UPDATED OPINION: Redmond Chamber President announces desire to consolidate services, possible closure anticipated

Chamber President Tom Martin

UPDATED OPINION:  Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce President Tom Martin announces desire to consolidate services with Redmond's Economic Development Partnership (REDA) and Realize Redmond.  

Possible closure, as we know it, is anticipated. 

Updated, 9/10:  Chamber President Tom Martin, Evergreen Hospital executive, summarized the Chamber's situation during an October 30, City Council "study session": 

"Membership declined to 350** from 520-530 about four years ago; so one of our presenting problems is declining membership. The decline is both the function of the economic times and function of the relevance of the chamber...the mission we historically have had.

The question we continue to ask ourselves is how do we retain and create relevance for our membership? [August Kempf, Evergreen Public Hospital Commissioner, is the Membership Chair]. Our mission is around vitality for the business of the City of Redmond and focused on: 1) advocacy at the city, county, and state level and 2) creation of networking events.

Last January we sat down to talk to John [mayor] about how to coordinate fundraising activities [and participate with "Redmond Economic Development Association" (REDA) and "Realize Redmond" in a common vision.]  With a bit of stress from our Executive Director vacancy and declining membership and the request to hold off on fundraising... we look for consolidation and coordinating fundraising activities. We support the common vision.

Martin cited a local model similar to the Redmond study IE.  Everett-South Snohomish Chamber and Snohomish County Economic Development Alliance merged into one economic development alliance.

Bill Biggs, Chair of REDA (affiliated with Group Health) said at the August 30 meeting, "we may look at structuring ourselves differently on the basis of the study...because people who invest expect to see no waste and enhanced alignment."

Incumbent Councilmember David Carson said, "250 chambers have..closed their doors in the last three years."  In response to a question from Carson, Biggs said REDA and the Chamber "may not need two executives to drive forward." 

Mayor Marchione expects completion of the consultant study in two weeks and urges an October 30 deadline for action.  Councilmember Pat Vache', a Trustee of the Chamber and Director of REDA concluded, "the community" is the driving force to consolidate.   Formal announcement of the Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce possible closure (as we know it) is anticipated by the end of this year.

**Tom Martin informed me today (9/14) Chamber membership is 450 not 350. Mr. Martin quoted 350 members in his August 30 Council presentation.


Opinion By Bob Yoder
Source:  Video - Redmond City Council Study Session, 9/30/11

August Kempf is running un-opposed in November for County Public (Evergreen) Hospital District #2.  Board of Commissioners, Position No. 3.  auggie@kempfco.com

OPINION: Realize Redmond, REDA and the Chamber are reshuffling into a winning hand.



The humble beginnings (and end?) of the Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce

UPDATED OPINION:  "One Redmond Partnership".  "Community of Excellence".  "Redmond Economic Development Association (REDA)."  "The Chamber."  "Redmond Foundation."  "Realize Redmond."  "Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC)."

What does all this mean?  To simplify, let's just call the jargon "cards in the deck." and name the game, "One Redmond" - our economic development partnership.

The game started in March of 2010 when council funded $200,000 to create a public-private "economic development partnership" to attract and sustain business. An additional $50,000 was funded to start Realize Redmond - a nonprofit designed to build private support for community projects -- to enhance and define our culture, build community, revitalize our businesses, and promote tourism.  This community ("of excellence") includes in the mix: our schools (Dr. Kimball) and health & wellness organizations.

In the beginning REDA, the Chamber, Realize Redmond (RR) and the City weren't coordinated and playing "out of  the same deck" during fundraising.  This confused the donors, sponsors and community.  So, the mayor hired a consultant ($40,000) to seek alignment and coordination of these organizations.  According to Marchione, the study will be done in two weeks.  Re-alignments could be announced at that time.  It's possible the Chambers will close their doors, eventually.

If you saw the August 30 Redmond city council meeting, you'd have heard presentations from Bill Biggs of Group Heath,  Tom Martin of Evergreen, and Dan Angellar of the Marriot-Redmond.  They are "One Redmond Partnership"  leaders of REDA, Chambers, and RR, respectively.  The Mayor ran the meeting while council looked on. 

Bill Biggs, Chair of REDA led the discussion saying, "This is going to take an interdependent effort to get it done."  He said "we need to enhance our alignment, reduce waste, be a lean organization, with a cost effective overhead structure".   He spoke of  Redmond Chamber's role in keeping Redmond businesses vital and to be able to retain themselves and the RR value of community.  Biggs summarized the consultant's work saying 60 people were interviewed, not counting the Boards of REDA, Chamber, and RR.  "It created an awareness to a broad group of people."  Biggs stated:

"Historically, the way we have been organized is probably not what we will be, eventually.  We may or may not be the kind of independent Chamber or the kind of independent RR....we may look at structuring ourselves differently on the basis of the study...because people who invest expect to see no waste and enhanced alignment"

Tom Martin, President of the Redmond Chamber made an unexpected "fold em" announcement, as follows:  Read More >>

Our changing Climate: Resources for students, By Seth Preston

Our changing Climate: Resources for students
By Seth Preston, Communications Manager, Air Quality Program
from the EPA website;   A Student's Guide to Global Climate Change

Depending on where you live, the K-12 school year either is under way or preparing to start. So it makes sense to offer some kid-friendly climate change resources.

First, check out Ecology’s climate resource web page for students and teachers. (Redmond High School's "Cool Schools" is here!)

Read the entire article >>

LWSD Superintendent Kimball projects an increase in portables

Sup. Chip Kimball

Lake Washington School District Superintendent Chip Kimball comfortably projects less than a 10% increase in district portables by 2014.

During Redmond city council's August 30 "study session" on school impact fees, Councilmember John Stilin asked about portables and how they add value to the community. (Stilin volunteers at Rockwell and has three kids through the district). He quoted, "7% of district students are in portables this year" with further increases over time.

Superintendent Kimball stepped in to respond. He described the challenge of managing fluctuations in populations over time with balancing the high overhead costs of building new schools. "It's a tricky balance", said Kimball. To give perspective to the challenge Kimball cited two examples:

1. The district currently has 3,000,000 square feet of school space. Increasing the square footage of space (with portables) by 10%, is the equivalent of building two high schools.

2. All-day kindergarten in every school is desired. If the district built one Kindergarten classroom in every school this would be the equivalent of building two elementary schools - "a 50 million dollar problem." (He noted, the State doesn't fund all-day kindergarten care.)

Stilin cited the dramatic growth in Rockwell Elementary (from 200 to 656 students). Kimball mentioned Redmond Ridge's Rosa Parks Elementary as another example of skewed growth. Despite this growth, "over the past four years portable count in the entire district was reduced by over 100," said Kimball.

Lake Washington School District Superintendent Chip Kimball comfortably projects less than a 10% increase in portables by 2014.  

Stilin had concerns that rising birth rates from rising employment in Redmond "could throw off the counts." Sup. Kimball responded, birth rates are only one of many factors in planning building space. New developments and attrition are considerations. Juanita counts are decreasing; Redmond Ridge is up. "We don't rely exclusively on birth rates." Kimball went onto say:

"It's interesting, every time we have this conversation people will call into question the methodology we use because of their experience; they walk into a room like Rockwell and say, 'my-gosh, this place is crowded, are these people idiots?' That's what we get.

The district has 25,000 students and we're usually within 100 kids of our projection, based on historical data. We have a good methodology that's pretty accurate, given the degree of error."

Reported By Bob Yoder

School impact fee rates, LWSD portable projections and "One Redmond" economic development were on the table at this August 30 meeting. I'll try to get to all of them.  9/4

Jeni Craswell of Realize Redmond to share her vision of Redmond's future at historical society meeting

"Old Town Court" (click the red area!) is planned for Redmond's proposed Downtown Park (courtesy of RHS)

A new non-proft, Realize Redmond, has some impressive plans to raise private funds for public projects, especially the proposed downtown park. Whats more, both it and the city have taken Redmond's heritage to heart-the city's park designs include an "Old Town Court" as one idea for the city. You can read more in our Newsletter.

Please join us as we welcome Jeni Craswell, the Executive Director of Realize Redmond, on Saturday, September 10, 2011, from 10:30 to Noon, in the auditorium of the Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Center located at 16600 NE 80th St., as she shares her vision of Redmond's future.

Miguel Llanos

Education Hill neighbor

Editor, Redmond Historical Society (RHS)

September, 2011 RHS Newsletter

Garfield walks off the field vs. LW Kangs. Juanita Rebels crush Redmond

[This is a pretty boring video, but since the event is so outrageous, here ya go.] 

While attending the high school football game at Lake Washington High School versus Garfield High on 9/2/11, we witnessed an event that none of us had ever seen before in our lives.

With 10:17 to go in the 3rd quarter, a routine dive play by Garfield resulted in a fumble with Lake Washington recovering. Garfield called a time out and pulled all their players off the field. From that point on they refused to take the field. Lake Wash. players and referees waited on the field while delay of game penalties continued to mount. Garfield's players simply stood in a long line on their sideline in protest [with locked arms]. One of Garfield's coaches walked across the field speaking forcefully to one of the referees and then walked off the field or was ejected. After about 20+ minutes, the Garfield team [forfeited and] left the field. This video captures the scene.

  -- KING TV, 9/2

[edits by yoder]

### 

REDMOND MUSTANGS LOSE TO JUANITA REBELS IN OPENING GAME, 48 -16

KIRO GAME-OF-THE-WEEK - video (upper left)

 

UPDATED: Rose Hill Middle School project application is recommended by hearing examiner with conditions

Rose Hill Middle School Site Plan - a stand of trees buffers the southern residential community



UPDATED OPINION:  The public is invited to comment on this project on October 4, 7:30 PM at Redmond City Hall.  There should be ample time for the public to comment - 10 minutes is provided.

The new Rose Hill Middle School and Stella Schola Choice School project application was recommended with conditions August 22nd by the Hearing Examiner.  The 143,000 sq. ft. school, with 90 new parking stalls, will be located on the same 23 acre parcel as the old Junior High.  Estimated construction cost is $49,158,000. The new school is slated for construction in 2012 while the Junior High is in session.   Address:  13505 NE 75th Street, Redmond.

The project City Council Public Meeting  Notice of 9/10 is especially confusing.: http://www.redmond.gov/government/publichearingnotices.  This link doesn't explain in any way how the public process works and who decides who can speak against whom.  I've contacted the city Ombudsman and project planner, sfischer@redmond.gov for clarification and will update this page with their responses.

The record shows intense public participation.  For the most part, tree removal, a fuel pipeline, and parking incited the turnout.  Three neighborhood meetings were held between April 15 and May 19, 2011.  A total  of 40 residents turned out.  In addition, 56 comments were taken from 9 people during the application process prior to the public Hearing.

THE CONDITIONS:

TRAFFIC & PARKING: The new school will increase capacity from 654 students to 900 total students, including Stella and portables.  The project will generate 642 net new daily trips serviced by three driveways. An expanded parent pick-up/drop-off drive will reduce congestion. A separate bus lane with room for eleven buses will increase traffic efficiency.  Parking demand for the events (5-10/year) currently exceeds demand and will continue to do so, even with 60 additional off-street parking spaces and 42 new spaces along entree drives.  The project includes 50 student bike racks, most of them covered.

STREET LIGHTING:  Streetlights may be required to illuminate the property frontage. Contact:  Paul Cho, Transportation Operations (425) 556-2751 with questions.

TREES:   Nearly half the trees will be saved; the City of Redmond requires retaining a minimum of 35% significant trees.   228 significant, healthy trees will be removed, including 12 Landmark Trees (greater than 30 inches in diameter).  218 significant trees and six Landmarks will be saved.   A stand of trees and 12 inch snag used by foraging Pileated Woodpeckers will be retained along the southern site boundary.  A Tree Preservation Map is available for viewing at Redmond City Hall.

THE OLYMPIC PIPELINE:  A 400-mile long petroleum pipeline from Ferndale to Portland runs N-S on the eastern boundary along the PSE electric transmission easement.  Read More >>

Redmond Police to do extra enforcement around schools, start of the year

Jim Bove to speak Sept 2

"Reading, Writing, and Safe Driving!"

Redmond, WA – Redmond Police will be doing extra enforcement in and around school zones to make sure children and citizens get off to a safe start this academic year.  Officers will use speed trailers and enforce regulations pertaining to speed, crosswalks, and parking.

Additionally, with the beginning of the academic year, traffic safety cameras on NE 116th Street in front of Einstein Elementary School will be activated. 


Cameras in front of Einstein are live only when the yellow beacons are flashing, generally from:
8:35 a.m. to 8:55 a.m.
3:25 p.m. to 3:40 p.m. 
(Wednesday afternoon - 1:55 pm - 2:15 pm)

“Those traveling should always maintain safe driving habits, but especially in school zones where children may not be paying attention,” stated Traffic Lt. Nick Almquist.  “We will work with school crossing guards and school administrators to ensure they are prepared for the coming academic year.”
Other safety tips:

•  When posted, the speed limit is 20 miles per hour in school zones when children are present (Fine: minimum $189, depends on speed)
•  Stop when following a school bus and its red lights are flashing  (Fine: $394)
•  Stop for pedestrians in crosswalks and on sidewalks (Fine: $124)
•  Avoid using cell phones, IPods, and other activities that cause inattentive driving (Fine: $124)

Jim Bove
Redmond Police Department
Community Outreach Facilitator
(425) 556-2545
jbove@redmond.gov

Mr. Bove to speak at First Friday Chat, Sept. 2, 10AM, Senior Community Center.  Public is invited.

LW District students outperform ten largest state school districts in "improvement status" rating

Superintendent Kimball

“Our high schools continue to do very well compared to other schools across the state.  Science is a particular strength here, as it is in our junior highs and elementary schools.”
     -- Chip Kimball, LWSD Superintendent

Of the ten largest school districts in the state, Lake Washington is the only one that has not entered Average Yearly Progress (AYP) “improvement status.” 

Redmond, Wash. – With high average state test scores, Lake Washington School District (LWSD) met the standard for Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) in 51 of 57 areas under the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), according to information released by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. District students continue to score significantly above state averages on the state tests, the Measurements of Student Progress (MSP) and High School Proficiency Exams (HSPE) as well as the new End of Course exams for math in secondary schools.  Read More >>

LETTERS: Pro & Con Comments on Redlight Cameras

LETTER (Pro): I went from being a person against the red light cameras to being fully supportive of them. I was afraid I'd be rear ended several times as I slammed on brakes to avoid getting tickets (yes, I admit to cutting it close on occasion). But after attending the public meeting on the red light cameras, and seeing how people were speeding up and ENTERING the intersection after the light was red, well, I would give them a ticket too. Slowing down just a bit so that you can approach the light at a safe enough speed to avoid being rear ended and getting a ticket is easy. It's not too much to ask.

-- Comment By Anonymous1 on OPINION: "Redmond Initiative 1" moves closer ... on 8/30/11

LETTER (Con):  I think cameras are a great idea. We should have them everywhere, not just red lights. Like on the highway, so we can ticket all you slow drivers in the passing lanes. And in our houses (and bedrooms), so we can make sure there’s no wrongdoing going on there. Let’s not forget every church, synagogue and mosque. Can you imagine the juicy sedition we could uncover? Last, I’d like to put a webcam in almost every room at Redmond city hall, so we can see what really drives the behavior, decisions, and results that have so many of us puzzled. It seems we have the right and obligation to constantly monitor each other to ensure we protect society from our collective bad behavior. We’ll, count me all in. If you’re not doing anything wrong, you won’t object, right?

  --Comment By Anonymous2 on OPINION: "Redmond Initiative 1" moves closer... on 8/30/11

The Council Public Safety Committee meets monthly on the 4th Tuesday of the month (4 PM at City Hall).  Councilmembers David Carson (candidate for Nov. election), Hank Myers (uncontested candidate) and John Stilin are committee members.  The meetings are open to the public; the Redlight camera program and videos are often reviewed.  

The April - June public safety committee report on Redlight cameras is here.  Redmond Way/148th Ave NE intersection has the most citations/month.   B.Y.

UPDATED OPINION: "Redmond Initiative 1" moves closer to qualifying for February 7 ballot

UPDATE: 
9/21/2011 - NEWS FLASH:   THE MAYOR AND HIS CITY LAWYER, MR. HANEY, ANNOUNCE TODAY THAT THE 6000 PETITIONS ARE ILLEGAL ACCORDING TO STATE LAW AND WILL NOT BE DELIVERED TO THE COUNTY FOR FILING.  B.Y.  Eyman's Editorial  9/22 

Mayor Marchione and Councilmember Cole's OpEd in response to Eyman's Editoral., 9/22

Scott Harlan, Redmond activist

from the Desk of Scott Harlan, Redmond resident and activist... 

OPINION:  "My goal is to get a public vote on the redlight camera program so the citizens can say “yes” or “no”.  If they say “yes”, I am fine with that (although I would personally vote no.)

We are quickly approaching the end of the redlight signature signature gathering phase of this campaign.  With a little bit more work, we are well on our way to qualify for the ballot (which will be on February 7th). 

Campaign Update:  There has been a little confusion about the [red light signature gathering campaign,] so let me clear that up.   The signature gathering phase of an initiative lasts a full six months.  For gathering signatures, that final date is roughly September 20th.  Once the signatures are gathered, they are turned in to the county for verification.  After the city council acts, the measure would then go on the ballot for the next election per certain regulatory time-frames. 

For Redmond Initiative #1, that means that the measure goes on the February ballot.  Making the November ballot in time would have required a miracle given the size of Redmond. [ ] The county just requires too much lead time to make a November ballot.  When we are on the February ballot, that will be success." 

The following Redlight Signature Gathering Event is scheduled for September 10th:

Redlight Signature Gathering Event:

When:  Saturday, September 10th

 from 9:30am to 3:30pm 

(2-3 hour shifts are just fine and appreciated)

Where:  Meet at the Together Center board room

 (16225 NE 87th, Redmond, WA  98052)

Opinion By Scott Harlan

"Public-Private Partnerships" are Popular in Redmond



"Economy Fence Center" in partnership with City of Redmond Development? 

Public-Private partnerships are a popular method of funding these days in the city.  In this case, "Economy Fencing Center" appears to be partnering with the City to build this stormwater wetland pond  (ha! ha!)  Looks like the city is pretty proud of their fencing partner! 

This new stormwater treatment facility is located on the corner of 111th Street NE and 172nd Ave NE.  It treats stormwater from the roads and new Emerald Heights project that's planned to go in soon.  Horse-back riders frequently travel on the gravel trail along the PSE Power Line.  Oh, is that why the white vinyl fencing was installed - to give the feel of equestrian farm land?   

Seriously, a few of the partnerships the City has with private organizations are: 

• The Saturday Market -- $5,000 funding by the city per year, R-Trip, Evergeen Hospital ($1,000)
• **Realize Redmond -- $50,000 (one time seed $), consultants
• Redmond Economic Development Association -- $200,000 (one time seed $), consultants
• Lodging Tax Advisory Committee to promote tourism - $377,000 tax revenues in 2010.
• Bullseye Creative -- content and branding for city website and economic partners
• R-Trip
• Anderson Park Shelter - Rotary Club of  Redmond donated labor and money.
• Redmond Historical Society - fund staff, in-kind meeting space at ORS Community Center
• Derby Days
• Redmond Pool managed by Wave Aquatics
• Green-Redmond - administered by Cascade ConservancyRedmond
• Parks & Planning - Berger Consutlants - conceptual planning/administration for parks projects.
• "Red Light Safety Camera Program" - American Traffic Solutions

Okay, it's a weekend and I'm all fenced in.  This story will be updated early next week, so come back!  Please comment below if you can help me fill in the blanks. 

** Realize Redmond promotes the Downtown Park fundraising effort.  Sept. 10 presentation at Red. Hist. Soc. Meeting 10:30 - Noon, Old Redmond School House

Opinion by Bob Yoder

i-Phone photo by Yoder

WSDOT restripes exit lane to Redmond Way to unclog gridlock

The restriping work will be done within the next several weeks, 8/25

from the desk of Jamie Holter, WSDOT Communications

WSDOT restripes exit lane to Redmond Way

We get email from eastside drivers who tell us they love the new lanes on SR 520 between West Lake Sammamish Parkway and SR 202. The lanes have been open since December 2010. The lanes save time and make for a better commute.

 Usually, in the same breath, they tell us how much they dislike the single lane exit to SR 202 / Redmond Way. The idea was to limit cars crisscrossing as they headed toward the exit. The weaving leads to collisions. Redmond drivers still don’t like it.

We have been working with the city of Redmond for several months now to unclog that gridlock at the end of the ramp to Redmond Way. While there is no perfect solution, we have agreed to restripe the exit lane to Redmond Way and give drivers two lanes instead of one. It’s a start.

We expect to do the work in the next several weeks.  Thank you to the drivers who have written into us with their traffic-busting solutions in the last several months.  

Jamie Holter

WSDOT Communications I

206.440.4698 (W)   206.719.7535 (cell)

LETTER: Commercial development in our neighborhoods? Enough is Enough.

LETTER:  "The Planning commission writes, "We certainly understand the need to keep residential development and rendering plants separate, but do not see the immediate incompatibility of a corner coffee shop, produce store or bakery with the needs of residents who might walk to such an establishment." This kind of "planning" seems very out of touch with reality. The reality is that development in each zone is largely complete. We already have plenty of coffee shops, produce stores, and bakery shops in Redmond. We folks moved out to the suburbs (Redmond) and fell into the State Growth Management Act (1990). A tension was established that pits constant development with a desire for open space, and quality of life. Enough is enough. Let us live in peace, without commercial development in our neighborhoods."

By Richard Morris

Education Hill

This opinion is an excerpted, signed comment written under the post about 'Two planning commissioners Minority report on micro-level neighborhood commercial.'   Your Letters and Opinions are welcome.  Please send them by comment or to my email.   Include your name if you are comfortable doing so.  B.Y.

Planning Commissioner Tom Flynn co-authors Minority Report to council urging "micro-level" neighborhood commercial

Six Neighborhood Commercial zones have been approved  for large

 grocery store-type developments, like "PCC" at Avondale &amp

 116th Ave and "Bridle Trails" at 132nd Ave. NE and Old Redmond Road.

One development is allowed per zone.  CLICK 2X TO ENLARGE

"We certainly understand the need to keep residential development and rendering plans separate, but do not see the immediate incompatibility of a corner coffee shop, produce store or bakery with the needs of residents who might walk to such an establishment."

-- Redmond Planning commissioners Phil Miller and Tom Flynn's Minority Report to City Council on "Neighborhood Commercial," as follows: 

"We need to remind ourselves that one of the principal justifications we have been given for the establishment of the Neighborhood Commercial (NC) classification is to improve “walkability” in our neighborhoods. [  ] We have not seen to our satisfaction that forcing neighborhood residents to walk an extra ½ mile accomplishes anything but encourage the use of automobiles for even very short trips. ½ mile excludes a large number of people in Redmond from convenient commercial. [  ] It isn’t the intent to force car trips downtown, but this certainly is the effect.  Read More >>

Redmond High PTSA Weekly features: Sports, Nature, and TEDx events

CROSS COUNTRY TEAM BENEFIT RACE. Come out and help our cross country team by joining a 5K race at Hartman Park on Saturday, August 27 at 10:00am. The race is open to all community members encourages runners of all ages and skill levels. A donation of $15 is appreciated with 100% of the proceeds going to the Redmond High School Cross Country Team. Register at the RHS Cross Country Boosters Club web site.

MUSTANG OPEN TO BENEFIT RHS ATHLETICS. The fifth annual Mustang Open, which includes a golf tournament, dinner & auction to raise funds for RHS athletics, will be held at Bear Creek Country Club Monday, September 12 at noon. For more information or to register, contact Katy Bies.

BOYS' AND GIRLS' LACROSSE. Want to play lacrosse? Teams are forming now! Registration begins online in the fall. The season begins in March and continues through May. For more information visit Redmond Lacrosse.

HELP RESTORE FARREL-MCWHIRTER PARK. Join Green Redmond at Farrel-McWhirter Park on August 27 from 9:00-Noon for a work party to help remove invasive plants from the park. No experience is necessary, and Green Redmond will have all the gloves, tools, and other materials for you, as well as water and snacks. Please remember to bring your own water bottle to re-fill, and/or a mug for coffee. Wear sturdy shoes and consider long pants and long sleeves for working in the blackberry. All ages are welcome, although all volunteers under 18 must either be accompanied by an adult or bring a signed waiver. Please register if you wish to participate.

TEDx REDMOND 2011. Join Redmond teens at TEDx Redmond on September 10 at the Microsoft Conference Center at 16070 NE 36th Way. The conference will be open to those 18 years and younger, and has been organized by Redmond teens, including several RHS students!

Source:  Redmond Mustang Weekly

Carson and Stewart vie for Redmond Council Seat #7: The Facts. The Issues.

REDMOND CITY COUNCIL SEAT 7 (Carson vs. Stewart)

READ MORE...the issues, ratings, campaign contributions, websites>>  

Redmond's Ben Wobker - owner of Lake Washington Physical Therapy - "Gives Back" to Eastside community

Ben Wobker and Mandie video-tape client running on the treadmill   during "gait analysis"  Ben and Mandie evaluate and video client walking Ben Wobker, P.T., community leader and owner of Lake Washington Physical Therapy, performed a free "gait analysis" for 30 Eastside residents on Saturday morning.  The event was advertised on the clinic's facebook page and word of mouth. UPDATED:  If you've been to any Redmond High School basketball, football, or cross-country sporting events you've probably heard of Ben Wobker.  Ben, the son of  Horace Mann teacher David Wobker, graduated from RHS with seven letters in Football, Cross-country and Leadership honors.   Ben is an award-winning* physical therapist and runs a successful eastside therapy business.  To me, three words describe him best: Ben Gives Back...to his community!   Ben analyzes gait with client and makes recommendations Every year Ben councils Coach Villineuve's highly ranked Cross Country teams with free "gait analysis" and discounts on shoes. Once the co-owner of Redmond Physical Therapy, he offered free fittings and discounts on knee and ankle braces for Mustang teams. You'll also see Ben at high school career fairs and mentoring students in his clinic. But, Ben's food drive efforts with HopeLink may be his biggest community contribution. Two years ago, Ben started "March Can Madness" -- a competition between Redmond businesses -- to collect the most food from their customers for HopeLink. To this day, Ben still waives the $30 fee for missed appointments with a food donation!  Next year, Lake Washington Physical Therapy will sponsor HopeLink's "Turkey Trot" fundraiser.   After eight years service as co-owner at Redmond Physical Therapy, Ben decided to expand his brand to Kirkland. Last month he celebrated his first year as owner of Lake Washington Physical Therapy.  Already he plans to hire a 4th therapist! Mandie Majerus, PT worked with Ben for years in Redmond. Both graduated from University of Montana. (Mandie's entering the Iron man in Canada; she worked as a therapist in Antarctica for a year!)  Some trivia:  In Washington, many insurance companies don't require a physician referral to see a physical therapist.     Brooks, Mizuno, Asics track shoes fill the display windows. Ben contracted "Everyday Athlete" to sell the shoes. "Even though Kirkland's downtown vacancy was 22% last year we still had to meet "non-medical retail" zoning requirements," said Ben.  *Ben Wobker was voted "2010 Best Physical Therapist" by the readers of Eastside's "425 Magazine". Ben's Bio,  Address:  209 Kirkland Ave., adjacent the Heathman Hotel. 425-629-3502.  Directions. Opinion and Report By Bob Yoder Photos By Yoder

Principal Thomas gives tour of novel, new Lake Washington High School: Video

Christina Thomas, Principal of the new Lake Washington High School gives a video tour of her school and explains the four "community learning Houses". Click on the books to meet Christina and start the short  tour!

According to a student tour guide, this year, Northstar will be housed in the new high school, prior to the 9th grade re-configuration in 2012. Also, students will be without lockers.   Thomas said 65 netbooks are provided for each house, in addition to the computers from the old school.  Honors students and disabled will be in-House. AP students and electives outside-House.

###

July, 16 2010 McGranahan architiect's report: 

The new Lake Washington High School is a 214,000 sf facility being constructed on the existing campus with the current school in operation during construction. A primary goal of the project is to capitalize on the qualities and benefits of Smaller Learning Communities within the larger school setting. The new school will support four Learning Communities in “houses” of 300-350 students. Still, the design recognizes the composite community that is Lake Washington High School by honoring the history of the school and those who have enlivened the site before.

Identifiable groupings of classrooms, labs & studios, each linked to a central shared instructional area, foster closer connections between teachers and >>

Lake Washington School District ACT Scores increase in all categories.

Lake Washington School District ACT Scores Increase in all Categories.  More district students meet college readiness benchmarks than state, national averages

Redmond, Wash. – While state mean scores for college-bound students fell slightly in all categories this year, Lake Washington School District (LWSD) students scored higher in all four of the ACT tests (English, Mathematics, Reading and Science) and improved their average composite score. In addition, Lake Washington students continue to show significantly greater college readiness than state averages and more than twice the national average for meeting all four benchmark scores.  Read More >>

Overlake to open primary care and urgent care clinics in Redmond

Rendering of Overlake Urgent Care Clinic/Redmond

10-exam rooms with full-service imaging

Overlake Expands its Physician and Clinic Network in Redmond and Kirkland

Bellevue, Wash. – Overlake Hospital Medical Center continues to grow its network of primary care medical clinics on the Eastside with three new clinics in Kirkland and Redmond opening in the next six months.

Overlake will open a primary care clinic in Redmond Town Center, at 7525 166th Ave NE, and an urgent care clinic in Redmond’s Creekside Crossing development near SR 520, at 17209 Redmond Way. The Redmond primary care clinic is scheduled to open in January 2012 and the urgent care clinic is scheduled to open December 2011.

Patient care services at the two primary care clinics will include same-day and walk-in appointments, comprehensive care for adults, immunizations, physical exams, acute care and chronic disease management. In addition, both primary care clinics will offer digital X-ray and an electronic medical record. The Redmond urgent care clinic will include 10 exam rooms and a full-service imaging center with digital X-ray, CT and ultrasound. 

"At Overlake, we're looking for ways to provide Eastside residents with better access to convenient cost-effective medical care,"  Read More >>

Ecology loosens vehicle emissions testing requirements

Ecology adopts changes to state’s vehicle emissions testing program

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology) has adopted a new updated motor vehicle emissions testing program rule. The changes take effect in July 2012.

The new rule includes changes required by the Legislature. All 2009 and newer model year vehicles will not require testing and additional businesses may be authorized to conduct tests. The rule also eliminates some testing that is becoming less relevant. 

New rule changes include:

• Eliminating the gas cap test and dynamometer testing.

• Using the same test standards for all 1995 model year and older gasoline vehicles.

• Exempting light-duty diesel vehicles from testing.

• Tightening the test standards for heavy-duty diesel vehicles.

This action fits exemption criteria in Gov. Chris Gregoire’s Nov. 17, 2010, executive order, which suspended non-critical rule work until the end of 2011. Approving the changes will allow small businesses to perform emission tests on vehicles.  King, Pierce, Snohomish, Clark, Spokane counties are affected.

You can find the new rule and supporting documents on Ecology’s Air Quality website. (http://www.ecy.wa.gov/laws-rules/activity/wac173422A.html   Read More >>

7% net job loss in 2010 won't affect Redmond housing targets.

Housing targets unchanged

by 2010  job losses

UPDATED:  Last night, city council reviewed the 2010 employment estimates for Redmond.   Total employment was down 15.2% from  90,704 ('09) to 76,876 in 2010.  Actual employment loss was approximately  7% or 6,000.  The 7,746 jobs (8.25%) lost when Microsoft relocated employees from Redmond to Issaquah and Bellevue in 2009-2010 are not counted.  

As a result, Council voted to lower their 2030 employment target from 126,600 to 119,000.  The source for employment estimates is Puget Sound Regional Council

Councilmember Pat Vache' got a "no" from staff when he asked if the job loss "will affect housing targets."   President Richard Cole had concerns of a housing imbalance, saying "Redmond has been picked on in the past" for being behind in housing goals.  Staff responded, a small imbalance could create an oversupply of housing in our favor.   

The percent reduction in jobs by sector, based on Redmond licensing data is, as follows: 

• Construction Resources,  - 25% 
• Finance, Insurance, and Real estate - 15%  
• Manufacturing,  -23% 
• Retail, --2%
• Services, -4%
• Wholesale, Trade, Transportation - 3%
• Government -4%   [*includes reduction of 19 contracted jobs (2%) paid by Microsoft, B.Y.]
• Education, -5%)

Redmond was ranked the highest for percent job loss 2009-2010, as compared to other cities.  To name a few:  Redmond, -15.25%, Sammamish - 9.59%, Sea Tac 6.80%, Woodinville, -4.75%, Seattle, -2.35%, Mercer Island, - 1.33%, Bellevue, -1.03%, Kirkland ++1.02%, Issaquah  ++5.59 

(Redmond's net job loss is 7% after Microsoft location corrections)

Reported by Bob Yoder

Source:  City document AM 11-166

* 2009 - 2010 city budget manual

Internet photo

Parks and Trails Commission vacancy hard to find on City Website - deadline approaching

Deliver your Parks & Trails

Commission application

 to City Hall

The City has one opening on the Parks and Trails Commission that must be filled by a resident living outside Redmond’s city limits with a Redmond address.  The Mayor reviews your application and makes the appointment.  The Council approves the appointee.  If you are interested it might be a good idea to contact the Mayor's office to talk to a commissioner.  An excellent contact is Sue Stewart.  She is a candidate for City Council and was Chair of Parks and Trails for 6 years.   

The commission may be looking for someone familiar with trails outside the city ie. horse, hiking, biking, running. The Parks and Trails Commission members advise and make recommendations to the Mayor and City Council concerning acquisition, development and improvements to all park facilities.    They also make recommendations and provide input on recreational programming. The Commission meets on the first Thursday evening of the month at City Hall. All board and commission members are volunteers.

Applicants must complete a community service application. The deadline for applications is 5pm on Friday, August 26.  If you're looking for additional information on the Commission to prepare for the interview visit the new city website:  http://www.redmond.gov/.

The  new city website is challenging to navigate.  If you have trouble, I recommend you write the Office of the Mayor and City Ombudsman at:  mayorcouncil@redmond.gov.  To research this story, I visited the website Search engine and the A-Z Directory. It didn't work, so I emailed the Office of the Mayor and Council for help.  They responded: 

"Bob, if you look at the top of the website and click on Residents, then click down to Volunteer Opportunities and then click to Boards and Commissions, you will see the notice for the opening on the Parks and Trails Commission"    --Talley Hudson, Office of the Mayor

"The press release [link to the job description] was a bit challenging to find, so I've copied it below for your to share with your friend"  

-- Hank Margeson, Ombudsman, City Councilmember

I stumbled on the application on a separate page.  It's unfortunate important commission openings are so hard to find and research.  Those "on the inside" appear to have the advantage.  I'm hoping a Council candidate will address some of these problems in their campaign.

Opinion By Bob Yoder   

Internet photo

"Grasscrete" road supports a fire truck, environmentally friendly, By John Reinke

 This is an environmentally friendly road that filters stormwater and recharges the groundwater / John Reinke

This is an example of "grasscrete," an alternative to a paved fire lane.   It's structurally sound to support the weight of a fire engine.  The City is trying to encourage alternatives to hard surface fire lanes.  If the site is flat, the Fire Department will allow use of this type of product, which is much more environmentally friendly."  

  --Cathy Beam, AICP, Principal Environmental Planner

I think this sidewalk was probably installed when the bridge was built that connected both sides of NE 90th Street, about 15 years ago - but I really don't know. It's just to the west of the big QFC, and just to the north of the Senior Center adjacent to a large rental property.

--John Reinke, Education Hill

LETTER: Regional Transit Task Force member acknowledges Councilmembers Hague and Lambert

LETTER:  As a member of the Regional Transit Task Force (RTTF) I want to acknowledge the leadership of King County Councilmembers Jane Hague and Kathy Lambert on the Congestion Reduction Charge (CRC). To paraphrase the Councilmembers, they didn’t change their mind, they changed the proposal, and they did so in a way that serves their constituents and all the citizens of King County extraordinarily well.

The changes are substantive.

• Accelerating the phase out of the free ride area and implementation of alternative service delivery models honor the recommendations of the Metro audit and RTTF, respectively.
• Complimentary bus tickets for individuals paying the CRC, paired with a ticket donation program, ensure that everyone who pays the CRC will see direct benefit and provides a path for increasing social equity.
• Factoring tolling into service allocation decisions directly addresses the RTTF emphasis on productivity and geographic value.

Each of the changes negotiated by Councilmembers Hague and Lambert move us toward a more vital and sustainable King County Metro - one that better serves the needs of citizens in their districts and throughout the county. In crafting a CRC that includes these provisions the Councilmembers are keeping both our county’s people and its economy moving.

  -Josh Kavanagh 

 Member, Regional Transit Task Force

King County formed the Regional Transit Task Force in March 2010 to consider a policy framework to guide service investments or—if necessary—contraction of the King County Metro Transit system.

Ban Cam Activist responds to Redmond Councilmember Cole's "dismissal of signature gathering efforts"

Activist Scott Harlan

LETTER:  Redmond's Ban Cam Activist Scott Harlan writes to "Voters Decide For Redmond", the following:

Council President Richard Cole said in yesterday's Redmond Reporter:   

"Council's [red light safety program] decision will be based on the infraction and collision data, not a few thousand signatures.

 “Our decision on whether we renew the contract or not will virtually have nothing to do with (Harlan's) signature gathering," said Cole, adding that council members would certainly take notice if Harlan brought in 25,000 signatures. "That would send a message," he said.

Mr. Cole’s dismissal of our effort as being only 1/5th of what it would take to get the council’s attention is a dismissal of the campaign’s volunteers and supporters and their incredible effort. It is a dismissal of at least 3,845 registered voters in Redmond that have, or will, take the time to sign the petition, put a stamp on an envelope, and send it in to us. Please reach out to Redmond Council council@redmond.gov  and let them know that it is their job to listen to the citizens of their city.

The initiative law was written such that 15% of the registered voters in a city can sign a petition to put a measure on the ballot (in the case of Redmond, that is 3,845). The drafters of that law wanted to create a very high hurdle for voter access to the ballot. We hope to hit that high hurdle.Mr. Cole is saying, “Thanks for your efforts, but a few thousand signatures is a drop in the bucket. Bring me five times that amount and then we’ll notice”. 4,000 to 5,000 votes is what it takes to elect a mayor or city council member in Redmond.  Read More >>

City celebrates $107,755 renovation of historic Anderson Park shelter - Rotary Club hosts event

from the desk of Pam Mauk, Executive Director, Together Center... 

Anderson Park shelter is located in Redmond's first park

Rotary Club of Redmond hosts Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to celebrate renovation of historic Anderson Park

Rotary Club of Redmond, a key partner in the renovation of a 1938 Anderson Park shelter, will host a ribbon cutting to celebrate the completion of the renovation on Thursday, August 25, at 1 pm. The newly-renovated park shelter is located in the north-east corner of Anderson Park in the heart of Redmond at 7802 168th Ave NE.

All are welcome to join the club for the ribbon cutting and cake. The gathering will last about a half hour.

The Anderson Park shelter is one of the city’s most popular shelters and is often reserved for family barbecues or birthday parties. The Rotary committee chose to participate in this project because of the historical significance it has in Redmond and the shelter acts as a gathering place for individuals in the community.  Read More >>

UPDATE 4: Eastside Community supports Mental Health & Wellness

People did not seek help for mental illness in 2010

A majority of Americans with mental disorders did not receive professional help in 2010, according to a major government study released today

Although about 20 percent of American adults (45.9 million) reported any mental illness in 2010, only 39.2 percent of that group said they got treatment, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration report shows.  Read More >>

By Janice Lloyd
Gannett
January 27, 2012

#####

A Winning Approach to Mental Health:  'Signs and Symptoms of Depression', Overlake's Eastside services and more...

It may be tempting to try to deal with depression, anxiety and similar disorders on your own, but mental health conditions can be just as debilitating as physical illnesses. No one should struggle through each day feeling hopeless and alone. Effective treatments are available from skilled, caring professionals here in your own community.   Read More >>

  --Healthy Outlook, Winter 2012

#####

HERO House, Newsletter, Winter 2011

"On November 3, over 225 attendees fill the Auditorium at the Lake Sammamish Four Square Church, helping HERO  House to raise more than $40,000 for our sponsors.  This year was the inauguration of the Abe Kriger Visionary Award, in recognition and honor of the Eastside's HERO House Founder, Abe Kriger.  The fundraiser was emceed by Dennis Bounds, co-anchor of King5News.  HERO House is located on the Bellevue-Redmond border and provides a safe, non-threatening haven to foster a sense of community support for those in East King County, living with the effects of serious mental illness." 

Contact: Erica Horn, 425-614-1282. 14230 NE 21st St. Bellevue, WA.  98007.  http://www.herohouse.org/.

#####

Chadd

What steps can parents take to promote a positive future for their ADHD children? Challenging behaviors today may well prove to be assets in adult life. Learn how to recognize and promote the positive strengths of your child.

Eastside CHADD is pleased to announce that we offer clock hours for school professionals who attend Eastside CHADD meetings. You will need to attend a minimum of two meetings to earn clock hours through my247ed.com. More details will be provided at the Tuesday's meetings.

Please invite your children's teachers, school nurses, counselors, and psychologists to our meetings and let them know that we offer clock hours at a very reasonable rate.
 
###



Issaquah Mental Health Court serves the entire Eastside

 WHAT IS A MENTAL HEALTH COURT?

The new Issaquah Mental Health Court opened in 2010.  Directions and details are here. 

SPECIAL THANKS TO:  Mike Rynas of NAMI-Eastside, Leadership Eastside, King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert, Redmond Council member Hank Margeson, and the many other individuals and organizations who helped make this human service available on the Eastside. 

King County Mental Health Court website.

EVERGREEN PUBLIC HOSPITAL sponsors community mental health care services by hosting Mental Health and ADHD Forums every 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7 PM.  Contact: Laurene Burton at lburtnon@evergreehealthcare.org  for details.

For information please call the NAMI Eastside at 425 885 6264 or email info@nami-eastside.org

NAMI-Eastside office is located at "The Together Center,"  Redmond, WA.