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Local Neighborhood Town Meeting Updates
from Fairwood Board Member Aboudara

May 19
Local Fairwood Greens Board Member Erin Aboudara and several other board members attended the King County Fairwood Town Hall meeting at Fairwood Elementary on April 4. Erin took a few moments to share key messages of interest to the greater Fairwood community.

King County Councilman Reagan Dunn, King County Sheriff John Urquhart, and several other King County government department representatives attended this Town Hall Meeting.

Sheriff's Report
Statistics. Sheriff Urquhart reported that Fairwood, in general, the number of violent crimes here and in nearby unincorporated King County are down, despite the recent double homicide. Unfortunately, property crimes such as burglary and car prowls are up.

He also reported that as of May 1, the number of deputies on patrol south of I-90 totals eight. This is a service reduction reflective of the current Sheriff’s Office budget.

Several homeowners asked questions regarding how to best address 911 calls that will result in a speedy reponse. Sheriff Urquhart noted that people should answer the 911 dispatcher’s questions regarding related to the type of emergency (medical, fire or police). The dispatcher then can decide if the call needs to be sent to the non-emergency dispatcher and if a deputy is needed. A total of six detectives cover property crime investigations from NE King to SE King in unincorporated King County.

One of the biggest crime problems that King County currently has is ongoing gang issues and property tagging.

Sheriff's Visibility to Increase
A homeowner expressed concern about the status of Sheriff’s Office storefront in Fairwood and also about the Maple Valley KCSO Precinct that was closed early last year.

Sheriff Urquhart stated emphatically that more coverage will occur at the storefront soon and that the “surplus property” of the Maple Valley precinct building was not sold to any buyers. They now realize this prescence is still needed. Urquhart hopes to reopen it again within a short time as well.

Reagan Dunn has noted that he had opposed the closure of the precinct all along and lives nearby in unincorporated Maple Valley. Erin remembered e-mailing him about her concerns regarding a strong presence at the precinct to serve remaining areas of unincorporated SE King County and he strongly agreed. However, Erin noted that some of the other council members apparently did not agree and voted against what is best for this area regarding to law enforcement coverage.

To read Erin's full report, hover over the Fairwood Greens site in the navigation bar above under "Communities A-G."

Fairwood Neighborhood Sales Galore this Weekend!

May 17
Get out your change and take advantage of at least three Fairwood neighborhood yard sales this weekend. If you live in those neighborhoods and have a few items you'd like to sell, a little scrambling to organize might result in a good payoff!

For future neighborhood sale information, check back with us regularly!

Sales this weekend include:

Candlewood/Carriage Wood Community Garage Sale | Fri., May 17-Sat., May 18
These communities are accessed from Petrovitsky Road, just east of Fairwood's Retail areas.

Youth Rummage Sale, Fairwood United Methodist Church | Fri., May 17-Sat., May 18
Fairwood Community United Methodist Church youth are having a rummage sale on May 17 – 18 to help raise money for their mission trip to Belize this year.  Sale runs Friday May 17 from 8 am – 4 pm and Saturday May 18 from 9 am to 3 pm.  Senior high youth are going to Belize to help work on building projects for the disabled, disadvantaged or elderly which can include painting, building or repairing wheelchair ramps, and/or building porches or stairs.  Junior high youth are going to the Nez Pierce reservation in  Idaho.  Church address is 15255 SE Fairwood Blvd., Renton WA 98058.  Questions, please call Kathy Porter at 425 254-0620.

Lake Desire Community/Spring Garage Sale | Saturday, May 18, 8-ish to Noon

Happy hunting!

King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office
updates Fairwood double murder case

May 13
Chadd Boysen, 26, accused of murdering his two elderly grandparents pled not guilty to two counts of aggravated first degree murder at an April 4 King County arraignment hearing.

Boysen's grandparents were long-time Fairwood-area residents, and the murders shook the surrounding community.

Since that April 4 hearing, the prosecutor's office has been reviewing the case to determine whether they will seek the death penalty. At an April 26 hearing, an extension for making this decision was requested and granted.

The other option to the death penalty is life imprisonment.

According to Ian Goodhew, Deputy Chief of Staff for the King County Prosecutor's Office, the State v. Boysen case requires extensive preparation, and the Court is updated on the progress of both the prosecution's and defense's preparation for the trial, called a case setting hearing.

Judge Douglas North has been assigned to this case and will hear the case until completion, according to Goodhew.

"The attorneys for both the prosecution and the defense appeared. The prosecutor’s office asked for an extension of the deadline to make a decision regarding the death penalty until June 3rd, which the court granted. The next court hearing is June 7, 2013," said Goodhew. 

"Cases that are charged with aggravated murder are the most serious cases we have in the criminal justice system. So there is likely to be several case setting hearings in this case before a trial date is eventually set at the discretion of the court."

It is thought that several family members were present at the April 26 hearing.

Boysen is accused of strangling his Fairwood Greens grandparents, Robert Taylor, 82, and Norma Taylor, 80, not long after his release from serving nine months at the Monroe Correctional Complex for an attempted burglary charge. The Taylors were reportedly found in a closet of a spare bedroom in their home on March 9.

Boysen is being held without bail.

Kentwood's Production of 'Hairspray'
runs through May 11

May 4
Kentwood High School's Kentwood Players are in the first of two weeks of performances of the hilarious musical production of 'Hairspray.'

Performances run Wednesday through Saturday, May 1-4, and May 8-11 at 7pm.

Performances are at the Kentwood High School Performing Arts Center in nearby Covington.

A girl achieves her dream of performing on a TV dance show set in 1962 Baltimore, when racial integration was still a challenge.

When a dancer leaves her favorite teen dance show, Tracy Turnblad auditions and wins an opportunity to dance on the all-white Corny Collins Show, she watches the ugly face of discrimination and works to integrate the show.

Directed by Rebecca Lloyd, performances are supported by a full orchestra, skilled dancers, and accomplished vocalists. Tickets at the door are $10 and $8 with ASB card.

Fairwood-Area National Merit Scholars Announced

April 27

National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) released the names of the first group of winners in the 58th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

Approximately 1,000 distinguished high school seniors have won corporate-sponsored National Merit Scholarship awards financed by about 200 corporations, company foundations, and other business organizations. Scholars were selected from students who advanced to the Finalist level in the National Merit Scholarship competition and met criteria of their scholarship sponsors. Corporate sponsors provide National Merit Scholarships for Finalists who are children of their employees, who are residents of communities the company serves, or who plan to pursue college majors or careers the sponsor wishes to encourage.

Most of these awards are renewable for up to four years of college undergraduate study and provide annual stipends that range from $500 to $10,000 per year. Some provide a single payment between $2,500 and $5,000. Recipients can use their awards at any regionally accredited U.S. college or university of their choice.

Semifinalists were announced last fall, and this shorter list includes the first group of winners. Fairwood Community News reviewed lists for Kent, Renton, and Tahoma School Districts.

Local Winners
Kent Meridian High School
Jonathan W. Hanson

Kentlake High School:
Michael T. Raybuck

Kentridge High School
James K. Dugan
Timothy B. Ie

Funding for these National Merit Scholarships is provided by corporate organizations that
represent nearly all sectors of American industry. Sponsors from the business community have underwritten awards offered in all 58 competitions, expending or committing more than $700 million to support the intellectual development of the nation’s scholastically talented youth.

About 1.5 million juniors in some 22,000 high schools entered the 2013 National Merit
Scholarship competition when they took the 2011 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. In September 2012, some 16,000 Semifi nalists were designated on a state representational basis in numbers proportional to each state’s percentage of the national total of graduating high school seniors. Semifi nalists were the highest-scoring program entrants in each state and represented less than one percent of the nation’s seniors.

To be considered for a National Merit Scholarship, Semifinalists had to fulfill requirements
to advance to Finalist standing. Each Semifi nalist was asked to complete a detailed
scholarship application, which included writing an essay and providing information about
extracurricular activities, awards, and leadership positions. Semifi nalists also had to have an outstanding academic record, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, and earn SAT scores that confi rmed their qualifying test performance. From the Semifinalist group, some 15,000 met Finalist requirements.

By the conclusion of the 2013 competition, about 8,000 Finalists will have been selected
to receive National Merit Scholarships totaling over $35 million. Winners are the Finalist
candidates judged to have the strongest combination of academic skills and achievements, extracurricular accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies.

Kentridge Production of 'Evita' begins this week

April 21
Fairwood area drama students, The Kentridge Players, perform 'Evita' for its spring perfomance this week.

Performances run Wednesday through Saturday, April 24-27 and May 1-4, at 7pm. An additional matinee performance is scheduled for Saturday, May 4 at 2pm.

Performances are at the Kentridge High School Performing Arts Center.

Eva Perón used her smarts and charisma to rise meteorically from the slums of Argentina to the presidential mansion as First Lady.

Adored by her people as a champion for the poor, she became one of the most powerful women in the world — while her greed, outsized ambition and fragile health made her one of the most tragic.

EVITA tells Eva's passionate and unforgettable true story, and features some of theater's most beautiful songs, including "Don't Cry for Me Argentina," "Another Suitcase in Another Hall" and "High Flying, Adored."

Directed by Jennifer Grajewski, performances are supported by a full orchestra, skilled dancers, and accomplished vocalists. Reserved tickets are $10 and General Seating are tickets are $8. To prepurchase tickets, CLICK HERE.

Girl Scout Volunteer Fair this weekend

April 17
On Saturday, April 20, Girl Scouts of Western Washington is hosting a Volunteer Fair from 10 am to 1 pm at Cedar Heights Middle School in Covington.

Experienced volunteers and staff will have information about the wide variety of volunteer opportunities available for all ages, from camp counseling to troop leadership and council internships. Something for everyone will be available.

Refreshments, entertainment and Girl Scout activities are also planned.

Renton School District selects new superintendent

April 9
Renton School District board members have selected Dr. Merri Rieger as the new superintendent of the Renton School District.

Dr. Rieger is currently chief student achievement officer in the Kent School District. She has also served as assistant superintendent for learning and school improvement in Kent, high school principal in the Bremerton School District, and dean of students and high school teacher in the Auburn School District. Dr. Rieger earned her B.A., M.A., and Ed.D at Was...hington State University.

Dr. Rieger will take office in Renton on July 1.

"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Merri Rieger as our new superintendent,” said Board President Lynn Desmarais. “Merri has the depth of experience and sense of vision that make her a perfect fit for the Renton School District.”

As one of three top candidates for superintendent, Dr. Rieger met with numerous community members and business leaders, as well as parents, teachers and staff, to discuss her qualifications and answer questions ranging from her leadership philosophy to why she chose to apply for the position. After each session, participants offered school board members their opinions about whether this candidate was the right fit for Renton.

“Renton’s reputation attracted a strong field of candidates due in part to the tremendous community support we receive,” said Desmarais, “and with the community's help in assessing leadership potential, Dr. Rieger rose to the top. Nearly forty people committed to spending several evenings with us, listening to interviews and offering comments to guide us in selecting our finalists, and many participated in the three day-long final selection process. As a result, the district has yet another highly capable leader, and our students and families will continue to benefit."

Town Hall Meeting Set for April 4

March 31
King County Council Member Reagan Dunn and King County Sheriff John Urquhart are hosting a Fairwood Town Hall meeting this Thursday, April 4 at 7pm in Fairwood Elementary School's gym/multi-purpose room.  

Fairwood residents are encouraged to attend this meeting, offering an opportunity to discuss King County's current service levels in the greater unincorporated Fairwood community.

This open forum session will include questions from the floor to both Dunn and newly elected King County Sheriff John Urquhart. Sheriff Urquhart will also focus on the current investigation of the recent double homicide that occurred a few weeks ago in our neighborhood and will answer audience questions.

Fairwood Greens' Vice President Erin Aboudara noted this meeting offers an excellent opportunity to express concerns or issues our elected representatives can address for their constituents.

"If you have ever wanted to request greater law enforcement support for Fairwood or improved roads and sidewalks, now is the time to bring your most pressing questions and concerns to the attention of these department representatives and our local elected officials," said Aboudara. 

KC Council Memeber Reagan Dunn is Fairwood's representative, which includes the 9th Council District covering much of SE King County.

Fairwood Community News Welcomes
Fairwood Greens HOA to the FCN Community

March 24
Fairwood Community News is pleased to add Fairwood Greens Homowners Association to our collaborative group of organizations that supports FCN's mission to be a vital resource of information in real time to the greater Fairwood area. Fairwood Greens HOA includes 1499 homes.

While Fairwood Greens HOA maintains its own website, they are also interested in participating with the FCN network, supporting its information resource component. Readers will see Fairwood Greens news posts of community information on FCN's homepage, and that information generated will also be posted on their web page within the FCN website.

"We're pleased Fairwood Greens sees the value in FCN's ability to strengthen our community as the local online information resource," said publisher Tami Tedrow-Howard.

"Fairwood Greens is a cornerstone community, and we look forward to this partnership as we have with other homeowners associations in the area."

Fairwood Greens HOA Vice President Erin Aboudara took a few moments to talk about this new partnership and provide a number of items of interest to our community. We'll share that information in two parts.

FCN: Welcome to the FCN Group! We're excited about engaging with Fairwood Greens! Tell us a bit about your history with us.

Erin: I have been looking for modern ways to communicate with our homeowners and the surrounding community, and I think what Fairwood Community News offers people is an interesting and engaging way to get more out of our of local news faster than print media, and advertising that is geared to our greater Fairwood community.  

This could not have been more evident a few years back during the second incorporation campaign in 2009--when public comment was very active on issues that would impact our community's future.  

Of course, at that time I was not on the FGHOA Board.   I was a PTA mom with two elementary schoolers at Fairwood, and I volunteered to help the pro-incorporation campaign of a proposed city of Fairwood, which as we all know failed--but not as badly as the annexation to Renton option the following year.  

At this time, I am fairly neutral on all of that, given the state of the local and national economy.  I think remaining unincorporated and continuing to work with the county as much as possible is the wisest choice for now, that is what the voters have said three times in just a few years time.

They could change their minds in the future, but we don't know what that may be at this time.  Our HOA Board does not take a position at this time on those issues.  

FCN: You're right; we were very invested in providing as much information from both sides during that public process. People were really engaged, and we were pleased to be that conduit so the community could make an informed decision.

Tell me a bit more about your role on the Fairwood Greens HOA Board (FGHOA). We're excited about your connections, which we know will be an asset to our readers for information.

Erin: My volunteer work for the FGHOA is currently serving as Vice President, and I am the External Affairs/Government Relations Chair.  I have made some contacts in the county government, and the city of Renton, Fire District 40 & Renton Fire & Emergency Services through the emergency preparedness project. I took on this shortly after the Japanese earthquake in March 2011 when I did CERT training, and even now, with this study from local office the National Park Service and Oregon State University, focusing on community recreation and use of parks, trails, etc. by our homeowners.  

I feel I have had a great opportunity to represent our neighborhood and keep people in the area informed about what is going on around us these past nearly three years.   I have made some new friends of the Board members and other homeowners that I may have never gotten to know if I did not decide to accept a Trustee position in 2010.  

I highly recommend to your readers that they consider serving on their HOA Board--it is valuable to help the neighborhood, maintain and even improve home values by doing improvements to common areas, and keep the community safe and informed of news that may affect them at home.

FCN: Great plug for volunteering on your own HOA Board! Not only will those connections benefit one's neighborhood, but it's clear personal growth and lasting friendships result.

Look for our Part 2 discussion soon!

As always, Fairwood Community News welcomes all HOAs to participate in the network. Whether your HOA need is a fully operating website or as an information/network resource, your participation is free and fully customizable. Examples of that customization can be viewed by clicking the HOAs listed below.

Candlewood Ridge/Carriage Wood HOA

CR/CW Switch Story

Fairwood Greens HOA

Fairwood West HOA

Lake Desire Community

Please contact us at info@fairwoodcommunitynews.com.

Food Truck Round Up today at Renton Uwajimaya

Uwajimaya Food Truck Round Up (Uwajimaya photo)

March 23
Those famous, typically Seattle-located, delectable Food Trucks will be parked at Renton's Uwajimaya parking lot today from 11am - 5pm. This is Uwajimaya's third year to host the Round Up.

Uwajimaya has planned children's activities, including a scavenger hunt, ramune ring toss, and face painting (12-3pm).

Participating food trucks include The Bistro Box, Djung on Wheels, Fajita Z's, Fish Basket, Jemil's Big Easy, Za'aTar, Raney Brothers BBQ, Six Coins, Street Donuts, The Box, Tokyo Dog, and Xplosive!

Renton School District announces
Superintedent Finalists

March 21
The top three candidates for Renton Schools superintendent have been selected. The finalists will each spend a day in the district in early April, meeting with district staff and parents, city council members, business leaders and others, and will greet the public at three separate meetings. Candidates include:

Dr. Lester “Flip” Herndon, Jr., superintendent, Bremerton School District:  Dr. Herndon has also served as assistant superintendent of K-12 support in the Tacoma School District; principal in the Shoreline School District; and social studies teacher in school districts in Connecticut and New Jersey. His B.A. was earned at Whitman College, his M.Ed. at Harvard and his PhD. at the University of Washington.

Dr. Merri Rieger, chief student achievement officer, Kent School District: Dr. Rieger has also served as assistant superintendent for learning and school improvement in the Kent School District, high school principal in the Bremerton School District, and dean of students and high school teacher in the Auburn School District.  Dr. Rieger earned her B.A., M.A., and Ph.D at Washington State University.

Dr. Crystalee Sweeting, assistant superintendent for instruction, learning, curriculum and assessment in the Puyallup School District: Dr. Sweeting has also served as executive director of special services, Title I/LAP, ELL, and health services as well as elementary principal in the Puyallup School District; and special education teacher and elementary teacher in Ellensburg and Federal Way. Dr. Sweeting earned her B.A. at Central Washington University, and both her M.Ed and her Ph.D. at the University of Washington.

Three community meetings planned.

Daughter of Fairwood Victims
and Mother of Suspect Speaks

March 14
By King County Sheriff's Cindi West
On Wednesday afternoon, I sat down and talked with Melanie Taylor, the daughter of murder victims Bob and Norma Taylor, and the mother of suspect Chadd Boysen.

The family has asked the media and public to respect their privacy during this difficult time but said there were some things she wanted to say about her son, her parents and the detectives involved in the investigation.

First, we talked about Chadd.  She and her former husband adopted Chadd when he was a baby.  Melanie said she “loved him from the minute he was put in my arm.”  Chadd was a very loving boy that did not mind showing her affection when she dropped him at school.  Because adoptions were “closed” at the time she never had any medical history of his birth parents. Regardless of what that may have been she still would have loved him.

Chadd and his grandparents had a very special close bond. They were like “second parents” to Chadd.  When he was little his grandparents would pick him up from daycare and he would spend the afternoon with them until Melanie got off work.  Bob and Norma loved Chadd “more than life.”

She said Chadd was a good student.  He attended high school and did the “Running Start Program” at a local college. 

Melanie said as Chadd grew up his addictive behavior came out.  Everything he would do, would be to the extreme. She said Chadd started hanging out with “the wrong people” and “lied to her like addicts do, but he never threatened the family and the family never felt threatened by him.”

Melanie said she was the one that turned him in for a series of robberies after she found prescription bottles in her house that did not come from the pharmacy the family used. She said she  “loved him, but he needed to obey the law.”  Chad was convicted of multiple robberies at 18-19 years of age and spent 5 years in prison. 

During Chadd’s 5 years in prison she and her parents visited him every other week.  She said they also sent him letters of support and care packages.  She said it was during these visit in prison that she could tell he was changing.  He became more “rough” which she felt he needed to do to survive in prison.

Towards the end of his 5 year prison sentence she told him that he needed to “make changes and make wise choices when he was released.”  She also told him she would not visit him if he was imprisoned again.  

Sometime after Chadd was released from prison he severely injured his back playing soccer.  He had surgery to repair the back and had to have a second surgery when the first one didn’t take.   Chadd ended up with a serious infection which required more hospitalization, another surgery which of course meant drugs.  Soon his drug problems and the lying started again.

Chadd eventually had more run-ins with the police and eventually was arrested and imprisoned for burglarizing a home.  He spent 9 months in the Monroe prison before being released on Friday, March 8th.

Melanie said it was very painful to have “tough love” and not visit Chadd in prison as she had earlier warned him.  She said she wrote him and sent him care packages wanting “ him to know she still loved him but did not agree with his choices.”

As the time drew closer for Chadd to get out of prison an aunt made arrangements for him to go into a 6 month treatment program through the Salvation Army.  His grandparents said he was excited to get out and start the program.

The day he was released Bob and Norma picked him up and spent about 6 hours of the day running errands with him to get him things he needed to start the rehab program.

Melanie said that same evening they had a dinner at her parent’s house to celebrate his release.  “Chadd was upbeat and talked about the wonderful day he had with his grandparents.” He never showed any signs of aggression that night.

Bob and Norma
Melanie’s parents Robert (Bob) and Norma celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary on March 5th.  Her father wanted to dress in a suit and take Norma to his favorite restaurant, Red Lobster.  However, Norma did not want to dress up so they decided to take-out KFC and celebrate at home with their dog “Princess.”

Bob and Norma always opened their house up to friends and family. Melanie said when she was a kid they would invite friends over and decorate the house for Halloween.  Her parents were always loving and giving.

Norma worked at a bank for 25 years and Bob was the co-owner of a cabinet business.  She said her dad had a woodshop behind the house and every Christmas they would do a craft project for friends and family.  Last year her parents made wood cut-out, snowmen.   Family and friends each got one unfinished and would paint their own.   This year Bob and Norma had been working on cut-out reindeers. 

Norma lost her hearing about 30 years ago.   Even though she couldn’t hear she would attend the grandchildren’s school program.  It was something she really enjoyed.

Melanie said of her parents, “when it came to Chadd, they saw the good in him and were forgiving of his choices.” 

Melanie said they were like “soldiers and gave their lives for him.  If they were given a choice to die and save others they would.”  She said her parents “valued Chadd” and she believes other lives were saved because of her parents' deaths. 

Melanie finished by saying it is “hard to lose them both,” but she is “glad they are together.”  She said regardless of what “switched” in Chadd,  “they still love him and I do too.” “They were warrior spirits fighting for a cause and that cause was Chadd.”

Melanie closed by talking about the investigation.  She said “as stressed out as I am I have grand support from the police. The investigation has been orchestrated and played out as best as possible and done with professionalism and compassion.”

Double Murder Suspect Boysen Spent Night
after Murders in Tukwila Hotel

March 13
King County Sheriff's Office
King County Sheriff’s detectives said murder suspect Michael (Chadd) Boysen spent Saturday night in a Tukwila hotel room after killing his grandparents.

On Monday, King County Sheriff’s detectives learned that Boysen had used his real name to check into the Extended Stay America  in the 15600 block of West Valley Hwy Saturday afternoon and had spent one night before leaving.

On Tuesday morning a clerk at the West Shore Hotel in Lincoln City, Oregon alerted police that Boysen had checked into that hotel late Monday night.

Boysen was taken into custody Tuesday night by Oregon officials after a long standoff.  Boysen is currently in custody and being treated at the Legacy Emanuel Hospital in Portland for what appears to be self inflicted cuts. His condition has been upgraded to “serious.”

King County Sheriff’s Detectives have been in Oregon since Tuesday working on the investigation. While at the scene of the standoff, detectives also learned that Oregon State Police had located the murder victim’s missing car in a Wal-Mart parking lot in Salem, Oregon on Tuesday.  Detectives learned that Boysen had dumped the victim’s car in the Wal-Mart parking lot and paid cash for a used Ford Taurus at a nearby used car lot.

Detectives are declining to share information about the homicide crime scene but said the “cause of death” will likely be released by the King County Medical Examiner’s Office on Thursday afternoon.

Boysen will stay in Oregon until he is extradited back to Washington.

Fairwood Double Murder Update

Updated: March 12
King County Sheriff has advised that Boysen may be in a motel room in Lincoln City Oregon.   Oregon Swat teams are at the scene. 

"We will not be making any further comments until this situation is resolved," said Sergeant Cindi West, King County Sheriff's Public Information Officer.

March 11
King County Sheriff John Urquhart held a press conference today and released new information about the Fairwood murders that occurred this weekend.

Sheriff Urquhart said that suspect Michael (Chadd) Boysen was released from the Monroe Correctional Facility on Friday.   Boysen’s grandparents picked him up at the prison and drove him around running errands, including getting him a Washington I.D. card.

On Friday night family members had a gathering at the Fairwood house celebrating Boysen’s release.  Boysen was to spend the night at the Fairwood house with his grandparents and spend the next night at another relative’s house.

Family members left the house after the gathering and received a text from Boysen’s grandmother thanking them for attending the function.

On Saturday, a relative arrived at the house around noon to pick up Boysen.   No one answered the door.  After repeated attempts to contact Boysen and the grandparents via phone, Boysen’s mother drove to the house and used a key to enter.   Once inside, she found the bodies of her parents.

During the investigation, detectives received information that Boysen had previously talked about killing his grandparents and getting guns and killing authority figures.  Detectives said Boysen had done internet searches looking for “gun shows” sometime just before or after he killed his grandparents. 

“We need to do everything we can to get this man off the street as soon as possible,” said Sheriff John Urquhart.  “His threats against authority figures make him very dangerous and unpredictable.”

Detectives are not saying how the grandparents were killed.  They would say that a gun was not used, but the deaths were violent.

Double Murder of Fairwood Couple
Focuses on Grandson as Suspect

March 10
Just after 6pm yesterday King County deputies responded to a house in the 16200 block of 145 Ave SE after a woman called 911 and reported that she found her parents dead in their home. The home is located not far from Fairwood Elementary in the Fairwood Greens neighborhood.

King County Sheriffs now think the couple's grandson, Michael (Chad) Boysen is suspected of murdering the couple in their Fairwood home sometime late Friday night or Saturday morning.  Boysen had recently been released from prison after serving a year for burglary.

When police arrived they found an 82 year old man and his 80 year old wife dead inside the home.  Detectives have not released details about the crime scene or manner of death but said they are investigating the scene as a double homicide. 

Firearms Activity
King County Sheriff’s detectives said they received information that murder suspect Boysen may be seeking to obtain firearms and is considered an extreme danger to the public and police.

Detectives said the credibility of the information was bolstered by Boysen’s internet searches just before or after his grandparents double murder.  Boysen had done an internet search of gun shows throughout the Pacific Northwest and Nevada.

Detectives also released an actual photo of the victim’s vehicle missing from the crime scene. 

The vehicle is a red, 2001 Chrysler 300 with Washington License plates 046XXU. (Note-the bumper sticker on the trunk,  also the vehicle appears dark in the photo but is RED). The photo is the actual car; however, it is red, which is not clearly apparent in this photo.

Considered extremely dangerous, those who may spot Boysen or the vehicle are urged to call 911 immediately.

Suspect Data
MICHAEL (Chad) BOYSEN
5’10” 170 lbs
Hazel eyes
26 years old

Annual Boy Scouts Pancake Breakfast
set for next Saturday, March 9

March 3
By Heather Smith

It’s time for the annual Pancake Breakfast, which is cooked and served by the local Boy Scout Troop #455 at the Fairwood Community United Methodist Church - 15255 SE Fairwood Blvd.

Come enjoy a great breakfast on Saturday, March 9 with the scouts from 7 am to 11 am. The scouts will be in full uniform to serve you. Plus, there will be the usual book fair and bake sale.

Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for kids 10 and under. Photos of our past outdoor camping activities made possible due to fundraising efforts such as this will also be displayed. Your donations, as always, are put to good use.

Tickets will be on sale at the door or you may contact Heather Smith, Heather@smith.net or 425-917-9533.

Those interested in joining Boy Scout Troop #455 are encouraged to see our website for more details at www.troop455.com or contact scoutmaster@troop455.com.   

Thank you for supporting the Fairwood area Boy Scouts!

Fairwood Greens Residents invited
to a 'Community Conversation' set for March 9

March 2
By Erin Aboudara
Oregon State University will hold a Community Satisfaction and Outdoor Recreation "community conversation," at the Fairwood Library, 17009 140th Ave SE, on Saturday, March 9th, from 2:30-4 PM.  In addition to the discussion, additional activities may include a short survey and mapping activity.

The event is limited to only 30 participants, so Fairwood Green residents are encouraged to please call Dr. Rebeca Rivera, study coordinator at (425) 505-0709 or e-mail to OSUcommunity.rec.study@gmail.com to participate or to obtain more information about this study.  Residents must be 18 or older in order to participate.  Survey participant names will remain anonymous.

This event is being held by the local branch of the US Forest Service in partnership with Oregon State University.   Such topics to be included in the conversation with Fairwood Greens residents will be neighborhood selection and general satisfaction with recreational and outdoor activities.  

The purpose of this research partnership is to help public agencies better understand the needs for housing, transportation and outdoor recreation throughout King County.

Fairwood Greens is one of only eight neighborhoods that have been pre-selected for this study.  It will be the only unincorporated King County neighborhood included in the final study.  The Fairwood Greens Homeowners' Association has no affiliation with the research study.

Fairwood Homeowner Thwarts Intruder

February 23
Last weekend a Fairwood neighbor experienced a break in while the family was asleep in the home. 

On Saturday, February 16 at about 4 a.m., a brazen invader, probably intent on committing a burglary, broke into the Fairwood resident’s vehicle, stealing items that included a garage door opener.  The homeowner awoke to the noise of the home’s garage door opening and shutting and witnessed the burglar fleeing the scene.

The homeowner, concerned that the thug had been scoping out the neighborhood and the family’s garage, wanted to alert the community to be on the alert and always report suspicious activities. Armed and ready with a bat, the intruder would have been surprised by the homeowner if he hadn't fled.

A King County Sheriff quickly responded, but this homeowner was unsure about whether the burglar has been caught.

“I really don't feel the presence of a neighborhood watch.  I know that earlier this summer a random drunk person tried to break in/get in our neighbor’s house during the night.  Our fuel has been stolen from our cars on several occasions.   I know there is crime everywhere, but these incidences have been a little too close for comfort,” said the homeowner.

Their garage opener has been reprogrammed, but the incident has had lasting effects.

All are encouraged to keep a watchful eye and quickly report any suspicious activities by calling 9-1-1.  If vehicles cannot be parked in garages, removing tempting valuables may discourage this type of activity.

Although this neighbor said no valuables were stolen, leaving the garage door opener in the vehicle made it easier to gain access the home. 

“It's extremely frustrating.  We feel violated but are extremely lucky it wasn't worse and we are safe."

To obtain updated illegal activities in your neighborhood, regularly check Fairwood Community News' Police Blotter page, located on the navigation bar above.

Fairwood Community News Welcomes Candlewood/Carriage Wood HOA

February 13, 2013
Fairwood Community News (FCN) is thrilled to add the Candlewood Ridge / Carriage Wood Homeowners Association (CR/CW) to its list of communities served in the Fairwood area.  This partnership includes supporting the HOA by posting association news on its own web page within the Fairwood Community News Website and supporting these neighborhoods when opportunities arise.  The Candlewood Ridge/Carriage Wood Homeowners Association includes 850 homes.

To access the CR/CW website supplied by FCN, hover over the “Communities A-G” tab in navigation bar.  A drop-down menu will appear, where the Candlewood/Carriage Wood site can be clicked.  The association will also continue to maintain its own website.

The partnership between CR/CW and FCN signals a significant change in the association’s communication approach.  Beginning this month, CR/CW will switch from publishing its homeowners association minutes from hard copy, newspaper format to 100 percent web-based publishing, via www.crcwhoa.org and www.fairwoodcommunitynews.com.

FCN asked CR/CW’s acting President Valerie Fraizer to take few moments to talk about the changes.

FCN: First, welcome to the Fairwood Community News group!  We’re excited about partnering with you to get the word out on Fairwood neighborhoods. 

Valerie: Thanks so much.  When you shared the mission of FCN, we felt your site would help us in our efforts to reach out to our homeowners and support the work you’re doing to be a resource for the community.  Sharing our news via your website made good sense to us.  The cost (free) was appealing, too.

FCN: Can you talk a bit about the board’s decision to move from publishing of minutes in a traditional format to electronic publishing?

Valerie: The board takes its role seriously, and part of that job is to be good stewards of the association’s funds.  We have been paying a significant amount of money each year, almost $6,000, to post our minutes in our former format.  Part of the discussion to make the change was the financial need to address needed property updates, with the most immediate need in the Candlewood Ridge neighborhood.  The money we save can be used to address those needs.  The internet is now the go-to source for communication for many homeowner associations, and we’re also fully embracing it.

FCN: You have posted this decision for a few months.  What has been the reaction from the homeowners?

Valerie: We were quite surprised, but we have had received no concerns from CR/CW homeowners, including no comments at our recent annual meeting.  The newspaper we did use voiced opposition to the idea, but we consulted with our attorney and were advised that we are fully compliant with our bylaws.  No federal, state or other requirements are being overlooked by this move, either.

FCN: You mentioned work was needed in Candlewood Ridge.  Would you provide a bit more information about that need?

Valerie:  Unlike Carriage Wood, Candlewood Ridge contains a number of roundabout islands in cul-de-sacs that have experienced significant damage.  Those islands fall under the CR/CW’s jurisdiction, and the HOA is responsible for their maintenance.  Curbs have been damaged, and overgrown tree roots have invaded drainage vaults.  All those issues have required us to develop a plan to repair those islands and find a long-term solution, which unfortunately, is the HOA’s responsibility to fix. 

FCN: Thanks for taking a moment to provide us with an update on this move, something Fairwood Community News fully supports.  We look forward to a long-standing relationship with you that we hope will extend beyond posting your minutes.  Is there anything else you want to share?

Valerie:  We look forward to working with you, too.  I want to note that the Board is interested in accommodating our homeowners, so if anyone has concerns about this move and how it personally affects them, we encourage them to contact us, and we will find a workable solution.

(Editor's Note: The CR/CW HOA contacted Fairwood Flyer to include an ad in the February final issue, notifying homeowners of the switch to electronic format. This space is provided to all HOAs, but this particular ad was curiously "omitted." To see the ad, CLICK HERE.)

Fairwood Crime Updates

February 10, 2013
© Fairwood Community News
In an effort to encourage a good neighbor approach to keeping our communities safe, Fairwood Community News is now providing crime information for Fairwood and neighboring areas.  One of the best defenses is to offer a watchful eye and immediately report suspicious activities.  Don’t hesitate; call 911. 

Crime activities are grouped by week and then by type of crime.  Information is listed by the crime (details when available), date of crime, street location, and response agency.  

The Fairwood area covers three jurisdictions; therefore, three law enforcement agencies serve sections of our community.  To assist you in understanding the more specific area where the crime was committed, the final entry for each listing identifies the agency that responded to the crime.  From there, you may want to track the crime location based on the address information provided.

Encourage your neighbors to monitor this data. The latest postings can be found by linking to the Police Blotter Page located in the navigation bar above.

Poachers Kill Two Deer in Fairwood Greens

February 1
Recently, Fairwood Greens homeowners were exposed to the illegal killing of two deer the weekend of January 12-13.

The deer were reportedly killed on the grounds of Fairwood Elementary School.

All hunting is illegal in communities. If this type of activity is spotted or suspected, residents are encouraged to call 9-1-1. If you have any information about this incident, please also contact the King County Sheriff.

Renton School District Moves Forward In Superintendent Search, Public Feedback Sought

January 3, 2013
Part of its new Superintendent search, the Renton School District is seeking the public's help for the next step in the search process.

According to Executive Director of Community Relations Randy Matheson, the District Board of Directors "is asking for community support in developing the position description and leadership profile to guide the selection of the next school district superintendent."

The District is seeking the community's feedback through an online survey, which will assist the Board in developing the leadership profile. Those interested in participating in this survey can CLICK HERE to link to the survey site.

A series of ten multiple choice and short answer responses are sought, focused on identifying strengths, challenges, qualities, and priorities related to the selection of the next superintendent. The district is limiting feedback to one response per person/computer.

Outgoing Superintendent Dr. Mary Alice Heuschel was named Governor Elect Jay Inslee's Chief of Staff, which led to her resignation. Assistant Superintendent Vera Risdon was named interim superintendent on December 5, and she will hold this position during the months-long search for a new superintendent.

On December 18, the Board announced the selection of Northwest Leadership Associates to conduct the search for the District's new superintendent.

Heuschel will assume her new position as Chief of Staff when Jay Inslee takes office on
January 16.

"The Lake Desire Community Club is appreciative of having a place on the website to post our community updates.  It is great to have our local Fairwood community information one click away.  Thanks for all of your hard work on this website!"

- Heather Smith
Lake Desire Community Club

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