Remember 9-11 is painful, especially for those who lost loved ones on 9-11. I am grateful, this year (2011), that when we remember our fallen, we can also take some solace in knowing that while it took nearly 10 years of pursuit, Bin Laden is no longer a factor in this life. For that, I thank President Obama, Former President Bush, and our troops. God Bless America and long may our liberty be a beacon of light to all!!
Monday, September 5, 2011
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Happy New Year
As I thought about the great moments of 2010, I had a bit of a personal epiphany. My most treasured moments were not career victories, politics, or cleaning the house. They were in having fun, in being in the moment, and in sharing special moments with family and friends. Sometimes, it was in the simple joy of discovering a new (low calorie) treat like Kool-Aid's Fun Fizz. Other times, it was watching Tom and his friends play ball and chatting with great friends. Then, of course, there was that big moment this year... standing at the Tacoma Dome as my daughter and her 627 friends tossed their mortar boards (and some beach balls) as graduates of South Kitsap High School.
I want more of those moments. So, this year, I have decided that my 2011 resolution should be simple and intentional. This year, I will be making a greater effort to have more fun. This year, I will be intentional to savor more of life and the blessings I enjoy!2011 Resolution...
More Fun!
Friday, June 18, 2010
Stephanie Simpson - SKHS Class of 2010
Congratulations to Stephanie and the Class of 2010!
I am so proud!
On June 10th, it was my high honor to present my oldest child, Stephanie, with her high school diploma. It was a high honor. But the highest honor and privilege of my life was wrapped up in the 18 years that preceded that day. It has been in being her mom.
I am so proud!
On June 10th, it was my high honor to present my oldest child, Stephanie, with her high school diploma. It was a high honor. But the highest honor and privilege of my life was wrapped up in the 18 years that preceded that day. It has been in being her mom.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Supporting Law Enforcement
To show support for our law enforcement community, I have put up this blue Christmas light. It is my small way of saying thank you to the men and women in blue that serve and protect us every day and to their families who love them. To the families of Lakewood Police Officers Sgt. Mark Renninger, Officer Ronald Owens, Officer Tina Griswold, and Officer Greg Richards, I extend sincere condolences, thoughts, and prayers.
Having read about each of these officers, they were exceptional in their duties, committed to their families, and actively engaged in their communities. Their absence leaves unrepairable holes in the fabrics of their families and our neighborhoods. May we always remember their valor in how they lived amongst us.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
"Lose-It" --My 300 Day Project
About a month ago I had a minor health scare. Ended up in urgent care, where, amongst other things, they weighed me and took my blood pressure. That was scary! The weight was now affecting my health and there wasn't room for excuses anymore. I want to live to hike and bike the world with my kids and grandkids (who aren't born yet).
Over the next few days, I researched different approaches to losing 80 pounds. Of course, being me, I went to the internet for suggestions and advice. Beware! There is LOTS of advice on the internet! After information overload and a few of the best suggestions mulling in my brain, I decided that what would work for me was something very simple to which I could seriously commit for a year.
So, as of July 29th, I began my "300 Day Project" project with only one rule... "2000 calories per day." That is it!
The 2000 calories was calculated using a few different calorie calculators on the internet. I double and triple checked the numbers and then made the commitment. Each month I'll adjust it downward slightly and expect to attend my daughter's high school graduation 80 pounds lighter, eating about 1750 calories a day.
I track the calories on a spectacular free iPhone app called "Lose-It". It does the math for me on the calories eaten and the calories burned if I get in some exercise. The app's database of grocery and restaurant foods also lets me plan my food choices ahead of time. Heck, I've even had a Big-Mac this month (no fries... not enough calories left in the day for fries).
I've learned a few things too. A bag of fresh snap peas has one-third the calories of a Snicker's candy bar, but takes three times longer to eat. Bananas and balsamic vinegar is an awesome snack. Oh, and 100 calorie snack packages (which I used to make fun of) make it easy to enjoy a snack and keep the portions in check.
So far, I'm eight pounds lighter, feeling better (the headaches are gone), and most importantly, I'm sticking to it!
Thoughts about Ted Kennedy...
I cannot discount Ted Kennedy’s influence and effort on behalf of the American people however much I may have disagreed with him politically. He fought the good fight for the things he believed in and for that I respect him.
Yet, I cannot grasp how the citizens of Massachusetts could have continued to elect a man who was so unwilling to be accountable for Chappaquidick and his above-the-law attitude. Strange how they would trust him with the policy influence on a nation and yet excuse his circumvention of the law.
In watching an NBC Video about Kennedy, I see a man who led an amazingly bold life of public service which was also so regularly riddled with personal and family tragedy. And yet, I wonder... what level of effort, what measure of acts of good will and service, make up for a life. Then again... in my heart of hearts I know that such a question is God’s to answer… not mine.
So, while Ted Kennedy would never have gotten my vote, I appreciate his contribution to this great nation. I wish his family peace and wish him well as he reconnects with those who went before he did.
As an aside... I had the opportunity to hear him speak at a conference I attended a couple of years ago. It was just a couple of months before it was announced that he had a malignant brain tumor. I was struck by how short he was. I suppose that we see figures like Ted Kennedy as "larger than life" and expect them to physically dominate a room. He did not. But I was impressed by his passion.
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
Yet, I cannot grasp how the citizens of Massachusetts could have continued to elect a man who was so unwilling to be accountable for Chappaquidick and his above-the-law attitude. Strange how they would trust him with the policy influence on a nation and yet excuse his circumvention of the law.
In watching an NBC Video about Kennedy, I see a man who led an amazingly bold life of public service which was also so regularly riddled with personal and family tragedy. And yet, I wonder... what level of effort, what measure of acts of good will and service, make up for a life. Then again... in my heart of hearts I know that such a question is God’s to answer… not mine.
So, while Ted Kennedy would never have gotten my vote, I appreciate his contribution to this great nation. I wish his family peace and wish him well as he reconnects with those who went before he did.
As an aside... I had the opportunity to hear him speak at a conference I attended a couple of years ago. It was just a couple of months before it was announced that he had a malignant brain tumor. I was struck by how short he was. I suppose that we see figures like Ted Kennedy as "larger than life" and expect them to physically dominate a room. He did not. But I was impressed by his passion.
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Endorsing Naomi Polen
I am endorsing Naomi Polen for Position #3 on the South Kitsap School Board. Naomi has been serving in this position since April of 2008, when the Board voted unanimously to appoint her to fill the vacancy when Chuck Mayhew resigned.
Naomi has been active and involved in our community for 16 years. She and her husband own a construction business in our community. Three of her children have graduated from South Kitsap High School and a fourth child is a student in the district. She is a fiscal conservative, thoughtful in her approach to issues, and has exceptional integrity.
Naomi asks just about as many questions as I do. She does her homework and works to understand the issues before she makes a decision. She listens well to parents, staff, and community stakeholders. She respects differing opinions and works towards win-win without compromising core values. While a strong team player, Naomi is not shy to present reasoned and intelligent positions when she disagrees.
Naomi Polen is the best candidate for South Kitsap School Board, Position #3.
Of course, I will work professionally with any of the candidates that are elected to serve on the South Kitsap School Board. I give my endorsement to Naomi Polen because we share a positive and common vision for the direction and importance of K-12 education in our South Kitsap community.
Regarding Chris Lemke... I stand by what I said when the school board had the opportunity to appoint a replacement for Chuck Mayhew and Chris applied to be appointed back to the seat he decided not to run for at the last election... "As much as I appreciate Chris's former service on the board, I have some serious reservations...we have places on the board we have told the public we want to go. I am afraid Chris doesn't share that vision".
Regarding Gail Porter... She seems like a very nice person. However, she has only lived in South Kitsap for about a year and while she lived in Director District #3 at the time of filing, she told me that she was moving to a new home that is in another director district within the month. I asked the Kitsap County Auditor's office about this and they confirmed that she can still run for election, but she would only be able to serve for two years of the four year term since she has moved out of the Director District. My opinion is that if a candidate finds that they are unable to fulfill the terms of the office (in this case, a four year term) before the election, they have a responsibility to the voters to withdraw. There are two candidates in this race that can fulfil the full term of the office.
To see a video of the candidates when they were interviewed by the Kitsap Sun Editorial Board, please click here.
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
Naomi has been active and involved in our community for 16 years. She and her husband own a construction business in our community. Three of her children have graduated from South Kitsap High School and a fourth child is a student in the district. She is a fiscal conservative, thoughtful in her approach to issues, and has exceptional integrity.
Naomi asks just about as many questions as I do. She does her homework and works to understand the issues before she makes a decision. She listens well to parents, staff, and community stakeholders. She respects differing opinions and works towards win-win without compromising core values. While a strong team player, Naomi is not shy to present reasoned and intelligent positions when she disagrees.
Naomi Polen is the best candidate for South Kitsap School Board, Position #3.
Of course, I will work professionally with any of the candidates that are elected to serve on the South Kitsap School Board. I give my endorsement to Naomi Polen because we share a positive and common vision for the direction and importance of K-12 education in our South Kitsap community.
Regarding Chris Lemke... I stand by what I said when the school board had the opportunity to appoint a replacement for Chuck Mayhew and Chris applied to be appointed back to the seat he decided not to run for at the last election... "As much as I appreciate Chris's former service on the board, I have some serious reservations...we have places on the board we have told the public we want to go. I am afraid Chris doesn't share that vision".
Regarding Gail Porter... She seems like a very nice person. However, she has only lived in South Kitsap for about a year and while she lived in Director District #3 at the time of filing, she told me that she was moving to a new home that is in another director district within the month. I asked the Kitsap County Auditor's office about this and they confirmed that she can still run for election, but she would only be able to serve for two years of the four year term since she has moved out of the Director District. My opinion is that if a candidate finds that they are unable to fulfill the terms of the office (in this case, a four year term) before the election, they have a responsibility to the voters to withdraw. There are two candidates in this race that can fulfil the full term of the office.
To see a video of the candidates when they were interviewed by the Kitsap Sun Editorial Board, please click here.
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
The "Death with Dignity" Issue
I blogged this to a KitsapSun.com blog discussion earlier this evening regarding the "Death with Dignity" debate...
Such a situation would be amongst my worst nightmares. Yet, who would or could say “no” to being there with a loved one or close friend who asked you to be there? Frankly, I’d have a very difficult time saying “no” to a stranger who made that request, let alone a loved one.
I’m trying very hard to avoid judgment because I know that perspective sometimes changes when one is, by circumstance, faced with a situation that seems so clear-cut from afar, but is so much more complicated when you are in the midst it.
Thus, my post tonight isn’t to provide some great wisdom on the issue. It is simply an observation that judging anyone either way on this issue is no one’s role but God’s.
My pregnancy with my first child was complicated and required medical attention from the get go. At six weeks gestation, we had our first ultrasound and at that moment… in that moment… I fell in love with her. Until that moment, I had a position on abortion. But from that moment forward, it was as if God spoke directly to my heart and settled any question of what was right and wrong for me on the abortion issue.
I pray that God grants me the grace to never have to face a “death with dignity” situation with my family. And yet, should that ever happen, all I can hope for is that God speaks to my heart to know what to do, just as He spoke to my heart the day I first laid eyes on that little embryo… who is going to be a senior in high school in 4 days….
There are many things in this world that I take a strong position about. But there are some things that we will only understand when God, in our moment of need, speaks to our heart and settles the question.
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
Such a situation would be amongst my worst nightmares. Yet, who would or could say “no” to being there with a loved one or close friend who asked you to be there? Frankly, I’d have a very difficult time saying “no” to a stranger who made that request, let alone a loved one.
I’m trying very hard to avoid judgment because I know that perspective sometimes changes when one is, by circumstance, faced with a situation that seems so clear-cut from afar, but is so much more complicated when you are in the midst it.
Thus, my post tonight isn’t to provide some great wisdom on the issue. It is simply an observation that judging anyone either way on this issue is no one’s role but God’s.
My pregnancy with my first child was complicated and required medical attention from the get go. At six weeks gestation, we had our first ultrasound and at that moment… in that moment… I fell in love with her. Until that moment, I had a position on abortion. But from that moment forward, it was as if God spoke directly to my heart and settled any question of what was right and wrong for me on the abortion issue.
I pray that God grants me the grace to never have to face a “death with dignity” situation with my family. And yet, should that ever happen, all I can hope for is that God speaks to my heart to know what to do, just as He spoke to my heart the day I first laid eyes on that little embryo… who is going to be a senior in high school in 4 days….
There are many things in this world that I take a strong position about. But there are some things that we will only understand when God, in our moment of need, speaks to our heart and settles the question.
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
Monday, May 25, 2009
Powell and Ridge are Right!
Finally, "Right" that I can support, endorse, and stand with! Finally!!
A few years ago, I attended the National School Boards Association's (NSBA) annual conference, where Colin Powell was a keynote speaker. Do you know how many moderate Republicans are school board directors? A lot. Frankly, a lot more than you might think. Many are the very people that Powell described to Bob Shieffer (CBS News Chief Washington Correspondent), on Sunday, May 24, 2009, when he was interviewed on Face the Nation (transcript):
"...the number of people identifying themselves as Republicans has dropped significantly, into the low 20s. And among those low 20s, they're not all conservatives. A lot of them are fairly moderate or right-of-center Republicans, who are concerned about the right wing. And they're not that vocal about it, because if you are vocal, you're going to get your voice mail filled up and you're going to get lots of emails, like I did."
Many peers that I chatted with, before and after Powell's speech, spoke of feeling alienated because either they didn't want to be associated with the Republican Party because of it's perceived extremism on social issues or they didn't feel that their local Republican Party really wanted to include them because party "loyalists" shun them as "RINOS" (Republican In Name Only) for their support of public education and moderate social positions. I have had these same quiet conversations with school board directors from across Washington State.
Colin Powell is absolutely right on the mark. If the Republican Party is to regain it's strength, it must do more than just retain a base. It must expand it's base. One more quote from Powell's Face the Nation interview:
Last year, attending a similar conference on federal education issues, one speaker's statement stood out as that "take away" lesson that would not be forgotten. I have long forgotten the speaker's name, but will never forget what he said..."And if we don't do that, if we don't reach out
more, the party is going to be sitting on a very, very narrow base. You can only do two things with a base. You can sit on it and watch the world go by, or you can build on the base. And I believe we should build on the base because the nation needs two parties. Two parties debating each other. But what we have to do is debate and define who we are and what we are and not just listen to diktats that come down from the right wing of the party."
"If you aren't at the table, you are on the menu"
Fellow Republicans, unless we are at the table, our issues will be on the menu. We must learn to select and support candidates that have the ability to get to the table and engage the discussion on the issues most important to our party and our nation.
We cannot get to the table on fiscal issues unless we become more inclusive. We cannot address issues of the size and scope of government unless we are at the table. If we cannot get to the table, the issues will be debated by those who are at the table and Republican views on fiscal conservancy and effective government will not be represented by either conservative or moderate Republicans.
If the extremist Republican Party membership persists with an attitude of, "If I don't get 100% of my way, I'm going to take my ball and go home", then Republicans will continue to sit at home while Democrats and Independents decide the fate of our great nation.
I have very conservative social values. I chose them freely and want my fellow citizens to choose freely their own social values. If they are different than mine, I will still respect them just as I expect them to respect my choices. Getting to the table does not require us to compromise our values. It does require mutual respect. Let us respect our differences as we embrace and value the liberty that so defines our great nation.
Tom Ridge said recently, "...words mean things and how you use words is very important."
As Republicans, let us change our ways so that the words we use mean inclusion rather than exclusion. We have engaged in words and attitudes that have persisted in excluding us from the adult table as if we were children at Thanksgiving dinner relegated to the "kid's table" and forced to eat what is served by the adults who decided the menu.
We can and must earn back seats at the "adult table" where we can help select the menu and be represented and heard. In order to do so, we must first engage one another, in honest debate of the priorities of the Republican Party platform. Then we must engage our fellow citizens, united and inclusive on those issues, and let go of our childish ways.
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
YES FOR SKFD EMS LEVY!
Please vote YES for the South Kitsap EMS Levy!
Last night, on the way to yet another baseball game, I stopped by the County Administration Building to drop off my ballot. I thought the voting deadline was yesterday, but the deadline is May 19th. So, any of you with your ballots still waiting to be returned, get them in!
For more information...
http://www.yesforems.com/default.aspx
Last night, on the way to yet another baseball game, I stopped by the County Administration Building to drop off my ballot. I thought the voting deadline was yesterday, but the deadline is May 19th. So, any of you with your ballots still waiting to be returned, get them in!
For more information...
http://www.yesforems.com/default.aspx
Monday, May 4, 2009
2009 - Seeking Re-Election to the SKSD Board of Directors
I was called by a reporter recently, who asked if I would be seeking re-election to the South Kitsap School Board. When I said, "yes", she asked why. My answer was three-fold...
First, I have served you well as your representative. I have been a strong voice for transparency in what we do and how we spend taxpayer dollars. I have raised questions that, while sometimes aren't the most comfortable of discussions, have promoted increased accountability, responsiveness, and focus on our student achievement priorities. I have engaged you, the public, via blogs, conversation, and email, and have been responsive to concerns, criticism, and in celebrating success.
Second, I have been a strong advocate for public education at local, state, and federal levels. As your elected school board member, I have regularly engaged our state and federal representatives about K-12 education issues. Eighteen months ago, I was elected by my fellow school board members in surrounding local school districts to serve on the Washington State School Director's Association (WSSDA) Legislative Committee. For the past two years, I have also served on the Federal Relations Network. Through these opportunities, the needs of South Kitsap school children and our families have a strong voice in the legislative process on education issues. I will continue to encourage and help to shape education and education finance reform, insist upon fiscal and performance accountability, and promote rigorous student achievement priorities.
Third, my children approved my running again. Their vote mattered most to me in whether to run again. Balance is an art and I am not always the best of artists. Their endorsement of my running again was an approval rating of my efforts in the art of balance. For their approval and patience, I am humbled and grateful.
Each year, as I am honored to preside, with the rest of the School Board, at Graduation Night, I am in awe of the "stories behind the faces" as these wonderful young people walk at Graduation. While I will have a favorite in the Class of 2010 and the Class of 2013, I could not be more proud of each of our graduates and of our community for what you invest in them as taxpayers, parents, teachers, coaches, advisors, friends, and neighbors.
I ask for your support and vote in 2009 because I have demonstrated my commitment to the best possible public education for our children. With your support and vote, you have my commitment to continue to do so for another four years.
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
First, I have served you well as your representative. I have been a strong voice for transparency in what we do and how we spend taxpayer dollars. I have raised questions that, while sometimes aren't the most comfortable of discussions, have promoted increased accountability, responsiveness, and focus on our student achievement priorities. I have engaged you, the public, via blogs, conversation, and email, and have been responsive to concerns, criticism, and in celebrating success.
Second, I have been a strong advocate for public education at local, state, and federal levels. As your elected school board member, I have regularly engaged our state and federal representatives about K-12 education issues. Eighteen months ago, I was elected by my fellow school board members in surrounding local school districts to serve on the Washington State School Director's Association (WSSDA) Legislative Committee. For the past two years, I have also served on the Federal Relations Network. Through these opportunities, the needs of South Kitsap school children and our families have a strong voice in the legislative process on education issues. I will continue to encourage and help to shape education and education finance reform, insist upon fiscal and performance accountability, and promote rigorous student achievement priorities.
Third, my children approved my running again. Their vote mattered most to me in whether to run again. Balance is an art and I am not always the best of artists. Their endorsement of my running again was an approval rating of my efforts in the art of balance. For their approval and patience, I am humbled and grateful.
Each year, as I am honored to preside, with the rest of the School Board, at Graduation Night, I am in awe of the "stories behind the faces" as these wonderful young people walk at Graduation. While I will have a favorite in the Class of 2010 and the Class of 2013, I could not be more proud of each of our graduates and of our community for what you invest in them as taxpayers, parents, teachers, coaches, advisors, friends, and neighbors.
I ask for your support and vote in 2009 because I have demonstrated my commitment to the best possible public education for our children. With your support and vote, you have my commitment to continue to do so for another four years.
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Balancing Needs for Kids and Taxpayers...
Below is a link to SKSD’s line item description of where every levy dollar will go:
Very few school districts go to the detail that SKSD does to show where levy dollars will be spent. In fact of the 279 school districts across the state who have levies, 53 of those districts request the maximum allowed by law (generally 24%, though 44 districts are grandfathered into higher limits). Locally, districts who are “maxed out” include Bremerton, North Kitsap, and Bainbridge Island. South Kitsap takes a more conservative approach, attempting to balance the needs of our students with the needs of our taxpayers. The state wide average is 23.2%. South Kitsap’s average is 20.27%. That will go up to about 21% when the 2009 levy passes (still significantly below the state average).
Of those 279 school districts with outstanding levies (maintenance and bond levies), South Kitsap ranks 231st in total tax rate (1.90 per 1000 in valuation). When the 2009 levy passes, we will move up to 213th (2.27). The state average is 3.15.
If you would like to see a great Powerpoint presentation about the levy, try this link:
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
SKSD LEVY DESERVES YOUR "YES" for KIDS!
Why support the levy?
In 1999, SKHS’s graduation rate was less than 77%. Today it is more than 92%. What does that mean to our community? It means that 15 more students out of every 100 are graduating from high school than were doing so when our levy funding wasn’t stable. WOW!
In 2001, average SKSD 10th grade WASL scores were 58.4% in reading, 37.2% in math, and 48.5% in writing. In 2008, those averages were 84.1% in reading, 53.4% in math, and 87.9% in writing. These strong gains were possible because levy funds provide opportunities for improved curriculum adoptions, technology that facilitates differentiated instruction for students, and extended learning opportunities (amongst other things)!
Eight years ago, SKSD had one of the oldest fleet of school busses in the state. Many were past their depreciation point which made the district ineligible for state funds to replace busses. Thanks to stable levy funding for the past 8 years, we have been able to improve the fleet and are now eligible for state funds that allow us to regularly replace aging busses.
Eight years ago, our secondary music program was nearly non-existant. Extra-curricular programs like athletics, band, and theatre, were stripped to the bare bones. Thanks to stable levy funding, these programs have flourished and infused a sense of belonging, leadership skills, and creativity into our students. These programs have also helped kids stay motivated to stay in school.
As an example of the forward progress, on New Years Day 2010, the SKHS Band has been extended a rather exclusive honor to perform in the Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena. Our choirs and bands are winning awards across the state and across the nation these days. Students take pride in marching with the SKHS Band and singing with the choirs.
Strong academics and challenging extra-curricular programs are building leaders in our schools. In fact, in 2008, TWO of our students were accepted into the United States Naval Academy.
Yes, levy funding is making a difference in the lives of South Kitsap students, the quality of their education, and the strength of our South Kitsap Community!
In 1999, SKHS’s graduation rate was less than 77%. Today it is more than 92%. What does that mean to our community? It means that 15 more students out of every 100 are graduating from high school than were doing so when our levy funding wasn’t stable. WOW!
In 2001, average SKSD 10th grade WASL scores were 58.4% in reading, 37.2% in math, and 48.5% in writing. In 2008, those averages were 84.1% in reading, 53.4% in math, and 87.9% in writing. These strong gains were possible because levy funds provide opportunities for improved curriculum adoptions, technology that facilitates differentiated instruction for students, and extended learning opportunities (amongst other things)!
Eight years ago, SKSD had one of the oldest fleet of school busses in the state. Many were past their depreciation point which made the district ineligible for state funds to replace busses. Thanks to stable levy funding for the past 8 years, we have been able to improve the fleet and are now eligible for state funds that allow us to regularly replace aging busses.
Eight years ago, our secondary music program was nearly non-existant. Extra-curricular programs like athletics, band, and theatre, were stripped to the bare bones. Thanks to stable levy funding, these programs have flourished and infused a sense of belonging, leadership skills, and creativity into our students. These programs have also helped kids stay motivated to stay in school.
As an example of the forward progress, on New Years Day 2010, the SKHS Band has been extended a rather exclusive honor to perform in the Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena. Our choirs and bands are winning awards across the state and across the nation these days. Students take pride in marching with the SKHS Band and singing with the choirs.
Strong academics and challenging extra-curricular programs are building leaders in our schools. In fact, in 2008, TWO of our students were accepted into the United States Naval Academy.
Yes, levy funding is making a difference in the lives of South Kitsap students, the quality of their education, and the strength of our South Kitsap Community!
Please vote YES for the levy!
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Pinched Nerves
In December, I began experiencing the pain of a pinched nerve in my back for the first time. When it was intense, it consumed my attention. Now that I'm feeling better, I have been thinking about lessons learned from the experience...
First, someone can be in pain and others around them may not notice. It can be good to be tough, but pain makes one edgy and if people don't see the problem they may think that your edginess is because of them and not realize that you are wincing at something other than them.
Second, a pain in one area can completely mask the pain in another area. While the pinched nerve was intense, it sometimes made me forget all about the chronic pain I have had for six years in my left shoulder (due to an injury). It made me think about how this also happens with people and with organizations at times. Our state revenue problems are very real. But the current crisis is masking long held problems (like our failure to prioritize government spending).
Third, pain can lead one to desperate choices. At first I told the doctor that I didn't want strong drugs that would interfere with driving, working, or taking care of two kids. That lasted about three days before the doc got a desperate call for something stronger and I made an appointment with a chiropractor. My doctor was kind enough to spare me the "I told you so".
First, someone can be in pain and others around them may not notice. It can be good to be tough, but pain makes one edgy and if people don't see the problem they may think that your edginess is because of them and not realize that you are wincing at something other than them.
Second, a pain in one area can completely mask the pain in another area. While the pinched nerve was intense, it sometimes made me forget all about the chronic pain I have had for six years in my left shoulder (due to an injury). It made me think about how this also happens with people and with organizations at times. Our state revenue problems are very real. But the current crisis is masking long held problems (like our failure to prioritize government spending).
Third, pain can lead one to desperate choices. At first I told the doctor that I didn't want strong drugs that would interfere with driving, working, or taking care of two kids. That lasted about three days before the doc got a desperate call for something stronger and I made an appointment with a chiropractor. My doctor was kind enough to spare me the "I told you so".
Fourth, I have to admit that the experience caused me to wonder whether I am sometimes a pinched nerve to others and how I might be a better team player this coming year. That being said, there are things to learn from pinched nerves.
Which brings me to my final lesson learned. Sometimes life makes one slow down. Instead of fighting it, it can be very healthy to make the most of it. Whether individually or in the case of an organization, we can learn a lot from the things that cause us to slow down and change our perspective a bit.
Happy New Year!
May the new year bring you joy in your journey and the wisdom to gleen perspective in all that you experience.
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
The Real Win...
Slightly modified from a comment I made on another website...
Today we will elect a new President. There will be a winner and a loser in this election. The one who lost will return to his "regular" life as a United States Senator. The one who won will begin preparation for a smooth transition of power.
And therein lies the win for the citizens of the United States of America. Whether it is President-Elect Obama come Wednesday morning or President-Elect McCain, the citizens of the United States of America will still wake to enjoy the freedoms ensured by our Constitution and Bill of Rights; free to declare who they voted for without fear of goon squads arriving at their door, free to teach their children how to respect the office of President of the United States because he was elected and will take power by the will of the people without a single gun fired in the process, free to stand amidst those who voted for either candidate with an extended arm of citizenship and pride because we are all citizens of this great nation.
Of course, we could also wake up on Wednesday morning with hate in our eyes and venom in our tongues. But what good would that serve this nation? What example does that set for the world?
On election day I vote my conscience and respect my fellow Americans to do the same. And on Wednesday, wherever the votes lead, I am grateful to be a citizen of the UNITED States of America.
Today we will elect a new President. There will be a winner and a loser in this election. The one who lost will return to his "regular" life as a United States Senator. The one who won will begin preparation for a smooth transition of power.
And therein lies the win for the citizens of the United States of America. Whether it is President-Elect Obama come Wednesday morning or President-Elect McCain, the citizens of the United States of America will still wake to enjoy the freedoms ensured by our Constitution and Bill of Rights; free to declare who they voted for without fear of goon squads arriving at their door, free to teach their children how to respect the office of President of the United States because he was elected and will take power by the will of the people without a single gun fired in the process, free to stand amidst those who voted for either candidate with an extended arm of citizenship and pride because we are all citizens of this great nation.
Of course, we could also wake up on Wednesday morning with hate in our eyes and venom in our tongues. But what good would that serve this nation? What example does that set for the world?
On election day I vote my conscience and respect my fellow Americans to do the same. And on Wednesday, wherever the votes lead, I am grateful to be a citizen of the UNITED States of America.
Regards of the NW,
Kathryn Simpson
Monday, October 13, 2008
An Open Letter - the "SEED" Project
Port of Bremerton Commissioners,
As assertively and respectfully as possible, I urge the Port of Bremerton Commissioners to refuse the EDD Grant and end the SEED project, unless it can be accomplished without taxpayer subsidy. We are facing extraordinarily harsh economic times that will require the preservation of property tax dollars for the most necessary priorities of government... infrastructure, law and order, and public education.
If you go forward with betting even more taxpayer funds on the SEED “entrepreneurial activity” (as termed by the Berk Report), you risk the good will of the public to vote yes for real quality of life investments like schools and public services.
Current national economic conditions should be teaching us valuable lessons. We cannot afford to continue to speculate with taxpayer dollars. Speculative investment is not a priority of government. Those who want to speculate on “green” jobs can invest their own funds in the form of venture capital. I would encourage the Port to work with private investors to fund the SEED project. However, I object to any further insistence that taxpayers continue as the only investors in this highly speculative project. The Kitsap County Consolidated Housing Authority tried speculating with the taxpayer's money and we, the taxpayers, lost. Surely you see and understand the parallels.
Our local employers need highly educated high school graduates who have the math, English, and communication skills to grow into a trade or to attend college and return for engineering positions. To attract employees to relocate or remain here, our local employers need to be able to market a high quality of life in Kitsap County, through parks, recreation, and public safety. Every tax dollar that goes towards subsidizing SEED is a tax dollar unavailable for the priorities of government.
Page 45 of the Berk Report is quite clear:
“Establishing an incubator in a location with relatively low levels of immediate research and entrepreneurial activity is a catalytic, market-making venture and so the plan absolutely comes withuncertainties and risks…”
I implore the Port of Bremerton Commissioners to vote NO to further speculative investment of tax dollars in SEED. We have not seen private investment in SEED after three years. We have not seen any commitment of private industry to SEED. It is time to cut our taxpayer losses. We face deficits in the county budget and in the state budget ($3.2 billion and growing). Please give taxpayers some relief and good will. Please focus Port of Bremerton activities on growing jobs that don’t need subsidies from taxpayers.
Thank you for your consideration.
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
Citizen within the Port District
As assertively and respectfully as possible, I urge the Port of Bremerton Commissioners to refuse the EDD Grant and end the SEED project, unless it can be accomplished without taxpayer subsidy. We are facing extraordinarily harsh economic times that will require the preservation of property tax dollars for the most necessary priorities of government... infrastructure, law and order, and public education.
If you go forward with betting even more taxpayer funds on the SEED “entrepreneurial activity” (as termed by the Berk Report), you risk the good will of the public to vote yes for real quality of life investments like schools and public services.
Current national economic conditions should be teaching us valuable lessons. We cannot afford to continue to speculate with taxpayer dollars. Speculative investment is not a priority of government. Those who want to speculate on “green” jobs can invest their own funds in the form of venture capital. I would encourage the Port to work with private investors to fund the SEED project. However, I object to any further insistence that taxpayers continue as the only investors in this highly speculative project. The Kitsap County Consolidated Housing Authority tried speculating with the taxpayer's money and we, the taxpayers, lost. Surely you see and understand the parallels.
Our local employers need highly educated high school graduates who have the math, English, and communication skills to grow into a trade or to attend college and return for engineering positions. To attract employees to relocate or remain here, our local employers need to be able to market a high quality of life in Kitsap County, through parks, recreation, and public safety. Every tax dollar that goes towards subsidizing SEED is a tax dollar unavailable for the priorities of government.
Page 45 of the Berk Report is quite clear:
“Establishing an incubator in a location with relatively low levels of immediate research and entrepreneurial activity is a catalytic, market-making venture and so the plan absolutely comes withuncertainties and risks…”
I implore the Port of Bremerton Commissioners to vote NO to further speculative investment of tax dollars in SEED. We have not seen private investment in SEED after three years. We have not seen any commitment of private industry to SEED. It is time to cut our taxpayer losses. We face deficits in the county budget and in the state budget ($3.2 billion and growing). Please give taxpayers some relief and good will. Please focus Port of Bremerton activities on growing jobs that don’t need subsidies from taxpayers.
Thank you for your consideration.
Regards,
Kathryn Simpson
Citizen within the Port District
Kitsap County Commissioner Endorsement
I had a unique opportunity a few evenings ago to have an extended conversation with Tim Matthes about the state of the county and our most pressing issues. Tim Matthes has a strong understanding of our economic condition, the needs of our citizens, and where we need to prioritize tax dollars.
Tim understands how issues affect each other and how other jurisdictions affect county issues and county citizens. Tim says it is important to prioritize the duties of county government, fund within the resources available, and exercise fiduciary responsibility, especially in difficult times.
I support Tim Matthes because he is the candidate who appreciates the need for developing our business base while still protecting our ability to fund the priorities of local government and preserving a high quality of life.
Economic development and a high quality of life are not mutually exclusive. Tim Matthes understands this. His opponent didn't earn a second term (or the seat back four years ago either) because it appeared to many (myself included) that she didn't understand the need to find win-win solutions.
In a recent Kitsap Sun article, his opponent states that she has learned a lot about "common ground" since then. Perhaps she has. However, electing her again would be quite a risk to find out.
Economic development and a high quality of life are not mutually exclusive. Tim Matthes understands this. His opponent didn't earn a second term (or the seat back four years ago either) because it appeared to many (myself included) that she didn't understand the need to find win-win solutions.
In a recent Kitsap Sun article, his opponent states that she has learned a lot about "common ground" since then. Perhaps she has. However, electing her again would be quite a risk to find out.
Please vote TIM MATTHES for Kitsap County Commissioner, Position 2.
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