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.