Redmond bank robber takes the money and runs

Redmond bank robber takes the money and runs 

Redmond, WA – Washington Federal on the 16900 block of Redmond Way was robbed shortly before 9:45 a.m. this morning.

The suspect passed a note demanding money and implying he had a gun.  There was no weapon shown and there were no injuries.  The weapon is described as:

Ethnicity:  White, dark complexion  Sex:  Male    Height:  6’0” Weight:  230   Clothing:  Purple bandanna, old school Mariners royal blue hat, gray sweatshirt, blue jeans    Other:  Mustache, scruffy chin hair

Anyone with information is asked to call Redmond Police at 425-556-2546.  

By Jim Bove
Redmond Community Outreach Facilitator

What's the most important transportation issue facing Redmond?, By Candidate Sue Stewart, Pos. 7

Sue Stewart
Council Candidate Pos. 7

This is third post in a series covering the four questions from the recent City of Redmond Chamber of Commerce candidate forum.

Question: What is the most important transportation issue facing Redmond and how would you address it?

Having an effective and efficient transportation system is vital to our entire community. We need to have the ability to move goods and services to our businesses and then residents to these businesses. We will need to connect our urban centers and then outward to the region. How do we accomplish this? We will need a network of complete streets, parking management, and improved transit services.

To improve transit, we will need to continue to assert ourselves with Metro and Sound Transit to insure we get our fair share of transit. As someone with 30 years of transit experience, I bring a depth of knowledge to the table that Redmond can use to fight to make sure we have the right service at the right time. I also know what a network of complete streets should look like to enable efficient movement about town both for our residents and for future transit. Parking management means having ample spots for people to park once and then be able to walk about the community from place to place.

By Sue Stewart, Pos. 7

UPDATE: 60 shoppers turn out for School District Surplus sale

UPDATE, 11/10 -- We stopped by the warehouse at 11:30, just before closing out of curiosity and to see if there was anything good for the pickings. Not.

George Walker - the friendly and helpful warehouseman gave us the complete run-down, as follows: 35 shoppers were lined up outside the warehouse before opening at 7:30AM. One person camped out the night before. (Confirmed by two LWSD warehouseman). Just over 60 purchases were made.

According to state law - outlying school districts and private schools get first dibs on the merchandise. Sutlan School District picked up all the netbooks and carts. Seattle School district was the number two buyer, followed by Faith Lutheran School on Ed. Hill. The Kimball piano was picked up by an LW district el. school. Most of the many remaining desktop computers will go to Mars Recycling. Book brokers will bid on the thousands of remaining books. Most of the kitchen and workshop stuff was junky and remained.

Auctions were held up until about 6 years ago (though auctions still take place for LWHS and Finn Hill JH). George said, "I hold items before the sale that I think the district could use."  (folding tables, etc.)

B.Y.

View Larger Map

SURPLUS FURNITURE, EQUIPMENT, & MATERIAL SALE

This Sale is Open to the General Public

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Preview 7:30 - 8:00

Sale Hours  8:00 - 12:00 Noon
Warehouse Annex
15130 NE 95th Street, Redmond, WA.

Goods must be removed between 12:00 Noon - 1:00 PM

Please Contact George Walker, Warehouse Manager if you have any questions.

425-936-1140

A flyer with this Surplus Sale announcement was distributed a couple of days ago to school facilites by the Administration.  There's no announcement on the district website, at this time.   I'm publishing this for the community so they can plan for the sale, too.   Share this news with your friends!  B.Y.

LW School Board seeks public input on next Superintendent

Lake Washington School Board seeks public input on new superintendent.

The Lake Washington School District Board of Directors is embarking on its process to find a successor to Dr. Chip Kimball, who will be leaving after this school year.

As the first step, the board is asking parents and community members to provide input into what they should look for in candidates for that position. School Board President Jackie Pendergrass says:

“Finding the right individual to lead our school district is among the most important tasks we do as a school board.  We have several very important initiatives underway as a district, such as the change in grade configuration of our schools. Given these challenges, we are trying to determine the kind of leader who will best help us complete that work.”  Read More >>

State Audit triggers Evergreen Commission to strengthen oversight of levy-funded services

Charles Pilcher
Evergreen Hosp.commissioner

In early July, the State Auditor's Office gave the Evergreen Administration notice of a 2010 Accountability Audit including the Levy. 

This triggered the Board to take action on key Levy items in their July 6, Board meeting.   The Minutes state, "Commissioner Pilcher is concerned about oversight of levy-funded services and would like to see that strengthened." 

Commissioner Greenfield commented "that levy programs should be able to answer the questions of how they are making the community healthier, what is the measure and rate of change, and are they supporting the strategic objectives of Evergreen?"

Commissioner Hirt commented, "that while the number of beneficiaries is important, program effectiveness is also key."  Ms. Hirt is taking a more active role on the Levy Committee. 

Ms. Laurene H. Burton, Administrative Director,* presented the draft of a new "Levy Committee Charter" on July 19, 2011.  The Charter bolsters oversight of the Levy by identifying and formalizing the Levy Committee purpose, composition, responsibilities and duties.  The Commission was operating without a Levy Charter up until July, 2011. Read More >>

LW School District Administration publishes less restrictive Pet Policy.

The Lake Washington School District Administration writes....

"In order to manage the risks associated with the presence of dogs on district property, the following restrictions applies to dogs on school grounds and in buildings:

No dogs are allowed on district property between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. on any school day, except for bona fide service dogs. No dogs are permitted in district athletic stadiums at any time, except for bona fide service dogs.

*At all other times dogs must be leashed and controlled by owners. Owner must clean up after their dogs and remove waste from district premises.

Service animals and guide dogs are allowed on district property in accordance with state law. The definition of a guide dog and service animal are found in RCW 49.60.040 (8) and (24)."

-- Entire Pet Policy is here:  LWSD website, Administrative Policy, Adopted 8/29/2011

* Previous Administrative Pet Policy restricted dogs on leash after school hours when students (children) were present.  According to the Administration (10/6) new Pet Policy signs will be posted at every school after they are made.  The School Board doesn't vote on Administrative Policies.  B.Y.

UPDATED: Flynn wins key city council endorsements for Richard Cole's position.

(l-r)  Council President Richard Cole, Councilman Hank Margeson, Council Vice President Pat Vache'

UPDATED:  Council President Richard Cole (left) is retiring after 24 years on city council.   Richard was elected in 1988 after a stint as Chair of the Planning Commission.  Mr. Cole has been very active on growth management issues over the years as an Executive Board member on the Puget Sound Regional Council.

Candidates Tom Flynn and Joel Wright are running for Richard's open position, #5.  Councilmembers Hank Margeson (center) and Pat Vache' (right) are endorsing Mr. Flynn for the position.

Councilman Hank Margeson of Education Hill, is running unopposed this year. Hank has taken over some of the work Mr. Cole did on Suburban Cities Association.  Hank is smart, well-liked, and a passionate councilman for our Region.   No one works harder with such zeal and joy as Margeson. 

Opinion By Yoder
Photo by Yoder during a city council "Study Session" in City Hall 

Is the race between Carson and Stewart non-partisan?

David Carson and Sue Stewart campaign signs are at "opposite poles" 

Sue Stewart is endorsed by the 45th District Democrats. - Sue's website
David Carson was sworn* into city council office in 1998 by Republican King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert. 

*Historically and traditionally Redmond elected officials are sworn into office by the city attorney.

"Redmond has a strong Mayor/Council, non-partisan form of government.

The City Council adopts the City budget, establishes law and policy, approves appropriations and contracts, levies taxes and grants franchises."

  -- City of Redmond website

Dave Carson endorsements, Pos. 7
Sue Stewart endorsements, Pos. 7

Posted and Photo By Yoder

Sue Stewart rated "Very Good" by Muni-League for Redmond Council, Pos. 7

Muni-League rates Sue Stewart, Pos. 7 "Very Good" after interviews

Challenger Sue Stewart, Pos 7

Describe your most important personal characteristics or traits as they relate to the office you seek. M.L.

I am a consensus builder. I am able to analyze and drill down to the core elements of what is needed and help broker a solution through a collaborative process.

Please describe, in sufficient detail, one to three accomplishments or contributions of which you are most proud. These examples should illustrate skills and capabilities you think apply to the office you are seeking. These accomplishments may have occurred at any time in your personal, professional, or public life. M.L.

"There are three contributions I am proud to have accomplished and which I believe demonstrate my readiness to serve on the Redmond City Council.

o As a Safety Officer, I am keenly aware of the importance of reducing risk and injury to our employees. The City of Redmond was considering a significant change to the building code to require sprinkler systems in all new home construction, a first in the state of Washington. Using my knowledge of loss control and the associated risks of being a fire responder, Read More >>

What's up with Tom Flynn's "Highest Rated" campaign sign?

Mr. Flynn is advertising his "higher Muni League rating" over opponent Mr. Wright, Pos. 5

The "Highest Rated" tag on Tom Flynn's campaign sign is referring to his Municipal League of King County's candidate rating outcome.  Mr. Flynn is rated "Very Good" by the Muni-League whereas, his opponent Joel Wright is rated "Adequate."

According to the Municipal League, Tom Flynn is rated "Very Good" because he "is a skilled builder of consensus, inspires confidence in the way he would serve, is thorough and attentive to issues." 

Whereas, Joel Wright is rated "Adequate" because he "has a record of participation and interest, is effective on specific issues, has provoked questions about suitability as an office holder, will need significant time/energy to fill gaps in knowledge."

Tom Flynn's Muni-League rating (Pos. 5) isn't higher than Sue Stewart's rating (Pos. 7).  They are both rated "Very Good."   Tom is just comparing his rating with Joel's. 

Sue Stewart's opponent, Dave Carson Pos. 7 was rated "Good."  On August 8, 2011, Mr. Carson wrote:

 "I did not participate with the Municipal League’s rating interview or their questionnaire this  year. I believe them to be less-than-impartial and a complete waste of my time."

The Municipal League is "a volunteer-driven, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that works toward better government in King County, Washington.  Their mission is to promote government that is open, effective and accountable, and to improve the caliber of public officials and the quality of public decisions."


"The League pursues its mission for Candidate ratings with Candidate Evaluation Committees (CEC)
Each CEC conducts the equivalent of a job interview with candidates for public office throughout King County and rates them on their capacity to serve effectively. Every year roughly 75 volunteers give their time to follow the League's well-established system of rating candidates which is based on effectiveness, knowledge, involvement and character. The results are published in a Voters Guide that reaches tens of thousands of voters."
  --The Muni-League Board of Directors:  http://www.munileague.org/about-us/board

Joel Wright's endorsements:  http://wrightforredmond.com/content.php?pg=1
Tom Flynn's endorsements:  http://tomflynnforcouncil.com/endorsements/

Posted By Yoder

RNB isn't endorsing candidates this election though, as a voting resident I'm expressing my personal opinion on candidates.  

A Responsible and Sustainable Budget, By David Carson, Pos. 7



A Responsible and Sustainable Budget

David voted against the 1% property tax increase that passed the council because he felt supporting a budget which relied on the 1% to balance was not intellectually consistent. However, overall the work done by the council is a good body of work to reign in the growth of local government while still addressing the priorities of Redmond.

By instituting the Budgeting by Priorities (BP) process, the council came up with a plan that did require scrutiny and real evaluation of the communities’ priorities. On the whole, he believes that the council passed a landmark budget (minus the tax increase) and this process is getting better with the experience of the first two budget cycles. Redmond has a structurally-balanced budget that extends 6 years into the future which few cities can boast.

 -David Carson's Campaign website

Incumbent David Carson's Endorsements, Pos. 7 
Challenger Sue Stewart's Endorsements, Pos. 7

Redmond Neighborhood Blog isn't endorsing a Candidate for Pos. 7

Chamber question: What role should the city have in economic development? By Sue Stewart, Pos 7

Chamber question: What role should the city have in economic development? Elect Sue Stewart:

This is the second post in a series covering the four questions from the recent City of Redmond Chamber of Commerce candidate forum.

Question: What role should the city have in the economic development?

The City must continue to provide ample infrastructure such as accomodations for transit, utilities and completing and enhancing its network of roads and sidewalks. The changes coming to downtown have started in earnest, like the connection of 161st NE between Redmond Way and Cleveland Street. The next step will include returning Redmond Way and Cleveland to two-way. Combine these improvements with replacing missing sidewalks and working with METRO to bring about the service that connects us both inside and outside our community, and we will maintain our role as an Eastside transportation hub. Read More >>

Sue Stewart's Endorsements

By Sue Stewart
Redmond City Council Challenger Pos. 7

Incumbent David Carson's Endorsements Pos 7
Redmond Neighborhood Blog isn't endorsing a candidate for Pos. 7

Redmond Council Candidate Joel Wright notes his issues. Pos. 5

Joel Wright, Pos. 5

Budgeting by Priorities – The City of Redmond’s financial priorities should be responsive to the community’s essential needs, while considering existing economic conditions. Ensure transparent, rational revenue structure and efficient use of City resources.

Safe, Quality Neighborhoods – Ensure first responders (police, fire, and ambulance services) are sufficiently funded and properly prioritized to provide effective service. Well maintained roads, sidewalks, parks and infrastructure. Inspire civic connection through community service and emergency preparedness (i.e., Community Emergency Response Teams - CERT).

Strong Economy – Encourage coordinated efforts of government, business, non-government organizations (NGO) and individual residents to ensure Redmond continues as a diverse, productive community and provides opportunity for constant improvement.

Regulation – More deference should be accorded private and business property owners regarding their own property. While protecting environmental, safety and community concerns, where necessary, regulations and the permitting process should be modified to be more reasonable and less burdensome.

Transportation – Develop and maintain effective and efficient multi-modal transportation and traffic management solutions responsive to current and long term community priorities and resources. I support extending Sound Transit’s rail line into downtown Redmond to the extent the cost is commensurate with the long term benefits received.

Red Light Traffic Enforcement Cameras – I oppose using cameras for red light traffic enforcement and I support their removal after the pilot program concludes.

ENDORSEMENTS for Wright as of 10/8:  22 citizens
 
- Joel Wright's campaign website Pos. 5 
Candidate Tom Flynn's endorsements and positions on issues. Pos. 5

PUBLIC FORUM: Involuntary Treatment of family members needing mental care.

2011 Nami Walk in Kirkland

A FREE EDUCATIONAL FORUM OPEN TO PUBLIC

"THE INVOLUNTARY TREATMENT ACT PROCESS

BY DESIGNATED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS"

Guest: JoEllen Watson, LICSW, PH. D

Date: Tuesday, October 18, 2011, 7 PM - 9 PM

 Evergreen Hospital, Suite Tan 100 - Directions

12303 NE 130th Lane

Kirkland, WA 98034

JoEllen Watson, Ph. D. is the Coordinator of King County’s Crisis & Commitment Services. She has worked in emergency services at Harborview and Swedish Medical Centers. As a "Designated Mental Health Professional" (DMHP), Dr. Watson is involved in making the decision as to whether or not a person should be involuntarily committed, voluntarily hospitalized or other less restrictive alternatives. In this presentation she will talk about: the Involuntary Treatment Act process, role of the DHMP, current board crisis and the increase in detention rates in the last few years.

This is your opportunity to learn more about the system.
Join us! This event is FREE and open to EVERYONE!
PHONE: 425-885-NAMI (6264)

WEB: http://www.nami-eastside.org/  E-MAIL: INFO@NAMI-EASTSIDE.ORG

U.S. News and World Report ranks best high schools in our area

US News and World Report publishes 2011 Special Edition of Colleges and High School rankings 

Two schools in the Lake Washington School District were awarded honors:  International School-Kirkland (a Choice school) and Redmond High School. 

International School - Kirkland was awarded a Gold Medal for "College Readiness" and ranked #8 in "Science and Math."   Redmond High School achieved a Silver Medal for "College Readiness" and ranked  #151 for "Science and Math,"

I.  "We looked at the nearly 600 schools that qualified for the Gold, Silver, and Honorable Mention lists of the U.S. News Best High Schools and then evaluated their students' participation rates and performances on AP® exams in "Science and Math."   The following are schools that performed the best in Science and Math in our local area:

Science and Math - Local Area Rankings:  #8 International School -Kirkland,  #17 International School,  #42 Newport,  #68 Bainbridge,  #76 Bellevue,  #151 Redmond High School.

II.  "We looked at more than 21,000 public high schools in 48 states and the District of Columbia. The following are the local schools in our local area that performed with the best ranking index for "College Readiness."


Gold Medal - Local Area "Best High Schools ranked for College Readiness":  #10 International School - Bellevue, #29 International School - Kirkland, #72 Newport, #78 Bellevue.

Silver Medal - Local Area "Best High Schools indexed for College Readiness":  Garfield (58), Roosevelt (45),  Redmond High (43), Interlake  (41), Mercer Island (41)  Issaquah (35),  Woodinville (29),  Inglemoor (41).

III.  "We looked at the top schools with the highest Asian-American population."  #10 International School-Bellevue, #29 International School-Kirkland, #72 Newport, #78 Bellevue. 

-- US News & World Report, October, 2011
Photo US News & World Report

Introduction to LWSD Special Ed Department with Paul Vine, Director -- "Helping the Behaviorily Challenged Child"

Introduction to LWSD Special Ed Department

Meet the Lake Washington School District Special Education Director, Paul Vine.

Tuesday, September 27  7 – 9 pm

 LWSD Resource Building

16250 NE 74th St, Redmond

(Redmond Town Center)

He will have a PowerPoint presentation reviewing the department structure, the Ladder of Support, discuss new initiatives for the year and any other changes in the Special Education programs. He will also be introducing his team and have a brief Question and Answer time. After Paul's presentation we will share happenings within our group, share resources and network with other parents and teachers.

#####

NEW SERIES:  Helping the Behaviorally Challenging Child
 
6 Week Series of Classes starting Thursday, September 29th & ending November 3rd.  Register by Monday, September 26th, 2011
 
“This wonderful class has profoundly changed the relationship with me and my son – my husband, too. We talk more. He tantrums less. And he feels empowered – he owns the solutions and therefore works hard to carry it out. Thanks for teaching this class with such passion!” – Emily S
 
This 6 session program teaches parents & caregivers to understand and communicate with children in order to solve behavioral problems and build skills. This method works for children with many different disabilities, and also for children with no disability. It has been used successfully with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Oppositional Defiance and many more. Weekly email consultation is included to address individual concerns.   Read More >>

Brief History of Patsy Rosenbach - Redmond native and 1958 Lake Washington H.S. Grad

 1955 - Football Crowd and Cheer leaders at LWHS/Credit Historical Society

An abbreviated history of the life of Patsy Rosenbach, Redmond native and Lake Washington High School graduate, class of '58.

I grew up on "Education Hill" before it was Education Hill. It was a dirt road that had huge washouts annually.  It's NE 166th AV. NE, but back then 3rd Avenue.  Redmond continues to have my loyalty. I have never lived farther than 10 miles away. I truly enjoy the fellowship at our annual “Golden Grads Reunions” of Lake Washington High School (LWHS), my alma mater. We just had our 2011 Golden Grad Reunion last month.  (Read More about it below!)  In my school days, LWHS housed students from Redmond, Kirkland, and Juanita.

A little family history: I'm the youngest graduate in my class of ‘58. I learned how to read, spell, and do arithmetic before I entered school and graduated at 16. My dad was blind and an invalid, but he taught me and my older sister before we entered school. Our older brother suffered a severe reaction to a small pox vaccination as a youngster, and had to have his books sent home with him to continue his studies.

I went to the first grade, as there was no kindergarten offered that year (the taxpayers had to vote it in and they declined that year). Three weeks later I was sent to a combined first and second grade room with Mrs. Shobert.

What did Redmond look like? Nothing like today! Read More >>

Redmond Council Candidate Tom Flynn lays out the issues - Position 5

Tom Flynn
City Council Candidate, Pos 5

For Redmond to thrive as a livable community, especially through expected growth and change, it will be vital for the city to have policies that retain the beauty of our natural environment, support economic development, and build on connections in the community. 

Natural Environment:

Rivers, Streams, Native Growth, Wetlands, Parks, Sustainable Energy

Redmond has a wealth of natural areas including the Redmond Watershed Preserve, the Sammamish River, salmon spawning Bear Creek, and numerous areas of native growth and wetlands. Our residents also benefit from a wide variety of city parks spread throughout the city’s neighborhoods. And we need to keep working on reducing our energy use and our carbon footprint. By preserving these natural resources, we will make Redmond a desirable place to live for many generations. I will work to support strong policies and programs to support our natural environment and sustainable energy.

Strong Economy:

Local Business, Innovation, Education, Arts and Culture   Read More >>

Who's a good "write-in" candidate for Evergreen Hospital Commissioner, Position #3

Evergreen Commissioner  Kempf

RNB responds to an engaged hospital district citizen who emailed for a "write-in" alternative to Commissioner Kempf.   (for background on Kempf visit this post)

OPINION:   RNB can't name a specific "write-in" challenger to Evergreen Commissioner Kempf, Position #3, though Reader recommendations can be posted in the comments section.

My ideal candidate has financial skill-sets, is passionate and knowledgeable about Evergreen Healthcare, responsible and accountable to the taxpayer, desires a community hospital rather than one built around specialists, encourages Open Government wherein meetings are video-taped (as is Valley Hospital, Renton), allocates 60% levy monies to community health and wellness and 40% or less for growth and debt service, and is strong enough to challenge the Administration appropriately and catalyze the five-member Board from "cheerleaders" to governors.

I'm not certain if it's realistic a qualified write-in will rise at this late date, but terms are 6-years so elections occur with regularity.  Candidates are currently spawned but the "Evergreen Advisers". "I talked to a prominent Redmond business person and Advisor.  She said if "you had one problem or issue with Evergreen you wouldn't qualify for the program."   Evergreen governance and community system appears "inward," clubby and close-minded.   A commissioner attends Advisor meetings once a month, but Advisors never attend public commission meetings to give input.  Since I've been covering Evergreen, they replaced the Advisor staff member with Laurene Burton, Administrative Director, Community Affairs and Governance (and executive secretary to the CEO.)  Ms. Burton is also the Public Records Officer, professional and cordial.  She takes Public Records requests by email and screens Board emails.

Some background:   Evergreen has a strong influence over the Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce over the years.  Mr. Kempf  has been the Chamber Membership Chair for years. An executive from Redmond's Columbia Bank was past-President and a lauded Evergreen Advisor.  A senior executive from Evergreen is current President.  Dr. Appleton, Evergreen ER Assist. Director and past Redmond councilman ran for office against Mayor Ives. He left Evergreen last year for the V.A Medical Center.  Our Chamber of Commerce has lost significant membership since Kempf took over and is currently repositioning under One Redmond.

I hope district citizens are encouraged to run for election.  For Kempf's position (No 3)  the candidate must live in Redmond or Sammamish.

Opinion By Bob Yoder
Editor, RNB

Note:  Commissioner Jeanette Greenfield's position (No 5) is "at large" and a candidate may reside anywhere in the hospital district. Ms. Greenfield is the sole commissioner on the Levy Standing Committee.  She's an operations specialist for U.S. Bank.

OPINION: Seattle Times article a "must read" on tolling Initiative 1125 controversy

520 bridge

OPINION:   At the Oct. 4 council meeting Redmond Mayor Marchione  OPPOSED Initiative 1125, as he addressed council before their vote on a Resolution on the initiative:   

"520 is an economic lifeline to the city of Redmond. It's in the direct interests of the City of Redmond and our economic development and our community; and the Resolution be opposed and take the leadership required."

The Redmond City Council majority followed the Mayor and voted AGAINST an endorsement Initiative 1125 (5-2).  Incumbents David Carson and Hank Myers made a political vote FOR the Resolution to endorse Initiative 1125. 

David Carson is challenged by Sue Stewart for Redmond City Council Pos. 7.

According to the TIMES, the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce is AGAINST Initiative 1125 (which is significant in that "one of Bellevue's most prominent businessmen, Kemper Freeman, is the biggest backer of I-1125, contributing more than $1 million to the campaign.).  

SEATTLE TIMES REPORT:  Local News Eyman challenges state's route on tolls Seattle Times Newspaper

By Andrew Garber, 10/1/2011
Seattle Times Olympia bureau

OLYMPIA — Tim Eyman and state officials agree on one thing: His tolling initiative on the November ballot would upend state plans for reducing traffic congestion and financing costly highway construction, including the Highway 520 floating-bridge project.

Eyman says Initiative 1125 would make lawmakers more accountable for raising and spending billions of dollars in tolls, and would make tolling fairer by banning variable-rate tolls that he says hit the state's poorest residents the hardest.

But it also would undermine long-term efforts, state transportation officials say, to find an alternative to gas taxes to help finance highway construction.  READ MORE >> 

Opinion By Bob Yoder
Internet photo - Cascadia

Muslim mosque community center opens in Redmond

Mayor John Marchione and other dignitaries were on hand last week to dedicate the opening of  the new Muslim Community Center and mosque in Redmond called "MAPS" for  "Muslim Association of Puget Sound" (MAPS).

Hyder Ali, the president of MAPS and manager in the communications department at Microsoft (in this video) calls the mosque a hub or community asset "not only for Muslims but for the communities they live in."  The mosque is located in a 35,000+ square foot commercial neighborhood building at 17550 NE 67th Court, Redmond, WA,  due east of the Marymoor Park Velodrome (see map ).

The MAPS Center places much emphasis on welcoming and enriching their youth.  Women membership is addressed in the By-Laws.  One lady in the video said she "appreciates the relatively progressive approach to women."   One man in the video described the Center as a mosque for prayer and center for social activities. 

It's a "hub" where, on your way to work,  you stop at the Center, pray, exercise, go to work, come back and pray with family and socialize. 

The Center hosts two lounges with computers and Internet, a library and education center.  The 3,000 square foot prayer area is expandable to 11,000 square feet.  Two gyms for exercise, one for each sex; and two daycare rooms (age 1-4 and 4-7) are available.


View Larger Map

Reported by Yoder
Video and Source:   MAPS website:  http://www.mapsredmond.org/

Redmond High struggling with construction, technology and size issues.

Principal Todd addressing School Board, 2010

"We have struggled with construction issues, technology issues and size issues since we opened...It's exceedingly rare to find an unused classroom during any period of the day...It still feels crowded in the lunchroom...How will next year feel?" 

-- Redmond High Principal Jane Todd, "Mustang Messenger," Oct. 2011. 

 "Mustang Messenger" letter from Jane Todd, Principal, Redmond High School, Lake Washington School District...

Dear Parents,

It has been a bit of a wonderful, but crazy wild ride since the first day of school. The students seem happy and engaged, and, as always, they are a delight to me whenever I get the chance to interact with them personally and directly. They give me reason to be proud of them as individuals and as a group on a daily basis. In class meetings, assemblies, during "surprise" fire drills (more on this in a bit), and even, more informally, at lunch and during passing periods, students have been respectful, positive and appropriately spirited. Our staff is having truly wonderful conversations in our planning to welcome both 9th and 10th graders about this time next year. We have treated this reconfiguration all along as an opportunity to strengthen what we already do well and to address areas where we can do better as we embark on the adventure of converting to a four-year high school. I believe we had one of the largest turnouts for Curriculum Night we have ever had, despite the last minute rescheduling.

On the other hand, we have struggled with construction issues, technology issues and size issues since we opened in the beginning of September. Counselors went home on a well-earned vacation at the end of June, with their students scheduled in all classes and returned in August to discover that the "upgrade" to one of technology systems had wiped out about half the work that had been completed. They had to recreate what they had done, and they had to check schedules for appropriate placements.  Read More >>

Revealing 5-Minute Speeches from City Council contestants: Stewart, Carson, Flynn and Wright

City of Redmond City Council Contested Races:

Candidates give 5 minute speeches.

Click blue links to select the candidate videos

David Carson vs. Sue Stewart - Pos 7

Tom Flynn vs.  Joel Wright - Pos. 5

Margeson, Myers and the Mayor are unopposed. 

2011 Annual Public Conference on Children with Mental Health Disorders

2011 Conference for Parents, Caregivers & Educators of Children with Mental Health Disorders

Saturday, October 15

Free of Charge

10:00am-3:45pm

Evergreen Hospital Medical Center (directions)

Forum rooms TAN 100 & 101

Kirkland, WA.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER 10:30 AM- 12 Noon
Dr. Christy Kimpo, Ph.D, LMHC, IMHS,  of Navos Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health
What is Infant Mental Health and how do early attachment relationships impact mental health across childhood?

Breakout session #1 1:00 – 3:30 PM
• Lara Okoloko, MSW, CDPT,  of Science and Management of Addictions (SAMA)
Drug Use Trends, Signs of Use and Prevention.

• Dr. Susan Cavalry, PhD, ARNP, BC of Therapeutic Health Services Encompass Program
An Integrated Treatment for Adolescents and Young Adults with Substance Use and Mental Health Disorders.

• Steve Anderson, MC, LMHC,  of Hartley Counseling & NAMI Support Group Facilitator
Helping Family Members Cope With Dual-Diagnosis

Breakout session #2 1:00 – 3:30 PM
• Dr. Gayle Fay, PhD, Neuropsychologist
Neuropsychology Assessments of Children

• Dr. Wendy Hutchins Cook, PhD, Clinical Psychologist
Assessments of Families in Crisis/Divorce

No childcare provided
Cafeteria on site for lunch (12-1), snacks and beverages provided

RSVP FORM AND DETAILS HERE
Space is limited Return RSVP form below to:
NAMI Eastside
16315 N.E. 87th Street, Suite B-3
Redmond, WA 98052
Internet photo - Child Psychiatry

Redmond Council Candidate Sue Stewart works to make Redmond a livelier place.

Challenger Sue Stewart
Education Hill Neighbor

from the desk of Sue Stewart, Redmond  City Council Candidate, Pos. 7...

"I recently participated in a candidate forum hosted by the Redmond Chamber of Commerce. We were asked to respond to four questions, and I wanted to share the questions, and my answers with you over the next week here as well.

How would you help make Redmond a livelier place?

Redmond is a great place to live, work, and play – we know that, but we can do better. The City of Redmond can help to promote places and activities that the community wants, like more dining choices, recreation, and entertainment. This is something that I have heard from my neighbors and friends who have suggested places like..>>

BREAKING: Lake Washington School District improves and updates pet policy. Posting new signs on all district schools.

Outdated  LWSD
Pet Policy Notice

BREAKING: 10/4/2011, 7:51 AM   The District improves and updates their pet policy!  New signs are on order and will be posted at all district schools.  Click this link to read the entire policy and administrative action!

http://www.lwsd.org/About/Policies-Regulations/Admin-Policies/school-community-relations/Pages/Dogs-on-District-Property.aspx .

###

BACKGROUND:  Last year I wrote the opinion below, asking the District to update and improve their pet policy and install new signs.
The recent "A Tree Gets Nailed" story prompted me to edit and republish the opinion today.  I copied  the LWPTSA Council and Administration.  Serendipity!   B.Y.  10/4

REPUBLISHED OPINION, 6/18/2010.  In 2010 my daughter and a friend were walking their small dog on-leash, near the sidewalk on Horace Mann property.  The principal at the time saw the kids and told them to remove the dog.  She cited school policy that leashed dogs aren't allowed on school property when children are present even if school is out.  The kids were surprised because they had their dog leashed with poop bags - just like the school sign warns.  Clearly, the district's Pet Policy signage mis-informs and confuses our youth.

When my daughter was going to Horace Mann in 1997-2004, the principal allowed leashed dogs inside the school. I asked Deputy Superintendent Janene Fogard for a copy of the district Pet Policy.  Instead, she gave me an updated Mann policy.  She didn't quote the enforceable King County law or informal school policy.  Two years  later, after multiple requests, Fogard gave me the current, legal policy, as follows:     

#1- King County code numbers are stamped on the Pet Signs.  County code "legally and enforce ably prohibits dogs from being allowed to run unleashed on school grounds."

 #2- The District adds language: "dogs are also not allowed on school grounds during the hours when school children are present - leashed or unleashed."  This language isn't posted on the Pet signs; it's unenforceable by the city and county.  This is a problem.

Many signs are old &
damaged.
 

City of Redmond and Kirkland Code stamped on the signs has since been repealed.  It can be removed, leaving space for "dogs forbidden when students present".   New signs could be phased into modernized schools and replace damaged ones to save money. This is a solution.

Unfortunately, parents, children and the public don't understand what the school policy is from these signs.  Students can be reprimanded and not know why.  School modernizations and remodels will need new signage.  Now is an excellent  time to phase in fair, accurate and clear pet policy signs.     

To see the entire pet policy read on.  Read More >>

OPINION: "Group Health Overlake Master Plan" could morph Overlake Neighborhood into a "glitzy urban center."

This is "the heart and soul" of Overlake urban center -- President Richard Cole

UPDATED OPINION:  Hold onto your hats.  Redmond residents are in for a ride of their life once "Group Health Overlake Master Plan" gets underway.  The ride could last for years - the roads dusty?   Patience with the flag men.  Will  "Avoid Overlake" tweet?   But, the potential for this district!  Oh, My!  All you have to do is live long enough. 

The mayor has many names for Overlake -- "a neighborhood," "a village," an "urban center" and the "glitzy part of Redmond."  Whichever name you choose Overlake is sure to be Redmond's urban mecca 20 years from now, leaving our current downtown, the "Old Redmond."

Last week, Redmond city planners presented council with an overview of the 28-acre "Group Health Overlake Master Plan."   Notice of Hearing.  A Hearing is scheduled for October 18th at 7:30 PM in City Hall.   Send your comments for the record to Associate Planner Denis Lisk by October 18. Email:  dwlisk@redmond.gov.   Or call 556-2400. City council  must approve this plan.

The development plan started years ago when Group Health closed their Redmond hospital, located at 15670 NE 85th Street - between 152th Ave and 156 Ave, two blocks north of NE 24th Street.

Group Health and the City of Redmond agreed on a long range development plan for the parcel.   Five types of projects will have to be permitted.  Phase One will develop 1.38 million square feet of office, hotel, and retail.  Most of the construction phase is on the north and east of the parcel, along 156th AVE and includes:

• 12-story, 180 room hotel and conference center (NE corner with underground parking).
• 4 - 10 story commercial office parks (north and SE corner) with landscaped courts and plazas.
• 25,000 s.f. ground floor retail  (on the west along 152nd Ave. -  might be included in this phase)
• 2.6 acre grassy park with pathway up the middle of the site.

Phase Two includes 1400 multi-family residential units in the NW and SW parcel areas.  Development progress depends on transportation infrastructure.  An SR 520 access ramp is crucial.  NE 26th Street construction and grid build-out is needed along with Sound Transit.


Group Health is in the background - trees are scattered between parking areas.

 TREES:  The site is located on hill rising from west to east and covered with 1050 trees scattered throughout the parking areas.  Enormous amounts of earth-moving, grading and clearing are necessary to make a "hardscape" suitable for building.   Underground parking garages will compound the work.  Large earth-moving equipment and trucks traveling local roads may be expected for several years at a time.  Read More >>

Evergreen Hospital Commissioner incumbent August Kempf copes with State audits during 2011 election

R. August Kempf, Commission Pos 3
Represents Redmond / Sammamish

Editor's Note:  In the October 2, 2011 election Mr. Kempf won 98% of the vote.  

Commissioner August Kempf's financial expertise hasn't appeared to help Evergreen resolve problematic annual state audits.  Should Commissioner Kempf oversee Evergreen Healthcare for another six years? 

Evergreen Hospital is a property-tax supported county hospital.   $24,153,945 in levy monies were collected last year from Redmond, Sammamish, Kirkland, Woodinville, Bothel, Duvall and other district property owners.  Most tax dollars fund debt service for growth; a modicum goes to "community healthline services."

"Five publicly elected hospital commissioners have the ultimate responsibility and accountability for the Evergreen district.  Citizens entrust their elected commissioners to approve major financial decisions and provide legal oversight of Evergreen."   But, do they?

R. August "Auggie" Kempf is an incumbent, running unopposed this year.  He's an 11 year commissioner for Evergreen  Hospital and he's asking the electorate for another 6 years on November 8.  If you live in Redmond or Sammamish, "Auggie" is your designated representative.  He runs an insurance, investment and financial planning firm in Redmond with probably the most financial skill sets of the five commissioners.  Mr. Kempf attended seven "Audit and Finance Committee Meetings" last year - more than four commissioners.

Mr. Kempf's financial expertise hasn't appeared to help the hospital pass annual state audits.  The State Auditor's Office (SAO) charged Evergreen in recent years with twice the serious audit "Findings," of Lake Washington School District and City of Redmond combined.   2009 was not a good year either.  The SAO reported 3 findings:

• the hospital was paying contracted staff hourly rates almost double their employed nurses.  SAO recommendations to reduce contracted nurses resulted in an estimated $7.5 million in savings.
• Evergreen collected $1.8 million in cash (deli, pharmacy, gift shop) in 2008.   SAO findings:  internal control weakness increase risk of misappropriation.  Status to be reviewed in 2010 audit.
• "Evergreen Healthcare did not comply with competitive bid laws on two projects totalling $1,223,856 in 2008.  In 2009 the SAO determined corrective actions were taken.

The more distant Audit History during Mr. Kempf's tenure is equally poor:  Read More >>

OPINION: Red Light Camera Controversary

OPINION:   I am frustrated by the constant disregard for the will of the citizens of Redmond which has been repeatedly shown by the current council and Mayor’s office over several issues. 

The most recent contempt shown over the petition and signatures submitted for Redmond Initiative 1, Red Light Cameras is inexcusable and without cause. RCW 35.21.005, which states: "Within three working days after the filing of a petition, the officer with whom the petition is filed shall transmit the petition to the county auditor for petitions signed by registered voters, or to the county assessor for petitions signed by property owners for determination of sufficiency."

COUNTER POINT:   "Mr Harlan and Mr. Eyman should take their complaint and go home," 09/2011

FREE HEART SCREENING EVENT! Cardiac Arrest leading cause of death in exercising athletes

from the desk of John Stockman, Redmond Fire Captain and Executive Board member of WSCFF 

FREE YOUTH HEART SCREENING!  This is an amazing FREE opportunity for Eastside area residents.

"Nick of Time Foundation"

 Free Youth Heart Screening Event

Wednesday October 5th, 2011~ 9am-5pm

**pre-screening orientation 8:30am sharp!

Redmond High School Gymnasium

17272 NE 104th Street

Redmond, WA 98052

"1 high school aged athlete suffers a sudden cardiac arrest every 3 days."
"Sudden Cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in exercising youth athletes"

As of today there are only 27 students signed up and we have room for 500.

Nick of Time Foundation will be offering free heart screens for students and athletes (ages 12-24) between 9am-4pm on Wednesday October 5th, 2011. Although this event will be hosted at Redmond High School in the Gymnasium, it is open to ALL youth regardless of enrollment. Please tell your teammates, coaches, and parents and teachers.  It is imperative for us to have coaches, teachers and parents on board to help promote and get the word out about the importance of this event. For more information or to register please email: appt@nickoftimefoundation.org  

To find additional heart screening events in Puget Sound this year visit http://www.nickoftimefoundation.org/

-- quotations from "Nick of Time Foundation" website.