Firework ban is in effect for Maple Valley

On Dec.15 a fireworks ban in Maple Valley went into effect. The ordinance was passed back in November 2015, making it illegal to sell, possess, purchase or discharge fireworks in Maple Valley city limits. With New Year’s Eve a couple days away, that means it is now illegal to set off fireworks in Maple Valley. There are fines if you are caught with or using fireworks within city limits. If you have any questions regarding the fireworks ordinance, reach out to the Maple Valley Police Department at 425-413-5158.

Public is invited to discuss open spaces

A public meeting has been rescheduled from Jan. 11 to Feb. 8. It will give community members a chance to learn about the stewardship plans for three open spaces near Black Diamond. Those three areas are the Black Diamond Open Space, Ravensdale Retreat Natural Area and Henry’s Ridge Open Space. The meeting is scheduled from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in the commons at Tahoma Junior High School. Written comments from the public will be accepted through Feb. 28.

Time to get ready for kindergarten

Three meetings have been scheduled for parents with children entering kindergarten next year. The Tahoma School District is hosting these meetings at Shadow Lake and Lake Wilderness elementary schools. The meetings are Jan, 25, March 15 and April 26. There is a $150 fee to register. You can do so online at https://goo.gl/ cux2TK.

Relay for Life kickoff

A free kickoff event is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6 at the Re/Max Choice Executives in Covington. This event will give people a chance to register for the May 20, 2017 Relay for Life that will be held at Cedar Heights Middle School.