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Seattle Officer Dismissed After Fatal Incident Involving Graduate Student

Seattle Police

Seattle’s interim police chief, Sue Rahr, has terminated officer Kevin Dave following a city investigation into the tragic death of Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old graduate student from India. The incident occurred in January 2023 when Dave, responding to an emergency call, struck Kandula with his patrol car while she crossed the street in a marked crosswalk.

The Seattle Office of Police Accountability concluded that Dave had breached multiple department policies, notably the requirement for the safe operation of police vehicles. Investigations revealed that Dave was traveling at 74 mph in a 25 mph zone without a continuous siren at the time of the accident.

The case gained international notoriety following the release of bodycam footage from another officer at the scene, Daniel Auderer, who made insensitive remarks about Kandula’s death. Auderer suggested the department could simply settle the matter financially, noting Kandula’s life “had limited value.” This statement, along with his laughter caught on the recording, fueled public and community outrage.

Despite the King County Prosecutor’s Office deciding against felony charges for Dave in February 2023, citing insufficient evidence of intentional disregard for safety, the incident led to severe repercussions. Dave was fined $5,000 for negligent driving, and the global outcry prompted further scrutiny and calls for accountability.

The Kandula family has filed a lawsuit seeking over $110 million, citing the severe emotional distress and pain Kandula suffered prior to her death. The family’s legal action, along with ongoing public criticism, continues to put pressure on the Seattle Police Department and local governance to address concerns over police conduct and the safety of community members.

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Nathan Young Biography

Homeless

Nathan Young has always had a heart for helping others. After college, Nathan decided to serve in the Army. Upon returning home, he started running a hotel that was once used as a retirement home. Nathan used this endeavor to support his desire to help anyone with whom he came into contact. 

His opportunity to help people began sooner than he had expected. A sober living house was located close by the hotel. Those who were staying at the sober living house would be kicked out for drinking alcohol. Looking for a place to go, they would come to Nathan’s hotel, where he would take them in, requiring little or no payment for their stay. To help these people even further, he opened two sober living houses and provided treatment options for those who wanted it, for which he paid the majority of the cost.  

As time progressed, he decided to help others who were in other unfavorable situations. He hired ex-convicts who had difficulty finding jobs after they left their halfway houses. He also allowed those who were homeless or almost destitute to work for him. 

Unfortunately, Nathan Young met his own share of hard times after losing his girlfriend to an overdose.  

With the start of 2020 and the frightening uncertainty of COVID, most of the surrounding hotels were being forced to shut down. After running the hotel since 1996, he was laid off from his position due to economic hardships related to the pandemic. However, he didn’t let this setback stop him from continuing to help others. 

Still, he felt compelled to help those with substance abuse disorders, especially after his personal loss. While he owned the sober living house, he wanted to expand and open a clinic as well. However, he was under the belief that one person could not own both facilities at one time. So, he asked his friend, Marc, to purchase an outpatient clinic during the summer of 2020.  The clinic started out with only ten clients but grew as Nathan’s reputation for being tenderhearted towards those struggling with addiction came to the clinic. 

Nathan’s kindhearted nature continued to shine through even as he continued to face financial hardships. In 2022, the health insurance company, Aetna, stopped providing payments for supporting the clinic. As Aetna was providing the clinic’s main source of revenue, this was a hard blow. The smartest business decision at that time would have been to shut down the clinic, turning away all clients and terminating all of the employees, as Nathan would face significant financial loss if he continued to run the clinic. 

However, Nathan did not want to turn anyone away if he could help it. Instead, he continued to run the clinic, dedicating everything to assisting others, even though he was hemorrhaging millions of dollars of his own personal funds as the year 2023 progressed. Although he had to reduce the cost of overhead by terminating some employees and reducing salaries, he did all that he could to prevent the clinic from going bankrupt. As a result, he worked 16-hour days every day of the week for the majority of that year.  

Nathan’s growth and success boil down to the fact that his number one priority is helping others by loving and accepting them as they are. This is reflected in the care that his clinic provides as they prepare a personalized treatment plan that meets the client’s current needs, helping them start their recovery journey. The clinic refuses to give up on people, taking in clients even after they experience a relapse, destroy property within the clinic, or get into physical fights with other clients. Rarely will the clinic refuse to allow an individual to enter or reenter the program.

Because of the approach Nathan Young takes in the clinic, there is a high success rate as about 60% of clients remain sober for a minimum of six months. To accept more clients that are not able to afford treatment, overhead costs have been minimized as much as possible. A job mentorship program is also available to clients, giving them career opportunities that they may not otherwise have had due to their personal or criminal history. 

The program also helps them through the interview process despite their rough appearance. Alumni marketing is also a part of the clinic. This means that once a client becomes sober, they are able to market a particular product using their face which is then used in a social media advertisement. As their friends notice the fact that they are sober, they then ask how they achieved their sobriety, directing them back to the clinic. 

Nathan continues to help others who are underprivileged, including the homeless. He assists them in becoming sober, finding jobs, and renting their own apartments, helping them permanently stay off the streets. Nathan Young is a true example of someone with a heart of gold. 

Company Overview:

9 Silver is a premier employment agency based in Los Angeles, California, dedicated to bridging the gap between talented individuals and leading businesses. Located at 1800 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028, and reachable at (323) 643-3171, they specialize in providing top-tier outsourced employment and human resource services.

About Us: 9 Silver’s mission is clear: to connect motivated, talented, and driven individuals with exceptional businesses, fostering opportunities for growth and excellence. They are committed to offering high-quality outsourced employment solutions and HR services, aimed at empowering both business owners and employees to achieve their fullest potential.

Nathan Young, the visionary founder and owner of 9 Silver, brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the employment industry. His dedication to excellence and innovation in human resources has propelled 9 Silver to the forefront of employment solutions in Los Angeles.

Clinic Services They facilitate connections between job seekers and employers, ranging from temporary positions to permanent placements, ensuring that each match promotes mutual success. Whether you’re a professional seeking a better opportunity or a company needing skilled talent, 9 Silver is here to support and enhance your journey. [Website]

Plants To Feed The Birds By Bruce Bennett (WSU Certified Master Gardener)

Berry Plant

This month’s column was started during the first week of December while I was digesting the (hopefully) last turkey and cranberry sandwich of the season.  Looking out the living room window into the fog drenched back yard, I watch the robins making their own lunch on the very small yellow fruit of a ‘Golden Raindrops’ Crab Apple tree (Malus transitoria ‘Schmidtcutleaf’).  One of the reasons for the purchase of the tree was because of this very reason – the feeding of winter’s wildlife and the increased visual interest for me.  Spring brings fragrant white blooms to this tree.  Summer provides yellow-green deep-cut leaves and then transitions to yellow and orange in autumn.  After the leaves fall, early autumn provides a golden haze of tiny crab apples and, through January, the aerial antics of robins and other birds eating the fruit.  I suppose the heated birdbath also helps to attract them when other water sources are covered with a layer of ice. 

I mention this crab apple as an example of getting the biggest bang as possible for your garden design buck; greater visual interest as well as a way to keep birds in the yard throughout the year.  The deal is that you feed them now and they feed on the insects in your yard for the rest of the year.  Some, like hummingbirds, will stay year-round while other ‘snowbirds’ will remember this back yard next winter.   This is also a garden design decision.  What plants will be placed beneath the spreading branches?  What other plants in the yard will echo the gold tones of the leaves and apples of ‘Golden Raindrops’?  Ornamentals and/or natives?  A ground cover or grass or gravel?   It is possible to exercise one’s artistic skills and still help to protect and diversify nature with the same thoughtful actions (And, in answer to one reader’s question, all plants mentioned in these columns are hardy to our hardiness zones).  If you want to help the birds in your yard during those harsh winter months, there are a number of native and non-native shrubs and trees that will help provide food and shelter for them, with the addition of extended visual interest for you during our dreary winter months.

For taller native plants, consider the Eastern and Western Serviceberries (Amelanchier canadensis and utahensis).  Depending on the cultivar, they will grow to 6’ – 15’ and will hold any uneaten berries through the winter.  The Western Staghorn Sumac (Rhus glabra) (shown above) has a good-looking autumn color and will attract many varieties of over wintering birds.  Your cold-weather buggies will quickly recognize the natives and take a bit longer to learn about the other ornamental berries in the yard. 

Winterberry Hollies (Ilex verticillata) are natives whose cultivars can have fruit that range in color from yellow to orange to red.   They are deciduous and scene stealers in autumn and winter, especially when backed by taller, contrasting plants. They are adaptable to both wet and dry soils.  Remember you will need both male and female (dioecious) plants for fruit production. This will be true for many berry-bearing plants.  It is why I continue to mention the idea of gardeners doing their research before making plant purchases.  

For non-native food sources, consider fruitful, deciduous Japanese Barberries.  The are many varieties which offer leaf colors from chartreuse to orange, red and burgundy and sizes from 1’ – 10’ tall.   Excellent for full sun, this shrub has few invasive tendencies in western Washington.

The Beauty Berry ‘Profusion’ (Callicarpa bodinieri) has the WOW factor you want in the way of a winter berry-bearing shrub that will feed wildlife and have your neighbors taking a second look at your yard.  Another excellent family of plants are the viburnums.  Both deciduous and evergreen, for sun or shade, these shrubs are workhorses in the landscape with dark blue fruit that will feed your birds.

And, although related to neither berries nor seeds, think about adding a heated feeder for the Anna’s Hummingbirds that stay with us year-round and are joined by Rufous and Calliope hummingbirds for summer before again migrating to Mexico in September and October.

Look at providing your wildlife with a smorgasbord of meals and increased landscape interest by adding some seed-producing perennials to your landscape.  Obvious candidates include ornamental grasses, Coneflowers (shown at left), Coreopsis, Tall Phlox, Asters, Black-eyed Susans, Globe Thistles and Sedums.  There are a number of annual plants that will also nourish your garden wildlife.  I don’t use many annuals in the yard, but, the ones that do come to mind include Marigolds, Cosmos and Sun Flowers. Feed your birds this winter and they will feed your sense of winter whimsey and eco-accomplishment.           

A Couple of Random Thoughts………..

Did you realize that, even in winter, you can still get answers to your indoor and outdoor plant and disease questions from the Master Gardeners of King County?  They are available to assist you year-round with your horticultural conundrums.   Send your questions (and photos) to them at:  extension.wsu.edu/king/ask-a-master-gardener/ and keep our local gardening volunteers mentally stimulated, rather than hibernating. 

And, let’s not forget to reserve a day (or three) between February 19 & 23 for the NW Flower and Garden Festival.  This is the second (after Philadelphia) largest horticultural extravaganza in the country.  The acres of display gardens and vignettes are spectacular and the 400 plant and other vendors, with their well-grown new plants, garden art, etc., should not be missed.  Probably the best feature is the excellent selection of 130+ seminars on a wide variety of topics.  All this and other daily events for just the cost of a ticket.  For more details, visit the event’s website at www.gardenshow.com.  I expect to be at the Washington Master Gardeners Booth (#2158) during parts of the Festival.  Feel free to come by, say Hi! and, whether I am there or not, ask your horticultural questions to the experienced veterans of the program.  Until next month, Happy New Year and Happy Gardening!  

Additional Reading

Erickson, Laura. 100 Plants to Feed the Birds: Turn Your Home Garden into a Healthy Bird Habitat. 2022.  North Adams, MA:  Storey Publishing.  

Shewey, J, & Blount, T. Birds of the Pacific Northwest.  2017.  Portland, OR: Timber Press. 

Tekiela, Stan. Birds of Washington Field Guide. 2022. Cambridge, MN:  Adventure Publications.

Waldon, Robert. Feeding Winter Birds in the Pacific Northwest. 1994.  Seattle, WA: Mountaineers Books. 

Contributing columnist, Bruce Bennett, is a WSU Certified Master Gardener, Certified Professional Horticulturalist, garden designer and lecturer.  If you have questions concerning this article, have a gardening question or two to ask concerning your own landscape or want to suggest a topic for a future column, contact him at gardenguy4u@gmail.com. 

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May In The Seattle Garden By Bruce Bennett

Seattle Gardening In May

This month, I have taken to sitting on the back deck with my morning coffee in-hand and enjoying the fresh emerging beauty of springtime across the landscape.  The new ruby-tinted foliage of the Andromeda/Lily-of-the-Valley Shrub ‘Variegata’ (Pieris japonica) echoes the red flowers of the ten-foot-tall Rhododendron ‘Vulcan’ and the newly opened buds of Azalea ‘Hino Crimson’. 

These plants are color counterpointed by the whites of the shrub New Zealand Pittosporum/ Kohuhu ‘Variegata’ (Pittosporum tenuifolium – pictured right), COSTCO-size pots of cascading green and white Wintercreeper ‘Emerald Gaiety’ (Euonymus fortunei) and the upright exclamation points of Sweet Iris ‘Variegata’ (Iris palida). 

Later in the season, the flowers of Crabapple ‘Golden Raindrops’ (Malus transitoria) and Mountain Laurel ‘Olympic Fire’ (Kalmia latifolia – pictured left) will repeat this red  and white color combination.  The views and scents carried on the warming air make the work of gardening worth all the effort.  The background of deep burgundy leaves from the Purple Smoke Bush ‘Purple Robe” (Cotinus coggygria), added to the blooming bulbs and emerging hostas, make all the colors in the yard POP.  All this botanical wonder tells me we are in ‘the lovely month of May.’ 

We have passed the final major hurdle of winter – the Last Frost Date.  Depending on your local micro-zone, this date is somewhat flexible.  Even my own North Seattle dates will vary from one year to the next.  These days, I’d say that April 15 – 20 is appropriate for most USDA Zone 8/9 plants.  However, do remember that frost dates are based on historical climate data and are not set in stone.  Over-all climate change will have these dates moving earlier in the year. The probability of frost occurring after the spring frost date or before the first autumn frost date is 30%, which means there’s still a chance of inflicting itself upon our yards before or after the stated dates!  Always keep an eye on your local weather forecast and plan to protect tender new plants accordingly.  Regardless of when the big box stores and garden centers begin selling herbs and vegetable starts, for me, the planting of warm weather taste-treats, such as basil, cilantro and the all-important tomatoes, does not happen until after May 1.  As many of you already know, I’m a thrifty (AKA cheap) Connecticut Yankee and don’t intend to spend the money on these cold-tender plants more than once a year!

I usually say that I have a large ornamental and perennial garden. The fact is the entire area around the house is garden, with the only lawn to be seen in my surrounding neighbors’ yards (Hmmm, we may need to take a look at the topic lawn alternatives in the future – what do you think?).  In order to stay on top of gardening tasks, my wife and I keep a loose schedule of jobs to be completed. By the end of March, the planting beds have been spring-cleaned and last year’s perennials cut back, as well as the shrubs that that flower on new wood. There is a bit of bed edging to do and fertilizers or compost to spread.  In April, we transplanted and divided everything that needed it and, of course, started to add new plants to the ever-changing landscape.  Let’s face it, gardens are never done!  They continue to be works-in-progress and teach us that Life is all about change.

Now, it’s May and I can totally enjoy the beauty of last year’s work and this spring’s recent efforts.  The biggest job on the May ‘To-Do List’ is mulching. I think there will be some two yards of medium-ground bark mulch in my near future.  Remember, that one important reason to mulch is to keep the soil cool in the summer and retain moisture. If you are looking forward to planting annuals, let the soil warm up a bit more.  If you plant your annuals too early in cold soil, they will just sit there doing nothing until a bunny (Easter or otherwise) comes along to eat the tender growth. It’s best to wait until May 15 to plant annuals in the ground. While you are waiting, though, if you haven’t already done it, plant your pots. Soil in pots gains heat much quicker than ground soil, so, plant them. I usually do mine by the end of April. Should we get a frost warning, move them into the garage overnight or stick a garden stake in the center of them and throw a tarp, sheet or piece of plastic over their heads to make a temporary cloche.

As the bulbs finish flowering here and there in the yard, they should be deadheaded.  Cut just the spent flowers or entire flower stem off, but never the leaves. Cutting the leaves off prematurely will prevent the bulb from completing its photosynthesis process which allows the plant to convert the sun’s energy to necessary nutrients. In other words, the bulb will weaken and eventually disappear if you continue to cut off its green leaves. Wait until the leaves turn brown. You can fold the leaves with a rubber band to make browning leaves less noticeable.  Planting your bulbs among later emerging perennials (I like hardy geraniums for this job) and groundcovers will also help to camouflage the withering leaves.

During April and May, you have been enjoying the blooms of all early flowering shrubs. May is the time to prune those shrubs if you want to reduce their size or otherwise change their shape. Also check for damaged, diseased or crossing branches and cut them out.  If you pay attention to your azaleas, lilacs, rhododendrons, etc., you will notice that shortly after blooming they start setting next year’s buds. If you prune these shrubs in July, which many people do, you will get few-to-no flowers next year. Prune them shortly after they finish flowering before they set those new buds.

Now back to the mulch. Choosing the type of mulch to use is also a topic for another article. However, whatever you choose, wait until the soil is warm, then add two to four inches. Spread it carefully around your emerging perennials and shrubs and newly planted annuals. The mulch will not only make your garden look finished, it will also keep the soil cool in the heat of summer, help retain water, prevent weeds and add organic material to your soil. After spreading my mulch over a planting area, I like to use a pre-emergent, such as corn gluten, to prevent/reduce weed seed from germinating without damaging other plants that are already growing.  When your neighbor’s dandelion seeds blow into your garden, the pre-emergent will stop them from developing for up to three months. Just remember not to spread it anywhere you are counting on certain flowers to self-seed.

I think of March, April, and May as the building block months for gardens. When the above-mentioned tasks are completed and the mulch is spread, I see the hard work of the new gardening season is over (and I can rest my back). The remainder of the growing year consists of, basically, general light maintenance, watering, insect/disease vigilance and the all-round sensory enjoyment of what has been created (preferably from the back deck with a cup of coffee, in-hand of course).  Happy gardening all!

Contributing columnist, Bruce Bennett, is a WSU Master Gardener, lecturer and garden designer. If you have questions concerning this article, have a gardening question to ask concerning your own landscape or want to suggest a topic for a future column, contact Bruce at gardenguy4u@gmail.com

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Break the Stigma Seattle: The Importance of Talking About Mental Health During Mental Health Awareness Month

Protecting Your Mental Health Seattle

Encourage those struggling or in crisis to call 988 for help.

By Dr. Carl Janzen, Associate Director of Primary Care, for Optum located in Seattle.

Seattle, known for its coffee culture, great restaurants and vibrant tech scene, is also home to a growing concern: mental health. As Seattleites confront life’s challenges, like all Americans, they face unique obstacles that impact their well-being.

Many are struggling with mental health issues such as increased anxiety and depression. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), during late June of 2020, 40 percent of U.S. adults reported they were struggling with mental health issues or substance use. These abnormally high numbers have disproportionately affected younger adults, racial and ethnic minority groups, essential workers, and unpaid adult caregivers.

Locally, like adults, youth are struggling too.  Although a Washington State Healthy Youth Survey in 2023 shows that the number of youths in King County struggling with mental health issues is on a slight decline, there is still room for improvement.  According to the survey, the number of 10th graders feeling like they have no one to turn to when depressed in King County is still 9.6% compared to 12.3% statewide. 

Furthermore, those with depressive feelings is 23.5% locally compared to 29.9% statewide, and those feeling nervous, anxious and on edge are 60% compared to 61.7% statewide. Data Dashboard – Healthy Youth Survey (askhys.net)

Poor mental health among adolescents can impact many areas of a teen’s life and increase stress on families. Making sure teens feel connected to school and family is very important in helping them grow into healthy adulthood.

May is recognized as Mental Health Month, an opportunity to learn about mental health conditions and treatment options. Although exploring mental health treatment options, which includes psychotherapy (also known as talk therapy), medication, or self-care, can be confusing or difficult, is an important part of mental health care.  Some important messages to remember this Mental Health Month are:

  1. You are not alone. Millions of people in the U.S are affected by mental illness each year. By acknowledging how common mental illness is, we can better understand its impact and reduce the stigma.
  2. Self-care such as practicing yoga or meditation, eating well-balanced meals, staying physically active and getting plenty of sleep, are healthy ways to help cope with stress so you can better take care of yourself and in turn, be in a better position to help take care of others.
  3. Connect with others by talking to people that you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling. Conversation is a powerful coping tool that may help manage stress and help promote resilience.
  4. Consider talk therapy, which may be an appropriate option for you. Telemedicine can be a tremendous help to people particularly for people who are unable to get in-person treatment.
  5. Educate yourself by talking to your doctor or using online resources. The more you know, the more you can dispel misinformation or myths that can increase the stigma around mental illness and hold people back from receiving the treatment they need.
  6. Talk to your child about mental health. Feeling connected to family and school can have a significant impact on their mental health, so communicating openly and honestly with your child provides them with a sense of connectedness.
  7. If someone you know needs help, listening to them in a comfortable and non-judgmental way can be a good place to start. It’s important to genuinely express your concern and avoid blaming, criticizing, minimizing or assuming things about their experience.
  8. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988, or chat 988lifeline.org to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
  9. Optum Disclaimer: If you or someone you know have thoughts about suicide, seek help right away. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the closest emergency room.

Mental Health Month is a good time to have discussions about mental health and do your part to break the stigma.

The Garden Guy Chooses New Plants for 2024

Flowers Photo

As a home gardener, one of the satisfying rituals of spring is finding new garden treasures; those plants that are making their debut in the retail marketplaces. They are generally sports or hybrids of plants that have been on the market for years, with the new ones having a different sense of style and usage to them. Or, they can be new hybrids. Whether larger or smaller in size; darker, lighter or variegated leaves or larger flowers; etc., all have the ability to add something ‘extra’ to the humble part of your landscape that cries out to be noticed. A little dramatic? Perhaps. But, you get the gist of what I’m saying. No part of a landscape needs to be boring. It is worth too much in the way of underutilized garden space, monetary value and in satisfying your aesthetic senses to be just ‘Okay.’ A new vignette may be just the thing to enliven the space and create a smile on your face on your face when gazing at the site.

This year, growers and hybridizers seem to have outdone themselves and have brought a bumper crop of hundreds of new (and, of course, improved) plants to garden center shelves and tables. Although I have not actually viewed all of the new candidates, what I have seen at the Northwest Flower & Garden Show, area plant trials and wholesale growers’ beds, have provided me with several contenders for your attention. My prime considerations for Western Washington new plants-of-note include drought and heat tolerance (after root systems are established), disease resistance, low maintenance and, of course, presence in the garden. This year, my candidates for your horticultural scrutiny include perennials, grasses, shrubs and trees (sorry folks, I don’t do annuals). Seek them out, do your own research and evaluate their worthiness for that needy spot in your own yard…….

Artemisia x ‘Silver Lining” (White Sagebrush/Wormwood)

My top perennial choice doesn’t have much in the way of flowers, but, the foliage is a solid winner. A hybrid of two North American natives (the clumping Alaskan artemisia and the Western US artemisia) uses the best of its parentage to create a spectacular, durable foliage perennial. The broadly dissected silver leaves are showy from spring to fall. The mounded, low-wide habit maintains excellent form all season and resists opening up, like ‘Silver Mound’. Use this new perennial as a filler, color transition divider or backdrop in a landscape of flashy colors and or as spiller in mixed containers. Its yellow flowers are held on tall scapes and I would cut them off. In addition to its durability and excellent summer heat and drought tolerance, this artemisia will not rambunctiously spread through the garden as does its cousin, ‘Valerie Finnis.’ ‘Silver Lining’ forms a non-stoloniferous 15″ tall x 36” wide, winter deciduous ground cover with cutleaf silver foliage. Best results will be in average to dry soils, either sandy or clay. If those resilience attributes weren’t enough, this plant is also both deer and rabbit resistant.

Perennial runners-up include Agapanthus africanus ‘Bridal Veil’ (Lily-of-the-Nile), Brunnera macrophylla ‘Frostbite’ (Siberian Bugloss), Heliopsis helianthoides ‘Bit of Honey’ (Ox-eye Sunflower), Heuchera x ‘Forever Midnight’ (Coral Bells), and Teucrium fruticans ‘Harlequin’s Silver’ (Creeping Germander).

Panicum virgatum ‘Niagara Falls’ (Switch Grass)

This native from the Great Plains is an excellent grass in just about any landscape. With its late season seedheads and arching habit, ‘Niagara Falls’ is a good replacement for Miscanthus senesis. The powder blue leaf blades arch gracefully in the landscape, creating a soft cascading look. In early autumn, seed head plumes rise above the foliage creating a cream-colored cloud that gives the area texture and interest which will last through winter. Because of its foliage interest, this four-foot-tall grass is a multi-purpose plant that can be used in borders, containers, as specimen or in mass plantings. It is versatile and great looking, just what a plant should be!

It is an easy ornamental grass to grow in full sun to part shade and it will do well in just about any soil type in our part of the State. Remember to water it and cut it back in spring before the new growth appears and you have covered all of your maintenance bases. That’s right, save yourself some work and leave the buff-colored stalks to over-winter. In early fall, the seed head plumes that rise above the foliage will create a cream-colored cloud above the plant and will provide visual interest and bird habitat that will last through the winter doldrums.

Grass runners-up in this category include Amsonia hubrichtii ‘String Theory’ (Bluestar), Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Lemon Squeeze’ (Fountain Grass) and Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Brush Strokes’ (Little Bluestem).

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Eclipse’ (Big Leaf Hydrangea) is a shrub that has been receiving rave reviews from garden centers this spring. Probably because the shrub retains its dark foliage, rather than fading back to green, during the summer heat. The combination of the intense dark foliage and stand-out cranberry-red and white blooms makes for an excellent color counterpoint in just about any yard and, hopefully, a great dried-flower arrangement in a vase.

‘Eclipse’ is purported to have great disease resistance and low maintenance requirements. At three to five feet tall and wide, ‘Eclipse’ is size-appropriate for just about all smaller urban gardens. For its first three to five years, this hydrangea is a prime candidate for a porch or balcony container. After that, it will need annual pruning to keep it within bounds. As with most hydrangeas, this plant does best in morning sun and some afternoon shade. However, it can thrive in more sun in Western Washington if additional moisture is provided. ‘Eclipse’ is cold hardy down to Zone 5a and can take both our summer heat and winter cold snaps. If you are purchasing only one new plant this year, definitely consider the multi-faceted ‘Eclipse’ (and let me know how it does for you).

Shrub runners-up include Abelia x grandiflora ‘Angel’s Blush’ (Glossy Abelia), Calycanthus floridus, ‘Simply Sensational’ (Eastern Sweetshrub), Hydrangea paniculata ‘Little Hottie’ (Panicle Hydrangea), Ilex x meserveae ‘Little One’ (Blue Holly), Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Midnight Cascade’ (Hanging) Blueberry and Vitex agnus-castus ‘Queen Bee’ (Chastetree).

Cercis canadensis ‘Garden Gems Amethyst’ (Redbud) is a new dwarf tree which also features dark leaves and is compact enough to grow in a pot. It’s a slow grower that can reach eight to ten feet tall and wide, which is about half the size of a standard redbud. It flowers in early spring, sparkling with pink blooms before the foliage appears. In summer, the leaves will hold their amethyst color through our heat domes.

‘Amethyst’ is one of those plants I’d call a ‘nativar’ (a cultivar of a native plant, a Redbud in this case) that is pollinator-friendly, making it increasingly popular with the bee-lovers of our area. This new hybrid attracts pollinators and creates the perfect conversation piece in a small landscape or on a condo patio in full sun to part shade. If you don’t happen to care for the look of dark foliage, a sister (cousin?) Redbud will be coming out that has leaves which emerge red and then turn green. It’s called ‘Garden Gems Emerald.’

Tree runners-up include Heptacodium miconioides ‘Temple of Bloom’ (Seven-son Flower), Hesperocyparis arizonica ‘Crystal Frost’ (Arizona Cypress) and Thuja standishii × plicata ‘Leprechaun’(Leprechaun Arborvitae).

Readers should remember that this list is totally subjective. It is based on the plants I have seen and liked for their hardiness, versatility and’ WOW’ appeal that the neighbors don’t have. Use this list to kick-off your own horticultural sleuthing of those new additions at your favorite garden center. The downside of new-plant shopping is to remember the qualities of patience and perseverance. As new introductions, these little treasures may not appear in your area for a while. Do ask the garden center staff if the plant in question can be ordered or your name added to a Waitlist. That tact has worked for me many times over. Best of luck with this annual rite of Springtime and the newfound joy in your little patch of heaven. Happy gardening all!

Contributing columnist, Bruce Bennett, is a WSU Master Gardener, lecturer and garden designer. If you have questions concerning this article, have a gardening question to ask concerning your own landscape or want to suggest a topic for a future column, contact Bruce at gardenguy4u@gmail.com

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55 Silver Nathan Young – Pioneering Compassionate Care

Compassion Care by 55 Silver Nathan Young

Nathan Young’s leadership at 55 Silver is a compelling story of compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to helping those in need. His journey, which spans decades and continents, illustrates a life dedicated to service, both in military and civilian realms, and highlights his profound impact on the healthcare industry.

Early Beginnings and Military Service

Nathan’s story begins with his education, interrupted by his decision to serve as a combat soldier in the Israel Army during the Israel-Lebanon conflict. This period of service, following an honorable discharge from the Coast Guard Academy, was marked by rapid adaptation and profound commitment. Nathan Young’s ability to quickly learn Hebrew and integrate into a challenging combat environment underscores his resilience and dedication—a theme that would define his later entrepreneurial ventures.

A Sanctuary in Beverly Hills

Returning to the United States, Nathan managed a 77-room Airbnb/hotel near Beverly Hills from 1996 to 2020. Originally a retirement home in disrepair, Nathan transformed this establishment into a haven for the marginalized. Here, Nathan began his informal mission of aiding those struggling with addiction and homelessness. His hotel became a refuge for individuals expelled from a nearby sober living house, as well as for ex-convicts and the homeless, whom he employed and supported, fostering a community of recovery and second chances.

Expansion into Sober Living

Driven by a desire to make a more structured impact, Nathan founded two sober living houses. These houses were an extension of his commitment to support addiction recovery, providing not just shelter but also covering treatment costs for many, essentially operating as a charity due to irregular payments from treatment centers. This initiative was deeply personal and shaped by the tragic overdose and death of his girlfriend, which only deepened his resolve to fight addiction.

Innovative Approach in Healthcare

The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges, including Nathan losing his role as hotel manager. However, seizing opportunity in adversity, Nathan, with the help of a friend, opened an outpatient clinic in July 2020. Despite starting with only ten clients, the clinic quickly expanded, thanks to Nathan’s philosophy of love and acceptance, which resonated deeply with his clients. This approach was not just theoretical but practical, as demonstrated when Nathan chose to absorb significant personal financial losses to keep the clinic operational during a financial crisis precipitated by Aetna’s payment halt in December 2022. Aetna and Nathan Young have worked together for many years. If you don’t know, Aetna is a prominent American health insurance company, renowned for providing a wide range of health care services. Part of CVS Health Corporation since 2018, Aetna offers medical, dental, pharmaceutical, and behavioral health insurance plans, catering to both individuals and groups.

Despite being advised to shut down the clinic as Aetna payments ceased—a major source of the clinic’s revenue—Nathan personally invested $5.5 million to keep the clinic afloat. His decision to continue operations under such financial strain illustrates his dedication to both his clients and employees, prioritizing their well-being over fiscal considerations.

55 Silver’s Role and Services

Under Nathan’s leadership, 55 Silver has thrived, emphasizing the need for personalized and compassionate care in healthcare staffing. The company offers specialized recruitment services across various areas, including Nursing Placement Services, Behavioral Health Recruitment, and Allied Health Recruitment. Each of these areas is critical in meeting the diverse needs of healthcare facilities, ensuring high-quality patient care through a rigorous vetting process of healthcare professionals.

Community Impact and Client Success

Nathan’s unique approach has not only led to significant business success but has also made a tangible difference in the lives of many. His policy of giving numerous chances to individuals like ZB, a client who left and returned to the program multiple times before finally achieving sobriety and advancing to a managerial role, underscores the effectiveness of Nathan’s philosophy. Such stories are not isolated but are indicative of the broader impact Nathan Young and 55 Silver have had on the community.

Compliance and Ethical Standards

Moreover, Nathan ensures that 55 Silver operates with the highest standards of ethical compliance, adhering strictly to laws and regulations such as EKRA. This commitment to integrity is crucial in maintaining trust and efficacy in the sensitive field of addiction treatment and healthcare staffing.

Conclusion

Nathan Young’s journey with 55 Silver is a testament to the power of compassionate leadership and the impact it can have on the healthcare industry. By placing humanity at the core of business, Nathan has not only created a successful enterprise but has also profoundly affected the lives of those most in need. His story is a beacon for anyone in the healthcare industry, proving that with compassion, resilience, and integrity, it is possible to make a significant and positive difference in the world.

Company: 55 Silver is a healthcare staffing company that specializes in matching healthcare facilities with qualified professionals in nursing, behavioral health, and allied health roles. The company is dedicated to providing personalized staffing solutions that meet the specific needs of each facility, ensuring high-quality patient care. 55 Silver focuses on rigorous candidate vetting and tailoring services to the evolving needs of the healthcare industry, striving to form long-lasting relationships with facilities that prioritize excellent care and efficiency. Led by Nathan Young, 55 Silver is known for its commitment to integrity, dedication, and compassionate service in the healthcare staffing sector.

Ben Kissel Channel: Unleashing Comedy and Chaos in Every Episode

Ben Kissel

The Ben Kissel Channel’s New Episodes are out! The long-awaited return of Ben Kissel, the comedian, actor, writer, producer, and podcast host, has finally arrived! Known for his work as a co-host on popular podcasts, Kissel steps into the spotlight as the sole host of his new show, available on BenKisselChannel.com and YouTube.

In Episode One of the Ben Kissel Channel, Ben and his co-host Cheiknar kick things off with a mix of personal anecdotes and uproarious commentary on current events. They dive into a range of wild topics that set the tone for what fans can expect from this new show.

First, they discuss the demise of serial killer Robert Pickton, offering a dark yet humorous take on the news. From there, they shift to lighter topics with Khloe Kardashian’s weight-loss journey and her drastically new look.

The bizarre journey continues with a story involving a funeral home worker who stole a sex doll: A tale that elicits both laughter and disbelief. The episode wraps up with a jaw-dropping story of a groom in Indonesia who discovered his bride was a man. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions and absurdity, promising listeners an unforgettable experience.

In Episode Two, Ben and Cheiknar maintain their momentum with another blend of personal anecdotes and humorous commentary on the latest news. They start by discussing a new sexually transmitted fungal infection emerging in New York City, adding a comedic twist to a concerning topic.

Then they talk about an Edmonton Oilers fan who achieved internet fame for flashing her assets — a story that’s as unexpected as it is entertaining.

The episode also delves into a spine-chilling urban legend about the Patchwork Man, a tale that might leave listeners sleeping with the lights on. Ben and Cheiknar’s dynamic banter and unique perspectives make each story come alive and keep the audience hooked from start to finish.

Episode Three opens with Ben and Cheiknar sharing more personal stories and humorous insights into some truly outrageous news stories. They begin with a bizarre incident involving a man caught on camera stuffing antique store items up his (you know where) while wearing a kilt. This strange tale sets the stage for a series of equally wild topics.

They then discuss a high school senior paralyzed in a mishap during a game of Assassin, highlighting the unexpected dangers of seemingly harmless pranks. The episode also touches on the cultural shift away from public nudity in Germany, with Ben and Cheiknar humorously lamenting the decline of naked beaches.

Each topic is approached with a mix of humor and insight, making for an engaging and entertaining episode.

Episode Four features Ben, Cheiknar, and guest Jerii Aquino, who bring even more laughs with their unique spin on the latest bizarre news. They delve into the wild world of Power Slap, where contestants slap each other for cash, celebrating a Brazilian butt lift success story that turns a champ into a sensation.

Celebrity body part insurance also takes center stage, with JLo’s $28 million derrière stealing the spotlight. J.Lo is often rumored to have insured her famous buttocks. This rumor has become part of celebrity folklore.

The episode takes an even stranger turn as they discuss a psychologist/mom’s unorthodox stance on shopping cart etiquette and the controversial prison life of Larry Nassar. They also touch on Scott Disick’s dramatic weight loss and his struggles with Hawaiian rolls, adding a humorous twist to his saga.

To top it all off, they address the controversy surrounding a Mississippi state trooper dismissed for sharing a private video. The episode concludes with a special guest appearance by artist Randall Kaplan, who creates a unique piece of artwork live on the show, adding a creative and unexpected element to the mix.

Ben Kissel, renowned for his wit and multifaceted talents, does not disappoint with his newest venture. He builds off his roots in stand-up comedy that started at the University of Wisconsin-Stout before co-hosting the groundbreaking “Last Podcast on the Left” with Henry Zebrowski and Marcus Parks. The podcast garnered millions of listens.

Kissel has carved a niche by blending humor with true crime, a combination that garnered over one billion listens and a dedicated fan base across social media.

Now, on his own platform at BenKisselChannel.com, Kissel continues to captivate audiences with personal stories and uproarious takes on the latest oddities. Expect everything from bizarre criminal antics to eyebrow-raising cultural shifts, all delivered with Kissel’s trademark charm and towering six-foot-seven presence. Stay tuned for many new episodes to come as Kissel marks his long-awaited return to podcasting and show hosting.

Joined by co-hosts like the enigmatic Cheiknar, each episode promises a blend of comedic genius and offbeat insights that have made Kissel a household name in podcasting. With special guests like artist Randall Kaplan adding their own creative spark, the Ben Kissel Channel isn’t just a podcast — it’s a journey through the eccentricities of life you won’t want to miss!

Also available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Start watching the first episode below.

Optimizing Your Health With Dr. Sean O’Mara

Optimizing Your Health With Dr. Sean O'Mara

If you don’t take care of your most important asset, your body, you will not have good health or a good quality of life. Unfortunately, our country has a huge problem with chronic disease, and millions of people are struggling with several health issues.

Instead of simply treating these issues, Dr. Sean O’Mara focuses on the source of chronic disease – visceral fat. After 13 years of researching, working with clients, and assessing MRIs, he has developed over 45 strategies for optimizing your health.

Dr. Sean O’Mara is the world’s leading health and performance-optimizing doctor. Optimizing your health means taking a deep look into your current health status, allowing you to make healthier choices to obtain your best health. Dr. Sean O’Mara defines it this way: “The best for the best.”

Reaching optimal health means being extremely conscious of what goes into your body. When you put junk in your body, you will only feel unhealthy and have poor performance. Eating healthy is essential as well as the proper advice. When you pay attention to what you eat and make healthy choices, you are much more likely to achieve better health and a better quality of life.

Taking charge of your health takes a lot of work and effort. But it can result in the best version of yourself. This is why Dr. O’Mara offers health-optimizing plans. With these plans, you will have the chance to speak with people from all over the world who are also looking to optimize their health and can encourage you to optimize your health.

When you become part of an optimizing health plan, you can speak with the members of your group about why you want to optimize your health and the goals you hope to achieve and provide your history. The opportunity to be a part of these groups offers a unique experience. You will have time to speak personally with Dr. O’Mara and receive helpful strategies on how to optimize your health.

For those interested in achieving optimal health, there are different plans available. 

The first plan is the standard introductory plan. This involves three MRI scans with a consultation to go over the scans. Four 15-minute sessions with Dr. O’Mara are also available to help you stay on the path to health optimization.

You’ll also learn the 46 strategies that help you optimize your health, better your appearance, and improve your body’s performance. Share with other clients in Dr. O’Mara’s online group.

The second plan is specifically for improving cardiovascular health. It is a great option for those who wish to stop heart issues from occurring or slow down the progression of a heart issue.

Included in this plan are four MRI scans and a two-hour session with Dr. O’Mara. Also included are six 15-minute sessions with Dr. O’Mara to ensure that you are sticking to your optimization plan. An optimized physical exam and a membership to the optimized health online community will also be given to you.

Another option is the Alpha High-Performance Plan, where you will focus on your appearance and performance to achieve the best health. Named for the Alpha individual, or someone who wishes to be the best version of themselves, it is a great option for those wanting to become the “best biological version of themselves.”

Along with this plan are five MRI scans and a complete physical examination. Additionally, you will have three hours of consulting from Dr. O’Mara. You will also receive a personal trainer who will guide you through a one-hour workout session.

To make sure that you are staying on track with your optimal health plan, you will have eight 15-minute private sessions with Dr. Sean O’Mara. You will also have a membership for the community online as well as access to the smaller Alpha High Performer online chat group.

The last plan is called the Senior Executive Plan. This plan is great for those who need their bodies to be at peak performance as a part of their livelihood. Also included is an intense workout plan, an MRI scan of your whole body, and a complete body exam. You will also have an eight to twelve hour-long consultation and eight 10-to 15-minute sessions a week with Dr. O’Mara.

One major benefit of this plan is having daily access to Dr. O’Mara for all health-related questions. Other benefits offered with this plan include two 45-minute workout sessions and a paid three-day trip to an MRI diagnostic center with accommodations and healthy meals provided.

By addressing the root cause instead of just treating the symptoms, health optimization can improve your health so you can grow better and not just older. It is a mindset that will help you achieve a longer life and a better quality of life. If you are interested in improving your body’s health, consider working with Dr. Sean O’Mara to achieve optimal health. You can follow him on his LinkedIn or Instagram.

Dr. Sean O’Mara: Helping Everyone Achieve Their Highest Biological Potential

Before Dr. Sean O’Mara became a doctor, researcher, and expert in health optimization, he lived in Virginia, where he served as a police officer, discovering that he enjoyed working in traumatic situations. He went on to graduate from Penn State University with high honors, then later decided to receive his law degree from Villanova University School of Law. For some time after he graduated from law school, he served as a criminal prosecutor in the city of Philadelphia. [LinkedIn]

Determining that he had a passion for helping people, Sean decided to study medicine at Temple University. As he liked working in trauma and emergency situations, he decided to focus on emergency medicine to become an emergency medicine doctor.

He joined the U.S. Army Medical Corps as an emergency physician, later being chosen to treat several presidents, secretaries of state, and other government officials. Dr. O’Mara received the U.S. Army’s Outstanding Physician of the Year Award for his dedication and service.

As an ER physician, a patient approached him, admonishing him that he should consider cutting out carbohydrates and the many health benefits that go along with the paleo diet. At the time, Dr. O’Mara had not heard of that diet and became intrigued by the potential health benefits.

He was then struggling with some health issues of his own, suffering from an enlarged prostate, having difficulty sleeping at night due to restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea, cardiovascular issues, and heartburn that resulted in lesions in the esophagus that had to be screened every three months to make sure that cancer hadn’t developed, and skin conditions such as eczema.

Curious, he decided to do more research on the paleo diet. He then stopped eating processed food and only ate meat and vegetables. After making these changes in his diet, he noticed that all of his health issues went away. However, despite these positive changes, he was angry that the issues were not resolved with medications or other medical procedures but rather were resolved with diet changes. This made him question his medical education, as this was not part of it.

Dr. O’Mara decided to move his family from Washington D.C. to Minneapolis, where he joined a research practice that studied visceral belly fat. This is not part of the material covered in medical school. However, Dr. O’Mara soon discovered that chronic disease is one of the largest issues in the country and that eating meat and vegetables is the best way to treat chronic disease, removing the harmful visceral fat in the body.

Other foods that are good for the body are fermented foods, as they are historically what our ancestors would have eaten. This includes kefir, kombucha, kimchi, blue cheese, other fermented cheese, and fermented beets. Fermented foods contain microbes, which are beneficial for our health.

It is also important for us to look for the healthiest source of meat, just as our ancestors would have done. This means that we need to purchase lean meat that is grass-fed with golden fat around the edges instead of white fat, as that is a sign of being fed grains.

After extensive research with MRI scans, meat that is marbled is the muscle that is inflamed in the animal. Cows that have been fed grain, corn, and even molasses have inflamed muscles as they have been fed a diet of processed foods. Processed foods result in inflammation in the body, as well as causing harmful visceral fat.

Dr. O’Mara strongly believes that getting MRI scans is the best way to discover your health status. It shows you how much visceral fat your body holds. Dr. O’Mara believes that these scans are the most effective way to persuade an individual to make drastic changes to their health, even more so than just seeing numbers on a screen. When a person can see the visceral fat inside of their body, it demonstrates their need for dietary changes.

With all of his research and developing plans for preventing and reversing chronic diseases, Dr. O’Mara was recognized on a national level and received a research grant from the National Science Foundation in 2016 for learning more about reversing chronic health issues.

His optimization techniques are designed to help people prevent and reverse chronic issues. They can help a person look and feel younger because it is treating the underlying cause and not just the symptoms.

Dr. Sean O’Mara is a non-profit doctor who is dedicated to putting all proceeds received back into research for natural ways to optimize health. As he has been in law enforcement and has also served in the military, he is especially dedicated to helping emergency first responders and the military in achieving better health.

He is the world’s first, and possibly only, health optimization physician. He has worked with several high-profile clients in his health optimization plans; however, they are available to everyone. His goal is to help everyone obtain their highest biological potential. 

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