On Thursday night, Jan. 10, 2019, an Open House was held by Noble Healthcare for their proposed new long-term care facility for individuals with mental health needs in Seahurst.

This event – which was to be held in an office at 2108 SW 152nd Street – was moved across the street to St. Francis Unity Place after the turnout exceeded organizer’s expectations (there were at least 250-300 people there).

Noble Healthcare owners (and brothers) Cale, Josh and Zach Wester explained their proposed “long-term care home for individuals whose mental health needs,” along with representatives from the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services and others, who helped clarify laws and regulations.

The facility – pending sale/approval/permitting – is projected to open in late 2019/early 2020 – and would be located at 2108 SW 152nd Street in the CRI office building next to the Seahurst Post Office, kitty-corner from St. Francis of Assisi School and near two Montessori schools.

The room was packed with concerned – and sometimes very emotional – residents.

Also in attendance were Burien City Councilmembers Austin Bell, Bob Edgar, Krystal Marx and Nancy Tosta, along with City Manager Brian Wilson (none of whom spoke).

At times some attendees acted hostile to the owners, sometimes shouting “shame!” as well as interrupting them or each other.

“I attended the meeting concerning Noble Healthcare’s proposed ESF in the Seahurst area,” attendee Pam Nomura told The B-Town Blog afterwards. “My main goal was to get information on the proposal. Because of the tenor of the meeting and the disrespectful manner in which questions were being asked, I chose to leave before having my concerns addressed. I regret that an occasion that should have been constructive devolved into a shouting match.”

Here’s full raw video of the event – with an approximate running time of 2 hours and 9+ minutes, as shot by Scott Schaefer (NOTE: questions from the audience begin at around the 40:00 mark):

Read our previous coverage of this issue here.

This free, open event will be held at the future site of the “long-term care home for individuals whose mental health needs make it difficult for them to thrive in a traditional nursing home/assisted living,” organizers said. “During the meet and greet we hope to meet neighbors and future partners, gather input, and answer any questions.”

The home – which (pending sale/approval/permitting) is projected to open in late 2019/early 2020 – apparently will be located in a former office building next to the Seahurst Post Office, kitty-corner from St. Francis of Assisi School and near two Montessori schools. The “CRI” building, which was built in 1987, was recently listed for sale at $1,495,000. The property features an 11,993 square foot lot, and 6,313 square feet of living space.

Owners say that this new facility will provide 24/7 licensed nursing care to 16 residents to age in place, with a staffing ratio of at least 1 staff to 4 residents.

“These are high ratios for a nursing home, and are designed to ensure that residents have ample opportunity to go out and be a part of the community while having the accompaniment support they need to have meaningful experiences and interactions,” they said.

“We are in the process of finalizing the purchase of the building, permitting, etc. There will be some significant renovations to the inside of the building, while the outside will remain largely unchanged. We anticipate completing the renovations late 2019,” they added.

We first heard about this new facility on a Facebook post, which has garnered a somewhat passionate response from concerned residents, including comments assuming that this will be some kind of drug treatment center or low-income housing, and that it might endanger the nearby school children (St. Francis of Assisi School is very close):

“Why is Burien on the receiving end of all low-income, no-income housing?

“Lets be honest about it…”i don’t want that kinda business in my neighborhood”

“I think it will be great contribution for the community, but not across the street from a school.

“The company that I work for has a couple of buildings similar to this. Properly run, they are a very minimal danger to the community and a real benefit to the residents. They are overseen 24/7. Residents are monitored to make sure meds are taken and the staff is well trained to spot problems before they happen. I feel perfectly safe having them across the street from me.

“And now this “Behavior Health Support” facility located in a residential neighborhood?

“Why is this happening to Burien? Why is this not being talked about?”

“This isn’t a drug treatment facility or half way house,” co-owner Zachary Wester told The B-Town Blog on Wednesday, Dec. 26. “It is a nursing home for individuals whose mental health needs make it difficult to be placed in a traditional nursing home.”

Here’s more info directly from Noble Healthcare:

Noble Healthcare is hosting a meet and greet from 5:30-6:30pm on January 10th at 2108 SW 152nd Street in Burien – the future site of a long-term care home for individuals whose mental health needs make it difficult for them to thrive in a traditional nursing home/assisted living. During the meet and greet we hope to meet neighbors and future partners, gather input, and answer any questions.

Noble Healthcare is a family-owned nursing home operator. We currently operate two care centers – one in Tekoa, Washington and the other in Cashmere. Both homes specialize in providing long-term care to individuals whose increased physical needs require 24-hour care, but who also face mental health diagnoses that make it difficult for them to receive that care in a regular nursing home. Well trained caregivers, licensed nurses, mental health workers, and doctors work together with the resident and their families/representatives to develop care plans that help these individuals thrive in an environment that is as homelike as possible, and where their special needs can be met throughout their aging process.

Mental Healthcare is a work in progress. The vast majority of residents we care for have long histories of failed placement in other care settings. Often they have bounced between nursing homes, acute care hospitals, and Western/Eastern State hospitals. The mandate of care facilities like ours is to break that cycle. We work with the State hospital to ensure patients that have been stabilized are discharged into a setting where they continue to receive the specialized support they need to function at the highest physical and mental level possible. The home in Burien will take on that same mandate.

The home in Burien (we’re still trying to think of a name and would love some input!) will provide 24/7 licensed nursing care to 16 residents to age in place, with a staffing ratio of at least 1 staff to 4 residents. These are high ratios for a nursing home, and are designed to ensure that residents have ample opportunity to go out and be a part of the community while having the accompaniment support they need to have meaningful experiences and interactions.

We are in the process of finalizing the purchase of the building, permitting, etc. There will be some significant renovations to the inside of the building, while the outside will remain largely unchanged. We anticipate completing the renovations late 2019.

We have seen some community discussion surrounding the home in Seahurst. Mental health definitely faces a serious stigma. In most of those discussions it has been really heartening to see so many community members working to dispel the stigma and educate others in an empathetic way. There are definitely some concerns being shared as well, I wanted to take this opportunity to address those:

Is this a drug treatment, opioid treatment, half-way house, or chemical dependency clinic? (From Facebook – Take Back Burien Page)
No, this is a long-term care home where individuals with the need for around the clock physical/medical assistance, and who cannot otherwise be served in other residential care settings due to high mental health needs, can age-in-place and receive nursing care.

Will the chemically-dependent be treated at the facility? (From Facebook – Take Back Burien)
The mandate of care facilities like ours is to provide a “placement option for individuals whose complicated personal care and behavioral challenges do not rise to a level that requires an institutional setting. Individuals are referred to an ESF if they are coming out of state and community psychiatric hospitals or have no other placement option due to their complex behavior, medical, chemical dependency and/or mental health needs.” 70.97 RCW

Individuals discharging from a prolonged hospitalization to a care center like ours will not be active illicit drug users. They will not have had access to illegal substances as an inpatient and would not be deemed ready to discharge if they were actively using illicit drugs. They may, however, have chemical dependency in the form of medication regimens addressing their mental health needs, that a traditional nursing home may not be equipped to handle.

In our experience it is very common to have patients referred to us who, while not actively abusing drugs, have a history of alcohol and/or drug abuse. We unabashadley care for these individuals. Continued counseling and treatment related to historical substance abuse is offered where needed or wanted, and supervision in the facility negates the likelihood of a resident gaining access to illicit drugs.

What type of people will be cared for at the home?
Again, our mandate is to work with the State hospital to ensure patients that have been stabilized are discharged into a setting where they continue to receive the specialized support they need to function at the highest physical and mental level possible.

Our residents struggle with issues like advanced dementia, developmental disabilities, brain injuries, schizophrenia, bi-polar disorders, personality disorders, and anxiety disorders.

Is it a good idea to have this home located near schools? (From several community members)
Any care facility has to ensure that it can adequately meet the needs of any resident admitted, and that that resident is not a threat to the community. Being so close to schools will most definitely be a major consideration in evaluating potential residents. For example individuals with a history of sexual offense would not be appropriate to the community and location and would not be admitted.

Noble Healthcare operates two other locations (one in Tekoa, WA and one in Cashmere) that serve the same demographic of residents needing highly specialized mental health care. At these locations we have strong relationships with neighboring schools and host regular visits from classes. These interactions are very uplifting and benefit the residents and the children. We would hope to continue that tradition in Burien.

I myself will have a 2nd grader, kindergartener, and preschooler attending school in the community. I would never do anything that would put them at risk.

You can check out some of the activities we’ve had with schools at https://www.facebook.com/tekoacare/

What type of insurance will be accepted? (From Facebook)
This is a special medicaid/medicare program. Residents will be covered by one of those programs.

How will this impact parking?
As part of the permitting process an independent parking and traffic study was completed by an independent engineering firm. To summarize the results, there will be a net decrease in traffic and parking as compared to the sites current use.

We look forward to meeting all of you and being a part of the community. If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions we look forward to meeting you on the 10th or you can contact us any time.

– Zachary Wester
zackw@noble-hc.com

• 5,000 meals donated
• $1,000s in matching donations for full scholarships to local trade schools
• $41,000+ to local events, foundations, & fundraisers

Now, he wants to revitalize a local play field, and Burien’s Key Bank recently surprised him with a $20,000 grant:

HOW YOU CAN HELP
Danny is looking for Volunteers to join a committee to help formulate a plan for this grant. If you’re interested in helping, please email editor@b-townblog.com with the topic “I’ll help Danny,” and we’ll make sure he gets your info.

The Seattle Thrillers once again taught the crowd how to do the ‘Thriller Dance.’

Even zombified dogs got into the fun

You too could get your photo taken in a real coffin in a real hearse.

The area’s finest kept a watchful eye on the undead.

For some reason, ‘Miss Zombie’ couldn’t find a dance partner.

The 2015 winner for Best Costume – Mackenzie Bull – was back as a zombified Alice from Lewis Carroll’s ‘Alice in Wonderland.’

• http://zombiefestnorthwest.com
• https://www.facebook.com/nwzombiefest/

WHERE: Normandy Park Towne Center, 19900 1st Ave. S., Normandy Park, WA 98148 (map below)
WHEN: Saturday, September 15, 2018, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

A myriad of zombie events are planned:

• FREE admission!
• FREE Get Zombified booth. Don’t know how to become a zombie? Our make-up artists and zombie clothing experts will help!
• FREE arts & crafts booth for kids – including a disaster kit scavenger hunt.
• FREE musical performances by the Aqua-Nets! Cool tunes from a local DJ.
• 250 FREE pumpkins!
• Learn how to build a disaster preparedness kit at our FREE demonstrations.
• Lots of treats and FREE giveaways for kids.
• Zombie caricature artist and artwork.
• Charity beer/wine garden.
• Costume contest with great prizes, emceed by a KOMO TV celebrity!
• Performances by the famous Seattle Thrillers. Dance along!
• Vintage and current emergency vehicles on display to raise awareness about emergency preparedness including National Guard, police and fire vehicles, along with a Zombie car, Jurassic Park replica cars, and more!
• Zombie Fest t-shirts and raffle baskets featuring Starbucks, the Pacific Science Center, Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) and the Seahawks. Plus, survival kits, Halloween decorations, gift certificates and more!
• Local business, food and beverage vendors are also part of the fun!

Can’t find parking at Normandy Park Towne Center? Don’t worry!
Additional parking is available at the Criminal Justice Training Center, 19010 1st Avenue South, Burien, WA 98148. A FREE shuttle will take you to & from the festival & CJTC.

• Official Zombie Fest website: http://zombiefestnorthwest.com/
• Check out Zombie Fest photos on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nwzombiefest
• Follow us on our Twitter page: @ZombieFestNW

Here are some photos of previous events (click images to see larger versions/slideshow):



And here’s a video of the Seattle Thrillers doing their thing:
[youtube]https://youtu.be/btL5CLe4qdM[/youtube]
Questions? Contact Susan West at scwestnews@gmail.com or 206-818-6945

• Tues–Thurs: 4 – 9 p.m.
• Fri & Sat: 4 – 10 p.m.
• Sat & Sun: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Phone: (206) 212-6344
Website: https://www.madissteakhouse.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/madisgrill
Email: madisgrill@gmail.com
Address: 22341 Marine View Drive S. Des Moines, WA 98918:

“It has always my mission to showcase the unique attributes of the cities of SeaTac, Tukwila, and Des Moines that make the Seattle Southside region a fun, and exciting destination for leisure and business travelers,” says Kertzman. “Together the region has a more compelling story to share.”

Over the past several years, the RTA has worked tirelessly to market and position the region as a competitive destination in the leisure and tour/travel markets.
Recent Success
Since the formation of the Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority, the local tourism economy has seen a significant rise in visitor spend. In 2017, visitors spent $726.6 million in the Seattle Southside area, resulting in $75.4 million in local and state tax receipts. The local tourism industry employs 5,000 people and saves locals $916 in annual taxes. Finally, for every dollar spent on marketing the Seattle Southside destination, $42.86 is spent at area businesses. Not bad for a return on investment!

Seattle’s Backyard
If you haven’t heard of Seattle Southside, perhaps you’ve heard the slogan “Seattle’s Backyard” on Seattle Refined, or seen a Link light rail train car wrapped in a Seattle’s Backyard ad? To sum it up, the Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority is busy creating a buzz by showcasing all the reasons to stay, play, and explore in Southwest King County.
Stop by their visitor center in SeaTac, just up the street from the Sea-Tac Airport light rail station, to learn more. For now, watch this clip to get a taste of some of the promotional work of the RTA:

For more info, visit https://www.seattlesouthside.com.

Hotel Interurban is a property of distinction. Our physical presence towers above Seattle’s Southside, offering unmatched views of Mount Rainier. While we are the only Seattle airport hotel that can boast this vista, the essence of why we’re unique is the idea of modern convenience – which we define as unbound access and valuable innovation. Whether for business or leisure, any whim, need, or experience is truly steps away. We’re surrounded by more than 200 entertainment, shopping and dining options, with easy access to major transportation. And, the technology at our guests’ disposal makes every stay, and every event, at Hotel Interurban seamless, simple, and comfortable. It’s about what you want, exactly when you want it.
Here, your room is your haven. Whether you’ve had a challenging business day or a non-stop adventure, this is where you this Seattle airport hotel is where you settle down and settle in It’s ultimate comfort in a setting that’s crafted for convenience. Step in via keyless mobile entry. Open the windows for a breeze to your liking. And if there’s something you desire, no need to get up, just call Hazel — our house robot — for swift delivery.
Waterleaf Restaurant & Bar at Hotel Interurban provides a comfortable setting that accommodates any type of gathering. Whether you desire a family get together or a meal with business colleagues, this Tukwila restaurant serves up the ideal atmosphere. There’s a buzz of friendliness and a sense of energy, borne out of superior customer service and a well-appointed space. Enjoy casual fare, and a premium bar with seasonal craft cocktails and local and international wines and brews. Waterleaf is open 7 days a week, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The versatile meeting and event spaces at Hotel Interurban merge functionality with distinction. Ideas and conversation are sparked by the breathtaking view of Mount Rainier – and we’re the only property in the area that grants you that scenery. Situated near Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, we offer 185 guest rooms and over 15,000 square feet of Seattle meeting space. Each meeting room provides the technology to foster efficient, fruitful summits – large or small.
And when you take a break from business, the proximity to transportation options like the Sounder Train and Amtrak makes it easy to venture out. There’s an abundance of shopping and entertainment options just steps away, including Westfield’s Southcenter Mall, the largest shopping destination in the greater Seattle region.
With our expert sales and services team, there is always someone to cater to every detail and ensure a seamless and highly successful event.
To book our contemporary Seattle meeting space for your next event, contact sales@hotelinterurban.com or 206.479.0995.

From Advertiser DAL Law Firm:

Darcel Lobo of DAL Law Firm recently sat down with Margaret Larson of New Day Northwest to discuss questions that may arise if you or someone you know if considering filing for bankruptcy:

DAL Law Firm offers free consultations, and is happy to meet and discuss what one’s options may be if bankruptcy is being considered. Contact our office today at (206) 408-8158 or Darcel@dallawfirm.com.

Darcel Lobo

19803 1st Avenue S.
Suite 200
Normandy Park, WA 98148
T (206) 408-8158
F (206) 374-2810
E Darcel@dallawfirm.com
http://www.dallawfirm.com
https://www.facebook.com/DAL-Law-Firm-203308630032502/