Community Cafe Bainbridge

Ever wanted to explore the Pacific Northwest mountain ranges but didn’t know how? Ever see the sailing classes in Eagle Harbor and wonder how you could participate? Ever want to learn basic outdoor skills but didn’t know where to start? The BI Parks and Recreation District can help you find your way into a more exciting time in the great outdoors.  Parks and Rec Outdoor Programs Manager Jeff Ozimek’s love of teaching has helped to create one of the most robust public outdoor programs in the country. Their programs are designed to open the door to adventure for novices and experts, young and old. Listen here as he shares his infectious enthusiasm for the outdoors through stories gathered from years of running outdoor programs. To explore more ways to get outside this winter and beyond, visit biparks.org Credits: BCB Host: Joanna Jenkins; Audio Editor: Diane Walker; Publisher: Chris Walker.

 BARN membership coordinator Carla Mackey joins Bainbridge Community Café host Bob Ross to discuss the upcoming BARN Bazaar scheduled for Saturday, November 23rd from 10:00 am -3:00 pm.  This event is the best ever with over 50 artisans bringing their crafts, arts and creations to the BARN facility for extraordinary, unique and very special holiday shopping. Come to enjoy an exceptional experience and enjoy a very special creative aspect of the Bainbridge community. Credits: BCB Host: Robert Ross; Audio Editor: Keith Doughty; Publisher: Keith Doughty  

  Now that we’re into the Fall season, the light is changing and we find ourselves walking, running, cycling and driving more in the dark. How can we keep ourselves safe after dark? As part of our ongoing series with the Bainbridge Island Parks and Recreation District, listen here as Program Manager Shannon Buxton helps to remind us all how to stay safe during this time of year.  This podcast is for everyone who uses the roads, and it is especially useful for parents and grandparents. Listen for a special call to action to local businesses. To learn more, log on to: https://www.wsdot.wa.gov/travel/commute-choices/walk/pedestrian-safety Credits: BCB Host: Joanna Jenkins; Audio Editor: Robert Ross; Publisher: Robert Ross

Did you know that 48 million Americans suffer from some kind of hearing loss?  That is one in seven of us.  That means that you or someone you know or interact with every day, has hearing loss! In this podcast, Hearing Wellness Educator Kimberly Parker, shares important knowledge and helpful tips about what we can do about hearing loss and how to better communicate with those who have it.  From using hearing aids to communicating with clarity and patience, Kimberly’s wealth of knowledge inspires and educates us.  Having hearing loss as a child, and becoming deaf as an adult, Kimberly shares her story.  She now facilitates free workshops, sponsored by Washington State’s Office of Hard of Hearing, through DSHS. For more information about hearing loss, go to https://www.hearingloss.org/  To register for the free upcoming workshops in Vancouver, WA (Oct. 26) or in Bellingham, WA (Nov. 23), email diane.cinney@dshs.wa.gov  To read about Kimberly’s one woman play, Lost in Sound, and her workshops, go to http://www.kimberlymparker.com/ Credits: BCB Host: Betsy Lydle Smith; Audio Editor: Robert Ross; Publisher: Robert Ross

Bainbridge Island City Manager Morgan Smith and Heather Wright, Director of Planning and Community Development provide a fast paced review of many issues currently in process and being discussed at City Hall.  They discuss several subjects from ADU’s, to RV considerations, Tiny Homes and of course the new bright green and innovative bicycle lanes on Olympic Drive.  The Washington State initiative 976 that will appear on the November ballot was also discussed in terms of the negative impacts it could have on the City’s budget.  Go to the City of Bainbridge website to learn more about this proposal. These podcasts are designed to encourage Bainbridge community members to become informed and involved in city activities.  If you would like to submit a question or topic for a future podcast, please email the city’s Communication Coordinator, Kristen Drew at kdrew@bainbridgewa.gov (mailto:kdrew@bainbridgewa.gov). Credits: BCB host, audio editor and publisher: Robert Ross

What is the current status of 550 Madison?  What is the plan for the Suzuki property? Listen here for answers to these and other questions about current affordable housing projects on the Island.  It’s been a year since the report of the Affordable Housing Task Force was released (see https://www.bestofbcb.org/cafe-070-affordable-housing-task-force/ for details), and Phedra Elliott, Executive Director, and Penny Lamping, Fundraising and Communications Manager of Housing Resources Bainbridge (HRB) are back in the BCB studio to give us a progress report on some of the work being done in response to last year’s report. HRB is the island nonprofit that provides and maintains affordable housing opportunities.  In this podcast Phedra and Penny talk about HRB’s next steps on these projects, City Council involvement, and how many units and what types may become available on these properties. They’ll also share information on  the fundraising goals, how much has been raised, and how you can help the island’s efforts to make more affordable housing available. For more information, visit  https://www.housingresourcesbi.org/ or check out  www.bainbridgegives.org. Credits: BCB Host: Sandy Schubach; Editor and Publisher: Chris Walker

The future of play on the island has never looked brighter. There is an effort, in partnership with the Bainbridge Island Parks & Recreation District and the Parks Foundation, to replace the damaged Kid’s Up Playground at Battle Point Park. If you’ve ever visited Battle Point with your kids or if you yourself remember playing on this playground as a child, you know it is one of the largest and most loved playgrounds on the island. But it has reached the end of its useful life and must be replaced for safety, and this gives us the opportunity to make some exciting improvements. Perhaps best of all, the future playground will be far more inclusive for all ages and abilities. No longer will a child or caregiver have to miss out on the fun.  Listen here as Curt Thomas and Stephanie Page describe the ongoing effort, why this work needs to take place, and the incredibly cool new features coming soon. Plus, listen for news regarding an upcoming community event where we can all pitch in to help build the future of play on the island. To learn more, log on to www.kidsup.fun Credits: BCB Host: Jo Jenkins; Editor and Publisher: Chris Walker

Ever wonder about the engine that drives the island’s robust recreation programming? Learn who is behind the curtain bringing your favorite island events to life and why they do it! This podcast contributes to our ongoing series with the Park & Recreation District and offers a profile of one of the newest district team members, the Community Outreach Program Manager, Ashley Miller. Ashley began her career as a Park & Recreation District intern, and is now mentoring current and future interns and organizing your favorite island events, including the summer concert series and the haunted hayride. Listen here as Ashley tells us about the Bachelors degree program that prepares young professionals for a career in Park and Tourism Science and what it’s like to be an intern on Bainbridge Island. (hint: they live in housing located in the Grand Forest!) This podcast is guaranteed to shed light on the behind-the-scenes work it takes to produce the island’s broad recreational programming. To learn more about island recreation, log on to www.biparks.org/recreation Credits: BCB host: Jo Jenkins; audio editor and publisher: Jacque Knapp.

Games! An inflatable slide! Obstacle courses,  a “Touch-a-Truck” area with police, fire, city, and FBI vehicles -- this year’s National Night Out event is sure to be a crowd pleaser! Learn more about this exciting event and its co-sponsor, K9 Officer Whitney. In this podcast Interim Police Chief Jeff Horn joins Officer Kurt Enget, who is responsible for BIPD’s new K9 Officer, Whitney. Chief Horn is here to tell us about the National Night Out, a free, family-friendly event put on by the Bainbridge Island Police Department August 6th from 5-8pm at Waterfront Park. One of many such events across the country, the National Night Out is designed to build positive relationships between law enforcement and local communities. Come and enjoy plenty of activities and food for the whole family, and meet our local police officers in a relaxed, community setting. For more about the event, visit https://www.bainbridgewa.gov/134/Police . Listen here as Officer Kurt Enget then shares some of his experiences working with K9 Officer Whitney. You’ll learn how K9 Whitney tracks missing people, what her training is like, and why BIPD brought her on board.   This podcast is part of a series of podcasts featuring Chief Horn.  If you would like to send in a topic or question for him to address in our next interview with him, please visit BIPD’s facebook page or contact Carla Sias, Community Resource Officer, at csias@bainbridgewa.gov. Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher: Chris Walker.

Are you allowed to cut down your tree? What is a tiny home and can I have one on my property? What is the status of the hotel going into downtown Winslow? Listen here for answers to these and more questions from city hall staff.  In this podcast City Manager Morgan Smith joins Heather Wright, Interim Director of Planning and Community Development in the BCB studio to talk with BCB host Sandy Schubach about some of the hot button issues currently revolving around land use decisions. You'll hear an in-depth discussion about possible changes in regulations regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs), learn about the latest news regarding the Landmark Tree Ordinance, and hear more details about the Winslow Hotel Project and its current status. These podcasts are intended to help us as a community be informed and involved in city activities. If you would like to submit a question or topic for a future podcast, please email the city’s Communications Coordinator, Kristen Drew, at: kdrew@bainbridgewa.gov. Credits: BCB host: Sandy Schubach; audio editor and publisher: Chris Walker.

GirlUp is a chapter of the global United Nations Foundation which gives girls the resources they need to impact change in the world. Listen here as Bainbridge high school student Merrill Keating explains why she started a GirlUp club at the high school and what activities they're pursuing. Although the global foundation identifies key impact areas including health and safety, chapter clubs are encouraged to focus their efforts in a concentrated impact category. Speaking with BCB host Jo Jenkins, Merrill describes the work her local club is doing to identify the needs of girls, raise money, and brainstorm solutions.  The Bainbridge Island GirlUp club focuses on education by encouraging girls to pursue studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (“STEM”) fields to counteract the historical gender imbalance in these areas of study. Although the club is relatively new to the island, they’ve hit the ground running by partnering with many local businesses. This podcast is for anyone looking for a bit of good news in their day. To learn more about GirlUp, visit www.girlup/org Credits: BCB host: Jo Jenkins; audio editor: Jacque Knapp; publisher: Diane Walker.

Our Fire Department's Community Risk Reduction program is not just about preventing fires; it's also about preventing falls. Listen here to learn what you can do to reduce the risk of falling. In this podcast, Fire Chief Hank Teran and Janine Courtemanche, Community Risk Reduction Coordinator for the Bainbridge Island Fire Department explain what is meant by Community Risk Reduction. Listeners will learn how a particular community's risk challenges are evaluated, what the fire department is doing in partnership with other island organizations to help reduce risk, and, more specifically, what WE can do to prevent unnecessary falls. For more information and some very useful tips and brochures, visit the BIFD website at www.bifd.org. Credits: BCB host, audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker.

What will the future of island parks and recreation hold for you? The BI Metro Parks & Recreation District is currently updating their Comprehensive Plan, which will forecast trends and identify priorities from 2020 to 2026. You can contribute your own ideas by answering their online survey before June 30th. If you love visiting island parks or have participated in any of the hundreds of recreational activities offered by the Parks & Recreation District, be sure to listen here as Parks & Recreation Senior Planner Perry Barrett explains the process currently underway to update the Park District's Comprehensive Plan. Using the department's online forum, you can submit input on a variety of park-related issues, including trails, recreation programs, the development of the Sakai property, the proposed swimming pool expansion, and more. To learn more about the Comprehensive Plan, log onto www.biparks.org and click on the survey link at www.bainbridgeparksplan.participate.online. This episode references other BCB podcasts focused on island parks. For more about the Fort Ward restoration project, visit https://www.bestofbcb.org/cafe-062-fort-ward-restoration/. And for more information about the proposed renovations to Battle Point's KidsUp playground, click here:https://www.bestofbcb.org/cafe-084-kidsup-playground/ This podcast is the first in what will be a recurring series with the Parks & Recreation District offering in depth descriptions of specific topics, so be sure to keep listening in for more information about our island parks.  Credits: BCB host: Jo Jenkins; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker.

What progress is being made on the new sign regulations? What actions are being taken in response to the Affordable Housing Task Force report? These are just two of the topics considered in this month's interview with City Manager Morgan Smith and Bainbridge Island's new Code Compliance Officer, Aaron Pool. Join us as the City of Bainbridge and BCB continue their regular podcast series to share information about what’s happening at City Hall. In this, our second episode, we'll hear about the many pros and cons our council is weighing as they evaluate proposed solutions to the proliferation of sandwich boards and other signs around town. Note: City Council will hold a study session on this issue on June 18th at 6pm at City Hall, so if you have thoughts on this subject be sure to send in your feedback. A note to council@bainbridgewa.gov will send a blanket email to all Council members . Listeners will also get an update on the Affordable Housing Task Force recommendations that were issued last year. You'll learn what the City is working on, how the Suzuki affordable housing project is going, and how the state's new ADU regulations may help alleviate some affordable housing issues. Other topics of interest include the Council retreat being held this Friday, May 31, at BIMA (open to the public); the newly expanded service hours for planning and building appointments; and the upcoming Cultural Funding Grants. These podcasts are intended to help us as a community be informed and involved in city activities. If you would like to submit a question or topic for a future podcast, please email the city’s Communications Coordinator, Kristen Drew, at: kdrew@bainbridgewa.gov. Credits: BCB host and audio tech: Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker.

Have you ever wanted a quick and easy way to contribute to your community's wellbeing?  Open from May 15-June 16, the Bainbridge Community Foundation's online Giving Page provides the perfect opportunity for you to help support the agencies and organizations that help so many on our island. With just a few clicks you can give $10 or up to $10,000 to the cause or project nearest and dearest to your heart. In this podcast Debbie Kuffel, Program and Finance Officer for BCF, and Lynn Agnew, current co-chair of the grants committee and board trustee, explain the organization's mission to meet community needs through their annual grants cycle. Grant monies support projects and programs in animal welfare, education, environment, health, housing and human services, public and societal benefit, and recreation. The online giving page, www.BainbridgeGives.org, will be open May 15th through June 16th in conjunction with their annual grants cycle. For more information you can call Bainbridge Community Foundation at 206-842-0433, or check out their website: www.bainbridgecf.org Credits: BCB host and audio tech: Sandy Schubach; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker.

In this, his second in a series of podcasts with BCB, Interim Police Chief Jeff Horn invites us to a swearing-in ceremony for local officers May 14, discusses safe practices for pedestrians and bikers, and shares thoughts on recent events. National Police Week, which  begins on May 12th, honors policemen nationwide who have died in the line of duty. This year there will be a swearing-in ceremony for local officers -- including Officer Whitney, the station's new bloodhound -- at City Hall on Tuesday, May 14 at 6pm. This event is open to the public. In addition, Chief Horn reminds bikers they're expected to follow the same rules as cars, and he pays homage to the concerted community effort expended in the recent search for a missing community member with dementia. Chief Horn has been with the department since 2014 as deputy chief and is now serving as interim chief. If you would like to send in a question for him and the department to respond to in his next podcast, please visit BIPD’s facebook page or contact Carla Sias, Community Resource Officer, at csias@bainbridgewa.gov. And if you're interested in joining the Bainbridge Island Police, BIPD is hiring new officers. For more information, visit BIPD’s website at: http://www.bainbridgewa.gov/849/Police-Employment. Credits: BCB host and audio tech: Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker.

Join us as the City of Bainbridge and BCB kick off a regular podcast series to share information about what’s happening at City Hall. In this first episode, City Manager Morgan Smith and Public Works Director Barry Loveless discuss the new police station and various transportation projects. In March, the City Council approved the purchase of the Harrison Medical Center building to co-locate our police station and municipal court. Listen here to learn why this was a priority, how the project will be financed, and some of the lessons learned through the process. We also learn more about the construction project at the ferry dock, the new roundabouts planned by the state for 305, and the city’s new sustainable transportation initiative, being considered in response to last year's failed Safe Mobility Levy. These podcasts are intended to help us as a community be informed and involved in city activities. If you would like to submit a question or topic for a future podcast, please email the city’s Communication Coordinator, Kristen Drew, at: kdrew@bainbridgewa.gov. Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker.

Due to an unusually dry March, there have already been over 50 wildfires in Western Washington; several in Kitsap County. So how do we here on Bainbridge Island protect our homes and neighborhoods? As we move into the dry season, wildfires become an increasing concern. Listen here as Fire Chief Hank Teran and Fire Marshal Jared Moravec tell us how we can help protect against wildfires. The Bainbridge Island Fire Department has put a number of measures in place to encourage wildfire prevention, legislation, mitigation and education. Learn more by listening here, and be sure to visit BIFD.org to learn more about FireSafe, the Community Wildfire Protection Plan, and what you can do as an individual to help keep your property safe.

From traffic and homelessness to recruiting challenges and the new police station, interim Police Chief Jeff Horn has a lot on his plate. Learn more about Chief Horn and his background here. In this first in a regular series of podcasts, Chief Horn tells BCB host Christina Hulet how he came to end up on Bainbridge and shares his thoughts on some of the issues and opportunities currently facing the island's police force. In addition, the Bainbridge Island Police Department (BIPD) is hiring new officers. If interested, please visit BIPD’s website at: http://www.bainbridgewa.gov/849/Police-Employment Chief Horn will be returning to BCB periodically. If you would like to send in a question for him and the department to respond to, please go to BIPD’s facebook page or contact Carla Sias, Community Resource Officer, at csias@bainbridgewa.gov. Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker.

Fascinated by fire trucks? BHS students get firsthand experience in fire fighting and emergency medical services from the Bainbridge Island Fire Department thanks to the BHS Career In program: Learn more here! In this podcast BIFD Fire Chief Hank Teran, BIFD Volunteer Program Coordinator Jay Rosenberg, and BHS grad Finn Mander share their observations about this exciting program. You'll learn what it takes to become a cadet, what equipment they'll use, what activities they'll be participating in, and about the benefits to the students and the community. You'll also hear from former cadet Finn Mander -- now a BIFD volunteer -- about why he loved the program and why he elected to pursue EMT training after graduation.

Curious about the new playground at Battle Point Park? Hear what's in store for the children of Bainbridge, and how you can help it come to pass. In this podcast, BCB host Christina Hulet sits down with Barbara Trafton, Executive Director of the Bainbridge Island Parks Foundation, and two members of the Parks District Advisory Committee and KidsUp Campaign, Curt Thomas and Stephanie Page. Together, they talk about why the existing playground needs updating. We also learn about the new design elements being considered, including a large “ferry boat” play structure that speaks to our Pacific Northwest and Bainbridge roots. This project is a collaborative effort between the Bainbridge Island Metro Park and Recreation District, the Parks Foundation and a citizen’s advisory committee. It is also a community effort. There are many ways to get involved. If interested, you can join the campaign committee, submit design ideas, and donate. For more information, please visit the BI Parks Foundation website or the Park District website.   Credits: BCB host Christina Hulet; publisher: Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.  

Over 40 defibrillators have been installed around our island since Islander Jack Sutherland's cardiac arrest at a Rotary meeting. Listen here as BIFD Fire Chief Hank Teran, Rotary president Robin Goldston, and Jack Sutherland describe this remarkable project: a heartwarming story for American Heart Month. Chief Teran was attending a rotary meeting when Rotarian Jack Sutherland suddenly collapsed in full cardiac arrest. Chief Teran assessed the situation, immediately began CPR with the help of Rotarian Sean Marcella, and called for a defibrillator. Aid cars arrived carrying the vital equipment, and three shocks and a helicopter transport to Harborview later, Jack was able to survive with no repercussions. But survival wasn't enough for Jack. Realizing that without the quick actions of Teran, Marcella, and the defibrillator he would not be here today, Jack spearheaded a Rotary project to spend $25,000 of auction moneys installing AEDs -- Automated External Defibrillators -- in police cars, at Parks District locations, and throughout the island, to ensure that these life-saving devices would be more readily available to anyone in need. Jack, who negotiated the sale of the units, installs them himself with the help of Rotarians Tom Lindsley and Tom McCloskey. He also trains people at each installation on how to use the units, and photographs the units for BIFD to add to the PulsePoint app so they're easier to locate. Curious about AED's and CPR? BIFD offers monthly hands-on training classes in both. To sign up, visit the BIFD website at https://www.bifd.org/classes-and-registration. And to get instant access to AED locations on the island, be sure to install the PulsePoint app on your mobile device. Credits: BCB  host and editor: Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

Curious about our upcoming EMS levy? In this podcast BCB host Diane Walker invites Fire Chief Hank Teran, BIFD Finance Manager Ed Kaufman and Fire Commissioner Tim Carey to explain why the levy is needed, why it's set to be permanent, and what will happen if the levy fails. The levy, which is set to replace a previous levy that expires in December of this year, will fund not only EMS staff but also medical supplies, equipment, community risk reduction work, and training for our increasingly busy EMS squad. Partly because island population is aging, and partly because BIFD is the only organization on the Island that provides 24 hour emergency services, total BIFD call volume has increased 35% since 2012. 70% of those calls are for EMS and rescue services, and 30% of those calls are concurrent, so any reduction in staff could seriously impact the current response times. BIFD already has a permanent fire levy, but ours is the last district in Kitsap county to institute a permanent EMS levy. Though the department is legally allowed to collect at 50¢ per $1,000 property value, they are only asking for 40¢, based on the BIFD strategic plan and current financial projections. For more information and to view copies of the BIFD strategic plan, financial reports, community offerings and more, visit the Fire Department's website at BIFD.org.  Credits: BCB  host and editor: Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

The population of older adults is growing at an unprecedented pace here on Bainbridge Island. Approximately 1/4 of the people living on Bainbridge Island are 65 or older. Recognizing this, it was decided that the next five years are crucial for the development of the Senior Center at Waterfront Park.  The Board of Directors therefore embarked on a strategic planning effort to address current and emerging needs and to build organizational capacity to support and sustain the Center’s growth and success. Based on the input from a series of five community listening sessions, the plan was completed and approved by the Board at its annual meeting on January 8, 2019. In this podcast Reed Price, Executive Director of the Senior Center; Nancy Lewars, a long time board member; Ann Lovejoy, a new board member; and guest host John McKenzie, a volunteer and supporter of the strategic planning effort, talk about why a 5 year strategic plan is necessary for the Senior Center, how it was created, what has already been accomplished as a result of the plan, and what is expected from it in the future. For more about the Senior Center, its many and varied program offerings, and the new strategic plan, visit https://biseniorcenter.org/. Credits: BCB guest host: John McKenzie; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

Curious about how our police department works? Participate in the Bainbridge Island Police Department (BIPD) Citizens’ Academy, beginning this February. This free 12-week program lets you meet police officers and see their work first-hand; listen here to learn more. In this podcast, BCB host Christina Hulet sits down with Carla Sias, BIPD’s Community Resource Officer, and three community members who went through the Academy: Loren Bast, Kaylie Chinn, and former Mayor Anne Blair. Together, they talk about what it was like to visit the Kitsap County Jail and participate in a mock trial at the courthouse. Participants also get to ride with an on-duty patrol officer, go to the 911 dispatch center and Coroner’s Office, and talk about a range of topics such as traffic enforcement, investigations, narcotics, criminal law, defensive tactics and identity theft. It’s a great way to increase communication between residents and police officers and, in the case of Kaylie Chinn, confirmed her decision to go into law enforcement. Classes begin in early February and are held Wednesday evenings from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. with two additional Saturday sessions. Apply now! Class size is limited to 20 participants and is filled on a first-come, first-served basis. You can learn more at:  http://www.ci.bainbridge-isl.wa.us/789/Citizens-Academy Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

What is it like for people of color to live on Bainbridge? What is race equity? And, how do we create a community where all feel a sense of belonging and inclusion? The Bainbridge City Council is setting up a Race Equity Task Force to explore these issues, and you could join. In this podcast, BCB host Christina Hulet sits down with Sal DeRosalia of CrossFit gym, Erin Phillips of We Live Here Too, City Councilmember Matt Tirman and Karen Vargas, Co-Chair of the Multicultural Advisory Council to discuss these complex questions -- questions that the city's newly formed Race Equity Task Force will consider when it convenes in February. The City Council approved a motion during the December 4 Study Session to form a Race Equity Task Force to provide advice and counsel to the Council to ensure that Bainbridge Island serves as an open and welcoming community for all. The City is seeking seven volunteers to serve on the Task Force, which will meet once a month at City Hall. The day and time of the meetings will be decided at a future date. Councilmembers Matt Tirman, Rasham Nassar and Joe Deets will also serve on the Task Force. If you're interested in serving on the Race Equity Task Force, applications can be found on the City’s website, and must be submitted by 4 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 25. Task Force interviews will take place Jan. 28 – Jan. 31.  More information on the Race Equity Task Force and how to apply is available on the city’s website: visit https://www.bainbridgewa.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=548  to learn more. Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

Many of us know IslandWood for its beautiful 250-acre campus and environmental learning programs for children and adults alike. What you may not know is that this local nonprofit is also trying to address structural racism and embed equity in its operations. In this podcast, BCB host Christina Hulet sits down with three members of IslandWood’s team to talk about how this work is going: John Haskin is Senior Vice President for Education, Kristine Jimenez is Director of Communications, and Theresa Song Ichien is Coordinator of IslandWood’s Education for Environment and Community Graduate Program. Together, they discuss recent efforts to use a racial equity lens across the organization, from hiring and training to curriculum and fundraising materials. They speak candidly about what has been challenging, the lessons they are learning, and even some mistakes made along the way. As Jimenez says, this work is “helping us see what we couldn’t see.” IslandWood hopes that in sharing their journey our whole community might be inspired both to support that journey and to explore its own challenges in the areas of racial bias, equity, and inclusion. Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

Wondering how to vote on our upcoming SAFE Mobility levy? Listen here as Herb Hethcote and Doug Rauh, the men who helped draft the pro and con statements for the voters pamphlet, share their thoughts with COBI's Mark Epstein and BCB's Christina Hulet. This November, Bainbridge Islanders will vote on a $15 million Safe Access for Everyone (SAFE) Mobility Levy. If approved, it would fund shoulder improvements, better connected sidewalks, trails with a focus on safe routes to schools, and other improvements to support walking and biking. The cost of the levy for an owner of a $660,000 home -- the median value on Bainbridge -- would come to an estimated $185 in additional property taxes per year over a seven year period. In this podcast, Mark Epstein, Engineering Project Manager for the City of Bainbridge, shares how the levy came about and what the process would be for selecting and implementing projects, if approved. Also joining us are Herb Hethcote, who helped draft the “pro statement” and Doug Rauh, who helped draft  the “con statement.” Together, we discuss the levy’s pros and cons and offer different perspectives for voters to consider as they cast their ballots. There are many opportunities to learn more about the levy. City staff are hosting a workshop on Thursday, October 11 from 6:30-8:30 at Island Center Hall. Information will also be available on your ferry commute and at the farmer’s market. Additional details can be found at the city’s website: https://bainbridgesafemobilitylevy.participate.online/ Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

Fabulous fall colors, a fungi Walk, a floral arranging demo, a moss garden walk, a zen garden demo, Jazz with Jenny Maybee, and of course the annual Squash Scavenger Hunt: it's all part of Founders Weekend at the Bloedel Reserve, which celebrates its 30th anniversary October 20-21. Listen here as Bloedel's Executive Director Ed Moydell shares highlights from the fascinating history of this award-winning island treasure. You'll learn some little-known facts about the garden's history, Prentice Bloedel’s vision, the Reserve's plans for the future, and -- just for fun -- how the first Annual October Squash Scavenger Hunt came to be! Recently named one of the top ten public gardens in the U.S., Bloedel offers peace, well-being, exercise and entertainment for visitors of all ages.  To learn more about Founder's Weekend and about Bloedel’s activities and visiting hours, visit their website at https://bloedelreserve.org/ Credits: BCB host, Betsy Lydle Smith; audio editor and publisher, Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

What is the level of homelessness on Bainbridge and in Kitsap County? What's driving the problem, what kind of assistance is available, how effective is it, and what can you do to help? Listen here to learn more... In this 45 minute podcast, BCB host Christina Hulet talks with Kirsten Jewell, Kitsap County’s Housing and Homelessness Program Division Coordinator, and Maria Metzler, Executive Director of Helpline House, about local statistics, issues, services and misconceptions around homelessness. According to data from Kitsap County’s Department of Human Services and Housing Solutions Center, 530 people were without a home in Kitsap County during the 2018 “point-in-time” count. In 2017, approximately 3,200 households in Kitsap needed housing assistance and 1,200 households were classified as homeless. Here on Bainbridge, 116 households needed housing assistance and 25 households were classified as homeless in 2017. Forty of these households included children, impacting a total of 68 kids. The Bainbridge Island School District also counted 18 homeless children in the 2016-2017 school year. One of the organizations making a difference is Helpline House, a local nonprofit that served 1 in 10, or approximately 2,500, Bainbridge residents in 2017. It provides a range of social services including a food bank, mental health counseling, housing assistance, medical equipment, and case management, among others. You can support and learn more about Helpline House at https://www.helplinehouse.org/. Come join their 50th Celebration on Saturday September 29th from 11am to 4pm. This is a free community event, including live music, kid activities, food trucks and more. You can learn more about Kitsap County’s housing and homelessness programs and county-level data on its website. The County is also hosting a community forum on Bainbridge about tiny houses, as one tool to address homelessness and housing instability. This event will be on Thursday, September 27th from 6:30-8:30pm at Bainbridge’s Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church.   Credits: BCB host, Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher, Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

Will bringing Coffee Oasis to Bainbridge help reduce teen suicide on the island? Lee Moniz hopes so. Listen here to learn about Coffee Oasis and why the Tyler Moniz Project is working to bring the organization to Bainbridge. Here on Bainbridge, we have lost several youth to suicide in the last few months alone. Many others report that they struggle with depression, anxiety, bullying, and various pressures. Some are just looking for a place to connect and feel a sense of community. This is why Lee Moniz and others are working to bring Coffee Oasis to Bainbridge. Lee is the founder of the Tyler Moniz Project, a non-profit organization that she and her husband, Jeff, created after their son, Tyler, died by suicide at Washington State University two years ago. In this podcast, we learn about her hopes to partner with Coffee Oasis to create a coffee house where youth can just hang out and, if needed, get access to a variety of programs, activities and support staff. Coffee Oasis is a faith-based, non-profit organization that creates gathering places for youth by combining coffee and youth programs. They have several coffee shops around Kitsap County, including Poulsbo, Bremerton, and Port Orchard. In this podcast Daniel Frederick, Coffee Oasis' Director of Community Development, talks about the programs they offer, including job training, counseling, mentoring, crisis intervention, and case management. We also hear from Kyle Koller, a youth actively involved in the organization, who shares what a difference Coffee Oasis made in his own life. If you’d like to learn more, there will be a Question & Answer session about the Bainbridge Island Coffee Oasis project at City Hall on September 24th from 7:00-8:30pm. You can also visit the Tyler Moniz Project (www.thetylermonizproject.com) and Coffee Oasis websites (https://thecoffeeoasis.com/) ... and if you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out and ask for help. There are many resources to draw from including: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text 741741 Bainbridge Youth Services, which provides free counseling for youth ages 12-19 Credits: BCB host, Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher, Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

Line dancing? Table Tennis? Yoga? Beginning Chinese? Bridge? Drawing? Chess? Knitting? Photography? Astrology? German? Cribbage? Karaoke? Shakespeare? There's something for everyone at the BI Senior Center -- and you can help them decide what future offerings might be available! Attend one of four strategic planning sessions offered over the next week, and help our senior center plan for the future. Working with their existing members, the Senior Center's Board has come up with a five point plan for the center's future, but they want to open this discussion up to the larger community, so they are holding 4 strategic planning sessions at different times and places to make it easy to attend:   • Tuesday, September 11, 10 am-noon at Bethany Lutheran Church   • Thursday, September 13, 3-5 pm at Eagle Harbor Congregational Church   • Saturday, September 15, 1-3 pm at Island Volunteer Caregivers (behind Marge Williams Center)   • Tuesday, September 18, 7-9 pm at the Senior Center You need only attend one session, so choose the one most convenient for you and be sure to let them know what shape you'd like them to take for the future. For more information, visit their website at biseniorcenter.org. And to learn more about their wide range of learning and exercise opportunities, stop by the Center and pick up a copy of their Splash newsletter today! Credits: BCB host: Carolyn Goad; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

What is the development moratorium, why was it enacted, and how does it address growing concerns about the type of development happening on Bainbridge Island? In this podcast, BI Senior Planner Christy Carr and Planning Commissioner Jon Quitslund help clarify the issues. Beginning in January 2018, the Bainbridge Island City Council passed a series of ordinances establishing and clarifying a six-month moratorium on certain new developments. The moratorium was set to expire mid-summer but was extended on June 26 by an additional 90 days.   Listen here as BCB host Christina Hulet talks with long term islanders Christy and Jon  about the moratorium and several related topics, including the review process and design of subdivisions; the role of the Design Review Board and the Planning Commission; the Critical Areas and Landmark Tree ordinances; and the recommendations just delivered by the Affordable Housing Task Force. We also explore some of the criticisms associated with the moratorium and consider how best to hold the tension between development and preserving what we love about our island. For more information on the moratorium, visit the City’s website at www.bainbridgewa.gov. Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

Many of us know people who are either struggling to stay in their current homes or hoping to find an affordable place on Bainbridge. Housing Resources Bainbridge is here to help: listen here as HRB's Phedra Elliot and Penny Lamping describe the services this vital group provides. Housing Resources Bainbridge (HRB) is an independent, nonprofit organization that provides and advocates for affordable rental housing and homeownership options on the island. HRB also helps elderly and disabled individuals stay in their homes by providing home improvements such as accessible walkways and kitchen/bathroom modifications. Phedra Elliot is HRB's executive director, and Penny Lamping is a long-time Bainbridge resident who serves as fundraising and Communications Manager. Together they explain the growing need in our community for a broader range of housing options and some of the ways HRB is working to achieve that goal. Phedra also served on the City’s Affordable Housing Task Force (AHTF), which released its recommendations in July 2018. You can listen to a related podcast on that subject here. To learn more about Housing Resources Bainbridge, please visit their website at: http://housingresourcesbi.org/. Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; audio editor: Chris Walker; publisher: Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

How do we go about creating a community where people who want to live here can afford to do so? In June 2017, the Bainbridge Island City Council appointed a fifteen member, all citizen volunteer group to  answer that question. The Affordable Housing Task Force (AHTF) was charged with developing recommendations to improve access to affordable housing across the economic spectrum. This month, the AHTF released its final report, including proposals for our collective consideration.   In this podcast, we hear from several community members involved in the process. Althea Paulson is a long-time Bainbridge resident and Chair of the task force; Phedra Elliot is Executive Director of Housing Resources Bainbridge and a fellow AHTF member; and Jennifer Sutton is a Senior Planner for the City of Bainbridge.   Together, they help us understand why affordable housing has become an issue, why it matters, and what some possible solutions might be, including zoning changes, building on public lands, encouraging ADU's, incentivizing innovative solutions, and more.   Listen to this podcast as we explore these recommendations, and the inherent tensions and trade-offs that we as a community will need to weigh as we respond.   To get involved or learn more, you can attend the City Council’s study session on the AHTF report on August 21 at 6pm at City Hall. More information is also available on the City’s website at www.bainbridgewa.gov (type in “Affordable Housing Task Force” in the search box). Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; publisher: Diane Walker; social media Jen St. Louis.

"Music hath charms to soothe the savage breast," wrote William Congreve back in 1697. The Agate Pass Threshold Choir honors that sentiment, singing their gentle music to help ease people in difficult transitions. To learn more and hear their songs, listen here. Part of a larger international organization, the local group, which currently numbers 12 members who rehearse together every Monday evening, sends singers out in pods of two or four to the bedsides of transitioning souls, all free of charge. And in bringing healing to their listeners, their families, and their caregivers, the singers find a peace and joy for themselves as well. To learn more about the Threshold Choir, visit their website at thresholdchoir.org. And if you think you might be interested, either in singing with the Threshold Choir or in having them sing for someone you know, you can contact them via the website or by emailing Judy Friesem at jfriesem@gmail.com Credits: BCB host: Diane Walker;  BCB audio tech: Chris Walker; publisher: Diane Walker; social media Jen St. Louis.

What is the Ethics Board, and why do we have one? In this podcast, BCB host Christina Hulet talks with Scott Wilder, current board chair, and Dennis Willerford, a long-time board member, about the role of the Bainbridge Island Ethics Board.   This five-member, volunteer board is responsible for promoting the highest ethical standards of personal and professional conduct for all those involved with the City of Bainbridge. It trains elected officials and members of our many committees, commissions or advisory groups on the city’s core values and ethical standards, and also ensures that major contractors and city employees follow these same standards. Listen here as Dennis and Scott discuss the importance of the four C’s or basic rules of ethics--conduct of public meetings, confidentiality, compensation and gifts, and conflict of interest. They also describe the board's history and explain the two articles of the city's ethics code -- the first, which describes the City’s core values, and the second, which actually lays out a code to be followed. In addition to providing and monitoring ethical standards, the Ethics Board also serves as a resource to members of the community, providing advisory opinions and responding to complaints or concerns from the general public. To learn more, please visit the City of Bainbridge Ethics Board website: https://www.bainbridgewa.gov/231/Ethics-Board. Positions are also opening up on the Board, if you’re interested in applying. Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; BCB audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker.

In this podcast, meet Amber Richards, Emergency Management Coordinator for Bainbridge Island and Scott James of Bainbridge Prepares. The two join BCB host Bob Ross to discuss the recent emergency preparedness survey and what the city of Bainbridge is doing to ensure resilience in the face of natural disasters. Join us for this edition of Community Cafe as Amber and Scott share their perspectives about community preparedness and the important partnerships now in place in the city. You'll hear many suggestions, insights and tips and learn how the recent Resident Survey serves as a tool to help further preparedness efforts. To look at the survey and get an idea what you need to have on hand, visit http://www.bainbridgewa.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=491. To learn more about Bainbridge Prepares, visit http://bainbridgeprepares.org/. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

What do our youth have to say about climate change? That is what the Bainbridge Island chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby wanted to find out when it had an essay contest for local youth. In this podcast you'll meet Nilus Swanson, a 16-year old sophomore at Kingston High School, who submitted the winning essay. Nilus' passionate call to action for why we should address climate change reminds us that sometimes youth can bring clarity to an issue that eludes our broader discourse. It is, after all, his generation and those to follow that will be most impacted by the effects of climate change. Listeners will also learn about the work of the Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL) from Bobbie Morgan, a Bainbridge Island resident, writer and one of the leaders of CCL’s local chapter. CCL has more than 480 local chapters around the country. To learn more about the one on Bainbridge, please visit: https://citizensclimatelobby.org/chapters/WA_Bainbridge_Island/. Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; audio editor: Harrison Gaushell;  publisher: Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

It would be easier to turn the page on the dark chapters of our history. But then, how would we heal, or learn, or grow as a society?  In this powerful podcast, students Evelyn Cantwell and Ethan Soltanzadeh join teacher Jim Starrs in a conversation about Sakai Intermediate School's Leaving Our Island curriculum, a study of the Japanese internment during World War II. Evelyn, a current 6th grader, Ethan, a high schooler and former Sakai student,and Jim, a 6th grade social studies and language arts teacher, share with us the many ways in which the curriculum uses stories, theater, books, and writing to bring to life the internment of Bainbridge’s 276 Japanese Americans.  It's particularly moving to hear Evelyn and Ethan talk about forum day, when those internment survivors, who were the first to be exiled in 1942, come to the classroom to share their stories with students. Listen to this podcast and be inspired by their reflections, and the lessons they draw that can serve all of us. Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker.

Bainbridge Youth Services (BYS) and the Rotary Club of Bainbridge Island are working together to promote the social and emotional wellbeing of our adolescents and young adults. One way they do this is through sponsorship of a summer internship program where high school students get real world work experience with local employers. In 2017, the summer internship program had 25 employers and 35 interns, but this year, BYS and Rotary are looking to expand it significantly. Listen here as BYS president Tom McCloskey explains how the program is expanding and evolving to better accommodate the needs of both youth and their employers. The benefits for youth are obvious: whether their internships are paid or unpaid; whether they last just a few weeks or a whole summer; the young people who participate get meaningful job skills, build a strong work ethic and are exposed to a sector or industry of interest. Their experiences as interns in island businesses can help frame who they are and shape what they do with their lives. But employers benefit as well: these internships offer an incredible opportunity to employ talented young people doing tasks that can prove essential to the long-term success of their businesses and organizations. In fact, so many summer interns have contributed to the success of organizations that many have gone on to become full-time employees. The process for employers to participate is easy: not only will youth services work directly with you to help define the work and to facilitate the hiring, but also there are funds available to help pay the interns for the job you need them to accomplish: a total win-win for all. If you’re interested in participating or would like to learn more, please visit the BYS website at https://askbys.org/youth-programs/ or contact Tom directly at mccloskeys@bainbridge.net. Credits: BCB host: Christina Hulet; audio editor and publisher: Diane Walker.

Struggling with reduced eyesight? Bainbridge Island's VIP support group can help. Founded in 1992, the VIP has been helping Visually Impaired Persons for over 25 years. The VIP group offers a variety of resources, including help with medical issues, adaptive aids, and reading materials, access to social services and transportation, opportunities to socialize,and current information and training about the exciting breakthroughs in technology that can make it much easier to adapt to your changing circumstances. In this podcast BCB host Diane Walker speaks with Jerry Brader and Megan Hawgood, the current president and secretary of VIP.  Megan and Jerry (who is also known as Majick the Clown) are here to tell us about the group's monthly meetings at the Bainbridge Library, the speakers they provide, and all the services they make available to assist people who are dealing with loss of vision. For more information about the VIP, or to join the list of people who record their readings of the Review and the Islander each week, email BIVIPinfo@gmail.com Credits:  BCB host: Diane Walker; BCB audio editor and tech: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

The community of Fort Ward is working together to restore the fort's historic bakery building for use as a community hall and gathering place. A collaborative effort of Friends of Fort Ward, the Fort Ward Youth Advisory Committee, the Bainbridge Island Metro Park and Recreation District, Kitsap County Sewer District No. 7, and residents of the Fort Ward neighborhood, the project also has the support of the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation. In this podcast, BCB host and Fort Ward resident Christina Hulet talks with Friends of Fort Ward board president Douglas Crist about the project and the building's history. Listen here to learn more about these exciting restoration plans, the Fort Ward neighborhood, and the key historic role Fort Ward played in WWII. For more information about the project, visit https://fortwardhall.org/. Credits:  BCB host: Christina Hulet; BCB audio editor and social media publisher: Diane Walker.

What do a  kindergartner, a 12th grader, and a school bus driver have in common? Each has the potential to be awarded the Bainbridge Island School District's new BISD Strong Award. This award, created as part of a new initiative around raising social and emotional health, will be presented every fall, winter, spring, and summer to one person in each of the following categories: kindergarten-6h grade; 7th-12th grade; and BISD staff (teachers, transportation, technology, capital projects, food services, etc.) In this podcast, School Superintendent Dr. Peter Bang-Knudsen and Erin Bischoff, the district's public relations officer, discuss this award and its success, as well as the background philosophy and values around social and emotional health. Anyone (other than family members) can nominate a student or staff member who deserves recognition by going to the BISD website: www.bisd303.org . Nominations are ongoing throughout the  school year, but evaluated each quarter by a specially selected committee. The next BISD Strong Award will be presented in February (the exact date and locations are kept secret), so if you know a student or staff member who deserves recognition, be sure to visit the BISD website and let the school district know about individuals you've met who demonstrate the district's guiding principles of "strong minds, strong hearts, and strong community." Credits: BCB host: Carolyn Goad; BCB audio tech: Chris Walker; audio editor and social media publisher: Diane Walker.

In an inspiring example of community collaboration, the Battle Point Astronomical Association and Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network are teaming up to upgrade the BPAA telescopes and functionality. In December of 2017 the Bainbridge City Council, acting on the recommendations of the Cultural Funding Advisory Committee, awarded a grant of $20,000 to be used to repair and restore the Edwin Ritchie telescope, which is the largest telescope in Washington State and one of the very few publicly accessible telescopes in the Pacific Northwest. Using the skills and resources of the BARN facilities and volunteers, the main telescope will be retrofitted, the numerous smaller donated telescopes will be repaired as needed and made available to the public, repairs will be made to the observatory's leaky roof, cabinetry and furnishings will be provided to house and support educational activities, and video equipment will be developed to make it possible to transmit images from the telescope via the internet. Listen here as BCB host Sonia Scaer talks with BARN's Peter Moseley and BPAA's Stephen Ruhl about their plans for the collaboration and the learning and volunteer opportunities involved. To learn more about the project or to volunteer, contact Stephen Ruhl at president@bpastro.org or Peter Moseley at metal.lead@bainbridgebarn.org. Credits:  BCB host: Sonia Scaer; BCB audio editor and social media publisher: Diane Walker.

'Net neutrality' is a value that helps to make the internet so valuable as a democratic and level playing field of ideas for one and all -- including those of us who use the world wide web or bring services and information to the public as BCB does. In a week when internet users across the country are taking action on July 12th to show that our current national policy of net neutrality continues to be desirable, BCB wanted to reach out to the manager who oversees Kitsap Public Utility District's public broadband activities to get his take. In this podcast, we meet Paul Avis, who is the superintendent of the KPUD department that has constructed and maintains our public high speed fiber optic internet backbone on Bainbridge Island and in other parts of our county. That backbone construction started over 15 years ago. KPUD makes their wholesale broadband services available to governmental, commercial and residential users through a variety of independent internet service provider (ISP) retailers. In this podcast, Paul describes KPUD's approach to offering high-speed broadband connectivity on a nonprofit basis to the community (including to our new building at BARN). And he answers questions about net neutrality from BCB host Barry Peters. BCB asked these questions this month to coincide with the national Net Neutrality Day of Action on Wednesday July 12th. On that day, internet users and web communicators as small as local bloggers, popular YouTube video makers and the Electronic Frontier Foundation -- and as large as Netflix, Amazon, Google and Facebook -- are urging our national government to preserve the FCC's existing policy of net neutrality rather than succumb to calls from big telecom and cable companies to de-regulate them. For more information, visit this website for the Net Neutrality Day of Action. For more information about KPUD's local public broadband backbone and willingness to serve more neighborhoods and business parks, visit KPUD's webpage about their local communications network and broadband services. Credits: BCB host, audio editor and social media publisher: Barry Peters.

In this quick 9-minute podcast, City Communications Manager Kellie Stickney describes the new City program that offers you an opportunity to apply for funding for a project to benefit your neighborhood. Projects as small as $100 or as large as $5,000 can qualify for funding. She explains that applications are now being received at City Hall for the 2017 round of funding. It's a competitive process, based on written applications from residents who are willing to be a neighborhood project advocate. Final decisions will be made by vote of the City Council. Kelly points out that this is the first year of the program, and $10,000 has been budgeted for this year's applicant neighborhoods. Already, several neighborhoods have submitted funding applications for projects, so she encourages you not to miss the opportunity to apply. On the podcast, she offers several examples of promising projects for neighborhood funding. Kelly explains that the City's "matching" dollars can match 2-to-1 either the dollars raised by the neighborhood for the project OR the value of volunteer labor for the neighborhood project. Volunteer labor is valued at approximately $28 per hour, so each hour can trigger about $56 in City matching funding. For further information, go to the City's webpage for the "Neighborhood Matching Grant" program where you can also obtain an application form and instructions. You can contact Kellie with questions via her email address, here. Credits: BCB host, audio editor and social media publisher: Barry Peters.

In this 26-minute podcast, we learn the pros and cons of 6 alternative sites for the proposed new building for the City's police department and municipal court. We meet the local Bainbridge architect chosen by the City Council to review and rate the potential sites, Matthew Coates, who is president of Coates Design. And the conversation is joined by City Communications Manager Kellie Stickney, who reports on the citizen engagement session at City Hall on April 12th, when about 100 citizens offered feedback on the sites under consideration. Matthew reports on the months of comparative analysis, and his findings, since he was appointed by the City Council last October. Kellie encourages citizens to stay engaged in this open process to identify the best site and eventually design a building that could embody green and sustainable design features, and offer public benefits for decades to come. Matthew describes the three sites that look least promising, in part because of inadequate size: - Yaquina Road, east of 305 - North Madison Ave above 305, and - 249 Winslow Way East. And Matthew explains the pros and cons of the 3 highest scoring sites: - New Brooklyn Road (the highest scoring site) - wooded land north of Vineyard Lane, and - the existing site at 305 and Winslow Way. Citizens are encouraged to attend the next public meeting on this topic, at the 7pm meeting of the City Council on Tuesday May 2nd, when there will be a formal presentation by Matthew Coates and an opportunity for additional public comment. Credits: BCB host, audio editor and social media publisher: Barry Peters.

This podcast provides insights into the caring, concerns and community values that motivated our City Council to adopt a Resolution Affirming Bainbridge Island as a Welcoming and Inclusive City. That action was intended to reaffirm our City's long history of supporting civil and human rights, and to protect targeted groups and vulnerable individuals. The resolution and an accompanying legal ordinance were unanimously approved by the Council less than 2 weeks after President Trump promulgated a ban on refugees and immigrants from any of 7 mostly-Moslem countries. That ban was promptly held unlawful by federal courts in a case brought by our State Attorney General with the strong encouragement of our Governor Jay Inslee, who himself is a resident of Bainbridge Island. The City's compassionate action occurs in this year in which we will soon mark the 75th anniversary of the forced removal of more than 200 Japanese Americans from their homes on our island to internment camps during World War II. In this candid and personal podcast conversation, we meet Mike Scott, a former School Board member who now serves as one of our 7 elected members of City Council, and who championed this resolution and ordinance. Also on this podcast, we hear from two local advocates for the City's action. Ray Garrido is the Legal Services Director of Kitsap Immigrant Assistance Center (KIAC). And Althea Paulson is a Bainbridge resident, mom, blogger, activist and former attorney who is now volunteering with KIAC. Both of those individuals played active roles in assisting Mike Scott with the preparation of the resolution. And, in this podcast, Althea makes an impassioned plea for your donations to the Immigrant Assistance Center. This podcast conversation reveals profoundly moving insights into the concerns, motivations and person-to-person caring that came to the fore in this outstanding example of principled civic leadership. Credits: BCB host, audio editor and social media publisher: Barry Peters.

Bainbridge Island is a community that loves its library, and library users have a treat in store when this year's "Refresh" project expands the library's meeting room and improves its facilities -- in keeping with their slogan "A vibrant space for everyone". In this 16-minute podcast conversation, Bainbridge Branch Manager Rebecca Judd and Bainbridge Public Library board president Eric Petersen describe how excited they are about the improvements that will be constructed this year, between March and this Fall. The Library will remain open throughout the construction project. Some services will move around the building as the project proceeds. To keep up with the changes, check the Bainbridge Library website and the KRL Bainbridge branch website that describes library services and events. They explain our Library's innovative working relationship -- a public-private partnership -- between the Kitsap Regional Library system for staffing and services that we support through local tax levies, and the private nonprofit Bainbridge Public Library that thrives on local donations for the ownership, maintenance and operation of our library building. Eric describes the funding of this $1.2 million improvement -- with about $1 million coming from contributed dollars accumulated over the years in the Library's reserves, plus $100,000 coming from a major Bainbridge Rotary Club donation from proceeds of the annual Rummage Sale. It was the first Rotary rummage sale almost 60 years ago that produced the funds to initially build the Library. Other large funding sources include Friends of the Library Book Sales, and grants from Bainbridge Community Foundation and Kitsap Community Foundation. Dollars from local citizens in the One Call for All red envelope campaigns are also vital for annual building operations. Pacific Heights Construction (PHC), which built the LEED energy award-winning Art Museum and the green-built Grow Community, won the construction contract. Credits: BCB host, audio editor and social media publisher: Barry Peters.

In this 19-minute podcast conversation, two Bainbridge women who are parents of local public school students explain their confidence in the importance of public education on our island, and why they support the two levies on the February 14th ballot that provide more than one-fifth (22%) of our local school budget. Erin Cyger and Anna Steen are two of the many volunteers serving in the Bainbridge Island Public Schools Supporters organization. They explain why they're voting "Yes" for each of the two levies that fund our local schools: the Educational Programs and Operations Levy and the Technology Levy. They point out that the levies are not new taxes. Instead, "yes" votes for levies this month would replace two school revenue sources approved by local voters three years ago, and which are set to expire this year. They distinguish this year's education levy from last year's school bond request that voters approved, by saying: "Bonds buy bricks; levies are for learning." And they urge that the levies provide essential funding to attract and retain excellent professional educators, in a state where the Supreme Court has ruled that the legislature has not fully met the State Constitutional mandate to adequately fund public K-12 education. They describe the educational needs that would be funded by each of the levies, such as basic instructional programs, compensation and benefits for teachers, and technology for teachers and students. They explain that we Bainbridge voters have received our ballots in the mail, and they urge local voters to submit their ballots not later than the February 14th (Valentines Day) deadline. Credits: BCB host, audio editor and social media publisher: Barry Peters.