Share the Joy
Black Diamond Community Center has Christmas program for local families who are struggling for the holidays. Your children may qualify to receive Christmas gifts through our “Share the Joy” program which is available to low-income families with children up to 17 years old within Black Diamond, Ravensdale, Lake Sawyer, Green River Gorge and Cumberland.
Applications may be picked up at the Black Diamond Community Center at 31605 Third Ave (SR 169) in Black Diamond. Applications are due Nov. 28 but sign up now so the elves can get an early start on shopping for your young ones. Parents can pick up gifts 3 to 6 p.m. Dec. 19. If you have questions, please call Cheryl Hanson at 360-886-1011.
Budget supports work to prevent flooding on Highway 169
Flooding on Highway 169 last winter caused major traffic delays in Maple Valley, Black Diamond, Enumclaw and the surrounding areas. King County FCD Chair Reagan Dunn announced that a study to assess the flooding will receive funding in 2017.
That highway is an important road for the residents in the area, it’s a main street for Maple Valley, Black Diamond and Enumclaw. During large flood events, the issues with the local drainage system has caused water to overtop 169 near the intersection of Cedar Grove Road forcing the highway to close.
On Nov. 7 $260,000 was set apart as a part of the King County FCD budget adopted by the District Board of Supervisor. The money will go toward assessing what can be done to prevent flooding on this key highway.
The study will coordinate with the Washington State Department of Transportation to evaluate flood risk reduction opportunities, such as possibly raising Highway 169, upgrading local drainage infrastructure, or installing flood gates.
Ugly Sweater Run
On Saturday, Dec. 10 there will two 5K courses, one stroller friendly, at Kentwood High School for participants to walk or run. The 5K begins at 10 a.m.
Proceeds from the Kent/Covington Ugly Holiday Sweater Run will be donated to the Pediatric Interim Care Center in downtown Kent.
The PICC works closely with babies born with drug addictions through withdrawals and the money will be providing beds, formula, wipes and other daily necessities.
Following the race, hot cocoa, desserts and other refreshments will be provided.
Registration is $10 or if you would like a T-shirt, registration is $20.
To register, you can find a form on Kentwood’s website or you can register the day of the race.
December blood drive
The Cascade Regional Blood Services announced its local blood drive for December.
From 7 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 17 the Bloodmobile will be at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church at 25810 156th Ave. SE in Covington.
In The Kitchen
Look for the next edition of The Reporter, out Friday, Dec. 2 for unique ways to use Thanksgiving leftovers.
