Last night's performance by Redmond's poet laureate draws attention.

  

Comment: The short soundbites of poetry recorded by FOX 13 do no service to our poet laureate's literary art. I hope the city will produce a VIDEO that shows the true value and meaning of Rebecca's artistry. 

I really wanted to see our new poet laureate, Rebecca Merideth.  My wife and I rushed from our workout at the R.A.C. last night to get Soulfood Bookstore by 7:30.  We arrived just in time to hear Rebecca read a poem and talk about her new part time job as Redmond's poet laureate.  I was moved by her reading, enough that I'd like to have it in writing to share with my daughter.  Every seat was taken in Soulfood with a mixture of older adults and some children.  Other known poets read at open mic.

We noticed the Channel 13 Fox news van was just outside, but we missed their interviews.  Back at home, Pam shouted:  "the Fox news show is on!"  After some talk about the scarcity and cost of poet laureates in Washington Councilmember Hank Margeson was interviewed.  Rebecca gave answers to the program's purpose and meaning.  read the complete Channel 13 Fox story.

It was announced Rebecca is planning to read at Redmond High School.   She works M-TH so Friday may be the day for many of her public performances.   The Mayor had to attend a PTSA meeting at Einstein El. so couldn't make it.  Councilmember John Stilin (former Arts Commission Chair) was gone, preparing for "ONE NIGHT COUNT THE HOMELESS".  John is on the 1AM - 5:30PM shift.

By Bob Yoder

Seattle Times Newspaper announces Redmond's poet laureate

Photo by ERIKA SCHULTZ/ THE SEATTLE TIMES

Local poets asked to give voice to cities

The list of poets in the state who can claim the title of poet laureate is short. The state and the city of Tacoma have anointed poets laureate, while the city of Seattle does its own egalitarian thing with an elected poet populist.

But last year, the city of Redmond popped up on the list. read more

By Nicole Tsong

Steattle Times Eastside reporter

###

* FLASH:  Rebecca Meredith will be reading her poetry tonight (1/28), 7-9PM, Soulfood Bookstore on 15748 Redmond Way (next to Ben Franklin).

* INCLUDED in the Seattle Times story (arts/local) are related entries from my blog.  read them here

Editorial: Vote YES on Lake Washington School District's levies/bond.

Vote YES on Lake Washington School District levies/bond!

Editorial:  I'm going to vote YES for the school levies and bond this election because it's the right thing to do.  Number One:  schools are a great investment -- not just for our neighborhoods (and businesses needing a labor pool) but for our personal financial good health....more*

*The complete Editorial will be posted on my blog this weekend.  Will you be voting on Februray 9th? 

Information about the 2010 Lake Washington School District Levies and Bond is here.

By Bob Yoder
Editor, Redmond Neighborhood Blog

Reference Librarian Andy McClung asks for your support on February 9.

Andy McClung, Reference Librarian at the Redmond Library

Opinion:  Whenever I enter the Redmond Library, I usually find Andy working hard at the Reference Desk.  He is one of nine librarians charged with servicing hundreds of citizens a day.  Andy's also involved in the community.  I've seen him at the Saturday Market working the Redmond Historical Society booth.  In addition, he is assigned to the City's land use notice board in the library lobby.

Everyone has their favorite thing to to at the library.  I like to use the computers for my work, look at the personal finance newsletters, and have studied there with my 'lunch buddy'.   Andy says the summer children's reading program is just as popular as when I brought in my daughter 10 years ago.  He was excited about plans for a new adult reading program this summer.  Their new Library Blog is awesome.  I often share their stories and photos on my blog.  Have you seen them?

We talked a little about the Proposition One levy lid-lift on the ballot for February 9.   The county library system cut almost $2 million from the operating budget in 2009 and they need to restore the levy to preserve service levels.  Financial support isn't needed just for the Redmond library -- 43 other county libraries will benefit.  Funding for books, computers, and building maintenance would be restored with passage.

The levy is $32 on a home assessed at *$400,000.  That's only $2.70/month.  Hey, I can drink one less cup of coffee to support our library.  Can you?   Thanks, Andy, for all the work you do.

*The average assessed valuation in the L.W. school district is $517,000.

by Bob Yoder

LETTER: Lake Washington School District needs to stay within budget.

January 26, 2010
Redmond Neighborhood Blog
Letter to the Editor

Every day, families residing in Lake Washington School District must make financial decisions regarding their lives. What do I prepare for meals? How do I dress my children? Can I fill my gas tank today or must I walk or ride the bus to work? Can we take a vacation? Will my children pass their classes?

This year alone I have been asked to pay for PTSA Membership, a recorder for my son’s music class, subscription to Scholastic News, school photos, yearbook fees, lab fees, band fees, not including the fundraisers, parties and gifts for school. In addition, there are sports fees, field trips, uniforms and school supplies. These amounts totaled well in excess of $1,500.00 (for two children).

As families, we are being asked to yet again provide more money for a School District that refuses to stay within a budget and make cuts where cuts are necessary, yet continues to charge parents and families for “necessities for the education of our children”. Necessities such as USB drives for transporting writing assignments, glue sticks, and a ream of 20# paper.

I recommend that the Lake Washington School District resolve to practice what many of their families are living day to day: living within their budget and cutting back on items that are privileges and not rights. It is not necessary for my child to learn to play the recorder; it is practical to teach my child music appreciation, history and rhythm. It is not necessary for my child to read about current events with their own personal newspaper subscription; they must learn to read using phonics and spelling.

I wonder how many of our schools in the district would actually meet or exceed their AYP ("average yearly progress") if the schools and districts returned to teaching the basics instead of concentrating on meeting the challenges of the future. There will be little future for our children who cannot read, write or compute basic math problems.

Live within a budget and stop spending money you don’t have; a worthwhile lesson for all of us to strive for – including our local school district.

Sincerely,

Paige A. Norman
Redmond Resident, parent
16714 NE 97th Street
Redmond, WA 98052-3164
Paige.norman@verizon.net

Information about the Lake Washington School District levies and bond are here.

Readers are invited to submit Letters with your name on this subject.  Letters should be no longer than 375 words and addressed to redmondblog@gmail.com .   You may also comment below this post.  My editorial policy strives to attract  fair and balanced reporting of reader opinion; all Letters are welcome and appreciated.  Bob Yoder, Editor.

South 47 Farm to close

South 47 Farm to close

Last year, sales were down at South 47 Farm due to the challenging economy and then a period of nonstop rain kept people away from the normally well-attended harvest festival events in the fall.

"That was the last straw," says Claire Thomas, one of the founding members of FARM LLC and owner of the Root Connection. "It rained for three weeks straight which did a number on our sales. And everyone knows that in farming, the net profit margin is typically low. So if sales are down even just five percent, for example, it’s really hard to make a go of it. It doesn’t take much."

The decision to close The South 47 wasn’t easy, but for the members of FARM LLC, it made sense from a cost effective standpoint. read the complete story.

Written by Deborah Stone
"The Woodinville Weekly" 

Governor's budget could result in $7 million cuts again this year for LWSD

Governor’s budget could result in $7 million cuts again this year for Lake Washington School District

Redmond, Wash. – The Governor’s proposed 2010 supplemental state budget could reduce revenue by an amount similar to last year’s budget shortfall. 

A second budget, based on new tax revenues and federal funds, was recently proposed by the governor. The total impact on LWSD if the governor’s second budget were to be implemented would be $7.4 million.
The largest cuts in the governor’s proposed budget come in areas that impact class size. complete story

By Kathryn Reith, Communications Director, LWSD
kreith@lwsd.org

Comment:   Don't forget to mail in your ballot on the LWSD levys and bond  by February 9.

Cirque du Soleil returns to Marymoor in June; tickets on sale Sunday

Cirque du Soleil returns to Marymoor in June; tickets on sale Sunday

"The top international attraction Cirque du Soleil returns to the Seattle area this summer, right on cue, to pitch its Grand Chapiteau tent and perform its show 'Kooza' at Marymoor Park in Redmond.

The limited engagement runs June 3-27, but the company often extends its runs due to ticket demand.

Tickets go on sale Sunday." complete story

By Misha Berson
"Seattle Times theater critic"

L.W. School District has "Board Certified" teachers! Should you want to know their names?

Updated:  Physicians attaining the highest standard in their profession are considered "Board Certified".  Many people look for this credential when selecting a doctor.

Did you know professional teachers get Board Certified, too?   Yep!   Had I known this before, I'd make a point to sign up my child to their classes when possible.  Washington School District students are lucky.  The district has 135 full time Board Certified teachers - the 4th highest number in the state! 

During the January 11 School Board meeting, forty new Lake Washington district teachers from the Class of 2010 were awarded "Board Certification", by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.  Almost 10% of all L.W. professional teachers in the district are now certified.

It was thrilling to hear two of  my daughter's teachers recognized during the award ceremony - Ms. Shannon Leonard and Ms. Mary Marsh!!    I remember Lexie contributing some Bio-Chem research homework for Ms. Marsh's University of Washington board project.  Under Ms. Leonard's tutelage and from their close relationship since 6th grade, Lexie discovered a love for teaching.

The certificate training program lasts one year and takes up to 600 hours of work.  Teachers get a $2500 loan from the District to pay for the program.  Teachers must pay off the loan at completion.  Administration supports the program with district staff and grants "release days".

THE BOTTOM LINE:   Students, and especially those with high needs, respond favorably to Board Certified teachers.  It's been extrapolated that students taught by Certified teachers gain the equivalent of twenty additional school days in a year.  Do you know which teachers are Board Certified in your kid's school? 

by Bob Yoder
source:  LWSD video archives, January 11, School Board Meeting.

Building is picking up for Rick Burnstead,Inc and Camwest Development.

Updated (1/25):  Rick Burnstead's CAMERON PLACE natural open space (on the left) and Camwest Development's HAZELWOOD entrance and  partial view of the stormwater wetland facility (on the right). Click pics to enlarge.

OPINION:  This is my review of  three North Redmond  Burnstead, Camwest and Buchan developments on NE 116th Street and my evaluation of their financial soundness.  Disclaimer:  My family has lived for 24 years in a Burnstead tri-level, within walking distance to three Lake Washington District schools.

The local construction industry has been in a depression since the financial meltdown.  Even established local companies like Buchan, Camwest, and Burnstead have put off building.  You can almost tell a developers' financial health  by the progress of their construction.

Take a drive down NE 116th Street in North Redmond looking south and you will see.   Building has been delayed on Cameron Place, Hazelwood, and Sequoia developments, but Bucan appears to be hit the most.

• Buchan's fourteen lot SEQUOIA project is advertised for the summer 2010.  No foundations are poured.   It's not even listed on their website.  They've invested heavily in utility and stormwater infrastructure. As a buyer, I would question their financial situation.
• Clearing and grading of Camwest Development's HAZELWOOD was completed many months ago and building on this large parcel is finally underway.  Camwest's website lists six homes for sale (2000-2100sf, mid-$500's) with construction for the six to be completed by April and May.   The parcel has 76 lots; less than 10% are up for sale.  None are completed.        
• Rick Burnstead's thirteen home CAMERON PLACE community is moving along well.  Considering the economy, these 2800- 3000 sf  homes (high $600's) are selling at a fast clip.  Only six remain.  Burnstead has not had to compromise on quality of construction and landscaping like some other developers.  If I were buying, I'd  feel pretty secure that Rick Burnstead, Inc. is financially sound. 

My next piece is about about CAMERON PLACE'S creative landscaping and native, natural open space.

Pictures and story by Bob Yoder

Spotlight on Redmond Councilmember Hank Margeson

Spotlight on Hank Margeson,  Education Hill neighbor and Redmond City Councilmember

OPINION:  In many respects: Hank is Redmond.  You may pass him on the Power Line Trail walking his dog Dizzie.  Or find him umpiring a baseball game at Hartman Park, or touring Perrigo Heights development with concerned citizens.  One day, Hank tipped me about a black bear his friends saw at RHS.  Patti and Hank have donated hours to Farrel McWirther Park's Pony Club. 

I bump into Hank all the time.  We've met at the first Digital Arts exhibit, the Sonic Forest event, a Leadership Eastside conference and neighborhood meetings. Hank and Patti raised two children in LWSD schools; he worked the phones for past Levy Committees.  He cares deeply about our schools.  At Christmas time we always drive through their neighborhood and enjoy their manger scene and lights.

Hank's work output is phenomenal.  He has two "full time jobs" -  Safeco and Council!  Hank was recently promoted at Safeco (or is it now called Liberty Mutual)?  He was recently appointed Council Chair of Public Administration and Finance.  Two years prior, he took on the big job of chairing Planning and Public Works. Hank is also current Chairperson for the Redmond Disability Board.

On top of his regular job and Council work, Hank took the reigns from Concilmember Cole to represent Redmond to the Suburban Cities Association Policy Issues Committee (PIC) in 2009.  This is a huge job - by importance and work load.   PIC works on regional growth management issues.  In addition, this month  Mr. Margeson was appointed Redmond's "alternate" to the Cascade Water Alliance board.  Cascade Water is building a pipe to supply water from the mountains to eastside cities. 

How did Hank attain such heights of community leadership?    1)  He has a Masters in Public Administration, 2) is a baseball pal with Mayor John Marchione,  3) a four-year volunteer on the Parks & Trails Commission and 3) three-year volunteer on the Education Hill Citizens Advisory Committee.  4)  is on the Recruiting Committee of  "Leadership Eastside" and 5) was a Redmond West Little League board member.  He takes leadership positions in almost everything he does.

Hank Margeson's myriad of leadership experiences attest to his acumen for leadership and consensus-building on Council.  I'm posting his picture so you will recognize him around town.  Will you wave hi to Hank next time you see him?  I guarantee you'll be rewarded with a smile, in the least.  You can also watch Hank on Channel 21 TV Tuesday's, at 7:30pm or read the Minutes of his Finance meetings low on this side bar.  Contact Mr. Margeson at:  hmargeson@redmond.gov 

OPINION by Bob Yoder

LETTER - Must read for any parent and student considering a LWSD Choice school

The following insightful comment was posted by a reader under my 1/15/10 entry:  "Lake Washington School District has some really "choice schools".   It gives excellent advice to any parent considering a choice school: 

LETTER:  Many of these Choice schools require that students pass difficult entrance exams and provide teacher referrals before students are even allowed to apply to the schools. The schools then hold lotteries because the number of students who qualify ALWAYS exceeds the number of spaces available. The wait lists for these schools can be very long, and students are not allowed to put their names on more than one wait list.

Once a student is admitted, the requirement that "parents must arrange their own transportation" can become an immense burden if the student lives far from the school or bus drop-off point and especially if a family has an additional child or children who attend their home school. My family had a child in a choice school for several years and even with carpooling, I still drove 100+ miles every week just getting our kids to and from school.

There are only enough spaces in the choice schools for 15-20% of the students in any given grade. So for every 15-20 students who get a coveted admission to one of these schools, there are 80-85 who don't. But because the school district offers enrichment in the choice schools that supposedly any child could apply to, they don't bother to offer much enrichment in the home schools, especially at the elementary level. There are also higher administrative costs in the choice schools since the school enrollments are much lower while each school still has its own principal, support staff and facility.

When our children were just entering elementary school, we read about the choice schools such as ICS and Environmental and Adventure School and they sounded like they would be great learning opportunities, but the reality has been that between limited enrollment and excessive travel distance, they were not a choice for our children and may not be for many of the children in the district.

by Anonymous on 1/23/2010

If your family is "green-oriented" would you reconsider applying for the Environmental Adventure School (or any other Choice school) owing to the larger carbon footprint from commuting?  BY

January donations to Lake Washington District schools total $73,516,18

UPDATED:  Superintendent Chip Kimball announced donations of  $73,516.18 by groups and individuals to Lake Washington schools for the month of January.   He announces school donations at School Board meetings.  The complete donation report is found in the January 11 School Board video archive packet. 

The largest donation was a $20,000 anonymous grant to the Environmental Adventure School.  Environmental Adventure School is a Lake Washington District "Choice" school
Eight elementary schools received the most PTSA donations, totaling $36,378.  Three high schools received "Booster Club" donations for sports supplies or participation fees.  (Participation fees in LWSD are now $275 per sport per student.)   Kirkland Junior High recieved a $5,836.94 donation from Lake Washington Schools Foundation for a science grant.

Donors designated their gifts to various causes, including:  student council stipends, before-school reading programs. curriculum materials, field trips, playground and sporting equipment, professional development, library books, outdoor education, stage lighting, Math is Cool, dance workshops, and more. 

posted by Bob Yoder

Burke-Gilman Trail is reopening after landslide.

The Burke-Gilman Trail is reopening after a five-day closure caused by a landslide.

This is good news for commuters, dog-walkers and recreational enthusiasts traveling from Redmond on the Sammamish River Trail to Lake Forest Park --  The Burke-Gilman Trail should be reopened  by Thursday, January 21, according to a King County newsroom report. 


The trail has been closed since Jan. 15 when it was buried under an estimated 60 yards of debris.

The Burke-Gilman Trail runs more than 18 miles from Shilshole Bay in the City of Seattle to the City of Bothell where it intersects the Sammamish River Trail.   For more information about biking the trail between Bothell and Redmond see this TIMES article.

posted by Bob Yoder

Seattle Times announces more local news partners

Seattle Times announces more local news partners

The Seattle Times is expanding its partnerships with local news Web sites with the addition of eight more sites today. That brings the total number of partner Web sites to 19. (See the complete list, along with their latest headlines.) complete story.

--Seattle Times staff, 1/20

The Redmond Neighborhood Blog and Kirkland Views are two new Eastside web sites partnering with the Seattle Times.  I'm excited my readers and their contributions and comments will have wider exposure!   Bob Yoder

Bill Gates adding hundreds of followers a minute on Twitter

Bill Gates adding hundreds of followers a minute on Twitter

"Yes, it's really him. Bill Gates joined Twitter today.

....Whether or not it's a watershed moment for the popular microblogging service remains to be seen. But apparently lots of folks are eager to read whatever Gates will have to say.... complete story 

by Todd Bishop on Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Sammamish Slough Eagles, by Brian Byrne

After seeing the eagle pair on the slough this week, I decided to take my camera this morning. Got lucky. One of them was feeding on a goose carcass! The large male (i think) had found himself the goose carcass. Harassed constantly by five crows he enjoyed a good (possibly rare) winter meal. (Click on pictures to enlarge.)

photos and commentary by Brian Byrne

published in Facebook by Brian, 1/15/2010

posted by Bob Yoder with permission.

 

Redmond Cycle complains about the Downtown Park plan.

OPINION:  The owner of Redmond Cycle, Ernie Estrin, paid the local Reporter to advertise his unhappiness (1/15) with the City's planned Downtown Park.   Redmond Cycle will be demolished ~2012 according to Ernie's son.   Quiznos Subs, Windermere-Redmond, a Vet. hospital, foot clinic, a medical clinic and Redmond Shopping Mall. will also be leveled.  According to a business owner in Redmond Shopping Mall, the city gave the businesses 'generous walking papers.'

Ernie complained about the location for the Downtown Park.  Redmond Cycle was established in 1968, one block east of it's present location.  In 1972 the family purchased the gas station on 16205 Redmond Way and remodeled it into the present bicycle shop.   Redmond Cycle was the first bicycle shop on the Eastside, according to Ernie's son.  It played a big part in building Redmond's image as "Bicycle Capital of the Northwest".  Don't you think so? 

The shop is old at 38 years, but doesn't qualify as "historic".   Across the street from the shop is a 77 year old building that is the original Redmond Library.  It was built in 1933 and is presently the home of Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce.   The Chamber's historic building will not be impacted by the downtown park.  

by Bob Yoder

Redmond Ranked Best Places to Raise Your Kids: 2010

http://images.businessweek.com/ss/09/11/1117_best_places_to_raise_kids/48.htm

Redmond is ranked one of the best places to raise your kid in 2010 by Business Week. 

Affordability, safety*, and school test scores were given the greatest weight. The complete story on Redmond is here. 

The selections were limited to towns that have at least 45,000 residents and a median income of between $40,000 and $125,000.   The data we used included school performance, number of schools, household expenditures, crime rates, air quality, job growth, family income, museums, parks, theaters, other amenities, and diversity.

contributed by:  Kathryn Reith, Communications Director, LWSD.
announced by:  Councilmember Hank Margeson in recent Council meetings.

Governor Gregoire wants to create 40,000 jobs

http://www.docstoc.com/docs/document-preview.aspx?doc_id=22305755

Democratic Gov. Chris Gregoire wants to combat the state's high unemployment rate by drawing new businesses to the state and creating up to 40,000 new jobs this year

In her State of the State address Tuesday, Gregoire told a joint session of the House and Senate that she wants to attract $2 billion in capital investments to fuel job growth in fields like biotechnology, software development and renewable energy.   complete story as found on Seattle Times Online. 

Governor's policy brief

By RACHEL LA CORTE
Associated Press Writer
OLYMPIA, Wash. —
January 12, 2010

From blogging to drumming - teens will find classes at Redmond Teen Center

CITY OF REDMOND TEEN CLASSES AT THE OLD FIREHOUSE TEEN CENTER. There are some great classes being offered this winter. All classes will be held at the Old Firehouse Teen Center at 16510 NE 79th Street. For more information or to sign up for any of these classes, please call 425-556-2300, e-mail Chris Cullen, or download the Old Firehouse schedule.  (non-residents may apply).  For contacts and registration details go here. 

· Drumming 102: For Drummers with some experience and want to advance their skills. The class will review and strengthen standard rudiments. Will include Latin and Cuban rhythms as well as rock time signatures and introduction to syncopation.Ages 13-19
Tuesdays
Jan 19-Mar 9
6-7pm
R $28 / NR $31.

· Digital Audio Mixing 101: earn the basics on mixing your own tracks for diverse applications including electronic, hip-hop and gaming audio. Using the most accessible software Music Studio by Acid you will cover programming patterns, creating form and structure, editing for contrast and variation as well as an introduction to mixing standards in balance, EQ and panning. You will also cover an improvisational approach to building rhythm, bass, harmony, melody tracks and loops. Ages 13-19
Tuesdays
Feb 9-23
6 -7:30pm
R $35 / NR $42.

 · DJ'ing 101: In this class you will learn the basics and get hands on training about DJ'ing on turntables, CD players and new technology like Final Scratch and Ableton Live. Also get a chance to make your own beats. This class will provide a unique opportunity to learn some of the history and culture behind DJ'ing. Whether you are an acclaimed DJ or new to electronic music we will touch on everything you need to known to pursue a brilliant career in DJ'ing and Producing. Ages 13-19
Tuesdays
Feb 2-23
6-7:30pm
R $25 / NR $30.

· Teen Toastmasters:  It's certainly no secret that public speaking is a source of fear and stress for many. In this workshop we will discuss the essentials to creating an effective presentation, practice delivery techniques, and find ways to handle the jitters of standing in front of an audience, and being able to engage in the information you are trying to convey. Public speaking is an important form of communication, a key in getting jobs, and succeeding in academics. It certainly doesn't have to be scary and this workshop will help you make it fun. Ages 14-19
Mondays
Feb 8-Mar 8
6-7pm
R $15 / NR $18

· Get Started with Blogging: Learn to blog and impress the world with your brilliant thoughts, innovative ideas, and random musings! In this class, you'll learn how to setup and get started with blogging with your very own URL. We'll personalize your site with an awesome layout and cool features, learn how to promote your blog, and track your progress as the number of visitors to your website skyrockets! A collaboration of OFH and teen-run non-profit Student RND. Ages 13-19
Mondays
Feb 1-22 (no class Feb 15th)
6-8pm
R $25 / NR $30.

· VJ 101: Mixing Live Video: Get in on this amazing new performance technology. Northwest top Professional VJs (Video Jockeys) teach the art of manipulating video imagery on-the-spot to music like a DJ would mix music, just add the video. No video or DJ experience necessary for this class. Age: 13-19
Mon & Tue
Mar 22 & 23
6-8:30pm
R $85R / NR $99
 
From the desk of  Mary Bourguignon, Editor of  "Redmond Mustangs"

Eastlake scrapes by Redmond 64-57 - Video clip

Eastlake - Redmond Varsity Boys Basketball (game one)

64-57 Eastlake

opening tip

Redmond Mustang Boys Basketball Website

Sunday Comics, Quizzes and Stories from "the Oatmeal", locally popular

                                      http://theoatmeal.com/

Comics, Quizzes, and Stories by Matthew Inman.  The Oatmeal fears nothing, save for scurvy and head lice." read more.  Make sure you scroll down for all the entertainment.

I'm trying to get Redmond's Jeff Johnson to publish his local newspaper opinion cartoons online.  The Oatmeal will keep you chuckling until Jeff tools up.  I'll publish some Oatmeal on Sundays for a while, or longer, depending on your comments!



-- Discovered on a tweat from Tim McGrath -  Redmond's locally famous Rugby player and outdoorsman from "the Hood".

by Bob Yoder

Wii sales soar in December; Playstation 3 edges out Xbox 360 for month

Wii sales soar in December; PS3 edges out Xbox 360 for month

Nintendo's Wii game console sold a record 3.81 million units in the U.S. in December, eclipsing Microsoft's Xbox 360 and Sony's Playstation 3 during the critical holiday shopping season...more

Over 620 turn out for Stinky Spoke mountain bike poker ride!

For the faint hearted (like me) and the strong-hearted (like B.J. Eliason in blue) "Stinky Spoke" was one hoot'n fun ride.  The faint-hearted did lots of walking - some all the way home.  B.J. battled cold feet as he ended in the first wave of finishers.  I hope, so.  B.J. "spins" at the RAC three times a week and bikes with a heart and lungs 'on steriods.'  I just about fainted walking up that hill.  Where's my cardiologist?

Bicycling Magazine  listed "Stinky Spoke" one of the "best in cycling" events for January.  It's a hilly16 mile mountain biking ride mostly on Puget Power and Tolt Water Line easements - starting and ending at Redhook Brewery.  The only competition (besides yourself) is to end with a winning Poker hand from cards picked up along the way.   Last year about 127 entered.  This year, news of the event spread like a virus with well over 620 riding.  PEMCO, REI, Overlake Hospital, Crystal Mountain, Chelan Vacation Rentals, and untold other vendors joined Redhook in this mud splattering good-time fundraiser.

All this bike'n in the stink'n weather for a poker hand was about raising funds for Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center - Check them out at this link:  http://www.littlebit.org/   There will be a lot of happier and healthier kids from this event.  Thanks for the good time!  Keep the bikes tuned for Janurary 16, 2011!

by Bob Yoder
photos and story

Lake Washington School District has some really "choice" schools!

During this week's Lake Washington School Board meeting, Northstar Junior High was featured.  Northstar is one of eleven alternative "CHOICE" schools within the district.

Principal Nell Ballard-Jones and staff gave a presentation of their progress to the Board.  A few items of distinction were:  1) 97.3% of their 8th graders excelled in reading, 2) a third of the students in 8-9th grade attend high school to study math, music and world language.  Northstar is a high achieving school with above average WASL scores in the district and state.

Northstar was founded in1981 and is located closed near Lake Washington High School.  Students are not graded and classes are mixed in age with focus on the whole student.  As with all CHOICE schools admission is selective and with enrollment limits. A lottery and/or wait list is not uncommon.

Each CHOICE school appears to have it's own niche.

• Family Learning Center (K-12) enriches home-schooled students.  175 students.
• Stella Scolla (6-8) requires two years of Latin and students have the same teacher all day.
• BEST (9-12) takes 175 students behind in graduation requirements, like state reading and writing.
• International  Community (7-12) ranks 24 of top 100 high schools in nation by US News & World, with 380 students.
• Community School (1-6) is non competitive with 69 students.
• Discovery School (1-6) is safe and supportive with higher parent involvment.
• Explorer School (1-6) spend time on field trips with parent involvement.  72 students.
• Environmental Adventure (6-9) has 140 students.

Remaining choice schools are Futures School (10-12) and Renaissance School of Art and Reasoning (7-9).  You can find quick facts and web sites of all the CHOICE Schools HERE.  Parents must arrange their own transportation.

Do you know about these schools?  I didn't.  Do you think you have a child who would want to apply?  Many of them almost sound like "private schools" or "charter schools", but they are not.  CHOICE schools are supported by property owners within the Lake Washington School District.   For additional information contact:  kreith@lwsd.org. and visit the district web site at http://lwsd.org/.

by Bob Yoder

Youth Eastside Services (YES!) is a Jewel.

Patti Skelton-McGougan, Executive Director of Youth Eastside Services (YES)

YES!  Youth Eastside Services!   Patti Skelton, the Executive Director of this incredible and caring nonprofit gave me a fascinating tour of their Crossroads facility yesterday.  I don't know where to begin to tell you what an amazing resource Youth Eastside Services is for our community, our schools, our teen centers, our families, our children.

Patti has been the Executive Director for over 12 years, but the organization was founded 35 years ago and has grown to be the largest provider of youth and family mental health and social services in East King County!   A few of YES! family services are:  substance abuse treatment, sexual abuse counseling, depression and suicide counseling, mentoring school kids, and culturally-based assistance for immigrants.

Their commitment to our youth and parents is huge.  No matter what their financial circumstances, YES is committed to providing help to any youth or family regardless of ability to pay.   Counseling is offered on a sliding fee scale, based on family income.  Services cover the economic spectrum from homeless to affluent.   YES! has over 24,000 clients with offices in Redmond, Kirkland, Bellevue and Samammish.  They have certified counselors in all Lake Washington School District Junior and Senior High schools, including the Old Redmond Firehouse Teen Center.

The organization's benevolence is made possible by passionate support from the community.

Every year YES holds an "Invest in Youth" breakfast to support the cost of uncompensated care.  Last year over 550 guests attended and donated $290,000 to the "Lifeline Fund".    This year, the breakfast will be on Wednesday, March 3rd, 7:30-8:30 at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue.  The breakfast  is spearheaded by Costco Wholesale and Microsoft, but you can start a table with your friends. More info.  I'll be sharing the news on my FaceBook!

Factoid:  As many one third of high school students experience violence in an intimate or dating relationship. YES! can help.  Call 425-747-4937.   Website

by Bob Yoder

The Art of Rock

The Art of Rock

Alluring, creative groupings of natural stones balanced and fitted into art forms.  Beautiful, natural local photography.  see art here

by Redmond Library blog.

xxx

Notes from the King County Library Proposition 1 ballot brochure:

Some facts:

• KCLS is the thrid busiest library system in the U.S.
• Nearly 90% of the 1.2 million resident in KCLS' service area have a library card.
• KCLS is not part of the King County government.  It is a separate jurisdiction under State law with the sole mission to provide library service to area residents.
• 96% of all funding comes from local taxpayers. 
• On Feb. 9 KCLS will be asking us to vote for a small increase (50 cents) in property taxes to make up for a $1.9 million cut in the 2009 operating budget.

by Bob Yoder

Hospital picks Evergreen CEO Steve Brown to guide expansion | Penn State News | Local - Centre Daily Times

Hospital picks CEO Steve Brown to guide expansion Penn State News Local - Centre Daily Times

Head of Seattle-area facility has skills overseeing growth.

The CEO who has overseen dramatic growth at Evergreen Hospital, near Seattle  has been selected to guide similar developments as chief executive officer of Mount Nittany Medical Center, PA. 

Steve Brown is credited with overseeing the financial turnaround of Evergreen Hospital Medical Center in Kirkland, Wash., and an expansion in both the hospital’s facilities and services during his eight-year tenure CEO.   Read more

by Nick Malawskey- nmalawsk@centredaily.com
centerdaily.com

Nintendo Wii to get Netflix

Nintendo Wii to get Netflix

Nintendo will become the last of the Big Three console makers to offer Netflix instant streaming, announcing plans this morning to add the feature to the Wii this spring. The move will give Netflix a substantially bigger market for its on-demand service.  read complete story

By Todd  Bishop
TechFlash

Note:  Wii games are available at the Redmond Senior Science Center.  The Center is open to teenagers over 17.  (Sign-in at the front desk)  B.Y.  

How does local government recognize and show appreciation for our local elected officials?

OPINION:   Updated:  This blog covers the process, behaviors and actions of our local governments, including the City of Redmond, Lake Washington School District, and Evergreen Public Hospital.  I'm of the opinion the City of Redmond sets the "gold standard" for governments in our community.

One of the positive elements of city behavior is the recognition the CEO/Mayor gives councilmembers.  Mr. Marchione always gives the Council Committee Chairs the opportunity to explain and be recognized for their committee work.  Councilmembers work very hard outside of their Regular and Work Study meetings at chairing various committees.   The viewing public learns from these council committee reports and develops an appreciation and respect for the councilmembers' hard work.

No doubt, the viewing public would appreciate similar recognition for our Lake Washington School Board members, but we are not getting it.  CEO/Superintendent Kimball has been working hard to get the word out on the funding ballot issues.   But,  by law, only School Board members are allowed to "sell" the funding measures.  Maybe I'm wrong, but I've never seen Dr. Kimball and President Pendergrass recognize Board members by name for their individual work in promoting the bond and levies.  Without open recognition of specific efforts by individual school board members, the viewing public can't appreciate what our School Board members are doing to promote the bond. 

President Pendergrass gave accolades to three citizen-lobbyists' efforts at the last school board meeting, but didn't mention the name or effort of a single Board Member promoting the bond.   Superintendent Kimball appears as remiss about recognizing Board Members ballot efforts, but for the most part President Jackie Pendergrass is responsible for crediting the Superintendent and Board members.

I personally know Board member Ravi Shahani did some great work selling the bond to Redmond City Council.  I watched his presentation on TV.   But, what are the rest of the Board members doing?  And has Ravi done other work for which he is not being recognized? 

by Bob Yoder

"Feeling trapped by your computer or out of control video gaming?"

"Computer Addiction":   Hilarie Cash, Ph.D., is a nationally recognized expert from Internet/Computer Addiction Services  http://www.icaservices.com/ .   She will be speaking on Computer Addiction at Evergreen Hospital on January 19. 

Children with ADHD, Autism, Social Anxiety and low self esteem are more vulnerable to internet and gaming addictions;Adults, too. Learn how to recognize signs of addiction and what you can do to prevent it.

If you or someone you care about is feeling trapped by their computer or out of control video gaming, you will want to hear about this widespread phenomenon.

Tuesday January 19th, 7 - 9 pm
Evergreen Hospital Medical Center
Surgery & Physicians Center
12040 NE 128th Street
Kirkland, WA 98034
Room TAN 101

CONTACT: For more information, call (206) 622-2127  or info@nwchadd.org

xxx

ADD Resources event on "School Success Strategies"  Feb. 6th

go to: http://w3.addresources.org/index.php?q=node/315

- special thanks to Beth Angelo for this information
 Beth Angelo is Chair, Special Needs, LWPTSA Council

Take another look at high school hoops rankings

Another take on boys and girls high school hoops rankings
Seattle Times High School Sports Blog
by Mason Kelly

Woodinville, Issaquah and Newport-Bellevue ranked in Girls State Top Ten.
                                                                      xxx

              

MARK YOUR CALENDERS: 

Redmond Girls Mustangs play:
Eastlake on Friday, 1/15, 6:30pm (h)
Lake Washington, 1/20, 7:30 (h)

Issaquah on Friday, 1/22, 6:30pm (h)

Newport on Friday, 1/29, 6:30pm (h)
Skyline on Wednesday, 2/10 7:30pm (h)

photo of Redmond Mustang Stacy Kimball chasing down the ball vs. Woodinville.

Photo courtesy of  Mel Thompson. http://www.redmondbasketball.com/

H1N1 vaccination now available in Redmond for those who can't pay.

H1N1 (Swine) vaccination is now available in Redmond for those who can't afford to pay:

HealthPoint Redmond (16315 NE 87th St, Suite B6)
Saturday, January 16, 23, 30; 9 am - 12 pm

Over 600,000 people in King County have been vaccinated against the H1N1 influenza ("swine flu"), but many people in King County do not yet have immunity and remain at risk to a virus that continues to circulate in the community. With vaccine availability continuing to widen, now is a good time for anyone six months of age and older to take advantage of the vaccination opportunity.

Influenza illnesses severe among certain groups, including children, as well as pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions and weakened immune systems,"

More information is available at www.kingcounty.gov/health/H1N1

Source:  KingCounty.gov

Eastside legislators talk 520 tolls, education and budget cuts

Eastside legislators talk 520 tolls, education and budget cuts

Education, budget cuts and tolls on the 520 bridge were front and center during a forum of more than 60 people with 48th District Washington State legislators at Kirkland City Hall Thursday.

Sen. Rodney Tom (D-Bellevue), Rep. Ross Hunter (D-Medina) and Rep. Deb Eddy (D-Kirkland) affirmed their commitment to hold on to funds for education that will be threatened by budget cuts, through the new legislative session that began Monday.

"We have to support education first," said Tom.  .... But it took three separate questions from audience members before the legislators got specific on what would be the first thing to be cut in education if the budget axe once again falls on schools.

"First thing we will cut out of k-12 is class size reduction money," said Hunter. "We are not going to start charter schools this year." (see complete story)

By MATT PHELPS
Kirkland Reporter Staff  Writer
Today, 1/11, 10:52 AM

Support our local businesses at the upcoming Bellevue Home Show

THE BELLEVUE HOME SHOW - January 22-24

Let's support our Redmond businesses at the upcoming Bellevue Home Show

They are: Classic Nursery, Habitat for Humanity, Hanson Chiropractic, Kitchen Krafters, Landcape Design & Construction, Larry Haight's Roofing, Luxury Bath, Marymoor Construction, Pacific Landscape Mgmt and Signature Landscape Services.

Bellevue Home Show is January 22 - 24 at Meydenbauer Center; http://www.bellevuehomeshow.com/  for more information.

by Rosanne Cohn 
(from "comments".)

Local Boys Scouts invite you to nominate community service projects.

“To celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America, the Chief Seattle Council invites YOU to nominate community service projects. The Boy Scouts have long been known for their service to others and we look forward to living up to our oath of helping others at all times. Please submit your request at our website: https://viecommunication.wufoo.com/forms/tell-us-how-the-boy-scouts-can-help-you/”

Earlier this year, the Scouts responded to several citizen requests to restore a section of the Sammamish River bank and install "no dump" buttons on street stormwater drains.  The Scouts are sincere!  Send them your application request today!  by

Paige Norman

Steeple-jack Consulting, Tenhulzen Remodeling, and Blazing Bagels give tips on "Running a Business" to Youth.

Three exciting, local business entrepreneurs will present a Career Panel on "Running a Business" January 12. This is a rare opportunity for youth and parents to ask questions and learn about what it takes to start your own business in today's economic climate!

 WHEN:   Tuesday, January 12, 7:00 - 8:30 P.M

WHERE:  Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Center (16600 NE 80th ST, Redmond).

Confirmed business owners donating their time and expertise include Dennis Ballen of Blazing Bagels, Mike Tenhulzen of Tenhulzen Remodeling, and Mary Bourguignon of Steeple-jack Consulting.

Mike Tenhulzen of Tenhulzen Remodeling has a well established family remodeling and real estate business; Mike is a Redmond Chamber of Commerce Trustee and well known in the business community and his neighborhood. Tenhulzen Remodeling has an awesome multi-media website - full of resources, tips, and advice. Mike writes a monthly home improvement column for some of the local Reporters.

Dennis Ballen of Blazing Bagels has a newer, thriving business in Redmond and Bellevue. The Redmond Location is 6975 176th Avenue Northeast Redmond, WA (425) 883-1550. Blazing Bagels are found all over Puget Sound - in hospitals, businesses, restaurants, and groceries. Read reviews! Dennis is an active member of the Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce.

Mary Bourguignon of Steeple-jack Consulting. "Steeple-jack is Mary Bourguignon. I live in the Pacific Northwest with my husband and two boys. I ride my bike a lot. And I spend a lot of time helping people get their ideas down on paper, on the web, and in the classroom..."  Mary is also a long time Parks Commissioner and PTSA editor of  "Mustang News".

Refreshments provided by World Market.  Youth and parents are invited to this evening event!

posted by Bob Yoder. source: Mustang News

UPDATED: Local News | Neighborhood news partnerships | Seattle Times Newspaper

Local News Neighborhood news partnerships

In an effort to provide readers with the most comprehensive and up-to-date news from throughout the region, The Seattle Times has forged partnerships with a number of local news Web sites.

Bob Payne
Director of Communities
seattletimes.com
206.464.2154

Comment (by Bob Yoder):  The Redmond Neighborhood Blog has been invited by Bob Payne to join this local news partnership with SeattleTimes.com.  I have three options:  join, ask for periodic postings of my stories, or remain independent of mainstream news.  What do you think?

UPDATE, 1/19  Ross Hunter responded by Facebook recommending I join the partnership as an "added value".  One of the local bloggers suggested a partnership would improve credibility.  I attended their meeting at the Seattle Times Building and joined the partnership. 

Continued landscaping delays at CAMWEST Development's "Perrigo Heights" project.

 

UPDATED, 10/18/2018:  Trees and shrubs were planted along with irrigation lines.  The forest has since grown back and you can't see this stormwater vault.  Group Health planted the trees as part of an off-site mitigation requirement.

B. Yoder

"March Can Madness" single elimination food drive tournament!

Hello local business owners (and friends)!

Redmond Physical Therapy and Hopelink, a human services nonprofit serving the Eastside, have teamed up to create a fun way to raise food donations for Hopelink’s Redmond food bank. “March Can Madness” pairs up businesses in a series of competitive food drives held each week in March. We have room in the “tournament” for 16 businesses and we’re hoping yours will be one of them!

March Can Madness is patterned after the single elimination bracket style tournament in college basketball. The first week of March, the businesses will be paired up in eight “games” in which each gathers donations of canned food. On Friday, the businesses bring their food to Hopelink for weighing. The pounds raised will be divided by how many employees in the business, making it fair for all. The eight businesses with the most food in their bracket will advance to the next week’s food drive competition, and so on until the last week in March when the two remaining businesses will compete for the “championship.”

The Redmond Reporter will publish the weekly bracket results and Hopelink will e-mail the participants weekly so everyone knows how they did and who advances in the tournament.

The timing for March Can Madness couldn’t be better as food donations always drop off after the holidays, even as hunger continues to haunt hundreds of Redmond families.

For more information and to register, just visit here and complete the registration form and send it to Hopelink. If you have any questions, please e-mail me. Thanks for your time and support!
Thanks for time and your support!

Sincerely,

Benjamin Wobker

BenWobker@RedmondPT.com
http://www.redmondpt.com/
425.881.3001

Email Entries to Hopelink c/o:
Lil Klein
lilk@hope-link.org
entry form

Wal-Mart announces $75,000 in food bank donations at Redmond City Council Meeting

A Senior Public Affaires Manager for Wal-Mart announced donations to Eastside food banks totaling $75,000 at last night's Council meeting.

$25,000 will go to "Eastside Cities Emergency Feeding Program".   $50,000 will go to Hope-link, a community services program developed by Doreen Marchione, a past Redmond Mayor. 

Is it possible Wal-Mart is considering a store in the SE Redmond neighborhood and building political capital?  Costco tabled plans to build in SE Redmond.  In any event, the food donation is needed by our Eastside community and was well received by both agency representatives.

by Bob Yoder

Say YES! for student alcohol counseling!

The story below of  Robert's experience with alcohol was commonplace when I went to high school in New York (40 years ago) and is common today on Education Hill.  I was a jock and it was almost expected we drink, drive and party hardy. Same is the case at Redmond High School and other Lake Washington schools. I'm thankful to be sober and alive today. Tell your friends about Youth Eastside Services. (YES)  They can help!    -- Bob Yoder

Letter from Youth Eastside Services

Dear Bob,

"Looking back on it now, I'm one of the lucky ones," says Robert. "I easily could have died from an accidental overdose."

Last August, 17 year old Robert decided to throw a party while his parents were out of town. When he blacked out and fell to the ground around 1:00 a.m., most of his friends were high or drunk.

"I had alcohol poisoning and was severely dehydrated because I hadn't drunk any water in the last 48 hours. At first my friends thought it was funny. Then they didn't want to risk getting into trouble by driving me to the hospital. I guess someone at the party called 911 and after a painful and scary night in the emergency room, I was okay."

The incident was a wake-up call for Robert and his parents. Through counseling and the YES sober support group, Robert was able to address his problem and regain his parent's trust.

"Drugs and alcohol can be so easy to get if you are motivated and believe me, I was motivated. Thanks to YES, no way will I ever spend a night like that again."

Thank you for making sure kids like Robert don't become just another statistic.

Best wishes in the New Year,

Patti Skelton-McGougan

Executive Director, Youth Eastside Services (YES)

photo from Google Images.