びびなび : シアトル : (アメリカ合衆国) Seattle

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Mayor's Update



October 13, 2023




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Conflict in Israel & Gaza

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statement

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Last week, the 2023 Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues and Employment awarded The City of Kent as Employer of the Year.

The Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues and Employment provides state level advocacy and leadership with the disability community to obtain equity in economic opportunity and community inclusion.

governor award

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thunderbirds pic

Catch the T-birds game against the Wenatchee Wild  tonight at 7 p.m. at accesso ShoWare Center!  I'll be looking forward to the game. 



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Wednesday morning, I had the honor of welcoming the attendees to the PNAA Manufacture Forward Conference at accesso ShoWare center. 

Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance is a nonprofit organization made up of a coalition of aerospace companies that serve North America's largest commercial aerospace manufacturing cluster which centers around growing segments in the Pacific Northwest. 

Mayor Open

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cogir

Last week, Chief Padilla and I went to visit Cogir of Kent and talk about our city. These candid and informative conversations connect our community and support our residents. 



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*Haunted Boo-levard*

BooLevard

Put on your best costume and join us for a free spook-tacular trick or treating event! Kids can trick or treat around Kent Station at participating businesses, then stroll down Ramsay Way for a trunk or treat!

Be sure to vote for your favorite decorated trunk and stick around for dinner! If you want to sign up or learn how you can volunteer visit *KentStation.com [ https://www.kentstation.com/kent-station-halloween?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

?? Tuesday, October 31
⏱ 4:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. 
?? Kent Station

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carpinitos
 

Be sure to check out the *Carpinito Brothers Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze [ https://www.carpinito.com/pumpkin-patch-and-corn-maze?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]* with friends and family this October!

Last year it was named *one of the best [ https://www.king5.com/article/features/carpinito-farms-kent-named-one-of-the-best-pumpkin-patches-in-the-country-yelp/281-e4a6581f-67bf-44b5-90a3-958503b9e0af?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]* pumpkin patches in the country by Yelp. The farm has been operating in the Kent valley for more than 50 years!




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Grab your most creative costumes and head to downtown Kent for the 5th Annual Street of Treats Autumn Fest!

?? Saturday, October 28
⌚ 2 - 5 p.m.
?? 302 W Meeker St

Participating businesses will be welcoming visitors to stop in for Spooktacular treats. (Teal pumpkin friendly too!) Please support the Kent Food Bank by bringing a non-perishable food donation.  *Register online here. [ https://www.eventbrite.com/e/street-of-treats-autumn-fest-2022-tickets-410713644567?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

There will also be a costume contest, kid’s activities, photo opportunities, and clowning around with Boy Scout Troop #480, Allegro Dance Academy, Sound Transit, Zero & Somebuddy, Kent Police Department and more!

street of treats

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election

Next week, King County Elections will mail out voter guides and ballots to registered voters. Here are some important dates to remember:


* October 17 - Voter Pamphlets are mailed.
* October 18 - Ballots are mailed.
* October 19 - Ballot drop boxes are open.
* November 7 - Election Day

If you are not registered to vote, you can register online, by mail or in person. Mail and online registrations must be completed at least eight days before Election Day. If you miss those deadlines, you can register in person at the King County Elections Office in Renton up to 8 p.m. on Election Day – a new change that makes it even easier for you to vote!

Please take the time to learn about the candidates. Your vote will help shape the future of Kent. Read about the candidates and other measures on the ballot at King County Elections online [ https://kingcounty.gov/en/legacy/depts/elections/how-to-vote/register-to-vote.aspx?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ].



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coffee with the chief ymca

Thank you to the East Hill YMCA for hosting this week's Coffee with the Chief. There were some great questions, and awesome energy!



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*Medicine Take Back Day*

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medicine take back day

The Kent Police Department is participating in a nationwide program to take unwanted or expired prescription drug medications tomorrow!

?? Saturday, October 28
⌚ 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
?? Kent Police Department, 232 4th Ave S

If you have unnecessary medication at home and are looking for a safe way to dispose of it, this is it! For more information on what is accepted and what we cannot accept, click here [ https://www.kentwa.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/5630/587?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]. 

Please contact Stacy Judd at sjudd@kentwa.gov or 253-856-5883 if you have any additional questions.

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community meeting

Join Chief Padilla and command staff for a community meeting on October 25.

There will be discussions about current crime statistics, hiring/retention, staffing and legislative priorities. There will also be time for question & answer.

?? Wednesday, October 25
⌚ 6 p.m.- 7:30 p.m.
?? Zion Lutheran Church, 25105 132nd Ave SE Kent



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Interested in serving the Kent community? Applications for an at large and law enforcement position are available for the city's Disability Retirement Board. The board reviews medical and disability claims made by police officers and firefighters. *Here's some more information. *

law board

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cybersafe

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, so here's another reminder with some *best practices [ https://staysafeonline.org/programs/cybersecurity-awareness-month/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]* to stay safe.


* Enabling multi-factor authentication
* Using strong passwords
* Updating software
* Recognizing and reporting phishing


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Communications/Multimedia Team Awards 

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awards

Our Communications and Multimedia Department are amazing. They do everything from designing graphics and creating animation to taking photos and telling our story through video. Whatever they do, they do it with style and professionalism. 

The City of Kent Communications/Multimedia team won several awards from the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA) and City-County Communications & Marketing Association (3CMA) this fall for their incredible work. Congratulations to the whole team!

The Savvy Awards have represented the best in government communications for more than 30 years. Work produced since January 1, 2022, to present from hundreds of communication departments are recognized and honored for programs that have effectively engaged their constituents and elevated the profession.

Catalogs/Guides

*1st. Kent Parks Recreation Guide* 

Resident Participation

*2nd. Drinks in the Driveway* 

Social Media Campaign

*3rd. Cuisines of Kent social campaign* 

NATOA Awards (National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors) The Government Programming Awards (GPAs) are annual awards that recognize excellence in broadcast, cable, multimedia and electronic programming produced by local government agencies. Celebrating over 35 years of programming excellence, the GPA’s celebrate the achievements of programmers across the nation.

*Award of Excellence: "Overall Excellence – City of Kent" * 

*Award of Excellence: "Lü Machine – Kent Parks" * 

*Award of Excellence: "Kent City Council Meeting" *

*Award of Distinction: "Cuisines of Kent"* 

*Award of Distinction: "Mayor Dana Ralph's Update"*

*Award of Distinction: "A Welcome Figure – Mike Evans" * 

*Award of Honor: "National Night Out 2022" *

 

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*Employee of the Month *

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september

Tami Fowler is our September Employee of the Month! Tami was hired by the city in 1996 and now serves as a Parks Program Assistant.

She oversees the use of an assigned recreation facility and supports the administration and operation of that facility. She also provides information and assistance to facility users.

Tami says she is fortunate to work with her fabulous friends here at the city. Tami says it is a fun environment, but still challenging with a variety of tasks. She also enjoys volunteer opportunities that the Parks Department provides.

She appreciates working in the community and seeing all the happy faces at the many fun events. Tami was nominated because her dedication, commitment, and passion for her work is evident in everything she does.

Tami consistently goes above and beyond her job responsibilities by thinking creatively and finding innovative solutions to challenges. She approaches every task with a positive and can-do attitude, always striving for excellence.

Tami's extensive experience and deep understanding of the parks system have made her an invaluable resource for both her colleagues and the community. 

Her dedication to putting customers first and ensuring their satisfaction is commendable and sets a shining example for all of us. Tami continuously embraces our values, and we celebrate her as September’s Employee of the Month!

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Speaker Series 

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speaker series

The City of Kent is partnering with World Relief to bring their From Home to Home exhibit as a part of the Race and Equity Speaker series! 

The exhibit is semi-guided which put you in the shoes of refugees and other who have been forced to leave behind their homes, and often loved ones. 

You can learn about the challenges of resettlement in the United States, build greater empathy and find out what next steps you can take. *Here's a little more information about the event. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions/cultural-communities-board/equity-and-inclusion-speaker-series?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]
*

*??* October 26 and 27
⌚ 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. or 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
??124 4th Ave. S. Suite #180 Kent, WA 98032

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Sound Transit is considering changes to Link light rail fares and our parking program. We want your feedback to help us create a more accurate and equitable picture of what works for our riders. To learn more and take the survey *visit this link!* [ https://soundtransitfaresandparking.infocommunity.org/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]  

sound transit

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kent works app

The KentWorks app lets you access information and improve your neighborhood and community by reporting non-emergency issues to the city.

You can request a service, report a problem and find information about the City of Kent all from your mobile device in just a few taps! *KentWA.gov/Kentworks [ http://kentwa.gov/Kentworks?fbclid=IwAR2RafFQkYqrAp_A3-jQV8cYa4Ok4XBoLlfshP7Drzi5QSAdLXHJjRkJuvU&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*



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*Recycling Collection Event *

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recycling event

Have items that need to be recycled? Come out to our Fall Residential Recycling event! For a full list of accepted items, visit our website at *KentWa.gov/Recycle [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/public-works/environmental/talking-trash-recycle-and-clean-up-events-for-residents/recycling-collection-events?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

?? Tomorrow
?? 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.
?? Hogan Park, 24400 Russell Road

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conservation

We had a wonderful group of volunteers that helped us maintain 2,500 square feet of natual space at Van Doren's Landing Park. 

The work included clearing invasive blackberry bushes and planting native shrubs and pollinator plants, and mulching.



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*Orca Recovery Day Conservation Event *

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Orca Recovery

Tomorrow, join our conservation efforts and volunteer to help keep our parks and natural areas healthy and thriving!

Community members of all ages are welcome to volunteer and work alongside Kent Parks staff to help clear invasive species, mulch, and plant native shrubs. 

Our volunteer events are also a great way for students to get valuable experience and complete community service hours!  You can sign up to help at *MyKentParks.com/VolunteerEvents. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/volunteering/outdoor-conservation-events/-fbclid-IwAR3XoFcU-M1_NJkF-7fJB4uGVLdiXFYAG6KZ3Vx5k-vwpySJ4sGfBD8YwYU?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

?? Tomorrrow, October 14
⌚ 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
?? Riverview Park 

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*Arbor Day *

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arbor Day

Sign up to volunteer for hands on environment conservation with our Parks team!
All ages are welcome to help keep our parks and natural areas healthy and thriving!

At this year's Arbor Day event, we will be celebrating Kent's 22nd year as a Tree City USA! Volunteers will work alongside Kent Parks staff to remove invasive blackberry bushes, mulching and plant native trees, shrubs and pollinator plants. 

*Help us, help the environment! Sign up here!  [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/volunteering/outdoor-conservation-events?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]
*

?? Saturday, November 4*
*⌚ 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. *
*?? Morrill Meadows Park

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Fall weather has returned! Beat those cold, rainy mornings with Indoor Park at the Kent Commons Community Center.

The program runs Tuesday-Thursday from 9:30 a.m. -11 a.m.

Open to all kids 10 months to 4.5 years of age.

Call the Kent Commons at 253-856-5100 for more details.

Indoor Park

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youth basketball

When children play sports, we ALL win! Research shows participation in youth sports help students thrive in school, improve children’s mental health, and provide opportunities to develop social skills. Register your child for a Kent Parks program today! 

Registration for Youth Winter Basketball is open for students in grades K-12.

 Register now at *MyKentParks.com/Register [ http://mykentparks.com/Register?fbclid=IwAR3CFWD05YqRTr79aWdjNX8ukdDZFvbWOmZqdpI6bk3H0Cehg66ovP4iLfo&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*



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The Sound Transit Federal Way Link Extension project, in collaboration with construction contractor Kiewit,
are providing 4,000 trees to community members and organizations in Kent, Des Moines, SeaTac, and Federal
Way.

The project will aim to distribute 1,000 trees per year between 2021 and 2024.

Trees will be provided to people looking to plant them near the FWLE alignment. Community-based organizations,
neighborhood groups, environmental associations, classroom-based programs, community gardens, advocacy groups, and community members are all welcome to request trees.

trees

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Business or Leisure Tourism Grants Available

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LTAC

*The City of Kent has opened applications for the Business or Leisure Tourism Promotion Grant for 2024-25 projects. Applications are being accepted online until October 31, 2023. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions/lodging-tax-advisory-committee/lodging-tax-grant-application-guidelines?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

The program aims to fund the marketing, operation and promotion of activities, events or projects that promote Kent both as a business or leisure destination, ultimately bringing more people to the city from at least 50 miles away.

Organizations with a creative vision for events or initiatives that attract visitors to Kent are eligible to apply. Projects that draw overnight visitors will be prioritized.

Kent’s Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) will review the applications in November and make funding recommendations to the Kent City Council.

The grant awards are selected via a competitive process and are provided on a reimbursable basis. Complete program eligibility requirements and criteria is available online [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions/lodging-tax-advisory-committee/lodging-tax-grant-application-guidelines?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ].

The money for grant awards is made possible by the collection of a one percent state tax on overnight hotel, motel, and bed and breakfast stays. State law dictates who is eligible to apply, and mandates the funds be used for marketing and promotion of business and leisure tourism

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Business Impact NW

Exciting news for Kent's vibrant business community! The City of Kent, in partnership with Business Impact NW, is excited to announce a three-year initiative designed to empower our local entrepreneurs.

If you are a small business operating in Kent, you will benefit from a network of connections and resources that are not only extensive but also easy to navigate, ensuring that businesses can focus on growth and long-term sustainability. To learn more and sign up for services, visit *Business Impact NW - City of Kent [ https://businessimpactnw.org/cityofkent/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*



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Spotlight Series 

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spotlight

I'm so excited that our first Spotlight Series performance of the season is less than 2 weeks away! *See the incredible line up and buy your tickets here. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/arts/spotlight-series?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

The Vienna Boys Choir will take the stage at the Kentwood Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, October 17. This group of gifted child musicians has been delighting music lovers across the globe for six centuries – it will be a beautiful night of music you don’t want to miss! Tickets are now on sale for this show, and all other performances of the 2023-2024 Spotlight Series! 

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Holiday Craft Market 

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craft market [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/events/annual-holiday-craft-market?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

The Kent Parks Holiday Craft Market is coming back! This annual event is a great place to drop by and get some holiday shopping done early.

There are dozens of vendors who offer an amazing selection of one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gifts. Hope to see you there!

?? Friday, November 3
⌚ 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

?? Saturday, November 4
⌚ 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Admission and parking are free, and *additional details can be found online. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/programs-activities/senior-programs?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

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christmas rush

Registration is open for our annual 5k/10k Fun Run & Walk.

The Christmas Rush is a beloved holiday event in our community, and I am looking forward to seeing those runners and walkers take to the course again this year. 

?? Saturday, December 9
⏲ 9:50 a.m.
?? Hogan Park, 25500 Russell Road

*The deadline to register and receive a shirt is November 9* – don’t miss out! Learn more and register online at* KentWA.gov/ChristmasRush. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/events/christmas-rush-fun-run-and-walk/-fbclid-IwAR36e6OWB6NsRILHehaVtbJYk23wvOpo1lQyDK_tnsTNqRxCqOVU7I0AYuI?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*



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We're HIRING! Check out our featured jobs and great opportunities on our hiring page at *Jobs.KentWA.gov*! [ https://jobs.kentwa.gov/jobs?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

HIring

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diversity

Applications are still being accepted for the city's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Board. The goal of the board is to increase engagement, integration and access to city services for all cultural communities in Kent.

You can learn about the city's work in these areas and the Equity Strategic Plan at *KentWA.gov/Race-Equity, [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/race-equity?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]* and *apply to be on the board* [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ].



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Get your furry friends licensed with *Regional Animal Services of King County [ https://kingcounty.gov/depts/regional-animal-services.aspx?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]* to help get them back to you if they're ever lost! 

Your license also helps fund RASKC's life-saving animal shelter work. They reunite lost pets 24/7 and provide shelter pet care 365 days a year.

raskc

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debris

Fall is here and the rain is back! Here's some quick tips for reducing localized flooding in your neighborhood.


* Clear leaves from storm drains
* Keep your curb clear of debris. 
* Throw out waste properly.
* *Report areas of concern with KentWorks [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/public-works/drainage-flooding?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*


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Don't forget to check out the new episode of the KentNOW podcast!  Tracy, Josh and Kyle talk to Somen Palit from the cities Information Technology department about how they are utilizing artificial intelligence in their work.  

Listen to new and previous episodes on:
?? Apple Podcasts *apple.co/3J2UMkd [ https://t.co/kiMUAwAMdU?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*
?? Spotify *spoti.fi/3GNCeli [ https://t.co/MccBJhOIlp?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*
?? Amazon Music *amzn.to/3jjaOvU [ https://amzn.to/3jjaOvU?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

KentNow

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Translations

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translations

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City of Kent, Washington

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