Dear Redmond blog readers:
As your councilmember, I have been a vocal champion of tree preservation and sustainability in Redmond. I helped craft the last Comprehensive Plan and Transportation Management Plan, both of which set ambitious goals for growth in Redmond while protecting the natural environment and moving toward transit oriented urban centers. I also work hard to make sure that Redmond is one of the leaders in adopting its critical areas and shoreline regulations.
As an elected official, I have endorsed the Wild Sky and Alpine Lakes Wilderness Addition, as well as the Roadless Rule Resolution. I also support Redmond’s partnership with the Cascade Land Conservancy to restore acres of our urban forest to health.
We are now beginning work on a Green Sustainability Initiative for the city to celebrate Redmond’s upcoming centennial. It will involve ambitious goals for energy conservation and carbon reduction, waste management and resource conservation, sustainable development and green infrastructure, and ecosystem conservation and stewardship. One thing I learned from the new Budgeting By Priorities process is that if you don’t measure progress with goals and metrics, you generally don’t get any progress. This initiative holds us accountable to deliver a sustainable city to our children and I want to spend my next term in office keeping the momentum on this critical work.
by Kimberly Allen
Kim Allen
Redmond City Councilmember, #4
kim@kimonthecouncil.com
www.kimonthecouncil.com
425-894-8237
Friday, October 30, 2009
Redmond Councilmember Kimberly Allen speaks on the environment
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Redmond's "Rocket Man" and sons end the season with a Bang.
Here's Dave's story:
In Redmond, 60 Acres park is often used for flying low power model rockets when soccer is not in session, including the winter months. We head to rural areas to launch our 5 pound and larger rockets.
Last weekend, hobby rocketeers gathered in the small central Washington town of Mansfield, near Chelan, for the last big launch of the 2009 Washington Aerospace (WAC) flying season. Students from University of Washington and Ingraham High School participated while learning and demonstrating real rocket science in action.
David's latest project was a team effort with three other local rocketeers. "We wanted to go big. Real big," David said about his team's rocket named "U4EA". At 22' tall and weighing 150 pounds, it was the biggest rocket ever launched at the Mansfield site. "The liftoff was absolutely majestic. And the feeling as we watched it take to the sky, was, well, U4ic!" The rocket used a cluster of five rocket motors to achieve its required thrust and carried two cameras on board. Special altimeters recorded the flight and ensured the parachutes were deployed at the perfect.
While some folks remember the Estes rockets flown in schoolyards or local parks, WAC hosts launches with bigger rockets. The larger rockets can weigh over 100 pounds and fly as high as 14,000'. Coordination with the FAA ensures safe flying for both rockets and airplanes. Rockets at Mansfield fly to an average altitude of 4,500' and weigh around 5 pounds.
Redmond rocketeer Dave Randall says: "I fit squarely into the group of adults known as 'BAR's' - or Born Again Rocketeers." Many adults in the hobby, like Dave, returned to the hobby with their own children participating in rocketry as a science class or Scouting activity. Indeed, the entire Randall family participates in rocketry. From Estes kits to big scratch built rockets, a crowd-favorite "Tin Man" rocket that was featured on the cover of a national rocketry magazine.
Typical rockets require over 20 hours to assemble, paint, and prepare for flight. Schedules for northwest rocket launches can be found at www.rocketsnw.com. The hobby boasts over 3,000 active flyers nationwide with local launches occurring in many states across the country.
- Dave Randall
Dave's rocket story is timely with NASA’s launch of the “Mars Rocket” (2 min. video) on 10/28. The booster on the Mars Rocket was 100 meters long, it reached 150,000 feet and traveled almost 5X the speed of sound.
NAR website (http://www.nar.org/) and WAC website (http://www.washingtonaerospace.org/)
Story and photos by Dave Randall
Edited, Yoder
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Juanita High School Participates in Landmark Statewide Teen Smoking-Cessation Trial
Study is the first of its kind to achieve significant increase in prolonged quit rates
With the help of students of the class of 2003 at Juanita High School, the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center has obtained landmark results from the Hutchinson Study of High School Smoking, the largest randomized trial of teen smoking cessation ever conducted. The study for the first time demonstrated it is possible to:
successfully recruit and retain a large number of adolescent smokers from the general population into a smoking intervention study, and
- significantly impact rates of six-month continuous quitting through personalized, proactive telephone counseling.
The trial, funded by the National Institutes of Health, involved more than 2,000 teenage smokers from 50 high schools in Washington, including Juanita High School. Half of the schools were randomly assigned to the experimental intervention; teens in these schools were invited during their senior year to take part in confidential, personalized telephone counseling designed to help motivate them to quit.
edited by Bob Yoder
abreviated LWSD press release, 10/09
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Editorial: The LWSD School Board's "NO" on Initiative 1033 comes a little late.
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Updated, 10/28: As impactful as I-1033 is to Lake Washington School District funding, it sure took the School Board a long time to issue their unanimous "NO" on I-1033 Resolution. Do you know, the LWSD School Board didn't sign off on their "NO" resolution until last night, 10/26? The last voting day is only 7 days away. The news won't be delivered by the local Reporter newspapers until Saturday! So, unless you are reading this Blog or visit the District web site, the majority of District voters will only have 3 days to find a paper and study the school board's findings. Unfortunately, by then, many voters will have already mailed in their ballots!
Neighboring jurisdictions have planned and announced their Resolution weeks in advance of LWSD:
9/15 - The City of Redmond Council said NO by resolution on 9/15.
9/15 - The City of Kirkland Council said NO by resolution on 9/15
10/5 - Shoreline District School Board said NO on Resolution #2009-22
10/6 - Snoqualmie School District Board said NO on Resolution #745
10/13 - Northshore School Board said NO on Resolution #605
10/14 - Issaquah School Board said NO, 10/14
10/20 - Bellevue School District Board said NO on Resolution 09-26
10/21 - Ballard School Board said NO, 10/21
10/22 - Seattle School Board said NO on Resolution 2261
10/26 - LWSD School Board said NO on their Resolution 2043 last night! The bureaucracy of Seattle School District even beat LWSD in getting the word out to their voters.
It's not like a NO I-1033 is a done deal. Republicans are endorsing the measure. And as President Pendergrass warned last night, the measure appears as a simple way to lower property taxes when, in fact, it's a complex issue that cuts revenues and requires serious study.
LWSD taxpayers count on President Pendergrass and her Directors to give us timely guidance on the serious issues affecting basic education of our children. I beg you to please step-up with your peers in the next election and partner with your constituents. Lake Washington School District does a great job. Please don't leave us in the lurch next time.
by Bob Yoder
Lake Washington School District Board Votes NO on I-1033
During last night's October 26 School Board Meeting, President Jackie Pendergrass (left) read Resolution 2043 declaring the Board of Directors' NO position on I-1033. The Mail-Only Election is only a week away! Their public deliberation, decision and resolution, though helpful, comes a little late to the voters.
During the 10/12 Regular Board Meeting two weeks go, Superintendent Kimball advised the Board that $17.5 Million would be cut from LWSD funding by 2018 if I-1033 passed. This cut would translate into a loss of 219 teachers and a 7 student increase in class size. Despite Kimball's 10/12 advisory, the Board did not vote on a resolution owing to a procedural question; and it appeared they weren't prepared with a resolution in hand. (I attended this meeting and made public comment).
The Superintendent stated "Public Comment" from both sides of the issues had to be requested and put on record for a resolution to pass. I'm not sure why the Board President didn't know this. President Pendergrass invited the Public to comment only one time. And just one public comment was made (by Ms. Lewis.) Pendergrass stated no emails were received on the issue. (I sent two emails to the District last week suggesting NO on I-1033.)
In last night's 10/26 Regular meeting, Superintendent Kimball led the conversation saying by 2015 State cash receipts would be reduced by approximately $5.9 Billion if I-1033 passed. I-1033 would cut $17.5 million from LWSD basic education funding by 2015.
District #5 Director Shahani and Vice President weighed in saying I-1033 appeals to the voters' wish for lower property taxes but the measure is a "huge mistake" that takes advantage of the public's short term needs vs. the long term hurt caused by loss of revenues. Mr. Shahani said it doesn't make a lot of sense to use inflation as a guide when teacher's salary growth is much higher than inflation. Shahani lives in Redmond.
District #4 Director Eglington reminded the Board that I-2261 was passed 9 years ago reforming how revenues are generated and allocated. Revenue would be lost by I-1033. I-1033 can be recalled within two years but it's a "rotten way to legislate". Eglington lives in Sammamish.
District #1 Director and President Pendergrass warned I-1033 appears simplistic at first glance but it's impact on government is far more complex and impactful. Pendergrass lives in Kirkland.
District #3 Director Nancy Bernard (Kirkland) was absent from the meeting.
District #2 Director Carson was upset by the "obscene language" of the Initiative. He said measures are supposed to be boring and sober. The Board chuckled. Carson lives in Kirkland.
The meeting was short, lasting 49 minutes. President Pendergrass said this was a "record" and reminded the viewing public of the Directors' time and attendance at the recent Levy/Bond input meetings. Of the three meetings I attended, no Directors were present.
reported by Bob Yoder
Monday, October 26, 2009
October PTSA Donations & "a little bit more..."
October PTSA Donations to LWSD schools...and a little bit more (scroll below)
Emily Dickinson Elementary PTSA to Dickinson El - $2420.00 - to support 5th & 6th grade community building program @Camp River Ranch
Rachel Carson PTSA to Carson Elementary - $4022.72 - to purchase Accelerated Reader and Star Reading Program, copier supplies.
Samantha Smith PTSA to Smith Elementary - $3470.00 - to purchase Read Naturally Program and student council.
Redmond JH PTSA to Redmond Junior -$3830.87 - to provide academic enrichment mini-grants (supplies and equipment).
H.D. Thoreau PTSA to Thoreau Elementary - $4944.75 - stipends for Honor Choir Program ($1977.90), Outdoor Education ($1977.90), and Chess Program ($899.95).
John Muir PTA to Muir Elementary - $5100.00 - to provide curriculum enrichment ($3500.00) and field trip transportation ($1600.00).
Stella Schola PTO to Stella Schola - $3018.90 - to provide stipends for extracurricular programming work.
Margaret Mead PTSA to Mead Elementary - $3168.90 - to provide stipends.
AND A LITTLE BIT MORE: School Board President Jackie Pendergrass came up with an interesting explanation tonight for their record short, 49 min. Board meeting. Jackie indicated the Board had worked especially long this month attending the Levy/Bond input meetings. Oh? Interesting! I went to half (3) of Levy Input meetings this month and didn't see a single School Board member! Lake Washington High School had one of the largest turnouts (over 20) and not one Board Member attended. Conspicuous absences at Redmond High and Junior High, too. They'll need a better reason, next time....
Longtime Redmond Commissioners Lori and Marty Snodgrass support the re-election of Kim Allen for Council.
Dear Bob,
"Kudos to Council President McCormick for her strong endorsement of Councilmember Allen. We have been observers and sometimes participants in Redmond politics for nearly thirty years. Never has the City faced such a confluence of adverse circumstances as it does today. To steer the City through these hard times requires steady, experienced hands at the wheel of government. Compare these days to the crash of the US Airways flight in the Hudson River: those fortunate souls survived only because they were in the hands of a mature and experienced pilot.
Kim Allen belongs in that category. She has years of experience and a maturity shared by few in government. Hers is a steady hand. She is the type of person we can trust at the wheel. These are not just words. We have known her (Marty worked with her on the Redmond Planning Commission), and observed her sterling performance on the City Council for years. She is the real deal and we are lucky to have her. We certainly commend Ms. Chen for her interest in good government. However, now is not the time and the City Council is not the place for a beginner. When Ms. Chen has put in years learning the ropes and demonstrating her competence, we would then consider her for a position on the Council, but not now and certainly not as a replacement for someone of such demonstrated competence, intelligence and experience as Kim Allen."
Marty & Lori Snodgrass
Redmond, WA
E: help@snodgrasslaw.com
by email on 10/23
photo by Lori Snodgrass
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Editorials & Opinion | The Times recommends Susan Hutchison for King County executive | Seattle Times Newspaper
2009 King County Election voting is "all-mail". Postage-free ballot drop boxes are available.
There will be no polling in King County for the general election. All ballots must be mailed OR may be placed in a few of the 24-hour drop boxes scattered around the county.
For the November 3 general, ballot drop boxes will open on Friday, October 16 and close at 8 p.m. on Election Day, November 3. Postage is NOT required when using the ballot drop boxes.
Locations and availability:
•Library Connection @ Crossroads, 15600 NE 8th St., outside of Suite K-11, 98008
•Earlington Business Center, 919 SW Grady Way, 98057
•Fall City Library, 33415 SE 42 Pl., 98024
•Lake Forest Park Library, 17171 Bothell Way NE, 98155 near the lower level mall entrance
•Seattle, King County Administration Building, 500 Fourth Ave., 98104
•Woodinville Library, 17105 Avondale Rd NE, 98072
•University, 4534 University Way NE, 98105
Complete listing of ballot drop box locations is at "Info Vote 09"
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Help adults learn to read - do basic math - study for GED exams - learn English. Sign-up with HopeLink.
Hopelink in Your Neighborhood Needs Volunteers!
Prospective volunteers can attend a required orientation session at any of Hopelink’s five locations
Hopelink relies upon volunteers for such jobs as sorting food in its food banks; helping adults learn to read, do basic math, study for the GED exams or learn English as a second language; providing child care and homework tutoring to children in our housing facilities; delivering food to homebound clients; or answering phones and helping with administrative tasks. Hopelink’s new Kirkland/Northshore center in the Totem Lake neighborhood is in particular need of volunteers to stock shelves in its grocery store-style food bank.
Hopelink asks new volunteers over age 16 and volunteers between the ages of 12 and 16 with parent/guardian supervision to register to attend a mandatory orientation. To register, please visit www.hope-link.org/takeaction/volunteer or call (425) 869-6066.
· Wednesday, November 4, 2009. Afternoon and evening sessions are available:
o 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at Hopelink’s Bellevue center, 14812 Main St., Bellevue.
o 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at Hopelink’s NEW Kirkland/Northshore center, 11011 120th Avenue NE, Kirkland.
· Tuesday, November 10, 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Hopelink’s Redmond center, Building A, 16225 NE 87th St., Redmond.
Office: 425.869.2440; Cell: 206.605.6843
Email: denises@hope-link.org
posted: BY
Kathy Lambert gives her insight into Dow Constantine and endorses Susan Hutchison
In the King County Executive race primary there were many excellent candidates. I have worked with Fred Jarrett in the legislature and Larry Phillips on the council, and I find them both fine and intelligent men who are a pleasure to work with. But instead Dow Constantine won the second position.
Dow has rarely been helpful on the projects important to this district. Example - He sponsored the CAO – Critical Areas Ordinance – and there were many times I asked him to reconsider and to listen to the citizens at town halls. Often, he left early. Several years later the court found a part of it unconstitutional. Four years later when the update was done to the CAO, Larry Gossett chaired the committee. Larry was wonderful and went out with me to see various issues first hand and talk with citizens who were facing the problems created by the CAO. Larry listened to citizens and worked with me to make the rules better.
Last year the citizens voted to make the council and executive positions nonpartisan. I was eager to see the “system” change and made several proposals on how the council could work in a nonpartisan manner. This plan would rotate each week who met for briefings – so that each member of the council would be with every other member of the council in a caucus at least once a month to share ideas, needs and concerns. Under Dow’s chairmanship it is unfortunately still the same members meeting in Republican or Democrat caucuses that have been changed to Formerly Republican or Formerly Democrat caucuses. That is the only change…..
Last October I wrote a new labor policy. The Seattle Times Editorial Board supported my idea and said it was a “good first step”. Unfortunately, some of my peers thought it was too controversial and would not let it come up for a hearing. The bill says that employees do not automatically get a minimum of 2 % raises in a year of recession. Without this bill, the employees of the county will get an automatic 2% raise unless they are already at the top of their pay scale. We cannot afford those kinds of raises in this economy and when citizens are facing a nearly 10% unemployment rate. So imagine my surprise when Dow said in the televised debate that he supports the labor policy change to reduce the 2%. Where has he been for the last year?
This gives some insights on how our district and county have been treated by an executive candidate and some issues that have not been handled in ways that show good leadership in my opinion.
I have gotten to know Susan Hutchison over the last few years. She is a woman of integrity, a hard worker, a collaborator and one that is willing to look for new and better ways to do things. It would be so refreshing to work with an executive that cares about all the citizens in this county.
Kathy Lambert
Redmond, WA.
by email, 10/24
Friday, October 23, 2009
Editorials | 'Yes' for open space with King County Charter Amendment No. 4 | Seattle Times Newspaper
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Redmond City Council President Nancy McCormick endorses Kim Allen
"I have known Kim Allen since she joined Redmond’s Planning Commission in 2002 and we have served together on the Redmond City Council for the last 4 years. I have watched Kim quickly learn her way around the issues in the areas of transportation, planning, growth management and environmental stewardship and we have gone together to carry Redmond’s needs and concerns to our state legislators, many of whom have endorsed Kim’s reelection—as have I. Kim and I represent Redmond’s interests in transportation as voting members of Eastside Transportation Partnership where we have worked to secure more buses and transit for Redmond. She has promoted Council’s presence in the community and I look forward to working with her as Council lead as we rewrite Redmond’s zoning code. Her background and connections to the Redmond community give her an understanding of our city’s interests and have made her an effective Councilmember for Redmond. That’s why I am supporting her campaign for the chance to serve another 4 years."
Nancy McCormicknmccormi@halcyon.com
by email, 10/22
Kim Allen
Redmond City Councilmember, #4
kim@kimonthecouncil.com
http://www.kimonthecouncil.com/
425-894-8237
The Eastside Symphony and the Concert Opera of Seattle perform at Redmond Performing Arts Center
Eastside Symphony and the Concert Opera of Seattle Presents Tenor: Gino Lucchetti
Hey Bob,Valentina Giovannetti
Eastside Symphony VP
The Eastside Symphony and the Concert Opera of Seattle will combine forces on November 21 in a concert version of Verdi's renowned opera, Rigoletto, conducted by Alexei Girsh. Featured soloists include tenor Gino Lucchetti, soprano Christina Kowalsky, baritone Charles Stephens, and bass Craig Grayson. Rigoletto is one of the most popular operas in the repertoire, known for such famous melodies as "La donna è mobile" and "È il sol dell' anima." Tickets for this special event are available in advance at www.eastsidesymphony.org at $17 general, $12 student/senior. Tickets at the door are $20 general, $15 student/senior.
Concert is November 21 is 8:00 p.m. at the Redmond Performing Arts Center,
Redmond High School, 17272 NE 104th St.
Contact eastsidesymphony@gmail.com
Eastside Synphony - http://www.eastsidesymphony.org
Beautiful, but is it worth $4, 068,000?
)
Redmond's $4 Million Dollar Water Tanks
Come back soon to hear "the rest of the story" about these tanks on NE 104th Street.
The mural paintings were probably paid for by a 1% arts fee on the $4M project. The Arts Department gets to keep 1% of the cost of Public Works projects to install art on site. The bulk of the money was spent on seismic reinforcement, three coats of paint, and retrofitting two other water tanks - one behind this one and a smaller one by Perrigo Springs.
by Bob Yoder, 11/28/09
photo by Bob Yoder
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
The Municipal League of King County opposes Initiative 1033
The Municipal League of King County opposes Initiative 1033.
"Washington State is experiencing a severe recession. State and local governments have instituted drastic budget cuts affecting education, health care, human services, parks, corrections and many other programs that citizens rely on, especially during hard times. Now is the worst possible time to further hamper government’s flexibility to meet public needs and to help with economic recovery.
Previous statewide initiatives have already slowed government spending significantly and elected officials are already very cautious about authorizing tax increases to meet service needs. While it may be a good idea to encourage government to prioritize services and live within its means, this initiative is filled with complex provisions that will make government’s ability to govern much harder and further exacerbate the structural problems of our system of financing public services."
Link to Municipal League of King County I-1033 report, recommendation and website.
http://www.munileague.org/issues/ballot-issues-archive/ballot-issue-reports/nov-2009-i-1033
The Municipal League is a volunteer-driven, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that works toward better government in King County, Washington.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Attn Readers! Post your election endorsements here!
Post your endorsements here! You are invited to email your endorsement to Bob Yoder at redmondblog@gmail.com for posting on this page. (please include your address for verification purposes)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------I have gotten to know Susan Hutchison over the last few years. She is a woman of integrity, a hard worker, a collaborator and one that is willing to look for new and better ways to do things. It would be so refreshing to work with an executive that cares about all the citizens in this county.
Kathy Lambert
Education Hill neighborhood
Redmond, WA.
10/24
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Bob,
"Kudos to Council President McCormick for her strong endorsement of Councilmember Allen. We have been observers and sometimes participants in Redmond politics for nearly thirty years. Never has the City faced such a confluence of adverse circumstances as it does today. To steer the City through these hard times requires steady, experienced hands at the wheel of government. Compare these days to the crash of the US Airways flight in the Hudson River: those fortunate souls survived only because they were in the hands of a mature and experienced pilot.
Kim Allen belongs in that category. She has years of experience and a maturity shared by few in government. Hers is a steady hand. She is the type of person we can trust at the wheel. These are not just words. We have known her (Marty worked with her on the Redmond Planning Commission), and observed her sterling performance on the City Council for years. She is the real deal and we are lucky to have her. We certainly commend Ms. Chen for her interest in good government. However, now is not the time and the City Council is not the place for a beginner. When Ms. Chen has put in years learning the ropes and demonstrating her competence, we would then consider her for a position on the Council, but not now and certainly not as a replacement for someone of such demonstrated competence, intelligence and experience as Kim Allen."
Marty & Lori Snodgrass
Redmond, WA
E: help@snodgrasslaw.com
10/23
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"I have known Kim Allen since she joined Redmond’s Planning Commission in 2002 and we have served together on the Redmond City Council for the last 4 years. I have watched Kim quickly learn her way around the issues in the areas of transportation, planning, growth management and environmental stewardship and we have gone together to carry Redmond’s needs and concerns to our state legislators, many of whom have endorsed Kim’s reelection—as have I.
Kim and I represent Redmond’s interests in transportation as voting members of Eastside Transportation Partnership where we have worked to secure more buses and transit for Redmond. She has promoted Council’s presence in the community and I look forward to working with her as Council lead as we rewrite Redmond’s zoning code. Her background and connections to the Redmond community give her an understanding of our city’s interests and have made her an effective Councilmember for Redmond. That’s why I am supporting her campaign for the chance to serve another 4 years."
Nancy McCormick
nmccormi@halcyon.com
10/22
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Most of you probably skip voting for Hospital District Commissioner like I usually do because you don't know any of them. I have known Charles Pilcher for 25 years, he was my boss for several of those, is a good MD, headed the emergency department at Evergreen for many years, supports health care reform and is a good person. I think he would do a great job for us and Evergreen."
Terry Lavender
10/20
How do LWSD high schools rank with other Districts in University of Washington's admission decision?
Photo is of Redmond High School Principal Jane Todd (speaking), Associate Principal Lloyd Higgins, and Associate Principal Melissa Pointer during an October school board meeting. (According to Ms. Todd, 83% of RHS students go directly into a post-secondary institution upon graduation. Does this surprise you?)
How do LWSD high schools rank in the UW’s admission decision?
In making admission decisions, UW ranks high schools based on how big the drop is between the high school and the UW’s GPAs. Most high school students experience a drop in their GPA going from high school to the University of Washington, the most academically selective public university in the state. Schools with the smallest GPA drop receive the highest rank and are awarded the most points by the UW. 231 Washington State schools were ranked. These students attended the UW in the time period 2000-2004 during the Don Saul Administration. How do LWSD high schools compare to others?How do LWSD high schools rank in the UW’s admission decision?
Private: Bush ranked #1, Lakeside #2, NW Yeshiva (Mercer Is.) #4; University Prep (Sea) #5, Charles Wright Acad. (Tacoma) # 6; Overlake #10; Eastside Catholic #48; Bear Creek #100; Bellevue Christian #114
The Islands: Bainbridge Island HS #8, Vashon Island HS #9, Mercer Island HS #14.
Bellevue School District: Bellevue International #7; Newport HS #28; Bellevue HS; Interlake HS # 47; Forest Ridge #51Issaquah School District: Issaquah HS #15; Skyline HS #25
LWSD: International Community (Kirkland) #3; Redmond HS #13; Eastlake HS #63; Juanita HS #82; Lake Washington HS #103.
North Shore School District: Woodinville HS # 71; Bothell #76; Inglemoor HS # 80.
Seattle School District (Tier 1): Blanchet #18; Shorewood #36; Ballard #61; Roosevelt #77; Shorecrest #79, O'Dea #110.
It's looking like LWSD is living up to our local real estate agents' persistent claims of "desirability", though lots of other good schools are out there. Tacoma, Kent, Lynwood, and Montlake Terrace are ones to keep away from. Yakima's district schools (4) all do well with one ranked #19.
The above data represents "end results" of high school performance for the retired Don Saul Administration. Chip Kimball was hired as LWSD Superintendent about two years ago.
On 9/28, the LWSD School Board reviewed Superintendent Chip Kimball's "end results" for the first two years of his Administration. The relevant available data was from 3-year cohort K-2. It appears the end results for students were: 71-85% at standard for writing. 76-85% at standard for literature and drama. K-2 students were 23% at standard for speaking a second language at home. (Spanish is the 2nd largest and Chinese the 3rd largest second language at home).Source: - to find the rankings, click "source" to find the web site page. look on the left side bar under "high school ratings"
text and photo by Bob Yoder
Major Ballot Mistake on I-1033 by King County Elections.
Thanks, Hank for bringing this huge snafu to our attention. Unfortunately, I've already voted and I MISSED IT. But, I'll tell my wife. Thank you, Hank!
Bob
LETTER from Hank Margeson, 10/20
Friends,
A big mistake by the King County Elections office is causing huge numbers of King County voters to overlook I-1033 on their ballots. I-1033 is Tim Eyman's latest effort to slash funding for schools, health care, and other public services.
Friends,
A big mistake by the King County Elections office is causing huge numbers of King County voters to overlook I-1033 on their ballots. I-1033 is Tim Eyman's latest effort to slash funding for schools, health care, and other public services.
Make sure you don't miss it! I-1033 is on the bottom, left-hand corner of the first page, underneath the instructions, where it's very easy to overlook. See the graphic below.
The key to beating I-1033 is a big no vote in King County and Seattle -- where voters are strongly opposed. But thousands of King County voters are overlooking I-1033 on their ballots, even when they want to vote No.
Please forward this message to your friends and family members! This election is going to be incredibly close. We can't afford to have any No voters overlooking I-1033 on the ballot. We appreciate your help getting the word out about this confusion.
Thanks for your help,
Hank Margeson, Education Hill Dayle “Hank” Margeson for Redmond City Council 2007
Hank@FriendsofHank.com
http://www.friendsofhank.com/
- sample ballot submitted by Hank Margeson
Monday, October 19, 2009
Reforesting the Sammamish Slough
Ling Niu is a Redmond software engineer from China - with daughter
In a torrential downpour on Saturday morning, twelve of us gathered under a tent set up along the path that parallels the slough, just south of the Leary Way Bridge. Our group was composed of Redmond residents and crew members of local nonprofit Earth Corps.
We were there to replant tree and shrub seedlings in the open area by the slough. The idea is to create a “mini wilderness” to the maximum extent possible, so as to improve and preserve the salmon and wildlife habitat. City of Redmond environment officer Peter Holte instructed us in how to dig holes in the dirt and then remove seedlings from their pots and plant them properly. The seedlings had previously been set out in their desired locations, so we just had to find them and set to work.As the morning progressed, the rain subsided considerably, and more residents showed up to help. The newcomers were instructed and assisted by the Earth Corps crew members. These young folks were made up of Americorps Volunteers and a young woman and man from Morocco and Cambodia. (Go to http://www.earthcorps.org/ to learn more about their environmental restoration work.)
The reforestation effort has been going on for several years. Nearby were 10 foot high trees that had been planted three years ago on the bank of the slough. Jane, who was there with her daughter, said she had helped plant them back then. Funds for this work come out of the stormwater runoff control fees paid annually by Redmond homeowners.
By the time 12 noon rolled around, Peter estimated that we had planted 200 to 300 seedlings. Despite being wet and muddy, we all felt pleased and proud of our work!
photos and story
by John Reinke
Redmond resident
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Administration requests $226,220 to track groundwater recharge and potential influx of contaminants.
The Administration is requesting $226,220 for groundwater monitoring engineering services at their 10/20/09 City Council Meeting.
UPDATED 10/21, City Council approved the funding for this project. We (Administration) propose installing twelve additional groundwater monitoring wells and three "high pressure water monitors" at selected sites for use in conjunction with surveying and monitoring. The proposed monitoring facilities are designed to track the recharge of groundwater and the potential influx of contaminants into the Redmond alluvial aquifer. We propose contracting for professional engineering services in an amount of $226,220 for the Groundwater Monitoring Network Project.
The objective is to obtain additional monitoring data that will lead to a better understanding of movement of groundwater and contaminants within the Critical Aquifer Recharge Area (CARA) and understand the primary mechanisms by which groundwater in the City’s alluvial aquifer is recharged. Three principal recharge processes are recognized, as follows:
Direct infiltration of surface water flows into Bear Creek, Evans Creek, Sammamish River.
Stormwater infiltration from retention ponds, vaults, storm drains and other infiltration facilities throughout the City; and infiltration through previous surfaces (dirt, sand, beddings, grass, etc.)
Upland runoff that percolates into the margins of the alluvial aquifer at the valley floor.
Documents and Maps of the critical recharge areas, proposed groundwater monitoring wells and pressure monitors and streams : http://redmond.gov/insidecityhall/citycouncil/20091020pdfs/AM09225.pdf
BACKGROUND
The City of Redmond operates five shallow groundwater supply wells that deliver between 3.5 and 5 million gallons of water per day, supplying approximately 40 percent of Redmond’s drinking water. These five wells, which draw from the shallow alluvial aquifer, are located in the heart of Redmond’s downtown and industrial areas, and are highly susceptible to contamination due to the local geology and proximity to potential pollution sources. In October 2003, the City Council adopted a wellhead protection ordinance to meet federal, state, and regional requirements for the protection of the Critical Aquifer Recharge Area (CARA) and the City’s drinking water supply. An important requirement of the ordinance is the establishment of a city-wide groundwater monitoring program to detect the presence of contaminants and declines in water levels before they impact a water supply well.
Hazardous Materials Questionnaire and Aquifer Map.
Source: Redmond City Council Consent Agenda, 10/20/09
posted by Bob Yoder
Vote YES on King County Charter "Open Space Amendment" #4
Letter from the Water TendersWe have endorsed King County Charter Amendment 4, on your November ballot. The Open Space Amendment (OSA) will provide enhanced protection for approximately 156,000 acres of natural open space owned by King County. (photo of Cougar Mountain)
Through a new section in the county charter, the Open Space Amendment (#4) strengthens protection of certain high conservation value properties by requiring a 28-day public comment period, a finding of facts, and a supermajority vote (7 of 9) of the County Council before the property could be sold or transferred. This public process will help to safeguard our most cherished green spaces for future generations.
These properties are among our most treasured conservation and recreation spaces. County lands to receive additional protection include all the Bear Creek Waterways properties in Unincorporated King County (Cold Creek Natural Area, the Upper Bear Creek Conservation Area, Evans Creek Natural Area and many more) Squak Mountain/Tiger Mountain Corridor, Cedar River Waterways, Cougar Mountain, the Upper Raging River Forest, and the Snoqualmie Forest.
The properties protected by the Open Space Amendment are already owned or held in a conservation easement by King County – the amendment involves no new land purchases or direct costs.
The Open Space Amendment is unanimously supported by the County Council, Executive, Municipal League, many environmental groups, and community leaders. You can see a full list of endorsements and learn more about he Open Space Amendment at http://www.openspaceamendment.org/.
We urge you to vote Yes on King County Charter Open Space Amendment #4.
The Water Tenders
submitted by Terry Lavender
9/4
Friday, October 16, 2009
Artist Christopher Janney's "Sonic Forest" will connect and inspire the public at Redmond Town Center
"The Sonic Forest" is coming to Redmond Town Center
Mr. Janey is an architect and jazz musician, world renowned for his "sound and light" art installations found in public spaces throughout the nation. Read my report and opinion on Janey's May 15 interview with the Redmond Arts Commission and learn more about his installation art!
Paraphrasing Arts Commission Chair John Stilin: 'Art connects people. The purpose of Art in Redmond is to build community. Art brings people together. It's what gets people talking together.'
Last week the Arts Commission pounded out their new Vision Statement: "The community is connected and inspired by arts and culture". Will you connect and be inspired in the Sonic Forest December 4 -12?
Michelle Vallene, our longtime PEPS group friend, educator and mother of three announces a New York City media blitz of her new book!
Hi Bob,
As you know, I was accepted to attend the National Publicity Summit in New York City this next week to promote my new book. I am leaving on Saturday and won’t be back until the following weekend. In New York, I will be meeting with producers from TV shows like Good Morning America, The Today Show, etc. and magazine and newspaper editors and radio show producers. It is like speed dating with the media. I have been working with a media coach and taking on-line classes for the last couple of months to prepare my story/show pitches for the media.
I am excited, but very nervous about going! By the way, we have extended the pre-order date to October 30th so people can still pre-order my book at our current website.
Pre-order book here: http://www.chateau-education.com/book.html
Thanks for your support!
Michelle
Bob's note: Wow, Michelle! Congratulations! Thanks for sharing your book and this "breaking news" with me! I look forward to your feature story in the local reporter. Good luck on your tour! I will try to find the AMAZON.com link to add to my site so readers can order your book! When you come home next week from New York and have some time, I want some coffee time with you at Tulleys!
-Edited by Bob Yoder
Photo by Dave Randall
Thursday, October 15, 2009
The King County Elections ballots are in the mail! "Let the games begin"!
Council President Nancy McCormick is retiring after 6 terms of dedicated service to the City of Redmond.
Redmond Council Vice President Pat Vache' and Arts Commissioner John Stilin are both running unopposed.
Councilmember Kimberly Allen is running for re-election (Seat #4) against upstart Sally J. Chen.
Chuck Pilcher is running for commissioner of Evergreen County Hospital District #2 against Rex Lindquist. Dr. Pilcher is endorsed by every hospital district commissioner except Lindquist. Redmond Fire and Medics endorse Pilcher.
King County Charter Amendments One, Two, and Three are mostly housekeeping. Charter Amendment Four is significant and deserves study. The Municipal League of Woman Voters recommends "yes" on all four.
LWSD Directors Nancy Bernard ("Kirkland" area District 3) and Doug Eglington ("Sammamish Plateau" District 4) are again running unopposed. Julie Wright has withdrawn from the race, according to LWSD.
King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert is running unopposed.
The Big Race is for King County Excecutive. "Outsider" Susan Hutchinson is running against King County Councilmember Dow Constantine. Do you care who just got the Seattle Times endorsement?
All local candidate websites and charter amendments are posted on this sidebar.text and photo by Bob Yoder
For these and all other Eastside races, the link to the King County Candidate website is: http://www.kingcounty.gov/elections/elections/200911/contestscandidates.aspx
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Rafa's story of overcoming gangs and bullets with help from Youth Eastside Services
Eighteen year old Rafa was born in Pakistan and lived there until he was in fourth grade. He is now a senior at an Eastside high school and his outgoing presence, personal creativity and generosity of spirit make him the perfect driving force behind the poetry/rap slams he helps organize.
But like many children with immigrant parents, Rafa is the liaison between his parents and the culture and language of the U.S. "By the time I got to high school I didn't know where I belonged," says Rafa. "I'm more American than my parents, but I don't fit easily into the white, Latino or black cliques and cultures at school."
As a freshman and sophomore, Rafa often feared for his safety at school. Racial slurs became shoving matches which escalated into physical threats and violence. "I decided to join a gang after I was shot at while walking home alone from school one night."
But Rafa knew he needed help and he found it from a Youth Eastside Services (YES) school-based counselor. His counselor helped him disassociate from his gang and introduced him to the Newcomer Program at YES. With the help of YES, he learned to cope with his feelings of isolation, embrace his dual cultures and find safety outside of a gang affiliation.
Rafa's story is just one of thousands of stories of youth who come to YES and - thanks to a giving community - find the help they need to meet and overcome the challenges they face.
Best Wishes,
Patti Skelton-McGougan
Executive Director
http://www.youtheastsideservices.org/
stock photo
Neighbor asks: HAVE YOU SEEN HER? Redmond High sophomore Jamie Stevens is missing.
JAMIE HAS BEEN FOUND AND SHE IS BACK HOME. 11/01
Bob, I'm passing this along to Redmond friends. 15-year old Jamie attends our church and Redmond High School and has been missing for 3 weeks. It would be great of you to pass this along.
by Steve Hitch
HAVE YOU SEEN HER? A 15-year-old Redmond High School sophomore ran away from home Sept. 21 and her mother is now fearing the worst. Jamie Stevens stormed out her parents' home in unincorporated King County near the Woodinville-Redmond border three weeks ago and has not returned, according to Jamie's mother, Judy.
"She left angry and frustrated and walked off with nothing but the clothes on her back, she has nothing, no money, no ID, nothing," Judy said. "It's really a big mystery."
Judy and her husband, Jim, contacted all of Jamie's friends and nobody had seen her the day she ran away. They went around the neighborhood, the high school and her favorite hangouts, hoping to find some clues that would lead to the whereabouts of their daughter.
Judy said she finally got an e-mail from her daughter the night of Sept. 29, telling her mother that she planned to come home soon and that she just needed some time to "cool off."
But since then, "nobody has heard anything," Judy said. "She has not been on Facebook or MySpace, she's not responding to e-mails, so I know something is happening. She has stopped communicating with us and that's our biggest concern."
Judy and Jim are working with an investigator from the King County Sheriff's Office, trying to find their runaway daughter, who got into a verbal altercation with her father before running away.
"We've done lots of follow-up work in this one but haven't tracked her down yet," said Sgt. John Urquhart, spokesperson for the Sheriff's Office.
Judy said they have turned up some leads as to who she is with, and "it's not good. They are people we don't know and they seem to be caught up in bad things."
Judy said Jamie "was frustrated and stressed out" with her home life, but Judy never expected her to run away and not come back. Jamie is a talented artist and was a strong student in the classroom, according to Judy. Jamie told her parents that she planned to compete for the Redmond High track and field team in the spring, Judy said.
"It's very hard," said Judy, who is also working with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. "She's talented, she's smart and she's really engaging. I know wherever she is, it's bad. I just don't know how bad it is."
Jamie has dark hair and is diminutive in stature, around 5-foot-2, 105 pounds, according to her mother. If you have seen Jamie, call Judy at (425) 260-7054 or (425) 895-8566 or call Jim at (206) 491-6858.
Submitted by Steve Hitch
Redmond, WA.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
The Mayor Crowns Kaily Trussel Homecoming Queen at Redmond High.
Mayor John Marchione crowns Kaily Trussel
...and brings a few of his firemen to the game to celebrate "Fire Prevention Week"
photos by Bob Yoder
Evergreen Hospital Medical Center is Ranked No. 1 in State for Stroke Care
KIRKLAND, WA. − Evergreen Hospital Medical Center was ranked first in Washington and in the top five percent of hospitals in the nation for treatment of stroke by HealthGrades, the country’s leading healthcare rating system. Evergreen also was ranked in the top five for gastrointestinal services. For the sixth consecutive year, Evergreen received five-star rating for maternity care. The rankings for 2010 were released by HealthGrades today. In addition, the hospital was named one of the Top 10 in Washington for general surgery, overall critical care and overall pulmonary services.
HealthGrades studies nearly 5,000 hospitals each year, reviewing more than 40 million hospitalization records before it awards the ratings. Complete information is available at www.healthgrades.com. More information about Evergreen Hospital Medical Center and Evergreen Healthcare can be found at www.evergreenhealthcare.org.
Contact: Sherry Grindeland, Evergreen Communications Director, 425-899-1882
October 13, 2009
Matt Campbell launches "Sportspixs.com" photo sharing service for Greater Redmond community.
My name is Matt Campbell. In 1971 my family moved to Redmond from Seattle. I have been a citizen of Redmond since I was five years old. Thanks for getting involved and doing this blog to make Redmond a better place to live.
I have a hobby website, that posts sports pictures I take of Redmond High School, Redmond Junior High and other events. My wife is the RHS Cheer coach. Lately, I've posted pictures of Mustang Football, Wrestling, and Cheer. At the request of the local Reporter, I've worked with them to photgraph the Girls Soccer team. I'm going to try to get around to the community and support other groups, like girls and boys lacrosse.
I recently took a few photos of the kids in the park. These kids do amazing things on bikes and boards and get little recognition for their sport. Look for a folder called "Skate Park"!
My site is becoming a place where people can go to see their pictures, share them and in some cases download them. Some pictures, but not all, can be freely downloaded. However, they may all be viewed and enjoyed. I'm an IT guy for a manufacturing company in Woodinville and this is a total side job that helps support my passion for photography,
I'd like to share the site with you and your Readers. Please feel free to use some of my pictures for community Blog stories, at no charge to the Redmond Neighborhood Blog. All I ask is you please reference my name and website with the pictures you post.
by Matt Campbell
photo & text by Campbell
edited by Yoder
photo & text by Campbell
October Donations to Lake Washington School District
October Donations to LWSD
Lake Washington Schools Foundation gives $1,496.24 to John Muir Elementary School to purchase assessement materials for the library.
Mark Twain PTSA gives $4535.00 to Twain Elecmentary to provide tutoring stipend ($1735) and support fireld trips ($2,800).
Monday, October 12, 2009
Fire Drill at the Evergreen Hospital County District Commission Meeting!
The Hospital District holds study sessions in their Chambers without video taping them. The Redmond Council holds their study sessions in Chambers, with LIVE TV, video and audio taping and recorded Minutes. The LW School Board holds their work sessions in a back room and this Fall, started taking Minutes. In summation, city council study session governance is the most visible, followed by the hospital district and then school district.
This being my first meeting, I hesitate reporting too much owing to distractions.
- Of interest, Mr. Davis, a hospital construction manager, reported 45 construction projects planned or underway. Evergreen Hospital Medical Center appears it's own little city!
- Dr. Weinberg asked for Board Action (on October 20) to: close the hospital oncology department and contract with Cascade Cancer Center for comprehensive medical oncology services. My neighbor is a pediatric nurse for the highly regarded Dr. Weinberg and I used to call on him for ADHD sales.
- Lake Washington Voc. Tech is expanding allied health, giving the hospital an opportunity for improved visibility there and additional space (400sf) in two years.
- The hospital performance audit will be brought to the public during a November Public Hearing.
Board meetings are held on the first and third Tuesday of the month at 6:30pm in the TAN Building #250. The public has up to 10 minutes, per speaker, to address the Board on 3rd Tuesdays. Hospital chambers are less intimidating than the towering city hall chambers. School board chambers are the least intimidating. Regardless, will you turn out at meeting and share your thoughts and opinions? Or make a comment below the Blog posts? Or, send in a story to share at the Blog? Go for it!
Everyone was friendly. Shirley Grindland, Communications put me under her wing. Steve Brown, CEO and Commissioner Auggie Kemph said hi. Auggie represents Redmond and Sammamish tax payers. His email is: auggie@kempfco.com. Auggie is Chairman of a financial planning, insurance and financial advising company. He is past President of the Redmond Chamber of Commerce. (photo on right). by Bob Yoder
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Chief Seattle Council celebrates 100th Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America
Tell Us How the Boy Scouts Can Help You!
OUR GOAL IS TO DO 100 PROJECTS TO CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF SERVICE!
Dear Greater Redmond/Eastside Community -
“To celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America, the Chief Seattle Council invites YOU to nominate community service projects. The Boy Scouts have long been known for their service to others and we look forward to living up to our oath of helping others at all times. Please submit your request at our website: https://viecommunication.wufoo.com/forms/tell-us-how-the-boy-scouts-can-help-you/”
Thanks as always for supporting scouting.
by Paige Norman
Education Hill
SAMMAMISH TRAILS DISTRICT OF B.S.A. ANNOUNCE NEWEST EAGLE SCOUTS
The Sammamish Trails District of Boy Scouts of America is proud to announce our newest Eagle Scouts. To earn the Eagle rank, a scout must complete a minimum of 21 merit badges demonstrating community service, leadership, and scouting values. Please join us in congratulating the following scouts in their remarkable achievement in earning the Eagle Scout rank.
Spencer Wade Calvert, LDS Redmond Crew 611
Aaron Lewis, Good Kirkland Troop 577
Jonathan Paul Haas, Redmond Troop 423
Jory Leh-shun Hamilton, Kirkland Troop 565
Kyle David Koons, LDS Carnation Crew 533
Sean Michael Myers, Redmond Troop 550
Henry Piaskowski,Redmond Troop 423
Joseph Harley White, LDS Carnation Crew 533
by Paige Norman
425 882 2177
Paige.norman@verizon.net
Sammamish Trails District, BSA
District website: http://members.doubleknot.com/Sammamish_Trails_District/
Saturday, October 10, 2009
LWYSA is looking for Community Service volunteers to plant thousands of trees on 60 Acres South site.
New Fields at 60 Acres South Under Construction
Final Permitting Approved and Work BeginsWe are well under way with the construction of nine new fields on 60 Acres South! Most of the heavy excavation will be completed in the next several days. Currently the contractor is completing the utility connections, and will reopen the trail access in a few days.
We will be planting grass seed on roughly half the site early in the week, as well as starting the planting of the shrubs and trees that will stabilize the site and will ultimately result in a facility we can be proud of.
In the next few months, we will send out a call for volunteers, as we have thousands of plants that need to be planted. This is a great opportunity to fulfill Community Service hours, as well as be a part of the creation of what will be the largest and best soccer facility west of the Mississippi!
We are on track to open the new fields late Spring, and we will be hosting a couple of new events, such as US Club Regionals and ECNL National Finals next summer using the new fields.
by Curt Bateman, Director of Operations
LWYSA Newsletter, 09/2009
photos by Bob Yoder
LWYSA web site
REGISISTER NOW! - CROSSFIRE PREMIER WINTER YOUTH ACADEMIES 2010 !
Friday, October 9, 2009
Do yourself a favor! Sign up to be a school "Lunch Buddy" mentor!
This is a short clip of Dallas riding his bike on the BMX dirt bike jumps. Dallas was my Lunch Buddy for four years at MANN. It's LOTS of fun and rewarding to be a Lunch Buddy! I highly recommend it! BY
LINKS (Looking Into the Needs of Kids and Schools) is recruiting community volunteers to be "Lunch Buddies.".
With the school year well underway, the need for LINKS Lunch Buddies in the Lake Washington School District is growing. We have seen an increase in the need for male lunch buddies and many students, male and female, are on a wait list in the Sammamish, Redmond and Kirkland communities.
The Lunch Buddy Program is a way for caring adults to help local elementary students succeed. Volunteers mentor students by meeting with them once a week and by acting as a positive role model. Lunch Buddies eat lunch together, play games, share talents or just talk. It's an opportunity to make a life long impact on a child.
Mentored students are more likely to do better in school, say NO to drugs and say YES to college! Please help us make a difference.
To become a LINKS Volunteer, contact Nanci Wehr at links@lwsd.org or 425-702-3410.
by Nancy Wehr, parent, Education Hill
clip by Bob Yoder
LWSD admits to longer bus rides for some, saying teacher's jobs are saved.
LETTER by Kathryn Reich, LWSD Director of Communications
In cutting bus stops by one third, the district acknowledged that one of the byproducts would be the inconvenience of longer rides for some students. Overall, the district will indeed save hundreds of thousands of dollars, which is saving teacher jobs. The change in route that Ms. Wilkins describes does lengthen the bus ride and is more inconvenient. But the situation she describes is not the entire story.
All Redmond Junior High routes were changed to reduce the number of routes by one. So the primary savings for these routes is from eliminating one bus route entirely. Redoing a set of routes means that some students, like Ms. Wilkins’, who were the last picked up in last year’s route become the second picked up in this year’s.
One of the main issues is that by law, for safety reasons, the school bus must pick up students on Avondale on the bus door side. If students on Avondale were picked up first as suggested, no matter which route the bus took from the bus barn, it would have to turn around and double back on Avondale at some point. The total length of the bus route would be longer, costing more money. Any other reconfiguration of the bus routes that moves the Avondale stop to another route also results in longer routes, costing more money.
The requirement to pick up and drop off students on the door side on Avondale works to Ms. Wilkins’ student’s advantage in the afternoon. The routing used to make sure that happens results in the students at her stop being dropped off first in the afternoon, an average ride time of five to eight minutes.
Ms. Wilkin’s assertions about the time the bus arrives at the stop and at school are not borne out by the Zonar GPS system on the bus. According to that system’s report, which Ms. Wilkins or anyone else is welcome to see, the bus pick-up time at her stop in the morning is between 7:11 and 7:13 and arrival at the school is between 7:30 and 7:31. The average ride time is 18 minutes from her stop.
Finally, making any changes now will not affect the district’s funding from the state for transportation. The district’s ride count week has already occurred. The district’s numbers do show a drop of about 11 students from 23 to 12 at the stop Ms. Wilkins is writing about. There was no significant drop at any other stop on this route.
This change in bus routes is indeed inconvenient but the district will save money, nonetheless.
Sincerely,
Kathryn Reith
Communications Director, Lake Washington School District
10/9/09
Thursday, October 8, 2009
"Extra! Extra! Read all about it!" (and don't forget to tune in & scroll).
I have decided it's time to 'put my pen' down an hour a day to drum up some more business for the Blog. So, early yesterday morning, I hawked my business card at the downtown Redmond Park and Ride. "Extra Extra - Read all about it!" It was fun to get back into my old profession of selling again! The response from commuters was so positive, I will be handing out my card at public places more often. "Extra! Extra! "Returning home from the Park & Ride, it dawned on me, not one commuter was reading a newspaper or even carrying one! And, not one commuter put a quarter in the newspaper dispenser or even picked up the local freebie. Most travelers were zoning out on their I-Pods or scrolling PDA's.
I have fond memories of my Dad years ago, when he taught me how to fold a newspaper in a New York subway train, so I could open and read it without bothering the commuter next to me. How the times have changed....by Bob Yoder
LWSD is not saving money by cutting bus stops and combining routes on Education Hill
Contributed by Susan Wilkins
Lake Washington School District needs to act quickly and restore timely and efficient bus service to east Education Hill. They should look at other bus routes whose stops have been reduced “for efficiency” and make sure that those routes aren’t being abandoned by students and parents in favor of driving. (Hint: Eastlake High School bus routes are too early to be usable.) The district has a new automated phone dialing system that can quickly call parents to inform them about important updates – like new bus routes. I hope to hear from them.
The really bad news is that the Lake Washington School District will not be receiving very much money from the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction since bus transportation reimbursement is based on the number of students who ride the bus each morning. During the month of October, all bus drivers in the state will count the number of students on their buses each morning for 5 consecutive days and the annual compensation that the district receives will be determined by the counts multiplied by the distance that each student lives from the school. This year, nearly 40 seats will be empty and the Lake Washington School District will receive no compensation from the state for the empty seats. What a waste. And the new route was supposed to save money.
Last year, Redmond Junior High students living in our neighborhood on the east side of Education Hill used to ride the LWSD school bus every morning. The bus traveled through the neighborhood picking up students along the way, drove them up the hill and dropped them at RJH. Students got on the bus at about 7:30 am and were at school a short time later.
This year the district announced that it would cut the number of bus stops and combine routes to help save money. But instead of picking up students from our neighborhood and quickly dropping them at school, the bus now arrives at 7:05 AM and then drives down to Avondale in slow, stop-and-go traffic to pick up 10 students who live near downtown Redmond. The bus then travels back up the hill along 166th Avenue NE and arrives at RJH at 7:40 AM. Total travel distance: 5 miles.
Parents contacted LWSD Transportation and asked them to reroute the bus so that the Avondale students were picked up first or put on a different bus. The transportation department declined our request stating, “…the route is scheduled the way it needs to run to keep mileage, fuel, wear and tear and time to a minimum.” adding “…it is your choice to have your students ride or not.”
Not only is 7 AM too early to get on the bus, it makes no sense to have students on a bus for more than half an hour when RJH is only 5 minutes away by car. The bus has room for 72 students and last year almost every seat was filled. This year, only 20 - 25 students ride from east Education Hill. Combined with the 10 Avondale students, at best, the bus is only half full.
by Susan Wilkins, parent and school volunteer on Education Hill
edited by Yoder
cc: LWSD Directors Eglington, Bernard, & Shahni
cc: Forest Miller, Director of LWSD Facilities/Transporation
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Slough Safari: Wildlife you never expected to see in Redmond
Over the past 4 or 5 years, I have made it a practice to walk along the Sammamish Slough several times a week. I usually start out at the Redmond Senior Center. From there I either head north to the rust colored foot bridge where 105th Street would be (if it existed), or I head south and go to the point where Leary Way crosses the slough. Either leg is about a mile in length, so the total distance is about 2 miles. (click photos to enlarge)
During that time, I have seen quite a variety of birds and animals in or near the slough, including some I never expected.. Some of them may surprise you, too. (Naturally, I have seen a fair number of salmon, too.) I carry a small spiral notebook in which I record my observations, noting species, location and time of day. Sometimes I carry a point-and-shoot digital camera also. As I am generally a late riser, almost all of my observations have been recorded between 10am and dusk.
Below is an annotated list of animals I have seen, followed by a list of birds. (If you'd like to add your observations to the list, please leave a comment!)
Animals seen along the slough (photo of beaver-gnawed tree)
beaver Mostly seen in retention pond at NE corner of intersection where NE 90th Street crosses sloughdeer At dusk by woodcarver Dudley Carter’s cabin near Leary Way. Very handsome antlered buck.
river otter I have seen a pair of otters 3 or 4 times in the slough. They are very playful said she saw a mother with 4 kits near the Luke McRedmond.
bats Seen feeding on insects at dusk over the slough
coyote This nervy fellow was nonchalantly loping across the lawn close to the west side of City Hall
mink Seen poking around in the grass and logs by the retention pond, quite oblivious to my presence 15 or 20 feet away. I think it was young.
muskrat Rarely seen in the slough. -rabbit - turtle Common.
Birds and Waterfowl (photo of ring-necked ducks)
American widgeon Typically seen in flocks of males and femalesCanada geese Common year round -Oregon junco
bufflehead seen in retention pond at NE corner of intersection where NE 90th Street crosses slough.
cedar waxwing Seen in flocks -chipping sparrow
cormorants Seen in flocks that roost in trees along the slough in winter.
eagle Solitary eagles seen infrequently
gadwall Not common; seen in pairs Common Goldeneye, Not too common
grebe, pied-billed Seen frequently -grebe, western A single pair seen once
heron, great blue A solitary bird seen frequently; more than one spotted along the slough on same day
heron, green-backed Seen once in retention pond; have photo
killdeer - kingfisher Seen a few times
mallards Very common -merganser, common - merganser, hooded Fairly common
osprey Seen rarely -pheasant Male pheasant seen only once
ring-necked duck, scaup - greater scaup, lesser - Not common; seen in retention pond
wood duck Single pair seen once; have photo
text and photos by John Reinke, Education Hill
Animal/bird list edited by Yoder
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Plan to attend levy/bond input sessions starting Oct. 7. LWSD Taxes expected to rise $130 per house.
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Help shape the future of our schools by giving input on what should be part of the school levy and bond measures on the ballot next February. Options include raising money for facilities and technology capital projects, possible bond measure for new schools and school grade configuration change. Parents, community members, staff and students are encouraged to attend.
Oct. 7 – 3:00-4:30 p.m., Redmond Junior High
Oct. 7 – 7:00-8:30 p.m., Eastlake High School
Oct. 8 – 7:00-8:30 p.m., Redmond High School
Oct. 13 – 3:00-4:30 p.m., Kamiakin Jr. High
Oct. 13 -- 7:00-8:30 p.m., Juanita High School
Oct. 14 – 7:00-8:30 p.m., Lake Washington High School
If you can’t make one of these sessions, go to www.lwsd.org starting October 7 for more information and to provide input via a Web-based system.
For more information contact:
Kathryn Reith, Director of Communications, (425) 702-3342
Shannon Parthemer, Community Relations & Communications Coordinator, (425) 702-3300
According to the LWSD Director of Communications LWSD taxes are expected (or anticipated) to go up $130 in 2010 on the average house (assessed at $505,000.)
by Bob Yoder
Monday, October 5, 2009
UPDATE, 10/16, A comparison of the City of Redmond & Lake Washington School District governments.
Photo of a "Work Session" when the School Board discusses items requireing action. A hot buffet is provided. Accept for the Deputy Superintendent, Director staff rarely speak or present. Staff is seated on the right.
CITY OF REDMOND
In Redmond, seven (7) paid councilmembers are elected to a "position" and represent the people at large. They divide their "work" responsibilities into Committees, each with a different Committee Chair and two other councilmembers. The Committees are: Finance, Parks and Human Services, Planning and Public Works, Public Safety, and Regional. It's best to address the Committee Chairs on their work. Councilmembers are paid ~ $90/meeting for five meetings/month.
LWSD
Updated, 10/16: Five (5) unpaid school board directors are each elected to a "voting district" in witch they live and are assigned a list of schools to represent. All LWSD high schools and junior highs are assigned 2-4 directors. Evergreen Junior and Eastside High is the exception, with Mr. Eglington solely assigned. Most elementary schools are assigned only one Director. The exceptions are Audubon, Bell, Rush and *Twain which have two Directors. It is assumed constituents would seek advocacy representation from the Director responsible for their school. The directors have decided not to accept the minimum $50/meeting pay to which they are entitled.
As an example, we have a daughter residing in Director Ravi Shahani's District No. 5. Director Ravi Shahani is the sole representative assigned to Horace Mann Elementary. No other Director is assigned to Mann. However, Dirctor Shahani shares his representation and assignment with Directors Doug Eglington and Nancy Bernard for both Redmond Junior and Redmond High.
In addition, Director Shahani has the exclusive assignment of *Einstein, *Redmond El, Rockwell, Rosa Parks and Wilder elementary schools in his voting district. Thus, constituents are best to go to Director Shahadi for representation, advocacy (and "voice") at these schools. Currently, Redmond El and Einstein are under Title 1 federal review for substandard "average yearly performance" in three categories. Director Ravi is the Board Member most familiar with these two schools: Director Ravi Shahani's contact information is: rshahani@lwsd.org or 425-702-3257.
Our five school board directors are responsible collectively for all 51 LWSD schools. In addition, each Director was elected to represent or advocate for the stakeholders the specific cluster of schools in his/her district. There is a fine distinction between being responsible and being representative. Staff tends to muddy this distinction I think this is wrong. I think we should hold our representatives accountable for the specific schools assigned to the voting district they reside in. (According to policy, "Boards are ultimately responsible for governance and managing daily activities.") Since elementary schools have usually one assigned representative, Directors should be especially attentive to their needs. Any comments on this you'd like to share?
Update: 10/16. of note, the seating configuration in Chambers puts Superintendent Kimpball front and center on the Diaz as "the King and his Court". The superintendent dominates the conversation in both Work Sessions and Regular Meetings. Director input is minimal. Conversely the Chamber seating configuration for the Hospital district and City of Redmond places the CEO at the end of the Diaz allowing speakers to address their elected officials directly. The President runs the show with the elected in the spotlight. The hospital and city CEO (Mayor) talk much less, usually defering to the administrative Directors and staff. I've observed and scrutinized the City of Redmond government process for over three years. Conversely, this year I've attended five LWSD school board meetings, watched another meeting LIVE on their website, attended 3 levy bond input sessions, addressed the Board once in person and in writing and will meet with the Superintendent tomorrow.
text and photos by Bob Yoder
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Our aging city website and search engine - Is Redmond government being responsible?
In times of emergencies people go to search engines for fast answers. Have you tried searching the City of Redmond Search Engine? Good luck. The first hurdle is finding it. Look for the little box in the upper right corner of http://www.redmond.gov/ .
With winter storms approaching, search topics like community radio 1650 and tree removal permits are relevant and important to Redmond citizens. I searched the City Search Engine and for both topics with poor results, as follows:
NEW SEARCH: Redmond Community Radio 1650The above "Redmond Community Radio 1650" search result and link finds nothing about the radio. The "Tree Removal Permit" search result is meaningless. The link is helpful, but the engine provides no reason to click on it.
Link to Document Found
http://www.redmond.gov/insidecityhall/police/publicinformation/advisoryboard.asp
SEARCH RESULT: Redmond Police. 2009 Community Police Advisory Board. Community Policing Advisory Board The Redmond Police Community Policing Advisory Board is a volunteer group of community members who assist with creating and improving problem solving strategies for the diverse problems and issues brought to the atte 5/6/2009 4:40:36 PM
NEW SEARCH: Tree Removal Permit
Link to Document found:
http://www.redmond.gov/insidecityhall/planning/devreview/questions.asp
SEARCH RESULT: Frequently Asked Questions. This page contains downloadable forms in the Adobe Acrobat format. In order to view or print the forms you must have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer. (Obtain freeAcrobat Reader. Do I need a permit to build a fence? If you wish to build a fence, you do n
5/2/2007 9:25:17 PM
Do you want to try a Search for yourself? Click: "City Search Engine" and good luck.
You will find, the city search engine craps out on most searches. The Ives and Marchione Administration have been cognizant of this problem and our severely outdated city website for years, but continue to make no improvements. To date, all that has been "done" is: 1) conduct an online website survey. Have you taken it? and 2) held a few focus groups. I attended one, without results.
The public and council authorized $300,000 this biennium to build a new website as part of a budget priority called "Responsible Government". Almost two years later nothing of substance has been done to improve the city website. Is this "Responsible Governement"? Try the website and search engine and decide for yourself. http://www.redmond.gov/ Then write the mayor and tell him what you think. mayor@redmond.gov
Saturday, October 3, 2009
EDITORIAL - What am I trying to do with this Blog? The importance of my Readers
MISSION STATEMENT: The "Redmond Neighborhood Blog" brings transparency to the City of Redmond, Lake Washington School District, Evergreen Hospital District and other local jurisdictions, to encourage them to listen to their constituents and make positive changes; the Blog helps Greater Redmond citizens to share their lives, be seen and heard in their neighborhoods, come together to find solutions.After numerous tweaks, I'm satisfied with this Mission Statement and present it to you, my readers and friends. Do you want to say something?
I am a community activist. I do this for free. My core reporting niche is the scrutiny and daylighting of our local governments. Believe it or not, only about 1-2% of Redmond citizens really care about the City of Redmond government to participate in it's process. Present, high vacancies on the city's Boards and Commissions is one example. As long as the toilets flush, we have water to drink, roads free of potholes, taxes are reasonable, schools educate and we feel safe, then residents have other things to do than watch RCTV, go to a planning meeting, or fill out a city survey. This blog will help you feel more engaged with our elected.
To strike a balance with tedium and apathy of government (and keep Internet exposure high) I try to write about lifestyle experiences important to me as a resident that I think may interest you. But, Redmond is so much more than my family's living experience and what I think! It's about your lives. It's about what you think! So, please share your stories and photos, comment below a post, or send an email! And, please don't hesitate tell me how I can make this thing better.
I need to focus more on daylighting local governements. Will you share a Redmond experience? Do you have something to say about your neighborhood?
Thank you,
Bob Yoder, Editor
Redmond Neighborhood Blog
Please write to me at: redmondblog@gmail.com
425-802-2523
Friday, October 2, 2009
Redmond Center's Trader Joe's to open Friday, October 9th
Contributed by Debra Sinick Trader Joe’s (on Redmond Way next to QFC) will be a huge asset to Redmond. There are now fabulous shopping options in Redmond all the way from Whole Foods, Larry's (now Top Foods), QFC, and soon Trader Joe’s. Since all the stores are close to the downtown core, it gives shoppers the option to pick and choose what they buy at each store. The addition of Trader Joe’s will also help increase traffic to the other stores in the area.Thanksgiving is coming (hard to believe) and it’s one of the few times I actually cook! It’s made easier by Trader Joe’s because they’ll have packages of chopped veggies, onions, and yams. Not having to chop something like onions is a huge time saver.
Trader Joe’s not only has some great prices, but some great food. I love to buy cheese there, because it’s a much better value than most any other grocery store in the area. The selection is a good, basic selection, not nearly as complete as Whole Foods, but it’s reasonably priced. But my one true Trader Joe’s love is the dark chocolate 1 lb. candy bar. Try it, you’ll like it. Their frozen cheesecake is yummy, too! Oh, and they have great frozen appetizers you can heat up quickly in a microwave and….
What are your Trader Joe’s favorites?
Trader Joe's, 15932 Redmond Way, will be open from 9am- 9pm. Their retail category is "organic and imported food and beverages and everyday prices." This 12,000 SF Trader Joe's is an anchor store for the "Redmond Center" mall. It will feature art with local themes. Redmond Center's, Driftmier Architects were praised by city officials for investing in "installation art" at the Center. Edited by Bob Yoder
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Mental Health Court and Emergency Preparedness are 'studied' by Council
City Council Study Session with City Directors present
Updated: The City Council and staff are pictured above in their September 29th "Study Session." Council President Nancy McCormick chairs the sessions twice a month on Tuesdays.
The Directors and Council were in session to get emergency preparedness "training" on how they fit into the "Incident Command System" (ICS) program. ICS is a nationally mandated standard cities must follow to qualify for federal funding disaster relief. Pictured with backs to us, giving the training are (l-r) Mayor John Marchione, Emergency Specialist Tom Osborn, and Deputy Fire Chief Tom Norton.
Stephanie D. Mapelli, President of Leadership Eastside, was a first presenter at the Study Session. Leadership Eastside is a three-year teaching program that promotes connections, develops and enriches emerging leaders, and provides a catalyst for communities. John Marchione, Jeni Craswell, Hank Margeson, and Tom Flynn are a few who have graduated from the program. Arts Commission Chair, John Stilin and Deputy Fire Chief Norton are "on deck". The student mix is: 60% profit, 20% government, and 20% non government non profit.
Ms. Mapelli brought up the issue of Mental Health. She stated that pretty much everyone knows someone afflicted with a brain disorder. She commended Mayor Marchione and Councilmember Hank Margeson on their work through Eastside Leaderhip, to push for a suburban Mental Health Court. (The hard work has been done by our leaders,yet, the suburban mental health court is delayed by lagging taxes of the poor economy).
Council President Nancy McCormick usually holds a "council talk time" at the end of the session. Hank Myers said that 70 citizens showed up at a weed-pulling work party at a city park. Mr. Myers is known for biking to these programs with his large clippers.
Would you like to see how LWSD "sessions" compare to the city's sessions? They are strikingly different. Come back and see?
story and photo by Bob Yoder
updated to correct "Mental Health Court" link.
LETTER - Register to vote now on heated races for King County Executive, Council and Hospital District positions and important Measures!
LETTER
Every Vote Counts! Are you registered to vote? Is your voter registration address current? If not, act now! Monday, October 5 is the deadline to register online or by mail if you want to vote in the statewide November 3rd election. Register to vote online here. Change your voter registration address online here.
A lot is at stake this election, and your vote counts! Referendum 71 asks voters to approve or reject the domestic partnership law that was passed this spring by the Legislature and signed by Governor Gregoire. Tim Eyman's Initiative 1033 would cap state revenue. There are also heated races for King County Executive and Redmond City Council.
Ballots will be mailed out starting October 14. If you haven't received yours by October 20th, contact King County Elections at 206-296-VOTE (8683)
by Laurleen Blender
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