Patriots post season ends on one and done Page 6
Students compete for geographic supremacy Page 8
VOL. 17, NO. 3
March 6, 2015
Chamber Executive Director Imelda Dulcich to step down By Christina Corrales-Toy The Newcastle Chamber of Commerce is losing a key administrative member. Executive Director Imelda Dulcich announced publicly Feb. 11 that she is resigning from the chamber to focus more on the cli-
ents of her public relations firm. “I am privileged to have worked with so many wonderful members of the community in my work as executive director,” she said in a news release. “My joy has been working with the chamber board to help our members succeed by providing
opportunities to build connections, increase visibility and learn through our educational events.” Hired in 2012, Dulcich served in a part-time consultant role as the chief administrator and executive officer of the chamber. In her position, she implemented the policies of the board
of directors, administered the approved budget and acted as the chamber spokeswoman. Dulcich played a key role in raising the visibility of Newcastle businesses through social media promotion. She also spearheaded the welcomed transformation of the Newcastle Diamond Awards
into a glitzy evening affair. During her time with the chamber, Dulcich offered valuable training opportunities for members, and made the monthly luncheons a not-tomiss event with heralded guest See DULCICH, Page 5
Elite basketball academy to call Newcastle home By Christina Corrales-Toy Jasen Baskett and his Emerald City Basketball Academy were homeless. The elite youth basketball program that counts University of Washington stars Spencer Hawes and Isaiah Thomas among its alumni lost its Seattle headquarters in August. The academy wasn’t on the streets long, though, as Baskett, the ECBA founder, teamed up with Cindi Burton, head of the ECBA’s girls programs, to create a state-of-the-art facility in Newcastle. Pacific Courts, owned by Burton, is the academy’s new headquarters complete with offices and training areas. A large Seattle skyline mural emblazoned with the words “Home of the ECBA” brings the whole space together. “When it says home of the
By Greg Farrar
The thrill of victory Conner Small, Liberty High School senior, exults to his supporters in triumph as he wins the 170pound state 2A wrestling championship with a 7-3 win over Sedro Woolley senior Jacob Farrell Feb. 21 during Mat Classic XXVII at the Tacoma Dome. For more results, see story, Page 6.
Coal Creek Utility District approves building sale
By Christina Corrales-Toy Coal Creek Utility District commissioners unanimously approved a deal Feb. 25 to sell its former operations building to the city of Newcastle. Under the terms of the agreement, the city will pay the district $250,000 for the 129th Avenue
Southeast building appraised at about $740,000. In addition, the city will agree not to assume the utility for the next 10 years. The deal has been surrounded by controversy since the Newcastle City Council first approved it in a 4-3 vote Sept. 16. Council members approved it again, by the same vote, Jan. 20.
CCUD Commissioners Pam Martin, Ric Anderson and Doug Kunkel approved the deal after holding a required public hearing on the subject Feb. 11. Once again, former City Council members Sonny Putter, Bill Erxleben and Jean Garber used the hearing to voice their concerns about the deal.
If you go Pacific Courts q 7003 132nd Place S.E. q www.pacificbasketballcourts.com q www.allcityhoops.com
ECBA, that means something,” Baskett said. “When Cindi and I talked the very first time, I said, ‘I don’t have a home,’ but that’s not the case anymore.” And what a home it is. Pacific Courts is an impressive facility tucked in a business park behind Tapatio’s Mexican Grill. It houses two full courts, one high-school sized and the other collegiate, a weight room, offices and an enclosed half-court. Burton, who named the court See ACADEMY, Page 3
“I ask that you terminate your proposed agreement to sell the district’s former operations center to the city of Newcastle,” Putter said. “The agreement is illegal because there is little or no value to the 10-year non-assumption provision in the agreement,” he See SALE, Page 5
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Police blotter Popular pine tree
A resident reported Jan. 30 that someone cut several branches off an expensive pine tree in her yard in the 12800 block of Southeast 80th Way. The homeowner valued the damage at $500 and said she believes someone is using the pine resin to make expensive medicines.
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A Safeway manager called police Feb. 3 to report a recent string of wood pallet thefts from the store, 6911 Coal Creek Parkway S.E.
Police responded to concerned citizen reports of a man that appeared intoxicated while pushing a baby stroller near Newcastle City Hall, 12835 Newcastle Way, Feb. 11. Police found and approached the man and his young daughter in the 12500 block of Newcastle Way. Police said the man had trouble concentrating and balancing himself, and he smelled intoxicated. The man’s father, who lived nearby, arrived to collect the two as an officer interviewed his son.
Where am I? An intoxicated Renton teenager called police saying he was drunk and didn’t know how to get home Feb. 8. The teen was found near the corner of Southeast 75th Street and 136th Avenue Southeast. Police then drove him home.
A resident reported two suspects approached his car in the 7100 block of 115th Court Southeast in the early morning Feb. 1. The vehicle owner, while peering through his home’s window, whistled out toward the thieves and scared them away.
Swiped Silverado
Honda heist
A passport and about $100 worth of both Canadian and U.S. coins was stolen from a Cadillac Escalade parked at Cedar Rim Apartments, 7920 110th Ave. S.E., between Feb. 10 and 11.
A resident called police to report two males casing the 12700 block of Southeast 86th Place on Feb. 11. The men were reportedly wearing red Xfinity shirts associated with the cable company, but they weren’t carrying any materials. A neighbor called Comcast, which confirmed that no company solicitors were scheduled to be in the area at that time.
where it will sell hundreds of books for all ages in a wide-ranging selection of genres, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Newcastle Library is at 12901 Newcastle Way. The group sponsors additional library programs through its book
sales. It gladly accepts donations of gently used books throughout the year. Bring them to the library’s front desk. Learn more about the Friends of the Newcastle Library at www.facebook.com/ FriendsOfNewcastleLibrary.
A Honda parked in the 7400 block of Newcastle Golf Club Road was stolen Feb. 4, along with the headphones, Kindle and iPod left in the vehicle.
Friends group to host book sale March 7
The Friends of the Newcastle Library will host a mini book sale March 7. The group will take over the library lobby,
A 2008 Chevrolet Silverado was stolen from the Cedar Rim Apartments parking lot, 7920 110th Ave. S.E., between Feb. 10 and 11.
Passport pilfered
Xfinity or treachery?
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MARCH 6, 2015
Remembering historian Milt Swanson and his stories By Rich Crispo Whether Newcastle residents know it or not, March 29 is a significant date in the city’s history. On that day, in 1918, Ernest Milton Swanson was born. Milt, as he was known, was born and raised in Newcastle, and is singlehandedly responsible for protecting the city’s history. A founder of the Newcastle Historical Society, Swanson knew more about Newcastle’s history than anyone, because he actually lived it. Swanson died at the age of 95 in January 2014. In this month’s history feature, Newcastle City Councilman, and history buff, Rich Crispo recalls his favorite Swanson stories. I had the good fortune to know Milt and spend almost every Wednesday afternoon with him during the two years prior to his death. I was thirsting for information about our city and Milt was always willing to share his personal experiences. Milt was born in a house near the current Coal Creek Family YMCA and lived in the house at the corner of Newcastle Golf Club Road and Lakemont Boulevard since 1922, when his father rented the property from the Pacific Coast Coal Co. Milt told me many stories. Here are two of them: 1.) Did you ever wonder about the slight dips in Newcastle Golf Club Road as you drive over them? The topography along Coal Creek was very different in 1863, when coal production started, than it is today. South of the creek was a flood plain, and a series of small ravines fed ground water and rain water from the hills to the south into the creek. The first dirt road above the flood plain and along the ravines included a series of bridges
By Greg Farrar
Milt Swanson, recalling the happiness and the hardship of a lifetime lived in Newcastle, poses in a 2012 photograph, sitting among the artifacts of local history that he had collected and stored in a makeshift museum outbuilding on his property. made from cedar logs. Over time, mine waste was dumped along the road, and the ravines and the flood plain were filled in. When it came time to pave the road, the path went right over the existing bridges. Eventually the logs rotted out and the road surface dipped a bit. The next time you drive along the road, count the dips. Some are obvious while others are subtler. 2.) All of the mine tunnels had air shafts reaching to the surface. One such shaft is located where Newcastle Golf Club Road meets Lakemont Boulevard. During a heavy rainstorm in the 1960s, a stream of water came down from Cougar Mountain and crossed the covered shaft. The top covering collapsed and dammed up the hole well below the surface. As a result, the hole filled up with water. A Boeing employee driving his station wagon on the way to work tried to drive across the “puddle.” His car started falling down into the hole, but luckily hung up on the edge. He called for a wrecker and one came from Renton and stopped on
Back tracking: an ongoing series about the history of Newcastle
the other side of the puddle. The driver walked around, attached a pull chain, and proceeded to pull the wagon completely into the hole and beneath the water. The car was removed with the help of another truck. Shortly after the car was removed, the dam in the hole broke and fell into the abandoned mine far below. The hole was eventually closed using concrete, cedar logs, mine rock and asphalt. That fix has lasted for 50 years and the next time you drive that route look for the circular indentations in the road surface near the curve. Want to hear more about Milt’s stories and the history of your city? Email me at crispo@comcast.net.
Newcastle News
MARCH 6, 2015
WorkSource unveils new initiative to meet hiring needs The state’s WorkSource system is launching a new initiative connecting midlevel career professionals
Academy From Page 1 after her late father’s company, Pacific Construction Systems, has poured an immense amount of resources into the facility, transforming it from an empty warehouse into the basketball destination it is now. “My mom closed the construction company in April of last year, so it was nice to kind of let the name live on, because basketball was sort of the thing my dad and I did together,” Burton said. The courts don’t officially open until March 9, but Baskett said he’s
PAGE 3
and college graduates to jobs. The Washington Employment Security Department is funding 12 new positions statewide to help increase engagement with white-collar workers, graduates of
universities, colleges and apprenticeship programs, and professionals making career changes. They will ensure job seekers benefit from WorkSource services and ultimately are matched with employers seeking their particular
skills. The department has funded the positions through June 2017. The agency expects to have completed hiring by April. Apply at esd.wa.gov/esdjobs. Search for “Career Pathway Navigator.”
already getting positive responses from the community and local basketball programs. Pacific Courts will be the home of ECBA’s nearly 40 boys and girls teams, featuring players from across the Northwest. The academy supports athletes ages 8-17 and offers highquality instruction, along with a chance to compete in regional and national tournaments. “This is not a place for kids that don’t want to become better,” Baskett said of the academy. “We don’t care how good you are, you just have to have the right commitment. You’ve got to have the right mentality.” The Liberty High School girls basketball program is a beneficiary of ECBA’s
practices, Baskett said. Patriots head coach Carly Fromdahl and assistant Darnell Taylor have experience coaching in the academy. Curtis Terry, last year’s Liberty girls coach, literally grew up in the ECBA, training with Baskett since he was 14. “I train the Liberty girls program in the fall,” Baskett said. “We have a little bit of an influence on Liberty High School
girls. They’re friends of the program.” Pacific Courts isn’t just ECBA’s home, though; Burton said the Newcastle community is just as welcome. Burton plans to offer tiny hoops classes, jazzercise, Zumba, pickle ball tournaments, open gyms and more. People will also be able to rent the space. “We’ll have stuff all day long for all different types of groups,” she said.
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FINANCIAL FOCUS What Do Low Oil Prices Mean for Investors? Article 6 – Jan. 26, 2015
A
s you’ve no doubt noticed, your trips to the gas station have been a lot more pleasant these past several months. There’s not much doubt that low oil prices have been welcome to you as a driver. But when oil is cheap, is that good for you as an investor?
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There’s no clear-cut answer. But consider the following effects of low oil prices: • Positive impact on economy — When you spend less at the gas pump, relative to recent years, what will you do with your savings? Like most people, you’ll probably spend most of it on goods and services. If you multiply the amount of your increased spending by the millions of other Americans who are also saving money on gas, you can see that you and your fellow consumers are likely adding billions of dollars to the economy. Typically, a strong economy is also good for the financial markets — and for the people who invest in them. • Different results for different sectors — Different sectors within the financial markets may respond in different ways to low oil prices, even if the overall effect is generally positive. For example, businesses such as consumer goods companies and auto manufacturers may respond favorably to cheaper oil and gas. But the picture might be quite a bit different for energy companies. You could spend a lot of time and effort trying to adjust your investment portfolio in response to low oil prices. In fact, you may well want to consult with your financial professional to determine which moves might make sense for your individual situation. Yet there’s actually a bigger lesson to be learned here: Don’t overreact to temporary developments. The recent decline in oil prices has certainly had an economic impact, but no one can predict how long these prices will stay low or what other factors may arise that would affect the financial markets. That’s why you can’t reconfigure your portfolio based on particular events, whatever they may be — oil price drops, interest-rate fluctuations, political squabbles at home, natural disasters in faraway lands, and so on. If you can keep from being overly influenced by specific events, you may be able to gain at least two key benefits: First, by not making trades constantly in reaction to the headlines of the day, you can avoid piling up heavy fees and commissions —costs that can reduce the return rate on your investments. Second, you’ll find that if you aren’t always thinking about what’s going on in the world today, you can focus your investment efforts more intensely on where you want to be tomorrow. The most successful investors set long-term goals and don’t focus on factors they cannot control, such as oil prices, interest-rate changes or other economic events. Instead, these investors make adjustments, as necessary, to accommodate changes in their goals as well as other changes, such as revisions in tax laws — but they basically stick to their same approach for the long term. So be aware of low oil prices, but don’t get so “pumped” about them that you sludge up your consistent investment strategy — because that strategy has the energy to keep you moving toward your important objectives. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Opinion
PAGE 4
Editorial
Notes From Newcastle
It’s your city; get involved in decisions
Volunteers deserve their due
Sue Stronk. Larry Johnson. Jessaca Jacobson. Sonny Putter. With the exception of the last name, you’ve likely never heard of these people. But make no mistake, the Newcastle City Council knows who they are, at least they should. They are examples of just a few Newcastle residents who have come to at least one council meeting in the past year to voice their opinions. They are, essentially, examples of democracy in action, a far too rare scene witnessed in the perpetually empty Newcastle council chambers. Stronk and Johnson are vocal Olympus residents speaking out against Puget Sound Energy’s power-upgrade project; Jacobson is a Newport Woods resident who voiced a community’s concerns about a new apartment complex; and Putter, a former Newcastle mayor, is the constant presence at recent meetings challenging the council’s Coal Creek Utility District purchase-sale agreement. More importantly, though, they are all residents getting involved in the place they call home and, hopefully, working to affect decisions. Whether they are successful or not remains to be seen, but at least they are taking a stand for what they believe in, something we’d like to see more of from residents at meetings. Remember, your government leaders — city, county, state and federal — work for you. If you want to have a stake in this city, take a stand. Attend meetings and public hearings to weigh in on decisions.
Chamber director has big shoes to fill
We’re saddened to hear that Newcastle Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Imelda Dulcich will step down from her post. Dulcich has single-handedly raised the profile of the local chamber, providing valuable social media promotion for its businesses and serving as a friendly community connector. Her position was only part-time, but it was clear that Dulcich dedicated more effort and energy than her duties required. Dulcich’s ability to recruit top-notch speakers made the chamber luncheons must-attend events. Because of her, the Newcastle business community got to hear from the likes of U.S. Rep. Adam Smith, King County Sheriff John Urquhart and King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg. One of Dulcich’s greatest undertakings was the transformation of the Diamond Awards into a lavish evening affair. She made the community awards feel special again, and we hope that continues. Though we know the Newcastle resident won’t suddenly disappear from the community, chamber events certainly won’t be the same without her leading them. Like any good behind-the-scenes facilitator, Dulcich doesn’t care for the spotlight. Whenever possible, she heaped praise on the chamber members and the board. But the reality is, Dulcich was a big reason the chamber has felt so welcoming, personable and connected recently. Whoever replaces her has some big shoes to fill.
Newcastle news Published since 1999 by
Is s a q u a h Pre s s , In c . P.O. Box 1328 Issaquah, WA 98027 Phone: 392-6434 q Fax: 392-1695
MARCH 6, 2015
The city of Newcastle honored a group Feb. 26 that far too often goes unnoticed — volunteers. Each year, volunteers devote countless hours to city events. It is volunteers that help plan summer activities, care and advocate for the city’s vast trail network and protect Newcastle’s history. About 50 volunteers and summer event sponsor representatives gathered at The Golf Club at Newcastle Feb. 26, where they were treated to snacks, an orchestra and a personal thank you from Newcastle Mayor Steve Buri and City Manager Rob Wyman. Volunteerism is a big part of what makes Newcastle one of the best small cities in the country. So, here’s a special shout out to some of the groups and people that willingly offer their time to better the city: q Community Activities Commission — Diane Lewis, Linda Newing, Zaquis Ross, Russ
Letter Building purchase shouldn’t be an issue The Newcastle City Council recently voted to purchase a maintenance and storage building from the Coal Creek Utility District. In exchange for receiving a discounted price, the city agreed to a 10-year moratorium on the potential assumption of direct responsibility for water and sewer services. Several current and former members of the City Council have registered vocal objections. They argue that the agreement is (a) illegal because it encumbers future councils, (b) unwise because it takes a reasonable option off the table and (c) it’s an unnecessary expense. Limitations on future council action are neither illegal nor unusual. The city occupies office space under a long-term lease. Commitments to purchase and maintain our parks and to upgrade Coal Creek Parkway affected budgets over several years. Any issuance of municipal
Segner, Jim Price and Victoria Sandoval, and past members Angela Ursino and Victoria Hupf q Planning Commission — Karin Blakely, Elizabeth Thompson, Christina Orville Corrales-Toy McDonald, Jon Simpson, Rob Lemmon, Allen Dauterman and Thomas Magers q Boy Scout Troops 499, 577 and 626 q Student volunteers from Hazen High, Liberty High, Maywood Middle and McKnight Middle schools q Newcastle Trails — Garry Kampen, Peggy Price q Newcastle Weed Warriors — Grace Stiller q Newcastle Historical Society q Little Rhody Park neighborbonds requires repayment over an extended period. And the city attorney (an actual lawyer) approved the purchase. It is true that the agreement delays a potential city takeover of the utilities. But as I understand, this possibility has been discussed and debated since incorporation, with no resolution in sight. The moratorium will provide more time to consider what is truly best for the city. Finally, while the purchase of the building involves a cash outlay, it is not an expense. It is simply a conversion of assets from cash to real estate. If and when the city found itself short of funds, the building could be sold and our coffers restored. And since the negotiated purchase price for the property is well below what the parties believe to be its market value, the city could pocket the difference as a windfall. I understand that this is an election year, and that potential candidates are in search of controversial issues on which to base their campaigns. This should not be one. John Gordon Newcastle
hood group q Newcastle Days car show planning committee q Earth Day planning committee q Newcastle Chamber of Commerce Board The event also honored the following sponsors that contributed to city events over the summer: q AvalonBay — Brian Fritz q Waste Management — David Della q Regency Newcastle — John Kotalick q The Golf Club at Newcastle — David Uchida q Coal Creek Family YMCA — Sara Biancofiori q Boeing Employees Credit Union — Molly Andrews q AT&T — Carol Tagayun q UW/Valley Medical Center — Liz Nolan q Animal Hospital of Newport Hills — Kent Thomazin q HomeStreet Bank – Travis Monen q KeyBank — Jimmy Ng q Apple Physical Therapy — Randy Johnson
Public Meetings From sidewalk installation projects to snow removal to property tax collection, decisions made by officials at a local level have the potential to impact your daily life. Get involved. Provide feedback. Make a difference. Let leaders know what’s on your mind to shape a better Newcastle at these March meetings: q The City Council will have a regularly scheduled meeting at 7 p.m. March 17 at City Hall, 12835 Newcastle Way, Suite 200. q The Community Activities Commission is scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. March 12 at City Hall. q The Planning Commission will meet at 7 p.m. March 18 at City Hall.
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Newcastle News
MARCH 6, 2015
Dulcich From Page 1 speakers such as U.S. Rep. Adam Smith, sports radio personality Bill Swartz, King County Sheriff John Urquhart and Q13 Fox News’ David Rose. After announcing her decision at the Feb. 11 chamber luncheon, Dulcich received a standing ovation from the attendees. The chamber board accepted her resignation with regret, according to the news release. “Imelda’s unique brand of social media talents and personal touch strengthened and deepened the chamber’s role within the region,” past chamber President Peter Zevenbergen said. “Imelda leverages her insight and
Sale From Page 1 continued. “It is certainly not worth half a million dollars. Your actions would be in direct violation of state law.” Putter further contended that the deal was a “blatant attempt to evade the letter and intent,” of the law. Garber echoed Putter’s sentiments, saying that no real property should be sold for less than its value, according to state law. She added that if the city were to assume it, Newcastle would be a capable steward and employer of the utility. Both Garber and Erxleben noted that the non-assumption agreement was only of value to the
wisdom to make profound impacts on all her work. She will be missed.” The board Imelda started layDulcich ing out a plan to find Dulcich’s replacement at its annual retreat Feb. 12. Sara Biancofiori, current chamber president, added that Dulcich has agreed to work with the board to provide continuity and easy transfer of work for the new executive director. “There are many exciting things happening in 2015 for our chamber. While I’m sad to see Imelda go, I know that together with our board, we will continue to build on our successes,” Biancofiori said. “Because of Imelda, the Newcastle
Chamber board welcomes new members The chamber added three new members to its board in February. Local photographer Jackie Steinke and Newcastle Library staff members Vicki Heck and Donna Day join Biancofiori (Coal Creek Family YMCA), Zevenbergen (Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation), Nick Sooy (Farmers Insurance), Mary VonRanker (CedarMist Healing Arts), Hayley Stowe (Regency Newcastle), David Uchida (The Golf Club at Newcastle), Travis Monen (HomeStreet Bank) and Karin Blakely (Waddell & Reed) on the board.
three commissioners who hoped to keep their jobs. If the city assumed the utility, the commission board would be eliminated. CCUD commissioners Anderson and Kunkel took offense to that notion, with Anderson saying he was appalled someone would suggest he’s just in it to protect his position. “My first goal is to serve the ratepayers,” he said. Anderson and Kunkel ultimately decided to table the final decision until Martin, who was absent from the meeting, could weigh in. They resumed consideration of the agreement Feb. 25, when they approved it. During that meeting, the utility district’s special legal counsel, Andy Maron, offered responses to many of the concerns,
ultimately telling the commissioners, “You’re on solid legal ground,” to move forward. He also provided a list of cities that have nonassumption agreements, including Bothell, Mukilteo, Kirkland and Issaquah. Before unanimously approving the agreement, the commissioners offered their support of the utility and its staff, all agreeing that it was a “win-win” deal for both parties. Even with both sides formally approving the purchase-sale agreement, Putter said he and the former council members will continue to fight it through formal complaints and possible litigation. “This is certainly not going to be the end of our effort to shed light on this issue,” he said.
Chamber of Commerce has seen tremendous growth of our visibility in the region, and we will continue that trend into the future.”
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Sports
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MARCH 6, 2015
Hazen, Liberty swimmers medal By Christina Corrales-Toy
The Hazen High School boys swim and dive team didn’t win a single event at the 2015 3A state swimming championship Feb. 20-21. Yet, the Highlanders’ top-to-bottom depth ensured the team had a spot on the podium when the meet came to a close Feb. 21 at Federal Way’s King County Aquatic Center.
Hazen swimmers collected personal bests on the way to the squad’s fourth-place finish, edging out league-rival Kennedy by four points to win a team trophy. Senior Connor Broughton was the Highlanders’ top finisher, earning a second-place medal in the 500-yard freestyle with a time of 4 minutes, 40.07 seconds. See MEDALS, Page 7
By Greg Farrar
Conner Small runs toward his dad Bill to leap high into his outstretched arms for a hug after winning the 170pound state 2A wrestling championship Feb. 21 during Mat Classic XXVII at the Tacoma Dome.
Liberty’s Conner Small wins state title; two Hazen wrestlers medal By Neil Pierson and Christina Corrales-Toy Conner Small didn’t achieve the dream of a lifetime on his own. The Liberty High School senior wrestler spent countless hours working toward a state championship with his father Bill. The process was a long and sometimes painful one — Small finished fifth as a sophomore and third as a junior — but it was ultimately rewarding as he captured the Class 2A state crown at 170 pounds to close the Mat
Cherelle Demps, Liberty High School senior guard, is fouled by East Valley’s Hannah Burland (4) after stealing the ball from Elle Burland (12) during the third quarter of their Feb. 28 Hardwood Classic 2A regional basketball game. By Greg Farrar
Classic XXVII, Feb. 20-21 at the Tacoma Dome. “Surreal” was the first word out of Small’s mouth after he defeated Sedro Woolley’s Jacob Farrell, 7-3, in the championship bout. He then spoke about the help he received from his dad. “I can’t even explain what me and him have gone through,” Small said. “I owe everything to him. He’s been there since day one. I couldn’t ask for a more supportive father in my life.” Small, who will compete at Arizona State
University next year, rolled through his final Mat Classic with convincing decisions in his first three matches. It got tougher against Farrell, however, as Small held a tenuous 4-2 lead with two minutes left. “We’ve been worried about this guy for a while,” Small said. “We’ve known he’s been my target all year, and he proved it out on the mat. He’s a great competitor. I was just there tonight. My head was in it, I knew what I wanted to do and I executed.”
Romney Noel was close — oh, so very close. The Liberty senior needed points late in his 182-pound semifinal match against SedroWoolley’s Quinten Dickman-Roppel. He was able to escape with 35 seconds left, and had his opponent on the verge of a takedown that would’ve tied the score. But Dickman-Roppel didn’t go down easily, and stayed on his feet long enough that Noel couldn’t complete the See WRESTLING, Page 7
By Greg Farrar
Nolan Hoover, Hazen High School senior, races to win his 100-yard backstroke race during the Highlanders’ Jan. 20 swim meet against Liberty.
Patriots’ season comes to a close after regionals loss By Christina Corrales-Toy Liberty High School senior Cherelle Demps’ plan of attack appeared simple in the team’s Feb. 28 regional playoff game. Drive toward the basket, draw the foul and sink the free throws. She executed that sequence over and over, while opponent East Valley struggled to put a
stop to it. Demps, in what would be her final high-school basketball game, erupted for a game-high 26 points, 16 of which came at the free-throw line. It wouldn’t be enough, however, as the Patriots fell to the team from Spokane, 71-50, in the loser-out playoff game at Renton High School.
Liberty was just one win away from qualifying for the 2A state championship at the Yakima Valley SunDome. “It wasn’t our best performance at the end of the day, and I think they all felt that,” Liberty coach Carly Fromdahl said. “We don’t have room for that See PATRIOTS, Page 7
Newcastle News
MARCH 6, 2015
Medals
Wrestling
From Page 6
From Page 6
Broughton picked up another individual medal after finishing sixth in the 200-yard individual medley. Hazen junior Sergio Licea also won two individual medals, placing eighth in the 200-yard freestyle and third in the 100-yard butterfly. Teammate Derek Wei also placed fifth in the 100yard butterfly. Broughton, Licea, Wei and senior Nolan Hoover teamed up to take fourth in the 200-yard medley relay and fifth in the 400yard freestyle relay. Hoover did not pick up a medal, but did win the consolation finals in the 100-yard backstroke. Wei also won the consolation final of the 100-yard breaststroke.
move inbounds. The SedroWoolley senior then got his own takedown and advanced to the final with a 7-3 victory. Mental toughness allowed Noel to recover quickly, as he won his next two matches and finished third in the state. “It’s hard to battle back after a loss, and I’m proud of myself for doing that,” Noel said. Noel held off Quincy’s Cade Wallace, 5-3, and then took some tough shots from Washington’s Jacob Nelson in his placing match. Nelson was trailing in the third, and he slammed Noel out of bounds in an effort to get points. The move wasn’t dirty, but Noel had to fight through pain the rest of the way before getting a pin with 16 seconds left. “Wrestling is the toughest thing I’ve ever done,” Noel said. “It’s taught me how to work, how to fight back after getting popped in the face. Wrestling teaches you how
Liberty’s Nick Klatt is a state champion Liberty senior Nick Klatt ended his high school
Patriots From Page 6 in the lineup at this point in the season. Can’t have games where we drop the ball, or we aren’t on top of our Ps and Qs.” Liberty trailed 16-10 after the first quarter, but crawled back in the second to actually go into halftime with a 29-28 lead. It was an early thirdquarter, 12-point unanswered East Valley run that eventually sunk the Patriots, though. Demps was the Patriots’ clear star of the game, shooting 16-of-19 at the line, and grabbing six
By Greg Farrar
Nick Klatt, Liberty High School senior, swims his 500yard freestyle race during the state 2A swim championships Feb. 21 in Federal Way. swimming career as a state champion, winning the 2A 200-yard freestyle Feb. 21. Klatt finished third in preliminaries the day before, but surged to the top spot in the finals with a time of 1:42.12. He also picked up a medal in the 500-yard freestyle (third, 4:41.60). All three of the Patriots’ relay teams earned medals. Klatt, Joel Tinseth, Andy DeVogel and Russell Fitzgerald opened the meet with an eighth-place finish in the 200-yard medley
relay; Tinseth, Fitzgerald, Jacob Winter and Brian Duffner took seventh in the 200-yard freestyle relay; and Klatt, Winter, Fitzgerald and Kyle Larson finished eighth in the 400yard freestyle relay. Fitzgerald also finished seventh in the consolation final of the 50-yard freestyle, while freshman Jacob Hepp took seventh in the consolation final of the 500-yard freestyle. Overall, Liberty finished 10th in the 2A team standings.
rebounds, two assists and three steals. “She did exactly what we needed her to do,” Fromdahl said. “It’s tough when you don’t have the supporting cast there giving it what she’s giving it, but I mean what a great player, so athletic.” East Valley had three double-digit scorers, while Demps was the only Patriot that found the net more than nine times. Demps’ sister, Danielle, had the next-highest scoring total at seven, followed by sophomore Samantha Kelderman, who had six. Sarah Bliesner, Avery Granberg and Sydney Argosino each added three points. Devin Anderson rounded out the scoring
with two points. Liberty came into regionals as the District 2/3 No. 1 seed, after the Patriots won their district tournament. “Things just started clicking,” Fromdahl said of the Liberty postseason. “Everything that we had been teaching them started molding together toward the end of the season.” The Patriots opened eyes across the state with a 62-52 win over No. 3 ranked White River at districts. Cherelle Demps starred in that game, too, collecting 30 points. “She’s really worked her tail off all season, watching film to get better,” Fromdahl said of
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Cherelle. “And I think the stats prove that she’s grown from the beginning of the season to now when we needed her the most.” The team says goodbye to five seniors — Danielle and Cherelle Demps, Granberg, Bliesner and Devin Anderson — but first-year coach Fromdahl said the future is bright for Liberty basketball. “We’re only going to get better from here,” she Year-round said. “We have a pretty Memberships deep bench, so letting Available! them witness those five seniors and the impres~~~~ sions they’ve leftPool on from Covered my underclassmen, I’m October through May excited for the next season to see where~~~~ they’ll grow Swim from here.”Lessons start
PAGE 7
By Greg Farrar
Raven Svenson (left), 155-pound Hazen High School sophomore, wrestles Charliann McCall, of Centralia. to be a warrior. You’re all alone out there, so it’s a good life lesson.” Liberty senior Joanna Moreira capped her career with a fifth-place finish at 135 pounds in the girls’ division. Hazen wrestlers win two medals Hazen High School qualified five wrestlers for the Mat Classic, and two finished the weekend as medalists. The Highlanders’ highest finisher was sophomore Raven Svenson, who finished fifth in the girls’ 155pound division. Svenson improved upon her 2014 performance, when she placed seventh at state. “She sealed the deal with a strong performance in her medal match finishing the match with a textbook throw to a fall,” Hazen coach Rory Magana wrote in an email. Hazen junior Nik
Vargas was the other medalist, placing eighth in the boys’ 3A 132pound division. Vargas dropped his openinground match, but fought back through the lower bracket to secure a spot on the podium. Magana praised Vargas’ performance, saying the junior wrestled with “fundamentally-sound technique.” Both Vargas and Svenson are expected to return next year. Senior Anthony Scott (106), sophomore Tyson Mowrey (113) and senior Derek Nichols (138) didn’t place, but all three “fought hard and wrestled tough,” Magana said. Scott made the state meet in what was his first year as a wrestler, Mowrey lost to his division’s third-place finisher, while Nichols got caught in one of the most competitive brackets in the 3A tournament, Magana said.
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MARCH 6, 2015
Schools crown geography bee champs By Christina Corrales-Toy Ever since he was little, which, admittedly, wasn’t too long ago, Apollo Elementary School fourthgrader Arthur Gwozdz often found himself staring at a globe. “I don’t know why,” he said, fully aware that it sounds a bit unusual. “I just like to do it.” Idle time spent spinning and exploring the world from the comfort of his Newcastle home was certainly not a waste, though, as evidenced by the 10-year-old’s victory in Apollo’s 2015 geography bee Jan. 13. Arthur was the last one standing, defeating fifthgrader Henry Nguyen in the competition’s final round. It wasn’t easy, Arthur
admitted, and he certainly looked nervous as he scribbled answers on a white board. “I was thinking, ‘I’m going to lose at any moment.’ I mean, I’m going against fifth-graders,” he exclaimed. The contest’s 10 finalists gathered in the school cafeteria in front of an audience of their classmates, parents and a distinguished guest, Issaquah City Councilwoman Mary Lou Pauly, who was a judge. Apollo Principal Susan Mundell moderated the event, asking questions from the National Geographic Society. As students answered incorrectly, they were told one by one to leave the stage. “I’m very proud of you for taking risks like that and challenging your-
selves,” Mundell said as contestants exited the competition. Arthur said he studied 20 minutes a day for two weeks. He will now have an opportunity to take a written test, with a chance to qualify for the state championship. The other Apollo competitors were fifth-graders Sanjana Addanki, Joel Kinney, Henry Nguyen, Eyan Pell, Ryan Reamy, Serena Sherwood, and fourth-graders Garrison Hanses, Prachi Sangani and Zefanya Sihotang. Two-time champ Newcastle Elementary School fifth-grader Pravir Chugh felt the pressure. He knew that coming into the school’s fourth annual geography bee Jan. 23, he was the favorite. After
all, he took the top spot at last year’s competition. “Oh, man, I felt all the pressure, especially during the championship round,” he said. Pravir made it two wins in a row with his victory over classmate Leon Bahn in the final round. The fifth-grader said he was nervous, even though he had last year’s experience to build upon. It helped that he already knew the competition and question formats, Pravir said. “This year was definitely harder,” he said. “Leon was a great competitor.” Pravir said he spent less time studying for this year’s competition. His parents asked him questions for about 15 minutes every day for two months. Newcastle Elementary Principal Richard Mellish
Tracey Naylor takes over at Hazelwood By Christina Corrales-Toy When Hazelwood Elementary School students returned from winter break, a new face greeted them at the door. Tracey Naylor officially
P ets
SponSored
by
began her duties as the school’s new principal Jan. 5, replacing interim-Principal Judy Busch. Busch came out of retirement while the district found a permanent replacement for Principal Cindy
of the
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Suzie is a 3-year-old blue-andwhite American Staffordshire mix. She’s Suzie a strong girl with a love for treats and belly scratches. Suzie would be the perfect companion for an active adopter who would enjoy her rambunctious and playful nature. Suzie is staying in one of our foster homes, but it’s easy to set up a time to meet her. Just contact the Seattle Humane Society at 425-649-7563 or adoption@ seattlehumane.org.
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This adorable baby girl is Wendy, a 1-year-old brown-andwhite tabby Wendy who will work her magic on you! She’s friendly and curious and quite a love. Wendy enjoys chasing laser dots and feather toys on a string. Because of her fun nature and sweet personality, she’ll make a great companion kitty. Come into the Seattle Humane Society today. She’ll have you signing those adoption papers in no time!
To adopt these or other animals, call the Humane Society for Seattle/King County at 641-0080 or go to www.seattlehumane.org. All animals are spayed/ neutered, microchipped and vaccinated, and come with 30 days of pet health insurance and a certificate for a vet exam.
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Farnsworth, now at Meadow Crest Early Learning Center. Naylor, a graduate of Columbia University Tracey and Naylor American University, comes to Hazelwood from Campbell Hill Elementary School, where she served as the assistant principal. Prior to serving in the Renton School District, she taught in Arizona and Louisiana as well as served
as an instructional coach, principal in residence and director of instruction in Louisiana, New York and Washington, D.C., respectively. Naylor took time to answer a few Newcastle News questions. What made you decide to take the job at Hazelwood Elementary School? I have spent my professional career in anticipation of leading a school. I believe that Hazelwood’s staff, students and parents are ready to support a school that ensures high levels of achievement, college and career readiness, and equity and access for all. How has your background prepared you for this position? As a former teacher, instructional coach, resident principal and director of instruction, I led several key initiatives, including building and sustaining strong highly-capable programs, developing highly effective instructional models to support English language learners, creating high quality STEM programs rooted in scientific inquiry, constructing new curricula models aligned with the Common Core State Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards (pre-K-12), and shifting instruction to be in greater alignment with the knowledge, skills and
Pravir Chugh
Arthur Gwozdz
Newcastle Elementary
Apollo Elementary
moderated the event, while Newcastle City Manager Rob Wyman and city community activities liaison Wendy Kirchner served as judges. Pravir, like Arthur, will now have an opportunity to take a written test, with a chance to qualify for the state championship. The winner of the state championship wins a trip to Washington, D.C., to compete in the National
Geographic Bee. The national winner receives a $50,000 scholarship, a lifetime subscription to National Geographic magazine, a Galápagos trip and $500 cash. The other Newcastle competitors were Daniel Flash, Rachel Hoki, Alex Lamtagne, Dhruv Naik, Morgan Ringwood, Jacob Rubenstein, Hunter Scheppat and Jensen Wolff.
dispositions needed in the 21st century. Additionally, through my graduate studies at Columbia University’s Teachers College, along with my residency in New York City, I had an opportunity to spend time learning best practices and networking with school leaders from the highest performing schools across America.
plan. I intend to continue strengthening relationships through this planning process as we collaboratively partner with Hazelwood parents to craft our key initiatives. By connecting various aspects of our greater community into the strategic plan, we can leverage our collective strengths and expand opportunities in service of all students and their future.
Why did you decide to go into the education field? After college, I applied and was accepted to Teach for America, a program that required a two-year commitment to teach in the nation’s highest need schools. This ignited a lifelong passion for education, school leadership and transformational change. What excites you most about working at Hazelwood? The potential for expanded excellence! Hazelwood’s staff, parents and students are innovative, eager to learn and relentlessly committed. I am truly thrilled to partner with this extraordinary team as we identify the key levers needed for educational excellence in the 21st century. How do you plan to continue strengthening relationships between the school and the community? With new standards and expectations, a partnership between Hazelwood, the city of Newcastle and the city of Renton will be critical as we begin to craft and implement our new school improvement
What are your goals for the rest of the school year? My goal is to continue to learn about the Hazelwood community by connecting directly with staff, students and families. I hope to leverage all stakeholders in the creation of our theory of action and school vision. What are your favorite activities outside of school? My husband grew up and graduated from Bellevue High School, so he enjoys showing me around Washington and planning various expeditions to the variety of museums, parks, restaurants and theaters that adorn this area. I am a member of the Junior League of Seattle and treasure my opportunities to serve the greater Seattle area through my work as a trained volunteer. I also love playing basketball, watching movies and spending time outdoors. P.S. My husband and I love brunch at The Golf Club at Newcastle! The view is extraordinary.
Newcastle News
MARCH 6, 2015
Laughing all the way What goes, and what stays When you drive over the hill toward 405 and see the VMAC, do you still feel blue blue about the Seahawks? Pat Detmer Fear not. There was another “Boom” in Seattle before the “Legion of.” It was the “Sonic Boom,” and I signed up for a decade of fanaticism. I’d moved to Seattle in ‘72 from small-town Illinois, where basketball was king, where winters were so harsh and bleak that the best option for entertainment was to be packed into frigid cinder-block gyms in the dead of January to watch sons of farmers play the game. I transferred my basketball fan punchcard to Seattle and started listening to Bob Blackburn on the radio, and daily scanned the sports pages for stories about the SuperSonics in all three newspapers. Yes. Three. I was ecstatic when they began to win and make the playoffs, and I committed myself completely to the journey. In my saved box of Sonic history are newspaper clippings, a poem of mine that had been published (“Goodbye, Marvin; No Hard Feelings!”) and a front-page picture of myself and friends holding up a banner during the Denver playoff series (“We Got ‘em by the Nuggets!”). I had absolutely no business spending my hard-earned money on season tickets, but I did it anyway, investing in them with my best friend, a school teacher who somehow managed to convince Sonic management that she was a professional photographer, so I would hang with her courtside pre-game, and be admitted to downtown building roofs open only to the press, perfect vantage points for the post-season parades. I still have the 8-by-10 black-and-white glossies from those. I was employed in a highly seasonal industry at the time, and days off during busy times were verboten unless somebody in your immediate fam-
ily died. I was a prototypical German Catholic uber-worker, but in spite of that, when the Sonic siren called out to me, I couldn’t resist. I marched into the general manager’s office and said, “Fire me if you have to, but I’m going to the parade.” Later there were more connections to the team: My sister briefly dated Jack Sikma, and I helped P.I. sports reporter Blaine Johnson write a book about the Bill Russell years called “What’s Happenin’”. Besides the newspaper clips, there’s a gold “World Champs” T-shirt, a hardbound NBA Sonics Yearbook and a vinyl LP featuring “exciting playby-play highlights, interviews, Sonic songs and the post-season celebration!”... historical artifacts that I’ve faithfully retained,
and like my memories, easy to access. Except for the “Sonic songs.” I don’t remember those at all. So if you believe you’ll never get over the Super Bowl, think again. Consider my Sonics experience. Today I recall only the fun, the highs, the shared insanity, the car horns honking in the night, waiting in the rain for playoff tickets with other zealots, all the good stuff; and I remember absolutely nothing of the losses, none of the lows, the disappointments, not even the pain of losing the Sonics altogether. And just think: The Seahawks have only begun. You can reach Pat Detmer — who may fire up the phonograph to hear those Sonic songs — at patdetmer@ aol.com.
Recycle, reuse clothing through new Threadcycle King County and Seattle Public Utilities have launched Threadcycle, a joint effort to reduce the estimated 40,000 tons of clothes, shoes and linens that area residents and businesses send to landfills each year. The campaign aims to educate the public about the wide range of conditions in which those items are accepted. To give new life to these materials and decrease the
PAGE 9 amount of textiles that end up in landfills, the Threadcycle campaign is partnering with nine organizations and businesses to educate the public. Campaign partners who accept clothes, shoes and linens in any condition (except wet, mildewed or contaminated with hazardous materials) are Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, Seattle Goodwill, Northwest Center, Salvation Army Family Thrift Stores, SightConnection, TexGreen, USAgain and Value Village.
The local Value Village is at 5530 E. Lake Sammamish Parkway S.E. Learn more about Threadcycle at www.kingcounty.gov/threadcycle.
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SpaDay A FREE Event to Treat Yourself Like the Special Person You Are Saturday, March 14, 10 AM – 1 PM Lake Wilderness Lodge 22500 SE 248th St., Maple Valley Set aside a few hours just for you for wellness, relaxation and a little pampering at GLOW’s Spa Day at tranquil Lake Wilderness Lodge. Not a GLOW member yet? It’s not too late to join and enjoy the Spa Day fun! In fact, you can even invite a friend to join and come to Spa Day together. To register for GLOW, VMC’s FREE women’s health and wellness program, visit valleymed.org/glow. You’ll be emailed invitations to upcoming events. Questions? Call 425.271.GLOW (4569).
Community
PAGE 10
Events Newcastle Chamber of Commerce monthly lunch, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. March 11, Tapatio Mexican Grill, 6920 Coal Creek Parkway S.E., learn about Waste Management in our community with David Della, $20/ members, $25/nonmembers, register at newcastle-chamber. org Newcastle Trails board meeting, free and open to the public, 7-9 p.m. March 6, Regency Newcastle, 7454 Newcastle Golf Club Road, newcastletrails.org
Public meetings All city public meetings are at City Hall, 12835 Newcastle Way, Suite 200. Call 649-4444. q Community Activity Commission — 7-8 p.m. March 12 q Economic and Community Development Committee — 4 p.m. March 17 q City Council — 7 p.m. March 17 and 31 q Planning Commission — 7-8 p.m. March 18 Newcastle Trails board, first Monday of the month, 7 p.m., Regency Newcastle, 7454 Newcastle Golf Club Road, www. newcastletrails.org
MARCH 6, 2015
IN THE SPOTLIGHT Newcastle Library to screen documentary ‘Girl Rising’ The Newcastle Library will host a screening of “Girl Rising,” a global documentary featuring the strength of human spirit and the power of education, from 1-3 p.m. March 21. The film spotlights the lives of three young girls from Haiti, Peru and Afghanistan, showing how education impacts their lives. Community leaders, including members of the Newcastle Youth Community Engagement board, will join the screening and participate in a discussion. Annie Liu, from Charles Schwab, the film sponsor, will introduce “Girl Rising,” as well as participate in the community discussion immediately following the screening. All members of the community, ages 13 and older, are encouraged to join the screening and engage in a community discussion to talk about what was learned from the film, share stories and explore ways to make Newcastle a better place. By Martha Adams, provided by GIRL RISING Refreshments will be provided by the Friends Gina Nemirofsky takes video of a group of school girls in Haiti for the documentary ‘Girl Rising.’ of the Newcastle Library. The Newcastle Library The Newcastle Library will host a screening and discussion of the film March 21. is at 12901 Newcastle Way.
YMCA The Coal Creek Family YMCA, 13750 Newcastle Golf Club Road, has regular family programs for all ages. Get a complete schedule or register for
classes by calling 282-1500 or go to www.coalcreekymca.org. Kids 5K training, ages 5 and older, six-week sessions throughout the year, $35/facility and program members, $70/ community members
Parents Night Out at the Y, ages 3-10, 5-9 p.m. March 14, $30/facility members, $40/program members Senior Pinochle, 10 a.m. to noon Tuesdays and Thursdays Teen Drop In, times vary,
drop in after school for some community time Family Badminton, 5:156:45 p.m. Fridays and 8-11:45 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays See CALENDAR, Page 11
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Guest Speaker: David Della, Public Sector Manager Pacific Northwest at Waste Management March 11 @ 11:00 am - 12:30 pm at Tapatio’s Mexican Grill. $20.25 www.Newcastle-Chamber.org For more information: Imeldadulcich@newcastle-chamber.org
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Newcastle News
MARCH 6, 2015
Calendar From Page 10 Table Tennis, 11 am. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays, 7:159:15 p.m. Wednesdays, 4-9 p.m. Fridays, and 2:30-5 p.m. Sundays Adult Pickleball, 7-8:30 a.m. Mondays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fridays, and noon to 3 p.m. Sundays Family Pickleball, 3-4 p.m. Sundays Tween Dodgeball, 7-8 p.m. Tuesdays Open Basketball, times vary Monday through Friday, free to facility members Open Volleyball, ages 14 and older, 8-9:45 p.m. Thursdays Power Volleyball, 8-9:45 p.m. Tuesdays, free to facility members Youth Tae Kwon Do, ages 5 and older, 5:15-6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, $40/facility members, $60/community member, $35 uniform fee Kids 5K training, 9 a.m. Saturdays, $35/facility members, $60/community ‘Let’s Move,’ youth fitness classes, ages 7-11, times vary, $40/facility members, $70/community members Swimming lessons, ages 3 and older, $35 to $126, call for age group times and dates Chili Fun Run, 7:30 a.m. March 7, $30 Teen Leadership Board, 6:30 p.m. March 25
Library events The Newcastle Library is at 12901 Newcastle Way. The fol-
lowing programs are offered: SHIBA counseling, 10 a.m. Fridays, March 6 and April 3 Work Area, open to everyone, 3-5:30 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays Young Toddler Story Times, ages 1-2, 10:15 a.m. Mondays Toddler Story Times, ages 2-3, 11:30 a.m. Mondays Computer class: ‘One-on-One Assistance,’ 6:30-8 p.m. Mondays Study Zone, grades K-12, 4-6 p.m. Tuesdays and 3:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesdays ‘Talk Time,’ practice your English conversation skills, 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays Infant Story Times, ages 0-1, 10:15 a.m. Wednesdays Preschool Story times, ages 3-5, 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays Friends of Newcastle Library Mini Book Sale, find literary gems at bargain prices, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 7 Salmon Motifs Printmaking Art Workshop, ages 8 and older, 10:30 a.m., March 7, preregister at http://bit. ly/104fzL8 ‘Mindful Eating and Hunger Awareness,’ learn the seven types of hunger and how to satisfy them, 1 p.m. March 7 Circulo de Lectura en Español, Spanish Literature Book Club, ‘EL Encuentro,’ by Rita Wirkala, 7 p.m. March 19 ‘Girl Rising’ documentary screening and discussion, 1 p.m. March 21 Friends of Newcastle Library monthly meet-
ing, 7 p.m. March 25 Newcastle Library Book Club, ‘The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry,’ by Rachel Joyce Spring Nature Journal, join the Teen Makerspace Club for this watercolor workshop, 1 p.m. March 28, preregister at http://bit.ly/104fzL8 Hindi Story Time, 11:30 a.m., April 2
Clubs East Shore Singles, social group for single adults older than 45, monthly activities and events on Eastside, new members welcome, 2703599, monthly bulletin at www.meetup.com/eastshoresingles. The Society of Artists for Newcastle, art organization, 271-5822 MOMS Club of Renton, play dates at parks and other locations, new activities daily, nonprofit and nonreligious, daytime support for moms and families, 260-3079 Bridge players wanted, evening or daytime, games at homes in Hazelwood area, 255-0895 Devotional gathering, by Baha’i Faith of Newcastle, 7 p.m., last Friday, 430-8047 Drinking Liberally, informal progressive social group that discusses politics, 7 p.m., first and third Thursday, Mustard Seed Grill & Pub, 5608 119th Ave. S.E., Bellevue, www. drinkingliberally.org Cub Scout Pack 738, first Friday, 7 p.m., Newcastle Elementary School, 8440 136th Ave. S.E., grades one through five, www.pack738.com
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SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS, AS IN WHEN YOU’RE ACTUALLY SICK.
Neighborhood care when you need it, 7 am to 11 pm, 7 days a week at one of our conveniently located six primary care and three urgent care clinics. You’ll see a highly skilled provider right away.
We think about you
OverlakeHospital.org/clinics 425.635.6600
Newcastle News
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Puget Sound Blood Center is now Bloodworks Northwest The Puget Sound Blood Center recently changed its name to Bloodworks Northwest.
The decision to change the name results from growth to serve hospitals far beyond the Puget Sound area and the expansion of laboratory services. Established in 1944, the Puget Sound Blood Center was one of the nation’s first independent, non-
profit community blood banks. Today, Bloodworks serves nearly 90 hospitals in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. The closest donation center is at 1021 112th Ave. N.E., Bellevue. Learn more by calling 453-4011 or go to bloodworksnw.org.
Take county survey on stormwater management Every year, King County updates its Stormwater Management Program Plan with what has been learned to help prevent
MARCH 6, 2015 stormwater pollution and habitat loss. The plan works: q To minimize the effects of storm runoff q To monitor and maintain the stormwater system and respond to spills q With residents and
businesses to help change stormwater impacts on our waterways and habitat. Review the plan at http://1.usa.gov/1Ax8AcL. Provide input by April 30 by taking the county’s survey at www.surveymonkey.com/r/GTCRFKS.
Eyas Global Montessori Preschool
J o i n E ya s fo r S u m m e r C a m p B e g i n n i n g Ju n e 2 2 Campers ages 2 1/2 to 5 years old, will have an opportunity to express their creativity. Our camps are designed to stimulate the interest and imagination of young children, to
14219 Lake Hills Blvd. Bellevue 98007 info@eyasmontessori.com
strengthen creative talents, new knowledge and foster friendships. Camps will incorporate art, music, nature and outdoor play.
Now enrolling
ages 3-6 years old
Grand Opening Special
20% Off
Call to schedule a tour for details:
425-358-5151
To keep your family warm and secure, we must upgrade the Eastside’s electric grid The Eastside’s electric grid will soon run out of capacity. It hasn’t had a major upgrade in 50 years — back when our population was one-eighth of what it is today. To protect Eastside families from more disruptive power outages, PSE is working with your community on a safe, reliable solution.
pse.com/energizeeastside