Washington school districts allowed to isolate children in padded cells and tie their limbs together

Washington school districts allowed to isolate children in padded cells and tie their limbs together

November 30, 2012

By Liv Finne
Washington Policy.org

KOMO News and Q13 Fox are reporting that schools in Washington are using padded cells to isolate special needs children who misbehave. Responding to public outrage, the Longview School District just announced it will discontinue the practice. The Burlington School District defends use of this practice.

Washington state administrative rules explicitly permit schools to isolate children in padded cells, which have holes poked in the top for ventilation. Four WACs (administrative rules) define “aversive interventions” and the conditions for their use by school officials. WAC 392-172A-03130 subsection 3 describes conditions for “binding or otherwise attaching the student’s limbs together or by binding or otherwise attaching any part of a student’s body to an object.”

According to TASH, a national grass-roots organization for disabled children:

"Nursing homes declared these practices outdated and unsafe in the 1980s, and medical and psychiatric care facilities followed suit over the past two decades. They recognized there were no benefits to restraint and seclusion, and no amount of medical training and expertise was adequate to alleviate the risks to both patients and staff. There is no therapeutic benefit for restraint and seclusion. So why are school administrators continuing to defend such practices?"

Padded cells, binding together the legs of children, and tying children to objects is officially permitted in Washington’s schools.

Repealing these shameful WACs could be the first accomplishment of the new legislature.

http://www.washingtonpolicy.org/blog/post/washington-school-districts-allowed-isolate-children-padded-cells-and-tie-their-limbs-toge

 

There are no known or alledged reports of this behavior in LWSD.  B.Y. 

Historical Redmond is in a Miniature Exhibit

Historical Redmond in Miniature Exhibit

In honor of City of Redmond’s Centennial celebration, the Redmond United Methodist Church will be hosting an Historical Redmond in Miniature Exhibit in its chapel which was built in 1906. The church has teamed up with the Emerald Heights Retirement Community to create a display depicting the original church building and other historic structures in Redmond. Jim Easley started the miniature project at Emerald Heights Retirement Community as part of a garden train display. One of the historical models is of the original Methodist Church Chapel. With help from the Redmond Historical Society and the City of Redmond, several other models have been included in this exhibit. They include the Leary Way railway station, the Marymoor windmill, and the first library.

The public is invited to view the display on Saturday, December 1, December 8, and December 15, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., at 16540 NE 80 Street, Redmond. The Redmond United Methodist Church is the oldest faith community in Redmond, tracing its history back to the pioneer days of 1896. For more information, call 425-883-7553, or go to http://redmondumc.org/#/calendar/centennial-exhibit

By Doris Schaible
Community Relations
Redmond Historical Society

Construction Collapse injures Four city employees

Construction Collapse Injures Four, Causes Road Closures

Redmond, WA – Collapsed construction equipment on 164^th Ave NE in Redmond caused four employee injuries and road closures. 
 
At 11:45 a.m. this morning the Redmond, Bellevue, Kirkland, and Woodinville Fire Departments responded to a construction site where a section of the formwork being used to support the floor during a concrete pour collapsed.

Four employees were treated at local hospitals for injuries. Fire crews and structural engineers entered the site to search for employees who may still be in the area but it appeared to be cleared.

All lanes of traffic are now open.

###

Jim Bove

Redmond Police Department

Community Outreach Facilitator

8701 160th Ave NE

Redmond, WA 98052

(425) 556-2545

An Evergreen holiday for you, and second life for the tree

The holiday madness will consume us for the next month. However, there are at least three easy ways (you pick!) to take one of the most popular traditions of all – the Christmas tree – and make it even more meaningful to you AND for our open spaces.

Give your tree the gift of life after the holidays
King County Parks has partnered with Swansons Nursery to offer a living tree program that will ensure your tree’s life will continue well beyond the holidays and for many years to come in one of King County Parks’ protected open spaces. Plus, planting trees can help restore salmon habitat by reducing water runoff – who doesn’t want that gift under the tree?!

Here’s how it works: Three easy ways to make your holidays evergreen
1. Purchase a living tree at Swansons Nursery – For every living Christmas tree purchased, Swansons will donate a native plant for volunteers to plant at a King County Park restoration site. You take the tree home and plant it in your yard (see care instructions) – OR -
2. Donate your living tree - Choose one of the species available for your living holiday tree signed with a “Donate This Tree.” After the holidays, simply return your tree to Swansons Nursery and it will be added to trees destined for the restoration project. Interested in planting the donations with your own hands? Volunteer to join a scheduled living tree planting event.
3. Show your support with a gift - Purchase a $5 “Sammy” medallion at the cashier during your visit and Swansons Nursery will donate another plant towards the restoration effort. Hang the ornament on your tree at home or give it as a gift!
__________________________________
There you have it: Three truly easy ways to add a meaningful twist to your holiday season! How will you decorate your living tree? 

Courtesey of King County Blog

LWSD STEM School construction progress

Construction progress of the LWSD STEM School as of November 25

The STEM school is located in unincorporated East King County.  Photo courtesy of STEM school newsletter.  

Redmond Firefighters announce 2012 neighborhood Santa schedule

December 7 - 23

Santa Claus is Coming to Redmond!

Redmond Firefighters Announce 2012 Neighborhood Schedule

Redmond, WA – The Redmond Firefighters Union Local 2829, IAFF, will be assisting Santa Claus again this year as he makes his tour through our Redmond Community sharing good cheer and holiday joy. Santa will be transported in the Union's antique fire truck with his very colorful helper, Buddy. A new tracking application will allow users to follow Santa’s route in real-time, using the web, tablets or smart phones. The new application will be available online beginning December 3^rd at www.redmond.gov/santa

Santa and his volunteers will be accepting non-perishable food donations and unwrapped toys for Hopelink. The Firefighters Union will also match cash donations up to $500. Santa and his elves will be in the locations listed below, though Santa may need to cancel a night's trip due to heavy rain, snow or mechanical problems (the antique fire truck isn't as reliable as Rudolph):

December 7 (Friday): Village at Overlake Station, Southeast Redmond
December 8 (Saturday): Viewpoint North
(11am-2pm Toys for Tots at Bartell Drug in Bella Botega)
December 9 (Sunday): Rivertrail Neighborhood
December 10 (Monday): Central Education Hill
December 11 (Tuesday): West Education Hill
December 12 (Wed.): Trilogy (6:30), 2 stops in Redmond Ridge afterward.
December 13 (Thursday): North Education Hill
December 14 (Friday): Grasslawn East
December 15 (Saturday): Grasslawn West
December 16 (Sunday): East Education Hill
December 17 (Monday): Rose Hill South
December 18 (Tuesday): Union Hill
December 19 (Wednesday):Viewpoint South
(Santa at the Kindering Foundation 9:30-11:30 am)
December 20 (Thursday): English Hill South
December 21 (Friday): Downtown Redmond
December 22 (Saturday): make up night if necessary
December 23 (Sunday): make up night if necessary

Please join us as we pass through your neighborhood and consider making a donation for those in need. On behalf of your Redmond Firefighters and Medic One Paramedics, we wish you a safe and Happy Holiday Season! For more information call 425-556-2200 or visit http://www.redmond.gov/santa

# #

Neighborhood training in Northwest SEED's Solarize campaign

 

I wanted to let you know about an upcoming training for neighborhood leaders who are interested in launching a “Solar Group Purchasing” campaign. 

I realize the workshop is actually happening in Bellevue (!) but we’d love to have representation from Redmond neighborhoods too!

Background

Over the past year, Northwest SEED has led Solarize campaigns – neighborhood group purchase campaigns for solar - that have resulted in over 140 new solar installations in Seattle, $3.8 million in solar purchases, and the creation of 14 permanent green jobs. Now, we are sharing our success with other communities to teach them how to run their own Solarize projects, to spread the economic and community benefits beyond Seattle.

With the City of Bellevue and Puget Sound Energy, Northwest SEED will present “Solarize U” on Saturday, December 1st at the Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center. The training will give participants the tools and information to lead a solarize campaign in their own community.

Register online at http://solarizeeastside.eventbrite.com.

The training cost of $25 includes a catered lunch.

Please let me know if you have any questions, and pass this invitation and attached flyer along to anyone that may be interested in attending!

Thanks in advance for your time,

Linda

PS: A video explaining the Solarize concept is here: https://www.eeremultimedia.energy.gov/solar/videos/purchasing_solar_collectively_solarize

Linda Irvine

Project Manager

Northwest SEED

1402 3^rd Ave. Ste 901

Seattle, WA 98101

www.nwseed.org

206.267.2215

11/12: Lake Washington Institute of Technology Adds New Engineering Technology Degree

LWIT Adds New Engineering Technology Degree

Kirkland, Wash.:Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWIT) is pleased to announce its newAssociate of Applied Science Engineering Technology degree. This degree is designed for students wholike the practical application of engineering, and who would benefit from a hands-on, rather than more theoretically-inclined, program. It can lead to employment in as little as two years, or can provide a solid foundation for further studies in engineering and technology.

“Our Engineering Technology AAS degree has been designed for those students who really enjoy seeing the fruits of their labor – working with their hands, developing new designs, diagnosing and fixing problems” said Dr. Steve Addison, Acting Dean of New Programs at LWIT. “Traditional engineering programs focus on theory with relatively little time available for practical work. We’ve designed our program to really emphasize the application of engineering principles to real-world problems. We’ve developed an innovative approach that directly relates math and computing to the problems that are being taught in engineering classes to ease obstacles to learning math. And, unlike larger institutions, our classes are small, and tailored to help each student stay motivated, and succeed.”

All students in the Engineering Technology program take a series of core engineering, math and computing classes that provides the fundamental knowledge all engineers require to be successful in the workforce. To complete their degree, students then choose one of four focus areas: manufacturing, electronics, biomedical engineering, or renewable energy. Graduates can either enter the workforce immediately, or use the AAS degree as the foundation for a baccalaureate degree.

Demand for AAS degree graduates in engineering and technology is at an all-time high. At aSenate Aviation Subcommittee hearing with Senator Maria Cantwell last July addressing aerospace worker shortages, a Boeing representative testified that skilled employees with associate’s degrees in such fields as engineering technology are in short supply, with this situation becoming more critical as the manufacturing upswing in the Puget Sound Region expands. As a result, salaries for positions such as technicians, product designers, test engineers and the like are on the rise.

Jobs for engineering technicians pay well. According to the Workforce Development Council of Seattle and King County, engineering technicians are making $21 to $36 an hour. LWIT’s Engineering Technology degree opens the door to a rewarding and high-paying career.

Those interested in more information can visit lwtech.edu/engineering_technology, call 425-739-8300 or email engineering@lwtech.edu.

Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWIT) is a broad-based polytechnic college offering instruction in 36 areas of instruction toward a spectrum of more than 100 bachelor and associate level degrees and certificates designed to give students the latest cutting edge skills relevant to today’s workplace. For information and news about LWIT programs, please visit lwtech.edu/press_room.

Redmond High PTSA Community Digest

FACING FAMILY TROUBLES? If you are a parent whose child is challenged with drugs, poor behavior, or other problems, the Sammamish Plateau Parent Networking Group invites you to two free workshops featuring Bill Dean, who has assisted hundreds of families to become whole and healthy through his coaching. Workshops will be held on November 26 at the EX3 Teen Center (825 228th Avenue NE, Sammamish) at both 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM and 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM. For more information, contact Cherry O'Neill.

BENEFIT CONCERT. At the Old Redmond Fire House on November 30th - the concert is benefiting a nonprofit organization called Village Schools International. This organization provides funding for students in Africa by building schools, providing scholarships, buying textbooks, etc. Cost is $7.

1912-2012 CENTENNIAL FINALE. Celebrate the Centennial by day on Saturday December 1, 12-4pm at the City Hall Campus. Celebrate Redmond's pioneering spirit. Enjoy festivities, food, and entertainment from Redmond's past, present and future. Enjoy Cultural Entertainment, Kids Activities, Holiday Craft Market, and Interactive Historical Displays.

1912-2012 CENTENNIAL & REDMOND LIGHTS. Celebrate Redmond Lights by Night on Saturday December 1, 4-8pm at the City Hall Campus. Celebrate Redmond's diverse cultural traditions of the winter season with festivities, food, events and entertainment from around the world. Enjoy the Tree Lighting, Luminary Walk, Light Displays, Entertainment, Kids Activities and Refreshments.

SEMI-FORMAL SNOWBALL BALL. Come to the Old Fire House Teen Center for the YABA's Semi Formal Snowball Dance on Friday, December 14th at 8pm. Cost: $7/$5 if dressed up. Bring $10 or a toy to benefit Hopelink.

REDMOND RECREATION GUIDE NOW AVAILABLE. Interested in taking classes this winter? The City of Redmond offers everything from dance to pottery. Learn about class opportunities at the Redmond Recreation Guide.

Winter lights at city hall

Winter Lights at city hall / John Reinke

Mayor Marchione proclaims November 24 "Small Business Saturday"

Shop Saturday to Support Redmond Businesses

 

Mayor’s Proclamation presented at Council Tuesday, November 20, 2012.

Redmond, WA – Mayor John Marchione will proclaim November 24, 2012, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, as Small Business Saturday in Redmond.
 

Between Black Friday and Cyber Monday sits Small Business Saturday, a day dedicated to celebrating the small businesses in our community. The City of Redmond has signed on to participate in the national campaign started by American Express in 2010 which gives small businesses more recognition on the busiest shopping weekend of the year.
 

“By supporting Redmond’s small businesses, shoppers will boost our local economy and help create and maintain jobs in Redmond”, states Marchione. “I’m proud to support Small Business Saturday and I encourage all residents, employees and visitors to shop small on November 24 in support of our wonderful Redmond merchants”.
 

At the November 20 Redmond City Council Meeting, Mayor Marchione will explain that small businesses nationally represent 99.7% of all businesses having employees, they employ 50% of the employees in the private sector, generate 60-80% of new jobs annually, and that 99% of Americans agree that it’s important to have small businesses in a community.
 

To shop small in Redmond, find a directory of Redmond businesses and discounts at www.thinkredmond.com.

Odd Fellows Rings Insignia to adorn front facade again

Odd Fellows Rings Insignia Restoration and Reinstallation

 

Redmond, WA. - The restored Odd Fellows rings insignia will again adorn the front façade of Odd Fellows Hall at 7979 Leary Way. On December 4, 2012, Artech, Inc. of Seattle will reinstall the rings. The restoration process was coordinated by Tim Short, proprietor of Redmond’s Bar and Grill with support from the City’s Heritage Grant Program for the restoration, rehabilitation, and preservation of historic properties. The Heritage Grant Program provides funding to help support the long-term maintenance and preservation of Redmond’s landmark buildings and places including the Orson Wiley Stone House (The Stone House Café), Bill Brown’s Building (The Matador), the Anderson Park picnic shelter, and the historic building of the former Addi-Bon Café (El Toreador).
 

The Odd Fellows Hall is a designated historic landmark and is one of the most prominent wood frame buildings in downtown Redmond. This two-story commercial building is located near the center of the historic business district. Built in 1903, this distinctive structure served many purposes for the local community: meeting hall; fraternal lodge for the Redmond Eagles and then the Independent Order of Odd Fellows; performance and dance hall featuring the Les LaBrie Orchestra, the City’s first movie venue; commercial space for Edwardian Antiques; and now a dining and entertainment establishment for Redmond’s Bar and Grill.
 

As Redmond grew during the early 1900’s, it developed an array of economic, social, and cultural institutions commonly associated with the establishment of communities in the American West. Redmond’s Independent Order of Odd Fellows was established in 1923 and like most fraternal organizations, was a means by which residents could reach out and provide support to one another. Typical activities at the Odd Fellows Hall included holiday celebrations, Thanksgiving dinners, rummage sales, community dances, theatrical events, card parties and more.
 

For additional information regarding this historic landmark, visit http://www.redmond.gov/Government/HistoricPreservation/CityLandmarks or contact Kimberly Dietz, 425-556-2415 or kdietz@redmond.gov. For Redmond’s Bar and Grill, refer to http://redmondsgrill.com or call 425-558-9800. And, for Redmond history, contact the Redmond Historical Society at www.redmondhistoricalsociety.org and 425-885-2919.

The benefits taxpayers receive from EvergreenHealth

EvergreenHealth

EvergreenHealth King County Distict #2 assesses a small annual levy (.30/$1000) on King County private property owners to fund community programs for growth and and health and wellness. 

The total 2013 Regular Property Levy for EvergreenHealth King County District #2 was  $15,190,664 and is broken down into:  1)  Regular levy for Debt Service = $ 10,970,493.65 and 2) Levy for Community Programs = $ 4,220,170.45.  

So what do we get for our money?    Laurene Burton, Administrative Director at EvergreenHealth (Hospital) provided the following answers:                                            

"2013 Bond proceeds of $10,970,493.65 are used to pay costs of acquiring, construction, remodeling and equipping the Districts’ health care facilities and have been used for:

· Constructing the Evergreen Surgery and Physicians Center (ESPC)
· Acquiring equipment and furnishings for the ESPC
· Completing improvements to the inpatient services areas within the hospital
· Remodeling certain areas of the hospital
· Acquiring and installing equipment
· Acquiring and installing clinical and administrative IT
· Constructing the DeYoung Pavilion
· Acquiring equipment and furnishings for the DeYoung Pavilion.

2013 Levy for Community Programs totalled $4,220,170.45 and pays for the following: 

Community Advisors: A group of Board appointed individuals representing the public hospital district region that provide input to Evergreen and the Board of Commissioners. $17,000

Community Health Education: Offers comprehensive outcome-based programs for individuals within our community aimed at promoting health, wellness and injury prevention within the framework of the organization's strategic goals, leading health indicators and objectives. $554,499

Community Healthcare Access Team (CHAT):Healthcare Access: Supports clients facing barriers to accessing healthcare services. Needs are assessed by social workers and clients are connected to financial, social and primary or specialty health resources in the community. $382,426

Northshore Senior Center: Programs that receive funding: Evergreen Enhance Wellness Program and Adult Day Health. In addition funding to support Senior services in Kirkland provided by NSC. All programs provided mental health support for older adults and may decrease length of hospital stay.$127,500

Senior Health Specialists: A dedicated healthcare team providing specialized complex care for elders who are frail and have multiple medical conditions, including expert assessment and treatment of dementia with behavioral health problems.$1,471,000

Community Grief and Bereavement:Professional bereavement staff supports Evergreen patients, staff, individuals and families in the community facing anticipated death and/or following the death of a loved one. Services include consultation, counseling, education, referrals and support groups, including support to children and teens, sudden traumatic and perinatal loss. $140,000

Healthline: Healthline is a multi-service department of providing 24/7 nurse triage, physician referrals, class registration, centralized scheduling along with additional support services for various hospital departments.$1,724,000

City of Kirkland: The Kirkland Senior Council provides advocacy for the senior population and distribution of educational materials; Kirkland Steppers is an organized physical activity program for seniors. $8,000

Community Health Initiative: Working with Lake Washington, Northshore and Riverview School Districts, establish immunizations programs for underserved children. $15,000"

 

Send your ideas for community health programs to LHBurton@EvergreenHealth.com

By Bob Yoder

UPDATED EDITORIAL: The LWSD School Board needs to be more assertive on overcrowding policy

UPDATED EDITORIAL:  According to Lake Washington School District BY-LAWS,  "The job of the Board is to represent the citizens and to lead the organization by asking critical questions and by determining and demanding appropriate and excellent organizational performance." 

School Board of Directors are elected officials and are each authorized a $4,800/yr stipend to work with due diligence to represent their constituents and lead the Administration.  They presently waive their pay.  This self image of volunteerism mitigates their over-sight of our District Superintendent and accountability to their constituents.  Though improving, the Board is not "demanding excellent organizational performance" especially of late, when it comes to overcrowding and facilities planning solutions.

Infrastructure policy plans to limit portables are still not aligned with population growth and problems passing future levies could result.

Levy funding policy, re-boundary policy, facilities planning policy, reconfiguration policy, and regional feeder school adjustment policy are prime examples of when the BOARD's voice and active representation and administrative oversight is expected and could use improvement

The Lake Washington School District has 98,987 registered voters. Yet, when the KIMBALL BOARD "asked the community" in 2005 if they should run a bond to completely overhaul and rebuild the schools only 427 citizens responded. Community involvement in the decision making process reached at a low point under KIMBALL. The PIERCE BOARD needs to "lead the organization" (By-Laws) with an updated Decision-Making Policy to involve the greater community.

"Community Involvement in Decision Making Policy" code was adapted 12/2/74, last revised May 7, 1990 and is over twenty-two years old. The Board and Superintendent needs to update these governance policies to be more effective and accountable.

By Bob Yoder 

Lambert leadership on county budget focuses on savings, human services and criminal justice

Kathy Lambert

Lambert leadership on county budget focuses on savings,
human services and criminal justice

Responsible budgeting maintains AAA credit rating

The Metropolitan King County Council this week adopted a $ 7.6 billion King County Budget that meets current challenges and makes strategic investments that prepare the County for the future.

“This budget emphasizes responsible fiscal management that maintains our credit rating at the highest AAA level, which gives us the best credit rating,” said Councilmember Kathy Lambert, Vice Chair of the Budget Leadership Team. “A high credit rating saves the taxpayers millions of dollars in interest annually.”

The budget includes the $685 million General Fund Budget, of which 73 percent supports public safety and criminal justice costs.

“I am pleased we were able to keep most of the staff positions in the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office,” Lambert said. “It is important to preserve the ability of the prosecutor’s office to respond to criminal justice needs.”

The health and human services safety net received a one-time allocation of $1.3 million to support domestic violence shelters, legal aid, services for sexual assault survivors and housing services. Among agencies supported in the budget are Eastside Baby Corner, Eastside Legal Assistance and Hopelink.   Read More >>

Celebrate the Centennial and Redmond Lights on Dec. 1

Redmond, WA —Kick-off the holiday season by joining Redmond residents, businesses, and the community at large by celebrating Redmond’s Centennial by day and Redmond Lights by night! Both events will be held on Saturday, December 1, 2012. The Centennial Celebration will take place from Noon-4:00pm at the Redmond City Hall Campus. Redmond Lights will take place from 4:00pm to 8:00pm beginning at City Hall before proceeding down the Sammamish River Trail to Redmond Town Center.

In preparation for the Centennial time capsule, citizens are encouraged to donate items of interest or historical significance. Suggestions include Redmond High School class of 2012 memorabilia, Derby Days ribbons, or historic photos. For details, visit 100years.redmond.gov.   Read More >>

Swedish/Issaquah to Host 'Holidays at the Hospital' Community Event Dec. 1

Swedish/Issaquah to Host ‘Holidays at the Hospital’ Community Event Dec. 1

– You’ll Have a Jolly Good Time

ISSAQUAH, WASH., Nov. 14, 2012 – Swedish/Issaquah is hosting its annual ‘Holidays at the Hospital’ community event on Saturday, Dec. 1 from 9 a.m. to noon in the main lobby of the medical center (751 N.E. Blakely Dr., Issaquah, WA 98029).

The festive, three-hour event is a great chance for individuals and families to get into the holiday spirit. There is something for everyone, including a pancake breakfast, pictures with Santa, and lots of kids’ activities. It will feature:

A pancake breakfast

- Cost: $5 per person or $20 per family of six (infants are free). A portion of the proceeds supports Pediatrics at Swedish.

Visit with Santa and free photos

- Come get a free photo with St. Nick and decorate a keepsake frame.

Teddy Bear Clinic

- Have your kids bring their favorite stuffed animal or doll for a check-up.

Giant Gingerbread House

- Kids can help decorate our giant gingerbread house.

Ask-the-Doc

- Physicians will be on hand to answer any health and medical questions you may have.

Face Painting

- Our face-painting elf will offer some cool designs.

Book Drive

- We will be accepting new or used books for our pediatric patients.

No registration or RSVP is required to attend. For more information, visit www.swedishissaquah.org and click on ‘News and Events.’

Happy Holidays from Swedish/Issaquah! We “Ho-ho-hope” to see you Dec. 1!

Redmond Library Board has a vacancy - is busiest library in the KCLS system.

Redmond Library

Jamie Weber, Chair of the Redmond Library Board of Trustees, announced a board vacancy at the last Redmond City Council business meeting. The five member board meets on the first Wednesday of every month at 7PM at the the library.  The public is invited to observe. 

Jamie gave some excellent background information on the success of King County Library System (KCLS) of which Redmond Library is the busiest branch.  Redmond library had 45,000 visitors last year checking out 124,000 items.

KCLS is composed of 48 community libraries and services 1.3 million patrons.  In 2010, KCLS overtook New York City's Queens library system to be the busiest in circulation in the nation.  In 2011, "Library Journal" honored KCLS as "Library of the Year."  

Three areas of work make Redmond Library unique from any other library:

• The library has versions of all available E-Readers; and the Kindle format can be downloaded
• Non Profit and Philanthropy Resource Center (NPRC) offers non profits a data base to 2.4 million grants and 100,000 corporate giving programs
• Friends of Redmond Library volunteers contribute 400-500 hours raising $20,000 in book sales to support plant maintenance, summer reading programs, and Centennial events.  Donate your used books to the Friends at the library. 

KCLS is funded by state property taxes and "is facing a second year of declining revenues" according to Ms. Weber.  She said costs of staying relevant in the digital age are pressing, as well.  An opportunity for Redmond Library is their Redmond Library Blog where they post regularly.  

Reported by Bob Yoder 

EvergreenHealth Board of Commissioners approve a 1% Regular Property Levy Increase

EvergreenHealth King County Hospital District #2

This post corrects an earlier report that there would be no increase in the EvergreenHealth King County District #2 Regular Property Levy.  Rather, a 1% increase was approved.

On November 19th the Evergreen Health Board of Commissioners approved a 1% increase ($154,982) in the Regular Property Levy totalling $15,822,629.  The total King County Hospital District No 2  increase was 2.1% counting:  1) property tax revenue (1%), 2) amounts from construction, 3) improvements to property, and 4) increase in value of state-assessed property. 

Allocations in the Regular Property Levy increased to 30.76% for Community Health and Wellness in alignment with a reduction to 69.24% for Debt Retirement.   Over $500,000 was allocated to community health senior clinics and Monitor screening and education programs.  A 24/7 Nurse line and physician referral Healthline network receives levy funding as do "access teams." 

The EvergreenHealth Hospital Board of Commissioners meet four times per year in study sessions to review the levy as guided by a Levy Standing Committee.  They hold a summary Levy Study session two weeks prior to the Budget Educational Meeting and Budget Hearing (usually held the 2nd Friday of November.)

The Budget Hearing is a good time to give input on community allocations of the levy.  There appears a need in the community for more widespread training of Hands-Only CPR which EvergreenHealth could offer.   Submit your ideas to LHBurton@everhreenhealth.com

Reported by Bob Yoder

UPDATED: Help Audubon transplant plants from Group Health to Marymoor BirdLoop

Song Sparrow at Marymoor Park/MICK THOMPSON

UPDATED:  Over 450 plants were dug and stored in containers for planting on January 5 on the Marymoor Bird Loop.  Meet at Parking Lot G at 8 AM to install these valuble plants!

COMMUNITY INVITED TO DO DIRTY WORK

December 1 Event Will Save Plants at Group Health Site for Reuse at Marymoor

KIRKLAND — With the old Group Health Overlake campus in Redmond slated for redevelopment,
Eastside Audubon invites the community to a work party on Saturday morning, December 1, to salvage the native plants currently growing at the site.

At the Group Health-approved event, volunteers will dig up plants that otherwise would be destroyed to save them for replanting later in the winter on the Audubon BirdLoop at Marymoor Park. Eastside Audubon has been continually improving wildlife habitat at the BirdLoop since 2006 through monthly work parties.

No expertise is necessary to help with the native plant salvage; you’ll need only a shovel, work gloves, sturdy shoes, and clothing layers appropriate for the weather. Eastside Audubon project leaders will help identify which plants to remove and explain how to do it.

Coffee and snacks will be provided by Eastside Audubon as well.

Work will start at 8 a.m. and continue until noon. The Group Health campus is in the Overlake area of Redmond, at 2464 152nd Avenue NE.

To facilitate planning, Eastside Audubon asks that volunteers sign up in advance of the event by contacting Jim McGruder, (425) 822-8580, or tmcgruder@gmail.com. Details about where to meet will be given to volunteers

Eastside Audubon is the National Audubon Society chapter active in Bellevue, Bothell, Carnation, Duvall, Issaquah, Kirkland, North Bend, Redmond, Sammamish, Snoqualmie, Woodinville, and unincorporated East King Eastside Audubon works to protect, preserve, and enhance natural ecosystems and our communities for the benefit of birds, other wildlife, and people. We welcome new and experienced birders on our birding walks and field trips and in our birding classes. Visit www.eastsideaudubon.org.

Find Ushttp://www.facebook.com/eastsideaudubon
https://twitter.com/#!/EastsideAudubon

Charter Schools win in Washington state

Charter schools win in Washington state

November 12, 2012 

By Liv Finne

Saturday afternoon the Initiative 1240 campaign announced that voters have approved the charter school measure. Opponents refuse to concede until every vote is counted, but this morning the Secretary of State’s website shows that with 91% of the vote counted, Yes votes exceed No votes by 44,193, gaining over the numbers reported on Saturday.

Parents and those of us who care about public education have reason to celebrate. Washington will become the 42nd state in the country to allow charter public schools.

This is the result of the hard work of a broad coalition of people from both political parties, and of many independent people with no party affiliation. This broad coalition wants to help children trapped in failing urban public schools.

Now begins the hard work of making charter schools a reality. Although most of Washington’s 295 school districts will be unaffected, Initiative 1240 brings new hope to parents in communities underserved by existing inner-city schools. Charter schools are likely to open in places like Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Everett, Kent, Yakima, Tri-Cities and Bellingham.

No matter where they open, charter schools will give parents a way to provide a bright future for children eager to learn.

http://www.washingtonpolicy.org/blog/post/charter-schools-win-washington-state

Opponents not conceding charter-schools ballot victory: Seattle Times

Opponents not conceding charter-schools ballot victory 

Charter-school supporters claimed victory Saturday, but opponents refused to concede in the face of a vote tally that remains too close to call.

By Seattle Times staff

Charter-school supporters claimed victory Saturday, but opponents refused to concede in the face of a vote tally that remains too close to call.

As of 7 p.m., Initiative 1240 was leading 50.8 to 49.2 percent, the same margin as Friday. The measure continued to trail in King County, with 51.5 percent of voters against, but maintained its lead in the rest of the state. About 400,000 ballots are left to count statewide, with 130,000 in King County. The measure is leading by 43,860 votes statewide.

"We're going to wait until every vote is counted," said Marianne Bichsel, spokeswoman for the anti-charter group People for Our Public Schools.

But initiative supporters said they're confident they've won.   Read More >>

Read entire story (published Saturday, 10/10/2012, 6:53pm)

NAMIWalk raises over $205,000

NAMIWalkers with Mariner Moose walked
to raise awareness for mental health in Kirkland

NAMI Eastside wants to thank all of our sponsors and you, for contributing your time, energy, and support to this year’s NAMIWalk. Eastside Donations are still coming in but so far total more than $205,000. The estimate of attendees for the Walk is between 850 – 1000. Regardless of how many people attended or what the final amount turns out to be, I consider the Walk a success. Thank you for helping us continue our important work. We truly wouldn’t be here without you. I will post additional information as I receive it.

NAMI Eastside is the East King County, WA chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Our mission is to improve the quality of life of those persons affected by acute and chronic mental illness through support, education and advocacy.

Our members include families, friends, and people with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (manic depression), major depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, general anxiety disorder, ADHD, and others.

We sponsor free support groups and educational programs, and we advocate for improvements to our mental health delivery system in terms of access to care, standards of care, continuity of care, recovery, housing and rehabilitation.

Bear Creek's Honor Society food drive collects 8980 pounds.

Bear Creek Food Drive collects 8980 pounds.

Bear Creek’s Chapter of the National Honor Society
Collects 8,980 Pounds of Food for Hopelink

During the week of October 29 – November 2, The Bear Creek School’s
chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) sponsored a food drive for Hopelink. NHS
members posted signs and placed bins near all the classroom doors and then collected the
donations each day and delivered the food to Hopelink’s food bank in Redmond. The students
also organized a “Trick-or-Canning” event on the Sunday before Halloween and many Upper
School students went “Trick-or-Canning” on Halloween night as well, accepting cans of food
instead of candy. Additionally, students collected donations from shoppers at QFC in Redmond
Ridge. In order to encourage donations, the NHS sponsored a contest to see which class could
bring in the most cans per capita.

This year, Bear Creek students collected an amazing 8,980 pounds of food (valued at $13,470),
even more than the 8,809 pounds of food donated during last year’s food drive. The freshman
class collected an incredible 83 items per student!

About The Bear Creek School

The Bear Creek School, a leader in classical education for preschool through grade 12 in the
Pacific Northwest, offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum from a Christian worldview.
The Bear Creek School challenges students to reach their intellectual, emotional, and spiritual
potential through academics, athletics, fine and performing arts, community service programs,
and many other educational and social activities.

Computer virus grabs attention during busy school board meeting

I stumbled on the Lake Washington School District Board meeting running LIVE on Channel 26 at 7 pm last night.  (You can also watch it streaming online or in the district website archived recordings).  It was a full meeting with three principals presenting at the beginning.  Mead Elementary principal gave her overview as "the host school."  Principals from Eastlake and International recognized their National Merit scholar semi-finalists. 

A wicked computer virus circulating within and around the district computer system was the subject of the Superintendent's talk. It's called: GOBLIN MAL/xpadhg. The district has teams scanning computers and quarantining them. Progress was made over the weekend but "it's not clean yet" according to Pierce. Board member Carlson said infected thumb drives have become a huge reservoir of the virus. The district is issuing replacement storage thumb drives for the students and other alternatives.   Pierce said parents would be notified just as soon as the virus was eradicated. 

A 9th grader from Eastlake spoke up during Public Comment asking the Board to support American Sign Language (ASL) for the World Language Program.  Superintendent Pierce answered a survey is going out to parents asking them what languages they'd like see to expand current offerings. ASL is on the list.

Superintendent Pierce reported $92,230 in donations for the month of October.  Evergreen Healthcare gave $1300 to Juanita High for a white board.  LWSF made three donations to schools.  The PTSA's gave generously.

A Director from the Assistance League of the Eastside gave the Board and viewing public an update on "Operation School Bell" - a program that provides clothing to less fortunate students.  The Eastside chapter's program serves as a national role model throughout 22 states.  1500 LWSD elementary and middle school students are served.  The program started 20 years ago at Redmond elementary serving 60 students out of a portable.  It now partners with Fred Meyer serving 2400 students, including four North Shore schools and Bellevue School district.

The School Board conducted an informal First Reading of Executive Limitations (EL) revisions.  They were last reviewed about 10 years ago and a Second Reading is planned for their next Business meeting. 

By Bob Yoder

Redmond Safety Alert, by Redmond Police Outreach

Within the last week alone a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of British Columbia, Hawaii and Alaska received Tsunami warnings, and hurricane-turned-Superstorm Sandy claimed over 100 lives. Are you prepared for something like this?

The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is hosting its second REDMOND READY DAY on Saturday, November 17, 2012 at Overlake Christian Church (9900 Willows Road NE) from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.

The City’s “Redmond Ready” campaign encourages citizens to be trained in three areas: 1) First Aid, 2) CPR, and 3) Personal preparedness. Redmond Ready Day provides training in all three areas mentioned above with the only cost being a discounted rate of $14 for first aid and CPR training, regularly costing much more. The two-hour personal preparedness class is free. Knowing these skills can make the difference between life or death while in the jaws of disaster.  Read More >>

Pileated Woodpecker forages on apple in Education Hill

This Pileated Woodpecker was foraging on an apple in the backyard of a neighbor next to the Shaunhaessy
 Heights development on south Education Hill.  This uncommon bird is rarely seen in Redmond anymore.
Photo By KIM CASHON-SMITH, 11/2/2012

Redmond City Hall Ballot Drop Box is Open!

Redmond City Hall  - Next to the Library -  15670 NE 85th Street

24-hour Ballot Drop Boxes Are Open Now!

CAST YOUR BALLOT AT THE CITY OF REDMOND BALLOT DROP BOX!

CONVENIENT DRIVE-THROUGH! 

AVOID THE WEATHER!

SHORTER LINES THAN THE POST OFFICE!

NO STAMPS!

DROP BOXES CLOSE AT 8PM, 11/6.

There's another drop box at Crossroads Shopping Center, South Entrance
IF YOU MAIL:  One First Class stamp is required, postmarked by November 6.
Republished:  11/1/2012

Mayor Marchione proposes $3,122,000 in new "fire engines"

Mayor Marchone proposes replacing this Aerial Ladder Truck with
a new $1,200,000 Aerial Ladder Truck,  Council must approve.

Two shiny, new fire engines, a new aerial ladder truck, battalion vehicle, training vehicle, and two aid cars are in the mayor's proposed 2013-14 budget.  Total expenditures:  $3,122,000, not counting trade in value.

According to the fire chief and director of finance all the older equipment would be surplussed in storage behind the new vehicles except the Aerial Ladder Truck which the chief called "an anomaly" that would be sold in the aftermarket. 

Councilmember Myers asked if the reason for the request was owing to new technology or wear and tear?  The Directors were not very transparent in their answer but the Chief did say lowering maintenance cost and wear are the reasons.  Councilmember Tom Flynn asked if the existing vehicles had been fully depreciated; Director Mike Baily clarified by saying, "No." 

So, it looks like Fire personnel will have some shiny new equipment to use and show off in the community if Council gives the go ahead.  Costs are as follows: 

Aerial Ladder Truck - $1,200,000
Fire Engines (2) - $1,380,000
Aid Cars (2) - $430,000
Battalion vehicle - $64,000
Training SUV - $48,000

Do you think the community needs this new fire replacement equipment? 

Reported by Bob Yoder