Free each Volume 28 month Issue 3 A community-based newspaper serving the Puget Sound area since 1981

March 2009 Articles translated into six languages

TheTheThe newspaper VoiceVoice of Neighborhood House Stimulus bill provides new funding for housing Housing For King County Housing Authority it will ects that will get people to work and house within three years. The Seattle Housing be $7,442,556. hardworking low-wage people, seniors, and Authority developed a list of projects like Authority will choose The stimulus package included $4 billion disabled people,” said Tierney. this totaling more than $45 million. This for building projects by housing authori- Of the $4 billion, $3 billion is being list became part of the agency’s annual from projects ready to go ties across the county. By comparison, the distributed to public housing authorities plan as “possible projects that SHA may annual amount provided by Congress for by the Department of Housing and Urban submit” for stimulus funding. The Board By SHA Staff the Public Housing Capital Fund was $2.3 Development. HUD announced on Feb. 25 of Commissioners approved this addition billion in 2007. how much each housing authority will re- to the agency’s annual plan at their meeting Housing authorities received a much- At a press conference on Feb. 17, Seattle ceive. The decision was arrived at by using on Feb. 17. needed boost to their building programs Housing Authority Executive Director Tom the same formula used for regular capital The list of possible projects included when President Obama signed the Ameri- Tierney joined Senator (D- fund amounts. improvements in public housing high-rise can Recovery and Reinvestment Act into WA) in praising the effects of the stimulus In order to be eligible, projects must be buildings—Bell Tower, Denny Terrace law on Feb. 17. For Seattle Housing Author- on affordable housing. “This funding will “shovel ready.” This means that they must ity, this will result in a grant of $17,069,888. allow us to get started right now on proj- be started within 120 days and completed Please see “Stimulus” on Page 3

Ron Sims Hundreds gather in Senator Cantwell visits Rainier Vista named to HUD Olympia for Housing Advocacy Day By Tyler Roush The Voice editor By Lynn Sereda Section 8 Tenant Ron Sims announced Feb. 2 that he was accepting the No. 2 position at the On Feb. 24, more than 500 people from Department of Housing and Urban De- all over the state came to Olympia for Hous- velopment (HUD), leaving his position ing and Homelessness Advocacy Day. as to join the Housing and Homelessness Advocacy Obama administration. day is sponsored by the Low Sims, who had served as county Income Housing Alliance (WLIHA) and executive since 1996, would become The Washington State Coalition for the HUD’s deputy secretary. His nomination Homeless. The morning part of the program is pending confirmation by the Senate. was held at the United Church of Christ, “Ron’s track record as an innova- near the State Capitol buildings. Photo by Ray Li tive leader with an exciting vision for This year, Advocacy Day organizers pre- Senator Maria Cantwell (at lectern) visited the Neighborhood House Rainier the future of our nation’s communities sented a three-person panel of people whose Vista Center to present the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. She is makes him the perfect deputy secretary personal stories were directly related to the backed by (left to right) Jacob So, HomeSight client, Jon Okada of Marpac candidate as we tackle the nation’s hous- types of action that sponsoring organiza- Construction, Tony To, HomeSight executive director, and Heyward Watson, CEO ing crisis amidst the biggest economic tions urged the legislature to take. of Impact Capital and chair of Washington Affordable Housing Advisory Board. downturn in decades,” HUD Secretary One panelist talked about how Wash- SHA residents may turn to the related story on Page 1 of SHA News. said in a statement. ington’s General Assistance Unemployable Sims made the announcement after (GAU) program (a state program providing charge foster children into homelessness. emergency room care, or they are swept into nearly two weeks of speculation that $339 a month to adults unable to work, A similar request is also being voiced in the criminal justice system, where a bed in he would leave his post for a job in the primarily due to a disability) provided him regards to the Department of Corrections jail costs much more money. Obama administration. a safety net that literally kept him off the discharging felons who have served their GAU, which is in danger of being elimi- “There is no leader more commit- street. With housing stability provided, case sentences directly to the streets, where nated due to the budget shortfall, seemed ted to our communities than President management is able to work on long-term chances are more likely that they will re- to be one of the top priorities of the day. Obama; and no champion superior to solutions. enter the prison system again. The fact that GAU is a state program that Secretary Donovan, who is charting a A young woman on the panel then talked While GAU funding might not seem receives no federal funding makes it very new, aggressive course for HUD,” Sims about her experience as a foster child. At directly tied to creating affordable housing, precarious. said in a statement. “I am truly humbled 18 she had to suddenly fend for herself many people noted that it does function Nancy Amidei, an emeritus professor to be asked to join this team.” because she was no longer under the care as a program literally keeping many from from the University of Washington School At the same time he lamented leaving of the state. falling into homelessness. of Social Work gave an introduction to his role as executive. WLIHA is urging the state to ensure the A discussion of the importance of GAU advocacy training. Amidei gave a very “Leaving King County government success of the Homelessness Housing and noted that once a person becomes homeless, detailed presentation on how to talk to a will be very difficult for me,” Sims said. Assistance Act to develop plans and policy it often becomes more expensive for the Please see “Housing Day” on Page 5 Please see “Sims” on Page 4 changes to ensure that DSHS no longer dis- state, as people often become ill and seek

In this issue Quotable Neighborhood House Nonprofit org. Jesse Epstein Building U.S. postage PAID Health Notes Page 2 “Some healthy snacks, such as a bag 905 Spruce Street Seattle, WA hpv vaccine can save lives of raw almonds or carrots, require no Seattle, WA 98104 Permit #8887 One to grow on Page 3 preparation. Five nuts are a snack for find seeds for the people who need energy but want to northwest lose weight.” Advocacy training Page 4 — Miranda Taylor writes in her article on a how-to guide how to eat healthy while on a budget. Read Translations Page 8 the story on Page 2. free tax-prep sites in king county 2 – local and national news MARCH 2009 Health Notes Enjoy healthy and inexpensive A column devoted to your well-being options for snacks and dinner Pap screening, HPV vaccine By Miranda Taylor One container in our refrigerator should SHA Resident have a cooked grain that we can quickly prepare into a snack with olive oil, organic prevent cancer and save lives Inexpensive homemade meals and snacks butter, vegetables, beans or organic meat. involve preparation time, but taking the time Like all foods, whole grains taste better New campaign will make us look, feel and act better! if fresh, which is why storage-tolerant white More information Cheap fast foods and snacks are poor rice is cheaper. Yet quinoa, millet, wild rice, promotes prevention Public Health’s campaign: food choices: we will pay later. Whole, amaranth and teff are some grains that con- www.kingcounty.gov/health/cancer organic good food choices allow our bodies tain more healthful nutrients and fiber than for women with higher to heal faster from daily wear and will truly white rice. Quinoa is the most protein-rich Cervical cancer: nourish us. grain, for example. rates of cervical cancer www.cancer.gov/ If we are truly nourished, we will not Legumes are the protein staple for veg- cancertopics/types/cervical feel as intensely interested in dangerous, etarians, though eggs offer excellent protein By Public Health-Seattle & King packaged snacks. Dry, packaged snacks for pregnancy or nursing. Any animal prod- County HPV vaccine: are hard on our bodies. The body prefers ucts in the United States should be organic A new public education campaign www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/hpv/ moist, whole foods. or we will be consuming higher levels of launched by Public Health-Seattle & King Some people think that wholesome or- toxins and hormones that are not recom- County is aimed at reducing cervical ganic food is for people with lots of money. mended for children through reproductive- cancer rates among local Vietnamese and vision public service announcements in Not true! age people. Latina women. These populations suffer Spanish. Especially if we do not have money, sick- Organic cheese, like organic butter, from higher rates of cervical cancer and In addition to the campaign, Public ness in the family is difficult. Healthy food is healthy and affordable when used as lower rates of screening for the illness. Health continues to work with community will keep our motors well tuned, helping us a flavorful condiment. But unlike most Cervical cancer is a serious illness. partners at the International Community get up in the morning feeling well and last- store-bought prepared foods, which need However, with prevention options avail- Health Services (ICHS) and CASA Lati- ing throughout the day, month and year. to be made with storage-tolerant fats (such able for women today, the odds for staying na’s Women’s Leadership Council to raise No genetic modification (GMO), pesti- as hydrogenated vegetable oil), homemade healthy are better than ever. Many women awareness about the HPV vaccine and the cides or hazardous fertilizers are used on foods can be prepared with healthy fats. benefit from cervical cancer screening Pap test. Trained peer leaders are educat- organic crops (see www.safefoodandfertil- Examples of healthy fats include unre- and vaccine, but some aren’t aware of ing groups of Latina, Vietnamese, Korean, izer.org). So investing in organic ingredients fined oils, olive oil, sesame oil, walnut oil, their choices. Chinese and Samoan women about cervi- allows us to prepare our own inexpensive organic coconut oil, or any oil that is not The new Public Health campaign urges cal cancer, how to prevent it and where to but healthy meals. hydrogenated. all women to get screened and vaccinated find local resources for services. Starting with snacks, we need to satisfy Fresh chopped leafy greens or frozen and enlists mothers to take helpful for a real need for fat, sweets and whole salt. vegetables of many colors provide fibre and their daughters. About Pap tests It is human to desire variety. Make or have nutrients that promote strong muscles, bones “Regular pap screenings for women are Pap tests check for abnormal changes in enough different snacks at home, so you and brains. Add these vegetables to every a proven cancer prevention success, and cells on the cervix, which is the opening to have a variety to choose from. meal of the day. the HPV vaccine is an important vaccine the uterus. Abnormal cells can be treated, Some healthy snacks, such as a bag of raw Vegetables can be chopped, and added for girls and young women,” said Dr. Da- which prevents cervical cancer from almonds or carrots, require no preparation. to the rice or grain, or steamed with salt as vid Fleming, Director and Health Officer developing. Health professionals recom- Five nuts are a snack for people who need a side dish. for Public Health – Seattle & King County. mend that women start Pap test screening energy but want to lose weight. One of the concerns with whole foods is “Our new campaign shares this valuable three years after first sexual intercourse or Almonds contain calcium that builds that there is a lot more chopping and cutting information with Latina and Vietnamese by age 21, whichever comes first. bones, protein and fats that give us strength. before we eat them. We need to have a set women who have had lower screening and In 2006, 82.4% of King County women Carrots are a sweet sensation in a live food. of good knives, and they don’t have to be higher cervical cancer rates.” 18 and over had a Pap test within the past Chew thoroughly. expensive. Most health insurance plans pay for Pap three years, similar to the national aver- Carrots contain sugars, vitamins, fiber, Between downtown and the Spokane tests and HPV vaccine. Schedule an ap- age. However, some women have lower and even important fatty acids. Homemade St. Bridge, at 2963 First Ave. S. in Seattle, pointment with your health care provider. screening rates, including immigrants, sweet rice dessert wrapped in foil from our Dick’s Restaurant Supply has well-made (in You have affordable options. If cost or women without health insurance, Latinas, freezer has more nutrients than store-bought the USA by Dexter Russel), white plastic- lack of insurance is a problem, call the and Asian-Americans. chocolate, candy and chips. handled knives that are very sharp, easy to Community Health Access Program at Olives are an excellent salty treat. By hold and use. They are excellent knives. 1-800-756-5437. HPV and HPV vaccine replacing junk food we save money and we The chef knife is $13.95. The small paring Nationally, 9,700 women are diagnosed Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the feel and look better. knife costs only $3.55. These are the only and 3,700 die of cervical cancer every virus that causes cervical cancer by infect- Meals can be equally simple to prepare. two knives I use in my kitchen. year. In King County, 60 new women ing the cervix. HPV is among the most In our homes, we should be able to find a are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 12 common sexually transmitted diseases few whole grains. Please see “Healthy” on Page 5 women die annually. Pap screening tests (STDs); 75 - 90 percent of all people who for women and the Human papillomavirus have sex will likely have HPV at some Lentil minestrone, serves 4 to 6 chiette, or other favorite shape (HPV) vaccine for females aged 9-26 are point in their lives. While the infection Thin shavings of Parmesan cheese proven ways of substantially reducing does not usually last long, it sometimes This soup is Deborah Madison’s fa- a woman’s risk of developing cervical causes changes which can develop into vorite soup in her cookbook: Vegetarian Preparation cancer. cancer if not treated. Cooking for Everyone. She writes that Heat the oil in a wide soup pot with HPV vaccine protects against two types “It’s better when cooked ahead of time, the onion. Saute, stirring frequently, until About the new campaign of Human papillomavirus that cause 90 but add the cooked pasta and greens just lightly browned, about 10-15 minutes. Public Health’s targeted public educa- percent of all genital warts and two types before serving so that they retain their (Miranda’s note: Do not allow oil to tion campaign, entitled Take Care of Your- of HPV that cause 70 percent of all cervical color and texture.” smoke since that creates carcinogens.) self, Take Care of Her, encourages mothers cancer. HPV vaccine works best before Add the tomato paste, parsley, garlic, to make an appointment for their own Pap women are exposed to the virus through Ingredients vegetables, and 2 teaspoons salt and cook test and their daughter’s vaccination. sexual activity, and is recommended for all 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus 3 minutes more. Add the lentils, aromat- The campaign, which runs through girls 11-12 years of age. Girls and women extra oil to finish ics, and water and bring to a boil. Lower early 2009, includes print advertisements up through 26 years of age can also benefit 2 cups finely chopped onion the heat and simmer, partially covered, in Vietnamese, as well as radio and tele- from the vaccine. 2 tablespoons tomato paste for 30 minutes. Taste for salt and season The Voice ¼ cup chopped parsley with pepper. If it needs more depth add Reporters 4 garlic cloves, chopped (mushroom) soy sauce to taste, starting Editor Jim Bush 1 cup diced celery or celery root with 1 tablespoon. (The soup may seem Tyler Roush Chris Lincoln Salt and freshly ground pepper bland at this point, but the flavor will 206-461-8430, ext. 227 Kristin O’Donnell 1 cup French green lentils, sorted and come together when the soup is finished.) [email protected] Lynn Sereda Miranda Taylor rinsed Remove the aromatics. Aromatics: 2 bay leaves, 8 parsley Boil the greens in salted water until The Voice, the newspaper of Neighborhood House, is published monthly with the support of branches, 6 thyme sprigs they’re tender and bright green, then Seattle Housing Authority and the King County Housing Authority. Neighborhood House helps 9 cups water or vegetable stock chop them coarsely. Just before serving, 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- Soy sauce or mushroom soy sauce to add the greens and the pasta to the soup ing low-income people, immigrants, refugees and other concerned parties with timely, relevant taste and heat through. Serve with extra virgin news. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the staff, Neighborhood House, SHA 1 bunch greens — mustard, broccoli rabe, olive oil drizzled into each bowl, a gener- or KCHA. We welcome articles and tips from the community and reserve the right to edit all chard, or spinach ous grind of pepper, and the Parmesan submissions. The Voice is published online at www.nhwa.org and at www.seattlehousing.org. 2 cups cooked small pasta — shells, orec- cheese.

The voice mARCH 2009 Local and national news – 3 Create a log of One to grow on Be safe criminal activity Garden tips for community gardeners

By Seattle Neighborhood Group you tell a neighbor? Did your neighbor see or hear the same incident? When preparing for the 2009 growing Last month, we talked about ways to You can also record how each incident respond to ongoing criminal activity. We affected you. Did the incident frighten season, make sure you plant the right seeds discussed the importance of calling 911 you or make you angry? Did you have each time you witness or suspect criminal to leave somewhere because the incident By Anza Muenchow spinach leaf miner, whereas eastern garden- activity. We also talked about working made you feel unsafe? Special to The Voice ers fight the Japanese beetles, tomato horn with neighbors and your community See the chart below for an example of worms and corn ear worms. police team officer. what a log might look like. The days are noticeably longer — prob- These seed catalogs offer many organic This month, “Be Safe” will discuss Logs can help the police and the SHA ably four more minutes of light each day seed choices, too. A new small local seed another strategy for neighbors who wit- management office identify any crime now. Spring is coming and the soil is warm- company is Uprising Seeds. Though Upris- ness criminal activity: logging your ob- patterns in the community so they can ing enough to begin planting some crops. ing Seeds doesn’t have many seed varieties, servations as they occur. Logging does assign staff to problem areas more effec- Take time in selecting the seed varieties that I enjoyed reading their catalog and feel con- not replace calling 911. But it can be a tively. When you have finished filling up are best suited for our Northwest maritime fident about the sources they have chosen useful tool to document neighborhood a page, give a copy to your Community climate. for supplying their seeds. crime problems. Police Team Officer and (if appropriate) How important is it to consider the Suppose you are at a local store and they Setting up a log is simple. You can to your property manager. Always keep particular genetics of a seed? You want have a good sale on seeds from Midwest or keep it on your computer, in a notebook, in a copy for yourself. good production, but you also want good Atlantic seed companies. For the price, it a digital device, or write it on a calendar: Remember the purpose of logging is taste and nutrition. Many conventional may be worth trying some of those seeds. whatever works best for you. to record illegal activities, not to record seed producers grow for crops that need to But you will need to adjust the instructions. It is important to include the location, the activities of people you dislike or maintain “freshness” while traveling hun- “Days to maturity” for most crops will be time and date of each incident that you disagree with. The police do not enforce dreds (thousands?) of miles and sitting in a much longer than it says on the seed packet, observe. Include a description of the civil codes, community standards, or grocery store for a few more weeks. especially the flowers or fruiting crops such event and any individuals and vehicles get involved in neighbor-to-neighbor These are not qualities that a home gar- as peppers, squashes and pumpkins. involved. disputes. dener cares about. Unfortunately, there are If the seed packet says 90 or 100 days, Write down what you did. Did you If you are interested in learning more fewer and fewer seed companies to supply then you may not be successful, unless you call the police? Did the police respond about witnessing and reporting ongoing our small farmers and gardeners. Many of plan to grow it in a greenhouse. quickly? Did the police give you an inci- crime activities, contact Kelly McKinney the long time, tried and true, home garden For organizing seeds, I use a small file dent report number? Did you notify the (206-323-7084) and Allan Davis (206-323- varieties are not being grown by seed com- box with monthly folders in it. When I buy property manager, (if appropriate)? Did 7094) at Seattle Neighborhood Group. panies anymore, which depend on sales to or collect seeds, I organize by month so I the large corporate farming operations. remember to get my crops started on time. I am increasingly concerned as the small For the plants that can’t be directly sown seed growers are bought up by Monsanto and need to be started indoors, I have an- and other corporations, and then they stop other section in my file box for those seeds producing the varieties that small farmers I start indoors to transplant out later. These and gardeners have depended on for years. include some favorite tomatoes, peppers Sadly, I’ve said goodbye to many of my old and eggplants. favorites and am constantly searching for This month you may want to start these new varieties to replace them. crops indoors: lettuce, chard, broccoli, bok I do save many seeds, but I don’t have choy, kohlrabi, peppers, and tomatoes. enough knowledge or time to manage the At the end of March, you can direct seed natural hybridizing in my small garden set- outdoors beets, carrots, rapini, cilantro and ting. Perhaps this should be a larger focus of mustards. The early broccoli starts can be my gardening in the coming years. planted outside by the end of March also. Where do local growers look for the As I write this article, I am still waiting seeds grown or specialized for the cool for a soaking February rain to water in the summers we have in the Northwest? Some peas we planted. But the days have been dry recommended seed companies are: Fedco enough to start preparing the beds, turning and Johnny’s (from Maine) and Territorial in some good compost and incorporating Stimulus Stimulus money coming to and Abundant Life (from Oregon). lime to increase soil pH, especially for the Continued from front page Washington state The Territorial seed catalog is especially Brassica beds. Enjoy the start of the 2009 and Jefferson Terrace. Other projects could useful for its growing instructions. This growing season. include upgrades to Scattered Sites hous- Washington state stands to re- catalog includes the planting instructions, ing and to apartments at Tri-Court. These ceive several billion dollars to fill harvesting tips, and a good description of Anza Muenchow is a farmer and a vol- upgrades would make the housing more ac- budget gaps and maintain service the pest management issues that impact the unteer with P-Patch. You can reach her by cessible to people with disabilities. Finally, levels. According to a preliminary different crops we grow in the Northwest. e-mail at [email protected] or on the list included redevelopment projects at analysis by Senator Patty Murray’s For example, we have carrot rust fly and the Internet at www.mahafarm.com. High Point and Rainier Vista. office, Washington state will receive Housing Authority staff members are $812 million to help avoid cutbacks working on a proposal to the Board of Com- in education spending, $500 million Community notes missioners with their recommendations of for road and bridge construction, projects to fund. The Board will make the over $2 billion to defray increasing Experience nature Youth and families from underserved final decision about which projects will Medicaid costs, and $66 million for with National Park program communities are encouraged to apply for use the funding, most likely in March or job training initiatives. The Northwest is a land of remarkable this program, which runs from April 24 April. Congress and the President hope natural beauty, and there are a number to Sept. 20. Families and youth ages 6 to The remaining $1 billion will be given the influx of funds will quickly of recreational opportunities available 15 with limited opportunities to explore out through a competitive process. HUD create and preserve jobs, as well as through our state and national parks. parks are invited to attend all phases of will favor projects that use the funds for help local areas fill funding gaps The National Park Service, through the program. partnerships with the private sector. HUD and maintain social services. a partnership with Seattle Parks and Informational sessions will be held also wants to use the competitive funding The multibillion dollar package Recreation, is encouraging underserved at selected Seattle Parks Community for renovations and investments in energy is not a cure-all, however — elected families to take advantage of national Centers throughout March: conservation. officials are warning constituents parks in the region. South Park Community Center, 6 Seattle Housing Authority will ask HUD that while the 2009 American Re- The National Park Service and Seattle p.m. March 4 for some of the competitive funding. These covery and Reinvestment Act will Parks and Recreation have planned a va- Hiawatha Community Center, 6:15 grants will be made by the HUD Secretary certainly help states and cities fill riety of programs to engage and connect p.m. March 10 by Sept. 30. funding gaps and hopefully stem families to the outdoors. The six-phase Delridge Community Center, 6 p.m. The stimulus bill included funding for job losses, there will be no quick fix program culminates with an overnight March 11 other affordable housing programs. The to the current economic crisis. camping adventure at Mount Rainier Southwest Community Center, 6 p.m. Low Income Tax Credit program was National Park. March 18 awarded $2.5 billion. This funding will help Participants will learn more about High Point Community Center, 6:15 the program work for housing developers urban and national parks and their his- p.m. March 19 during the current credit crunch. If develop- The bill also funds homelessness tory. Topics covered will include proper For more information, contact Brad ers have projects that are ready to go, this prevention programs with an additional camping behavior in parks, park values Carlquist at [email protected] or funding can help them get started without $1.5 billion and provides $2 billion to and caring for park resources while en- 206-220-4229, or Sheila Brown at sheila. having to wait for a tax-credit investor to help areas where foreclosures threaten joying and learning about nature. [email protected] or 206-684-7415. participate. neighborhood stability.

The voice 4 – local and national news MARCH 2009

Sims Seattle police chief tapped as Continued from front page drug czar, former Gov. “In my mind and heart, I see and feel the picked for commerce work that needs to be done to complete the The Obama administration last transformation of this region into the best month tapped Seattle Police Chief Gil place in the world.” Kerlikowske as director of the Office of Sims will not resign his position until National Drug Policy, a position com- the HUD appointment is confirmed by the monly referred to as “drug czar.” Senate. By accepting the position, Ker- Sims’ departure leaves open the race likowske joined King County Execu- for King County Executive in 2009. In tive Ron Sims as the second prominent the meantime, it is up to the King County local official to take a job with the new Council to nominate someone to fulfill the administration. remainder of Sims’ term. Kerlikowske, 59, was appointed He has said he would like a caretaker to chief by then-Mayor Paul Schell in move into his position — someone with no 2000. ambition to run for the office in 2009. Gary Locke’s appointment as com- “I would suggest that the Council select merce secretary increased to three a caretaker Executive to serve out the re- the number of Obama administration mainder of 2009,” Sims said in a statement. officials with strong ties to Washing- “Why a caretaker? Because this is a unique ton state. election and the people of King County File photo Locke, a Democrat, was a two-term must make this decision.” King County Executive Ron Sims speaks during the Neighborhood House High Point governor, serving from 1997 to 2005. , chairman of the Neighborhood Center groundbreaking event Aug. 16, 2008. Sims has been tapped by He was President Obama’s third , supported Sims’ the Obama administration as deputy secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban choice for the position. New Mexico proposal. Development. Governor Bill Richardson withdrew “I will sit down immediately with my from consideration in light of a federal colleagues to create a non-partisan process for the housing sector and Ron is the right a $177,000 salary as deputy secretary of investigation into a business deal in his to choose an interim replacement to serve person to ensure people have stable afford- HUD. state and New Hampshire Senator Judd the remainder of Executive Sims’ term,” able housing during these difficult times. Sims was appointed county executive in Gregg, a Republican, bowed out after Constantine said. “It is the voters of King His diverse array of skills and dynamic 1996 when then-Executive Gary Locke was citing philosophical differences with County — not this Council — who this spirit will make him an invaluable advocate elected as governor. Sims was elected to the the administration. November will select an Executive to serve for HUD.” post in 1997 and again in 2001 and 2005. them for the next four years.” “Ron will bring years of experience and His appointment to HUD comes as he was King County Councilman Larry Phil- a passion for community development to his preparing for his own bid for a fourth full “I am thrilled and honored that Ron lips has announced his intention to run new position,” said Senator Patty Murray. term as county executive. has agreed to be considered for this role,” for county executive in the 2009 general “We have worked side-by-side to improve As deputy secretary, Sims will manage Donovan said. “He is the perfect person to election. affordable housing opportunities and re- HUD’s 8,500 employees and $39 billion help HUD return to national leadership on Local political leaders offered their con- duce homelessness in King County, so I operating budget. metropolitan planning. Together, we will gratulations to Sims. know he will jump into this national role Seattle Housing Executive Director Tom work with President Obama to ensure HUD “While it is bittersweet to see my friend with both enthusiasm and know-how. And Tierney is supportive of Sims’ nomination. is doing all it can to help the nation’s com- Ron leave our great state, he will be a that is exactly what this agency needs.” “We have worked closely with Ron Sims munities recover from today’s economic wonderful representative of the Northwest Sims’ move to HUD comes with a and know him to be a passionate advocate realities and to better position them for the in the other Washington,” Governor Chris pay-cut — he had made $186,000 annu- for low-income people and their housing future.” Gregoire said. “This is a challenging time ally as county executive, and will receive needs.” Training on legislative advocacy Day-tripping: Take a morning (not Washington Low-Income and adopted by a certain time. While many people may think this may an afternoon) trip to Edmonds Housing Alliance hosts be the best time to provide input on certain issues, legislators are much more available By Kristin O’Donnell museum is small, located in an old library. advocacy workshops to meet with their constituents when the SHA Resident There’s a display of toys ranging from 19th By Jim Bush legislature is not in session because, in century doll dishes to Star Wars action SHA Resident addition to their legislative duties, they Trip number one to Edmonds: Left figures — that pretty much guarantees work full-time in the legislative districts downtown Seattle at 1:30 p.m., arriving in nostalgia for most visitors. The museum Recently, a number of SHA residents they represent. Edmonds at 2:45 p.m. volunteers were very helpful. and other community advocates partici- Therefore, it is probably best to contact The Senior Center thrift shop is closed. Then a quick stop at City Hall across pated in a series of workshops facilitated by them in their district offices, which are The Senior Center is closing. The Visitor the street for more brochures and maps. Michael Kelly, a mobilization coordinator located within their legislative district, Center is closed. The museum will close in Then lunch at the deli recommended by from the Washington Low Income Hous- since they can more easily meet with you 15 minutes. The bakery is closed. More than museum staff, and a stroll through town ing Alliance (WLIHA), an organization and your constituency group when they’re a few downtown restaurants have closed for to the waterfront, visitor maps in hand. In that works with various city, county and closer to the people they represent. the day. It is starting to rain. Edmonds “historically significant” isn’t state officials on legislative policies as How do you contact elected officials? I drop into a coffee shop by the ferry very old or very fancy and it is still a place they relate to issues concerning low-in- Each one has at least two ways to do so landing, get soup and coffee and read the where the gift, antique and craft shops and come housing and how to ensure there are — by phone and by mail. Many also have newspaper. It is seriously raining. It is art galleries have not yet pushed out the enough units to meet the demand, given email addresses and/or Web sites, which getting dark. dentist’s offices, shoe repair places and the current economic climate. are the preferred methods of getting in I walk the two blocks to the Edmonds dry cleaners. During these workshops, people were contact with them. transit terminal and catch the bus back to But there are enough shops to make given a lot of valuable information, in- Seattle. Memo to self (and other travelers): browsers — especially craft or antique cluding how to effectively provide input Contact your legislator starting early is better, especially in winter. loving browsers — happy. to elected officials and other government While the state Legislature is in ses- And check the weather forecast. Edmonds’ wonderful place is the water- decision-makers on issues that may be sion, you can go to Olympia and visit Trip number two to Edmonds, starting front. North of the ferry landing there’s a relevant to a constituency’s needs. your elected representatives in person, at 9:30 a.m. this time: I now have both the park with an underwater reef where scuba Other topics included how to get more making it possible to give them a personal Sound Transit and the Community Transit divers are often visible (and whales and people involved in the advocacy process perspective on the issues you want to talk schedule books (available on the buses and porpoises, sometimes). and how to interact with local news media to them about. also at Metro offices at Westlake and on The South County Senior Center is south (newspapers primarily) to advocate for a If you want to go to Olympia with a South Jackson Street). of the ferry dock. It has a view of the Sound, particular point of view on a given issue. group to speak with your legislators, there Community transit schedules are excel- the ferry and the Olympic Mountains, and A number of key points were made are many organizations, such as WLIHA, lent, with clear detailed maps, including not is surrounded on three sides by a park with during the first session, especially when which sponsor advocacy days specific to only the routes but also surrounding streets paths, benches and access to the sandy it came to establishing contact with state particular issues. – no need for another map! beach, a great place for beach-walking, representatives. Another way to provide input is through My first stop (off the bus at Fifth and sunset watching or a picnic. The state Legislature meets for 65 days the Legislative Hotline, where people can Dayton) in Edmonds is the Visitor Center The Senior Center also has a Thrift Store (short session) in even numbered years leave messages for their state representa- (next to the Museum at 118 Fifth Ave. N., to — the Edmonds transit center is in front of and for 105 days (long session) in odd- tives (in the House and Senate, as well pick up walking guides to historic buildings the Senior Center. numbered years; the reason for the longer as the Governor’s Office), find out about and public art. Lunch: Some under $7 possibilities: session is to develop and pass the state’s pending bills (and where they are in the Then on to the Edmonds Historical Mu- biennial budget, which must be balanced Please see “Advocacy” on Page 5 seum (recommended donation is $2). The Please see “Edmonds” on Page 5 The voice mARCH 2009 Local and national news – 5

Lobby Days scheduled in March Night out at Greenbridge Get out and advocate! The following Day are lobby days scheduled in Olympia Contact 206-624-2184 during March. March 17 — Faith Advocacy Day: March 5 — Toxic Free Legacy Coali- Fund Families First tion Lobby Day Location: United Churches of Olympia, Contact Anna Davis, adavis@watoxics. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. org, 206-632-1545 Contact Amanda Martinez, martinez@ thewac.org, 206-625-9790 March 5 — Washington CAN! Lobby Day March 19 — Statewide Domestic Contact Maru Mora Villalpando, maru@ Violence Lobby Day washingtoncan.org 206.389.0050 Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence March 10 — Healthy Washington Location: United Churches of Olympia Coalition Lobby Day Contact: Christine Olah, christine@ Contact Fatima Morales, fatima@wash- wscadv.org, 206-389-2515 ingtoncan.org 206.389.0050 March 20 — Hunger Action Day March 12 — Equal Rights Lobby Children’s Alliance Photo by Denise Sharify Day Location: Columbia Room, 10 a.m. Greenbridge residents enjoyed a family night Feb. 18 at the Boys and Girls Contact equalrightswashington.org, Contact: Margy Boll, Margy@children- Club at Wiley Center. Guests enjoyed dinner and prizes, browsed informational 206-324-2570 salliance.org, 1-800-854-KIDS tables assembled by service providers, and played a variety of games and contests. Neighborhood House partnered with KCHA, Roxbury Clinic, White March 13 — Hispanic/Latino March 25 — Washington State Senior Center Community Development Association, YWCA, Boys and Girls Club and Legislative Day Citizens’ Lobby Day the Environmental Coalition of South Seattle to put on the event. Location: State Capitol campus, Olym- Location: Columbia Room The Greenbridge Family Night was organized to encourage active living among pia, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Contact: Karen Bowen, seniorlobby@ residents and to promote community services, according to Neighborhood Contact www.hispaniclegislativeday. qwestoffice.net, 360-754-0207 House’s Denise Sharify. KCHA residents may turn to the related story on Page 8 org/wahld/ of the KCHA News section. List compiled by SHA Resident Kristin March 16 — ACLU Washington Lobby O’Donnell and Ride, transfer to Community Transit Edmonds bus 110 (fare $1.50/ $1 /$0.50 — you should Continued from Page 4 get credit for your Sound Transit transfer). How successful was Housing and Home- At the Senior Center lunch is served at The 110 bus is usually waiting at the Housing Day lessness Advocacy Day? At The Voice Continued from front page noon; sign up at 11 a.m. $2.50 for eligible Park and Ride. Get off at Fifth and Dayton press deadline, much of the legislation has seniors, $5.15 for others. Senior Center for downtown Edmonds, Railroad Avenue legislator about an issue and provided a not come to the floor for a final vote, mean- members praised the food, but it wasn’t (end of the line) for the Senior Center and packet of helpful materials. ing some bills may have changes written a good menu for a vegetarian. waterfront. Amidei noted that the keys to effective into them or may not be moved to the floor Edmonds Community College Café Another route to Edmonds — Metro 358 advocacy are to introduce yourself, state in time for a vote. (the bus stops there on the way into Ed- to Aurora Village connects with CT 131 at which group or groups you belong to and, The best way you can find out what monds) has an interesting menu. Aurora Village. The trip cost less (especially if possible, the number of people the group happened is to go to the Washington State Downtown: the usual lunch restau- if you have a Metro Pass), takes longer and represents, mention the legislative district Legislature Web site at www.leg.wa.gov. rants, bakery sandwiches, teriyaki and you get to see a lot of Aurora Avenue and old you belong to, and of course note that you If you know the bill number or a few key burrito places. Terminal Caffeine by the Highway 99 with its motels, used car lots are a dedicated registered voter. words, you can type it in on the bill tracker ferry landing has good soup and sand- and thrift stores (a Deseret Industries, a St. After this introduction, you should and find out what happened. wiches, and Petosa’s Family Grocery Vincent De Paul, and two, yes, two Value mention which bill you would like your Even though these are tough times be- at 550 Fifth Ave. S. (recommended by Villages). If you get off the bus for thrift representative to support and briefly explain cause of the recession and budget shortfall, Museum and Visitor Center staff) has a stores, this can be an all-day trip. why you think it is important for them to Amy Clark, Director Of Communications great Deli — the lines at lunch are long, The connection between the 131 and support the bill. for the WLIHA, was upbeat about Housing and it is worth the wait. 358 at Aurora Village may require a 25- Written materials supplied in the packets Advocacy Day. Getting there and back: Sound Transit minute wait. contained summaries of some of the pro- “It was….incredibly successful. There bus 511 leaves from downtown on Fourth Accessibility — All buses and streetcars posed housing bills, along with brief “bul- were more tenants and people directly Avenue approximately every 30 minutes have lifts or flat floors; Edmonds has curb let points” which were of immense help in impacted by affordable housing legislation seven days a week. (If you are leaving cuts in the right places. Some of the older preparing the advocates to speak effectively present this year,” she said. “There were from the north end of Seattle the 511 also downtown buildings have steps at the en- when meeting with their representatives. people from 47 of the state’s 49 legislative stops at 45th N.E. next to the freeway). trance. The Visitor Center is not accessible, Amidei said that a personal story can also districts present. When average people Schedules are available on the buses, but many maps and brochures available be effective in persuading a legislator to impacted by the housing situation come and and the fare is $2.50 adult/ $1.75 youth/ there can be picked up at City Hall. Getting support legislation, provided that one is able tell their stories, that is when the legislators $1.25 senior and disabled. down to the beach is possible, but sand, to keep their story focused and brief. really listen.” Get a transfer — At Lynnwood Park gravel and slopes are challenging.

Advocacy to keep your message simple and germane to you bring into the loop on your issue, the Healthy Continued from Page 4 the current issues being discussed. If you are more effective your input will be, meaning Continued from Page 2 advocating a certain position and the person more action will be taken (by the decision legislative process) and request copies of you are contacting is not actively involved in makers) to address your issues. In steering away from junk food, pending legislation. the discussion on that issue (they’re not on a In fact, it is quite advisable that you get we can steer back to our traditions, The numbers to call are 1-800-562-6000 committee that is working on that issue), it your network of friends, family members using whole foods. Good fats, whole (voice) or 1-800-635-9993 (TTD). may be necessary to provide that individual and colleagues to join you in contacting salt and desserts that our grandmothers If you’re not sure who your elected repre- with some background information on why elected and appointed representatives to recognized are still recommended by sentatives are, you can get that information, the issue is important to you and why you advocate the points of view you are wanting nutritionists. along with Olympia phone numbers and are advocating your position on it. to express. When we plan dinner, there is a dif- email addresses through the Hotline or by If the person being contacted is actively Elected officials need to hear from con- ference between cheap and healthy food, going to www.leg.wa.gov. involved in the discussion (they are part of a stituents on what they’re doing, whether it’s which we prepare ourselves, and cheap Contact information for each legisla- committee discussing a particular issue), you being done right or could be done differently. and unhealthy food, which ends up cost- tor can also be found in the 2009 edition should urge your point of view be considered When providing input, ensure the informa- ing us more because we pay for it with of “They Represent You,” a publication as a part of the discussion, along with provid- tion you provide is factual and based on our health. produced by the League of Women Voters ing the same background information. relevant information. Keep this in mind: by planning our (LWV), which has contact information for In fact, if you are contacting a representa- If you have any statistics or testimonials weekly meals and snacks, we can eat all city, county and other elected officials, tive about a certain piece of legislation that available to back up your comments (this meals that are tasty and truly nourish- as well as Washington State members of is being considered, it helps to have the bill is strongly advised, by the way), make this ing. Congress and the Senate. number (or ordinance number in the case of information a part of your original testimony Copies of this valuable document are city legislation) available. or have it available as a separate document Miranda Taylor is on the High Point available through the LWV office by call- you can send later. Neighborhood Association board, and ing 329-4848 or sending an email to info@ Share your passion is an acupuncturist and an herbalist in seattlelwv.org. Do you have an issue you’re passionate Robert Canamar assisted in the writing the community. www.TaylorGoodHealth. When contacting government officials, try about? Let people know! The more people of this article. com, (206) 932-4371.

The voice  - Classifieds march 2009 CClassifiedslassifieds THE Marketplace of The VOICE

The Voice march 2009 Classifieds -  CClassifiedslassifieds THE Marketplace of The VOICE

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The Voice 8 – local and national news MARCH 2009 TranslaTranslattionsions TRANSLATED ARTICLES FROM THE VOICE

Get free help with your taxes ወይም ገቢ ያገናችሁትን የዓመቱን ነጻ ናይ ታክስ ምምላእ ሓገዛት ናይ ካልእ እቶትኩምን ተቕርቡ የነፃ የታክስ እርዳታ አግኙ! መጨረሻ መረጃ ክትረኽቡ ትኽእሉ ኢኹም። ናይ ዓሚ ታክስ ዝመልእክምዎ እስከ አፕሪል 15 ድረስ በተለያዩ • ያለፈውን ዓመት የታክስ ሪተርን ነጻ ናይ ታክስ ምምላእ ሓገዛት ፎርም ምስዝህልውኩም በኪንግ ካውንቲ ቦታዎች የዩናይትድ ኮፒ ካለዎት ክትረኽቡ ትኽእሉ። ሶሻል ሰኩሪቲ ካርድ ናይ ታክስ ዌይ የነፃ የታክስ ዝግጅት ካምፔን • የሶሻል ሴኩሪቲ ካርድ ቁጥር ወይም ካብ ኣፕሪል 15 ጀሚሩ ኣኣብ መለለዬ የነፃ እርዳታና የታክስ ሪተርን ስራ የተለዬ ታክስ ክፍያ መታወቂያ ቁጥር ሓድ ሓደ ቦታታት ብዩናይትድ ቁጽሪ ዕለተ ልደት ይሰጣል፡፡። ይህ የነፃ ግልጋሎት የቤት እንዲሁም በፎርሙ ላይ የሚገኙትን ወይ ኦፍ ኪንግ ካዉንቲ ፍሪ ታክስ ናይ ኩሎም ኣባላት ስድራ ቤትኩምን ገቢያቸው ከ$42,000 ብር ላነሰ ቤተሰብ ግለሰቦች የተወለዱበት ቀን ፕረፕ ካምፐይን ኣቢልኩም።እዚ ነጻ ናይ ቻይልድ ኬር ወናኒ ስም ብቻ ነው፡፡ ቀጠሮ አያስፈልግዎትም • የልጅዎን የጠባቂ ስምና አድራሻ ናይ ታክስ ምድላው እቶቶም ትሕቲ ኣድራሻን ታክስ ኣይድን ግን አብዛኞቹ ቦታዎች ሰው ስለሚበዛ የታክስ መታወቂያ ቁጥር $42,000 ኣብ ዓመት ንዝኹኑ ብነጻ ንታክስ ይጠቅም እዩ እትብልዎ ይቐርብ። ወረቓቕትን ነገራትን ሒዝኩም ትቀርቡ የተሟላ ግልጋሎት ለማግኘት ቀደም • ማንኛውንም ለታክስ ሪተርን ቆጸራ ኣየድልየኩምን እዩ ሰብ እቲ ዝምለሰልኩም ገንዘብ ቐጥታ ብሎ መገኘት ያስፈልጋል፡፡ ይ ረ ዳ ል ብ ለ ው የ ሚ ያስ ቡ ት ን፣ ስለዝበዝሕ ግን ኣብቲ እቲ ቦታ ኣብ ናይ ባንክ ሒሳብኩም ይህ የታክስ ግልጋሎት የሚሰጠው እርግጠኛ ባይሆኑም በተለ ያ ዩ ቋ ን ቋ የ ነ ፃ ግል ጋሎ ት ዝኽፈተሉ ሰዓታት ክትመጹ ኣለኩም። ምስትደልዩ ናይ ባንክ ሒሳብኩም • የሚመለስልዎ ገንዘብ ቀትታ እቶም ነዚ ኣገልግሎት ዘቕርቡ ቑጽሪ ሒዝኩምዎ ትመጹ በሚሰጡና የምስክር ወረቀት ባላቸው ወደባንክዎ እንዲገባ ከፈለጉ የባንክ ሰባት ዝተፈላልዩ ቋንቋታት ዝዛረቡን ንዝያዳ ሓበሬታ ናይ ታክስ ምድላው በኢንተርናሽናል ሬቬኑ አገልግሎት ቁጥርዎን ይዘው ይምጡ ብኣይኣርኤስ ምስኩራትን ዝኾኑ ፕሮግራም ኣብዚ ዝስዕብ ስልኪ የሚዘጋጅ ነው፡፡ ለ ማ ን ኛ ው ም የ ነ ፃ ው ታ ክ ስ እዮም። ቁጽሪ ትድዉሉ 2-1-1 ወይድማ 1- ይዛችሁ የምትቀርቡት የሚከተሉት አገልግሎት በስልክ ቁጥር 2-1-1 ወይም ኣዞም ዝስዕቡ ነገራት ሒዝኩም 877-211-9274 ውይድማ ኣብዚ ናቸው፡ 1-877-211-9274 ወይም unitedway- ትቐርቡ። ዝስዕብ ወብሳይት ትምልከቱ • ማንኛውም w-2 ፎርም፣1099 ofkingcounty.org/taxhelp ዳብልዩ 2 ፎርም .1099 ፎርም ካልእ unaitedwayofkingcounty.org/taxhelp. ፎርም እንዲሁም ከማንኛውም ስራ ናይ ስራሕኩም ደሞዝ ኣብ መጨረሻ ዓመት ዝተዋህበኩምን

KHAI THUẾ MIỄN PHÍ tờ chứng minh mức lương nhận Đã có việc giúp khai thuế miễn được từ sở làm và các nguồn lợi phí từ nay đến hết ngày 15 Tháng tức khác 4 ở một số địa điểm, nhă72m trong Bản sao giấy khai thuế năm Chiến Dịch Khai Thuế Miễn Phí trước nữa, nếu có của cơ quan United Way. Dịch vụ Số An Sinh Xã Hội hay số thuế khai thuế miễn phí này dành cho vụ , ngày sinh của tất cả mọi người các gia đình kiếm được mức lương trong mẫu đơn khai thuế dưới $42,000 một năm. Tên người giữ trẻ, địa chỉ, số Qúi vị không cần làm hẹn. nhận dạng thuế vụ. Nhưng vì ở nhiều nơi có đông Các giấy tờ khác mà thấy cần cho người đến khai, do đó qúi vị nên việc khai thuế đến sớm trước giờ khai thuế để Nếu qúi vị muốn tiền bồi hòan gở được phục vụ. thăng vào trương mục ngân hang Việc giúp khai thuế được cung của qúi vị, phải đem theo số trương cấp bởi các nhân viên tình nguyện mục ngân hang. nói đuợc nhiều ngôn ngữ và được Để biết thêm thông tin về việc xác nhận bởi Sở Thuế Vụ. khai thuế miễn phí, xin gọi cho Sau đây là các giấy tờ qúi vị phải 2-1-1 hoặc gọi số 1-877-211-9274 đem theo khi đi khai thuế: hoặc vào trang mạng unitedway- Mẫu W-2, mẫu 1099 và các giấy ofkingcounty.org/taxhelp.

Ma rabtaa in Canshuurtaada litaanka dakhli eed ka heshay laguugu xareeyo Bilaash goobaha aad ka soo shaqaysay Hay’adda United Way of King iyo ,meelaha kale ee lacagi kaa County waxay qaadey olole ku soo gashay. wajahan sidii ay qofafka iyo • Soo qaado koobigii cans- qoysaska sameeya in ka yar huurtii aad sanadkii hore xarey- $42,000 sandkii ay lacag la’aan say, haddii aad weli hayso gug xareeyaan canshuur cleiska • Xanaanda carruurta cin- sanadka 2008. Caawintu waxay waankeeda, tax ID-gooda iyo ka socotaa dhamaan goobaha ay magacooda intaba waa lagaa xafiisyadda ku leedahay United rabaa. wey ee degamada King County. • Iyo w a x k a s t o o a a d isleedahay saameynbey ku yee- Uma baahnid in aad ballan lan karaan canshuurtaada, xataa dhigato, laakiin maadaama ay haddii aadan hubin. goobaha qaarkood buusxaan, isku • Haddii aad rabto in la- dey inaad horey u imaato si aad u cagta kuu soo noqoneysa laguugu hesho adeega aad doonaeyso. shubo akoonkaaga, waa inaad Canshuuraha waxaa idinka keentaaa lambarka akoonkaaga. caawindoona shaqaale billash waqtigooda u hurey kuna hadla Hadii aad u baahan tahay war- luuqado kala duwan ayna sha- bixin dheeraad ah oo ku saab- haado siisay Hay;adda canshuu- san caawimaada canshuur ce- ruhu (IRS). liska, fadlan laxiriir ama wac:2- 1-1 ama1-877-211-9274 ama aad Waxaad soo qaadataa: aaladda interneetka oo cinwaan- • Foomamka W-2ga,1099ka keedu yahay: Unitedwayof king- iyo dhamaan cadeymaha he- county.org/taxhelp.

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