jess and the city

dearest education: will u be my valentine?

2011-03-12T08:38:00.000-08:00

NOTE: There will be a public hearing on the proposed renewal of the Families & Education Levy on Thurs, Feb. 17 at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall. Or if going to a council meeting is not your idea of a hot Thursday night, you can send an email in support of the Levy to your fav City Councilmember. Get their email info by clicking here.

Friends,
OK, so here’s the thing: in Seattle we have a dropout crisis. A full third of Seattle students can't graduate after four years of high school. You read right, ONE THIRD. It’s a crisis. And this is why I’m dedicating this Valentine’s Day to education.

The language for the upcoming Family & Education Levy is currently under review by the City Council and we need an approach that is laser-focused on the kids most at risk of dropping out. As a community, we must be clear and consistent that all students in Seattle should be able to graduate from high school ready for college & career. Here’s how I see this issue:

Students who drop out of school are eight times more likely to be incarcerated and three times more likely to be unemployed than those who do graduate.
The levy can stop the cycle of poverty for these students and their families by ensuring that more resources are being targeted to keep students on track to graduate and to get students who are most at risk of dropping out back on track to graduate.
Knowing that the Seattle Public School district is experiencing a significant budget shortfall, it would be strategic to ensure that schools can access levy funds to pay for non-profit organizations to bring targeted resources to their sites in order to reduce the number of dropouts that their school generates. I think it is critical that non-profit partners are performance driven organizations: that they evaluate their success, and that they are able to leverage levy dollars with funds that they bring to the table.
One such organization, City Year, targets their efforts on curbing the dropout rate in Seattle. They have a clear and measurable mission – to reduce the number of students in Seattle who show one or more of the early warning indicators of dropping out of school by 25% in the next five years. They bring federal Americorps dollars to our district, their corps members cannot replace teachers or instructional assistants and they will leverage every levy dollar three to one.

As noted by Councilmember Burgess in a recent newsletter in support of education, the Levy proposal would collect $231 million in Seattle property taxes over the next seven years, a cost of $124 bucks to the homeowner with an assessed value of about $460k. While this represents an increase from the previous Levy and will be an added burden to property owners, many of us believe it’s a burden our community is willing to assume if it means strong education for all Seattle’s children and everything that goes along with it: a strong economy, an equitable society, a fair justice system, safe streets. The upcoming levy gives our city an incredible opportunity to give a chance to thousands of young people at risk of becoming another statistic.

Come on, be a romantic and join me in a little Valentine’s Day support of a renewed levy that integrates performance-based contracts geared towards leveraging tax dollars and education success. Then consider dropping a note to Council so we can have an impact where it’s needed most – on the young people who, absent intervention, will drop out of school.

Will you be an education valentine with me?

XOX,
Jessie
education valentine & City Year board member

PS: I’m putting together a table for City Year’s upcoming Ripples of Hope gala on April 27th. I’d love to have you join me. Tix are $125. Details are here. Drop me a line if you have an interest!

Props for the pro bono.

2010-09-04T08:59:00.000-07:00

August 31, 2010
Friends,

More than a decade ago, several members of my family made a pact. We “spit and shook” one evening over a bottle of wine, committing to each other that, in an effort to stay involved with our neighborhood’s needs, the Israel/Gonzales clan would always try to give & volunteer with our local Ballard Food Bank. To kick it off, my brother began driving a van once a week to deliver meals to home-bound seniors and then was asked to serve on the Food Bank board. When his board tour ended, I was proud to take his place. In the decade since, the Ballard Food Bank has grown and changed. And it is with great pride that this month we debut our new 10,000 sq ft. home on Leary Ave NW.

Before I tell you about the move, I want to give props where props are due. Two men brought their teams to the project to renovate our new space pro-bono:

Ren Chandler, Founder of Dyna Contracting & Terry Miller, co-Founder of Schultz Miller

While my brother and I come from different political vantage points, we have always agreed that visiting a food bank should not be a degrading or demoralizing experience. It should not keep customers on their heels, but put them on the balls of their feet, ready-and-able to deal with a crappy, crappy situation. (Did you know that nine out of ten of our customers are working families with children or elderly folks on fixed incomes?)

Ren and Terry got it right in the build-out of our new space. It didn’t cost us any more to produce but was thoughtfully designed to be a simple, and yet uplifting place to visit. Anyone who has a habit of product-petting at the Apple store or Metropolitan Market will intuitively get this.

With Ren and Terry’s help, $200k worth of project costs were donated in-kind by folks in the community who swung hammers, painted, brought in appliances, ran electrical, etc. If you’re curious to see the result, swing by Sunday, September 12 at our house-warming – maybe after a weekend stroll through the Ballard Farmers Market.

Ballard Food Bank Open House & Grand Opening Party
Sunday, Sept 12, 11am – 3pm 5130 Leary Avenue NW, Ballard

Bring a donation if you like. There is always a need for food, hygiene and clothing donations in addition to financial contributions. More importantly, bring your family and make a pact to do a little each year in your neighborhood. You can get a commemorative family photo to seal the deal (thanks Jay Dotson Photography !)

I look forward to a day when my 13 year old niece, Lauren, may ask to join the Ballard Food Bank board. I think 18 is a good age to jump in – what do you think? Five years or bust - lots of work to do.

Hope you are well & taking bulls by horns,

Jessie

Ballard Food Bank board of directors
~ serving neighbors in Ballard, Magnolia and Queen Anne ~

New Job. New Jokes.

2010-09-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

June 18th, 2010
Friends,

After a few months of skiing, sailing and enjoying life outta’ the fish bowl, I wanted to update you on fun new things in my world.

I was asked to take a senior role in implementing innovative environmental initiatives for WTD – our clean water utility.

While I'll certainly miss Parks, I now lead the Resource Recovery shop within King County which includes all biosolids production for forest & agriculture lands, energy efficiency, renewable energy and reclaimed water operations. To borrow my friend Eli’s company tag line: we’re “turning useless into useful.”

I’m thrilled to be diving (figuratively!) into the world of utilities. King County WTD deals with all of our storm water and wastewater. Our energy bill for doing so runs about $10 million a year. The fine balance between running an unfailingly-reliable and efficient $113M business operation, environmental envelope-pushing, and innovative public service is right in my wheelhouse.

In the last century we saw “no swimming” signs on Lake Washington beaches finally retired due to the hard work of my colleagues and their predecessors. Over the next 50 years, growth challenges will test us yet again. Now and in the future, I’ll be at your side to meet those challenges.

Hope you're well & taking bulls by horns each day,

Jessie

P.S. While I have a deep respect for my work and its value to the community, “toilet” jokes are not lost on me. I’m keeping a list of the best ones. Bring ‘em on!

Join me May 12th

2010-09-04T08:42:00.000-07:00

April 30, 2010
Friends,

It’s Spring and that means it's time for the City Year "Ripples of Hope" celebration dinner --it will be at the Westin the evening of May 12th, and I really hope you’ll join me at my table! This year we’ll be awarding Bill Ayer and Craig Stewart -- both long-time friends and supporters of City Year.

I know you are asked to support a number of causes. That being said, when it comes to our schools, the facts are startling and we do need your support:

Every 26 seconds a kid drops out of school.

In Seattle, 38% of African American, 54% of Native American and 39% of Hispanic students will give-up on school.

With more than 12 million students projected to drop out over the next decade, it will cost the nation around three trillion dollars - a jaw dropping economic impact.

City Year employs young civic leaders to help students stay on track, get back on track and graduate.

We know who will be dropping out of school in the next five years. The indicators are very clear -- an F in English and/or math; less than a 90% attendance rate; and three or more poor behavior marks.

We know that this will not self correct. Without action, it will only get worse. City Year has a proven track record and provides a different role to teachers - a supportive role for teachers.

We have a plan to get our students back on track, community and schools behind it, and the metrics to show it will work. You heard me talk about a plan on the campaign trail to blanket our worst performing students in Seattle with support and the Harlem Children’s Zone approach. Well, City Year is now working closely with Seattle Schools, community and business leaders to do just that. By 2015, with your help - we will place teams of Corps Members in the four high schools that account for nearly 50% of the dropouts in Seattle (as well as the 21 middle and elementary schools that feed into those four high schools.)

Please join me -- you can click here to register: http://www.cityyear.org/seattleripples.aspx

I promise a fabulous evening. I'm counting on seeing you on the 12th (if not before). You won’t be disappointed!

Jessie

Not fired up yet? Check out this video about the leaders working with City Year across the country and our Whole School/Whole Child program that’s coming to Seattle! Really cool stuff!
http://www.cityyear.org/video_WholeSchoolWholeChild.aspx

A quick read about a new park.

2010-03-18T11:43:00.000-07:00

Friends,

Today’s Seattle Times weekend section casts a spotlight on a project King County Parks has been working on over the past few years. It brings me a great deal of pride to see the work of such a wonderful partnership unveiled for the world.

Many thanks to my team at Parks and the trail builders at Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance.

It's a quick read if you have a moment and want to peek into a world where adventure sports, conservation and innovation all come together.

Hope you are well and enjoying the sun!

Jessie
____________________
SEATTLE TIMES: Thrill Ride at Duthie Hill: King County Partnered with Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, Giving Birth to a Bouncing New Bike Park on the Eastside

A new kind of partnership
Public parks agencies used to do it all: own the park, construct paths, maintain improvements, and so on.

But stretched resources spawn innovation, such as the partnership program that has created the Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park.

Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance wanted more Eastside bike trails. King County Parks, through its Community Partnerships and Grants Program, handed over basic construction money and signed up the mountain bike group and its scores of volunteers to build the bike park on county land.

Through the program, user groups, sports associations and recreation clubs of all kinds help develop public recreation facilities in a manner that doesn't result in new publicly funded operations and maintenance costs. They build it, they maintain it. And the general public benefits. Click here to read more...

Feb 8th I turn 36. Feb 9th your School Levy ballot is due.

2010-01-20T07:57:00.000-08:00

SCHOOL LEVY VOTE FEB 9th. BALLOTS ARRIVE THIS WEEK. (Please send it in before it finds a home between the sofa cushions.)

Friends,

A quick note to let you know about two items of note for early February:
• Feb 8th I turn 36.
• Feb 9th your School Levy ballot is due.

And while birthdays come and go, this School Levy renewal is critical.

Over the past year you have heard me wax on about the future of transit, safety, the economy and our schools. On all fronts we still have work to do. Last session the Legislature was forced to cut a billion and a half dollars from K-12 education. Now Seattle schools are facing the renewal of two levies that are a huge chunk of their remaining funding.

These are not new taxes. Proposition 1 and Proposition 2 replace expiring levies. Your ballot will be mailed to you this week. I urge you to support our Seattle Schools by Voting YES and mail in your ballot before my birthday comes 'round.

Proposition 1 provides 100% of the capital improvement budget for Seattle Schools – funding critical health and safety improvements to the buildings where kids spend the vast majority of their lives.

Proposition 2 State and federal funding does not cover the basic, high quality education that our children deserve. This levy provides 23% of our Seattle Public Schools day-to-day operations budget keeping class sizes smaller, and paying for teachers, librarians, counselors, textbooks and supplies.

To victory and aging –
Jessie

Want to do more?

Donate to the campaign. Tough economic times affect all of us. That being said, I’ve donated $150 to the campaign (and will be drinking drip coffee this month). Would you be willing to match my contribution in full or part? Click here to donate.

Spread the word. Already spent your coffee fund? That’s ok, you can still send an email to ten Seattle friends urging them to mail in their ballot and vote YES. Click here for a sample email.

The verdict is in.

2009-11-05T13:46:00.000-08:00

Dear friends,

It’s been an amazing year and I do not regret one thing. Politics is a contact sport and we all take hits along the way. The challenge is learning how to collide without falling down. After a good night’s sleep the verdict is in: I had fun and remain on the balls of my feet, ready for action.

My style has always been to look inward, and then expand. So here’s what I learned:

History is to be learned from and treasured, but cannot be allowed to paralyze us when action is required. We are changing. The outdated model of digging in our heels to avoid any change is on its last leg. The new model we must embrace is to grow with grace, innovation and compassion. David Brewster coined it best over the past few days, “Seattle and the region badly need a new narrative...” With that, a New Urbanism narrative is coalescing. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, these are exciting times for our great city.

We need more women and people of color in the game.

Seattle is full of wonderful, thoughtful people. They remain our best asset if we find them and listen with an earnest ear.

I jumped into a challenging race because it was the right thing to do. I may not have been elected in this go-round, but that doesn’t allow any of us to sit back and watch -- there is too much to be done.

Keeping families in Seattle means building affordable neighborhoods families want to live in. Getting citizens engaged in local issues means we demand leaders who bicker less and solve more; leaders resist the urge to punt; leaders who innovate.

A heartfelt congratulations to all those who were elected. We expect much of you!

Defining our new urban narrative in a pragmatic and sustainable way continues to be my work. Ensuring we keep a sharp focus on ordinary neighborhood concerns like safety, schools, jobs and mobility. Ensuring we are working together as a region.

I’m thrilled to continue this next chapter with you at my side and remain grateful of your investment in me.

Onward,

Jessie

P.S. This is a worthwhile election season recap and a quick read – and not just because Brewster said lovely things about me! Crosscut – What I liked about this election.

All that's left: REMEMBER TO VOTE!

2009-11-02T15:18:00.000-08:00

Friends,

There are just 30 short hours left before election results start coming in. Please, REMEMBER TO VOTE and remind others in your life - from your spouse to your mom, from your hairdresser to your grocer!

The election night party starts at 7pm tomorrow.

TEAM JESSIE and TEAM SALLY BAGSHAW will be celebrating together at the Spitfire in Belltown. Come early for drinks and appetizers on us.

THANK YOU to everyone who has supported TEAM JESSIE. We hope to see you tomorrow night!

What do big hair and ballots have in common?

2009-10-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

Friends,

I can’t get Europe’s “The Final Countdown” out of my head. Why is this? Could it be that I really like spandex and big hair? While I do maintain great love for 80’s pop culture, the main reason is THIS IS THE FINAL COUNTDOWN.

After months of campaigning it comes down to these last few hours. We have spent the past year telling Seattle through media, direct mail, TV, door-to-door, on the phones the differences between Nick and myself:

He stalls, I work for solutions.
He talks about public safety, I demand more cops on our streets.
He sues Sound Transit, I Ride the Wave.

At the end of this campaign I want to walk away knowing that we did all we could to take back our city. I want to make sure that there wasn’t a voter that could have heard the message that didn’t because I was tired or uninspired that day.

I know that you all are counting down with me and I appreciate your willingness to step up, persuade loved ones, and convince your neighbors. Here are a few last opportunities to be a part of this team:

We are doorbelling & phone banking until the end. Every day there is an opportunity. I buy pizza for those who turn out.
November 2nd and 3rd we will be waving signs during commute hours at several locations to remind folks to mail their ballots.
Election night the party starts at 7pm. The results are in by 8:15pm. TEAM JESSIE and TEAM SALLY BAGSHAW will be celebrating together at the Spitfire in Belltown.

For all of the above, email the boss (jessecabrand@gmail.com, 206-321-7723) to get details.

I couldn't have done this without you. These next few days, we’re aiming to do what Europe never could: lead with the final countdown and end with another hit.

When we win on Tuesday, I promise it will all be worth it.

Jessie

(and the Jessie for Seattle team)

P.S. If you havn't heard the song "The Final Countdown," then click here. And apologies in advance for putting this extremely catchy one-hit-wonder from the '80's in your head. Now that it's there, lets hum our way to victory.

Get Jessie (Israel) on TV!

2009-10-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

Friends,
We have eight days left to reach our final fundraising goal which allows us to blanket the airwaves with our new TV ad (watch here!) before the November 3rd election.

We're more than 1/2 way to our goal of raising the FINAL $15,000 that will allow us to dominate cable TV and we need your help! Over the past year we’ve raised $174,382 together. This is the 11th hour - the final few thousand dollars to get us to the finish line.

Can you help us with a donation of $100, $250, or $700 to help us show our ad on television head-to-head against the ads of our opponent?

This is an amazing opportunity to connect with audiences who will turn out to vote but may not make it through every race on the ballot. The ad will help them put a name with a face – critical to our success with last minute voters.

Together we will build a safe, vibrant and sustainable Seattle that gets things done. Jessie is so proud to have such wonderful supporters. She would be prouder still to spend the next four years shoulder to shoulder with you at City Hall.

Help us air our Jessie for Seattle television ad by making a donation today! Or if you’ve made a pledge but have yet to push SUBMIT, now is the time.

Thank you!!

Linda Mitchell

Finance Chair, Jessie for Seattle

PS – More information to follow, but if you’re looking for a party on election night, join TEAM BAGSHAW and TEAM JESSIE for our joint party at the Spitfire in Belltown!

Attention all Introverts

2009-10-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

Calling all introverts and their extrovert friends!

We are 13 days out. Making sure everyone votes before November 3rd is critical and you can help. Helping me win doesn’t require you to talk to people, doesn’t require you to doorbell with me, doesn't require you to pick up a phone.

Helping me win JUST requires you to sit at a computer for a few minutes and email 10 friends.

The email can be simple:

Hi Friends,
I am voting for Jessie and I hope you will too.
Jessie Israel is my candidate because she shares my values, from working with our public safety professionals to better protect our neighborhoods, to moving forward on transportation projects that have been debated for decades, to standing up for our environment.
When you cast your ballot, please vote for Jessie. She is exactly what Seattle needs!
Thanks,
Your name
P.S. Do not delay, turn your ballot in today! It must be in by November 3rd.

Alright introverts, this has YOU written all over it.

You're the best. Onward -
Jessie

P.S. Want a more detailed email to send? Want to let us know you're spreading the word? Click here!

Seattle Times says Vote Confidently for Jessie Israel

2009-10-15T14:38:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Ballots in the mail!
First mail piece out the door!
4,500 doors knocked on!

And this just in… Seattle Times Endorsement! In their own words:

"In the race for Position 6, Jessie Israel gets The Times's endorsement.

Her opponent, Councilmember Nick Licata has served Seattle well at times with a shrewd eye. But his contrarian streak has done harm. His comments to a national magazine that the Sonics added nothing to the city set a poisonous tone that eventually led to the team moving to Oklahoma City.

Israel brings a fresh perspective to the council. She doesn't look at issues in isolation, preferring, for example, to examine how projects like the Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement or the redesign of Mercer Street fit with other road and transportation projects, and how these projects impact neighborhoods.

Israel's thoughtfulness would be a welcome addition to a council that can be tone-deaf to the daily needs of city residents."

We have just two weeks left to win this! Two weeks left to hit as many voters with our message as possible. I am just $5,000 away from my voter contact budget. That is 10,000 voters that won’t hear my message and vision for our city.

I know I have asked and asked again, but please consider donating today! The maximum gift for an individual is $700. This is a stretch for many but if you have not reached that max and have some room to give I would ask that you do that now!

We are at a critical point in Seattle’s history! We can win back our city from the forces of NO but I need your help.

Thanks,
Jessie

P.S. Give today by going to my website!

three fun events to choose from.

2009-10-12T09:41:00.000-07:00

Hope you'll join us at one of these final fundraising events to support Jessie as we tick down the days till Election Day!

RSVP to Jessieforseattle@hotmail.com for location and details:

Green Development Community Supports Jessie
Join Kym Allen, David Bolin, Sharon Coleman, Liz Dunn, Bert Gregory, Susan Jones, John Kucher, Jim Mueller, Joanie Parsons, Lisa Richmond, Monica Smith, Patti Southard, Jeff Thompson, Todd Vogel, and many more at the home of Greg and Monica Smith in Downtown Seattle on

Tuesday, October 20th from 5:30-7pm

Arts & Cultural Community Supports Jessie
Join James Faulstich, Diana Gale, John Hempelmann, Kevin Hughes, Koryn Rolstad, Stephen Sprenger, Judith Whetzel and others at the Belltown condo of artist Koryn Rolstad on

Wednesday, October 21st from 6-8pm

Moms & Families for Jessie at Gymboree in Ballard
Bring the kids and come by to have some fun and support Jessie!

It's playtime at Gymboree in Ballard at 2622 NW Market Street on

Sunday October 25th from 4:30-6pm

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Can't make it but still want to help Jessie win?

Now is not the time for stalling. Now is the time for leadership.

2009-10-01T10:20:00.000-07:00

Friends,

I don’t like talking about the viaduct any more than the rest of you. In fact I can’t believe that we are still talking about it even after the Mayor, Governor, King County Executive and just about everyone else thought the decision was final.

But just last weekend my opponent in a classic move of stall and stall again asked that we take some more time on discussing funding for the tunnel. Read here.

Who can forget the faces of the families as they watched the Interstate 35 West Bridge collapse in Minneapolis in 2007? Or the double decker bridge in San Francisco as it was coming down unexpectedly. How many times have you driven over the Alaskan Way Viaduct and thought “please don’t have an earthquake right now, please.” These are the reasons we need to move forward with the deep bore tunnel, NOW.

While my opponent was stalling, I presented a plan to address neighborhood crime and a plan for disaster preparedness. You can read more at my website.

I’m calling for 200 more police to be on the ground in 2010. I have heard too many stories about home invasion affecting the elderly and women who are home alone, or joggers that are being held up at gunpoint for their wallets while trying to enjoy our parks.

The time for stalling is over. The time for action is now!

I have just three short weeks to get my message to voters. I have a compelling story, a vision for our city and a history of getting things done.

What I don’t have is 12 years of name recognition and a huge financial war chest.
What I need is a donation from you so that we can move this campaign to the finish line, and get our city headed in the right direction. I thank those of you who have given before, but ask you to please consider giving again. To those of you that have not given, I ask for your help today.

Thanks,

Jessie

P.S. Our deadline is three weeks away, on October 15th, we will be sending what we have to the printer and finalizing mailing lists and outreach numbers. The upper limit for donations is $700 per individual, please give what you can!

200 Beat Cops NOW (Jessie's Public Safety Plan)

2009-09-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

Friends,
We've got 35 days until election day and have been out knocking on doors since the primary. We've hit almost 3000 doors in Mt Baker, Seward Park, Columbia City, West Seattle, Sand Point, View Ridge, Phinney Ridge.

It has been wonderful. It has been what politics should be: face-to-face. A few updates since we began the doorbelling frenzy:

I now wear tennis shoes with everything. Patty Murray watch out!
I've lost five pounds and have a deep respect for West Seattle's hills.
And most importantly: I've heard hundreds of personal stories from residents concerned about the safety of their community.

I wanted to share a few of these stories with you: The Mt. Baker woman who called 911 on behalf of her elderly neighbor as she was witnessing a man entering the neighbor's house in broad daylight. It took the police 45 minutes to get there because the nearest available cop was in Rainier Beach. The friend who was watching television, heard a noise in the back room only to find a someone climbing through the bedroom window. An absolutely horrifying story about a Wallingford woman who was attached while her husband went out to buy diapers for their newborn.

These are the stories that drive me to win. Because we know that the best way to fight crime to have a sharp focus on prevention. For this we need all hands on deck. Property crime has gotten out of control, youth violence has skyrocketed. To me, the problems are clear and the solution is even clearer.

That’s why I’m calling for the addition of 200 more patrol officers immediately, complemented by a strong, strategic focus on mentoring programs.

The fact is we have significantly fewer patrol officers per capita than other cities of our size. We also know that the best indicator for crime is high school drop-out rates and ours are exceedingly high.

Similar to the successful Harlem Children’s Zone strategy, I will fight for a collaborative, targeted approach to blanket our highest risk kids with support from all angles. While the City cannot be a sole source of funding for this type of collaboration, the City must play a leadership role in its success.

I’m encouraged by the Mayor’s budget request for 154 new officers over the next 3 years, but I believe it is not enough and not soon enough. 200 more police officers are needed NOW to deter crime through increased patrols & community outreach programs, and to allow for faster response times to emergency calls.

If we're smart and act decisively, we can turn the tide on crime in our community. Safer communities are stronger communities. To read more about my plan for public safety and how to make Seattle stronger, visit: http://www.jessieisrael.com/default.aspx?ID=49

Best,

Jessie

Sunday News (and Sunday funnies)

2009-09-20T11:00:00.000-07:00

Friends,
A quick note to pass on two recent videos for your viewing enjoyment this weekend. This morning's King 5 Up Front News program is below highlights my race and issues of public safety, term limits and the tunnel.

And on a much lighter note, a spontaneous song by supporters at last week's Capitol Hill neighborhood meet-up brought down the house!

I hope this finds you well!

Jessie

Proud to be endorsed by: Seattle Times, Municipal League: Very Good, Washington Conservation Voters, National Women’s Political Caucus, Cascade Bicycle Club, Alki Foundation (of the Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce), Seattle Firefighters Local 27, Seattle Police Officers Guild, King County Realtors, Rental Housing Association, Building Trades Council, AGC, International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, 34th District Democrats, King County Young Democrats, West Seattle Democratic Women, Allied Arts Foundation, Friends of Seattle, Seattle Transit Blog, Hon. Dan Evans, Hon. Jean Godden, Hon. Jeanne Kohl-Welles, Hon. Reuven Carlyle, Hon. Judy Clibborn, Hon. Deb Eddy, Hon. Sharon Nelson, Hon. Zach Hudgins, Hon. Marcie Maxwell, Hon. Margarita Prentice, Hon. Scott White, Hon. Terry Bergeson, Hon. Bobbe Bridge (ret), Hon. Bill Bryant, Hon. John Creighton, Hon. Gael Tarleton

Today we remember.

2009-09-11T10:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Today we remember those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. I ask you to join me tomorrow at the Memorial stair climb with Seattle Police Officers and Firefighters. Proceeds will honor the heroes of September 11 by supporting the families they left behind.

When: Saturday, September 12 from 8:00am – 12:00pm (I will be starting my climb around 8:30am)
Where: Two Union Square
What: Minimum $20 donation to participate. Proceeds will go to the NYC Widows and Orphans Fund.

There is a reason the Seattle Firefighters Union and The Seattle Police Officers Guild believe it is important that I win this election. I am proud that they are solidly at my side in my campaign to represent you.

Police records show that crime is on the rise in Seattle. Calls to Seattle Police Department involving guns in the first half of 2009 rose by 58% over 2008. Problems with snow-removal during the December storm of 2008 illuminated how vulnerable the City of Seattle is in catastrophic emergency incidents, as Metro transportation routes were disrupted and thousands of area residents were trapped in their homes for almost a week, unable to get to work. They believe in my vision and experience in dealing with these crucial safety issues.

I will be an unwavering advocate for programs that have been proven to prevent youth violence such as placing ‘soft uniformed’ officers in schools to serve as mentors and public safety anchors in the neighborhoods where they’re located.
I will ensure that proper training, equipment, and staffing is available for the City’s emergency responders.
I support fully meet the staffing goal of 615 police officers, up from the current level of 515. This will allow Seattle to increase the number of foot patrols in neighborhoods.
I will provide safety employees with the tools and training to better coordinate with other jurisdictions in times of emergency.
I will make sure we are creating safe and hospitable public spaces across our City.
I will fight to preserve four-person staffing on every fire engine and truck in Seattle, meeting national standards for public and firefighter safety - protecting those who protect us.

If you cannot join me for the stair climb tomorrow, donate a few hours walking the neighborhoods with my campaign. I am out every night of the week talking to voters. Conversations at doorsteps that will make a huge difference in this election and my ability to serve Seattle. I have already knocked on almost 2,000 doors, and the response is overwhelmingly positive. Contact Jesseca Brand at jessecabrand@gmail.com or (206) 321-7723 to walk with me.

Seattle is ready for a change and ready for us to have a sharp focus on the basics of building a safe city.

Today we remember those who serve us and protect our community. Tomorrow we get to work helping them to do their job better, safer, stronger.

Jessie

Protect the rights of Seattle families

2009-08-31T15:25:00.000-07:00

Friends,

Today the anti-gay measure Referendum 71 qualified for the ballot. R71 is aimed at blocking an expansion of domestic Partnership rights was already signed by Governor Gregiore in May. Opponents of gay rights are hoping that the voters will deny equality to the over 5,000 committed LGBTQ domestic partners in Washington State. Let’s prove them wrong!

As a lifetime equal rights advocate, a City Council candidate who is committed to protecting and expanding rights for the LGBTQ community, and a close personal friend to many gay couples, I urge you to start spreading the word about R71 now. We must do all we can to support and protect the diversity that makes Seattle great. We can not tolerate backwards movement on issues of equality. Tell all of your friends and family to get out and vote to approve Referendum 71.

As your next City Councilmember, I will also do my part to continue advocating for the many pressing issues facing the LGBTQ community. Here are some specifics of my platform:

Ensure the coalition at the City is strong fighting to both protect domestic partnerships and for the freedom to marry.
Work with elected officials and police closely to ensure that legislation and police action reflect the seriousness of hate crimes and that these crimes are dealt with proactively and with zero tolerance.
In times of decreasing budgets, protect public health clinics and programs that offer HIV prevention services and counseling.
Require that anti-discrimination laws remain strong, are enforced and that diversity continues to be a focus of HR training.
Work with schools and the non-profit community to create safe spaces for youth who are learning about themselves and their sexuality.
Economic development, tourism and small business support for GLBT owned businesses and businesses that serve the GLBT community.

This is bigger than a City Council campaign – it is about our rights, about our families, the future of our community and we must stand together. Please spread the word to approve Ref-71 and protect domestic partnership laws.

In solidarity,

Jessie

Help Jessie Meet the Neighbors!

2009-08-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

Friends,

This week Jessie and Nick Licata had their first toe-to-toe interview on KUOW. We proudly invite you to listen here: http://www.kuow.org/program.php?id=18275

We know that KUOW listeners are just a fraction of the people we need to reach in this campaign. That’s why Jessie has been out at farmers markets and at neighborhood doors, talking to voters. And we’ve had great feedback so far -- people are telling us that meeting Jessie in their own neighborhood makes all the difference for who they will vote for in November.

On Thursday, we’ll be the first "Neighborhood Meet-Up" in Columbia City home of Lina and Mark (Sept 3, 3511 S Hudson Street, 6-7:30pm)

If you live in South Seattle, please consider joining us. If you live in another neighborhood, consider signing up to host your own Neighborhood Meet Up!

You can also help Jessie "Meet the Neighbors" by:

Knocking on neighborhood doors with Jessie in the evenings or weekends
Dropping literature at voters’ doors during the week (no talking, just walking!)

Give me a call to sign up - we would love to have your help!

(206) 443-1990 or jessecabrand@gmail.com

Jesseca

Jesseca Brand

Campaign Manager

Oh, what a night.

2009-08-19T16:20:00.001-07:00

Primary Election 2009 was everything and more of what we had hoped it would be:

Nick Licata is beatable: about half the people support him and about half do not. For an incumbent, this is a most vulnerable position – especially since Nick received a whopping 78% of the vote in his last election;

The message of this election was change: from the shake up in the Mayor’s race, to the newcomers who were originally thought of as long shots making the general election. This primary election turnout was one of the lowest in Seattle’s history. We will likely see twice the number of voters in November – and General Elections historically bring out many more younger voters – which is great for us;

We have the best set of endorsements: environmentalists, business, public safety, labor, Democrats, women leaders - who have made my race a priority.

We have much work to do and as you would expect, my campaign coffers are depleted. The incumbent is sitting on $40,000 – not insurmountable but formidable. In the next 11 weeks we have $160,000 to raise. $700 is the maximum contribution any individual can make.

The phone has not stopped ringing since last night at 8:15 p.m. Many who were waiting for a “sign” that Nick could be beat are now coming on-board.

So, friends, we have proved we can contend – and that we will give Mr. Licata the race Seattle deserves.

Please help me jump start our General Election campaign. We have the momentum, the team and the energy it will take to make this next City Council one of the best in Seattle’s history. Change is in the wind and we CAN have a City government focused on the issues that matter. The incumbent has become a symbol of why the city has stopped working for our citizens. I pledge to bring the energy, effectiveness, vision and vitality and make our city government relevant once again.

Yes, change is coming and a donation from you will mean more now than it ever has. A strong General Election campaign starts today, with you, and with your donation.

Game on!

Jessie

P.S. The support of friends and strangers so far has been overwhelming and I am grateful. Thank you so much.

Election Day. What to do?

2009-08-17T11:38:00.000-07:00

There's just 32 hours left to vote for new energy, new ideas and new approaches on Seattle City Council!

Less than 15% of ballots issued in Seattle have been returned so far, so every vote will make a difference! Want to help in these final hours of the Primary campaign? Here are a few things you can do to help out:

Send your friends and family an email reminder to cast their votes for Jessie and postmark their ballots by TOMORROW. (Yikes! Miss the mail? To drop a ballot off in person, several drop locations will also be open until 7 PM.)

If facebook is more your style, change your status update to: "Vote by Tuesday: Jessie for the City!"
Join Jessie and a few friends to wave signs tomorrow morning: Tues Aug 18, 7:30 - 9 AM Mercer Street under the pedestrian overpass outside the Intiman Theatre Wear your Jessie for the City t-shirt if you've got one!

Need another reminder of why you should vote for Jessie? Check out recent news stories:

Jessie Israel endorsed by Seattle Times
Seattle Times - [Israel has a holistic view of the city and clear understanding of the issues.]

Licata facing stiff competition for first time in political life
Seattle Times - [Israel, 35, a King County Parks manager, has scored many big-name endorsements in the race, gaining a reputation as a rising political star...In 1989, Licata led an effort to set term limits for City Council members. At the time, as head of the Metropolitan Democratic Club, he told The Seattle Times that candidates who serve for more than three terms become bored, lazy and unimaginative.]

Licata Challenger Israel Frames the Debate
Publicola - [The theme that Israel has identified here is this: Licata is out of step with progress in Seattle, which mostly centers on transportation and density issues. (Sticking to that theme, Israel has also reminded people—as light rail opened this summer—that Licata was involved with the anti-light rail group, Sane Transit.)]

Should Nick Be Nervous?
The Stranger - [Political Newcomer Jessie Israel's Brazen Campaign]

Election 2009 closeup coverage: Council candidate Jessie Israel
West Seattle Blog - [“It is not enough any more to say that ‘I am asking the tough questions’ if you are not getting to the answers that our city needs,” she says. A Councilmember must be able to build coalitions and consensus to get things done, something Israel says Licata is not doing.]

Other news about Jessie for the City!

T minus 100 hours (and more about my priorities)

2009-08-15T13:07:00.000-07:00

Friends,
I have been a lifetime advocate of equity and social justice. And I have a history of tackling tough problems. As your City Council member, I pledge to be a much-needed voice for pragmatic policies that further public health, childcare, education, protection against domestic violence -- basic services for those most in need.

We read every day how health care costs have spiraled out of control, job losses are at an all-time high and funding from County and State programs have been cut to the bone -- stranding many urban families. Particularly now, we must pull together and leverage resources to protect our safety net while we restore the economic growth that government services and non-profit sector rely on.

I am concerned women and children are the fastest growing demographic living in poverty; young black men are disproportionately filling our jails; families are spending too much of their income on housing/childcare/transportation; and overcrowded, underfunded schools are failing our kids. Across the nation leaders are looking for solutions. Some solutions may come in time but many will take too long to help acute needs of Seattle citizens.

Here at the local level, we have no time to waste.

Strengthening community partnerships to leverage funds becomes imperative when we have limited resources. This I know first-hand. It is how we’ve kept almost 180 parks open after being weaned from the County General Fund.

In White Center, I’ve partnered with the Technology Access Foundation (TAF) to leverage $2M in public grant dollars towards building a $15M state-of-the-art community center for teaching underserved children in South Seattle math and technology skills critical to their success. TAF will operate this center for the next 30 years without support from the crippled County General Fund. TAF will become a permanent steward of a park that, frankly, needs a positive permanent onsite presence.

We must be smarter about working hand in hand with non-profit and social service organizations that have existing relationship with families and communities who are often left out of the political process.

These are the times when we must strengthen our safety net for those most in need. I will bring a new proactive approach to the Council to ensure that every Seattle resident has the opportunity to affordable basic services: housing, food, child care and transit.

I am the one candidate in this race who has experience keeping government services strong in times of budget crisis. I am the original government entrepreneur – driven to find better ways to make City Hall, local businesses, neighborhood organizations and civic groups to work creatively, efficiently, and with the smarts and technology to find new paths through entrenched bureaucracy.

As of this morning, only a fraction of Seattle voters have sent in their ballot, please spread the word to VOTE JESSIE ISRAEL for Seattle City Council, position 6 by Tuesday, Aug. 18.

Toward a new day; new approach; new attitude -

Jessie

P.S. To find out more about my priorities when elected, visit my Web site at http://www.jessieisrael.com/.

For Economic Growth--VOTE JESSIE by August 18th!

2009-08-07T16:30:00.000-07:00

In the middle of the worst economic conditions in more than 50 years, many companies in Seattle and across the Northwest are fighting just to survive. An alarming number are cutting back, or have disappeared altogether, resulting in the loss of tens of thousands of jobs for Seattle families. These industries can't afford redundancy or inefficiency in the government processes that influence their operations. The City must bring the same sense of urgency and quickness to government processes that business requires to stay competitive.

As City Council candidate, Jessie Israel is working to help Seattle improve our economic climate by supporting policies that preserve our high quality of life and attract world class companies and workers. This means:

great public education,
safe streets,
housing workers can afford,
parks and open space,
transportation infrastructure and cost effective alternatives to promote movement of people and goods and that offers residents attractive, reliable, low-cost transportation options

Jessie's vision for economic growth and recovery in Seattle is based on three fundamental principles:

Economic and job growth are preconditions for community health. Government services and the non-profit sector rely on a strong economy. These sectors will not be able to recover until the foundation of job growth and economic growth are stabilized.
Government process must be competitive, fair and efficient. From business taxes to permitting process - decisions about fees and policy mandates must take into account how policies are implemented and ensure the ends justify the means.
Innovation will drive long-term growth. We must seize opportunities for new economic sectors that will drive the global economy in years to come. Growing sectors including global health, biotech, renewable energy, energy efficiency.

Over the past five years, Jessie has converted the King County Parks into an efficient, performance-driven organization, ensuring that 25,000 acres of open space remains open to the public even during tough fiscal times.

Jessie's success with Parks is the track record of an entrepreneur transforming government to work harder for citizens.

You can help improve Seattle's economic climate by spreading the word about Jessie's vision for our City and her history of bringing new ideas and new energy to tackle problems facing our community.

Be sure to vote for Jessie for City Council, and return your primary ballot postmarked by August 18.

Seattle Times: Licata facing stiff competition for first time in political life

2009-08-07T16:29:00.000-07:00

Nick Licata once said candidates who serve for more than three terms become bored, lazy and unimaginative. Read more http://bit.ly/17TFrN

Volunteer and CELEBRATE with Jessie this Saturday!!

2009-07-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

Ballots arrive this week!

Join us this Saturday (August 1) as we hit the streets to deliver Jessie's message to voters and remind them to mail in their ballots.

And then relax and celebrate a day well spent at the very cool Greenwood Collective for beer and chips. Bring your own ballot - we'll have pens and stamps for purchase or BYOS-- Bring Your Own Stamps!

Join us at either or both of these fun events!

Saturday August 1
10am - 2pm

Help Jessie get her message out,
deliver campaign literature to doorsteps in Magnolia!
Meet at the Magnolia Starbucks - 3300 West McGraw Street
Contact: 909-215-3769

3pm - 5pm

PARTY TIME @ The Greenwood Collective!
Bring your ballots, we'll have pens and stamps for purchase or BYOS-- Bring Your Own Stamps! (and a keg and snacks!)
The Greenwood Collective- 8537 Greenwood Ave. N. Suite 1
$25 suggested donation or whatever you can do!
RSVP: jessieforseattle@hotmail.com

Jessie's ON FIRE this week!

2009-07-26T12:34:00.000-07:00

July 24, 2009
Friends,

THIS JUST IN! Jessie has received the SOLE ENDORSEMENT of the SEATTLE FIRE FIGHTERS UNION!

In other great news this week, Jessie received the SOLE ENDORSEMENT of the ALLIED ARTS FOUNDATION. This only further demonstrates the wide base support for Jessie's campaign.

AND, can you believe Jessie tied 12 year incumbent Nick Licata to get VERY GOOD in the MUNI-LEAGUE ratings?

The Muni-League is a non-partisan, non-special interest group, and its ratings are an objective citizen review of how qualified candidates are to do the job. The ratings are determined by a lengthy process including a questionnaire, interview of the candidate and interview of the candidate's references. Jessie's success in these ratings just goes to show that she is ready to hit the ground running on day one as your next Seattle City Councilwoman!

Help us keep up this great momentum as we head full force into the primary election on August 18th. We have some great opportunities for you to participate:

WALK FOR JESSIE, TALK FOR JESSIE and EMAIL FOR JESSIE. To sign up contact Claire at (206) 443-1990 or Claire@connectionsgroup.org

WALK WITH JESSIE - A walk in the sun simply leaving literature at the doorstep of Seattle homes. That's right-- No talking, just walking. Saturday August 1st, 10 AM - 2 PM
PARTY WITH JESSIE - from 3-5 PMGreenwood Collective: 8537 Greenwood Ave. N. Suite 1$25 suggested donationBring your own ballot - we'll have pens and stamps (for purchase of BYOS--Bring Your Own Stamps!!RSVP: jessieforseattle@hotmail.com
TALK FOR JESSIE - Calling voters and reminding them to send in their ballot with a vote for Jessie! Tuesday August 11th, Wednesday August 12th and Thursday August 13th at 5:30 PMMeet at The Connections Group 600 Stewart St, Suite 1300
EMAIL FOR JESSIE - Gather emails for 50 of your friends. Then either send them personalized notes asking them to send in their ballot for Jessie (Click here for a sample note!) OR, you can send the list to us and we'll do it for you!

Time is almost up--Help get the word out!

2009-07-26T12:27:00.000-07:00

July 21, 2009

Friends,
Primary election ballots arrive next week and I need your help in these last few days.
My list of incredible endorsements just keeps growing! I'm proud to be supported by a wide range of organizations, individuals, and business and community leaders. Over the last few weeks I've been honored to receive the endorsements of the Seattle/King County Building Trades, the King County Young Democrats, and the Seattle Police Officers Guild with more coming every day!

Recent polling shows that more 70% of likely voters are undecided in this race. That means this race is wide open and I am well positioned to win over those voters. I need your help to get my message to them in time for them to make their ballots and vote in the PRIMARY ELECTION ON AUGUST 18th!

As a Seattle City Councilmember I will:

champion safe, vibrant, walkable communities
make smart investments in transportation, transit, and energy efficiency
harness innovation, improve decision-making, and bring public and private partners to the table to strengthen businesses and create jobs

But I need your help! Please make a donation of $25 or $50 TODAY to help us get the word out!
What else can you do to help?

Walk with us! We will be devoting four hours on two Saturday afternoons (THIS weekend on July 25th and NEXT weekend on August 1st) to drop off Jessie literature to homes of voters--Join us!
Tell your friends! Forward this email to your friends and networks and let them know why you are supporting me in this race, and remind them to VOTE ON AUGUST 18th!!

Will you help today?
Thank you!

Jessie

P.S. Join us at some of these great events!
TONIGHT July 21st, 5-7pm at Suite 410, 410 Stewart St., Belltown/Seattle
FRIDAY July 24th, 5-7pm at the Watermark Tower, 1107 1st Ave. WestEdge/Seattle
and
SATURDAY August 1st, 3-5pm at the Greenwood Collective, 8537 Greenwood Ave. N. Suite 1, Seattle

Get on board with Jessie Israel!

2009-07-26T12:22:00.000-07:00

July 16th, 2009
Dear fellow Jessie supporter,

This weekend, inaugural trains along Sound Transit's new light rail system will make history, running between Seattle's downtown and Tukwila. As they proceed through the International District, Columbia City, Beacon Hill, and South Seattle, one of the riders on board will be Jessie Israel..

Did you know that studies show transportation is responsible for over half our carbon footprint? Better transportation options lessen air pollution and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by taking cars off the road. In addition to environmental benefits, transportation innovations also promote economic recovery, helping keep jobs in our city. They enhance the competitiveness of Seattle-based companies by reducing highway delays for freight and other business uses. They allow Seattle companies to recruit a broader base of employees because better transportation alternatives are available to their workforce.

As City Council candidate, Jessie is pushing to strengthen Seattle's transportation policy. She advocates for the city's highest priority to be smart, efficient investment in transportation infrastructure. In addition to ensuring the safety of roads, bridges, and tunnels, Jessie is ready to use her successful public/private partnership experience to lead outreach to regional governments and agencies and create more transportation choices for Seattle citizens and help us absorb projected growth of more than 1.2 million people over the next two decades. And she's encouraging zoning and tax incentives that promote transit-oriented development at bus, light rail, and streetcar hubs. She will work to enhance investment in awareness campaigns to promote public use of innovative transportation alternatives.

By contrast, Jessie's opponent, a 12-year incumbent on the Council, is on record opposing the new light rail system that begins operation this weekend. He signed a letter to US Senator Patty Murray, in October of 2002 that said, "We believe continued funding and planning for light rail in Seattle leaves us further behind and further divided."

You can strengthen Seattle's transportation policy by spreading the word about Jessie's vision, and bold, new leadership. She's what we need to keep our city green and our businesses competitive.

If you're an earlier riser I urge you to join Jessie at the ribbon-cutting ceremony this Saturday at 8AM at the Mount Baker station. If not, be sure to grab a free ride this weekend at any light rail station! Check them out by clicking here.

Sincerely,

Frank Paganelli

Check out this WCV video to see the environmental issue I'm most passionate about!

2009-07-24T10:29:00.001-07:00

Calling all 34th & 36th LD Democrats!

2009-07-07T12:03:00.000-07:00

We have two very important endorsement meetings coming up this week and I could use your help:

On Wednesday night: the 34th LD Democrats endorsement meeting
On Thursday night: the 36th LD Democrats endorsement meeting

If you are a voting member of the 34th or the 36th LD Democrats, I urge you to come to your respective meeting and cast your vote in support of my campaign.

And if you are not a member of the 34th or the 36th LD, but you want to support a positive vision for Seattle's future, join us at one of these fun upcoming events:

Thursday, July 9th from 6-8pm: Join us on the deck for Food, Wine, and Politics-- Liz Dunn hosts at Dunn & Hobbes LLC! @1429 12th Ave. Seattle on Capitol Hill (Piston and Ring Building, Lower Level).
Wednesday, July 15th from 6-8pm: Join us on the terrace at the home of jewelry designer Marilyn Berg, Shop for jewelry by Marilyn, handbags by Isabella Fiore, watches by TUTU, cool antiques, clothing, accessories and more! RSVP 206-920-8001 or mbibeads@aol.com. Donations to Jessie's Campaign gratefully accepted and a portion of the proceeds will be donated! @Waterfront Landing, 1950 Alaskan Way #126 (look for the balloons).
Tuesday, July 21 from 5-7pm: Chill at this very cool hot spot and support Jessie! @410 Stewart St. in Belltown
Friday, July 24th from 5-7pm: Join John Hempelmann, Gabe Grant and friends! @Watermark Tower, 1107 1st Ave (1st & Spring)

We NEED leadership that is innovative, inclusive and - most importantly - decisive. We can no longer afford to sit around and watch what can be stopped, stalled, or studied again. We need fresh new energy - not inactivity and inefficiency.

I have proven myself to be a strong, positive force to ensure transit, the environment, and innovative infrastructure by earning the SOLE ENDORSEMENTS of WASHINGTON CONSERVATION VOTERS, CASCADE BIKE CLUB and most recently, the SEATTLE BUILDING TRADES.

On the City Council, I promise to bring new energy and to focus on what truly CAN be done and I would be honored to add the 34th and 36th LD's to the growing list who believe in supporting the new generation of pragmatic, proactive leadership.

Please help to spread the word to your district! See you at an upcoming event! Onward!

Jessie

Proud to be endorsed by: National Women's Political Caucus, West Seattle Democratic Women, Washington Conservation Voters, Alki Foundation, Cascade Bicycle Club, King County Realtors, Rental Housing Association, Building Trades Council, Hon. Reuven Carlyle, Hon. Scott White, Sen. Jeanne Kohl-Welles, Hon. Zach Hudgins, Hon. Sharon Nelson, Hon. Bobbe Bridge (ret), Hon. Marcie Maxwell, Hon. Gael Tarleton, Hon. John Creighton, Hon. Bill Bryant, Hon. Richard Cole, Hon. Connie Niva, Hon. Jean Godden.

"Candidate most likely to think out-of-the-box"

2009-06-25T22:24:00.000-07:00

Friends,

Last night the Seattle Great City Initiative pulled together a candidate competition of the culinary persuasion. Head-to-head against tough competition, I brought home GOLD with a summer salad.

The award: "Candidate most likely to think out-of-the-box and bring unlikely ingredients together"

The recipe is below. I'm honored by the title granted by a panel of celebrity judges and restaurateurs. My new title begs the question: Why does it matter if we have out-of-the-box thinkers and folks who can bring unlikely groups together on our City Council? Here are my thoughts:

1) Seattle government cannot solve it alone. Going it alone will not give us enough housing, a job growing economy, education that serves our kids, or the environmental investments we need to clean up the Sound. Particularly in light of a debilitating financial crisis in the public sector, I will ensure we're much more strategic and collaborative in how we serve citizen basic needs.

2) Welcome to Seattle. We innovate here. From coffee to software, we know how to make opportunity where none existed before. (A friend and supporter of mine at Blue Marble Energy is now making clean renewable energy out of algae!!) We must seize opportunities for new economic sectors that will drive the global economy in years to come. We must embrace out-of-the-box ideas and partnerships. We must bring communities together and leverage resources to keep critical public services strong and run smart government in a time of shrinking budgets.

Now is not the time for old ideas but fresh new ideas and new energy on the City Council.

I've spent the past five years thinking "out of the box" and bringing unlikely partners together in order to keep King County Parks in business and 25,000 acres open to the public. If a summer salad can reflect a core part of my personality and world view, then these judges hit the nail on the head.

Last night was a fun event filled with good people who walk the walk when it comes to building sustainable communities.

Certainly it was nice to get the kudos. I look forward to earning them many times over as your City Councilmember.

Jessie

P.S. Find friends to sign up for our updates--Stay tuned for another great recipe coming at you next week AND a new generation of pragmatic, proactive leadership for our City when I am elected! Cheers!

Jessie's Award Winning Summer Salad: "Candidate most likely to think out-of-the-box and bring unlikely ingredients together"

1. Lots of chopping going on here. Get friends to help!
2. Start by putting all the "goodies" in a bowl. Make sure to keep all the juice!
3. Add the faro until you have the right balance (more goodies, less faro)
4. Add the dressing

The Base:

· Farro (soaked for 2 hours and then boiled in salted water until tender)

The best local farro comes from Bluebird Grain Farm in the Methow valley - you can buy at the Ballard Farmers Market or through Full Circle Farm!

The Goodies:

· English peas (shucked and blanched)
· Fava beans (shucked and blanched)
· Radishes (sliced into thin matchsticks)
· Heirloom cherry tomatoes (cut in 8ths so they get real juicy)
· Shallots (thin matchsticks)
· Rainier cherries (small cubes)
· Nectarines (small cubes)
· Young kale stems (small cubes)
· Basil (chopped)
· Mint (chopped)
· Flatleaf parsley (chopped)

The Dressing:

· Lemons
· Olive oil
· Sherry vinegar
· Salt

*Special thanks to my chopping crew: William, Nathan and Amy! And kudos back to the Seattle Great City Initiative for pulling such an "out of the box" candidate forum/competition together! Whoop!

**Note: photo of me and my farro was swiped from Publicola.net. They report on City issues more than anyone around and are worth a peek.

Alki Foundation Endorses! Couldn't wait to tell you!

2009-06-14T07:24:00.000-07:00

Friends,
This has been an exciting and busy week for my campaign, but it seems that all of our hard work is paying off. We received word from the Alki Foundation that they have endorsed me for position 6 on the Seattle City Council! Through a rigorous evaluation process, The Alki Foundation remains dedicated to rallying support behind the candidates that share their common goal of encouraging a healthy and vibrant economy.

We are faced with the loss of tens of thousands of jobs and there is an urgent need for leaders who are committed to making job and economic growth a priority. Governments and business alike are suffering from disappearing revenues, less buying power as price of health care and energy keep going up.

Government services and non-profit sector absolutely rely on a strong economy. We won't be able to recover until the foundation of job growth and economic growth are stabilized. The current economic downturn is unlike anything we have experienced in a generation and we have much work to do. To be quite frank, it is not work government can accomplish alone.
Here's what Port Commissioner Bill Bryant has to say, "Jessie has the passion and commitment to forge the pro-jobs/pro-environment consensus Seattle needs"

We must seize opportunities in emerging global fields: global health, biotech/clean tech, renewable energy and energy efficiency. Green jobs will be developing around the country and my job is to make sure those jobs are anchored in Seattle, employing people in Seattle.

In all of this work, I'm thrilled to have the support of Alki -- and your support as well.

Onward - for a vibrant, green and prosperous Seattle!

Jessie

Sole endorsement of Washington Conservation Voters!

2009-06-09T14:53:00.000-07:00

Friends,

The endorsements to my campaign just keep on coming! I have earned the sole endorsement of Washington Conservation Voters for position 6.

Many thanks to WCV - see what they had to say about why they are supporting my campaign and help me spread the word!

"Jessie has a clear vision for environmental issues in Seattle," said Washington Conservation Voters executive director Kurt Fritts. "We're proud to support a candidate who has a strong history with the environmental movement and will be a champion for these issues on the city council."

I am THE green candidate in this race, and that is the reason behind the flow of endorsements coming in from the area's top environmental leaders including: Frank Paganelli, Patti Southard, Peter Goldman, Mike Vaska, Bruce Agnew, Joanna Grist, Dan Stonington, Maureen Judge, Ross MacFarlane, Megan Blanck-Weiss and many others!

I'm sure you know other people who care about environmental issues. Pitch in to help me win this campaign by forwarding the message below on to your friends who might like to stand by our side for an environmentally sustainable Seattle

For a vibrant, green and prosperous Seattle!

Jessie

________________

Dear Friend,

I am supporting Jessie Israel for Position 6 on the Seattle City Council because she stands strong on the issues that are of the utmost importance to me, and to the City of Seattle.

She remains dedicated to achieving a sustainable and environmentally sound city, and her plan for decisive action to ensure Seattle's future has already earned the sole endorsement of Washington Conservation of Voters and many of Seattle's distinguished environmental leaders including Frank Paganelli, Patti Southard, Peter Goldman, Mike Vaska, Bruce Agnew, Joanna Grist, Dan Stonington, Maureen Judge, Ross MacFarlane, and Megan Blanck-Weiss!

Washington Conservation Voters, environmental leaders and Jessie agree that we must:

- Champion strong, vibrant & walkable urban neighborhoods;
- Aggressively push for bike and pedestrian infrastructure and open space;
- Ensure we bring smart grid technology to Seattle - bringing utility bills down & using less;
- Incubate a local renewable energy economy - providing family-wage jobs while protecting the environment;
- Leverage existing Federal energy efficiency dollars into a revolving loan fund for property owners, so that we see their impact again and again;
-And ensure we don't spend the next 30 years talking about transit rather than building it. We have no time to waste!

You can help guarantee that Jessie's ideas are heard by clicking here to learn more about her campaign for Seattle City Council, and by making sure to join her e-mail list so that you can stay up to date with TEAM JESSIE!

We need more people like Jessie to lead the way on the issues that mean the most to the City of Seattle, and we need folks like us to jump onboard support her!

Thanks!

TEAM JESSIE races for the Cure!

2009-06-06T12:37:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends,

My name is Claire and I'm helping Jessie to win a seat on the Seattle City Council!

If you walked with TEAM JESSIE at NARAL's Run for Your Rights, you know how much fun we have marching side by side with Jessie for a good cause!

Don't miss your chance to join the fun with TEAM JESSIE - this time for The Susan G. Komen Race for The Cure on Sunday June 7th. For $30 you join can support both Jessie's campaign and the important work of the Komen Foundation, all the while having a beautiful morning walk across the Viaduct.

Jessie Israel for Seattle City Council t-shirts will be provided where the run/walk begins at the Qwest Field and Event Center (Look for the Jessie Israel sign). Registration opens at 6:45 AM and the step-off is at 8:30 AM for co-ed friend and family walkers.

You can register online by clicking here.

Remember to:

1) "Join a team": to find our team enter "Jessie for Seattle" and select the division friends and family

2) Register for the 8:30 co-ed family walk

We look forward to seeing you there! I look forward to meeting you too!

Claire Bogart

Godden, White and Carlyle support Jessie too!

2009-05-29T06:37:00.000-07:00

Friends

I'm excited to report that the endorsements are pouring in to my campaign to change City Council and the City of Seattle for the better. Just this week, I received endorsement from City Councilmember Jean Godden, Rep. Scott White, Rep. Reuven Carlyle and the many others listed below. I am extremely proud of the diversity the over 200 endorsers on this list represent. They include leaders from the environment, business, women’s communities among many others.

Today, I ask you to help me continue the momentum that these endorsers have brought to the campaign. They agree, like you, that now is the time for fresh, innovative and decisive leadership on the Seattle City Council.

As Seattle changes and grows—facing economic challenges, growth pressures, and a critical need for smart, efficient investment in transportation and other infrastructure, now is the time to focus on how to get to yes - not just say no. My reputation and accomplishments show that economic and environmental goals go hand in hand – not one or the other.

With your help, here's what we can do:

Champion for strong, walkable communities.
Go further, faster in making smart, efficient investments in transportation, the environment, new job training, energy efficiency and innovation, and ideas that make neighborhoods better and economy stronger.
Develop strategic partnerships with the non-profit community that help us strengthen our safety-net for those most in need in these tough financial times.

And if you haven't been on line to endorse and donate, now is the time.

For a vibrant, green and prosperous Seattle! Thank you for your support!

Jessie

A. John Scott, Aaron Adelstein, Aaron Alhadeff, Aaron Calvo, Adam Bartz, Aimee Rush, Albert Israel, Alicia Goodwin, Alison Peters, Allegra Calder, Allen D. Israel, Alline Thurlow, Amanda Eichel, Amber Bronnum, Amy Donnelly, Amy Shatzkin, Amy Solomon, Andrew Minear, Andrew Noble, Ann Kelly, Ariel Kemp, Bart Hawkinson, Becky Hughes, Beth Israel, Bob Thompson, Hon.Bobbe Bridge, Bobbie Egan, Bobby Hougham, Bonnie Beukema, Brent Ruth, Brice Maryman, Bridget Sevigny, Bridgette Maryman, Bryndel Swift, Bryson Nitta, Carl Grodnik, Carol Hiltner, Carolyn Duncan, Carolyn Geise, Cathy Allen, Cathy Wallach, Charles Broches, Chris Mitchell, Christina Arcidy, Christina OClaire, Christine Grant, Christine Lencioni, Christopher Curtin, Christy Cormier, Connie Watts, Cory Sbarbaro, Cynara Lilly, Cynthia Hartwig, Damien Brockmann, Dan Filonowich, Daniel O. Stonington, Daniel Winterbottom, Dave White, David Brotherton, David Leech, David Quinn, David Rynn, Deborah Brockway, Devin Liddell, Dick Burkhart, Don Morgan, Ed Paulter, Eileen Boswell, Eli Reich, Elisabeth B. Bascom, Elizabeth Gilchrist, Elizabeth M. Bryant, Elizabeth Siegel, Ellen Cole, Erik Benson, Erik Magnuson, Esperanza Grundy, Evan Buehler, Frank Paganelli, Gabriel Grant, Gail Phillips, Gail Potter, Gayatri Eassey, George and Lois Meng, George Meng, Geraldine Cole, Gina Ray, Gregory M. Engel Jr., Heath Fox, Heather Thorne, Heidi Cunningham, Ivan Nikolayev, James Cronan, Janice Haaken, Jason A. Chance, Hon. Jean Godden, Jeff Rakow, Jeff Reifman, Jeff Schmidt, Jennifer Vranek, Jenny Hannibal, Jeremy Valenta, Jerilyn Brusseau, Jessica A. Emerson, Jessica Farmer, Jessica McCarthy, Jessica Tweedy, Jill Hansen, Jim Kainber, Joanna Grist, Jodie Ryan, Joel A. VanEtta, Hon. John Creighton, John Mauro, Jordan Lazovik, Joy Carpine, Joy Carpine-Cazzanti, Julie and Lance Corbin, Julie Mccoy, Justin Shank, Karan Soi,
Karen Daubert, Karen Uffelman, Kathleen Hurley, Katy Horan, Kathleen Paganelli, Kathryn D. Bedient, Kelley Bevand, Kelley Bevans, Kelly Ross, Ken Alhadeff, Kevin A. McCall, Kirit Bhansali, Kristen Anthony, Kristen Lohse, Kristina M. Moris, Kym Allen, Lara Herrmann, Laura Benbow, Laura Glass, Laura Haleva, Lauren Guzauskas, Larry Israel, Linda Israel, Leah Schulz, Lillian Welch, Lina Miller, Linda Mitchell, Lindsey P. Poole, Lindy Irving, Lisa Chick, Liz Dunn, Rep. Liz Loomis, Lois Maag, Lorrie McKay, Lynn Chang, Marc Furst, Marilyn Berg, Mark Isaacson, Mark L. Ufkes, Matt Mostad, Maura Brueger, Maureen Judge, Maury Eskenazi, Max Engel, Max Israel, Megan Blanck-Weiss, Megan Lemieux Bell, Megann Devine, Melanie Corey-Ferrini, Meredith Tall, Micah Schaffer, Michael Graubard, Michael Jacobson, Michael Keim, Michael Paulsmeyer, Mitchell Nudelman, Natalie Reber, Nate Fox, Nettie C. Israel, Nicole Goldsmith, Nicole Hawkinson, Pamela C. Emerson, Pat Cleary, Patrick Curtin, Paul Somerstein, Peggy Zehring, Penny Lewis, Peter Gonzales, Piper M. Thornburgh, Rachel Quinn, Rachel Turner, Rachel Wise, Rebekah Winters, Richard Cole, Richard M. Snyder, Rita Requa, Roberta Riley, Rosanne Eskenazi, Rep Reuven Carlyle, Saffa Bardaro, Sarah Bryar, Scott Stevens, Rep.Scott White, Sean Sullivan, Sherry Williams, Stacey Breskin-Auer, Stanley Tsao, Stephanie Scroggs, Steve Sutey, Tara Nessan, Terry Liddell, Terry Macaluso, Tiffany Potter, Tim Sutton, Timothy Curry, Tom Donlea, Tom Teigen, Tom Van Bronkhorst, Toran Hansen, Travis Warren, Trish Millines Dziko, Val Motley, Vickery Prongay McCall, Vicki E. Orrico, Yaniv Gelnik and more...

Join the team! Join the fun!

2009-05-14T06:58:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends,

I want to thank everyone who joined me on Saturday
for NARAL’s 6th Annual Run for Your Rights. We had a great time, supported an important cause, and gained some great visibility for our campaign.

If you missed us on Saturday or just had so much fun you want to do it again, you’re in luck!

Throughout the year I will be participating in a number of other runs, walks and parades for my favorite causes and I’m inviting you to join TEAM JESSIE at one (or all!!) of these events. Come get some exercise, have fun with friends, support a good progressive cause and volunteer for my campaign all at the same time! Let’s have a good time while showing Seattle what my campaign stands for -- walk side by side with me and other supporters wearing a TEAM JESSIE shirt.

• Sun, May 17th, 3pm Norwegian Day Parade in Ballard
• Sat, May 30th, 10am Nature Consortium Volunteer Project, West Duwamish Green Belt
• Sun, June 7th, 8am Susan G. Komen Puget Sound Race for the Cure (5k walk/run)
• Sun, June 28th – 10am Seattle Out and Proud Parade
• Date and time coming soon! 23rd Annual Seattle AIDS Walk
• Every day can be a TEAM JESSIE day. Get on our volunteer list by clicking
here!

RSVP for TEAM JESSIE events to Kathleen Paganelli (206) 443-1990. You will receive a reminder email for each event.

Visit our Events Page for more information about each event.

See you out there!

Jessie

2009-05-02T15:02:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends,

As you know, I have a long history of working and volunteering for organizations that support women:

Managing the Center for Women & Democracy
Electing pro-choice public officials and holding them to task with NWPC and WWU
Training candidates in Morocco (resulting in historic jump from 1% to 10% female representation in Parliament)
Building a UNICEF trade school for girls in Africa, and working with hundreds of school girls on tactics for staying in school & staying healthy
In Beijing at the UN 4th World Conference on Women

In short, I am passionate about equity.

As a Seattle City Council member I will continue to make women's voices heard. Today, I am asking you, to help my campaign spread that important message. Please support reproductive rights and my campaign by marching with me in NARAL's 6th Annual Run for Your Rights 5K Run/Walk on May 9th.

For just $17 you join my team (Jessie for Seattle) to support NARAL, all the while having a fun day at Green Lake with friends, family and neighbors! Dogs and stroller are welcome. We will walk together in Jessie Israel for Seattle City Council t-shirts which will be provided where the run/walk begins at the Green Lake Park, Bathhouse Theatre. Look for the Jessie Israel sign. Registration opens at 11:00 AM and the step-of is at noon.

You can click here to register online. Please also RSVP to our team organizer Kathleen Paganelli (206) 443-1990 with your t-shirt size.

I look forward to seeing you there!

Jessie

Where's the leadership?

2009-04-21T12:05:00.000-07:00

Friends,

Last night was the very first of the Seattle City Council candidate debates. It took place in the View Ridge neighborhood – and there was no shortage of candidates. I still remain one of only two female candidates in a very crowded field. The absence of women in the field was expected. What was not expected, however, was the absence of vision and big ideas shown by many of those running.

When one woman in the audience asked what creative ideas we had to bring innovation and leadership to the City Council, the two other candidates in my race (Position 6) punted. I did not.

I spoke about bringing smart grid technology to Seattle – green renewable energy where we need it, where we use it – while bringing our utility bills down
Leveraging dollars from the Federal stimulus package into a revolving loan fund, so that we don’t just spend them once, but can spend them again and again
Strategic partnerships we should be making so that we’re proactive. Proactive about solving our toughest issues by partnering with schools, other jurisdictions, the business community, the non-profit community
Continuing to invest in prevention that will save us in the long run: community policing, diversion programs, public health, and renewing public spaces – not shutting them down.

Now is the time for us to be proactive about solving our City’s problems. Now is the time to talk about leadership that brings long-term solutions for our entire community.

I will do this for you every single day as a member of your Seattle City Council. But I need your help to get there and I need it today.

The candidate filing deadline is coming up in less than 50 days and I need to raise $50,000 by that date. In fact, an important fundraising milestone comes up at the end of this month. Can you donate $100 today? Your contribution will send a strong message that it is time for a new path forward and time for new leadership.

Just click here to make a contribution via my campaign website.

And while you're there, I hope you'll also click YES to endorse my campaign, YES to host a fundraiser, and YES to volunteer. I need you on the team!

Thank you so much for your help and support.

Jessie

Jessie Israel Announces Race for Seattle City Council Position Six

2009-02-10T07:34:00.000-08:00

SEATTLE – The woman who made public-private partnerships for parks a reality in King County today announced she would run for one of the three anticipated open seats for Seattle City Council. Jessie Israel, 35, filed the paperwork to run for the post Nick Licata has held for the past 12 years on the Seattle City Council (Position 6).

Acknowledging that Licata has “worked with integrity over the past 12 years,” Israel stated, “it is time to invest a fresh perspective and new energy into the Council.”

Israel added, “The City Council needs new perspectives, from the use of technology in making government more accessible to people, to more practically addressing common, everyday problems. And, as good as our Council may be, it makes sense to bring new approaches to City Hall after someone has had 12 years to make their imprint on city problems,” Jessie said.

Jessie Israel is a third generation Seattleite who was raised in the city, and graduated from Seattle University. She is a manager for King County Parks, where she leads the Division’s nationally recognized private-public partnership program. The Parks division is credited with generating 25% of the Parks operating budget from business revenues -- helping to keep the King County Parks system open to the public. Jessie serves on several non-profit boards of directors, including City Year and the Ballard Food Bank.

Discussing her decision to run for City Council, and the need for a fresh perspective, Jessie pointed out that “although 56 percent of Seattle voters are women, only two of the 20 likely or announced candidates for City Council this year are women. I have strong roots in the women’s movement, and promise to not just be a woman’s face in office, but to work toward improving the lives of other women and families.”

And she noted, “Seattle has one of the fastest growing populations under 40 of any major city in America. Despite that fact, few of us are at the table to present our view about what this city needs to do to make raising a family in the city affordable.” “I am ready, willing and able to represent that next generation as we step up to the plate to do our part.”

Bob Burns, a supporter and colleague of hers says, “Jessie demands as much from herself as she does of those around her. She has a knack for architecting solutions where opposing interests can come together for a common vision. She listens earnestly and finds the 'wins'. She doesn’t back off of challenges, but aggressively pushes forward with this giant smile in a way where, at the end of the day, everyone is glad to be on her team because together you can get big things done.”

Although Jessie is known as an enthusiastic environmentalist, she is putting Seattle’s economic vitality first: it will be the cornerstone of Jessie’s campaign. “You don’t have to look any further than Microsoft’s decision to lay-off 5,000 workers to recognize that Seattle’s leadership must focus on economic opportunity,” said Jessie. “To date, I am the only candidate for City Council with actual experience transforming a government agency during times of economic crisis. I know how difficult it is to maintain critical public services when cash is short. I look forward to rolling up my sleeves to attack this problem.”

For more information about Jessie Israel, please go to http://www.jessieisrael.com/.

Jessie for the City!

2009-01-25T21:31:00.000-08:00

Friends,
I’m taking an important step and am very honored to have you by my side. Though these are challenging times, I see many opportunities to make our city government more flexible, more dynamic and more responsible. And as our new President pushes us to redefine how we do things, I stand with you poised to roll up my sleeves and be a part of the solution.

I’m running for Seattle City Council. I’m asking for your support – and I’m asking for your endorsement.

I will bring a fresh way of doing things to Council – sharing your energy, innovation and sense of urgency to tackle challenges head-on. That means delivering on the basics of a strong economy and quality of life. This starts with making smart, environmentally sound investments in neighborhood safety, transportation and vibrant, walkable communities.

Unbelievably, I am just one of only two women in a field of nearly 20 potential candidates seeking three open seats. Further, Seattle has one of the fastest growing populations under 40 of any major city in America and under-40’s are the economic lynchpin of so many key industries. Despite that fact, few of us are at the table to present our view about what this city needs to do to make raising a family in the city affordable.

We are running a citywide campaign, fueled by hard work, hustle and a strong team! Here’s what you can do to help:

1) Please make a donation. I need to raise $300,000 to be competitive in this race. Anything you can give will help. Early money is critical to fund campaign essentials and build momentum. Let me know if you can host a fundraiser at your home or business.

2) Endorse me. Every single declaration of support counts! Visit http://www.jessieisrael.com/, click "endorse now" and sign up to support a new generation of pragmatic, proactive leadership for Seattle City Council.

3) Forward this mail to five smart people who care about the future of our city. Tell them about all that we have accomplished together over the years, and how you have helped me build a track record of hands-on experience:

Demonstrating leadership within government to work closely with the business and non-profit communities to improve and protect services;
Preserving our environment through enhancement of biking trails, backcountry trails and open space;
Prioritizing women and families – working to elect good people and filling a pipeline with the next generation of leaders;
Supporting critical social services like the Ballard Food Bank and CityYear – crucial community resources during these economic times.

Over the years, you have witnessed my dedication to this community. I am running for City Council because I love this city and I feel a strong responsibility for its future.

Check back at http://www.jessieisrael.com/ for future information about our campaign and events.Thank you in advance for your support and donation!

Jessie

P.S. Want to make sure we have your most up-to-date contact information? Just click here, fill out your updated contact info and push “submit”. Piece of cake!