All Posts in "Month: May 2018"

Have you seen increasing graffiti in your neighborhood? Perhaps you’ve heard of an uptick in car thefts on your block, or maybe a child’s bicycle was stolen off a porch. Incidents like this can cause anxiety and frustration among a community’s residents, and may lead you to consider forming a Neighborhood Watch program.

The U.S. Department of Justice defines a Neighborhood Watch as “a group of people living in the same area who want to make their neighborhood safer by working together and in conjunction with local law enforcement to reduce crime and improve their quality of life.” The agency states that Neighborhood Watch programs go back nearly 70 years, but truly came into prominence in the 1970s and ‘80s.

Many communities already have such programs in place. If yours doesn’t, here are the best ways to establish one:

Gauge neighborhood interest, hold a meeting.

The first step is to talk to neighbors and try to gauge interest. It might help to mention that Neighborhood Watches can help with crime reduction, improved community relations, better harmony with law enforcement, and ultimately, better quality of life. Talk to the neighbors you know first, and then, if you feel inclined, go door to door. Distribute flyers at local businesses to promote the idea.

Once you find enough interested parties, organize a meeting with the people who responded favorably to the idea. Try a local coffee shop, library or community center as a potential location. As you plan, it is important to get local law enforcement involved. Ask the police department to send a liaison to the initial meeting. Their involvement can help formalize the Neighborhood Watch, and they can help provide information and resources to get the group started. The Department of Justice also recommends registering the group with USAonWatch, the national organization for Watch groups.

Establish leadership, goals and agendas.

During your meeting, establish leadership for the Neighborhood Watch program. Establish block captains, who generally oversee a proximity of 10 to 15 houses. The block captain maintains relations with neighbors and checks in about their concerns on an ongoing basis.

Your group also needs a Neighborhood Watch coordinator who organizes the list of members, acts as a liaison between members, officers, civic groups and block captains, and continues to arrange meetings and training for the group. It’s also vital to have rank-and-file members hold leadership accountable and voice the needs of the community at-large.

You’ll also want to determine some key objectives for the group and establish times for training programs with help from local law enforcement. The group can also decide if it wants to focus on neighborhood patrols, cleanup days, crime-prevention seminars, or other activities.

Raise awareness and maintain momentum.

As you kick off your Neighborhood Watch, be sure to raise awareness. You can host a launch event, create a website, or circulate newsletters. Make sure to maintain communication with other leaders and the law enforcement liaison.

Once you’re up and running, set a regular meeting time for the community at-large to participate in the Neighborhood Watch. In these meetings, your area’s residents can raise any concerns or report suspicious activities.

With that, your Neighborhood Watch is ready to go. These groups can bring your neighborhood together and also greatly improve quality of life.

Justin Lavelle, who wrote this article,

Neighborhood watches have been around in one form or another for nearly 70 years.

is the chief communications officer for BeenVerified (beenverified.com), a source of online background checks and contact information such as criminal records.

 

WHO YOU GONNA CALL?

Neighborhood Block Watches are a way that citizens can try to improve the public safety of their communities. Here are phone numbers to call for help from police departments and crime prevention programs in start block watches in the following jurisdictions:

Auburn 253-931-3080

Edgewood 253-952-0275

Federal Way 253-835-6720

King County 206-296-3311

Pierce County 253-798-3624

Puyallup 253-841-5531

University Place 253-798-3141

 

BE SAFE OUT THERE (AND AT HOME)

Law enforcement officials note that seniors are the target of many types of criminals. With that in mind, the King County Sheriff Department has some advice for being alert and safe, both at home and when out and about.

  • Make your home safe and secure. Install good locks on doors and windows. Don’t hide keys in mailboxes and planters or under doormats. Instead, leave an extra set of keys with a neighbor or friend.
  • Ask for photo identification from service or delivery people before letting them in. If you are the least bit worried, call the company to verify.
  • Be sure your street address number is large, visible and well-lighted so police and other emergency personnel can find your home quickly.
  • Consider a home alarm system that provides emergency monitoring for burglary, fire, and medical emergencies.
  • Get involved in the community. Report any crime or suspicious activities to police. Join a Neighborhood Watch. Work to help improve your neighborhood. Volunteer as a citizen patroller, tutor for children, office aide in the police or fire department, mentor for teens, or escort for individuals with disabilities.
  • Be alert when out and about. Go with friends or family, not alone. Carry your purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket. Don’t carry credit cards you don’t need or large amounts of cash. Keep car doors locked, whether you’re a passenger or driver. Be particularly alert in parking lots and garages. Park near an entrance.
  • Use direct deposit for Social Security and other regular checks.
  • Sit close to the driver or near the exit while riding a bus, train, or light rail. If someone or something makes you uneasy, trust your instincts and leave.
Contributing Author by — May 24, 2018 in Spotlight

An anti-inflammatory diet aims to minimize harmful inflammation in the body. From avocados to turmeric, fill your diet with this list of the top 20 anti-inflammation foods:

  1. Avocados

Avocados are unique in the fact they are rich in healthy fat, unlike most fruits that naturally supply carbohydrate. They also source a number of antioxidants, including lutein and zeaxanthin that can protect the eyes from cataracts and macular degeneration, common conditions in the elderly. Avocadoes have been shown to reduce inflammation in young skin cells, along with managing blood pressure and promoting digestive health relative to its high fiber and potassium concentrations.

  1. Blueberries

They may be small, but blueberries are nothing short of mighty. Blueberries are chock-full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, along with supplying antioxidants such as anthocyanins, gallic acid, and resveratrol. The compounds can help combat against inflammation, boost immunity, reduce heart disease risk, and improve skin health. Strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, and other colorful berries are also suppliers of powerful antioxidants.

  1. Beets

The deep and rich color of beets is not only eye-appealing, but signifies its potent antioxidant content. Beets contain betalain, a pigment supplying their signature color and an excellent anti-inflammatory. Primarily related to its nitrate content, research additionally shows drinking beet juice may fight the progression of dementia. Nitrites have shown to widen blood vessels, thus increasing oxygen-rich blood flow to the brain.

  1. Bone Broth

Bone broth is created by simmering together water, animal bones, vegetables, and various seasonings, with the long and slow process releasing valuable minerals from the bones and collagen from the joints. Largely in the form of minerals, antioxidants in bone broth may demonstrate the power to fight against aging by protecting the body from damaging free radicals, harmful compounds mostly originating from environmental toxins or stemming from a poor diet.

  1. Broccoli

As if there was just another reason to eat your broccoli. The cruciferous veggie supplies potent antioxidants, including sulforaphane. The antioxidant has shown to fight inflammation by reducing levels of cytokines, signaling proteins shown to synergize inflammation. Research has also shown consuming cruciferous vegetables, including cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, is associated with a decreased risk of both heart disease and cancer.

  1. Cherries

Cherries are one of the best foods to reduce inflammation, with researchers suggesting both tart and sweet variations display the highest anti-inflammatory content of any food! They are packed with antioxidants, such as anthocyanins and catechins, which can lower inflammation related to arthritis and muscle recovery.

  1. Coffee

Reaching for that morning cup of joe not only gifts that energy jolt, but supplies powerful antioxidants. Along with reducing inflammation, coffee is tied to better brain health and may enhance memory, reduce dementia risk, lower the risk of Parkinson’s disease, and stave off depression. However, it is important to divvy away from copious amounts of added sugars and creams, as they can be pro-inflammatory and dismiss the benefits of coffee.

  1. Dark Chocolate

Simultaneously kick the craving and up the antioxidants! Dark chocolate contains polyphenols are powerful antioxidants, showing to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and brain deterioration. But to have your chocolate and eat it too, it is important to keep sugar minimized; use cocoa powder in cooking and look for dark chocolate products with minimal added sugars.

  1. Fatty Fish

Including salmon, anchovies, herring, mackerel, tuna, and sardines, fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty fish contain high amounts of the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which offers anti-inflammatory effects to the body.

  1. Flax and Chia Seeds

Not a fan of fish? Both flax and chia seeds seeds are likewise rich in omega-3 fatty acids, along with being a valuable plant-based protein and fiber source. So in addition to reducing inflammation in the body, these seeds support digestive and heart health.

  1. Grapes

Several plant compounds in grapes, including flavonoids and resveratrol, can reduce inflammation and protect against damage, particularly related to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.

  1. Green Tea

Going green with your tea pours out bountiful health benefits, mostly related to its catechin content, a type of polyphenol. Green tea has demonstrated to reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage that may lead to disease, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Regular consumption may also assist in weight loss efforts by increasing metabolism and reducing fat mass.

  1. Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are extremely high in polyphenols and vitamins A, C, and K, all of which are believed to offer anti-inflammatory properties. From spinach to kale, add leafy greens to a number of meals, including salads, soups, casseroles, and soups.

  1. Nuts

Almonds, walnuts, and other nut varieties are rich in healthy fat shown to combat against inflammation. In fact, evidence correlate nuts with reduced markers of inflammation, along with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Nuts are also rich in protein and fiber, two dietary components that facilitate and accelerate weight loss efforts.

  1. Oats

Oats are a whole grain that seem to have special health properties, notoriously known for its role in digestive and heart health thanks to its high fiber content. However, oats also contain compounds known as avenanthramides, which have shown to offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. So rather than pouring out a sugary bowl of cereal in the morning, prepare these overnight oat recipes for significant health benefits.

  1. Olive Oil

Along with supplying heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, olive oil is a known source of oleocanthal, a phenolic compound shown to offer anti-inflammatory benefits. In fact, oleocanthal has exhibited the same anti-inflammatory response in the body as NSAID ibuprofen, designating it as a safe and natural anti-inflammatory agent.

  1. Oranges

Oranges are notorious for their vitamin C content, which can act as a potent antioxidant. Vitamin C helps to reduce the damage from ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, a major risk factor for skin cancer. The vitamin has also shown to reduce skin wrinkling and improve overall skin appearance, while it’s collagen-building properties shape and maintain the structure of bone, tendon, skin, cartilage and all other connective tissue.

  1. Red Wine

Being produced from grapes, red wine is notorious for its resveratrol content. Resveratrol becomes more concentrated during the fermentation process, while being more potent in red over white wine. Researchers have correlated resveratrol to numerous health advantages, including good heart health, cancer prevention, and anti-aging. To reap the most benefit of red wine, drink in moderation and verify its consumption will not cause adverse side effects related to medication interactions.

  1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a carotenoid found in pink and red plants. The color-producing pigment has also shown to protect against inflammation, cancer, and skin damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) light that shines from the sun.

  1. Turmeric

While not a food per se, turmeric is certainly worth mentioning. Coming from the turmeric plant, turmeric is a spice bright in color and mostly known for its warm, bitter taste in curry dishes. In addition to its culinary use, turmeric has been used to treat an extensive number of inflammatory and infectious diseases and conditions, particularly related to its curcumin content. Curcumin, the chemical providing the vibrant color of turmeric, is suggested to reduce inflammation and combat against infection.

 

Source: Silver Cuisine and its team of dietitians, chefs and fitness experts.

Small but mighty blueberries are among food that can help ward off arthritis, heart disease, dementia and high blood pressure.
Contributing Author by — May 24, 2018 in Food, People

Earnings for female and male full-time workers tend to increase with age, though earnings increase more slowly after age 45 and even decrease after age 55, according to a new report on gender pay equity nationally and in Washington.

The report finds that gender pay gap also grows with age, and differences among older workers are considerably larger than gaps among younger workers. In 2016, women ages 20–24 were paid 96 percent of what men were paid, decreasing to 78 to 89 percent from age 25 to age 54. By the time workers reach 55 to 64 years old, women are paid only 74 percent of what men are paid.

That information is part of a report by the American Association of University Women (AAUW) on gender pay equity. The state-by-state analysis finds that on average, women working full-time and year-round in Washington make 77 cents on the dollar compared to men, a pay gap of 23 percent. That ranks Washington 40th out of all 50 states and the District of Columbia. New York, California, Florida, District of Columbia and Vermont rank first through fifth.

“Women in Washington – and all over the country — are sick of unequal pay,” said Kim Churches, AAUW’s chief executive officer. “Pay inequity harms our families and employers, while also robbing our economy of billions of dollars. There’s no reason we shouldn’t be able to close the pay gap, and do it soon.”

Equal Pay Day was held on April 10 as a symbolic call for every state to adopt comprehensive equal pay laws. While 48 states and the District of Columbia (all except Alabama and Mississippi) have some form of an equal pay law, they differ significantly in their scope and strength. Currently, Washington has strong equal pay protections, according to AAUW. An analysis of all pay equity laws is available at https://www.aauw.org/resource/state-equal-pay-laws/.

AAUW is a Washington, D.C.-based, non-profit organization of more than 170,000 members that studies and take positions on educational, social, economic and political issues.

srmedia by — May 24, 2018 in News

Like many people in a military family, Warren Smith Sr. spent much of his childhood on the move. His family went from base to base, living in eight states and overseas in Germany.

The experience gave Smith perspective on public education. He attended schools in poor and affluent communities, and he learned that not all schools are created equally.

“What I got from that is that it’s very important for every student to have a high-quality, equitable education,” said Smith, who resigned in March from the Bethel School Board due to health issues. The remaining board members expect to appoint his successor in May.

Smith had two stints as a board member — from 1986 to 1999 and again from 2013 to 2018 – and served with a philosophy that “it’s amazing what kids can do when you give them a chance.” That attitude took on a more personal meaning when, in his second tenure as a board member, he presented high school diplomas to his grandchildren during their schools’ graduation ceremonies.

In addition to the big moments with his grandkids, presiding as a School Board member over his son’s high school graduation ceremony was a high-water mark in Smith’s life.

He also has had his share of grief. In 2011, his wife of 34 years died after a long illness. It was a devastating blow that Smith wasn’t sure he’d ever recover from.

“For the first four years after she passed away,” he recalaled, “it was like I was in a cave, but then I woke up one morning and I said, ‘Wait a minute, this is a beautiful world. There’s still life out there.’”

He reconnected with an old high school sweetheart, and their engagement has rejuvenated him. “Our families say we’re like two teenage kids,” he said.

Warren Smith wondered if he’d ever recover from the death of his wife of 34 years. “Then I woke up one morning and I said, ‘Wait a minute, this is a beautiful world. There’s still life out there.” (Courtesy photo/Bethel School District)
Pat Jenkins by — May 24, 2018 in Lifestyles