Running with Dogs -- Ashford Trail

Contributed by Richard Morris
Here is how the city of Redmond describes Ashford Trail 1/4 mile: Soft surface equestrian and hiking trail linking Hartman Park with Avondale Road through the Ashford Park development along 180 Ave NE.
Ashford Trail has historical roots. This short trail follows alongside Perrigo Creek, which begins at the top of Education Hill, and ends when it joins Bear Creek. Perrigo Springs, long ago, served as the source of water for Redmond. The pioneer-day Perrigo Farm on top of Education Hill used water from Perrigo Springs.

Naomi Hardy, Redmond Historical Society, contributed this bit of history: "The little Perrigo Springs was purchased by the Redmond Water Department in 1914 and was the first water supply for the newly incorporated town of Redmond. A dam was originally constructed to impound the water for storage, with the transmission main a 4” to 8” wood stave pipe. This site was Redmond’s only water supply until 1927 and served as a major source of supply until 1962. Currently the spring is still there, trickling through a small, forested valley, past the city’s Perrigo Springs Reservoir and makes its way to Bear Creek. There is a wide trail near the spring that goes up Education Hill. Hikers and school kids and the curious use this trail".
Near the reservoir is a commemorative tree and plaque marking this historic water source. You can read more about historic Perrigo Springs on a previous post

Ashford Trail before it was widened and graveled by the City

You can enter the Ashford Trail from Avondale at 180th Ave. This is the entrace to Ashford Park, a condominium community in Redmond. Just drive (or bike) up 180th Ave, until the road ends. There is a water tower (recently renovated by the Water Department) and an old concrete dam across Perrigo Creek. A camera was installed at the top of the water tower to record people who might damage the marker and Corkscrew Willow tree.  See a map of this area.

Richard Morris with Saddie

You can also enter the Ashford Trail from the top of Education Hill where NE100th St ends at 171st Ave NE. The first 1/2 mile walk is flat, then the trail sharply descends to the water tower and becomes 180th Ave NE. If this steep trail looks to difficult, you can cross over Perrigo Creek and enter the "back side" of Hartman Park. This short connector trail comes out on 176th Ave NE (King County Swimming pool is located at the end of this street).

If you are adventurous, and like a hiking challenge, walk down Avondale (south towards Redmond Town Center), until you reach NE 88th PL . Go the end of the road, and you will find a trail leading up Education Hill. You can climb back up the hill (very steep) and the trail comes out at Nike Park. My companion dog, Sadie, is good at scrambling up the steep slope, but it is slow climb for me to find my footing on the loose forest soil.
Richard Morris, co-author, Education Hill neighborhood

What's an "Undriver"?

Contributed by next door neighbor, Richard Morris:

" As you know, I ride the metro over to Overlake Transit Center. But I am always amazed at the huge number of cars, passing by the bus stop in front of Jr High. Many have Microsoft parking stickers hanging from the driver's rear-view mirror. The ridership on the Metro 221 route is actually fairly low. So your blog could raise awareness about taking the bus from Ed Hill over to Overlake Transit Center. It is easy because Microsoft provides a FLEX PASS." -- Richard Morris

Undriver Licenses are issued to people who make a pledge to reduce their car use in the coming month. Undrivers get their own personalized license made on the spot, and also 2 free bus tickets courtesy of King County METRO, 2 Sound Transit tickets, and a 2-for-1 Amtrak Cascades coupon. $5 is a suggested donation.

Everyone can be an Undriver – it doesn’t mean giving up your car entirely (though some people might end up doing that!) And if you’ve ever walked, bused, or biked instead of driving, you are already an Undriver.

Every mile of "undriving" is one pound of CO2 that is not going into the atmosphere. Other benefits are: reduced stress, saving money, better health and fitness, more community connections, even more time!

To register contact: julia@sustainableballard.org or visit the Undriver site. Cascade Bicycle Club supports Undrivers with route-finding and bicycle safety information.
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Send you comments and ideas to redmondblog@gmail.com for posting below on this page or click the "comments" button.

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"Maybe you could engage your Presbyterian Church members? At my church, Unity of Bellevue, we hosted Julia Field, director of Undriving. Now I am attempting to network with Microsoft Facilities. Microsoft is piloting a Sustainability Floor Captain program in Bldg 16. The aim is to reduce energy use and water consumption in the office building."

-- Richard Morris, Education Hill neighbor

6/17/07 Councilmember Marchione responds to Perrigo Heights development

From: John Marchione
To: Bob Yoder ; Jim Robinson
Cc: MayorCouncil
Sent: Monday, June 11, 2007 3:50 PM
Subject: RE: Perrigo Heights has been cleared

Dear Mr. Yoder, I am responding as Ombudsman (Council spokesman) for the month of June. As you know, Perrigo Heights has been an emotionally charged issue for a few years. Many neighbors requested the City purchase all of the land and preserve it as a park. The City did purchase a portion of the land to buffer the trail that runs up 99th street. This reduced the plat from about 36 homes to about 24. The Parks Board and the City Council have been aware of your request for the City to purchase the land. In general, the land was considered very expensive and Education Hill is served by more parks than any other neighborhood in Redmond. Forbidding development was not an option. A property owners retains his rights to build with in the community standards. This issue has been discussed with community input in previous years.

Sincerely,
John Marchione

OMBUDSMAN for Redmond City Council

7/28/07, My 'Citizen Watch' Reporter column discontinued

The new Redmond Reporter editor from Seattle, Mr. Bill Christianson, appears to have discontinued my "Citizen Watch" column. So best not to waste your time looking for it in the paper.

I wanted you to know the new, young Editor decided not publish my "History of Redmond Mayors" column after recieving a "Press Advisory" from Kim Van Eckstrom, of City Communications. Kim (and the Mayor) complained of "errors" in my "water supply " opinion column. It was clear they were trying to discredit me. Most of my column information that Kim Van Eckstrom said was wrong was taken right off the city website -- edited by Van Eckstrom.

So far, the newspaper has been unable to set the record straight for me and has referred me to the city. Looks like the city 'owns' the paper now. Obviously, during an election politics are heightened. Such is the case. It is known that certain high-level staff members are actually campaigning for Jim Robinson. The "Press Advisory" was triggered by a blog I wrote on Jim's campaign sign "challenge" for safety. At that point, the Administration knew who I was supporting. They have also been frustrated by my blog.

The good news is I'm working with the city administration to improve the factual content on their website, (or stand behind it), encourage a comprehensive water conservation program, and improve communications with citizens who wish to participate in our government.
If you want to read any of my "Citizen Watch" columns they're all posted on the Front Page of this blog under the "MY GROUPS" , "Community ". I've also posted a detailed rebuttal to the Administration about their "Correction" claims there.

Letters to the Editor can me mailed to letters@redmond-reporter.com

Thanks for your readership!
As always,
Bob

RICHARD MORRIS - "Letter to Editor" RR
Bob Yoder’s Citizen Watch column (July 11th) apparently hit a nerve at the Redmond City Hall. I just wanted to clarify our discovery of hidden waste tanks near Evans Creek. Bob and I were doing some field research on Redmond’s Stream Map Update in October 2005. We were concerned about the classification of each stream shown on Redmond’s Stream Map. The map is used by developers to make Land Use Proposals. We discovered hidden waste tanks near Evans Creek along Union Hill Road, and inquired about the status of the tanks with the City of Redmond. After some jurisdiction discussions, King County Councilwoman Kathy Lambert and staff visited the site. The waste tanks were removed in November 2005.I have known Bob Yoder as a neighbor for over 25 years. We have worked together on many Citizen Watch projects as we are both passionate about Redmond’s natural assets. I am proud to know Bob and I can assure you that he strives to do his best to raise awareness about quality of life issues in Redmond. I encourage other readers to support Bob Yoder’s Citizen Watch column in the Redmond Reporter. The newspaper is our community forum.
Saturday July 28, 2007 - 02:00pm (PDT)

RICHARD MORRIS:
Bob, here is an interesting article on http://www.slate.com/id/2171305/fr/flyout about a journalist who is given a second chance. I thought you might find it interesting reading.If the RR gives you a second chance to write Citizen Watch, I have some ideas on how to write a bullet-proof column.I think you have found your voice, and it is effective. If no one in the city hall were reading your column, they would not have “objected to your version of facts”.I hope the RR gives you a second chance to write Citizen Watch. Your column is needed in our town.Thanks, Richard
Saturday July 28, 2007 - 02:02pm (PDT)

YODER
Thanks, Richard. After glancing at this Saturday's RR "opinion column" on trans-fats I realized we do need a respectable citizen Forum in the RR. Maybe they could take my column space and give to the candidates - "Candidate's Turn". If we could get the city to ask - especially Van Eckstrom the young editor would probably move on it. Another idea would be: "Staff's Turn". Then Bill Campbell would be able to explain the continuing Perrigo Springs mess and Kim Van Eck. could defend her "corrections" policy or explain her 16 yeaar old water conservation initiatives. So far, I haven't found them. :) Bob
Saturday July 28, 2007 - 03:12pm (PDT)

COUSIN BRUCEY
hey ho bobo great caesar's ghost kent...perry white woulda never given ya the heave ho... apparently whats news to some is disruptive to others...the squelching of opinion or commentary is a red flag for its need...so it'll be up to the regulars of this blogusphere to stand atop the hill of information you provide and cast its wisdom upon our uneducated masses... probably time to launch that write in candidacy...ey bobo.
Monday July 30, 2007 - 12:36pm (PDT)

FROM: Barb Thompson, Ed. Hill -- I just sent off an email to the Redmond Reporter complaining them about the removal of your column. I want you to know that I appreciate your “cut to the chase, tell the whole story” philosophy.8/5/07

Updated & Republished 4/13, 5:30AM Redmond Historical Society "Hero Awards"

History Hero Awards 2006-2014

Over the past five years we have given out 5 History Hero awards to people in the community who are making a contribution to preserving and sharing history in Redmond. Here is a list of this years' and past years' recipients of the award:

2001    Tom Fix. City of Redmond

2001    Dale Potter, Member & volunteer

2001    William "Billy" Dale Tibbits

2006    Rosemarie Ives, then Mayor of Redmond

2007    Charles Payton, then Director of King County's Heritage Division

2008    Dianna Brodie, then City Planner, City of Redmond

2009    Randy and Stephanie Reeves and Paul and Patty Gordon, owners of the Stone House

2010    Brad Best, owner Brad Best Reality

2011    John Couch, Former Redmond Parks Director

2012    Naomi and Jerry Hardy, for Naomi’s tireless work as a Founder, Director, and Historian; Jerry’s support

2012    Richard Morris, Webmaster, 2008 to 2013

2013    Gene and Cheryl Magnuson, volunteers and exhibit designers

2014    Miguel Llanos, co-founder and Newsletter editor for 16 years

We thank all the award winners for helping the Redmond Historical Society's mission of ensuring our History for future generations.

   -- The above article was found on the Redmond Historical Society web site: redmondhistoricalsociety.org

My Notes & Comments:

Tom Fix played a key role during the installation of the Perrigo Springs historical marker

Rosemarie Ives:  I've had long phone talks with Rosemarie over the years for one reason or the other. It's a bit challenging to put a word in.   Rosemarie probably knows more current city "history"  than any member of the Redmond Historical Society, but I feel she's frustrated because she doesn't seem to have an outlet.  Hopefully, the Society will  someday embrace her and record more of her knowledge and experiences.  A podcast would be nice.  Perhaps the society could fund a biography.

John Couch has moved back to Redmond.  The Redmond Kiwanis are hoping he'll become a member.  He was the city's Director of Parks for 30 years.  He supports Steve Fields for city council.

Naomi Hardy:  Naomi was inspiring! After she passed away in 2012 the city approved construction of the downtown "Naomi Hardy Clock Tower."  Years ago she called and asked me to run for council; she advised I write my blog at the 7th grade level. (That was easy!) She compared me to Ms. Beason.  From what I can remember of our one phone call, she seemed to have a phone manner similar to Rosemarie....excited, informative, passionate and long. 

Richard Morris is my neighbor of over 20 years. I introduced Richard to the society. When hiking along Evans Creek one day we came upon AWR oil trucks polluting the creek. This discovery eventually led to a crackdown by least 5 regulatory agencies.  We celebrated a "youth history event" at Perrigo Springs. I often see him running with his dog in the neighborhood and trails and chatting with the neighbors. 

Cheryl Strong Magnuson is an active RHS volunteer, one of the administrators for their Facebook page and posts nearly every day. (I confuse her with Laura Lee Bennett.) I met her at last year's "Poets in the Park" event next to her RHS display featuring Anderson Park.  Cheryl told me she volunteers almost everyday, "mainly providing programming for seniors including several musical groups and a gardening program."    

When Miguel Llanos was laid-off from MSNBC (a writer) he free-lanced and taught tennis. He now teaches at Overlake School.  Miguel is very engaging, likable, respected by his neighbors and always has a smile.  Naomi references him frequently in her "Redmond Reflections" book though still today he participates in the community as a member of the tourism board and landmark commission.   

The awards are presented each June.  In addition to the list published through 2014, the society has awarded three more in 2015 and 2016 and they'll  be announcing the 2017 recipient in the June newsletter.

Bob Yoder
Updated:  7/28/2017

My e-bike hill climb

Richard Morris holding the PIM bike (see the battery?)

We had our first good weather in months today!  The sun even came out!  It was time to finally roll my PIM e-bike (electric bicycle) demo out from the garage.  I invited my neighbor, Richard Morris, to come over, check it out; he immediately wanted on.   Richard walks 2-3 miles everyday with his dog so had no problem climbing this gentle hill  He didn't need any power, just down-shifted some. I think this particular bike has 18 gears....just like a regular bike.

I tried the bike months ago but it was way too frigid to shift and I was in crappy shape.  I was dying to get out today to try Power level 3 since I had trouble finding it earlier.  I needed Power 3 to get up 166th.  Pam, my wife, was on me to be safe so I took 171st from the Redmond Bike Park down to Redmond El. (virtually no traffic.)   A few huffs or two and I was up.  Yikes! ...next time I'll gear up for a better fat-burn.

It was awesome to get some fresh air and see the green native-growth easement again.

B. Yoder

"Save Your Bus Route!", By Richard Morris

King County Council member Jane Hague

3rd from the left

Save Your Bus Route!

LETTER:  If the Congestion Reduction Charge (temporary two-year $20 car tab fee) doesn't pass, several routes are scheduled to be eliminated or scheduled for service reductions and revisions.

Because of the recession, King County Metro's funding from sales tax has plummeted. Metro has already undertaken extreme efficiency measures to keep the buses running, but they are facing a 17% budget gap. Without the temporary $20 car tab fee, King County Metro will have to cut bus service by 17 percent!

This would mean 177 bus routes under King County Metro would be slashed, reduced, or even eliminated. 36% of commuters in King County currently use the bus.

We need transit to reduce commuter gridlock and protect the environment. People rely on King County Metro buses to get to work, school and the hospital. In fact, these cuts will disproportionately affect people of color, immigrants and our elders who make up a large percentage of transit-dependent riders throughout King County.

On August 15, six votes are needed by King County Council to pass an emergency ordinance to put the measure on the ballot or to approve the measure without requiring a public vote.

Please email Council member Jane Hague and urge her to vote YES on The Congestion Reduction Charge on August 15. jane.hague@kingcounty.gov  [and email Council member Kathy Lambert at:  kathy.lambert@kingcounty.gov].

By Richard Morris

Redmond, WA.

Photo:  courtesy King County website

LETTER: Should Year-Round Schooling be an option for managing LW District growth?

Richard Morris and Sadie

 Before we moved to Redmond, my family lived in a number of states due to military duty. Colorado Springs used a year-round school schedule to reduce overcrowding in its schools. In a nutshell, our school facilities sit idle for approximately 12 weeks during the summer break. Year-round scheduling utilizes that 12 week break by implementing multi-track schedules. 

Year-Round School is the scheduling of educational institutions so that students take class throughout the entire calendar year. A motivation is that higher student throughput is accomplished via more effective scheduling of school resources. Year round schedules deliver the same number of total days of classroom education and vacation as traditional calendars, distributed differently throughout the year. Funding considerations favor multi-tracking students, which allows more students to use the same number of classrooms, instead of constructing entirely new schools. Some institutions use this method to relieve overcrowding in some of the larger schools.

Advocates claim that year-round calendars help students achieve higher and allow teachers to provide more effective education. Reports from the California State Department Of Education show that standardized reading test scores increased 19.3% for year-round grade school students[1] and that a greater number of year-round students met state score objectives than those on traditional schedules[1]. Conversely, opponents insist that year-round education is detrimental to student learning. Some school board officials and studies indicate negative impacts of schedule changes and year-round education. Lawsuits have even been filed against various school districts to block or ban year-round calendars,[2] charging that year-round education is "harmful to students."
 
By Richard Morris
Education Hill - Redmond
i Phone Photo by Yoder

LWSD Overcrowding input session schedule:
Tuesday, September 28, Eastlake High School, 6-8 p.m.
Thursday, September 30, Juanita High School, 6-8 p.m.
Wednesday, October 6, L.E. Scarr Resource Center, Redmond Town Center, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Redmond Historical Society (RHS) is approaching 100 meetings

RHS Past President Judy Lang & Current President, ex-Mayor Chris Himes (right)

“Did you know that we are approaching 100 general meetings,” our website guru Richard Morris asks?  He
knows because thanks to Nao Hardy’s work we have an online list of meetings showing who spoke at each one and when.  To find the list go to http://www.redmondhistoricalsociety.org/

By Miguel Llanos
Editor, Redmond Historical Society Newsletter

Richard Morris is my neighbor and the original contributor to Redmond Neighborhood Blog (RNB).  You can find his stories and posts here.  B. Yoder

Ex-Mayor Chris Himes spoke at the August 6 "First Friday Coffee Chat" sponsored by the Senior Center.  Read the Redmond Reporter article on Mayor Himes talk.  B. Yoder

RHS Founder Naomi Hardy "Redmond Reflections - from settlers to software"  is available on Amazon, the library, and all local bookstores.  B. Yoder

11/17/06, St. Jude Informational Meeting on Proposed Tent City

11/17/06 St. Jude Informational Meeting on Proposed Tent City
Anyone who was climbing a wall of fear about Tent City should be on solid ground after Father Dave's well run meeting tonight.
Only about 50 people showed up and it was quiet. No arguing. Lots of listening. People filled out cards to get questions answered. I was surprised when I noticed about 10 tent city "residents" sitting up front. They were bused in from Finn Hill. I have to say my eyes got moist when they stood up to introduce themselves. Their clothes were clean. All were well kept. One resident said it best, as to why they are "in camp".... survival, survival, survival.
An Education Hill resident got up and talked about the positive experience her synagogue had with a tent city in Bellevue. The camp was next door to a day care and a school. Never once a problem with crime. The tc-residents were so well received that neighbors lined up to serve a warm meal for them. Obviously, a lot was learned about compassion and charity from this tent city experience. I am looking forward to my daughter learning a few things about life that she can't get out of a book or the basketball court.
One t-c resident who spoke was a divorced elementary school teacher. She has lived in "camp" for just over 2 years. At first, this repelled me. But, when I asked a t-c resident why she didn't move on to an apt. they explained she had a house but camps out 1night/week just to help the "camp". I think parents will feel better knowing a school teacher lives in tent city out of choice in part to make a point about the safety of the "camp"!
Mayor Ives and commissioners Martin and Lori Snodgrass were present. Don Cairns, a Redmond Traffic planner (and church leader) attended. When the city permit is filed notice will be sent out to residents within 500 feet of the church....for a Public Meeting. More updates later but it looked like the t-city was largely accepted by citizen attendees- warmly by many.
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from my friend & neighbor, Richard Morris - "Bob, This is a great write-up. Thanks for sending out the info about St. Jude’s interest in hosting TC.My church community has been involved with Tent City for a few years. We don’t have a property to provide a camp site; however, our church community volunteers to prepare and serve a meal about once a month. A few of the TC residents attend our church once in a while. They all have regular jobs, some in “high tech”. 11/16
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From: Richard Cole
To: 'Bob Yoder'
Sent: Thursday, November 16, 2006 10:34 PM
Subject: Informational Meeting for St. Jude's Tent City proposal
Bob,
Thanks again for including me. I have been watching this process and have attended a number of meetings for Kirkland. My observations are the same as yours. These are generally good people and I don't believe there ever was an incident during their times in Kirkland. This is on the technical committee's agenda next week for preliminary discussion.
Richard
Redmond City Council Member

Running With Dogs on the Power Line Trail

Richard holding Sadie (2008)

Republished in memory of Richard's dog, Sadie -- 

For the past year or so, I have been running daily with two Australian Shepherds. I have been taking care of my daugther's dog, Scooby, while she is living in the U.K. It is a learning experience for me to watch these herding dogs in action, trying their best to round up squirrels and rabbits that happen to cross our path. These are hard working dogs and love to punch a time clock. Typically, we start out around 7:00 AM, and if possible again at 5:00PM. These hard working dogs mostly sleep all day, but they keep a watch at my living room window. They let me know if any thing unusual happens to walk into our front yard. They have excellent eye sight, and a healthy bark to warn me of any out-of-the-ordinary visitors. Mostly, they know the sound of my car, and of my wife's truck, and stay quiet when we pull into our drive way. Read More >>

LETTER: King County Councilmember Jane Hague explains position on $20 car tab fee

Jane Hague responds to Richard Morris's "Save Your Bus!" query, on the proposed $20 car tab increase to support METRO.  Richard recommends R-Trip incentives.  Mr. Morris, an Education Hill Neighbor, shares Hague's response...

Incumbant Jane Hague, Pos. 6

King County Coumcilmemmber

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for writing me and voicing your concern over the proposed $20 car tabs fee.

As you may have read, a vote on the “congestion reduction fee” was expected to take place at the July 25th Council meeting. Instead, this vote was unexpectedly delayed until August 15th. I still oppose a councilmanic adoption of the $20 car tab increase. Further, I am concerned by the fact that the $20 fee will still result in a reduction of bus service for the Eastside and that Metro has not fully implemented plans to control its ongoing budget growth.

As a firm supporter of transit, I have said consistently through this debate that I have many concerns about Metro’s future. First, as I mentioned above, significant route eliminations and reductions on the Eastside will occur even if the car tab fee is implemented. These service hours will be allocated elsewhere. Eastsiders will ultimately be paying for service they will not receive. Second, long term solutions for Metro’s future have yet to be discussed. The fee doesn’t solve the underlying issues and uses important reserves to fill-in budget holes.

I don’t think it’s responsible to my constituents in District 6, nor the people of King County, to endorse a weak “band-aid” solution. Again, thank you for writing. Let me know if you have any additional questions or concerns. I look forward to continuing this debate.

Sincerely,

Jane Hague

King County Council – District 6

Email: jane.hague@kingcounty.gov 

Phone: 206-296-1006

http://www.kingcounty.gov/Hague  http://www.facebook.com/kccJaneHague

UPDATED: A review of "Bob and Shirley Ferguson's presentation" at this Saturday's Historical Society Speakers Program

My wife and I went to the Redmond Historical Society speakers program today. It's been a long time since we went to one.  The program featured a terrific presentation by Bob and Shirley Ferguson, owners of the Ben Franklin Crafts and Frames store.  The Ferguson's two sons who now run the store were on stage spicing up the talk.  Read More >>

Home prices and population skyrocketing

Richard and Eileen  Morris

Thousands of Microsoft, Nintendo and other employees commute into Redmond every day raising the daytime population almost three-fold.  Of course most prefer living in Redmond to avoid the commute and to live in the premier LW school district. Supply simply can't keep up with demand and prices are skyrocketing.  Typically a bidding war begins right after a house is listed with the deal closed within a week.

My long-time friend and neighbor Richard and Eileen Morris sold their Education Hill, 2490 sf house for an incredible $906,000. They purchased it in 1982 for $100,000.  I'm really going to miss them but it's his time to retire (and "get the hell out of dodge." as I like to say.)  He, like many old-timers was a passionate community volunteer.   Richard spent hours building-out the Redmond Historical Society website and was honored the "History Hero" in 2012,  I will miss them dearly but they're not far away!

B. Yoder

Redmond growth will accelerate for years.  Currently our resident population is close to 68,000.  According to city projections,78,000 residents are expected by 2030.

  

10/25, Restored: Historic Perrigo Springs Marker & Willow

For many months, Redmond Public Works construction projects adjacent to historic Perrigo Springs have negatively impacted the commemorative "marker" and Willow. (see earlier blogs). Public Works contractors finally cleaned up the site but left crushed rock under the tree.

Recently, friends of Perrigo Woodlands & the Historical Society restored the site. Crushed rock on top of the marker and tree was raked back and fresh bark was spread. Litter was removed. (The original RHS installation is pictured on left.)

For over 2000 years, the peaceful Snoqualmie (Sqwak) Indians camped near this Spring and foraged Bear Creek for salmon, mussels and berries. Early pioneers were attracted to the spring and it was the city's first water supply. Hartman wetlands and the surrounding woodlands makes up the watershed supplying this spring. It still rises up today from seasonally dry Perrigo Creek. Naomi Hardy, co-founder of the Redmond Historical Society found the rock marker nearby and in 2004 a ceremony was held commemorating the site.

A neighbor and trail runner, Richard Morris, took this photo. He reports the commemorative tree is a "Corkscrew Willow". It will grow 20-30 feet high and up to 25 feet wide with adequate water. The young branches grow in a spiral, twisting fashion. I remember, in the winter storm of 2006 one of our friend's huge Corkscrew Willow in their front yard was uprooted.

LETTER: Commercial development in our neighborhoods? Enough is Enough.

LETTER:  "The Planning commission writes, "We certainly understand the need to keep residential development and rendering plants separate, but do not see the immediate incompatibility of a corner coffee shop, produce store or bakery with the needs of residents who might walk to such an establishment." This kind of "planning" seems very out of touch with reality. The reality is that development in each zone is largely complete. We already have plenty of coffee shops, produce stores, and bakery shops in Redmond. We folks moved out to the suburbs (Redmond) and fell into the State Growth Management Act (1990). A tension was established that pits constant development with a desire for open space, and quality of life. Enough is enough. Let us live in peace, without commercial development in our neighborhoods."

By Richard Morris

Education Hill

This opinion is an excerpted, signed comment written under the post about 'Two planning commissioners Minority report on micro-level neighborhood commercial.'   Your Letters and Opinions are welcome.  Please send them by comment or to my email.   Include your name if you are comfortable doing so.  B.Y.

UPDATED: Launch of the Historical Society's Walking Tour Mobile App

This is my attempt to scrapbook the Redmond Historical Society's "Steps in Time" launch. "Steps in Time" is a mobile app walking guide for people interested learning about our landmark buildings and downtown history.  Redmond historian Tom Hitzorth is still giving "live" walking tours.  Mr. Hitzroth customizes each walk.  Register Here.

Senior V.P. Mary Hanson came up with the name for the mobile app. This event was colorful, fun and informing.  I learned  how Mr. Hitzroth searches, investigates and documents historical records  I especially liked the youth coloring program and costumes.  

Mary Hanson, Senior V.P. of the  Redmond Historical Society with Richard Morris,
a Society webmaster volunteer and my neighbor

https://youtu.be/gWnK_0fxSVY  

John Tosh Homestead presentation by Redmond historian Tom Hitzroth

 Miguel Llanos, Co-Founder of Redmond Historical
Society and Redmond's friendliest cop.  Miguel later
tried the Walking Tour App.

https://youtu.be/axFaj2aFsmI
Tom Hitzroth tells a little bit about himself and how he investigates

The costumes were donated by A Masquerade Costume  We were generously given quality bags to carry home literature and small gifts donated by city businesses. 

East Redmond Park & Trail Corridor Plan

Eastern Corridor Park Property Master Plan - "String of Pearls"

The City of Redmond Parks and Recreation recently held its first of two community workshops on our Eastern Corridor of parks and trails. Linkage of five creek-lined, parks with trails and ideas for "best uses" were discussed. Parks planner, Linda Frkuska facilitated the meeting stating: "This collection of Parks is a tremendous asset to Redmond and we want to make sure we are shaping them for the people that will use and enjoy them.". The Eastern Corridor parks, from north to south, are Juel Community Park, Ferrel-McWhirter, Conrad Olson, Perrigo and Arthur Johnson. Approximately 20 citizens attended, including councilmembers Nancy McCormick and briefly, Hank Margeson. Hank was past Vice-chair of the Parks Commission. Hank's family enjoys the Pony Club at Ferrel-McWhirter and soccer fields at Perrigo. Three citizen interest groups were noticeably present:

• Equestrian interests - horse trails at Juel and Perrigo; preference for soft trails; a covered arena at Farrel-McWhirter; signage to warn mountain bikers near the Avondale-PS trail.
• Bear and Evans Creek natural area interests - pervious, narrower trails; attention to the preserving the natural environment; environmental education; trail location & best use.
• Sports interests - Cricket use of Juel Park. Disc golf at Juel. Mountain biking clubs did not attend.

Guy Mikelson, a Seattle consultant of Berger Partnership, led discussion by suggesting three themes for the eastern corridor: 1) history, 2) environmental, 3) "linear arboretum" . Bear and Evans Creek riparian habitat touches all five parks and is the signature piece connecting all parks. Historical buildings add interest and possible uses by "artists in residence" and heritage exhibits.

Miguel Llanos, Redmond Historical Vice President, recommended signage along the future connecting trail to explain the area’s natural (salmon and other wildlife) and human (Native Americans, loggers, farmers) heritage. He suggested the historic Conrad Olsen barn, Juel house and Perrigo Park barn as possible locations for heritage displays and a quasi-museum.

Citizens having interests in using this corridor should contact the Parks Commission or a staff. A final meeting will be held on Thursday, June 5th, 7pm, Old Redmond School House Community Center. Public is invited.  

-- Bob Yoder & Richard Morris, Education Hill neighborhood

UPDATED: Almost EVERYONE WINS! - Redevelopment of the Keller Farm, 9/3/07

UPDATED on 4/18/13.   It's my understanding the wetland bank program has been delayed for 5 years.  I don't know the details, but you could contact the city council ombudsman at council@redmond.gov for an explanation. 

OPINION:  My friend and neighbor, Richard Morris, wrote a "guest" blog a few months ago about new developments at historic Keller Farm near Avondale and Union Hill road. Recently, the planning commission has been holding public meetings on the project. The commission graciously left their meeting open for "comment". If you have something to say for the record, you may still comment (as of 8/5/07) to the planningcommission@redmond.gov

If ever there was a WIN-WIN land-use & re-zone project in Redmond THIS is it!
Below is an assessment of community needs that will be satisfied by the Aegis Living - Keller Farm development.

1. Mr. Keller, owner of historic Keller Dairy Farm and now pumpkin farm has agreed to sell his land to a developer, but the low density residential zoning and Critical Area characteristics impeded progress and land values.
2. The City classified much of Keller's land as protected, "critical areas" -- 1) recharge zone for maintaining our well water supply, 2) and hazardous flood zone, 3) riparian and fish & wildlife Protection Area; and wetland making re-zoning and development difficult.
3. Aegis Living retirement company sought a premium location to attract and service their retirement clientele and obtain a location close to their corporate headquarters.
4. The long-time landowners with grandfathered 25 foot buffers on Evans Creek want to increase the value of their land so that SE Redmond can be redeveloped. Evans Creek is a salmon bearing, straight channel with little or no riparian habitat or buffers.
5. Perrigo Creek is taking on higher concentrations of stormwater run-off from new developments (Perrigo Heights, 180 Ave, and SR 520) presenting negative impacts to priority Bear Creek habitat.
6. Environmentalists (Muckelshoot Indian Tribe, WaterTenders, community activists) want to protect priority open space, habitat, and species.
7. Redmond Historical Society and residents want to preserve our heritage and our view corridors.
8. Congested traffic needs to be mitigated on Avondale Road during redevelopment of the corridor.
9. 5000 senior citizens 65 years and older live within a 3 mile radius of Keller Farm and will need retirement accommodations and care.
10. Affordable housing is scarce for residents and workers in Redmond.
11. Wetland mitigation banks are needed in Redmond to facilitate growth.

How the above needs will be satisfied (in sequence):

1. The residential and agricultural zoning of Keller Farm will be amended to "Bear Creek District" allowing Mr. Keller to sell his 126 acre farm for a good return to Aegis Health Care (8.8 acres) and a "wetland bank" entrepreneur ((117 acres).
2. A "wetland bank" is created in partnership with the the city and Aegis. The bank allows the city to protect their valuable recharge wellhead protection zone, protected riparian habitat and species, priority flood zone & wetlands. Susan Wilkins stated our 1998 FEMA Flood Map was dated. Kim Richardson had concerns about pesticides.
3. Aegis Living, website here, will build a state-of-art retirement complex next to their corporate headquarters. Assisted living with focus on memory care will be provided. Alzheimer's is expected to grow by 10-fold by 2050. 1 in 5 citizens will be over 65 by 2030, according to Brain Poge of Aegis.
4. An easement is created in the wetland bank to allow for re-routing & meandering of Evans Creek away from SE Redmond businesses. Riparian habitat will be restored and creekside resident land value will increase stimulating redevelopment of SE Redmond.
5. Perrigo Creek currently runs underground 1000 feet in a pipe along Avondale. It will be "daylighted" to a swale (grassed ditch), the stream water -- oxygenated, filtered and re-routed away from Avondale wastewater before draining into Bear Creek - improving stormwater treatment and Bear Creek water quality.
6. The wetland bank will be used mostly for wetlands paved over by roads, high schools, and trails and will not replace on-site mitigation. Victor Woodlasnd, wetland banker partner, has a 10 year commitment to restore banked units. Within 20-years the wetland bank will be endowed in perpetuity to the Cascade Land Conservancy. The wetland bank will be restored with trees and shrubs native to wetlands. Man-made ditches will be removed. Trails should be pervious (Dick Schaetzel) and secondary to the flow of the creeks (Ed Schein). Bear Creek is a channel. Off channel rearing of fish is superior and more likely after restoration. (Bill Shields).
7. Aegis Living residents do most of their driving during off-peak hours so they are a good business for busy Avondale Road.
8. 10% of the units will be set aside for affordable housing for workers and possibly residents.

What appears to be "unfinished business" or issues of concern are, as follows:

• "Avondale Green Homeowners Association" is not opposed but they want a 2nd exit onto Avondale and a U-turn for safety.
• a small triangular neighborhood next to Aegis is unhappy with the Aegis Road going next to their neighborhood.
• Susan Wilkins duly noted concerns about our dated 1998 FEMA Flood map. Staffers agreed that mapping work needed to be done. Susan presented photos of the proposed Aegis tennis courts in the 1998 flood plain.
• Jill Richardson had duly noted concerns about pesticides.

The wetland bank is highly regulated, but the City of Redmond has final say via permitting and the debit side of banking. The Dept. of Ecology and Army Corps of Engineers are next in line. The EPA has some jurisdiction, as well. City Environmental planner, Cathy Beam, and Planner Jeff Churchill worked hard on this project and did a great job.

Project review and rezone are almost finalized. The Department of Ecology will consider a Public Hearing - by request only.

** The photograph above is of cow pasture along Bear Creek. It may be Keller Farm. This photo is on the front cover of Redmond Historical Society's new soft-cover titled "Redmond Reflections - from settlers to software", written by Naomi Hardy. To order write redmondhistory@hotmail.com.
Redmond City Technical Report of the Aegis project is HERE

FACTOIDS - a 225 acre wetland in Duval was the first wetland banking site in WA. Washington State Dept. of Transportation (WSDOT) owns 5 wetland banks. Two banks are in Skagit county and one in Eastern Washington. >> wetland banks are booming across the country but are limited in Washington State by stronger regulations.

Planning commission's final recommendations to Council of 9/28/07: http://www.redmond.gov/insidecityhall/citycouncil/CurrentAgenda.asp

Walk In The Park -- Marymoor

If you are interested in soccer, baseball, cricket, flying, regional trails, the largest off-leash dog area in the state, a velodrome, climbing rock, rowing, birding, King County’s cultural heritage, gardening, a family picnic, concerts, or movies, Marymoor Park is the place for you!

Of course my favorite activity at Marymoor Park is visiting the 40-acre off-leash dog park. My companion dog, Sadie, knows this as "doggie disneyland". On a sunny weekend, hundreds of dog lovers will gather in the off-leash dog park to share "dog stories". And of course, folks can buy a favorite gourmet coffee beverage and a doggie treat from my friend at Cara Mia -- a bright green mobile espresso cafe.

The off-leash dog park is well maintained by King County and S.O.D.A. volunteers.
S.O.D.A. is a non-profit organization formed to provide on going support and stewardship for the Off-Leash dog exercising areas at Marymoor Park in Redmond, Washington and Grandview Park in SeaTac, Washington.

Marymoor Park is so popular, it has its own website and includes a MSN Wi-Fi service. Last year, I heard an outdoor concert at the amphi-theatre at Marymoor. Los Lonely Boys rocked the park!

Our twin daughters took us to see Cirque du Solei at Marymoor, 2 years ago. In May 2006 our daughter Allison was pregnant, so the event staffers let us park right up close to the entry gate. A week later our first grandson, Conor, was born! I read in the Redmond Reporter that the international sensation returns to Redmond April 24- May 25.

Some eight years ago, we attended WOMAD (World of Music, Arts & Dance sponsored by Peter Gabriel) at Marymoor. We discovered a superstar world-music band called Afro Celt Sound System. We also heard Ravi Shankar and his students, performing traditional Indian Classical music. My wife especially enjoyed the drum grotto, where we found a community of drummers.

In 1990, the Goodwill Games, held a bicycle race at the Velodrome located at Marymoor. This was very exciting to watch, as the international racers pedal really, really fast.

Marymoor Park is the gateway to the regional trail that follows the Sammamish River north to Bothell, where the trail continues around Lake Washington, and ends at Gas Works Park, on the northern shore of Lake Union.

Friends of Marymoor Park
Marymoor Velodrome Association
Washington State Bicycle Association

Richard Morris, co-author

Ed. Hill Neighborhood