LINKS Volunteers: Caring about the needs of kids and schools - registering now

LINKS volunteer with her kids!

"LINKS":  Looking Into the Needs of Kids and Schools

"LINKS" is a program of the Lake Washington School District (LWSD), with funding provided by the Lake Washington Schools Foundation. LINKS recruits and places community volunteers in LWSD schools, including those in the Kirkland, Redmond and Sammamish communities. 

Contact Nanci Weir to sign-up or learn more at:  LINKS@lwsd.org
What Type of Volunteering Can I Do?

LINKS volunteers spend one hour per week in the classroom as mentors, tutors and classroom helpers. Volunteers are placed based on the needs of the schools in the district and the interests of the LINKS volunteers.   Read More!
  --Source:  LWSD website LINK page

COMMENT:  I was a Lunch Buddy for 8 years and junior high Project Impact buddy for two years.  It was a great experience for me at the time the schools were funding the program.   In 2010-11 program funding was taken over by the FOUNDATION and the road was a little rocky.  I've since heard the FOUNDATION  has a full-time Executive Director and is better run than ever.  Sign-up!  These kids need you! And, the rewards to you will be ten-fold. -- Bob Yoder

Evergreen Hospital is hoping to start a new midwifery program

 

A midwife measures the height of the mother's
fundus at about 26 weeks to
determine the probable gestational age
 of the fetus. (Wikipedia)

 Evergreen Hospital is hoping to start a new midwifery program and wants to know which services you would like to see as part of this program. Please take a few minutes and fill out this confidential survey.  Thank you for your time and participation!

To learn more about the campaign for a new Evergreen Midwifery program and connect with the local midwifery community visit this local Midwifry Facebook page.

What is mid-wifery all about?  FAQ

Click this link for the short, confidential survey:  http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SMPHPWR


Visit this site for more information on the survey and local midwifery services.

-Courtesy of  "Support Midwifrey at Evergreen Hospital"

LETTER: Group Health developer should buy own property to mitigate tree clear-cut

LETTER:  It's easy to assume the four listed parks would have received new trees regardless of the developer's actions. So, while this might reduce costs to the city, it won't result in offsetting trees removed from the Overlake property.

The developer should be required to purchase their own property, plant trees, and gauantee the survival of those trees for a reasonable period of time -- 99-years for example. Such a requirement has been place on developers in the past, in other areas of the U.S., and isn't unreasonable to expect here.

Letter by Douglas Burchard
Source:  Comment posted on:  "City identifies four locations for Group Health's clear-cut tree mitigation..."

ATTN:  Redmond Ombudsman-of-the-month, Councilmember Pat Vache'

The city identifies four locations for Group Health's Overlake clear-cut tree mitigation, City concedes additional densities to landowner

Current Group Health site - parking lot
 and treed canopy

UPDATED:  The entire 28-acre "Group Health Overlake Center" site is approved for complete clear-cutting (in phases) once development gets underway.  City council agreed 6-1 to an Exception of the long-standing ordinance that requires 35% retention of all trees in land use projects.    Over 1,100 of the original significant trees and larger landmark trees will be removed.

Bill Biggs, the proponent for landowner Group Health, presented a sealed offer during the December 13 meeting to assuage council and the large crowd speaking against 100% tree removal.  Council held off on their decision  to review Mr. Biggs offer.  (Mr. Biggs is also President of the Redmond Economic Development Alliance).

Mr. Bigg's offer was solely about the park.  It was reviewed by city staff and accepted by council on January 3, as this ammendment:

"The City shall design and install additional park improvements consistent with its neighborhood park standards RZC 21...."  In the process of designing the Park, the City shall consider retention of existing significant and landmark trees where feasible and consistent with good park design and public safety.  The Owner and members of the community shall be consulted and given opportunity to comment on proposed park features, design and materials. 

The City shall seek opportunities for preservation of trees in connection with the design of the Park"    

Associate city planner Dennis Lisk wrote:  "I looked into the number of significant and landmark trees located within the area of the future park and found approximately 12 significant trees, none of which are landmark trees."  Mr. Lisk said there was no guarantee these park trees would be retained, or any others.

Four-hundred trees are slated for planting on the site.  Their size is undefined, as to sapling or 12 foot standard trees.  Rain gardens, planted courtyards, pervious roads, and other LID features are planned.

To compensate for the tree removal, Group Health will plant 3,345 trees and 31,220 shrubs off site in parks and near creeks "to approximate the environmental benefits" of the Group Health forest canopy.  Once Group Health sells it's first parcel for development, ~250 trees will be planted in each of the following 2-acre sites:

• Juel Park (east)  [city contact:  Betty Sanders, bbsanders@redmond.gov]
• Perrigo Park (west)  [city contact:  Betty Sanders]
• Millennium Office Park/Swedish easement adjacent Bear Creek. [city contact: Dennis Lisk, ddlisk@redmond.gov]
• Viewpoint Open Space (after blackberries are cleared).  city contact:  [Betty Sanders]

Group Health will have another 2,300 trees and thousands of shrubs to plant at presently, unidentified locations. 

Of note, according to Lisk, "60% of the parking is underground and expensive and, as a concession to Group Health for this expense additional densities were permitted by the City."  i.e. building height and number of buildings.  Another, unnamed city official said density concessions were given in the earlier planning stages to retain the trees.

Comments are welcome. 

Reported by Bob Yoder
Photo by Yoder

Mayor Emeritus Rosemarie Ives objects to clear-cutting 28-acre urban Group Health site

This Group Health structure in Redmond's Overlake Center will be replaced mostly by a park and nearby 13-story hotel.
  "The City is required to seek opportunities to preserve landmark and significant trees in connection with the design
of the park."  The approved plan identifies "approximately 12 significant trees and no landmarks" in the area of the
future park.  There is no guarantee they will be saved.  - D. Lisk, Assoc. Planner, Redmond.

The following, was presented to city officials by Redmond's Mayor Emeritus Rosemarie Ives, on January 3, 2012 during "Items from the Audience"

Good evening Mayor and Redmond City Councilmembers. My name is Rosemarie Ives. I am here tonight as a resident to ask for reconsideration of the council’s decision on December 13th regarding the Group Health Master Plan and Development Agreement.

As the former mayor, I know that this forested property matters to the people of Redmond and those of us who are here tonight object to the clear-cutting of this iconic site. I believe that the criteria for exception to the tree preservation/retention regulations have been misapplied and not justified.  Read More >>

UPDATED JANUARY 25: LWSD Board looks to community for feedback on their "only most important decision" - hiring a superintendent

Jackie Pendergrass
President, LWSD  Board

UPDATED, Jan. 25:  I'd like to correct the Redmond Reporter's January 6 article: "Community invited to meet LWSD superintendent candidate."   The Reporter writes: "Pierce will replace Dr. Chip Kimball, who is leaving to take a school superintendent position in Singapore." This is misleading. The school board hasn't decided to replace Mr. Kimball with Traci Pierce.  They prefer Traci but are still open to suggestions and feedback. 

Deadline for input is February 22.  Contact: Board@lwsd.org


On December 6, Communications Director Kathryn Reith wrote:

"The board did not hire Traci. It stated that she is their preferred candidate. She will go through a process of being introduced to the community (meet and greets) and the board will solicit feedback. The board could after that feedback decide not to hire Traci. If that is their decision, they could indeed look at other internal candidates or external candidates."

I commend the school board on engaging the community in this critical decision they must vote on.  As the Board likes to say, "hiring a superintendent  is the only most important decision they make.";  leaving their decision open to community feedback is a wise and thoughtful action. I have attended many school board meetings and work sessions and have seen Traci in action. She's terrific and a good fit with the Board.  I don't know who could replace her in School Services.

As Traci makes her rounds, I am thrilled parents are getting a glimpse of Jane Todd's leadership skills during district "Town Meetings" on class re-configuration.  Please comment.

In the Evergreen JH Town Meeting and a PTSA newsletter, Ms. Todd speaks to the re-configuration challenge:

“We will get there by small steps and a clear view of our destination, not by grandiose plans that feel too big to accomplish, at least not all at once. When staff members look at me with desperation and fear in their eyes, born out of concern for students more than for themselves, I have been saying, "Take a deep breath and then take one manageable step... And, I mean it.”   

NEW!!  For families of incoming students, there's still time to see Traci and Jane and give your feedback to the school board, as follows:

>>>Traci Pierce's City of Sammamish: Tuesday, January 17 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers, Sammamish City Hall, 801 228th Ave SE Sammamish, WA

>>>Lake Washington School District: Wednesday, January 25 from 4:00- 5:30 p.m. in the Hughes Room of the L.E. Scarr Resource Center, 16250 NE 74th St., Redmond.

>>>Traci Pierce's City of Kirkland: Thursday, Feb. 7 from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at Kirkland City Hall, 123 Fifth Avenue Kirkland

>>>Jane Todd's  DATES MOVED AHEAD DO TO SNOW:  RHS Town Meeting for families of incoming students is in the Performing Arts Center, on Jan. 18 (Soph) and Jan. 25 (Frosh).  Call the new RHS number for times:  425-936-1800

Opinion By Bob Yoder

LWSD Administrator Jane Todd holds Town Hall Meeting at Evergreen Junior High

RHS Principal Jane Todd at the podium w/ associates
 addressing the LWSD Board, 2009.  Her speech topic:
"Building culture at RHS" 

from the desk of  RHS District Principal Jane Todd to the Redmond High Community...

I had the pleasure of meeting with all the 8th and 9th graders at Evergreen Junior High School a couple
of weeks ago (don't worry, RJHS, your turn will come in early 2012.) Other administrators from both
EHS and RHS participated with me in a Town Meeting format. I have to first tell you I was absolutely
charmed by all their questions, but my favorite was: Student: "So, tell me about the parking lot
situation at Redmond High." Me: (after a significant pause in which I tried to determine the seriousness of the question) "Well, if you can drive - with a license to do so - you can get a parking pass." The student was in the 8th grade. Never let it be said these students do not plan ahead.

At the end of each session, we were asked by Jan Olson, Principal at EJHS, to give one piece of advice
that students could act on now. Mine was, "Reflect on who you are, what you have done to date to
meet the goals you have for yourself and what changes you may need to make for the future because
you will have a fresh start next fall." I went on to mention that there are only a few times in our lives
when we have the opportunity to start over with a fresh slate. Read More >>

Native American Indian students perform for LWSD school board to an overflowing audience.

Eastside Native American Indian students perform in School District chambers.

Eastside Native American Indian students perform in December 5 school board business meeting to recognize retiring School Board member Ravis Shahadi's 8 years of service. (See Ravi squirm.) Mary Wilber, Director of the Eastside Native American organization also recognized the services of departing Sup. Chip Kimball.

The district chambers were overflowing with various groups attending, including: Merit Scholar awardees and their parents, Sammamish parents and students lobbying for Eastlake athletic field uses, citizens speaking for a convenient STEM school location on Willows Road, and PTSA members and press awaiting the Board's superintendent announcement. Jane Todd, Principal RHS and past-Principal of Juanita High introduced the Merit Scholars.

Eastside Native American Indian Association:  http://www.eastsideindianed.org/  The organization serves three school districts  

Video report By Bob Yoder

City Citizen Academy fosters civic leadership and volunteerism

Redmond’s 2012 Citizen Academy will begin on January 23, 2012 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm in the Council Chambers. The series will include a total of six sessions on Monday evenings as well as three optional tours of City facilities. This is an opportunity for Redmond community members to learn about the day-to-day functions of municipal government. In addition, participation can help foster civic leadership and volunteerism such as involvement with the upcoming Budgeting by Priorities process.
 
   -- Kim Dietz, Senior Planner, City of Redmond

UPDATED: LWSD School Configurations - Parent Night agendas - Parent / Student Guides

from the LWSD Admininistration...
5th / 6th Grade  GUIDE OR PARENTS & STUDENTS:   SCHOOL OPTIONS FOR CHOICE AND NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOLS.  Parent Night times and agendas

8th / 9th Grade  GUIDE FOR PARENTS AND STUDENTS:   HIGH SCHOOL OPTIONS FOR CHOICE AND NEIGHBGORHOOD SCHOOLS.  Parent Night times & agendas

["Town Meeting" with Jane Todd, with family members on Jan. 18  (Soph) and Jan. 25 (Frosh), per Mustang Weekly]

FAQ - SCHOOL CONFIGURATION - fall of 2012
Answers to common questions about the move to middle schools and 4-year high schools.

Lake Washington School District will move from a grades K-6 elementary school, grades 7-9 junior high school and grades 10-12 high school system to a grades K-5 elementary school, grades 6-8 middle school and grades 9-12 high school system in the fall of 2012.

Q. Why is Lake Washington making this change?

A.  High school transcripts and college admissions consider high school to be grades nine through 12. When ninth grade students are in a junior high school, it can be difficult for them to realize that their academic work actually counts toward high school graduation and college admissions. Four-year high schools are more conducive to college readiness.
    Demographic trends in this district are for a need for increased capacity in the elementary schools over the next ten years. By moving one grade (sixth) out of the elementary schools, classroom space is freed up for more classes in other grades. The amount of additional building needed to house the four-year high schools was considerably less than would be needed at the elementary level if sixth grade stayed in those schools.

Q. What is the difference between a middle school and a junior high school?   Read More >>

Find out what's going on your neighborhood - mail pick-up, crime & safety, deals, recycling and more!

City of Redmond Neighborhoods

Best wishes this New Year!

Have you checked out this blog's (RNB) "Neighborhoods" page lately?  It's always on the Header.  Lots of  good information here.  Updated, today!

For "vacation holds" on US Postal mail, this link provides time-saving information on how restore your deliveries and where the new "Annex" is located to pick up your mail. 

You will also find links to the following tips and services, and more:

• The city crime map
• What's the best kept secret in Redmond?  (AM 1650 Redmond Emergency Radio)
• Names and locations of Sex offenders living in Redmond
• Recycle your TV's, monitors and electronics for free in Redmond
• Sign up for Groupons
• Senior and affordable housing resources

Link to Neighborhood Page:  http://redmondcity.blogspot.com/p/neighborhoods.html

Happy New Year! from RNB!

Bob Yoder
Neighborhood Resident-Reporter

Satire on Redmond issue, video clip

"Portlandia on IFC" by Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein.

Portlandia TV series begins Friday, January 6, 8PM Pacific.

Pretty funny! Can you identify three Redmond cultural issues in this clip?

Posted By Yoder

Redmond Historical Society Holiday Invitation

Seasons greetings from the Redmond Historical Society...

Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for the New Year 2012!

Wouldn’t it be fabulous to be part of creating new extraordinary memories during our Redmond Centennial in 2012?

Please join us at the January 2012 monthly meeting and bring some friends! If everyone could bring a friend we could spread the word about our organization and upcoming events. It would be great to grow our membership to enjoy the Redmond Centennial Celebration with our community during the New Year 2012 and in the future. Please help us preserve Redmond Historical Society for generations to come, see you on Saturday, January 14, 2012.  Read More >>

Winter Wonderland Ride on Education Hill -- 10 sec clip

- captured after 2009 storm
Video by Bob Yoder

SR 520 Tolling starts December 29th - Q & A

Tolling on the SR 520 Bridge - Q & A


FOR ANSWERS TO All THESE IMPORTANT QUESTIONS, CLICK HERE!

When will tolling start on the SR 520 Bridge?  DECEMBER 29. 

Why is WSDOT tolling the SR 520 Bridge?

Why is WSDOT tolling the existing SR 520 Bridge?

Where will the tolls be collected?

Will tolls be collected in both directions?

What is the last SR 520 exit I can take before being subject to tolls?

Will tolling end when the project is paid off?

Are tolls on SR 520 unfair to those with lower incomes?

What are my options for taking transit across Lake Washington?

Will there be signs alerting drivers SR 520 is a tolled bridge?

"Snow-child melts Mom's heart"

Alcott Snow-child melts Mom's heart

Shot on 2/2011 on Alcott Elementary playfield next to the STEM school.  Even after the six mile drive from Education Hill, the Snow-ladies were holding their own in the sun.   

Send me one of your pictures!  redmondblog@gmail.com

Photo By Bob Yoder

STEM = "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math" school.

Taking Responsibility to Stop Sexual Abuse in Children

Taking Responsibility to Stop Sexual Abuse in Children

What every adult should know

One theme that has emerged from the Penn State sexual abuse scandal is the importance of adults taking responsibility for reporting suspicions about child abuse to the proper authorities. But many adults are unsure about what they see or where to report it.

So what do we do if we feel something is amiss? "Trust your gut," says Director of Youth and Family Counseling at Youth Eastside Services, Debbi Halela. "If something doesn't feel right, or your child is exhibiting unusual behaviors, don't ignore it." 

Empower children    Read More >>

Redmond Mustangs dominated the Eastlake Boys on Friday 82-61, next home game Jan. 3

The Mustang SuperFans came out in strength and volume last Friday (12/9) on Eastlake's turf.  Redmond dominated on the road last  beating Eastlake 82-61. Jason Harrington and Leslie Ellis led the charge, as Redmond jumped out to an early lead and never looked back.

The Stangs played  at home against Skyline this Tuesday, losing 58-44.  The 'Stangs travel to San Francisco over the Holidays to play in the Bambauer Tournament, December 27- 31.   

Next home game is Friday night, January 3rd against Roosevelt.  Start the New Year right by coming out to support the 'Stangs!  

Video report by Bob Yoder