Monday, May 21, 2012

Running With Dogs on the Power Line Trail

Richard holding Sadie (2008)
Republished in memory of Richard's dog, Sadie -- 

For the past year or so, I have been running daily with two Australian Shepherds. I have been taking care of my daugther's dog, Scooby, while she is living in the U.K. It is a learning experience for me to watch these herding dogs in action, trying their best to round up squirrels and rabbits that happen to cross our path. These are hard working dogs and love to punch a time clock. Typically, we start out around 7:00 AM, and if possible again at 5:00PM. These hard working dogs mostly sleep all day, but they keep a watch at my living room window. They let me know if any thing unusual happens to walk into our front yard. They have excellent eye sight, and a healthy bark to warn me of any out-of-the-ordinary visitors. Mostly, they know the sound of my car, and of my wife's truck, and stay quiet when we pull into our drive way. Read More >>

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Redmond City Council Member to Seek Superior Court Position

Allen Will Challenge Doug North in August Primary

Redmond City Council Member to Seek Superior Court Position 30

REDMOND, WA. --- Kimberly Allen, 53, twice elected member of the Redmond City Council, announced today that she is running for King County Superior Court, Position 30. Allen has served for seven years on the Council, focusing on smart growth, the environment and regional transit.  Read More >>

Friday, May 18, 2012

Lower Bear Creek Natural Area by Avondale Rd. adds 1.6 acres


Lower Bear Creek "ox-bow" / BY
 (Look for the small  Hartman Pool sign by the sidewalk on Avondale Road)
The Lower Bear Creek Natural Area
Grows by 1.6 Acres
Driving north on Avondale, it's possible you noticed the blue sign “Lower Bear Creek Natural Area” on the east side of the road.  This natural area is about 13 acres and includes what is known as the Grandfather Grove of large second growth trees on the east side of Bear Creek.  It is about four miles upstream from Redmond Town Center and the Sammamish River.    Read More >>

2012 State Lacrosse Girls Championship - Lake Sammamish plays Bainbridge High School

Brought to my attention by lacrosse aficcionado Tom Wehe, American Family Insurance....

Sorry to say  BB won 13 to 11 but it was a really good game.
 
2012 Washington Lacrosse Girls State
Championships
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Eastside Catholic School, Sammamish, Washington
9 a.m. High School All-Star Game
11 a.m. Girls 3rd / 4th Place Game
2 p.m. Girls State Championship Game
SEATTLE — The field is set for Saturday’s Washington Lacrosse Girls State Championship as Bainbridge High School takes on Lake Sammamish in Saturday’s state title game.

The state title matchup, televised On Demand by Comcast, gets underway at 2 p.m. , Saturday, May 19 at the Eastside Catholic School in Sammamish. The state title game is preceded by an 11 a.m. consolation game to determine 3rd / 4th place among the two losing teams in Tuesday’s state semifinals, Lakeside and Mercer Island.

Bainbridge, the defending state champion Read More >>

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

UPDATED: Jeri Rowe-Curtis to fill new City of Redmond "Communications and Marketing" position

City Selects New Communications and Marketing Administrator

Jeri Rowe-Curtis
UPDATED:  Redmond, WA – The City of Redmond has announced the selection of Ms. Jeri Rowe-Curtis to fill the new position of Communications and Marketing Administrator effective June 1st.

Rowe-Curtis comes to the City with a wealth of communications and marketing expertise working with federal, state, regional and local governments, with news and media outlets and with public-private and philanthropic partners to achieve change. She brings a response driven track record of collaboration to affect change. She joins the City of Redmond after a 14-year career with the federal government as the *Director of Public Affairs for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs  "Puget Sound Health Care System" where she managed high profile news, web, social media and crisis communications programs, shaped internal, external and congressional affairs, and strategic partnership development.

Prior to joining the federal government, Rowe-Curtis managed external affairs programs for the University Of Washington School Of Medicine, for the Sisters of Providence Health Care Corporation, and served as a legislative staff member for the King County Executive, for the Assistant Majority Leader of the Washington State Senate and for the Seattle City Council.

Rowe-Curtis, a 22-year former Redmond resident, has received numerous professional awards
Read More >>

Monday, May 14, 2012

Evergreen Hosts Mental Health Forum: "Resilience - A Forgotten Strength"

This event is free and open to everyone...

NAMI-Eastside Education Forum

“RESILIENCE- A FORGOTTEN STRENGTH”
  Guest: Greg Schell, M.Ed.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012, 7 PM - 9 PM
Evergreen Hospital,
Physicians and Surgeons Building Suite Tan 100
2303 NE 130th Lane,
Kirkland, WA 98034

Greg Schell, M.Ed., is the Director of the Washington State Fathers Network. For over 30 years he has been a teacher, family trainer, researcher and principal, working with families and young people.

After a review of the research on dads having children with disability, Greg will address “resilience”, one of the amazing strengths all humans possess to deal with the challenges of life. Certain behaviors can increase our ability to manage the difficulties we encounter more successfully.

Please come willing to discuss some of your own resilient successes, as most likely you have something everyone can learn from.

NAMI-Eastside BLOG - new!

UPDATED: Lake Washington Schools Foundation Legacy Luncheon Slated for Success

Please Join Us For...
"Growing Tomorrow's Great Minds TODAY
One Child at a Time"

The Lake Washington Schools Foundation"7th Annual A Legacy for Learning Luncheon"

Featuring Tony Ventralla
Media Host for the Seattle Seahawks and Seattle Sounders

Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Registration starts at 11:00AM
Program runs from 11:30AM to 12:45PM

Lake Washington High School
12033 NE 80th St.  Kirkland, WA.

Lunch is complimentary; Open and reserve seating. The Foundation suggests a $150 per person donation.  MATCHING GIFTS! Guests have the opportunity to impact students further with gifts of $350 and more matched at 100% and $1,000 and more matched at 200% from our challenge pool! The gift-challenge pool of $100,000 is made up personal commitments by the Board of Trustees and those of our Platinum and Gold corporate supporters.  FAQ

Platinum
Microsoft

Gold Sponsors
Magellan Architects
BOEING
Sodexo
LWYSA
PUGET SOUND ENERGY

Silver Sponsors
Baldwin Resource Group (BRG)
D.A. Davidson & Co.
OVERLAKE Hospital Medical Center
PASSPORT Unlimited
SWEDISH/Redmond
LIVENGOOD, FITZGERALD & ALSKOG, P.L.L.C.
Banner Bank
HERRY
WASTE MANAGEMENT
Kiwanis International
AT&T
This community has contributed over $1.7 million to secure academic excellence and success for all students in the Lake Washington School District. Volunteer, be a table captain, request sponsorship information Contact us now at (425) 936- 1414 or info@lwsf.org

Saturday, May 12, 2012

UPDATED: Evergreen Healthcare is now EvergreenHealth

from the desk of Bob Malte, CEO...
BOB MALTE, CEO & Sup









UPDATED:  As we mark the 40th anniversary of Evergreen, we celebrate all this community has done to help Evergreen grow and expand as our community has grown.

Over the past 40 years, Evergreen has come a very long way under the leadership of our Board of Commissioners and with the talent and dedication of our physicians, staff, volunteers and members of this community.

We began as a small, general hospital in 1972, with only two floors. Today, we are still the deepl y caring hospital this community created then; and we are a sophisticated medical center, using technological advances such as 3D digital mammography and minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery to ensure that our people on the Eastside receive the best care possible. Our distinguised care and service have been recently recognized by HealthGrades, ranking us in the Top 5% of hospitals in the country for clinical excellence, and the Top 10% for our patient experience.

To better reflect who we have become for you, we've decided this anniversary year to introduce a refreshed brand, name and look for Evergreen that honors our 40-year tradition of exceptional clinical care and community service while more effectively reflecting what we have become and aspire to be—the hospital and medical center that aligns the technology, quality, expertise and service required to deliver breakthrough care for you.

We have much to celebrate this 40th year. We invite you to join us in the celebration.

Sincerely,
Chief Executive Officer  
Source
Evergreegn Hospital Website:  http://www.evergreenhospital.org/
Links/ BY

Friday, May 11, 2012

Mustangs Celebrate 2nd Kingco Title in Three Years


Champions
On Thursday night at Woodinville High School, the Redmond Mustangs played like champions and defeated the Issaquah Eagles 7-0 to win the Kingco Conference title.

The Mustangs were firing on all cylinders. Leading the charge offensively were Patrick McGrath, Brent Firth, and Cody Beliel. Each had two hits on the night. Beliel scored two runs. Firth drove in three runs. And, McGrath scored two while driving in two.

On the mound, Adam Cline didn't disappoint as he tossed a complete game shutout. Cline, however, didn't do it alone as he had the help of some outstanding defense. No play was more impressive than senior Peyton Lutz robbing a homerun in leftfield in the 4th inning.

Redmond now heads into the state tournament as the 1 seed from Kingco. The first game is Saturday, May 19th at 1 pm at Kent Memorial Stadium. Be there to root on your Mustangs.  Directions

State Bracket - http://www.wiaa.com/Brackets/T126.pdf

KingCo Champions: 1972, 1976, 1977, 1991, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2008, 2010
Washington State 4A Champions: 1991, 1993

JF-Photo by Jill - find phenomenal, action packed photos from most Mustang games
SOURCE:  RedmondMustangBaseball

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Eastside Schools Rock, By Ross Hunter


Ross Hunter's Blog, May 8, 2012
By Ross Hunter, State Representative, 48th Legislative District, Chairman of Ways and Means Committee

Eastside Schools Rock

5 of the top 5 high schools in Washington State and 5 of the top 200 high schools in the nation are in either the Bellevue or Lake Washington School District, acording to the annual US News and World Report 2012 ranking. While not an uncontroversial ranking (it doesn’t include Bellevue’s football prowess, for example) it’s a well thought-through system of measuring how well high schools prepare students for success in college, AND how well they work with traditionally underserved populations.  READ MORE >>

Co-President of LWSD-PTSA encourages being a member for life.

"CURRENTS," May 2012 Volume 32, Issue -  15,434 members strong!
Lake Washington PTSA Council Monthly Newsletter, Janitzia Pizarro, News Editor

from the desk of Shelley Flores, co-President, LWSD-PTSA Council 2.8...

What does it really mean to be a member of the PTSA for life? Why would anyone want to support the PTSA after their student has "left the building?"

Wendy DeLong explained her reasons for being in PTA.  (She has been a member of a PTA for 29  years.)  Wendy believes that, "the mission of PTA is universal." PTA is about "caring about children and ensuring their welfare" and this benefits everyone in the community. And it is an "obligation of all generations to be responsible for the education and welfare of children and does not end when one's youngest receives a high school diploma." Sandy Hargraves echoed this thought when he said, "It really does take a community to raise a child. PTSA is a great educational alliance."

After hearing what other long-time members have had to say about staying connected, I realized that this is what I want to do, too. Since most PTA's don't often actively pursue alumni members, it will most likely be up to me to make sure I become a member in the future. I can also become a "Friend of the PTA" through Washington State PTA by calling [425-736-1216], their main office. I like the idea of supporting my community by being a life-time member - even after my son has "left the building."

Regards,
Shelley Flores co-President
Lake Washington PTSA Council 2.8
Source:  "CURRENTS," May 2012 Volume 32, Issue 9

This piece has been edited for brevity.  Find Shelly's entire letter in the May Issue of CURRENTS
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Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Herons and Dogs?

 
Nesting herons / KIM CASHON-SMITH
 
Herons and Dogs?

Kim Cashon-Smith lives on Education Hill.  This Spring she took a rare photo of herons nesting in a tree at Marymoor Dog Park  Do you see the chicks?  The mama and papa?  Double-click-pic for help. 

They're Great Blue Herons.  The city says "Great Blues" are our most important bird.  They used to nest in the evergreens across from Saturday Market.  A few years ago crows and eagles scared them away. 

They moved their homes to Issaquah.  And now they're back.  Do you think they'll stay?

Herons and dogs?

What do you say!


xxxx
Live video of Great Blue Herons feeding their chicksCornell University’s Sapsucker Woods Pond 

Redmond area families invited to host exchange students.

"BENNETT'S BUNCH" FROM LAST YEAR
Liven Up Your July -  Be Connected Forever!
Educational Homestay Program Starts July 12. Sign-Up Today!
Educational Homestay Program (EF), is a non-profit organization  bringing short-term foreign exchange students to our area for many summers ~ perhaps you've met some!
 
50 high school students from Spain and China will be living in and around Redmond this summer from July 12-31 and we need many host families to take them in. (We can find a filler family if you will be gone part of the time.)
 
Hosting is super easy and fun since the students will go on daily field trips and to school at RJH each M-F from 9-5 (being taught by the ever-popular Ms. Samppala) . Host family members are welcome to attend field trips and just need to provide meals, transportation to RJH, and a bed.
 
You can host 1-4 students but most host 2. (Students can share a room with you or each other.) They also bring their own spending $ and are fully insured.
 
Hosting can often be counted for community service hours. For more info please don't delay in contacting Kris Bennett at Bennettbunch@aol.com  or 425-890-9252 and check out the EF website: http://www.ef.com/ehp 
 
By Kris Bennett
Education Hill neighbor
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Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission approves electric and natural gas rate hikes.



 PGE 
The Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission orders Puget Sound Energy (PSE) to raise electric rates by 3.2 % and natural gas prices by 1.3%.   The rates are significantly less than originally requested by PSE.  The new rates will take effect on May 14.   
PGE originally requested an 8.1 percent increase for electric service and 3.0 percent increase for natural gas service.  
The commission also approved an increase of about 30 percent in contributions to PSE’s residential electric low-income assistance program. Customer contributions to the program will increase from $.59 to $.76 a month, beginning May 14.
Source:  Letter from WSUTC responding to a public comment.  Read More >>

UPDATED: Redmond Mustangs defeat Newport, On To State


Hot Bats and a Dominant Pitching Lead to a 9-1 Win /
JILL FLYNN
On To State

Plays Issaquah this Thursday for Kingco title game.

Wins for the 14th time in 15 games since a 0-7 record at start of season

From the opening bell, the Redmond Mustangs were ready to go, scoring five runs in the bottom of the first. The big blows came off the bats of a pair of sophomores, Lucas Eliason and Kyle Francis. Eliason lined a two run double down the right-field line while Francis drove a triple in the right-center gap for three RBI of his own. Of the 12 total hits off Mustang bats, senior Patrick McGrath had three, one a two run bomb to left.

That first inning run production was more than enough for starter Peter Hendron. The power-pitching righthander only gave up one hit on the day, a solo homerun to Nate Anderson. The performance by Hendron and the hot bats send the Mustangs off to the state regionals on May 19th.

For more on Hendron and the game, check out the Seattle Times story - http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/highschoolsports/2018162726_riley08.html

Redmond now prepares for the Kingco title game against the Issaquah Eagles. Be at Woodinville High School on Thursday, 5/10, 7 pm to root on your Mustangs.

Photo collage by Jill Flynn
Source:  Redmond Mustange website,  Dan Pudwill

City moves forward on plan to re-locate Evans Creek

Evans Creek headwaters are in East King County along the Old Red Brick Road.  The creek continues north and west through SE Redmond industries, past Keller Farm, before it's confluence with Bear Creek.   Bear Creek flows into the Sammamish River which flows into Lake Washington and Puget Sound.
On May 1, the Redmond city council approved land acquisitions to relocate Evans Creek north and east and away from SE Redmond industries. (See map).  If negotiations to purchase the property are unsuccessful the Council approved  use of eminent domain.
The benefits of re-locating Evans Creek are many.  Relocation: 1) improves habitat for wild salmon and wildlife, 2)  increases the land values and opportunity for redevelopment of industrial properties, 3) encourages clean-up of hazardous waste and further safeguards the city aquifer 4) improves flood water conveyence, 5) enhances Bear-Evans Creek Trail recreation with restored riparian habitat.
Evans Creek is an important and valuable stream in SE Redmond that's been heavily impacted by industrial development and permiting violations, as has "AWR."  Read More >>

Sunday, May 6, 2012

Place your bets on The Daily Double!! Marymoor Velodrome and RHS!!


Season Kick-off Party and Roller Racing Extravaganza
Saturday May 12, 7-10 PM
Hale's Ales in the Palladium

Marymoor Velodrome (Marymoor Park)
•All ages

•Track-specific bike swap (bring your stuff to trade and sell!)

•Food and beverages available

•See your long lost track friends! The season's almost here!

First heats on the roller bikes (fixed fork) scheduled for 7:30. Spin to win!

Not many places can boast a biking velodrome, and Redmond's has been around now for nearly 40 years. The Velodrome has hosted many national championships, 1990 Goodwill Games and many Olympic hopefuls. Learn more about the Velodrome in the evening at the Beer Gardens of the Roller Racing extravaganza or the Redmond Historical Society (RHS) media event in the morning...or both!  Place your bets, it's The Daily Double!!

Please join the RHS on Saturday, May 12th, 10:30 AM in the auditorium of the Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Center, 16600 NE 80th St. Redmond, WA, when Jerry Baker, one of the volunteers who made it happen, takes us on a history tour.
 
Photo:  'black and white' courtesy of RHS
Banner:  courtesy of the Marymoor Veledrome Association
Follow Redmond Neighborhood Blog facebook page on www.facebook.com/redmondblogger

Redmond Mustangs gutted out Woodinville in first round of Kingco Playoffs




A Total Team Effort Leads Redmond to a Win/ JILL FLYNN
  Kingco Playoff Time

The Redmond Mustangs gutted out a 3-2 win over the Woodinville Falcons in the first round of the Kingco playoffs on Saturday morning.

The win was due in large part to the effort of senior pitcher, Adam Cline. The crafty right-hander held the Falcon bats to only three hits on the day. Offensively, junior Brent Firth hit a monster blast over the right-centerfield fence for a solo homerun in the 2nd inning. And, senior Patrick McGrath came up clutch driving in the other two runs, the game winner on a two out, two strike pitch in the 5th inning.

The win puts the Mustangs one game away from the state tournament. Standing in their way is division rival, Newport. The game is Monday at 4 pm at Woodinville High School.  Be there.

Click here for bracket information: PLAYOFF BRACKET

Source:  Redmond Miustang Baseball website, Coach Dan Pudwill
Collage Photos By Jill Flynn - find phenomenal, action packed photos from most Mustang games

KingCo Champions: 1972, 1976, 1977, 1991, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2008, 2010
Washington State 4A Champions: 1991, 1993

Find Redmond Blog facebook page here www.facebook.com/redmondblog

Friday, May 4, 2012

"Funeral Service Education Program" receives accreditation at Lake Washington Institute of Technology

Restorative art course teaches funeral
preparation skills 
from the desk of Jen Boyer, Media Relations, Lake Washington Institute of Seattle...

We’re excited to announce our "Funeral Service Education Program" received accreditation. All of our graduates from that first class have found work, which starts in the $40,000 to $50,000 a year pay range. We can provide students, graduates and/or faculty if you’re interested in an interview. Students come from all over the state to take our course.

Students in LWIT’s Funeral Service Education’s restorative art course learn valuable skills in applying cosmetics and performing hair styling in preparation for funeral presentation.

Press Release:   Read more >>

Thursday, May 3, 2012

UPDATED: Dr. Traci Pierce updates LWSD staff on organizational structure


2012-13  Organizational Chart
CLICK TO ENLARGE 
UPDATED:  Dr. Traci Pierce, who will take over as Lake Washington School District superintendent on July 1, announced the district’s Central Leadership Team (CLT) for the 2012-13 school year. The new structure and any changes in position will take effect on July 1. Her annoucemement was made by email to the entire LWSD staff on May 4. 

Support the Redmond Bike Park



The Appellants lost and filed with King County Superior Court and it's not likely the case will be resolved until 2013.   Thanks to Doug Schmidt for this information, Steering Committee co-Chair, works at Performance Bikes in Bellevue.

Families, BMX kids and neighbors clear weeds from the Neighborhood Bike Park project area, 2010

Support for Redmond Bike Park - attend council meeting

Dear Neighbors on Education Hill,
We are writing because of some overstated comments to the proposal for the Redmond Bike Park.  The site is not six times larger than present, as stated in the Redmond Reporter editorial last week.  This 2.51 acre site has an area approximately 0.7 acres on the west edge that has been used by cyclists since 1990.  According to the proposed 2.51 acre project by the Redmond Parks and Recreation Department, the affected area would be 0.7 acres.  

Another incorrect editorial comment said that the City would remove “hundreds of trees”, yet according to the project plans, more than 80% of the site’s significant trees will be retained.  The entire project has been designed in keeping with the landscape and concern for the Redmond community and the neighborhood of Education Hill.  Read More >>

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

OPENING DAYS for the Redmond Saturday Market!

The Cadillac of farmer markets celebrates its 37th season with 80 vendors weekly!  Organic choices in produce, fruits, berries, cheese, eggs and meats.  Find great selections of plants, herbs, flowers, breads, jams, honey, fish, specialty sauces and nuts.  Enjoy crepes, tamales, pizza, Italian food, shave ice, ice cream, popcorn and pastries for lunch.  Listen to our live bands every Saturday.  Find one-of-a-kind gifts made by our local artisans.  Chef Demos, Zucchini Races, Story Time, Cowboys, Hula Dancers, Kids Day, and Pet Parades are why we want you...

Monday, April 30, 2012

OPINION: Excessive use of Emergency Rooms hit home

OPINION :  Excessive use of Emergency Rooms (ER) in Washington State is widespread.  According to the Washington State Hospital Association 11% of all ER visits are avoidable. It's such a problem that our legislature is advising a reduction in the number of preventable ER visits by June 15, 2012.  The average charge of an ER visit is $5,353.  An avoidable  ER visit averages $1,600.   My relative, Jane, was admited to Overlake Hospital ER by an Overlake Urgent Care Physician's Assistent. But, her charge was $7605 and probably avoidable (She had constipation). Many would call this abusive. In fact, an agency is looking into it.

For those of you who have a similar unfortunate experience in an ER your insurance company should be able to help.  Most can direct you to the Fraud and Abuse hot-line.  Excessive charges and procedures are considered "abuse" and should be reported. Overlake Hospital offers the services of a "patient advocate," however don't be mislead - they advocate for the hospital first.

Insurance companies are your friend.  They want to keep their costs down while servicing their clients.   Our insurance rep from Regence arranged a conference call with Overlake to find out why Jane was charged weeks ago without any notification to the carrier.  The agent assured me Jane would get a good rate on insurance and we did.   Appealling the insurance company wasn't necessary. They certainly did their job.

The Washington State Hospital Association reported on 2/11, "One in nine ER visits are avoidable.  Potentially avoidable ER visits can be appropriately treated in another setting at the time the ER visit occurred."

Evergreen Hospital appears to have really caught on to this concept.   I've found pamphlets in their medical hallways to educate patients on how to choose the best place to go for health care.  In addition, Evergreen's Redmond & Woodinville primary care and urgent cares are in the same buildings to facilitate appropriate treatment in a setting other than an ER. 

Unfortunately, Overlake Redmond Urgent Care didn't have a clinical laboratory or contrast Cat Scan, so they sent Jane to the ER for these tests.  Evergreen's Redmond clinics have a lab and imaging department so you don't have to be admitted to an ER.  Same with Virginia Mason - Kirkland.  Read More >>

Sunday, April 29, 2012

Mustang's 2nd Seed in Playoff - May 5


Patrick McGrath's two doubles not enough as Mustangs lose to Issaquah, 3-1. /JILL FLYNN 

Unlucky 13
The Redmond Mustangs' win streak came to an end as they ran into a buzzsaw on the mound on Friday. Issaquah, riding the right arm of starter Brandon Mahovalich, defeated Redmond 3-1. The loss was the first for the Mustangs in 13 games.

Redmond now will turn its attention to the playoffs, beginning on Saturday, May 5th, 10 a.m. at Woodinville High School. With the loss and Skyline's back to back 2-1 wins, Redmond will enter as the 2 seed from the Crest Division. Redmond's first playoff game will be at 10 am on the Saturday with the opponent still to be determined.

Source:  Redmond Mustang Baseball, Coach Pudwill
Photo by Jill Flynn - find phenomenal, action packed photos from most Mustang games

Saturday, April 28, 2012

Call to Artists for: "Day of Art and Culture"

Masjid Ar-Rahmah in Redmond, WA.
Call to Artists: Day of Art & Culture

The "Muslim Association of Puget Sound" (MAPS) is pleased to announce a Call to Artists for a show case of artwork to be displayed at "Day of Art & Culture" on June 16th, 2012.

Art and Culture Day aims to promote creativity among Washington Muslims and to share the diversity of Islamic heritage with Muslims and Non-Muslims alike.

Events for that day include an art exhibit, country booths, youth and children activities, performances, and food. The Day of Art & Culture will be held at the Masjid Ar-Rahmah in Redmond.

This Call to Artists is open to all Washington artists, including high school and college art students. Submissions are due by May 11, 2012, with the accepted artwork to be announced May 18, 2012. Showcased artists will need to set up artwork for display on June 15th and artwork can be for sale.

To apply, submit a short bio, photos of your work and a link to your website or Facebook page to acraftyarab@gmail.com .

Contact acraftyarab@gmail.com for more information and official guidelines.

By:  Koloud 'Kay' Tarapolsi

A Crafty Arab
http://www.acraftyarab.com (please note new website address)
http://www.zibbet.com/acraftyarab

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Brown's Garage Liquor License Auctioned for $281,660



Bidder wins state liquor license for historic Brown's Garage

 According to Washington State Liquor Control Board records, Jeffrey Roh won the state auction for and rights to the downtown Redmond liquor store license, located at 16389 Redmond Way. Roh's winning bid was $281,660. Roh used a Milton, WA. mailing address in the auction. He was also the successful bidder for the stores at Mukilteo and Issaquah.

The store, an attractive brick building once housed a 20-car repair shop owned in the 1920's  by Redmond's Mayor Bill Brown.  Known as "Brown's Garage"  this historic landmark is protected by laws governing historic buildings.

Several small businesses active in the Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce were also involved in the auction process.

Reported and Photo By Bob Yoder

Opinion:  "Mayor Sits on 20-day Notice," April, 2010
Opinion:  "The City's New Liquor Store - You can't miss it."  April, 2010

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Bird at Farrel McWirther Park


What kinda bird is this?  A baby owl?   Hawk? 
"Spotted yesterday on the Perimeter Train next to the Arena entrance to Farrel McWirther Park"
 Source:  Farrel-McWhirter Park Farm Facebook Page
Who took this awsome picture?

 "I checked with my bird expert friend and it is a “recently fledged great horned owl”
  --Terry

Comment:  I'm not an ornithologist, but my guess is a juvenile Great Horned Owl. I've seen an adult in Westside Park before.  According to Wikipedia, we have the possibility of seeing both the Coastal Great Horned Owl, as well as the Northwestern Great Horned Owl.
   --Douglas Burchard Rose Hill Neighborhood 

LWSD news: artwork, inspiring teachers, park clean-up, planting school habitat

News from the Schools – April 24, 2012 

Redmond High School artwork places first in Holocaust Art Contest
Einstein Elementary Evironmental Club planted 43 native species to build school yard habitat.
Redmond High School teacher, Peter Saxby selected "Inspirational Teacher."
Northstar Elementary students raise money for Leukemia and Lymphoma
LWHS students honored at Kirkland Volunteer Appreciation event.

Planting Day: Einstein Elementary: School Yard Habitat.  On April 12, students from the Einstein Elementary Environmental Club, The Green Teams, planted 43 native species to build the Einstein Elementary School Yard Habitat (SYH). Students planted 10 Bald Hip Rose, 10 Snowberry, 10 Salmonberry, 4 Red-osier Dogwood, 5 Beaked Hazelnut, and 4 Pacific Ninebark. Read More >>

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Mustang bats come alive with monumental comeback



JILL FLYNN/  "Bats come alive to humble Skyline"
Down But Not Out
Come-back win secures playoff berth.  Final home game is Wednesday 4/25, Senior Night.

Another night at the yard, another look at the improbable. The Redmond Mustangs, down 8-0 after the first inning, battled back to defeat the Skyline Spartans 12-8 on a sun-drenched Monday at Hartman Park. The win secures a playoff berth for the Mustangs and places them only a 1/2 game behind the Crest Division leading Spartans.

The win would not have been possible without the pitching effort of senior Thomas Crosley. Coming in down two runs and the bases loaded with nobody out, Crosley worked to minimize the damage. However, due to some bloop hits and fielding miscues, the Spartans put up an eight spot in the first. Though, that would be all she wrote for the Spartan offense as Crosley allowed just two more baserunners in the next 3 2/3 innings of work. Adam Cline came in for the final 2 1/3 to earn his third save on the year.

Offensively, the flood gates opened in the third as the Mustangs plated five. The big blow in this inning came from sophomore Brandon Burditt as he laced a two run double down the line. Redmond would score five more in the fourth as Cody Beliel, Peter Hendron, Lucas Eliason, and Peyton Lutz all notched hits in the inning. Two more insurance runs would be tacked on in the fifth due in part to senior Steven Danek stealing his way home.

Redmond now turns their attention to the Newport Knights for a Wednesday night matchup. First pitch is at 6 pm. This will be the final home game for the 12 Mustang seniors, so come on out and join in the celebration and recognition of these proud Mustangs.

Source:  Mustang Baseball website

Jill Flynn's photo gallery: http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/store.aspx?p=33937

Monday, April 23, 2012

Lake Washington Schools Foundation Luncheon features Tony Ventrella

Wednesday May 23, 2012 
1:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m
Lake Washington High School
Keynote Speaker, Tony Ventrella
Digital Media Host, Seattle Seahawks and Seattle Sounders
Former Sports Director, KIRO TV and KING TV
REGISTER HERE

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Redmond's Peter Hendron hurls a perfect game against Wolves

Peter Hendron - Perfection!
Photo Image By JILL FLYNN
Some say perfection is an unattainable ideal. Not Friday at Eastlake High School as senior Peter Hendron hurled a perfect game for a 1-0 win against the rival Wolves. The win runs the Redmond Mustang win streak to 10.

Hendron was dominant from the outset, throwing three pitches for strikes. His fastball had the needed giddyup and the curve ball kept the opposing Wolves off balance all game. In his seven innings of work, Hendron needed only 96 pitches to set down 21 Eastlake batters in order. He struck out ten and induced five groundouts and six flyouts.

However, Redmond needed to score a run in order for the game to be complete. They did just that in the top of the 7th with a two out rally. Junior Brent Firth blooped a single to center. From there, pinch-runner Max Hicok stole second and moved up on a seeing eye single from sophomore pinch-hitter, Kyle Francis. After a walk to Brandon Burditt to load the bases, Cody Beliel was plunked to walk in the winning run.

Redmond looks to run their win streak to 11 with a matchup with the Crest Division leading Skyline Spartans on Monday at Hartman Park. First pitch is at 6 pm. Be there ... you never know what may happen!

Peter is a scholarship athlete playing for Santa Clara University next year.

Source:  Redmond Mustang Baseball site

Friday, April 20, 2012

Annual Spring Plant Sale - Lake Washington Institute of Technology


Lake Washington Institute of Technology - Environmental Horticultural Greenhouse
 Don Marshall, Environmental Horticulture Instructor at Lake Washington Institute of Technology  oversees the upcoming Annual Spring Plant Sale in Kirkland 

The sale is not only a component of the students curriculum but raises money that helps support the program while at the same time offering an opportunity for the public to purchase plants and get a little exposure to our program.

The students have been working diligently this past quarter sowing seeds, nurturing and growing on the majority of plants that will be offered for sale. I have included a link to their website  which offers additional details and information regarding the sale and some basic information below…

Annual Spring Plant Sale
April 27-28May 4-5, 9:00am-3:00pm
(new stock on both weekends!)
11605 132nd Ave NE
Kirkland, WA 98034

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Earth Day Seedling Sale benefits "Sustainable Redmond"

John Reinke,  proud owner of  Western Hemlock seedling
Earth Day Seedling Sale benefits Sustainable Redmond

In the spirit of Earth Day, Sustainable Redmond is making available select Western Hemlock seedlings in return for contributions to our 2012 Overlake Tree Preservation Campaign. As you may know, the current plan is that the 28 acre Group Health property in Overlake will be clear cut for development, and Sustainable Redmond is working to have this plan overturned.

The Western Hemlock is the Washington State tree, and, while these seedlings can’t replace Overlake’s mature urban forest, planting these locally will help clean our air and water.

Seedlings will be for sale at the Earth Day celebration at 21 Acres in Woodinville from 3 - 5pm on Saturday, April 21. Seedlings will also be available at 9am at the Green Kirkland Partnership Restoration Event at Juanita Bay Park, 2201 Market Street in Kirkland.

Check out http://www.sustainableredmond.org/  for more info on the issue, as well as for on-line giving using PayPal and other ways to contribute to our mission.
 
--John, Tom, Cindy
Sustainable Redmond
Photo by Yoder

Chair of Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce updates community on "One Redmond"

“One Redmond” FAQ's - edition #1
   -By Bob Hale, Meagan Walker and Andrea Lachmann
    April, 2012, Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Andrea Lachmann, Chair GRCC

Andrea Lachmann, the Chair of the Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) board of trustees, has had a voice and a seat at the One Redmond table.  As promised in last month’s Chamber Newsletter Andrea is committed to updating the membership on the latest and greatest One Redmond news:

Q:  What is One Redmond and how did the idea come about? 

Lachmann: The concept grew out of the awareness that there were three organizations working on behalf of Redmond residents, employees, and businesses to help improve the social and economic landscape of our community.
  • Our focus at the Chamber is on helping the businesses to prosper.
  • The Redmond Economic Development Alliance was established to recruit and retain new industries 
  • Realize Redmond is dedicated to supporting community projects, programs and special events.
We were finding that not only did many of our objectives overlap, but we were also competing for some of the same financial resources. We decided that it was worth pursuing the idea of consolidating our efforts and resources.

Q: What is the vision for One Redmond?  Read More >>

Sunday, April 15, 2012

Family Business is Back!

FAMILY BUSINESS IS BACK!
  By Linda and Leon Hussey

This is truly a ‘Family Business’! Leon and Linda Hussey, former owners of Classic Nursery and Landscape Co., are back in business at 12526 Avondale Rd. NE. in Redmond. Since 2002 after selling Classic, the Husseys started another business called “Keep It Simple, Inc. (K. I. S.).”

Keep It Simple sells compost tea makers (invented originally by Leon Hussey) and the organic ingredients to put into the machines to make compost tea. Compost tea is used to replace the biology in the soil and is like ‘vitamins’ to plants. It can often make a plant stronger to ward off diseases.

The Husseys have owned the over 7 acres site located on Avondale since 2002. They sold their business and continued to lease the land to Classic Nursery & Landscape Co. This year they regained the property and are not only moving their current business but starting an ‘urban farm store’ and will also be selling organic hydroponic products. “The Farm” will have chickens, chicken coops, bee hives, rabbits, ducks, dog, cats, healthy feed for animals, as well as bird seed and feeders. As they grow, they will have fresh eggs, produce and many other organic products. The almost 8 acres will be dedicated to sustainability, permaculture and education.  Read More >>

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

UPDATED: Legislative action to limit prescribing of narcotics in ER's expected by June 15

Hospital and free-standing  ER's over prescribe
narcotics like Percodan, Oxycontin, Vicodin 
UPDATED:  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention it's recommended doctors limit prescription pain medications, especially opiates, prescribed through the emergency rooms.  Good to know, seeing Redmond has 5 Emergency Departments within ~12 miles and opiates like Oxycontin are extremely addicting and can be lethal.

Comment:  In February, a close family member (Jane) was admitted to Overlake Hospital ER by an Overlake-Redmond Urgent Care Physician's Assistant for recurring, moderate abdominal pain.  Even though we told the doctor that Jane had previous treatment and imaging for abdominal pain at Virginia Mason he didn't check her medical records or ask for details. Rather, he immediately put her on Hydro-morphine Inj and after a $7,605 charge for ER services, sent her home with a bottle of 12 narcotic pills and a diagnosis of abdominal pain even after a CT radiologists indicated constipation.  Jane took only two pills.  The next day laxatives relieved her pain.  Yes, it was constipation causing the pain (and opiates make constipation worse!) B.Y.

So, now what to do with the remaining 10 addicting pills?  Read More >>

Car prowlers steal victim's vehicle registrations then rob their homes

Lt. Gorman of the Redmond Police Department wants the public to be aware of a series of motor vehicle prowls and burglary incidents that have occurred in Redmond and other east side locations over the past few weeks.

There have been three reported incidents to the Redmond Police Department thus far and the Redmond Police are aware of more in neighboring jurisdictions.

The crime starts when a victim’s vehicle is broken into while it is parked unattended in a parking lot of a public place like a move theater or restaurant and the vehicle registration and other valuables are taken. The victim’s residence is then burglarized a short time later while the victim is still unaware of the vehicle prowl.  The suspect(s) are probably using the vehicle registration as a way to get the victim’s home address r to burglarize it.

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

County pet policy is posted on LW school district grounds, allows more freedom for dog owners.



Yipp! Yipp!   It must be 'happy hour!"   
 Dogs are not allowed on school grounds during school hours (7 a.m and 4 p.m),
 except service dogs.

BUT in non-school hours including weekends, King County regulations allow dogs on school grounds as long as they're on leash and cleaned up afterwards.
Ruff!  Ruff!

Dogs are not allowed within the sports stadium complexes at any time, except service dogs. The new signs are posted district-wide.  Archaic city codes are removed;  district policy changed.

By Bob Yoder

OPINION:  "LWSD re-writes regulation" (16 comments):   http://redmondcity.blogspot.com/2011/06/opinion-lake-washington-school-district.html

Monday, April 9, 2012

OP-ED: The Mayor's proclamation of Dr. Kimball's success seems premature

"Superintendent-elect" Dr. Traci Pierce at Redmond  City Hall "Meet and Greet"
Mayor John Marchione in background
Traci will implement Kimball's plan for re-alignment and performance improvements 
OP-ED:  Dr. Kimball initiated the K-5, 6-8 and 9-12 grade realignment over two years ago and the transition won't take effect until Fall 2012 when students, teachers, sports schedules, curriculum, classroom assignments, bus routes and extra curricular activities will all be moved around and reshuffled on a grand scale affecting thousands of students. Will this turn out successfully for each and every student in the district? We've been reassured that *everything* is being taken care of and is under control, but I get the feeling from talking to other parents and kids that the middle schools and high schools will be stressed, if not chaotic, with the new grade assignments. Dr. Kimball is walking away before anyone knows if next year's transition will be a success or if it will be a painful, difficult mess that takes years to work through. I'm sorry, but I think Dr. Kimball packing up and leaving at this most critical time is rather irresponsible. A proclamation by the mayor of Dr. Kimball's great contribution and success seems premature and inappropriate.

By Anonymous on Mayor Marchione honors Dr. Chip Kimball by Proclam... on 4/8/12)
Photo:  Patch.com (Internet)

Thursday, April 5, 2012

4/12/12: Mayor Marchione honors Dr. Chip Kimball by Proclamation

Dr. Chip Kimball
Superintendent, Lake Washington School District,  2007 - 2012

Read by Mayor John Marchione on March 27, 2012....

 PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Chip Kimball started his education career by teaching science at Madera High School in California; and  Read More >>

WHEREAS, Chip Kimball took his first administrative education job in the Fresno Unified School  District in California; and

WHEREAS, Chip Kimball earned his doctorate in educational leadership from the university of Southern California in 1995, thus earning himself the title of doctor; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Kimball has served the LWSD since 1996 in roles including Chief Information Officer, Assistant Superintendent, and Deputy Superintendent; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Kimball's work has resulted in one of the most comprehensive and effective educational technology implementations in the country and he was recognized by eSchool News as one of ten 2010 Tech-Savvy Superintendents;and

WHEREAS, Lake Washington PTSA Council honored Dr. Kimball with its Outstanding Service Award, its highest honor, as someone who works for all children to help them achieve their potential; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Kimball has dedicated his career to the service of educating our children, so that every child is future-ready, prepared for college, prepared for the global workplace and prepared for personal success:

NOW, THEREFORE, I JOHN MARCHIONE, Mayor of the City of Redmond, do hereby reorganize 

DR. CHIP KIMBALL

for his valuable contributions to Redmond, the LWSD, and the eastside community; and I urge all residents to join me in honoring him. 

SIGNED:  John Marchione, Mayor, March 27, 2012

OP-ED:  Mayor's proclamation of Dr. Kimball is premature...4/9/12 

COMMENTS:  The March 27 Redmond city council study session started with presentations from Dr. Chip Kimball and superintendent-elect Dr. Traci Pierce. Chip recalled being hired by Sup. Barnes in l996 as the district's first Chief Information Officer. He became Superintendent when Dr. Don Saul retired in 2007.

Chip decided to leave Redmond "after much consternation" and spend a term as Superintendent of Singapore School. He leaves in July. Dr. Kimball wants to grow his leadership as an educator from his experience in the global workplace of Asia, and apply it back home.

Dr. Kimball said he was proud of the 95% graduation rate at LWSD; that 70% enter college; accolades for International School, that Redmond High is rated in the top 50 of all high schools in the country and the district got 11 recognitions from the state in 2011.

Dr. Kimball was on the Executive Committee for the Chamber and a Director on the Redmond Economic Development Association. He stated emphatically that education IS the economic development engine."

Mayor John Marchione read a Proclamation from a plaque. After giving Dr. Kimball the plaque Chip said how he appreciated his partnership with John. "John was a wonderful partner. We had a "heads up agreement" we could pick up the phone and call each other..."   He said he lives in Redmond and looks forward to coming back home.

By Bob Yoder

UPDATED: City Assigns three School Resource Officers


The City of Redmond assigned three (3) regularly employed officers to the following areas of coverage; one at Redmond High School, one at Redmond Junior High School, and one at Rose Hill Junior High School. Although generally assigned to the above named high school and junior high schools, the SRO's may provide coverage to the nearby schools and areas surrounding the principle campuses identified. The services provided by the SRO are in addition to normal police services already provided by the City.

Last year the city shared SRO costs with the school district.  It appears the city is picking up all the costs, though this is unconfirmed. 

READER COMMENT:  "The agreement renewal covers School Resource Officer services for Lake Washington School District for a sum of $40,000" according to http://www.ci.redmond.wa.us/common/pages/UserFile.aspx?fileId=71211  4/5

Read More>>

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

LETTER: Tree Sock Art Installation


from the desk of Councilman Hank Myers....

LETTER:  You asked some interesting questions about 
"tree sock art" and I have completed some research with the help of Parks staff and assistance from a former Department of Natural Resources official.

On the issue of impact to the trees, an extensive answer is below.  These wraps have been around for years, with no apparent damage.  The only observed change was suppression of moss on the tree bark, which I am not sure is a negative. You also raised concerns about the impact on squirrels.  While it is true that the western gray squirrel is protected, it is because its habitat was overrun by the eastern gray squirrel, which is what populates Anderson Park.  The eastern gray squirrel is not protected.   Read More >>