New passenger jet service begins at KCIA 

Crossposted from DES Express  On July 1, King County International Airport (KCIA) welcomed JetSuiteX to Seattle. The air carrier offers three flights daily to California’s Bay Area via Oakland International Airport. What makes JetSuiteX different is that it offers service similar to business class on a traditional airline at a fare that is competitive with economy class. JetSuiteX flies 30-seat Embraer ERJ-135 planes in a “2-1” arrangement, meaning every seat is on the aisle or by the window – no middle seats at all!  Read more from DES Express

New King County climate website 

The Climate Action Team has recently updated the County’s climate change website! The website highlights what climate change is, how it affects our region, how individuals and communities can act on climate, and how King County is taking action.   You can find useful information and materials on the Strategic Climate Action Plan (SCAP), Partnerships and Collaborations, Initiatives and Programs, and transcreated climate infographics in Spanish, Samoan, Chinese, and Arabic. We have also launched a new public input tool for the 2020 SCAP update.  

Q13 TV showcases King County community courts 

On June 19, Q13 TV’s Nadia Romero reported how King County District Court community courts benefit individuals and the community. In addition to filming at Community Court in Burien and Community Court in Redmond, Nadia interviewed King County District Court Judge Lisa Paglisotti and therapeutic courts manager Callista Welbaum.  “There’s usually a story that corresponds with people’s behaviors. It’s about understanding that story and meeting them where they’re at,” said Callista.  Watch the news segment and read the full article here. 

Stay safe and know your fireworks rules 

Fourth of July fireworks sales start statewide at noon. Stay safe — and know the rules for fireworks in your community. Learn when and where you can safely use fireworks in King County cities and unincorporated areas. Learn more here. 

Pet of the week: Lincoln 

Hi! My name is Lincoln and I am available for adoption. I was brought in by a good samaritan on June 26, 2019.  I’m a shy and aloof guy but I’m a sweetie and I’m trying to learn to trust a little more. I would prefer a calm home where I will be given love and patience, and lots of hidey spots! My personality color is BLUE. I am a gentle and loving cat who likes to take things slow. I may get nervous in new situations, so I am looking for a family… Read More

Community engagement begins for integrated bus and light rail service in north King County 

As Sound Transit extends its light rail system to serve three new Link stations in Seattle in 2021, King County Metro is launching efforts to connect with riders to understand what changes are needed to improve service and connections. It’s an opportunity to revise and integrate 30 bus routes to create a customer-focused transit network that works for more people, with a focus on improving access to opportunities for historically underserved residents.   “Our work to integrate light rail and bus service is paying dividends, making our region a national leader in ridership… Read More

All King County farmers markets are now open for the season! 

Crossposted from Keeping King County Green  With more than 40 farmers markets spread across King County you are never far from farm fresh, local food. All of the King County farmers markets are now open for the summer season.  When you purchase food at farmers markets you know exactly where your food comes from and how it was grown. By supporting farmers markets, you are supporting a sustainable regional food system that helps small family farms stay in business; protects land from development; and provides all of us with fresh, delicious, local food. … Read More

WTD celebrates Women in Trades 40th anniversary 

Crossposted from Clean Water Stories  The annual Washington Women in Trades (WWIT) Fair marked its 40th anniversary this year. The half-day event, held in May, showcased exhibits, demonstrations, contests, education and job opportunities for women interested in pursuing careers in the trades.    King County Wastewater Treatment Division (WTD) representatives hosted an interactive exhibit and contest. Wastewater operators rallied attendees to compete in a wastewater pipe-cutting race. Members of WTD Resource Recovery team handed out samples of GroCo compost, recycled water, and presented a biogas demonstration. WTD Human Resources staff were on had to explain King County job opportunities, internships and the WTD Operator… Read More

Pet of the week: Lil Mama 

Hi, my name is Lil Mama! I came to the shelter with my cat friend on 6/1/19. My personality color is GREEN. I am an adaptable dog who loves to go with the flow! I am outgoing and carefree, and I just can’t wait to find my forever home! I am an affectionate lovebug who would be thrilled to cuddle up with you at home! My caregivers have noticed that I seem to do well with other dogs. When meeting dogs in a new home, I would do best with a slow… Read More

Passport Day a resounding success 

Crossposted from DES Express  Congratulations to everyone involved in the recent “Passport Day” at the Black River Community Service Center in Renton. The Recorder’s Office held the event on Saturday, June 1, to accommodate residents who might not otherwise be able to apply for a U.S. passport in person during standard weekday hours.  “It exceeded our expectations,” said Norm Alberg, director of the Records and Licensing Services Division (RALS). “Staff were busy all day and people were very happy.”  Read more from DES Express