscientious,” said Workman. “If McLlarky one of the residents hadn’t been seen for were made on his life, Kharhash, his wife time for me to reflect on and be in tune Continued from Page 1 Shaima and two oldest boys, now ages 9 and with the countless bounty with which I’m a day or two, he would always look in on 7, left for the U.S. The couple’s twin sons, presented.” them to make sure they were all right. But “He was so passionate about the mis- he also had a good sense of humor and age 2, were born here. Mohamed says his upbringing has led sion of the Authority that despite his in- him to want to seek out diversity — of related well to everyone in the building. creasing frailty he actively continued his He loved to read, watch Shark Tank and Somali descent, he was born in Saudi Ara- work with both the Board and the RAC bia and has close ties with aunts from the NASCAR races on TV, and play dominoes right up until the end.” and cards with his friends.” Philippines and India. McLlarky was a very visible presence As such, he likes to visit different Petr Grinberg, another Casa Juanita at Casa Juanita. He could be found play- resident and fellow dominoes player, de- mosques during Ramadan. Though they ing dominoes as part of a foursome in the represent different cultural and ethnic scribed McLlarky as “a very nice friend. community room almost every evening. If I ever needed anything, he would always groups — as an example, he said he in- Until he was weakened by his illnesses, tended to visit a Bosnian mosque on an help me.” McLlarky also enjoyed working in his “Terry brought valuable perspective upcoming weekend — they’re united by a garden plot — a flower lover, he was es- common religion. and insights on what it meant to be a pecially enamored of roses — and taking KCHA resident to our meetings,” said Mohamed sees a unifying quality to the morning walks on the trail in the wetland Waheedullah Kharhash and family practice of Ramadan, in which the world’s KCHA Board Chair Doug Barnes. “He behind his complex. Fellow residents kept us focused on the very real human describe him as unfailingly pleasant, impacts of what the Authority does. His The Voice friendly and helpful. wit, wisdom and compassion will be very Editor Reporters Casa Juanita resident Carol Workman much missed.” Tyler Roush Jim Bush remembers McLlarky for his wonderful McLlarky is survived by his sister, four 206-461-8430, ext. 227 Sarah Lober sense of humor, his sense of responsibility, [email protected] Adriane Vetter daughters, seven grandchildren and nine and his varied interests. great-grandchildren. “As key keeper of the building, he was

The Voice, the newspaper of Neighborhood House, is published monthly with the support of Seattle Housing Authority and the King County Housing Authority. Neighborhood House helps diverse communities of people with limited resources attain their goals for self-sufficiency, fi- nancial independence and community building. The Voice contributes to that mission by provid- ing low-income people, immigrants, refugees and other concerned parties with timely, relevant news. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the staff, Neighborhood House, SHA or KCHA. We welcome articles and tips from the community and reserve the right to edit all submissions. The Voice is published online at www.nhwa.org and at www.seattlehousing.org. Please recycle me

The voice AUGUST 2013 Local and national news – 3 Beyond the obvious, Health Notes Be safe some benefits to A column devoted to your well-being calling 911 Whether for medical or health and By Kelly McKinney became clear that the same people were Seattle Neighborhood Group responsible for all of these burglaries. The wellness reasons, eating a mostly police used the information to determine a Before I wrap up the Be Safe Column pattern of where the burglars would strike vegetarian diet doesn’t have to be bland series on calling 911, there are a just few and whom they were targeting. By Adriane Vetter and fresh dill or oregano, depending on the more points to remember. The police were then able to catch Special to The Voice type of flavor you want for your veggies. • Seattle residents who do not speak the suspects, by assigning officers in the Just sautee then steam in a mixture of English well can access interpretation vicinity of where the burglars were likely Some say that the reason a lot of folks can’t water and a little coconut milk or half a cup services. As soon as the 911 operator to strike next. stick to a vegetarian or vegan diet is often of apple cider or citrus vinegar. Curry to answers the phone, the caller should state Police also use information from 911 due to the fact that many people don’t want taste and a bit of coconut flakes will give the language that they speak before they calls and police reports to assign officers to give up bacon. your dish an exotic and healthier quality say anything. The caller should keep and resources to areas that are experienc- I can tell you that yes, having had to and taste. repeating the language needed for inter- ing high crime. This process is called Hot change to a mostly vegetarian diet recently Don’t be afraid to experiment with pretation until he or she is connected with Spot Policing. for medical reasons, the thing I do miss the sauces (many healthy varieties can be an interpreter. I hope this series of articles on 911 most is bacon. bought in local grocery stores) like peanut • If a caller does not want the respond- have been helpful in increasing your It’s certainly something I’m adding back sauce, tahini or any kind of curry sauce. ing Seattle Police Department officer to understanding of how 911 works. If you in, when my body heals itself enough to be Just limit the salt and hot peppers, if high know who is calling, he or she can request are interested in learning more about 911 allowed meat again. blood pressure or stomach distresses are to be anonymous. The 911 operator will or other safety issues, Seattle Neighbor- All of the above being said, I also have something you need to be aware of. still have the caller’s contact information. hood Group provides crime prevention to add that eating a mostly veggie diet has You can also add chopped avocado to just • A caller can indicate to the 911 op- workshops on calling 911, Personal Safety, not been awful. It’s all in knowing how to about any veggie mixture, maybe with some erator that he or she does not want to be ID theft and Fraud, and How to be an Ef- combine different types and textures of veg- roma tomatoes and olives. Or, put together contacted by an officer. fective Witness of Ongoing Crime. etables in delicious combinations, that can chopped and diced potatoes, onions, about a The benefits of calling 911 do not end SNG also provides materials translated make a mostly, or all vegetarian diet both tablespoon of diced garlic, dill, and peppers, with a police response. into many of the common languages good for you, and yummy at the same time. along with a nice wheat-free bread to make Police use the information gathered found in Seattle Housing communities. In fact, after the first couple of days of for a filling and delicious dinner. from 911 calls and police reports to help Just a quick reminder: Night Out eliminating most of the meat (I can still A simple multi-grain bread slice (toasted officers solve an ongoing crime wave, Against Crime will be Aug. 6. The Pre- occasionally have meat, just not in the or not), with almond, sunflower or peanut such as a series of burglaries that look cinct picnics for South and Southwest amounts I was eating on the Paleo eating butter makes a good vegetarian breakfast, like the same person committed the crime. Precincts will be held on Aug. 17. The plan), wasn’t as bad as I’d thought it would with or without jam. So you can see how This process is called crime analysis. South precinct will be held at the precinct be. being a vegetarian, eating more fruits and Shortly before Rainier Vista was rede- from 1 to 4 p.m. The Southwest Precinct My go-to veggie dish? A mixture of baby veggies can not only help you with things veloped, the community was hit with a picnic will be at the Delridge Community bok choi (available at both local farmer’s like losing weight, but it can also turn you series of burglaries. The method of entry Center along with Delridge and will run markets and super markets), diced onions into a food adventurer, too. was the same in all of the burglaries. It from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (use any kind you prefer), squash or carrots,

levies, and would be funded via an addi- your ballot in the mail. If you are registered drop boxes located around Seattle and King Primary tional property tax of $0.1877 per $1,000 of but didn’t receive a ballot, contact King County. To find the ballot drop box nearest Continued from Page 1 assessed value. County Elections at 206-296-VOTE (TTY: you, visit www.kingcounty.gov/elections and veterans advocate Scot Pondelick. The Voice makes no endorsements in Relay: 711) as soon as possible. and select “How to Vote in King County,” Auburn Mayor Pete Lewis is stepping these or any other races but encourages To cast your vote, simply fill out your bal- or call the King County Elections office for down after four terms as mayor. eligible voters to cast their ballots and par- lot, follow the instructions on the envelope more information. There is one ballot measure appearing on ticipate in the August primary election. — Don’t forget to sign your ballot! — and The King County Elections website ballots in King County. Proposition No. 1, mail it using a first-class stamp. In order to includes more information, including the the parks levy, would provide funding for How to vote be accepted, ballots must be postmarked full voters’ pamphlet and a complete list parks, trails, recreational facilities and open Elections in King County (and the rest by Aug. 6. of candidates and measures appearing on space in the King County Parks system. of Washington state) are by mail. If you are Want to save a stamp? You can also the ballot. The five-year levy replaces two expiring registered to vote, you should have received return your ballot at a number of ballot

Forum sheds light on public transit access for persons with disabilities New online resource on By J M (Jim) Bush need to be. mented about the fact that tie-down spaces disability programs and Center Park Resident • Size and orientation of bus shelters: have not been quickly made available upon services Some people have commented that the request, even though Federal Transit Ad- In many cases, public transit is seen as openings in some shelters do not face the ministrations regulations require it. There is a new online portal full of being very easy for people with disabilities street. • Mobility-device restraint systems: A useful resources on disability programs to use for their daily travels. The Seattle number of issues were raised here, espe- and services in each community at www. Disability Commission recently hosted a Getting on the bus, van or train cially with the restraints used on some disability.gov. A portal is almost like a forum to discuss how persons with dis- • Lifts and boarding ramps: Many lift vehicles. Details are in the full document. Table of Contents or Index that redirects abilities use public transit, and to identify or ramp users provided extensive comment • Driver awareness and training: Again, you to specific webpages based on your where improvements can be made. on this subject. a number of issues were raised. Details are search criteria. This is a very simple The following were mentioned as key • Steepness of stairs in the bus: Some in the full document. website to navigate which provides issues that need to be addressed to make walking passengers have commented on information on various helpful topics, transit more user-friendly for people with how steep they are, unaware they may Rider information and trip planning such as: Social Security Benefits, Civil disabilities. For the full summary docu- request the lift be deployed for them. • Access to rider information: In most Rights, Community Life, Education, ment, contact Jim Bush at jbwa2@yahoo. • Steepness of boarding ramps: Many cases, this has not been a problem. Details Emergency Preparedness, Employ- com. wheelchair and walker users have com- on the problems that did come up are in the ment Opportunities, Health Services, mented on how steep the current boarding full document available from the author. Affordable Housing, Technology, and Getting to public transit service ramps are. METRO is looking into this. • Accuracy of information provided: A Transportation. In many cases, there are no serious • Turning space inside the bus, van or number of people commented on the fact One of the most unique features that problems with bus zones and LINK plat- train: Many wheelchair users have com- that they received conflicting, inaccurate it offers is a way to narrow the search forms. However, the following should be mented on this. or no information from the various sources results based on audience (caregiver, mentioned for people with limited mobility. • Space inside vehicles: This subject they use to get transit information. guardian, person living with a disability, • Distance to bus stops or LINK stations: drew a few comments, which are included • Understanding the information re- etc.), type of disability (blind, develop- Some passengers think bus stops are too far in the full document. ceived: People have commented on how mental, physical, etc.) and your state. apart for easy usage. • Elevators in downtown tunnel and difficult it can be to understand the infor- At the top of the left corner, there is • Bus stops having enough room for lift LINK stations: For the most part this has mation they have received. a “How to Use This Site” section that or ramp usage: Most bus stops are quite us- not been a problem; however, some issues • Trip planning and scheduling via AC- offers more detailed instructions. This able, but there some that could be improved. have been brought up and are described in CESS: A number of people commented on website was created and is updated by • Accessibility of bus zones and LINK the full document. how difficult the scheduling process is for the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Stations: Most bus stops are properly • Accommodating mobility device users: ACCESS and are asking METRO to take Disability Employment Policy (ODEP). identified for lift or ramp usage; others A number of wheelchair users have com- steps to simplify the process.

The voice 4 – local and national news august 2013 TranslaTranslattionsions TRANSLATED ARTICLES FROM THE VOICE

ተጠቀምቲ ናይ ፉድ ኣሲስታንስ ካርድ 7 ናይ ስያትል ፋርመርስ ማርከት ተመሳሳሊ ፕሮግራም This summer and fall, EBT users ቦታዎች አድርጓል፡፡ በመጀመሪያው ሳምንት ውስጥ (EBT) ኣብ ወርሓት ሳመርስ ፎልን ኣብ ጀሚሩ ነይሩ እዩ፡፡ ኣብቲ እዋን እቲ፡ ምዝገባ ናይቶመ can double their dollars at Seattle የ EBT ተመዝጋቢዎች 150 ፕርሰንት ከፍ ሲል ሲያትል ፋርመርስ ማርከት ገንዘቦም ዕጽፊ ብካርድ ናይ ፉድ ኣሲስታንስ (EBT) ዝጥቀሙ farmers markets የአካባቢው አራሾች ገቢያቸው $70,000 ከፍ ኪገብርዎ ይኽእል እዮም ሰባት ናብ 150 ፐርሰንት ሓፍ ኢሉ፡ እቶት በዚህ ሳመርና ፎል ወራት የ EBT ተጠቃሚዎች ማለቱን አይተዋል፡፡ በአጠቃላይ ይህ የፓይለት በሲያትል ፋርመርስ ማርኬት ገንዘባቸውን እጥፍ ፕሮግራም ከሲያትል ከተማ የስቴኔቢሊቲና ካርድ ናይ ፉድ ኣሲስታንስ (EBT) ተጠቕሙ ናይ ፋርመርስ ማርኬት ከኣ ብ70,000 ዶላር ድርብ ሊያደርጉ ይችላሉ፡፡ እንቫሮንመንት ቢሮ እንደገለፀው $125,000 ወሲኹ፡፡ ብመሰረት ጸብጻብ ምምሕዳር ከተማ ኣብ ሲያትል ፋርመርስ ማርከት ንዝዕድግ ሰብ የሲያትል ከተማ ለ ተጠቃሚዎች ስያትል፡ እቲ ፕሮግራም ኣብ ሓፈሻዊ ቁጠባ EBT ለአካባቢው ኢኮኖሚ እርዳታ አስገኝቷል፡፡ ክሳብ 10 ዶላር ዝበጽሕ ሓገዝ ከምዝግበረሉ Fresh Bucks ስለተባለው የፓፕሊክ ፕሮግራም በዚህ ዓመት ጁን ወር የሲያትል ከተማ ኳንስል ናይ 125,000 ዶላር ጽልው ከም ዝነበሮ ንምግላጽ ምምሕዳር ከትማ ስያትል ናይ እስከ $10 ብር ድረስ ለሲያትል ፋርመርስ ማርኬት $50,000 ተጨማሪ በጀት የወሰነ ሲሆን ይህም

ቁርሲ ኣኼባ ክገብርዩ፡፡ ካብ ሕጂ ክሳብ ተፈሊጡ ኣሎ፡፡ ተጠቃሚዎች ስለሚሰጠው የሚጀምርበትን ቀን በግል እርዳታ የሚረዳውን Fresh Bucks ኣብ ወርሒ ሰነ ናይዚ ዓመት እዚ ምምሓድር 31 ጥቅምቲ ኣብ ዘሎ እዋን ተጠቀምቲ ናይ ፉድ በመመዘጋጀት ላይ ይገኛል፡፡ ካሁን ጀምሮ እስከ ፕሮግራም በማንኛውም የሲያትል ፋርመርስ ከተማ ስያትል ነዚ ፕሮግራም እዚ ንምዕዋት፡ ምሽት

ኣሲስታንስ ካርድ (EBT) ኣብ 17 ናይ ስያትል ካብ ገበርቲ ሰናይ ዝዋጻእ ገንዘብ ተደሚሩ ነቶም October 31 ድረስ በሲያትል ውስጥ ለሚገኙ ማርኬት በማስፋፋት እንደገና ይጀምራል፡፡ 10 EBT ተጠቃሚዎች በ17 የፋርመርስ ማርኬትና ስለምግብ የሚናገሩ ገለሰቦች ብዙ የዝቅተኛ ፋርፈርስ ማርከት ከይዶም ንዝገዝእዎ ናይ ኣብ ስያትል ፋርመርስ ማርኬት ብEBT ካርድ የገበያ ቦታዎች እያንዳንዱ የ EBT ተጠቃሚ $10 ገብያ ያላቸው ቤተሰቦች በዚህ ፕሮግራም ዶላር ወጻኢ መመላእታ ዝኸውን ኣብ ነፍሲ ዝዕድጉ ትሑት ኣታዊ ዘለዎም ቤተሰብ ሓገዝ ወከፍ ክዕድጉ ዝከድሉ ግዜ ናይ 10 ዶላር ብር የሚያወጣ ከሆነ እስከ $10 ተጨማሪ ገንዘብ እንደሚመዘገቡና ለአካባቢው ገበሬዎችና ዝኸውን 50.000.= ዶላር ክህብ ወሲኑ ይሰጠዋል፡፡ የፋርመርስ ማርኬት ተጨማሪ ገቢ እንደሚያስገኝ መመላእታ ሓገዝ ክውሃቦም እዩ፡፡ ኣሎ፡፡ እት ሓገዝ ኣብ ስያትል ኣብ ዝርከባ ኢማ ፍሪማን ዝተባህለ ተጠቃሚ ካርድ ናይ ፎድ የ EBT አዛውንት የሆኑት ኢማ ፍሪማን ይናገራሉ፡፡ ፋርመርስ ማርኬት ኩላተን ክውሃብ እዩ፡ የተባሉት “ለዝቅተኛ ገቢ ላላቸው ይህ ተጨማሪ ኣሲስታንስ (EBT) “ እዚ ትሑት ኣታዊ ንዘለዎ ይህ ፕሮግራም የሚሰጠው በሲያትል ከተማ ፡ ስለዝ ኽትዕድጉ ናብ ፋርመርስ ማርኬት $10 ብር በጣም ትልቅ ነገር ነው”” “ ማንኛውም ውስጥ በማንኛውም የፋርመርስ ማርኬት ቦታዎች ሰብ ዝውሃብ 10 ዶላር ንነዊሕ ግዜ ቀጻሊ ኪኸውን እዩ፡፡ ነፍሲ ወከፍ ቤተሰብ ንጥዕና ሓጋዚ ዝኾነ ክትከዱ ከለኹም ካርድ ናይ ፉድ ኣሲስታንስ ቤተሰብ ጤናማ ምግብ ያስፈልገዋል” በማለት ነው፡፡ የ EBT ካርድዎን ለገብያ ሲወጡ ይዘው መግቢ ንምርካብ ዕድል ክውሃቦ ይግባእ እዩ ኢሉ” ፡፡ (EBT) ሒዝኹም ምኻድ ኣይትረስዑ፡፡ ተናግረዋል፡፡ ይምጡ፡፡ ኣብ 2012 ዓ.ም. ምምሕዳር ከተማ ስያትል ኣብ በ2012 የሲያትል ከተማ ስለ Fresh Bucks ፕሮግራም በሰባት የሲያትል ፋርመርስ ማርኬት

This summer and fall, EBT users… рынках. Подписка на программу Este verano y otoño, los usuarios de prueba el programa “Fresh Bucks” en siete Летом и осенью этого года владельцы увеличилась на 150 процентов за EBT pueden duplicar su dinero en los tianguis de agricultores. Inscripción para карточки ЕВТ могут вдвое увеличить первую неделю, в то время, как доход tianguis de agricultores de Seattle EBT aumento150% en su primera semana, покупки на фармерских рынках Сиэтла фермеров увеличился на $70000. В El Gobierno de Seattle está celebrando mientras que los agricultores locales без дополнительной затраты денег. общем начальная программа принесла el lanzamiento del inicio de “Fresh Bucks” vieron un incremento en sus ingresos Городское управление Сиэтла общего дохода на $125000, по сведениям o Billetes Frescos, un programa público de $70,000. En general, el programa устраивает ланч в ознаменование отдела Sustainability and Environment para usuarios de EBT que ofrece bonos piloto tuvo un impacto económico total начала программы Fresh Bucks, которая города Сиэтла. de hasta $10 para gastar en los tianguis de $125,000, de acuerdo con la Oficina del обеспечивает за каждую покупку В июне этого года городской совет de agricultores de Seattle, en cada visita. Medio Ambiente del Gobierno de Seattle. до $10 эквивалентную покупку для утвердил $50000 дополнительного Estos bonos tienen un valor máximo de Gracias al éxito del programa, en junio владельцев карточек ЕВТ. Теперь до бюджета, которые вместе с индиви- $10 y se pueden usar en cada visita cuando de este año, el Consejo Municipal de Seat- compre con EBT. O sea que si el total de tle aprobó $ 50,000 en el presupuesto, que 31 октября пользователи карточек ЕВТ дуальными пожертвованиями снова su compra es $20, se paga $10 con EBT y junto con donativos privados se destinaron будут получать вознаграждение за профинансируют программу Fresh $10 con los bonos “Fresh Bucks”. para financiar el programa “Fresh Bucks” покупки на фермерских рынках или в Bucks, позволяя ей распространиться Desde ahora hasta el 31 de octubre, los de nuevo, lo que permite que se expanda киосках – за каждые $10 с карточки - на все фермеские рынки города Сиэтла. usuarios de EBT recibirán bonos de hasta el programa a los diecisiete tianguis de $10 в подарок за каждый визит. Пропагандисты питания ожидают, что $10 por cada $10 en EBT que gasten, cada Seattle. Activistas de la alimentación “Для людей с низким доходом всё больше и больше людей с низким vez que visite uno de los 17 tianguis de sana esperan que más y más familias de дополнительные $10 значат много,- доходом подпишутся на программу и agricultores o puestos de frutas y verduras bajos ingresos se inscriban y usen este сказала Эмма Фриман, пожилая жен- увеличат доходы местных фермеров и en Seattle. “Para una persona de bajos programa y que se van a generar más щина, имеющая ЕВТ, -каждая семья фермерских рынков. ingresos, los 10 dólares extras sirven de ingresos para los agricultores locales y должна иметь доступ к здоровой Программа предлагается на всех mucho” dijo Emma Freeman, una abuelita los tianguis. пище.” фермерских рынках города Сиэтла. en el programa de EBT, “todas las familias El programa se ofrece en todos los В 2012 году Сиэтл начал программу Приносите с собой карточку ЕВТ, когда necesitan acceso a una alimentación sa- tianguis de agricultores en la ciudad de Fresh Bucks на семи фермерских пойдёте за покупками. ludable.” Seattle. Traiga su tarjeta de EBT con usted En 2012, el gobierno de Seattle puso a cuando vaya a comprar.

TRONG MÙA HÈ VÀ MÙA THU NÀY, NGƯỜI DÙNG THẺ EBT CÓ THỂ LÀM TĂNG GẤP ĐÔI SỐ TIỀN TẠI CÁC CHỢ NÔNG SẢN TRONG SEATTLE Thành phố Seattle đang đưa ra thông báo bắt đầu chương trình Fresh Bucks- Tiền Tươi, chuơng trình công cộng cung cấp $10 cho người dùng thẻ EBT ở các chợ Nông sản. Kể từ đây cho đến 31 tháng 10, người dùng thẻ EBT ở 17 chợ Nông sản Seattle hay ở các quầy bán nông sàn sẻ nhận được phụ trội thêm là $10 nếu họ xài ra $10 cho mỗi lần đi chợ. “Đối với người có lợi tức thấp, thì có thêm $10 giúp được nhiều hơn nữa” bà Emma Freeman đã nói như thế, bà là người cao niên đang hưởng trở cấp thực phẩm EBT, “Mọi gia đình cần tiếp thụ thực phẩm lành mạnh”. Năm 2012, thành phố Seattle đã thử nghiệm chương trình Fresh Bucks đến 7 chợ Nông sản. Số người tham dự tăng 150 phần trăm trong tuần lễ đầu, và các nông dân nhìn nhận lợi tức thu vào tăng lên $70,000. Tổng kết là chương trình thủ nghiệm đã có hiệu quả kinh tế với tổng số là $125,000 dựa vào văn phòng Môi Sinh và Sinh Tồn thuộc thành phố Seattle. Trong tháng 6 năm này, Hội đồng Thành Phố đã chấp thuận chi số tiền $50,000 trong ngân sách phụ trội, cộng vào những ngân khỏan hiến tặng từ tư nhân, sẽ tài trợ cho chương trình Fresh Bucks thêm lần nữa, tăng rộng đến các chợ nông sản trong Se- attle. Những ngưởi cổ động thực phẩm kỳ vọng rằng càng lúc có nhiều gia đình có lợi tức thấp sẽ tham gia chương trình này, làm tăng thêm lợi tức cho nông dân địa phương và các chợ nông sản. Chương trình được cung cấp đến tất cả các chợ nông sản trong thành phố Seattle. Hãy mang theo thẻ mua thực phẩm EBT lúc đi mua (rau quả).

The Voice August SEATTLE HOUSING NEWS 2013 News and information about Seattle’s neighborhoods - visit our website at www.voicenewspaper.org

Seattle Housing, Office of Housing partner in energy conservation project at Wildwood Glen Another view of

By Tyler Roush and hydronic heating, the result of an experi- The Voice editor ment to track energy usage across different Yesler systems, Navrides said. Wildwood Glen, a 24-unit senior building The new heating equipment will bring all Terrace in West Seattle, will receive new, energy- units in the building up to modern standards efficient heating systems and other improve- for energy efficiency. ments through a partnership with Seattle New equipment will include energy- Housing Authority and the City of Seattle’s efficient ductless mini heat pumps for all 24 Office of Housing “Homewise” program. units. The city is assuming the cost for the To fund the project, Seattle Housing is new units, Navrides said. Additionally, new leveraging dollars from Seattle’s Office of bathroom lights and bathroom fans will be Housing, which is providing approximately installed in all units. Those units equipped 75 percent of the total project cost. Office of with gas water heaters will receive new, Housing will contribute $100,000, while the energy-efficient electric water heaters. housing authority will contribute $35,000. Navrides noted that Wildwood Glen That’s a significant return on investment, residents are looking forward to the new noted Roxanne Navrides, Seattle Housing improvements. Construction Project Manager. “The people are really excited about it,” “It’s costing (Seattle Housing Authority) she said. 25 cents on the dollar, and we’re saving In addition to the new heat pumps, energy,” she said. Wildwood Glen was one of the few senior- Those savings will make a big difference housing buildings left to receive improve- for the residents of Wildwood Glen, too. For ments to their lights and bath fans. The seniors living on a fixed income, a reduction upgrades will help continue to bring Seattle in utility costs will provide a boon for their Housing’s senior housing portfolio up to Photos by Tyler Roush monthly budgets. high standards for energy efficiency and The Yesler Terrace neighborhood can be seen from a unique perspective The original configuration of the build- sustainability, Navrides said. from the steam plant construction site on a sun-drenched morning in July. ing’s heating systems was a hodge-podge Work at Wildwood Glen is ongoing and is Inset: Mt. Rainier is seen peeking from behind Pacific Medical Center. of standard heat pumps, baseboard heaters expected to be completed in August. For progress photos of the steam plant renovation, see Page 2.

A nature experience unlike any Seeking all Scattered Sites: other at West Seattle’s Camp Long You have a voice on the JPAC If you live in a Scattered Sites property, you have someone who represents you. Contact your representative Gina Owens, a Scattered Sites resident If you live in a Scattered Sites prop- herself, sits on the Joint Policy Advisory erty and would like to get in touch with Committee (JPAC), where she lends her Gina Owens, your JPAC representa- voice to represent the larger community of tive, contact her at 206-538-4589 or Scattered Sites residents. [email protected]. She reached out to The Voice to let people know that she’s there to speak up for them. Effective JPAC representation is an “I wanted to make sure that people know important part of communicating policy that they have a JPAC representative, so they changes to residents, Owens said. If a policy can get their voice heard if they need to,” change goes through, a Seattle Housing Owens said. “I feel like not a lot of people resident shouldn’t learn about it and think, even know about JPAC in the first place. If “We didn’t have a say in that,” Owens noted. they don’t know, certainly they won’t know “That’s what we’re trying to prevent they have a representative who can voice (through JPAC),” Owens added. their concerns.” As a Seattle Housing resident living in The JPAC, comprised of resident lead- Scattered Sites, Owens said she understands Photo courtesy of Seattle Parks and Recreation Campers get up close with an owl during the “Great American Backyard Campout” ers from around the many Seattle Housing the need to provide strong and vocal repre- at West Seattle’s Camp Long. communities, convenes approximately with sentation for residents. The longtime resi- Seattle Housing staff to discuss proposed dent leader has the necessary experience — By Seattle Parks and Recreation Point Center, and wanted to bring them to changes to Seattle Housing’s Low Income a former JPAC chairperson, she previously Camp Long for a unique camping experi- Public Housing policies. JPAC representa- served as ombudsperson for the Resident How did 22 families from the ence with traditional camping activities. tives speak for the communities that they Action Council and recently returned from High Point community spend a She coordinated the event and led activi- represent. an advocacy trip to Washington, D.C. summer night? With an amazing ties with the help of volunteers. Seattle “When policies are being changed or “My voice is resident-driven,” she said shared experience of overnight camping Housing provided help with program pro- new policies being added or policies omit- “I really do stick my neck out there for the and nature activities at Seattle Park’s Camp motion and translation, while NWF paid ted, Seattle Housing has to bring that to residents.” Long! On June 15 and 16, 77 people partic- for cabins, supplied the food and provided the JPAC committee,” Owens said. “We ipated in the National Wildlife Federation’s activities. High Point Neighborhood As- (JPAC) discuss and vote on whether or not “Great American Backyard Campout.” sociation also helped get the word out. it (the proposed policy) is a good change Content guide Camp Long Environmental Learning For many folks, it was an introduction for residents. Center partnered with National Wildlife to Camp Long and a first time experience “Having the voice of the residents so I Don’t see your neighborhood Federation (NWF) and Seattle Housing camping, walking in the woods, or at- know how to vote for those policies would section? Consult the guide Authority to provide free cabins, dinner tending a campfire program. Some of the be perfect for me.” below to find the logos that and breakfast, nature activities, a campfire CampOut highlights occurred around the But for Owens, representing the Scattered correspond to your community. program, a night hike and an early morning fire circle. Because everyone attended and Sites community is, by its very nature, a forest walk. actively participated, there was a strong challenge. High Point Herald Jeanie Murphy-Ouellette, Camp Long sense of community. People enjoyed Because Scattered Sites residents live in Education Specialist, approached NWF swapping stories, and kids led songs and apartments around the city and don’t have NewHolly Notes with the idea to tag on to their annual cam- toasted marshmallows. Some professional any one centralized property or neighbor- pout promotion, part of NWF’s campaign storytellers also brought their tales along hood, it’s hard to reach residents. Rainier Vista News to get more people enjoying the outdoors. with costumes to entertain the families. “The biggest wall we face,” Owens said, Murphy-Ouellette has been providing out- The community had a great dose of Vita- “is the fact that (Scattered Sites residents) reach and education to High Point families live in so many different parts of the city. Yesler Happenings through the Neighborhood House High Please see “Camp” on Page 3 Everyone doesn’t live in one clustered area.” 2 – seattle housing news AUGUST 2013 Building a strong foundation Work continues on the Yesler Terrace steam plant through the summer. Late last month, workers poured cement that will form part of a new addi- tion to the historic building, which is being converted for use as a center for social services. Once the central source for heat and hot water for the Yesler Terrace neighborhood, the steam plant was decom- missioned in the 1980s. After a transitional period as a landscaping and facilities space for Harborview Medical Center, the building, which received historic status by the city’s Landmarks Preservation Board, will soon be home to a Head Start preschool, tutoring center and other com- munity facilities. Construction is expected to be completed in the spring of 2014.

The cement mixer and attached pumper truck features a hydraulic pump arm that rises about three stories above the ground (above right). The pump arm allows workers (near right) more precision and control in pouring concrete at the construction site. Photo by Tyler Roush Workers at the Yesler Steam Plant construction site (above) use a Photos by Tyler Roush cement mixer and pumper truck to pour concrete. The historic steam plant is undergoing renovation work to become a new home for social services in the community.

Summer is the time to prevent reading loss Let’s Read! campaign encouraging mer vacation. The magnets are intended families, children to read together to help keep students’ reading plans front every day and center on the refrigerator all summer long. Colorful posters, stickers and post- By The Road Map Project cards are being used across the region to help remind families of the importance of It may be summer break, but now is reading. Literacy activities are also being the time for children to continue reading infused into existing summer program- and build their literacy skills. Let’s Read!, ming in our region thanks to partnerships the region’s summer reading campaign, is with the United Way of King County and encouraging parents and children to read the YMCA. together each day so students are prepared Here are three tips for summer reading for the upcoming school year. success: Research shows that children who 1. Read every day with your child! don’t read over the summer lose valuable 2. Find the right level of books for your literacy skills and fall behind in the next child at the library. grade. This is especially true for children in 3. Read anywhere – in any language. low-income families. Parents and caregiv- The King County Library System and ers have the power to help children learn Seattle Public Libraries are major partners language and develop an enthusiasm for in the Let’s Read! campaign and provide reading at a young age! many resources for families. To find your Now in its second year, Let’s Read! is local library in Seattle, visit www.spl.org. connecting families to helpful resources For King County, visit www.kcls.org. across the region, such as summer reading Additional reading tips, event informa- programs and summer lunch programs. tion and literacy news are available at By working with seven school districts, www.letsreadkingcounty.com. Let’s Read! the campaign distributed summer reading materials are also available in multiple plans and magnets to 12,040 kindergarten languages at the site. through 2nd grade students before sum-

About The Voice Visit our website: The Voice is a monthly newspaper published by Neighborhood House with financial support from Seattle Housing Authority and King County Housing Au- www.voicenewspaper.org thority. The Voice is developed and edited by Neighborhood House with help from SHA residents and staff. It strives to provide a forum for objective news and in- formation of interest to low-income people and those living in SHA communities. • Exclusive content • Updated weekly If you’d like to submit an article, or if you have a question about anything • Share articles over email or on you’ve read in this publication, please contact Editor Tyler Roush at 206-461- Photo courtesy of michael maggs / Facebook wikimedia commons 8430, ext. 227 or by e-mail at [email protected]. All submissions are subject to editing for accuracy, style and length.

The voice AUGUST 2013 Seattle housing news – 3 Seattle’s Fresh Bucks program allows shoppers to double up EBT funds spent at local farmers markets This summer and fall, EBT users can double their dollars at Seattle farmers markets. The City of Seattle is holding a launch event to announce the start of Fresh Bucks, a public program that provides up to a $10 match at Seattle farmers markets for EBT users. Now through Oct. 31, EBT users at 17 farmers’ markets and farm stands in Seattle will receive a $10 bonus match when spending $10 of EBT on each visit. “For a low-income person, that extra $10 goes a long way.” said Emma Freeman, a senior on EBT, “Every family needs access to healthy food.” In 2012, the city of Seattle piloted the Fresh Bucks program at seven Seattle farmers markets. Enrollment for EBT shot up 150 percent within its first week, while local our communities healthy. We need the mayor and the city farmers saw increased revenue of $70,000. Overall, the council to make this program permanent,” she said. pilot program had a total economic impact of $125,000, The City of Seattle is hosting a special launch event for according to the City of Seattle Office of Sustainability the 2013 Fresh Bucks program, noon Wednesday, July 10 and Environment. at the Pioneer Square Farmers Market, Occidental Park at Community organizations, including Got Green’s wom- S Main Street and Occidental Avenue S. en-led Food Access Team, have been advocating to ensure that this program not only returns but becomes permanent. Where to get your Fresh Bucks Voice file photos by Lisa Girard By collecting petitions and stories of low-income people us- The City of Seattle has extended the Fresh Bucks program Local farmers markets are teeming with fresh fruits and ing this program, meeting with city leaders, and testifying at to all 17 local farmers’ markets and farm stands. EBT users vegetables at this time of year, and now EBT users can the city council meetings, the Food Access Team has shown will receive up to a $10 match when they use EBT funds at stretch their dollars with the Fresh Bucks program. the overwhelming community support for Fresh Bucks. the following farmers’ markets: “Fresh Bucks is a unique program.” said Tammy Nguyen, • City Hall, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Tuesdays; Fourth Avenue Avenue N Got Green’s Women in the Green Economy Project orga- between James and Cherry • Madrona, 3 – 7 p.m. Fridays; Madrona Grocery Outlet, nizer. “There are many great food programs, like Farmers • Pioneer Square, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Wednesdays; Occi- MLK and E Union Street Market Nutrition Program, but they have certain require- dental Avenue S and S Washington • NewHolly Farm Stand, 4 – 7 p.m. Fridays; 42nd Street ments like having children under 5 or being a senior. How- • Columbia City, 3 – 7 p.m. Wednesdays; Edmunds Street S and S Rockery ever, Fresh Bucks covers all low-income people on EBT between 37th Avenue and alley at 36th Avenue • Pike Place Farmers Market, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Friday who want to shop at their local farmers market.” • Wallingford, 3:30 – 7 p.m. Wednesdays; Meridian Park, through Sunday; Pike Place In June of this year, the City Council approved $50,000 in corner of N 50th Street and Meridian Avenue N • University District, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturdays; Univer- their supplemental budget, which along with private dona- • High Point Farm Stand, 4 – 7 p.m. Wednesdays, 32nd sity Way NE and NE 50th Street tions will fund the Fresh Bucks program again, expanding Avenue SW and SW Juneau Street • Magnolia, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturdays; W McGraw it to run at all Seattle farmers markets. Food advocates are • South Lake Union, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Thursdays; Terry Street and 33rd Avenue W expecting more and more low-income families to sign on Avenue between Republican and Harrison • Ballard, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sundays; Ballard Avenue and use the program and generate more income for local • Lake City, 2:30 – 7:30 p.m. Thursdays; NE 125th Street between Vernon Place and 22nd Avenue farmers and farmers markets. and 28th Avenue NE • West Seattle, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Sundays; Fourth Avenue Freeman is telling all of her friends and neighbors about • Queen Anne, 3 – 7 p.m. Thursdays; Queen Anne Avenue SW and SW Alaska Street the Fresh Bucks program. and West Crockett Street • Broadway, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sundays; Broadway Avenue “Access to fresh, local food is so important to keeping • Phinney, 3 – 7 p.m. Fridays; 67th Street and Phinney E and E Pine Street

Camp Mayor McGinn announces support for Continued from Page 1 min N — nature and nature activities — and simply having young immigrants eligible for work visas fun being outside in their neighborhood. Research shows that families can increase their kid’s success in life in all areas — emotional, academic, physical health — by spend- Seattle City Light to help youth ing more time outdoors. Camp Long is here for everyone to use utility bills to prove residency enjoy — whether it is a nature program, an overnight, picnic or simple walk around — all are welcome! Special to The Voice To learn more about Camp Long, call 206-684-7434 or visit http://www.seattle.gov/parks/environment/camplong. A small change in city policy could have a big impact htm or drop by 5200 35th Ave. SW. for young immigrants seeking work visas. Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn announced new city efforts to support young people eligible for work authorizations through the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) policy launched by President Barack Obama in June 2012. Individuals age 18 and over can now call the Seattle City Light Service Center at 206-684-3000 and Photo courtesy of Office of Immigrant & Refugee Affairs have their names added to the utility bill for their home, Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn announces a new city helping to provide a paper trail to prove residency. policy that will make it easier for young eligible DACA offers a two year grant of reprieve from de- immigrants to prove residency and obtain work visas. portation as well as work authorization for unauthorized immigrants who were under the age of 31 as of June 15, have a big impact on the lives of these young people,” 2012 and entered the United States under the age of 16. said McGinn. “We have an opportunity here to support This includes many of those who would have been eligible immigration reform at the local level. We hope other cities for legal residency under the proposed DREAM Act. will follow our lead in supporting youth who are eligible Many DACA-eligible people have reported that one of for DACA.” their greatest challenges is to prove that they have been Jorge Carrasco, General Manager and CEO of Seattle continuously residing in the United States since their ar- City Light said ”Utility bills have historically been used rival in childhood, after years spent hiding the fact of their to document residency for many different purposes, and residency. The City of Seattle will help DACA-eligible Seattle City Light can use an already established process people prove their residency by permitting them to show to help people living in Seattle take advantage of DACA.” utility bills with their name listed. Washington State has Seattle Channel will also be running Public Service over 40,000 residents eligible for a work authorization Announcements to warn DACA-eligible youth about scam- under DACA, many of them currently residing in Seattle. mers who promise to help with immigration paperwork for “These small changes in the way the city operates can a fee, but don’t deliver the services.

The voice 4 – seattle housing news AUGUST 2013

New Housing Alliance program to support and inspire advocates Register by Aug. 9 to join share, and Emerging Advocates program practice ad- vocacy skills By Alouise Urness together. An Washington Low Income Housing individual Alliance project and a day trip to Something new is in the works at the Olympia will Washington Low Income Housing Alliance top off the (Housing Alliance). experience. The Housing Alliance is an organization Partici- that leads and coordinates advocacy on af- pants will fordable housing and homelessness issues, be selected Alouise Urness including advocacy by people affected by based on rel- the issues. evant life experience, what they stand to But in advocating with elected officials, gain from participating, and how much like with so many things, it’s not always they can share and make use of what they Photo courtesy of Housing Alliance easy to understand the process or navigate learn. There’s no charge to participate in Seattle-area advocates wait to speak with their legislator during Housing and the system. the program. Homelessness Advocacy Day 2013. The Housing Alliance is launching an Emerging That’s why the new Emerging Advo- Participants will be able to draw on the Advocates Program to foster more community organizers and leaders. cates Program is so exciting. It builds in knowledge of guest trainers and speakers, the support that many people need to be Housing Alliance staff, and even a legisla- to grow your advocacy skills to match delay! effective advocates for affordable housing tor and/or legislative staffer. the story you have, please check out the and the homeless. They’ll be supported in taking concrete Emerging Advocates Program page at Alouise Urness, Once a week starting in September, the steps like writing a letter to the editor, plan- the website, www.wliha.org/emerging- Community and Member Organizer Emerging Advocates Program will bring ning a meeting with a legislator, or using advocates-program, or contact Alouise Washington Low Income Housing Alliance together a group of 15-20 people with Facebook or Twitter to raise awareness Urness at the Housing Alliance with any 206-442-9455 Ext. 203 real-life experience of the issues. and spur action. questions. [email protected] For six weeks, they’ll be able to learn, If you are looking for an opportunity Applications are due Aug. 9, so don’t

Link light rail: a sweet summer ride presentation about safety around tracks and trains to your school, community center or youth program. It includes a free round- Find your Voice! and a reminder to be safe trip pass for each student and chaperone. Do you want to share By walking or driving near train tracks: Contact Carol Doering at 206-398-5095 or the good things that are • Remove your earbuds and put down [email protected]. happening in your com- Summer is here, and it’s a great time to your cell phone so you can hear the train. Link light rail offers quick, convenient munity? Know a volun- take Link light rail to explore fun events • Cross safely at designated crossings. service to the Rainier Valley, downtown teer or unsung hero who in Rainier Valley neighborhoods. From Pushing the pedestrian button will give you Seattle and Sea-Tac Airport 20 hours per deserves recognition? Want to let your farmers markets to arts and music festivals, more time to cross the street. day, 7 days per week. Construction is neighbors know about a fun activity there’s something for everyone. • Never take shortcuts across the tracks. underway on extensions of Link service that you’re planning? Visit www.soundtransit.org/LinkToFun • Drivers can make left turns safely north to Capitol Hill and the University The Voice is a great place to share to find a list of events to choose from. only at designated crossings marked with of Washington, and south to South 200th your news! One thing that never takes a vacation, a green arrow. Street in the City of SeaTac, all opening For more information about how to though, is your need to pay attention to Kids, log onto www.zaponboard.com in 2016. start your reporting career, contact edi- warning signs and signals as the light rail to find fun activities and watch cool films Questions about Sound Transit services tor Tyler Roush at [email protected] or train passes through your neighborhood. produced by five local high schools. and projects? Visit www.soundtransit.org. 206-461-8430, Ext. 227. Safety is a shared responsibility. When Sound Transit staff will bring a short

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