Monday, September 30, 2024
Sunday, September 29, 2024
UPDATED, PART ONE: RHS 25th Anniversary Celebration / John Oftebro
 |
| Redmond Historical Society 25th Anniversary Celebration in the new Senior & Community Center |
President John Oftebro of the Redmond Historical Society (RHS) did a fabulous job producing, directing and emceeing the Redmond Historical Society 25th Anniversary Celebration and Social. Over 120 attended. The event was held on Saturday, October 28 at the new Redmond Senior and Community Center. John's an excellent fund-raiser and superlative jack-of-all trades.
Laura-Lee Bennett, the Executive V.P. oversaw the event. RHS Co-founder Miguel Llanos flew up from Los Angeles and gave a 30-minute interactive slide show. John Couch, Redmond's Park & Rec. Director of 30 years dressed-up as Mayor Bill Brown. Chris "Hurricane" Himes, Redmond's first Strong Mayor gave a charming, short speech. Former Mayor Rosemary Ives was on Block Island attending to her family.
Board member Deborah Oftebro assembled lead-members to work the coffee cake and cookie table: Judy Lang, Jo Ann Potter, Deb Akerstrom and a Morelli? My wife Pam and I got to sit with good friends, John Reinke, Gary Smith and Terry Lavender. John Reinke gave the entire audience a holler as he sang along.
Photo and story by Yoder
9/29/2024
PART TWO: RHS 25th Anniversary / Derby Day Parade
At the 25th anniversary celebration John Couch dressed up as Mayor Bill Brown
 |
| Parks Director of 30 Years John Couch begs RHS Founder Naomi Hardy to shovel manure in a Derby Days Parade CREDIT/ REDMOND HISTORICAL SOCIETY |
PART THREE: RHS 25th Anniversary Celebration / Bicycle Derby Days
Halee Turner, the RHS only paid worker (park time) worked the table-top exhibits.
Saturday, September 28, 2024
PART 4: "THIS PLACE MATTERS" - PERRIGO SPRINGS
 |
| Richard Morris and his dog stand on the spillway and two children holding a sign "This Place Matters." (click pic to enlarge) |
THIS PLACE MATTERS - PERRIGO SPRINGS
Perrigo Springs was Redmond's first "watering hole." Indians and early settlers first used the spring. "Daughters of the American Colonists" placed a 2004 rock marker and planted a Corkscrew tree near the spring.
Perrigo Springs was purchased by the Redmond Water Department in 1914 and was the first water supply for the newly incorporated town of Redmond. A dam (spillway) was originally constructed to impound the water for storage, with the transmission main a 4” to 8” wood stave pipe. This site was Redmond’s only water supply until 1927 and served as a major source of supply until 1962. Ref: Nao Hardy, 6/07.
The spring's water source is the Perrigo Creek wetland watershed. Perrigo Creek drains the Hartman wetland watershed. Its cooled water "springs up" into a shallow pond filled with natural stones. From there the spring water flows over a small concrete spillway into the creek below and continues downstream. Upper Perrigo Creek is a dry stream bed much of the time but the spring is active all year.
It's a quiet place. Children and small dogs playing on the spillway These children were floating cork boats. Musicians softly play their guitars while meditating by the Spring. Small families picnic nearby. The city monitors and maintains the Spring site.
This picture and story was submitted to the "National Trust for Historic Preservation contest named **THIS PLACE MATTERS."
-- Bob Yoder
June 2, 2009 ,
edited and reposted 9/28/2024
Friday, September 27, 2024
UPDATED 10/20/24: Miguel Llanos, Redmond Historical Society / 25th Anniversary Celebration
 |
| Miguel Llanos |
Miguel Llanos is seen orchestrating a "Redmond Historical Society (RHS) Speaker series" event / photo Yoder
I first met Miguel Llanos during the 2008 Perrigo Woodland (Ashford) Trail neighborhood demonstration march through the Perrigo Heights preliminary plat to save its woodlands from development. Council was inspecting the safety of the 40% steep slope sewer line at the time. Miguel set up an exhibit to educate citizens on the history of the woodlands.
Miguel was sworn into the Landmarks and Heritage Commission after Rep. Ross Hunter's Town Hall meeting. The commission meets when an owner of one of the 16 properties listed as historic by the city wants to make a change. or when a property owner wants to have their property added to list.
Miguel was a strong advocate for preserving Old Town and its 2-block row of historic "Perrigo Plat" Craftsman bungalow houses on 164th Street. The old Brown Bag Cafe bungalow on 164th was once owned by long-time Mayor Bill Brown (1913-1948) and did not meet the commission's historic criteria. [Same for the E.A. Walcher House, a 112+ year Craftsman-style bungalow on 8117-166th Ave. NE, also once owned by Bill Brown.]
Miguel was a strong advocate for preserving Old Town and its 2-block row of historic "Perrigo Plat" Craftsman bungalow houses on 164th Street. The old Brown Bag Cafe bungalow on 164th was once owned by long-time Mayor Bill Brown (1913-1948) and did not meet the commission's historic criteria. [Same for the E.A. Walcher House, a 112+ year Craftsman-style bungalow on 8117-166th Ave. NE, also once owned by Bill Brown.]
Miguel currently lives in Los Angeles with his family. He's in town for the Redmond Historical Society's 25th Anniversary Celebration and Social where he will give a 30-minute slide show. The Redmond Historical Society President John Oftebro did a fabulous job emceeing and directing the event.
Approximately 100 attended the event, including the first full-time Mayor Chris Himes and John Couch, Parks and Rec. Director of 30 years. Couch dressed up as Mayor Brown. Hilarious!
Bob Yoder
Updated 9/27/2024, Updated 10/20/2024
See a Video of city attorney Jim Haney swearing in Miguel to the Landmarks & Heritage Commission. 🙂
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
September Is "National Recovery Month."
 |
| Monique Gablehouse, EvergreenHealth COO of Post Acute Care |
Monique Gablehouse, MSW, LICSW. EvergreenHealth Hospital
Since 1989, Americans have observed National Recovery Month to increase public awareness of mental health and addiction recovery; draw attention to new evidence-based treatment; celebrate the recovery community; and acknowledge the dedication of service providers and communities that enable recovery.
There is evidence that stigma-related bias among clinicians can contribute to a treatment-averse mindset and to flawed clinical care. However, EvergreenHealth's organizational mission, vision and values inform and support the care we provide. We demonstrate a shared commitment to providing humane, evidence-based, patient-centered care.
In my role as COO of Post Acute Care with system responsibilities for Behavioral Health, I have had the honor of working with the executive team for the Recovery Center at EvergreenHealth Monroe. They have a Medical Detox Unit, a Residential Treatment program, a program for Substance Using Pregnant Persons (SUPP) as well as an After Care and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). The dedicated teams work 24/7/365 to make sure that those struggling with addiction recovery in our area have a place to go for help. I am pleased to work at EvergreenHealth, which continues to support patients in recovery. I have spoken with several EvergreenHealth employees in Monroe and Kirkland, and this resource is so important for their friends and family in recovery.
Monday, September 23, 2024
Homelessness and Panhandling in Redmond
"Not all people who are panhandling are homeless. And not all people who are experiencing homelessness ask for money. Learn what the City is doing to address the issue, and how you can be a part of the solution." redmond.gov
Feel free to call Tisza at 425-802-2523 if you have any questions about the panhandling or homeless individuals you think need help. Tisza's email is trutherford@redmond.gov. She's a tremendous asset for our city and very kind!
Posted by Yoder
9/23/2024
Sunday, September 22, 2024
UPDATED: Redmond Historical Society 25th Anniversary Celebration
John Oftebro, President of the Redmond Historical Society produced, directed, and emceed the Celebration.
 |
| Redmond Senior & Community Center |
Redmond Historical Society
25th Anniversary Celebration & Social
Redmond Senior & Community Center
8703 160th Ave NE, Redmond, WA 98052
Saturday, September 28th
Open house 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Program begins at 3:45
Enjoy sweet treats, entertainment, and an opportunity to see friends — old and new! This event is free and open to all.
Friday, September 20, 2024
Council Conversations, Q&A with Councilmembers
Meet with your City Councilmembers to share your thoughts and questions about Redmond, rain or shine.
Date and time
Monday, September 30 · 5 - 7pm PDT
Location
Downtown Park
16119 Redmond Way Redmond, WA 98052Walking with History: Elise Farrel-McWhirter
Breaking news! The folksy Redmond Mayor of 30-years Bill Brown is introduced and chats with the audience! He may be attending the Society's 25th Anniversary party at the Senior Center on Saturday, 28th 3-5:30. Have a beverage with him afterwards at a local tavern! haha!
Saturday Speaker Series Walking with History:
Elise Farrel-McWhirter (16:20 m)
"Born an heiress in the Age of Industry, Elise Farrel-McWhirter led the life of one of the most intriguing socialites in New England in the early 20th century. Follow the incredible life journey of a woman who was independent and bold before it was in vogue. Before the Women’s Suffrage Movement, before Women’s right to vote,
Elise Farrel-McWhirter lived a remarkable life on her own terms and traded the glamour of society for a small farming community in rural Washington—a community named Redmond that she chose to live in over all the other places she had traveled in North America, Asia, and Europe.
We can walk with history today, because she donated her beloved home upon her death that became Farrel- McWhirter Park. Learn about one of Redmond’s early leading ladies, who loved children, horses, nature, and left us all a legacy that helped foster Redmond’s modern-day Parks Department."
Speaker bio:
Ali Maynard is the Farm Program Coordinator at Farrel-McWhirter Park and has been employed with the City of Redmond since 2007.
Suzanne Greathouse Selected EvergreenHealth Commissioner
Suzanne Greathouse, a community professional who brings a vast amount of knowledge and experience, has been selected to fill the vacant Position #2 on EvergreenHealth's Board of Commissioners.
KIRKLAND, Wash. - The EvergreenHealth Board of Commissioners has selected Suzanne Greathouse to serve in Position #2, representing the Kenmore/Kirkland community and all residents of King County Public Hospital District #2. Greathouse was sworn into the position on Sept. 17 and will serve through Dec. 31, 2025.
Greathouse is a dedicated community professional who brings a vast amount of knowledge and experience to support EvergreenHealth's ongoing mission to advance the health of the community.
"We are excited to have Suzanne join the Board, and we look forward to her contributions in supporting the health and well-being of our community," said Board Chair Virgil Snyder. "Like every other commissioner, Suzanne is dedicated to ensuring our community has access to high-quality, safe, compassionate and cost-effective health care."
As the CEO and Co-Founder of REPSVR, a virtual reality skills training platform, Greathouse's diverse experience spans being a business owner, educator/trainer, executive, and consultant. Throughout her career, she has developed and led multicultural and virtual teams and managed complex business environments. She is an expert at applying industry best practices and emerging research to address specific challenges, fostering success, and enhancing performance, motivation, and job satisfaction.
Greathouse's career also includes nearly 20 years at AT&T, where she led efforts in various areas, including construction and engineering, research and development, emergency preparedness/disaster recovery, network security, network operations and IT product development and support. In 2017, after experiencing a family tragedy, Greathouse shifted her focus to serving the community. She has since held roles on the Kenmore City Council, the Northshore Fire District's Board of Commissioners, the City of Kenmore Planning Commission and the Northshore Senior Center Board of Directors.
Currently, Suzanne serves as a Northshore Utility District Commissioner and actively participates in various community organizations, including the Kenmore Heritage Society, Bothell/Kenmore Chamber of Commerce, Kenmore Business Alliance, and the EvergreenHealth Foundation. She is also the founder and president of the Alex Greathouse Foundation, which provides oral cancer support and funding for treatment, research, and other essential needs.
"I am thrilled at the opportunity to join the EvergreenHealth Board of Commissioners and look forward to working with fellow members on ensuring access to the hospital system's vital services in Kirkland, Kenmore and throughout the Eastside," said Greathouse.
Posted by Bob Yoder, 9/20/2024
Comments: 1) Public Notice for the interviews of the Commission nominees was poor. Navigation on their website to find this public meeting was close to impossible. Thus, my wife and I (and others) didn't attend. BY
2) Evergreen Board has the worst notice system out of any public board and they don't do well with publishing information. They don't even record their meetings and publish minutes a month after the meetings happen. Anonymous comment 9/21/2024
Monday, September 16, 2024
NBC Interviews Police Chief Lowe On First Responder Drones
"Redmond is one of the first in police departments in the U.S. to implement drones as first responders to get to the scene faster. But the drones pose privacy concerns." - NBC News’ David Noreiga has the latest on the tech transforming policing.
Posted by Yoder
9/16/2024
Saturday, September 14, 2024
UPDATED: Parks and Recreation Rewards Households With Fee Assistance
Have you heard about the Redmond Parks and Recreation Fee Assistance Program Application? Application forms are available at the Senior Center Customer Service desk.
Applicants who meet eligibility requirements can be awarded up to $1,000 per person, per year to help pay for day passes', monthly passes, punch passes, etc. So far, this program rewarded over $43,000 to ~ 345 recipients 2024.
Eligibility:
- Household income of $70,000 or less qualifies for a 50% reduction in activity fees.
- Household income of $47,000 or less qualifies for a 70% reduction in activity fees.
- Household income of $28,800 or less qualifies for a 90% reduction in activity fees.
Proof of Eligibility: Examples of accepted documents include, but not limited to: 1) Utility billing, 2) Social Security Benefits statement, 3) most recent tax return, 4) DSHS statement or award.
-- Posted by Yoder, 9/14/2024
Thursday, September 12, 2024
GreenRedmond Tree Planting Events , Two Locations
Below are planting event dates and site locations. Find a site map here Email: greenredmond@redmond.gov for the times. The event usually starts at 9 AM.
September 2024 |
October 2024 |
Posted by Yoder, 9/13/2024
Elise Farrel-McWhirter - Redmond Historical Society Speakers Series
Saturday Speaker Series Walking with History:
Elise Farrel-McWhirter
Saturday, September 14th at 10:30 AM
In the Old Redmond Schoolhouse at
16600 NE 80TH ST, Redmond, WA 98052
Born an heiress in the Age of Industry, Elise Farrel-McWhirter led the life of one of the most intriguing socialites in New England in the early 20th century. Follow the incredible life journey of a woman who was independent and bold before it was in vogue.
Before the Women’s Suffrage Movement, before Women’s right to vote,
Elise Farrel-McWhirter lived a remarkable life on her own terms and traded the glamour of society for a small farming community in rural Washington—a community named Redmond that she chose to live in over all the other places she had traveled in North America, Asia, and Europe.
We can walk with history today, because she donated her beloved home upon her death that became Farrel- McWhirter Park. Learn about one of Redmond’s early leading ladies, who loved children, horses, nature, and left us all a legacy that helped foster Redmond’s modern-day Parks Department.
Registration is not required. Please note this is an in-person program. A recording will be available following the event.
Posted by John Oftebro
President, Redmond Historical Society
9/12/2024
Monday, September 9, 2024
Disenfranchised Citizen Gripes About The Little Things
This is my edited Letter of gripes written to the Council Ombudsperson..jpg) |
| Council lining up to receive the Salary Commissioners I will report their salaries, stipends and benefits when they are available. |
I know you work hard and I hope the salary commission gives you what you're due, including the stipends and benefit improvements you and HR are giving yourselves.
The city is wealthy from construction income yet you are nickel and diming us with fees: Utility fees, Park fees, Recreation fees, Senior & Community Center fees. Are fees at Perrigo, Meadows, Hartman courts next? Fees are so many and scattered all over the Community/Senior Center that I can't sum them up.
Your action of charging residents and commercial a $15 fee on automatic utility payment looks ridiculous considering our city wealth. After 40 minutes of trouble shooting with utility staff I learned "a Director" acted too soon and now the fee must be reversed "until Council makes a decision on what to do." Should COO Files get involved?
I didn't appreciate CM Stuart calling me out in public after the Hearing on Initiative 2117. Amongst your new procedural rules that limit public participation, you should look at yourselves. Vice President Jessika Foresythe gave a good report on the specifics of the Climate Commitment Act as it relates to city monies.
Finally, Council President Vanessa Kritzer's participation during King County Councilmember Perry's "Town Hall" was excessive, shortening Ms. Perry's Q&A significantly. Other's felt so too. She IS a good speaker and does a lot of it. Perry's Community Engagement manager (and city councilmember) Osman Salahuddin generated a good turnout with great speakers.
Thank you for your interest and representation.
Sincerely,
Opinion Bob Yoder, 9/9/2024
Redmond resident
Saturday, September 7, 2024
Organized Crime Group Targeting Asian Community
CONTACT
Jill Green, Redmond Police Department Public Information Officer
jgreen@redmond.gov
425-556-2627
Police Warn Public about Organized Crime Group Targeting Asian Community
REDMOND, WA - The Redmond Police Department is asking community members to stay vigilant following a string of robberies in Redmond and nearby cities. The suspects are believed to be part of a Romanian organized crime group targeting elderly members of the East Indian community.
Suspects in these crimes, typically driving SUV rental vehicles, approach victims who are walking on sidewalks or in parking lots. Usually, a male driver and one or more female passengers contact victims by asking for directions or offering to trade jewelry. While engaging the victims in conversation, the suspects attempt to place costume jewelry on the victim and either swap it out for authentic jewelry or take it by force.
Five recent cases have involved female suspects wearing long dresses who use distraction techniques to steal valuable jewelry. Fortunately, the victims have not sustained serious injuries.
“These are not Hate crimes, but rather crimes of opportunity where the thieves travel around affluent neighborhoods and search for potentially vulnerable victims,” said Chief Darrell Lowe. “We encourage community members to be aware of their surroundings when walking alone outside and avoid wearing valuables.”
Redmond police ask everyone to use caution when approached by strangers in vehicles and not accept gifts from them. It is safest to travel in groups, especially when walking. If possible, leave jewelry and valuables locked in a safe when walking alone.
Anyone approached by strangers offering to trade or sell jewelry should contact law enforcement. For crimes within the City of Redmond, please call the Redmond Police Department at 425-556-2500.
Friday, September 6, 2024
Opinion: Redmond's King County's Homeless Project Is Failing
 |
| "Haven Heights" homeless building lobby Credit Bob Yoder |
Bob Yoder's Testimony to City Council and Mayor Birney, City Hall, September 3, 2004:
"Council and Mayor Birney, the success of the Silver Cloud Homeless project in Overlake is a litmus test for the future downtown Plymouth Housing project. Though with good intentions, it's failing miserably I've visited the facility twice.
- The Silver Cloud hotel was purchased two years ago by King County for ~$28 million for their "Health Through Housing" (HTH) homeless program and so far only 10 homeless reside there. The operator says 15 total homeless will be housed there no sooner than October.
- The facility is defined as "emergency housing" until all 100 studios are phased in for completion sometime in 2027, 28, or who knows. The incompetent KCRHA County homeless agency that triages the homeless for Coordinated Entry blames the supply-chain, permitting and scarcity of contractors on their extreme delay. There was no evidence of construction.
- Mayor Birney and other electeds on the KCRHA Governance Board are given new authority to manage and expedite the coordinated Entry process. Transparency should improve, as well. I asked Mayor Birney to please act expeditiously to fill "Haven Height's" with permanent supported housing as it was intended.
- When I dropped in last Tuesday three staff were idling in the lobby and we had a good chat. They have college degrees (business, computers.) and said they were case managers, too. Nice people but with not much to do. Staff said each resident has a phone. There's no curfew but if they're out more than three days they must call in. Right now there at 8 staff managing their 10 homeless residents. King County taxpayers are paying 14 cents/$1000 to support operations.
- Orca cards are issued. A van takes them shopping. So far Trader Joes and the Dollar Store are popular.
- The operator's Safety & Security Plan, Community Relations Plan, and Code of Conduct wasn't available. The building located behind Goodwill and is named "Haven Heights." The six story building is fenced looks formidable but it's plush inside. 16725-152 Avenue NE"
-- Bob Yoder's testimony to Council and Mayor during Items From The Audience, 9/3/2024
Thursday, September 5, 2024
UPDATED 10/1/24 City denies Redmond Pot Shop's Request To Install Bollards A Month befor...
KOMO NEWS, 9/5/2024
The owner lined the perimeter of his store with heavy 6-foot cement blocks firmly bolted ~ 2 inches from the sidewalk and utility box cover. Electric bikes and pedestrians are safely walking and running on the sidewalks. The city didn't pay for these safety enhancements. It's not know if they will amend their code.
UPDATED 10/1/24 Surveillance video shows suspects smash stolen KIA into Redmond pot shop
Update: The owner lined the perimeter of his store with heavy 6-foot cement blocks firmly bolted ~ 4 inches from the sidewalk and utility box cover. Electric bikes and pedestrians are safely walking and running on the sidewalks while protecting the business. The city didn't pay for these safety/property protection enhancements. It's not known if they will amend their code. - Bob Yoder, 10/1/24
About 8 suspects were involved. If you have any information about them please notify Jill Green, Redmond Police Public Information Officer: 425-556-2627.
9/5/2024
Sunday, September 1, 2024
Updated 9/2: Kiwanis Club Trail Clean-Up
(l-r) Bob Yoder (walk-on,) Pat Vache' (Founder,) Sue Stuart (Secretary) Dave Juarez (Lead / Organizer)
I think, twice a year the Kiwanis Club does a "trail clean-up." (They have a great tool that allows you to pick up trash without having to bend over and get your hands dirty.) We cleared out several "camps" including a tossed grocery cart.
Residents are always invited to participate in Kiwanis events even if you're not a member. For me, this event was really fun, great exercise and a good way to meet some members. Bear Creek is one of my favorite places in Redmond. It was a joy to make it better.
Flash: Sign up for their September 28 Mariner fundraiser HERE, at their website. Great seat locations and for a good cause! $27 of each ticket purchased will be donated to Kiwanis feeding programs!
- Posted by Yoder
updated: 9/2/2024
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
Updated: Together Center Extravaganza
CONNECTIONS will be tabling at this event.
If you wish to see the Together Center in action and learn from our incredible onsite provider partners and resources and services available at Together Center, please join us on Saturday, September 21 from 10am-1pm for our Community Resource Extravaganza featuring over 20 nonprofit partners, free food, live music, a petting zoo, art making, and raffle prizes. We hope to see you!
-- Kim Sarneki, Together Center CEO
Monday, August 19, 2024
EvergreenHealth - An Update
EvergreenHealth - King County Public Hospital District No.2
Our Community-Owned Hospital
 |
| This "Silver Tower" and a 2nd Emergency Department were funded by district taxpayers of Redmond, Sammamish, Kirkland, Woodinville, Bothell, Mill Creek, Kenmore, Shoreline, Duval, Carnation, and Snohomish County. |
EvergreenHealth serves our community well! They were the Nation's "first responders" during the pandemic onslaught and are deserving of every award earned. Recently, they were awarded "Top 50 Best Hospitals' in America."
Some good news ... EvergreenHealth appears in the planning and budgeting stages of hiring psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and advanced social workers for mental health treatment and therapy in their Emergency Departments and Urgent Care Centers. Time and community support will tell.
WEBSITE - "About Us"
Mission, Vision, Values
The Monitor newsletter
EvergreenHealth Public Community Hospital - Kirkland
###
Below is a library of posts, several outdated:
Evergreen's seven Hospital Commissioners listen to their constituents and make decisions on Levy and Bond measures. They take comments from the public and community during: Business meetings, 3rd Tuesday, 6:30 pm, "Surgery & Physicians Pavilion," Tan Room 250 and during some Educational sessions, 1st Friday of the month, 7:00 am Tan Room 250. Agendas & Minutes. 425-899-1000
by Bob Yoder, Updated 4/26/2024
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)