Education Hill Neighborhood Association poll recommends a "neighborhood center" at Hartman Park

Letter submitted to the Mayor and City Council during "Items from the Audience." 

As a member of the Education Hill Neighborhood Association, (EdNA) I can’t thank you enough for the terrific job you’ve done building and maintaining our parks.  I want to encourage you to budget to replace the Hartman Pool (on Hartman Park) with a neighborhood community center.  Promotion of a neighborhood center in Hartman might dovetail with your downtown recreationcenter promotion…. and help to move it forward.   

Yesterday, a poll was taken on the EdNA site asking members what they’d want on the Hartman Pool site when it’s demolished.  

Of 573 association members. 95 members participated, including Metropolitan King County Council member Kathy Lambert.  In short, the poll and threads indicated over 70 of the members would accept, and most would want, a neighborhood center as long as the trees are saved.  Interestingly, only 5 members wanted a new pool.  I swim laps and wouldn’t mind giving it up to take a morning walk and meet my neighbors over coffee.    

Benefits of the Center:     

Lake Washington School District Board of Directors named "Board of Distinction"

Twenty-four school boards recognized throughout the State

Redmond, Wash. – The Lake Washington School District (LWSD) Board of Directors was one of 24 school boards in Washington state to be named a “Board of Distinction” by the Washington State School Directors’ Association (WSSDA).

The annual Boards of Distinction program honors school boards that demonstrate effective use of the Washington School Board Standards. These standards promote research-based governance practices that lead to high levels of student and district achievement, and help close the opportunity gap.

Award applicants submitted essays and evidence to demonstrate how they are putting the standards into practice. Applicants also shared evidence on how they were working to help close the opportunity gap. The applications were evaluated by an independent review panel.

The boards will be honored November 17 during the 2016 WSSDA Annual Conference in Spokane, Wash. WSSDA will also announce 2016 Boards of the Year winners.

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About Lake Washington: Lake Washington School District  is a high-performing public school district serving Kirkland, Redmond, and Sammamish, Washington. It is the third largest district in the state of Washington, with over 29,000 students in 52 schools.

Metropolitan King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert on the passing of Senator Andy Hill

Senator Andy Hill died of cancer this week at the age of 54

Metropolitan King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert is issuing the following statement on the passing of Senator Andy Hill:

“Our community has lost a tremendous man and leader. 

“Whether you knew him professionally, as a friend, or through his vast community involvement, he was someone who instantly earned the love of those around him. His dedication to serving children through his involvement in PTSA, coaching soccer, and tutoring was truly inspiring and will leave a lasting legacy that transcends generations. 

“He represented the 45th District and also represented everyone across our state as a Senator, with compassion, wisdom, and fairness as the hallmarks of his leadership. Our sympathies go out to his wife Molly, his children, his parents, and all who loved him.

“We are so blessed to have had Andy represent our district for the past six years. He will be missed by so very many.”

A "Prayer for Unity" on Election night at Redmond City Hall

On Tuesday, November 8th, this divisive election season will come to an end.  As the nation waits for a decision, we want to use this time to pray for unity. 

I want to invite you to a "Prayer for Unity" on November 8th at 6pm in the front of Redmond City Hall. This is a non-partison, non-denominational Christian prayer open to all.

Our goal is simple: Unite in prayer at Redmond City Hall to worship and pray for our community, nation and world. 

1. At 5:45, we will gather at the front of City Hall and have a simple acoustic worship. Common songs like Amazing Grace, My Country Tis of Thee. are songs we all share.
2. At 6:15, Light glow sticks (to symbolize Jesus, the Light of the World and the light that is in us.)
3. Pray as a community and in small groups.
4. At 6:45, end with a simple closing song of unification. 
5. Small groups are welcomed to stay and pray if desired until 8:00pm.

Please plan to park off campus because voters will be driving to the ballot drop-off box.

We do not want political or party focus at this event. We hope it is not a problem, and will politely ask anyone who is sharing or discussing election results to save that discussion for a later time after we dismiss.

Blessings,

Janet Richards
Board Member
Redmond Assembly of God

UPDATED: Should our neighborhoods be zoned for small commercial projects, like cafes?

grabbed from the Internet

Five years ago, Redmond City Council and city staff thoroughly studied planning policy options for creating "neighborhood commercial" zones in our neighborhoods.

Council decided the primary benefits of neighborhood commercial were: 1) fewer car trips to downtown centers,  2) neighborhood conveniences, and 3) neighborhood gathering places. 

Councilmembers Allen, Vache, Margeson and Stilin firmly agreed locating commercial within walking distance of residential concentrations and parks was important.

Preserving neighborhood character was paramount to council.  Councilmember John Stilin commented, "I'd rather have a neighborhood begging us to open up to development, than be pushed..." 

They all emphatically agreed (including Richard Cole) convenience stores, gas stations, and "loud" signage were completely off the table.  

In my opinion, in light of the rapid downtown urbanization, Council should take another look at neighborhood commercial zoning. When the Hartman Pool is demolished the vacant site could be an excellent location for a small cafe or community building, while preserving many of the trees. 

Bob Yoder 

UPDATED: EvergreenHealth is the State's only Five-Star Medical Facility, as rated by the "Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services"

 Among 112 hospitals in the US to achieve the highest possible national quality rating score.

Kirkland, Wash. – EvergreenHealth Medical Center earned a five-star rating in the most recent Hospital Compare overall quality systems rankings released last week by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS.) The health system has the only five-star rating from CMS in Washington state.

“We know that today’s consumers increasingly consider ratings and reviews before making purchasing decisions, and evaluating hospitals and health care providers has become no different,” said EvergreenHealth CEO Bob Malte. “To be the only hospital in our state to achieve this five-star rating is a reflection of the exceptional care and service that our providers, employees and volunteers deliver to our patients every day.”

Poetry inspired by Art, exhibit closes this Sunday

"The Jester's Dream" by Peter Juvonene

When I want solitude

sometimes I seek a crowd.

In cafe clatter and train station rush

I am one soul and stillness

wraps me in

cocoon threads.

It’s not like that in

my too quiet house

where the crowd of my thoughts

rattle and scrape

like broken shells

in the surf.

Poem by Eva Moon
Redmond Arts commissioner

"Ekphrastic Art Exhibit"  at VALA Art Center, Closing Reception: October 30, 6-8 pm

Updated: Barred Owl spotted on the Powerline Trail

Credit:  Ron Reiger

Susan and Ron Reiger, Education Hill neighbors, spotted this Barred Owl on the Powerline Trail last night. "He was near 110th Street close to where at the trail splits around the tower." Susan reported her story on the Chat Cafe facebook group.

Doreen Gallespie, another neighbor on Chat Cafe reported "Barred Owls moved into the PNW only in the last 15 years."  She gave this great link that fully describes the bird, even giving it's hoot.

https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Barred_Owl/id

"Barred Owls live in large, mature forests made up of both deciduous trees and evergreens, often near water."  Huh...I wonder where this owl lives?  Where's the closest "large, mature forest near water?"  A heavily forested wetland.is just west of Evans Creek Trail. Would they fly that far?  Hartman forested wetlands?  

City is Seeking Input for Redmond's Community Centers

REDMOND, WA - On October 24, the city launched a campaign to engage the community in a dialogue about the future of Redmond’s Community Centers. From now until spring 2017, the City will work with a neutral facilitation consultant (EnviroIssues) and with a community stakeholder group to lead a series of community conversations. The goal is to meet with seniors, teens, neighborhood associations, and cultural and civic groups; individual community members; and focus groups to explore the community’s wishes and hopes for the future of Redmond’s Community Centers. This process is coordinated with a larger strategic effort to evaluate and prioritize investments in all city-owned buildings.

Another one bites the dust

According to Chat Cafe facebook group, these trees were leveled today to make room for an "extended-stay hotel."  This project is south of Home Depot, and south of the cemetery near the almost completed Hampton Inn.    Photo credit:  Julie Meghj

City Code regulating tree retention

To inquire, comment or complain email the City Ombuds. at council@redmond.gov  or attend the 7:30 pm meeting on Tuesday, Nov 1st, City Hall  and comment or complain directly to the Council and Mayor -- you'll have 4 minutes.

The City's "Project Viewer"  ("Woodspring Suites")

The owner of this land has every right to build his project as long as he follows the City's tree retention and building codes.

However, I 'm still appalled the City approved the clear-cut of ALL 1000  trees on the Group Health site.  And, I was surprised Council member Kim Allen, a land-use attorney, didn't openly represent the people prior to the clear-cut. It's my understanding she campaigned specifically about her expertise and voice on these issues.  Comments are welcome.  

UPDATED: The City of Redmond's Vision Statement

The City of Redmond's Vision Statement:  "A community of connected neighborhoods with vibrant urban centers - inspired by nature, powered by innovation, and committed to excellence." 

Nature:  

Creeks, Sammamish River and Lake Sammamish (riparian & in-stream habitat)
Tree canopy, green ridges and hills   
Open space and wetlands (mostly developed except for Hartman, Keller and Evans Creek)
Distant mountains
Fish and Wildlife

A community of connected neighborhoods inspired by Nature:

Woodlands, trees, creeks, wildlife, river, trails
Green Redmond community forestry stewardship
Community and public works parks (BehindSafeway, Grasslawn trail,Smith wetlands,Ferral-McWirther's Macky Creek, Perrigo forested wetland)
Green, wooded neighborhoods protected from urbanization, neighborhood parks.
Outdoor recreation (Wildlife sightings, Powerline trail, Hartman trails, and BMX biking)
Art:  Sammamish River Trail pubic work art. Grasslawn Park, Community Centers
Culture:  biking, salmon, Bear Creek, tree preservation,Perrigo Springs
Neighborhood views of Mt. Rainier, the Cascades and Olympics 
Community health: Trail walking, hiking, biking, running, crewing, swimming, fishing

Vibrant urban centers:  Overlake and Downtown.  One Redmond Foundation.

Powered by innovation:  Microsoft and other technology companies. One Redmond

Committed to excellence:  Council, Mayor, Commissioners and other volunteers, schools

Bob Yoder, opinion

Opinion: Advocates for mental health - please vote for McBride, Kuderer, Valderrama, and Bryant.

A few of you may know, I'm advocating for the mentally ill.  Mental health conditions are generational in my family.

Last Thursday, I went to the NAMI Eastside Mental Health Legislative Candidate Forum. (Roger Goodman didn't show.)  Candidate Ramiro Valderrama was upset that 1 in 5 Americans (20%) have a mental condition, yet the State spends only 3% of their budget on mental health. In addition, Washington State ranks 48th in access to community hospital psychiatric beds. Mr. Valderrama called for systemic change. Please vote for Ramiro.

Johnathan Martin, a columnist for the Seattle Times participated in the forum.  He was very sensitive to those telling their story, as were Joan McBride and Patricia Kuderer.  Please vote for Joan McBride and Patty Kuderer.  Recently, Mr. Martin wrote an Opinion, "The Man who stands-up for mentally-ill patients on Western State Hospital's waitlist."  He concluded, "If anyone should go to jail for Western State Hospital's continued dysfunction, it's Gov. Jay Inslee."  Johnathan's Opinion is here:

http://www.seattletimes.com/opinion/the-man-who-stands-up-for-mentally-ill-patients-on-western-state-hospitals-waitlist/

According to.NAMI.org 30% of the homeless have a mental health condition.  Below, is a KING 5 story and video on gubernatorial challenger Bill Bryant speaking on homelessness and the mentally ill.  If you've never seen or listened to Bill, this is a good one (if the video works.)

http://www.king5.com/news/politics/bryant-blasts-inslee-over-problems-at-mental-hospital/323222084

See you at the polls!  :)

Bob Yoder

LWSD is now the 3rd largest school district in the State

Enrollment growth continues, to over 29,000 students

Lake Washington School District’s enrollment grew by 1,178 students last year, from 27,830 students in 2015 to 29,008 on October 1, 2016. Based on September counts, it appears Lake Washington is now the third largest district in the state, passing the Tacoma School District. Lake Washington now trails only the Seattle and Spokane School Districts in size. This year’s increase follows seven straight years of enrollment increases. This upward trend began in the 2009-10 school year after a decade of little change in enrollment. The average increase has been over 700 students each year, the size of a middle school or large elementary school. Enrollment growth is forecasted to continue. The district’s Long-Term Facilities Planning Task Force developed recommendations, which the district is implementing, to provide facilities for this growing enrollment. Source:  LWSD "Connections" newsletter

Volunteer Opportunity: Serve on new Community Truancy Boards

B, Yoder's note:  I'm attending the November 1st session at the Redmond H.S. library.  Anyone want to join me? 

Redmond, Wash. –  Community Truancy Boards are an approach to reducing student absences. Lake Washington School District is forming new Community Truancy Boards. The district seeks 40 community members to serve on two boards. One board will cover the Eastlake and Redmond areas. The other will cover the Juanita and Lake Washington areas.

The mission of Community Truancy Boards is to improve attendance and school engagement. They find positive solutions to the reasons for each student’s absences. Community Truancy Boards help families address obstacles that prevent students from attending school.

Washington’s truancy law, often called “the Becca Bill,” is intended to stop absenteeism before it becomes a problem. If a student does not attend school, the law requires the school district to take action. A new law requires Community Truancy Boards as a middle step before formal legal action. Each Community Truancy Board will be made up of educators and community members.

Interested volunteers must attend an information session to apply. Here is the schedule of information sessions:

• Thursday, October 27 from 5-7 p.m., Lake Washington High School library
• Thursday, October 27 from 5-7 p.m., Eastlake High School library
• Tuesday, November 1 from 6-8 p.m., Redmond High School library
• Thursday, November 3 from 5-7 p.m., Juanita High School library

Training sessions will be held in November prior to serving on a board. Volunteers will receive training in identification of barriers to school attendance. They will learn how to assess specific student needs and learn evidence-based treatments that have been found effective in supporting at-risk youth and their families. They will also learn about services available in the community.

The Community Truancy Boards will begin in January. Each session will include four to five volunteers. Upon selection, volunteers will be asked to participate in at least one Community Truancy Board session per month during the school year.

To sign up for an information session, contact Chris Robison at 425-936-1270 or via email at: crobison@lwsd.org.

EvergreenHealth Named One of America's 100 Best Hospitals in Five Specialties

Kirkland, Wash. – EvergreenHealth today announced it has been recognized by Healthgrades as one of America’s 100 Best™ hospitals in five specialties: stroke care, pulmonary care, critical care, gastrointestinal care and general surgery. These achievements are part of findings released this week in the Healthgrades 2017 Report to the Nation, which studies clinical performance indicators nationwide, offering patients data-based resources to make informed decisions about physicians and hospitals.

The Proposed City Budget - Up Close and Personal

 Council President Hank Margeson lives on Education Hill

Here's what I picked up on RC-TV during the Mayor's presentation of his Preliminary 2017-2018 Budget:

First, the Mayor looked back to the budget of 2015 - 2016 and was proud the city 1) partnered with Providence Health Care to build the Gabrial House (74 units of housing for Seniors.)  2) partnered with Metro to create the Redmond Loop and 3) partnered with the tribes and State to restore Lower Bear Creek for flood mitigation and salmon habitat improvements.   

As for the budget:  It will increase 3.6% from 2015/2016 for a total of $679M.  Of that, $132M is allocated to capital improvements....a $26M increase. The capital expenditures are identified as improvements to parks,trails, roads and sidewalks. I hope I'm wrong, but it doesn't look like any of this capital will go towards building or developing new parks along the East Redmond Cultural Corridor or elsewhere. There's always a slim chance, though?

The mayor proposes to add 8 new workers to focus on environmental initiatives.  One of the initiatives is to maintain the city's new investments in parks (not develop new ones.)  Mr Hays, the part-time homeless coordinator may given a full time job. Despite the addition of 8 new workers, employment since 2008 is actually reduced from 13 workers to 11. 

The mayor is asking for a 1% increase in property taxes, even though we will have an "ending fund balance" of 17%., I'm not sure exactly what "ending fund balance means - hopefully Council will clarify....perhaps at the November 15 budget Hearing?  

I'm glad the Mayor wants to beef up Safety.  He's proposing 4 new community police officers.  And, he wants to re-allocate 5 peace officers so we have added safety services for property crime investigations and improved evidence gathering.

As for Operating Fund revenues:  21% is property tax, 28% is sale tax, 13% is utility tax (up 2%) and 13% is development fees. Other sources are less significant by percentage.

I'm pretty sure the Mayor will get what he wants. He's developed a comprehesive, innovative and accountable budget process that Council can trust. .

Bob Yoder

"Ekphrastic Art Exhibit" at Redmond's VALA Art Center to end October 30th

"Ekphrastic Art Exhibit"  at VALA Art Center, Redmond Town Center, Wednesday - Sunday, 9-5 PM. the month of October!

Lake Washington School District SAT scores well above state and national averages

New test makes comparisons with past years difficult

​Redmond, Wash. – Lake Washington School District (LWSD) students continue to score higher on standardized tests than state and national averages. They scored on average 76 points higher on the SAT reading, writing and math test than the state and national averages in tests during the last school year.

However, because a new SAT was given starting in January 2016, the averages cannot easily be compared to previous years.

 “I am proud of Lake Washington students,” noted Dr. Traci Pierce, superintendent. “Our students score well above state and national averages. These results show that our students and teachers are working hard every day.”

A total of 1,103 students took the SAT this year. This number is down from a district high of 1,135 last year.

Critical Reading: LWSD 570 State 501 National 494

Mathematics: LWSD 583 State 506 National 508

Writing: LWSD 558 State 481 National 482

Interactive Map of Redmond Neighborhoods and the City

"MAPQUEST" INTERACTIVE MAP OF THE REDMOND NEIGHBORHOODS AND CITY

Don't miss the description of Redmond on the left sidebar!
Hotels
Shops

Food

Gas

Grocery

Coffee

Parking

Bars

Postal

and more!

Graffiti art in Redmond's Edge Park

Graffiti in Redmond's Edge Skate park -- a colorful slide show (it takes 3 seconds to load)

Bob Yoder

District 45th and 48th Candidate Mental Health Forum

NAMI Eastside's Candidate Forum is Next Thursday! Free and open to everyone!  The NAMI Eastside community believes that the topic of mental health should be a part of political discussions before this coming election. We are grateful to have Candidates from District 41, 45 and 48 in attendance.

Where North Bellevue Community Center 4063 148th Ave NE Bellevue, WA 98007 When Thursday, October 20th, 2016, 6:30 PM - 8 PM More: Click here for more information. Please RSVP to Lyndsay@nami-eastside.org

www.nami-eastside.org