By Kris Bennett, Education Hill
Monday, February 15, 2010
90 Spanish and French exchange students coming to Redmond!
By Kris Bennett, Education Hill
Attend a Town Hall Meeting with our Legislators, Saturday, February 20.
Attend a Town Hall Meeting Sat. 20th with Our Legislators:
Letter by Byron Shultz, Redmond
The 32nd, 45th & 48th District legislators are hosting Town Hall Meetings for us on Saturday, Feb. 20, (11-1) at Crossroads Community Center and invite you to share your comments, questions and concerns about topics related to the Washington state Legislature. The events are free and open to all constituents.
The gatherings are an opportune time for education advocates - Legs have just 3 weeks left in the Session and are close to final decisions on advancing K-12 ed reforms, the budget, and other important votes for kids.
Those who show up drive their agenda - even if for just 15 minutes! Parents must show, say & play - plenty of vocal folks are asking for their interests to be served first before the kids'. Bringing just 1 question can make a difference! (And we'll hear more about: The State Budget, Hwy 520 project, Sound Transit through Bellevue to Redmond.)
The 48th's Town Hall: Sen. Rodney Tom and Reps. Deb Eddy & Ross Hunter; the 48th includes parts of Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Issaquah, and all of the Points Communities.
Saturday, Feb. 20, 11:00 a.m - 1:00 p.m.
Crossroad Community Center at 16000, NE 10th St., Bellevue
(behind the old Circuit City building on the east south-east side of Crossroads Mall, at the end of the drive past the retirement center).
Letter by Byron Shultz, Redmond
The 32nd, 45th & 48th District legislators are hosting Town Hall Meetings for us on Saturday, Feb. 20, (11-1) at Crossroads Community Center and invite you to share your comments, questions and concerns about topics related to the Washington state Legislature. The events are free and open to all constituents.
The gatherings are an opportune time for education advocates - Legs have just 3 weeks left in the Session and are close to final decisions on advancing K-12 ed reforms, the budget, and other important votes for kids.
Those who show up drive their agenda - even if for just 15 minutes! Parents must show, say & play - plenty of vocal folks are asking for their interests to be served first before the kids'. Bringing just 1 question can make a difference! (And we'll hear more about: The State Budget, Hwy 520 project, Sound Transit through Bellevue to Redmond.)
The 48th's Town Hall: Sen. Rodney Tom and Reps. Deb Eddy & Ross Hunter; the 48th includes parts of Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Issaquah, and all of the Points Communities.
Saturday, Feb. 20, 11:00 a.m - 1:00 p.m.
Crossroad Community Center at 16000, NE 10th St., Bellevue
(behind the old Circuit City building on the east south-east side of Crossroads Mall, at the end of the drive past the retirement center).
Sunday, February 14, 2010
The Amazing Race: New season includes a Microsoft employee
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"Microsoft employees will be rooting for one of their own in the new season of 'The Amazing Race,' which debuts Sunday night on CBS. The competitors include Microsoft enterprise sales specialist Joe Wang, 42, based in Southern California, who teams with his wife, Heidi, in the show's 16th season." complete story.
By Todd Bishop (photo by CBS)
TechFlash
Sunday, Valentine's Day, 2/14
UPDATED: Some recent Crimes on Education Hill
>14:01:20 02/08/2010
EDUCATION HILL10000 block of 166 AVE NE
The Redmond Police School Resource Officer working at Redmond Junior High School was involved in an investigation that resulted in two students being arrested for possession of prescribed medication without a prescription. The students were booked and later released to their parents. The investigation will be continued at this time.
>Marijuana - Misd Possession 10:10:47 02/08/2010
EDUCATION HILL 10000 block of 166 AVE NE
The Redmond Police School Resource Officer working at Redmond Junior High School was involved in an investigation that resulted in two students being arrested for possession of prescribed medication without a prescription and another student being arrested for possession of marijuana L/T 40 grams. The students were booked and later released to their parents. The investigation will be continued at this time
DUI Alcohol or Drugs02:11:26 02/11/2010
EDUCATION HILL 9300 block of RED-WOOD RD
Redmond Police stopped a vehicle for a traffic infraction. The driver was found to be driving under the influence and was arrested.
Theft of Automobile 22:50:10 02/09/20
AVONDALE18600 block of NE 59 CT
Redmond Police responded to the report of a stolen vehicle at a local apartment complex. Unknown suspect(s) stole vehicle from the parking lot of an apartment complex.
Theft-From Mtr Vehicle-Misd16:57:28 02/10/2010
AVONDALE 17700 block of NE 76 ST
Redmond Police responded to the report of a car prowl at a local hardware store. Unknown suspect(s) broke a window and stole a brief case, laptop and tools.
Three Lake Washington School District wrestlers going to State
Tyler Black crushes his opponent in 2nd match
Redmond Mustang Tyler Black (watch Tyler wresting) is going onto State in Tacoma this month! Tyler is a Senior in the 215 pound weight class. He won two of three matches in the Region II Wrestling Tournament in Federal Way by pinning: Brandon Barcelona (Todd Beamer HS) and Ricky Manz (Rogers HS) Tyler lost to all-state Skyline football player Anthony DeMatteo in an 8-2 decision. He denied the pin once again.
According to parent Mike Glass, Tyler has only been pinned once in his career. Mike's son Joe Glass (189 pound weight class) took 5th and is State alternate. (watch Joe wrestling). Abraham Herrera in only his first year wrestling for the Stangs made it to the Region II. He lost in the pigtail match.
Lake Washington HS took top spot for KingCo 4A and 5th overall with 96th points. Dylan Ultery (140) by decision and Inrahim Khifeh (189) 2nd place to Matt Steed of Emerald Ridge. Both are going to State.
KingCo 4A Region 11 team scores are: Lake Washington 96, Roosevelt 42, Newport 40, Issaquah 40,Woodinville 39.5, Skyline 38, Redmond 26, Inglemoor 22, Bothell 10, Eastlake, 10, Garfield 0, Ballard 0.
The 2010 Mat Classic XXII State Championship event is in the Tacoma Dome, February 19-20. Wrestling begins at 10 a.m. Tickets are $10 for students and seniors, $14 adults. http://www.wiaa.com/
Story By Bob Yoder
Photo & Video by Bob Yoder
See related story in Seattle Times Newspaper, 2/14.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Sounders Head Coach Sigi Schmid to speak at YES! "Invest in Youth Breakfast".
Sounders Head Coach Sigi Schmid to speak at Youth Eastside Services (YES!) Breakfast
Sounders Head Coach Sigi Schmid will bring his passion and leadership to the YES Invest in Youth Breakfast on March 3rd at the Hyatt Regency in Bellevue.
Coach Schmid will be the keynote speaker as the Eastside community comes together to support Eastside youth. He is recognized as one of the most successful coaches in Major League Soccer history. We hope you'll join YES and Coach Schmid as we celebrate kids, families, courage and hope.
So what's on the Breakfast Plate?
Ask: Wendy at WendyC@YouthEastsideServices.org or call (425) 586-2309.
What is YES?
Redmond Police to hold Education Hill forum on car prowls & burglaries
We are holding an Education Hill Community Meeting next Thursday, February 18th at 7:00 p.m. at Redmond Junior High in the Commons Area. We look forward to answering questions and concerns and providing you information that will keep you safer in the future. No RSVP, just show up and bring your neighbors."
By Jim Bove
Spokesperson, Redmond Police Department
Community Outreach
Office (425) 556-2545
jbove@redmond.gov
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Cub Scouts restore Redmond forest.
Cub Scouts James, Nathan, and Alec with parents in Hartman forest
What a fun time we had in the forest today! Pictured are three Cub Scouts and their parents (Anne, Dale, Jeannie). Are they hard workers!
Lots went on behind the scenes to pull of the event. City Maintenance crews provided the trees and tools. Norah Kates from Cascade Conservancy showed us how to use the tools and be safe. Volunteeer Land Steward, Doug Schmidt coached the cubs on how to plant and mulch the trees. We planted 17 trees!
The Cubs were industrious and could have planted more. But, environmental education is part of the Den Leader Jeannie's mission. So after a snack, Land Steward Doug took us on a tour through the forest to look for invasive (bad) plants. Doug is highly trained with a Master's in restoration. We found English Ivy, Himalayan Blackberries, Stinkweed, and a giant Holly Tree. Doug said these plants aren't from here and are bad. They grow fast in sunlight and smother the forest floor. The Cubs did a great job digging out these weeds before they planted their trees.
As we walked through the forest, we saw giant Cedars, Hemlocks, and Maples. The Cubs know that some of the trees they planted may one day grow that tall! If they decide to plant again next year, they'll see how fast their trees have grown. The link shows the forest area we worked is: http://tiny.cc/0j5Xd.
Lots of forestry restoration work remains. If you want to schedule a forestry work party contact Norah Kates at: norahk@cascadeland.org. or me. If you are a larger organization we have plenty of big jobs to in this forest. To learn more about our GreenRedmond Partnership visit: http://www.greenredmond.org/. By Bob Yoder
GreenRedmond Volunteer
Redmond Chamber announces renewing members
Gold 20 - 29 Years (1980 – 1989)
The Effectiveness Institute 1981
Emerald Heights 1989
Silver 15 - 19 Years (1990 – 1994)
Bronze 10 - 14 Years (1995 – 1999)
World Inspection Network 1997
Enterprise Rent A Car 1998
Renewing
Resource Management Inc. 2001
Redmond Back & Neck Pain Clinic 2004
The Redmond Mac Store 2006
Xtreme Consulting Group, Inc. 2006
The Loan Source 2007
Firestone Complete Autocare 2008
Thinkspace 2008
Alcyone Dental Care 2009
Integrated Solutions 2009
The Villas 2009
and a little bit more...
My Great Uncle and Aunt lived in Emerald Heights - they loved the pool, gardening, bocce ball, putting and trails. We loved the food.
Pam & I just joined the R.A.C. and I love the spinning classes. So many vibrant group activities,
I joined the Chamber after opening a home inspection business. W.I.N. won!
I still hold a life-time warranty for tire alignment service at Firestone.
ThinkSpace builds green buildings; I sent comments to the planning commission in support.
Cascade Water Alliance has water conservation tips and will someday supply water to Puget Sound cities.
[The R.A.C., Emerald Heights and Cascade Water Alliance are hyperlinked, as part of a promotional roll-out. Interested parties can Contact Bob for details, redmondblog@gmail.com, 425-802-2523]
Cascade Water Alliance has water conservation tips and will someday supply water to Puget Sound cities.
[The R.A.C., Emerald Heights and Cascade Water Alliance are hyperlinked, as part of a promotional roll-out. Interested parties can Contact Bob for details, redmondblog@gmail.com, 425-802-2523]
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Redmond triplets remember their selfless mother
Redmond triplets remember their selfless mother
Story By Mason Kelley
Seattle Times staff reporter
REDMOND — For Alex and Katie Whitaker, the basketball court provides a temporary escape.
It is an escape from grief.
It is an escape from heartache.
It is an escape from the reality that their mother is gone
The complete Seattle Times story is posted on http://redmondbasketball.com/ and the Title link.
JIM BATES / THE SEATTLE TIMES
Triplets Ben, Alex and Katie Whitaker, and their dad Mickey stand together for Senior Night ceremonies at Redmond High School. Sally Whitaker died of ovarian cancer on Jan. 25. Ben, left, is a golfer. Alex and Katie play basketball for Redmond. Story By Mason Kelley
Seattle Times staff reporter
REDMOND — For Alex and Katie Whitaker, the basketball court provides a temporary escape.
It is an escape from grief.
It is an escape from heartache.
It is an escape from the reality that their mother is gone
The complete Seattle Times story is posted on http://redmondbasketball.com/ and the Title link.
#####
Note from Bob Yoder/Seattle Times Partner: My daughter Lexie, has been friends with Katie, Alex and Ben since pre-school. My wife Pam, sat in the bleachers with Sally for seven years watching Katie and Lexie play Mustang basketball. We attended Sally's Celebration Memorial on January 30 with ~500 others from the "Whitaker Community". I was too emotionally involved to report on this and told Mickey I wished to show my respect for our beloved Sally with silence.Tuesday, February 9, 2010
UPDATED: ELECTION RESULTS: LWSD Bond measure looks unlikely to pass.
UPDATED: ELECTION RESULTS:
Lake Washington School District Levy and Bond election results
King County Library Proposition 1 levy election results
"But an important $234 million bond measure in Lake Washington School District looked unlikely to pass, as just 53.5 percent of counted ballots were for approval. Bond issues need 60 percent approval.
The bond issue would address overcrowding by converting the district's high schools from three-year schools to four-year schools.
"It looks like our voters are saying this is not the time," said Kathryn Reith, district spokeswoman."
Excerpt from Seattle Times article, 2/9 9:15 PM
Lake Washington School District Levy and Bond election results
King County Library Proposition 1 levy election results
"But an important $234 million bond measure in Lake Washington School District looked unlikely to pass, as just 53.5 percent of counted ballots were for approval. Bond issues need 60 percent approval.
The bond issue would address overcrowding by converting the district's high schools from three-year schools to four-year schools.
"It looks like our voters are saying this is not the time," said Kathryn Reith, district spokeswoman."
Excerpt from Seattle Times article, 2/9 9:15 PM
Chandler Jones named a Seattle Times High School Star of the Week
High School Sports Seattle Times Stars of the Week Seattle Times Newspaper
Chandler Jones
Chandler Jones
Redmond basketball
Jones, a senior guard, connected on eight three-pointers and scored a season-high 33 points in a victory over Ballard.
Redmond High students help people of Haiti.
Anand and Ashwin Raghuraman of Redmond High School organized a fundraiser for the people of Haiti. They went around their neighborhood in Sammamish asking families and friends to donate for the cause. Everyone was very supportive of their cause and in two weeks, they collected a total of $1200. Last Friday, they went to the local chapter of Red Cross in Seattle and donated the money. The staff at the Red Cross was very happy that Redmond High School students were getting involved for these international efforts to help the people of Haiti. Photo: Anand and Ashwin Raghuraman with American Red Cross staff."
By Shannon Parthemer,
Community Relations & Communications Coordinator, LWSD
(425) 702-3300
Monday, February 8, 2010
Redmond's first school bell rings out for your vote
Bob Yoder
Redmond's first school bell was mounted on a one-room school house in 1892. Today it rings for you to vote this Tuesday, Februrary 9th. Don't be late for class! The "final bell" rings for all 52 Lake Washington School District Schools this Tuesday at 8pm when ballots must be postmarked.
Here's your homework: Read your Cliff Notes on the funding measures. Answer all three True-False questions correctly. I hope you have a quality teacher and adequate classroom size. It could determine whether you pass or fail.
By Bob Yoder
#####
"Redmond's first school was a simple log cabin built in 1875. Between 1888 and 1892 classes were in the Congregational Church. It wasn't until 1892 that a new one-room school was built at what is now Anderson Park. It was at this school that Redmond mounted it's first school bell, seen here. The Fact that a small community comprised mostly of small farmers and loggers raised money to purchase a bell for the schoolhouse demonstrated the pride and importance placed on schooling early in our city history."
The bell is now mounted on the west side of the Public Safety Building.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
PTA mom tours Juanita High School infrastructure - gives startling report
LETTER: Voters in the Lake Washington School District now have the opportunity to pass a bond that would modernize Juanita High School three years ahead of schedule.
Curious about the needs of the school and having some experience in assessing school infrastructures, I recently toured Juanita HS in the company of Associate Principal Timothy Hupperten and Head Custodian Les Richey. I immediately observed that the staff and students at Juanita keep their hallways, bathrooms, cafeteria, and classrooms clean and free of graffiti.
Further along, I saw that the facilities are way too small for the growing needs of the students. Everywhere I visited, I saw that teachers and students have been very resourceful in making good use of tight space.
But most important of all, I realized that Juanita High School has serious deficiencies in many essential operating systems, including those for heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, electrical, and plumbing. And the roof leaks. For example:
• Even though five portables are in daily use, classrooms are still crowded, averaging 32 students per class with little space for storage, computer stations, or small group meetings.
• The limited science labs were built with lab benches meant for six groups of four students (24 student capacity). The hands-on experience of 32 students in the chemistry class is limited in this setting.
• The school’s electrical capacity is limited. Teachers curb their use of electrical devices to avoid blowing fuses. Students have lost their computer work when overloaded circuits popped.
• The school would clearly like to increase its technology capacity. But adding new wiring means drilling through the thick concrete pad that supports the building to access the underground wiring system.
• The girls do not have enough bathrooms. Over 500 girls rely on just 13 toilets in the girls’ two main bathrooms, only one of which is wheelchair-accessible.
• The roof is flat. Despite repeated repairs, water perennially pools on the roof and leaks into Juanita’s classrooms, hallways, library, theater, gymnasium, locker rooms and offices, causing expensive damage.
• The gas-powered boiler is too small to properly heat a building that has 18-foot tall ceilings. Not all HVAC ducts properly align with the classrooms. As a result, some classrooms are always too hot in the warm months, and too cold in the winter.
These are costly problems that no amount of elbow-grease and can-do spirit can solve. They affect the education of our children in very profound ways. Our children deserve better. I dearly love the Juanita HS community. Although I don’t have children at the school, I am a Juanita PTA member and have attended many sporting events, plays, and graduation ceremonies. I can personally attest to the spirit, pride and warmth that the students, teachers, principal, building staff and parents all feel about their school.
So, I voted YES for the bond and hope you do the same. Will you?
By Barb Billinghurst
Kirkland, WA.
Fast Facts on 2010 Levy and Bond Measures.
Curious about the needs of the school and having some experience in assessing school infrastructures, I recently toured Juanita HS in the company of Associate Principal Timothy Hupperten and Head Custodian Les Richey. I immediately observed that the staff and students at Juanita keep their hallways, bathrooms, cafeteria, and classrooms clean and free of graffiti.
Further along, I saw that the facilities are way too small for the growing needs of the students. Everywhere I visited, I saw that teachers and students have been very resourceful in making good use of tight space.
But most important of all, I realized that Juanita High School has serious deficiencies in many essential operating systems, including those for heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, electrical, and plumbing. And the roof leaks. For example:
• Even though five portables are in daily use, classrooms are still crowded, averaging 32 students per class with little space for storage, computer stations, or small group meetings.
• The limited science labs were built with lab benches meant for six groups of four students (24 student capacity). The hands-on experience of 32 students in the chemistry class is limited in this setting.
• The school’s electrical capacity is limited. Teachers curb their use of electrical devices to avoid blowing fuses. Students have lost their computer work when overloaded circuits popped.
• The school would clearly like to increase its technology capacity. But adding new wiring means drilling through the thick concrete pad that supports the building to access the underground wiring system.
• The girls do not have enough bathrooms. Over 500 girls rely on just 13 toilets in the girls’ two main bathrooms, only one of which is wheelchair-accessible.
• The roof is flat. Despite repeated repairs, water perennially pools on the roof and leaks into Juanita’s classrooms, hallways, library, theater, gymnasium, locker rooms and offices, causing expensive damage.
• The gas-powered boiler is too small to properly heat a building that has 18-foot tall ceilings. Not all HVAC ducts properly align with the classrooms. As a result, some classrooms are always too hot in the warm months, and too cold in the winter.
These are costly problems that no amount of elbow-grease and can-do spirit can solve. They affect the education of our children in very profound ways. Our children deserve better. I dearly love the Juanita HS community. Although I don’t have children at the school, I am a Juanita PTA member and have attended many sporting events, plays, and graduation ceremonies. I can personally attest to the spirit, pride and warmth that the students, teachers, principal, building staff and parents all feel about their school.
So, I voted YES for the bond and hope you do the same. Will you?
By Barb Billinghurst
Kirkland, WA.
Fast Facts on 2010 Levy and Bond Measures.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
UPDATED: Seattle Times debt is restructured - local partnerships alive and growing.
Dear Readers and Guests:
UPDATED: As you may know, The Seattle Times has partnered with my blog and 18 others in the Seattle area to bring exciting, hyper local news to our communities. In just two weeks time, my partnership with the Seattle Times has changed the landscape of my work as a Citizen Blogger. More neighbors and businesses are approaching me. My credibility has skyrocketed and as long as I report with accuracy, clarity, on topic, with good sourcing and judgement, I'm confident you will read and recommend my journal.
The Seattle Times recently sponsored my participation in the annual Associated Press Managing Editors (APME) editor's training workshop. It was held in Tacoma this year at the News Tribune. Besides filling my yellow pad with notes on the values and tools of journalism, many of the participants embraced my effort. I now have the resources I need to create a new platform rich in content. I'll carry a modest tool box to build news-generating social media and engage YOU with your neighbors, schools, businesses and city!
Thank you for your patience while I get up and running. As you read my journal you will see the changes, but not overnight. Expect fewer stories through the Spring. And, I'll be connecting more with local businesses. So hang in and know I'm working hard for you.
This sea change in my approach to reach out to you would probably never occur without The Seattle Times partnership. I am forever grateful to the TIMES organization. And I am also very happy to report exciting news today that the TIMES is financially sound and we can look forward to the long future together.
Thank you for your readership and to those who have contributed with comments, a photo, a story or idea! And for John Reinke correcting an embarrassing spelling error!
By Bob Yoder
UPDATED: As you may know, The Seattle Times has partnered with my blog and 18 others in the Seattle area to bring exciting, hyper local news to our communities. In just two weeks time, my partnership with the Seattle Times has changed the landscape of my work as a Citizen Blogger. More neighbors and businesses are approaching me. My credibility has skyrocketed and as long as I report with accuracy, clarity, on topic, with good sourcing and judgement, I'm confident you will read and recommend my journal.
The Seattle Times recently sponsored my participation in the annual Associated Press Managing Editors (APME) editor's training workshop. It was held in Tacoma this year at the News Tribune. Besides filling my yellow pad with notes on the values and tools of journalism, many of the participants embraced my effort. I now have the resources I need to create a new platform rich in content. I'll carry a modest tool box to build news-generating social media and engage YOU with your neighbors, schools, businesses and city!
Thank you for your patience while I get up and running. As you read my journal you will see the changes, but not overnight. Expect fewer stories through the Spring. And, I'll be connecting more with local businesses. So hang in and know I'm working hard for you.
This sea change in my approach to reach out to you would probably never occur without The Seattle Times partnership. I am forever grateful to the TIMES organization. And I am also very happy to report exciting news today that the TIMES is financially sound and we can look forward to the long future together.
Thank you for your readership and to those who have contributed with comments, a photo, a story or idea! And for John Reinke correcting an embarrassing spelling error!
By Bob Yoder
Friday, February 5, 2010
Swedish slated to open Redmond Ambulatory Care and E.R. end of 2010.
Local Health Guide - Seattle Times
REDMOND, WASH., Feb. 5, 2010 – Swedish Health Services announced today development of an innovative ambulatory care and freestanding emergency room (ER) in Redmond. A building permit application is under review by the City of Redmond and an exterior rendering of the structure has been completed. The current schedule anticipates construction to begin in March 2010 and be completed by end of the year.
Designed to be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Designed to be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, Swedish will lease 55,000-square-feet of space for clinical programs including an ER with 18 exam rooms, advanced diagnostic imaging (including X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan and MRI), on-site laboratory services, as well as primary and specialty care offices.
The facility is planned on a 6.5-acre parcel at 18100 Union Hill Road, next to the Microsoft campus.
Released by Ed Boyle
206-386-2748
ed.boyle@swedish.org
Redmond Police arrest man for indecent exposure
This report just in from Jim Bove, Spokesperson for the Redmond Police:
Redmond Police arrested a man last night in Grasslawn Park for indecent exposure. We believe he may be linked to at least three previous cases with a similar suspect description over the last six months. He walked out to the trail exposing and touching himself. The victim who saw him ran to the parking lot to borrow someone's cell phone to call 911. Officers responded immediately and the victim flagged down one of the officers as he arrived and pointed out the area where the victim was.
Mr. Bove said, "This was not only an important arrest because of the circumstances, but just as important that the victim kept her wits about her and responded exactly how she was supposed to--calling us with a description and location of the man."
By Jim Bove
City of Redmond Spokesperson
9:27 AM, 2/5/2010 - first reported
Redmond Police arrested a man last night in Grasslawn Park for indecent exposure. We believe he may be linked to at least three previous cases with a similar suspect description over the last six months. He walked out to the trail exposing and touching himself. The victim who saw him ran to the parking lot to borrow someone's cell phone to call 911. Officers responded immediately and the victim flagged down one of the officers as he arrived and pointed out the area where the victim was.
Mr. Bove said, "This was not only an important arrest because of the circumstances, but just as important that the victim kept her wits about her and responded exactly how she was supposed to--calling us with a description and location of the man."
By Jim Bove
City of Redmond Spokesperson
9:27 AM, 2/5/2010 - first reported
Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month: Hanna's Story
When Hannah first came to YES she favored skinny jeans, ballet flats and as much make-up as she could get away with in an effort to look like a 16 years old, rather than the 14 year old that she was. 'I used to tell my Mom everything would be okay with my boyfriend Brad if she would just butt out,' she says. 'But things were far from okay.'
Brad was showing the classic signs of an abuser - isolating Hannah from friends and family, telling her he was the only one who truly understood her, pressuring her to have sex, and using anger to threaten and control. 'He was 17 and had dropped out of high school. He seemed like such a grown up. He wanted me to quit school too. He talked about starting a family.'
One night Hannah came home crying and bruised after a fight, which tripped alarm bells for her parents. But Hannah wasn't ready to let go. Hannah's mother turned to YES, insisting on counseling for Hannah. Hannah began learning about healthy relationships and both Hannah and her parents were given the tools to empower Hannah to safely stand-up to, and eventually leave Brad.
'I thought I loved Brad and nothing was going to change that. But I was in the dark. So many girls like me need to learn about healthy relationships. Without YES I'm certain I would have been another high school drop-out, teen mother or victim of domestic violence.
This month is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. In honor of kids like Hannah, I'd like to thank you for being a part of a community that cares about girls at-risk for teen dating and domestic violence and for all the kids and families who get the help they need from YES.
National Teen Dating Violence Website: http://www.teendvmonth.org/
Sincerely,
By Patti Skelton-McGougan
Executive Director, YES!
Youth Eastside Services
(with drop-in centers at Redmond's Family Resource Center, Crossroads, Kirkland, and Sammamish)
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Evergreen Hospital Names Interim CEO
Evergreen Hospital Names Interim CEO:
"Kirkland, WA – Lowell Johnson of Seattle has been selected by the Board of Commissioners to serve as interim chief executive officer at Evergreen Hospital Medical Center in Kirkland. He will be in charge of the healthcare organization’s day-to-day operation while a national search is conducted to replace Steve Brown." complete story
By Sherry Grindeland
Media Relations Coordinator, Evergreen Hospital
"Kirkland, WA – Lowell Johnson of Seattle has been selected by the Board of Commissioners to serve as interim chief executive officer at Evergreen Hospital Medical Center in Kirkland. He will be in charge of the healthcare organization’s day-to-day operation while a national search is conducted to replace Steve Brown." complete story
By Sherry Grindeland
Media Relations Coordinator, Evergreen Hospital
Lake Washington Schools Foundation Co-President asks you to renew an irreplaceable investment.
Our district has an enviable record of publicly involving the community in budget decisions, and for being transparent. The Lake Washington volunteer School Board and district administration have also demonstrated state-wide leadership in fiscal accountability. As the 6th largest district in Washington, LWSD ranks #2 out of the largest 15 districts on dollars per pupil spent on teaching while also being 2nd best at spending the least for central administration per student.
Local community leaders in every arena and industry, many of whom publicly endorse the school levies (readers can check with their organizations of choice for their outlook), join in asking your readers to renew an irreplaceable investment by us, each local voter, for our own futures by voting “Yes” to approve all three Lake Washington school measures on the Feb. 9th ballot.
Byron C. Shutz, Jr.
Co-President 2009-2010, Lake Washington Schools Foundation
Redmond, WA 98052
byron@byronshutzjr.org
http://www.byronshutzjr.org/
Local community leaders in every arena and industry, many of whom publicly endorse the school levies (readers can check with their organizations of choice for their outlook), join in asking your readers to renew an irreplaceable investment by us, each local voter, for our own futures by voting “Yes” to approve all three Lake Washington school measures on the Feb. 9th ballot.
Byron C. Shutz, Jr.
Co-President 2009-2010, Lake Washington Schools Foundation
Redmond, WA 98052
byron@byronshutzjr.org
http://www.byronshutzjr.org/
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Microsoft's self-powered TV remote, no batteries required
Microsoft's self-powered TV remote, no batteries required
The days of scouring the couch cushions for batteries may be numbered. Researchers from Microsoft's lab in Cambridge, England, have created a media remote control called "Peppermill" that converts the twisting motion required to use it into the energy needed to power it. complete story
By Todd Bishop
Tech Flash
The days of scouring the couch cushions for batteries may be numbered. Researchers from Microsoft's lab in Cambridge, England, have created a media remote control called "Peppermill" that converts the twisting motion required to use it into the energy needed to power it. complete story
By Todd Bishop
Tech Flash
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
“Farewell to Chapple Gym” at Lake Washington High - Lake Washington School District
“Farewell to Chapple Gym” at Lake Washington High - Lake Washington School District:
"Kirkland, Wash. – Chapple Gymnasium at Lake Washington High School has been the site of many high school games, dances and other momentous events. It was even the site of Doug and Emmary Chapple’s wedding in 1993. The gymnasium was named for Chapple in 1992, when he retired from coaching. This year is the last for Chapple Gym since it will be demolished in May as part of the modernization of Lake Washington High School.
On February 5, one week before the last official basketball game in Chapple Gym, Lake Washington High School alumni and friends are invited to say “Farewell to Chapple Gym.” In addition to JV and Varsity Boys and Girls basketball games versus Bothell, there will be a chance for alumni to reconnect and to say hello to Doug Chapple. Doug will be honored between the girls’ Varsity game and the boys’ Varsity game, which begins about 8:00 p.m." read complete story
By Kathryn Reith
LWSD Director of Communications
"Kirkland, Wash. – Chapple Gymnasium at Lake Washington High School has been the site of many high school games, dances and other momentous events. It was even the site of Doug and Emmary Chapple’s wedding in 1993. The gymnasium was named for Chapple in 1992, when he retired from coaching. This year is the last for Chapple Gym since it will be demolished in May as part of the modernization of Lake Washington High School.
On February 5, one week before the last official basketball game in Chapple Gym, Lake Washington High School alumni and friends are invited to say “Farewell to Chapple Gym.” In addition to JV and Varsity Boys and Girls basketball games versus Bothell, there will be a chance for alumni to reconnect and to say hello to Doug Chapple. Doug will be honored between the girls’ Varsity game and the boys’ Varsity game, which begins about 8:00 p.m." read complete story
By Kathryn Reith
LWSD Director of Communications
Monday, February 1, 2010
COMMENT: THE CITY OF REDMOND "WANTS YOU!" So don't be shy!
COMMENT: The City of Redmond is looking for new commissioners and citizen advisers - again!
At last count, they need four Arts Commissioners, two Parks and Trails Commissioners, one Planning Commissioner, one youth advocate for the Arts Commission, and a citizen advisor for SE Redmond Neighborhood. So don't be shy!
I happened to glance at the Sammamish Reporter (1/22) to read the following snippet from an article "Commissioners will shape future of Sammamish".
The front page headline of the Sammamish Reporter proclaimed "citizens mobilize for a stronger voice with city". hmmm. Why are their citizens so engaged and active?
If you want to apply for one of Redmond's nine vacancies, don't be shy, contact the Mayor John Marchione's office at mayor@redmond.gov. He's the one who appoints the commissioners.
By Bob Yoder
At last count, they need four Arts Commissioners, two Parks and Trails Commissioners, one Planning Commissioner, one youth advocate for the Arts Commission, and a citizen advisor for SE Redmond Neighborhood. So don't be shy!
I happened to glance at the Sammamish Reporter (1/22) to read the following snippet from an article "Commissioners will shape future of Sammamish".
"The city council went into an executive session behind closed doors to deliberate on which of the 14 candidates it would appoint to four vacancies."Holy! How does Sammamish so successfully attract and empower their commissioners? What are they doing that's so right? What could Redmond be doing to stampede applicants to the Mayor's office? Does the city need leadership training classes? What's up?
The front page headline of the Sammamish Reporter proclaimed "citizens mobilize for a stronger voice with city". hmmm. Why are their citizens so engaged and active?
If you want to apply for one of Redmond's nine vacancies, don't be shy, contact the Mayor John Marchione's office at mayor@redmond.gov. He's the one who appoints the commissioners.
By Bob Yoder
DigiPen gets new campus, teaching kids game development
DigiPen gets new campus, teaching kids game development
DigiPen Institute of Technology, the Redmond college dedicated to training game developers, is about to get bigger.
The privately owned school is creating a new campus in a former Microsoft building on Willows Road in Redmond with more than 100,000 square feet of space. It's announcing the plan Friday, moving in the summer and starting classes there in the fall.
DigiPen is planning to use the new space to expand its degree programs and the science and technology education programs it offers to high school students in the region." more
By Brier Dudley
Brier Dudley's Blog
Seattle Times Newspaper
DigiPen Institute of Technology, the Redmond college dedicated to training game developers, is about to get bigger.
The privately owned school is creating a new campus in a former Microsoft building on Willows Road in Redmond with more than 100,000 square feet of space. It's announcing the plan Friday, moving in the summer and starting classes there in the fall.
DigiPen is planning to use the new space to expand its degree programs and the science and technology education programs it offers to high school students in the region." more
By Brier Dudley
Brier Dudley's Blog
Seattle Times Newspaper
Letter: School District should be happy with Juanita HS and not think of tearing it down.
Redmond Neighborhood Blog: Editorial: Three smart reasons to vote YES on L.W. School District levy and bond measures.
LETTER: Anonymous said...
Proposition No. 3 on the February 9, 2010 ballot authorizes the Lake Washington School District to "modernize" Juanita High School. To me, "modernize" means to remodel, but to the District, "modernize" means to tear down and rebuild. We have been told that it would cost more to remodel than to rebuild. I find this hard to believe. When the economy was doing well, voters approved bond measures to replace the oldest schools and build new schools to ease overcrowding. At some point the District decided that the normal life of a school is 30-40 years and set up a schedule to replace all school buildings within the district. By the District's definition, Juanita High School, at age 39 is at the end of its useful life.
Juanita High School is located in Kirkland near Juanita Bay. It has two large buildings: a 129,000 sq.ft. school building and a 74,000 sq.ft. field house that contains a gym and a pool. Both buildings were constructed in 1971. The pool and the portable near the east side of the building may have some major maintenance issues, but otherwise, both main buildings appear to be in good condition. School districts around the country would love to have a 39-year-old building like Juanita High School and wouldn't think of tearing it down. When did we become so extravagant to think that JHS is too old and useless?
According to the District's "Capital Facilities Plan 2009-2014", Juanita High School has 52 standard classrooms and 8 portable classrooms that can hold 32 students each. Using 60 classrooms with 32 students per class, Juanita High School can accommodate 1920 students (although the District assumes utilization of each class at 70% to account for teacher planning areas.) Even with the teacher planning areas, JHS can hold 1350 students and that's more than enough room for the additional 300 ninth graders who will be included when the school is converted to the 9-12 grade model.
The main argument I've seen to justify tearing down Juanita High School is so that it will be as new as Redmond High School (2003) and Lake Washington High School (2011). Can we keep spending and building so that everyone is going to a new school? Did the last decade with our "building boom" condition us to believe that we had to tear down and rebuild because everything wasn't brand new or the configuration wasn't quite right? We need to see some more creative problem-solving from the District that doesn't automatically require tear-downs.
I do support Propositions 1 & 2, but I cannot justify approving $234,000,000 for Proposition 3, most of which will be spent to destroy a perfectly good building and then rebuild it. I will be voting: Prop1:YES, Prop2:YES, Prop3:NO
By Anonymous
February 1, 2010 11:14 AM
LETTER: Anonymous said...
Proposition No. 3 on the February 9, 2010 ballot authorizes the Lake Washington School District to "modernize" Juanita High School. To me, "modernize" means to remodel, but to the District, "modernize" means to tear down and rebuild. We have been told that it would cost more to remodel than to rebuild. I find this hard to believe. When the economy was doing well, voters approved bond measures to replace the oldest schools and build new schools to ease overcrowding. At some point the District decided that the normal life of a school is 30-40 years and set up a schedule to replace all school buildings within the district. By the District's definition, Juanita High School, at age 39 is at the end of its useful life.
Juanita High School is located in Kirkland near Juanita Bay. It has two large buildings: a 129,000 sq.ft. school building and a 74,000 sq.ft. field house that contains a gym and a pool. Both buildings were constructed in 1971. The pool and the portable near the east side of the building may have some major maintenance issues, but otherwise, both main buildings appear to be in good condition. School districts around the country would love to have a 39-year-old building like Juanita High School and wouldn't think of tearing it down. When did we become so extravagant to think that JHS is too old and useless?
According to the District's "Capital Facilities Plan 2009-2014", Juanita High School has 52 standard classrooms and 8 portable classrooms that can hold 32 students each. Using 60 classrooms with 32 students per class, Juanita High School can accommodate 1920 students (although the District assumes utilization of each class at 70% to account for teacher planning areas.) Even with the teacher planning areas, JHS can hold 1350 students and that's more than enough room for the additional 300 ninth graders who will be included when the school is converted to the 9-12 grade model.
The main argument I've seen to justify tearing down Juanita High School is so that it will be as new as Redmond High School (2003) and Lake Washington High School (2011). Can we keep spending and building so that everyone is going to a new school? Did the last decade with our "building boom" condition us to believe that we had to tear down and rebuild because everything wasn't brand new or the configuration wasn't quite right? We need to see some more creative problem-solving from the District that doesn't automatically require tear-downs.
I do support Propositions 1 & 2, but I cannot justify approving $234,000,000 for Proposition 3, most of which will be spent to destroy a perfectly good building and then rebuild it. I will be voting: Prop1:YES, Prop2:YES, Prop3:NO
By Anonymous
February 1, 2010 11:14 AM
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Editorial: Three smart reasons to vote YES on L.W. School District levy and bond measures.
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 smart thing to do. Schools are a great investment for our neighborhoods. We know that!
But, let's not lose sight that local businesses count on our schools for a vibrant, educated labor pool. "Being future ready " is more than about leaving town for college. Many students find their future right here, working for local businesses after graduation.
I have personal and financial reasons for supporting the levy and bond measures:
1) My daughter received a first class education (K-12) that prepared her for college. Her life was enriched by a long list of inspiring teachers, outside school activities, and friendships. I've always felt my kid was safe at school.
2) Even though my only child is graduating this year, I still look at the additional $170/year tax tab as a good investment. Why? If we don’t fund all three measures, the school system will lose the equivalent of 612 teachers, 30-year roofs and buildings will deteriorate and classrooms will overflow from the 1200 new students expected by 2014. We can expect no bail-out from the State - actually less from them!
3) If we let our schools go down the tube, so go the neighborhoods and our home values. I see the $170/year payment as "property value insurance protection." Without it, my home and largest asset may never fully bounce off this bottom.
Will you be voting Tuesday, Februrary 9? Please Vote YES on all three LWSD funding measures!
By Bob Yoder
Voter information about the District Levies and Bond is here.
Editorial: I'm going to vote YES for the school levies and bond this election because it's the smart thing to do. Schools are a great investment for our neighborhoods. We know that!
But, let's not lose sight that local businesses count on our schools for a vibrant, educated labor pool. "Being future ready " is more than about leaving town for college. Many students find their future right here, working for local businesses after graduation.
I have personal and financial reasons for supporting the levy and bond measures:
1) My daughter received a first class education (K-12) that prepared her for college. Her life was enriched by a long list of inspiring teachers, outside school activities, and friendships. I've always felt my kid was safe at school.
2) Even though my only child is graduating this year, I still look at the additional $170/year tax tab as a good investment. Why? If we don’t fund all three measures, the school system will lose the equivalent of 612 teachers, 30-year roofs and buildings will deteriorate and classrooms will overflow from the 1200 new students expected by 2014. We can expect no bail-out from the State - actually less from them!
3) If we let our schools go down the tube, so go the neighborhoods and our home values. I see the $170/year payment as "property value insurance protection." Without it, my home and largest asset may never fully bounce off this bottom.
Will you be voting Tuesday, Februrary 9? Please Vote YES on all three LWSD funding measures!
By Bob Yoder
Voter information about the District Levies and Bond is here.
Letter: 44 states in the nation spend more per student than Washington.
Redmond Neighborhood Blog: LETTER: Lake Washington School District needs to stay within budget.:
"We moved out of a local community whose school district was just 'teaching the basics' and we chose LWSD for their ability to 'meet the challenges of the future'. As families, we were asked to provide all the same type of basic materials there that we are here- paper, pencils, reading materials, etc. Only there- they had very little focus on technology so I doubt that a thumb drive was even used. They instead had to focus education dollars on before and after school care, subsidized lunches and repair and replacement of the countless stolen equipment and damaged or vandalized property weekly. I am glad to be in the LWSD, and I am glad and confident that my money will work harder for their education here than it did there.
The real flaws come from how our state funds education and that there could be such differences in public schools just 50 miles apart. When there are 44 states in the nation that spend more per student than Washington, there is a problem. When library books and librarians are not considered 'basic education' under state definition- there is a problem. When computers and transportation to and from school are not considered 'basic'- there is a problem. The problem is not within LWSD, it is a statewide problem of not funding basic education as promised in the state constitution."
- anonymous
1/29/2010
Comments? School Board member(s) are cordially invited and encouraged to send their Letters for publishing to redmondblog@gmail.com
"We moved out of a local community whose school district was just 'teaching the basics' and we chose LWSD for their ability to 'meet the challenges of the future'. As families, we were asked to provide all the same type of basic materials there that we are here- paper, pencils, reading materials, etc. Only there- they had very little focus on technology so I doubt that a thumb drive was even used. They instead had to focus education dollars on before and after school care, subsidized lunches and repair and replacement of the countless stolen equipment and damaged or vandalized property weekly. I am glad to be in the LWSD, and I am glad and confident that my money will work harder for their education here than it did there.
The real flaws come from how our state funds education and that there could be such differences in public schools just 50 miles apart. When there are 44 states in the nation that spend more per student than Washington, there is a problem. When library books and librarians are not considered 'basic education' under state definition- there is a problem. When computers and transportation to and from school are not considered 'basic'- there is a problem. The problem is not within LWSD, it is a statewide problem of not funding basic education as promised in the state constitution."
- anonymous
1/29/2010
Comments? School Board member(s) are cordially invited and encouraged to send their Letters for publishing to redmondblog@gmail.com
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Yearly count finds fewer homeless in King County
Yearly count finds fewer homeless in King County:
"Castle and nearly 1,000 other volunteers canvassed King County early Friday as part of the county's One Night Count of the homeless not living in shelters.
The 30th annual count, conducted between 2 and 7 a.m., revealed that despite a deep recession, about 5 percent fewer people were living on the county's streets than a year ago." read complete story
short clip of homeless
By Brian Rosenthal
Seattle Times staff reporter
"Castle and nearly 1,000 other volunteers canvassed King County early Friday as part of the county's One Night Count of the homeless not living in shelters.
The 30th annual count, conducted between 2 and 7 a.m., revealed that despite a deep recession, about 5 percent fewer people were living on the county's streets than a year ago." read complete story
short clip of homeless
By Brian Rosenthal
Seattle Times staff reporter
#####
Redmond City Councilmember John Stilin participated in the annual count.
Jan. 29: Include voting in your weekend plans
Jan. 29: Include voting in your weekend plans:
Voters who have already returned their ballots can track its progress as it is processed at https://info.kingcounty.gov/elections/mailballottracking.aspx.
To be counted, mail ballots must be postmarked by Tuesday, February 9, Election Day.
We check the signature on every ballot that is returned. Be sure to use your legal, professional signature and not simply your initials, as this is checked against your signature on file.
Voters who have not received their ballot should call 206-296-VOTE (8683). For more information on the February 9 election, visit http://www.kingcounty.gov/eltions/ ."
- King County Elections
Voters who have already returned their ballots can track its progress as it is processed at https://info.kingcounty.gov/elections/mailballottracking.aspx.
To be counted, mail ballots must be postmarked by Tuesday, February 9, Election Day.
We check the signature on every ballot that is returned. Be sure to use your legal, professional signature and not simply your initials, as this is checked against your signature on file.
Voters who have not received their ballot should call 206-296-VOTE (8683). For more information on the February 9 election, visit http://www.kingcounty.gov/eltions/ ."
- King County Elections
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