January 2020 Meeting Recap: Veterans, Relationship-Building and the 'Afters'

Story and Photos by Rachel Friederich, ICSEW Communications Chair  Experts offered workshops on employment support for veterans, diffusing difficult relationships and effective communications at the ICSEW’s Jan. 21 meeting at the Department of Labor and Industries.    Below is a summary of key takeaways from the meeting. Meeting minutes, full presentations and handouts are available on…

ICSEW Bill Alert SB 1145

As part of its work, the ICSEW Legislative and Policy subcommittee provides Bill Alerts during the current legislative cycle. Its purpose is to inform state employees of pending legislation that may impact them. As state employees, we cannot use state time or resources to lobby for or against legislative proposals in accordance with RCW 42.52.160…

ICSEW Bill Alert SJ 5291

As part of its work, the ICSEW Legislative and Policy subcommittee provides Bill Alerts during the current legislative cycle. Its purpose is to inform state employees of pending legislation that may impact them. As state employees, we cannot use state time or resources to lobby for or against legislative proposals in accordance with RCW 42.52.160…

ICSEW Bill Alert: SB 1888

As part of its work, the ICSEW Legislative and Policy subcommittee provides Bill Alerts during the current legislative cycle. Its purpose is to inform state employees of pending legislation that may impact them. As state employees, we cannot use state time or resources to lobby for or against legislative proposals in accordance with RCW 42.52.160…

Eat a Bigger, Better Lunch for Better Health

Editor’s Note: This article originally appeared on the Vibrant Soulful Blog by Annie Barrett Anahad O’Conner of the New York Times writes that “a growing body of research suggests that our bodies function optimally when we align our eating patterns with our circadian rhythms, the innate 24-hour cycles that tell our bodies when to wake up,…

Commentary: Black Community Business Resource Group on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Editor’s Note: Today is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The Washington State Black Community Business Resource Group has submitted an article about Dr. King’s Legacy and the work the group is doing to apply diverse perspectives and experiences to the examination of the issues facing the state of Washington. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day…

Tips to Keep the Holidays Stress Free

Editor’s Note: this article first appeared on the Washington State Department of Corrections’ intranet. The holidays are in full swing. That means extra guests, menu planning, events and managing budgets. Here are some tips on how to manage stress during the festivities. Tips for Dealing With Holiday Stress  Make Your Well Being a Priority If you don’t take…

Laura Watson Named Director of Ecology

From the Office of Gov. Jay Inslee: OLYMPIA–Gov. Jay Inslee named Laura Watson director of the Washington State Department of Ecology today. She replaces Maia Bellon, who Inslee appointed in 2013. “Laura is a proven leader who is deeply committed to protecting our state’s air, water and land,” Inslee said. “She has a deep understanding…

Trailblazing for Women's Equity on and off the Court

Editor’s note: This article originally appeared on the Washington State Department of Corrections’ website. Story and photos by Rachel Friederich, Washington State Department of Corrections GIG HARBOR – “When our powers combine, we change lives.” Those are the words displayed above Corrections Specialist Lynne Newark’s computer. She repeats the words to participants in her cognitive…

Ask the Employee Assistance Program: Holiday Parties

The Department of Enterprise Services’ Employee Assistance Program publishes a monthly Q&A column in its Frontline newsletter for supervisors. The following is an excerpt from the December Issue. You can read the full newsletter and subscribe to it here. Question: The holiday season seems like a good opportunity to host a party for appreciation and…