Katie Tinnea

Wearing the color purple will never mean the same to me again.

When I throw on a purple sweater or a lavender scarf, I will know from this day forward that this color is special.

Purple is the color of royalty. It is the color of courage. It is the color of a fighter. Purple is Katie Tinnea’s color.

Never was that more evident than April 21, when friends, family, students and staff gathered to celebrate the life of the beloved Newcastle Elementary School teacher.

Tinnea, a first-grade teacher at the school, passed away April 4 after she was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer in 2011.

The Bellevue church was awash in a sea of purple, as nearly every attendee heeded the call to honor Tinnea by displaying his or her “purple power,” instead of wearing black.

Friends and colleagues remembered Tinnea for her strength, humor and genuine, inherent kindness. They told stories of her bravery in the face of a difficult diagnosis and recalled the signature laugh that resulted in a reprimand from nurses as she sat through her chemotherapy appointments.

“Katie taught me how to laugh,” one of her colleagues said at the memorial.

That’s not a surprise to those who knew her. Tinnea was literally born to teach, following in the footsteps of her mother. Even as a child, she knew she was destined to become an educator.

Tinnea was described as a calm, positive presence in the classroom who cared deeply about her students. Her diagnosis could not keep her from the school, and she remained in the classroom, passionately teaching her pupils.

The Newcastle Elementary School community came out in force to celebrate Tinnea, with dozens of her students in attendance, and several elaborate poster displays filled with letters to Tinnea’s young daughter from a mourning school.

In those posters, fittingly decorated in purple, was the perfect juxtaposition of two of Tinnea’s main passions — teaching and family.

Tinnea was also known as an avid Seahawks fan, a superb gift-giver, and an inspirational advocate of early detection and finding a cure for colon cancer.

One of the many letters Newcastle students wrote may have summed up the popular teacher best, saying to her daughter Kennedy, “Your mom was a fighter.”

At just 30 years old, Tinnea was taken from us far too soon, but her passion for life and her valor is something we can all learn from.

Next time you wear the color purple, take a moment to think of the courageous teacher who meant so much to the Newcastle community, and honor her through your daily actions. I know that I will.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Katie’s name can be made to the Colon Cancer Coalition.

While flowers begin to bloom around the city and customers file into the Newcastle Fruit and Produce Stand, it can only mean one thing: Spring is officially here.

That also means that election season is right around the corner, and the terms for three Newcastle City Council positions are set to expire at the end of the year.

If you’ve been thinking about taking on an important leadership role within the city of Newcastle, the time has come to take the next step. Candidates must file for election by May 17.

City Council incumbents Rich Crispo and John Dulcich announced that they will seek re-election. Bill Erxleben, on the other hand, has decided against filing for re-election; so far, Parks Commission Chairman John Drescher and Newcastle citizen Mark Greene have said they will seek Erxleben’s seat.

Candidates must be registered voters at the time of filing and have at least one year of Newcastle residency on Election Day, according to state law. Candidates should also possess a willingness to dedicate several hours to numerous meetings and a strong resolve to serve the city and its residents.

The issues sure to be hot topics in City Council races this year include Newcastle’s future financial health and the direction of development within the city limits, particularly the ongoing progression with the Mutual Materials site. The topic of the city’s sustainability is also likely to get rehashed.

Newcastle residents will also have the opportunity to get involved with the local school boards, as the terms for both director districts that encompass the city are set to expire in 2013.

Marnie Maraldo currently represents Newcastle on the Issaquah School Board, while Pam Teal does the same for the Renton School Board. At press time, it was unknown if either will file for re-election.

Elected office is the ultimate volunteer job. While Newcastle City Council positions come with pay, the pay is nominal — far less than minimum wage. All council positions are considered part-time, and council members often have employment apart from the city.

It’s not a job for the faint of heart. Candidates must be passionate about their community and willing to dedicate the next four years to Newcastle, if elected.

The idea of running a campaign may seem intimidating, especially against incumbents, but the community really is best served when every position has challengers.

Prospective candidates can file in-person at the King County Elections Office or online beginning May 13 until May 17. Candidates can file by mail, though they will not be accepted earlier than April 29 or later than May 17, irrespective of postmark.

Learn more about filing for the upcoming election at www.kingcounty.gov/elections.

Or not — it’s up to you, the Newcastle city residents.

Lake Boren is filling up and is in jeopardy of no longer being a lake. Just before the turn of the century, the depth of Lake Boren was 90 feet. In the late ‘70s, it was measured at 43 feet. A couple of years ago, it was 34 feet.

The lake bottom consists of nearly a 100 percent silt and mud. The debris enters the lake during high water runoff periods. Storm waters result in the lakes surface water level to fluctuate up to, and at times, over 4 feet. This is also very damaging to the health of the lake. It allows banks to erode, trees and other debris to fall in, and drain field affluent, fertilizers and animal feces to migrate into the lake.

A study was authorized and contracted by the city of Newcastle. As a result, the city recognized the importance of this condition and has taken steps to install a control gate and weirs that will stabilize the surface water height. During the review process, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, Fisheries Division, supported by the Department of Fisheries, have listed demands and insist on further studies that virtually make it impossible for the city to proceed with this important project. The city just does not have, nor ever will have, a budget that will support their demands.

City of Newcastle residents are so fortunate to have such a wonderful lake to use and enjoy within its bounders. I look at Green Lake, Coulon Park and others and see a vibrant facility that is appreciated by so many. What a shame to watch Lake Boren disappear.

Robert Paterson

Newcastle

I was a journalism student at the University of Washington at the time, and little did I know, I would get the opportunity to become the paper’s full-time reporter a year later.

Christina Corrales-Toy

That story about a group of Hazen orchestra students that tutor young students from the district, has always stuck with me, though.

I remember the way the Hazen seniors affectionately referred to their pupils as “cherubs.” I can picture the tutors carefully instructing the young students. Most of all, though, I can visualize the way the Hazen students’ faces lit up when they spoke about what the district’s music program meant to them.

I had the opportunity to see that same passion again in March as I worked on a feature about the Hazen High School and McKnight Middle School music programs.

I saw the concert choir members beam with pride as I asked them what was special about Hazen’s music program. I listened as McKnight’s seventh-grade choir eagerly performed a song for me.

McKnight orchestra teacher Sharon Olsen said it best when she noted how important these music classes are for the students.

“Sometimes, this is the only reason some of those kids come to school,” she said.

Participation does not appear to be a problem at Hazen and McKnight. All of the classes I visited were full, highlighted by the 86 students in Hazen’s concert choir.

“We’ve got the kids in here. We just need stuff to put in their hands,” Hazen choir teacher Josh Viles said.

Whether it is sheet music or instrument repair and replacement, each of the music programs could use something. That’s why the Friends of the Renton Schools launched a March campaign to raise funds.

Not everyone has access to music education. Instruments and music lessons aren’t cheap, but all students deserve a chance to participate with tools that do not hinder their learning.

Donate to Renton School District music programs at www.friendsofrentonschools.org.

“You got to know when to hold ‘em … know when to walk away.”

I believe that two terms is enough for any council member. Therefore, after eight years on the City Council, I will not file for re-election this spring.

I am pleased to report that after three years of determined fiscal discipline and a recent nascent recovery in the real estate market, the city is in relatively good financial condition. Longer-term challenges remain. The council is still struggling to credibly fund a road maintenance plan. And, even with some major building projects in the works, these large project revenues will be mostly one-time gains. Newcastle still won’t have the large retail sales tax base necessary to maintain future services without large tax increases.

I am very concerned about my possible replacement. The only announced candidate plans to run on a plank never to allow or even discuss the possibility of Newcastle consolidating with Bellevue. This is short sighted. Here are the top 10 reasons for Newcastle to consider consolidation:

1. Bellevue has a solid economic base to support future services;

2. Bellevue has an AAA credit rating, higher than the federal government;

3. Bellevue has twice the number of police officers per capita;

4. Bellevue has a better road system that costs 66 percent less per mile to maintain;

5. Bellevue has a much deeper bench of professional managers;

6. Bellevue already provides excellent fire and emergency services;

7. Bellevue has lower property taxes: Its overall tax burden is $200 less on an average home;

8. Bellevue provides many more services: community and senior centers, dog parks, ball fields and better trail maintenance;

9. Bellevue consolidation would probably increase home values; and

10. Bellevue appears open to consolidation, at least for now.

Residents can petition the council to force a vote, but only the Newcastle City Council can approve a consolidation. That’s why it is important to elect council members with open minds on this issue. The council should be encouraged to gauge public opinion by permitting an advisory vote this fall. Your voices should be heard.

Bill Erxleben

Newcastle City Council

There is no denying that the Newcastle Parks Commission has gone through a whirlwind of change in the past year.

In August 2012, the number of parks commissioners was reduced from nine to seven, making it easier for the group to reach the necessary quorum for meeting attendance.

At the beginning of the year, Andrew Shelton, a longtime parks commissioner, resigned after he received a job opportunity in another state. Shelton had served on the Parks Commission since its inception.

In March, the Parks Commission underwent a dramatic overhaul led by Mayor Rich Crispo. Through the process, the volunteer advisory board was effectively rebranded as the Community Activities Commission.

That was not the only change, though. The City Council also added a council liaison to the commission, reserved two seats on the commission for representatives from Newcastle Trails and the Newcastle Historical Society, and clarified the board’s duties.

Along the way, Peggy Price and Koleen Morris resigned from the commission, leaving the board with only four members.

That’s a lot of turmoil for both the council and a group of volunteers to shoulder over the year, but ultimately, once things are settled, the changes should prove beneficial to the city and most importantly, the council.

The commission is an advisory body to the council, and if the council is not getting what it needs out of the commission, it should do what it can to make changes. The council did just that, instituting bold changes that should make the commissioners happier and the board more effective.

The rebranded Community Activities Commission seems like a fun, inviting opportunity for residents to get involved in their local government. The stronger focus on community events will hopefully infuse the commission with a much-needed boost of enthusiasm, while making the city’s events, such as Newcastle Days, even better.

The council is currently seeking volunteers to fill out the Community Activities Commission. If you’re interested in helping facilitate community events and programs, then consider applying for a commission position. Applications can be found on the city’s website at www.ci.newcastle.wa.us.

For many years, the need for preserving the history and memorabilia of Newcastle has been felt. At last, a small group is reorganizing its historical society in the hopes of restoring interest in this city’s coal mining heritage of more than 100 years. So much has already been lost with the passing of our pioneers.

In order to begin serious work on our project visions, it is necessary to have funds. We have plans for establishing a website where we can share the history of Newcastle, and a newsletter to share stories and events. We would also like to have some small exhibits within the community for each of you to enjoy. We invite your interest, your stories and ancestral ties to this important former coal mining town.

We are most anxious to collect memorabilia representing Newcastle and its environs that can be displayed, and any facts and memories that may be recorded. We are pleased to accept objects and articles. Photographs are especially important to our collection, for they tell a story that gives us all a vision of those coal mining days and of the families who came and made the town and how it came to be. We can scan your photographs and return them to you, if that is preferred.

A membership drive is in progress and we are happy to have your name listed as one of the “pioneers” of our membership family. The rates for annual membership dues have been set for the remainder of 2013 and 2014. Dues must be paid no later than May 1, to have voting rights, and sent to the address below.

The annual membership rates are:

•  Individual $10
•  Senior/student $8
•  Family $15
• Business/nonprofits $100
•  Additional donations are welcomed and appreciated.

Thanking you, in advance, we look forward to your membership and your interest in our work.

Newcastle Historical Society reorganization team members

JoAnne Matsumura

pine2tree@earthlink.net

1110 Wildwood Blvd. S.W.

Issaquah, WA 98027-4503

This month’s issue featured two people who stand as prime examples of the old adage that it’s never too late to follow your dreams.

Christina Corrales-Toy

Newcastle musician Italene Gaddis and artist Dan Meredith lived full lives before they even began pursuing their passions.

Gaddis was a homemaker and the primary breadwinner once her husband passed away, while Meredith toiled as a carpenter for several years.

After spending just an hour with each of them, I feel as though I have a whole new appreciation of what the word passion really means.

Passion is seeing Meredith’s eyes light up as he pointed out every minute detail and brush stroke that made his Regency Newcastle mural special. It’s witnessing the artist on the verge of tears as he recalls the support and praise the mural received from the facility’s residents.

Passion is watching Gaddis strum her autoharp with ease, and smiling ear to ear while doing it. It’s listening to her reflect on the lyrics of her poems, and the life that inspired them.

Both of them are extremely talented at what they do, and even though it took them a bit longer to get where they are today, it doesn’t make them any less excited about their work.

Newcastle is better for having these two contributing to the city’s artistic landscape. I would love to see Gaddis perform at an upcoming Newcastle Days or view Meredith’s artwork in other parts of the city.

I think the people of Newcastle can learn a lot from them, in seeing just how fulfilling it is to pursue one’s passion.

If I learned anything from these two, it is the idea that there really is no use in waiting to follow your dreams, but if you do, like Gaddis and Meredith did, it doesn’t make the payoff any less satisfying.

When tolling on the Evergreen Floating Bridge was first considered, this newspaper believed it should extend to the Interstate 90 bridge as well, to generate funds for the bridge at a quicker pace and to keep the cost down for any one group of commuters.

However, two years have passed and the notion of extending tolling on I-90 feels more like the Eastside is being picked on.

If Seattle commuters and visitors are asked to help pay for a new bridge, shouldn’t it extend to all, including those coming and going along the Interstate 5 corridor and state Highway 99?

One reason cited for having tolling on only the Evergreen/520 bridge was that it was at maximum capacity and the toll would help drivers find another less-traveled path. Slapping tolls on I-90 would undercut that rationale.

Moreover, there is no other, less-traveled path. All roads lead to congestion. Seattle traffic was recently heralded as the ninth worst in the nation.

The 520 bridge is on target for its revenue projections, but even then the state is close to $1.5 billion short. This shortfall, which the new tolls are designed to cover, is no surprise and should have been addressed at the outset. Thus, it seems like the new toll ways are just another opportunity for revenue.

Few can argue that the state does not need new revenues to address maintenance and expansion of our existing transportation systems. But call it what it is — a disguised tax, targeted to only a select few users.

A true user tax should apply to everyone behind a wheel headed to Seattle — not only the drivers from Newcastle, Issaquah, Renton and Bellevue, but also those from Federal Way and Everett.

A more comprehensive program could allow additional revenues, and still let the tolls on each individual road be lower. It could result in a more fair structure and more balanced traffic flow.

Legislators need to put the brakes on further discussions about extending tolls on highways, unless they are prepared to extend those tolls in all directions.

If you’d like to learn more about the tolling proposal, and voice your opinion on the matter, make sure you attend the Newcastle City Council’s March 5 meeting, when a representative from the Washington State Department of Transportation is slated to give a presentation about the subject.

Yes, I’m very concerned about the impact this will cause. Coal Creek Parkway already gets congested in the morning and evening commute times. This will seriously bring more congestion and I’ll personally look for alternative routes.

— Jackie Foskett

Yes. A backup beyond Factoria due to a lane closure for a truck problem at the same location; other bypasses being congested.

— Peggy Price

I am not all that concerned about delays in traffic on Coal Creek. One of the nice things about Newcastle is there are multiple ways in which to get in and out of town. I plan on using one of the alternate routes.

— Peter Zevenbergen

What priorities or goals would you like to see the City Council pursue in 2013?

I’d like to see them continue to focus on/explore ways to bring more tax revenue to our city, i.e.: Who/what businesses we can attract that would bring in needed tax revenue.

— Jackie Foskett

Fiscal sustainability, including some tax increases, if necessary. A utility tax involves a little control by the taxpayer — slightly lower use would slightly lower the tax paid.

— Peggy Price

In honor of Newcastle’s Mandy Schendel, who placed in the top 10 at the Miss America competition this month, what is the one most important thing our society needs, besides world peace?

A better sense of our influence on the future — well past the next year; a greater sense of responsibility beyond the measure provided by each pocketbook.

— Peggy Price

Our society needs to keep focused on how we can contribute to one another — help less fortunate people — rather than expecting someone else to!

— Jackie Foskett