Flash Family Award Winner Elliot Newman
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Elliot Newman (left) receives his
award from Mayor Benson Wong
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Each year the Youth and Family Services Department (MIYFS) awards the Flash Family Inspirational Award (FFIA) to honor a Mercer Island senior adult (55 and older) who exemplifies the spirit of good sportsmanship and/or community leadership, and who possesses an optimistic attitude and friendly demeanor while acting as a role model to others.
The 2019 FFIA honors Island resident and former Mayor Elliot Newman, whose
volunteer and professional work over many years perfectly aligns with the philosophy of the award. His accomplishments and contribution to both Mercer Island, and the greater King County community, are extraordinarily numerous.
His initial work in the PNW involved educating Mercer Island residents about air pollution generated by the 1980's expansion of I-90 and informed improved roadway design.
Elliott first served on the City's Planning Commission in 1986/7, then on the City Council from 1988-1995. During that time, he helped lead efforts to r
aise eco-awareness in order to reduce the Island's carbon footprint, and later served on the City's Sustainability Task Force.
He helped reestablish senior representation on the MIYFS advisory board to evaluate YFS and Park and Recreation services to ensure they reflected the needs of seniors, and to help identify services that had been overlooked. He also served on the Open Space Conservancy Trust Board for ten years, six years as Chair.
In addition to his Island activities, Elliot has served with many off-Island programs and foundations.
The City expresses its deep gratitude and congratulations to Elliot for all of the countless MI residents who have benefited from his tireless and gracious efforts to make Mercer Island a better place to live. Bravo!
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