Redmond "Community Indicators Report" is Revealing

John Marchione

Mayor Marchione's April, 2011 cover letter to the 6th annual "Redmond Community Indicators" report is informative, positive and revealing: 

"Dear Neighbors:   Every year we update a variety of indicators to track our progress towards achieving the City's future vision and goals.  These indicators not only help us see trends, but also can help you stay informed about steps we take to advance your priorities"...and are a means of tracking our planning process.  

The Mayor writes:  Salmon count on Bear Creek is up, Parks, Rec, and Cultural event access is now reported and trending up, and "many people are taking greater advantage of city offerings online with more permits issued (63%) and more web visits (6.7M) [*on the old platform] than in previous years." (1)  Digging into the 2010 report, albeit selectively, we find some interesting tidbits: 

• PUBLIC SAFETY:  Firemen's average Response time improved by 3 seconds to 6 min 0 sec.   
• The average emergency medical response times worsened by seven seconds to 6 min 38 seconds, [assuming stop watches were calibrated.]   
• FIRE:  No trend in city fire prevention or mitigation:   0.3 Fires spread beyond room of origin.  6 fire investigations reported damage exceeded $10,000 in 2010. 
• CRIME:  Residential and commercial burglaries (198), identity thefts (202), and motor vehicle prowls (612) are up from 2009.  Violent crimes (51) decreased. 
• COLLISIONS:  The trend is down for vehicle collisions (22) involving bike/peds.  The numbers of vehicle collisions not involving bike/peds are down from 899 (2006) to 767 (2010).  [The downward trend in collisions was recorded prior to the red light safety camera program.]  
• TRAFFIC:  Traffic growth at intersections increased 7.6% in 12 years (1996-2008)
• AM COMMUTE:  36% of employees surveyed (CTR) in 2009 arrived at work by a mode other than driving alone.  The trend is up:  in 2003, 25% traveled in non-single occupancy morning trips.
• SCHOOL BUS:  The trend in student bus ridership is up:  38% of students (9200) rode the bus to school in 2009 vs. 31% in 2008.  (Mass transit included).  Total student population is 24,085. 
• LW DISTRICT SCHOOLS:  The graduation rate for the District as a whole was 87% in 2010.  The graduation rate for Redmond High School was 88%.
• FISH & WILDLIFE:   "While not a long term trend, 65,000 juvenile Chinook were counted in Bear Creek in 2009."  24 spawning Chinook were counted in Bear Creek, 2010.
• Bird watchers at Marymoor Park ID'd two new species in 2010:  Sandhill Crane and Common Poorwill.  Bald Eagle sightings are more common than 10 years ago.  240 Great Blue Heron sightings.
• STREAMS:   50% of stream sites tested for Stream Water Quality are "marginal".  50% of streams are considered safe for human contact and can support fish and wildlife.  (Updated January, 2011).  Starting in 2009, samples are not taken during or after rainstorms when water quality declines.
• Read More by clicking the blue link >>

Short-Term Exchange Students Coming to Redmond Area

The Bennetts welcoming Juan and Zavier

Education First (EF) is an Educational Homestay Program (a non-profit organization) that does a great job of organizing activities in the United States for international students.  Kris Bennett, Redmond Homestay Program organizer says "more important than the activities, are the relationships formed."   Over 140,000 international students since 1979 have lived with host families to learn American culture first hand. 



Welcome to America!

 Bennett says, "This year, Redmond will have 10-12 students returning to oue area from last year because they had such a great experience. We also have a large number of returning host families. I think it speaks a lot for the program and the life-changing experience for both the students and the host families."  Spanish, French and  Chinese students will live with Redmond area host families for 2-3 weeks starting in July on a first come, first serve basis. 

The greater Redmond area groups we offer are:

July 7 -26   Redmond Spanish General Group (14-18 years old)
This group will go to class at Redmond Jr. High and field trips each Mon. through Fri. from 9-5
*You can host up to 4 students (but most host 2)
The students can share a room with each other or anyone in family within three years of their age and same gender.  Families are welcome to go on field trips.

July 6 -18  Redmond French Immersion Group (14-18 years old)
This group will have 2-3 field trips and no morning classes at RJH.
*You can  host 1 French student (but could do a Spanish and French together.
Families are welcome to go on field trips.

July 14- 27  Redmond Chinese Junior Group (10-14 years old)
This group will go to class at Redmond Jr. High and field trips each Mon. through Fri. from 9-5
*You can host 1-4 students (but most take 2)
The students can share a room with each other or anyone in family within three years of their age and same gender. Families/host kids are welcome to go on field trips as well.
 
 July 7-26  Sammamish Spanish Immersion Group (14-18 year olds)
This group will have a few field trips each week but no morning classes.
Families are welcome to go on field trips.
*You can only host 1 Spanish student

If you are hosting and will be at your home most of the time, but need a few days away, Kris can often find a family who will take your student(s) for a few of the days.

Ms. Bennett says, "We will be taking host families on a first come, first serve basis. If you want to host, please sign up as soon as possible so you get the gender and country of your choice."  Contact:  Kris Bennett.

Kris Bennett
Bennettbunch@aol.com

425-890-9252

Johnson's hat trick leads Lake Sammamish past Lakeside 9-7 in girls lacrosse

Johnson’s hat trick leads Lake Sammamish past Lakeside 9 – 7 in girls lax - Division II.

SEATTLE – Alex Johnson scored 3 goals to lead Lake Sammamish Girls Lacrosse Club to its seventh win of the season with a 9 – 7 girls Division II high school lacrosse defeat of Lakeside, Thursday at the Lakeside School in north Seattle.

Lake Sammamish built on a narrow 4 – 3 halftime lead to steadily pull away from the Lions in the second for the win.

Johnson grabbed 5 ground balls and Amelia Chirichigno had 2 goals and 4 ground balls for Lake Sammamish. Annabel Bench netted 3 goals for Lakeside.

Lake Sammamish (7-3-0) next faces Snohomish (6-3-1), Monday, May 2 in a 5:15 p.m. start at Harvey Air Field in Snohomish. Lakeside (3-6-0) next faces Wenatchee (3-7-0), Saturday, April 30 in a 3 p.m. start at Westside High School in Wenatchee.

SCORING HIGHLIGHTS: Lake Sammamish 9, Lakeside 7 (Alex Johnson, LSM, 3 goals, 1 assists, 5 ground balls, 2 caused turnovers, 3 draw controls; Amelia Chirichigno, LSM, 2 goals, 4 ground balls, 1 draw control; Sarah Crause, LSM, 1 goal, 1 ground balls, 5 draw controls; Michelle Bodman, LSM, 2 saves; Annabel Bench, LSD, 3 goals, 1 assist; Christina Kuhrau, LSD, 1 goal; Kate Kim, LSD, 1 goal; Hyuen Soo-Seu, LSD, 1 goal; Julia Laurence, LSD, 1 goal)
 
Reported by US Lacrosse

UPDATED: Redmond High School's DECA releases Flamingos for fundraiser

Twenty-four flamingos flocked to our yard yesterday!  By evening our grass was eaten up and creek sucked dry.  They've since departed for greener grazing!

When looking out our window in the early 'morn and all that was seen was pink, we realized our day was going to be just a little different.   Rubbing the sand from our eyes, we rushed outside, barefoot, to see what was the matter and who pulled this prank!   At first glance we were shocked!  The LANGUAGE!   Then came the LAUGHTER, the hilarity, and screams of joy!  How could we be so recognized?  So honored?  and have so much fun?  Who to thank?

An envelope taped on the back of the sign explained everything.  DECA volunteers from Redmond High School are running their "Flock-A-Friend" Fundraiser!  As the "hat passed to us" so did the joke!  Chuckling, we wrote a check to RHS hoping DECA would migrate their well-trained birds to another house; and paid extra to keep them away!  By evening the flamingos had grazed through our lawn and drank our stream dry!  So away they flew!  to an unsuspecting neighbor's lush green landscape.  Insurance anyone?  Contact DECA c/o  Morgan.Burke@yahoo.com

By Bob / Pam Yoder
Photo by Yoder
Read More about DECA (click blue link)

Kimball Administration explains Bell, Rush, and ICS school construction plans to Board

Sup. Kimball

In the April 18 Regular School Board meeting the Kimball Administration presented modernization plans for Bell, Rush, and ICS schools (1) to the School Board.  Construction for all three schools is planned for 2011, pending public review.

Dr. Kimball told the School Board, "Construction in the 1970's was shoddy, built quickly and very cheaply."  He said  "These are the schools we are currently tearing down."  Kimball continued, "I think there may be possibly a point in time in Phase 3 and during Phase 4... when 'remodeling' (3) is done more often than tearing out and replacing."   Facilities Director Forest Miller presented the following 'modernization' (tear out and replace) plans for Bell, Rush, and ICS: 

To "Read More" click the blue link >>

YES Invest in Youth Breakfast Huge Success

Husky Coach Lorenzo Romar with Shari

YES Invest in Youth Breakfast Huge Success

Husky Basketball Coach Lorenzo Romar helps attract 800 guests and raise $455K

BELLEVUE, Wash. (April 27, 2011)—With finds still coming in, the 2011 Youth Eastside Services Invest in Youth Breakfast raised $455,000, more than ever before. Held April 26 at the Hyatt Regency in Bellevue, the event attracted approximately 800 guests who were captivated by encouraging stories of triumph.

The breakfast featured two YES clients sharing their very personal stories resulting in a standing ovation from the audience. UW Men’s Head Basketball Coach, Lorenzo Romar also spoke of his experiences growing up and his philosophy about coaching.  (Click the "Read More" blue link)

Tent City-4 at St. Jude's Parish

 Tent City
166th Avenue NE on Education Hill
April 26, 2011

Redmond Neighborhood Blog: TRAFFIC

Redmond Neighborhood Blog: TRAFFIC:

Transportation costs continue to climb with gas prices in thin air. Bridge cameras take their toll. Red Light cameras pick our pockets!  What's next?

Take control of 'the road'!   Visit the TRAFFIC  on the top of this blog for news, tips, tools, and live intersection cameras (including red light)  The newest updates:

LOWEST AREA GAS STATION PRICES     GAS PRICE TRENDS

Any road warrior stories to tell?  Write me at redmondblog@gmail.com or comment below     B.Y.

Internet photo

Kimball Administration explains construction plans for STEM and High School additions to Board

Eastlake High School Addition Project Site -  Aerial

UPDATED, 5/25/2011:  At the April 18, 5PM Board meeting, LWSD Facilities Director, Forest Miller made a Board presentation on six schools planned for construction in 2011.  Community presentations for the same six schools took place weeks earlier in the form of  self-guided "neighborhood input sessions", land use Hearings, and posted notices.  According to Kimball, the district held a PTSA meeting for ICS totalling "100 members".

This piece reports on the Eastlake and Redmond HS additions and the STEM school.  (Bell, Rush and ICS/Community will follow.)  Rose Hill Junior High construction is planned for 2012 and wasn't addressed to the Board, although a neighborhood meeting, a community meeting and environmental review have been held.

Sup. Kimball praised  Director Forest Miller's department saying "I couldn't be more proud of the work that's being done with this modernization area of the Facilities team."

Forest told the Board, "this is the most number of major construction projects being handled at any one time in the history of the District."  He referred to "12 major school construction projects so far, plus 3 projects from the 2011 Capital Projects Levy."

Forest Miller, District Director of Support Services handles transportation and facilities for the district.  Mr. Miller indicated by email that  his modernization responsibilities "cover the real estate, working with the developer and project manager (VEERY), reviewing the design plans, environmental issues, maintenance, liaison to regulatory agencies, and budgeting."  The District hires HEERY International as developer and project manager for all school modernizations.  HEERY replaces and builds the schools from start to finish. Cities run the permit review process. Below, is a summary of the  Board presentation:

EASTLAKE H.S. ADDITION:   The addition is located on the stand of trees in front of the school.  A two story structure will house 14 classrooms with potential for seven portables in the northern school area.  Extra office space is built for counselors and administrators.  The project calls for auxiliary gym by the football field.   Pres. Pendergrass commented it's for gym class space.  A mezzanine is added to the cafeteria for extra seating.  The City of Sammamish requires a secondary access road so 233rd from the North so 233rd will be widened.  This requires removal of two tennis courts.  Six will remain.  Pending Public Review, work starts in 2011 with completion in 2012.  School Board-member Doug Eglington commented he personally saw the Notice sign: "duly posted" on the property. 

REDMOND H.S. ADDITION:   The two-story, 14 classroom addition is located in front of the Performing Arts Theatre. The plan has potential for up to 7 portables just east of the northern section of the football field.  The construction will include additional parking for the administration.  Space for the administrative office, counsellors, and career center will be built.  The wall in the Commons Area is removed, though the Cafeteria space remains the same.  An auxiliary gym in front of the weight room is planned; 33 new bike racks installed.  The original school architects are contracted for each high school addition.  Construction starts in 2011 pending Public Review.

Annotation:  Dr. Kimball sat before the Redmond Council last year asking for a city endorsement of the Capital Projects Levy.   Council Pres. Richard Cole was hesitant to endorse the Levy since RHS is only about 5 years old; and already an addition is "needed."  Where's the planning, he asked?  Dr. Kimball responded "he wasn't the Superintendent at the time" when RHS was re-built.  Council endorsed the Levy 6-1 (Carson).  This project is actively under review by the public.  Comments?   

Click the blue "Read More" link

Local Civil Air Cadets - too young to drive but can assemble and fly glider planes!

Four Overlake cadets and two senior members joined with a dozen other CAP members from western Washington in Chehalis on Sunday to assemble one of the CAP gliders and get in a few flights.

The Washington Wing has two Super Blanik gliders and two tow planes within its fleet of aircraft. The gliders are based at Chehalis for most of the year.

Every CAP cadet is eligible for 5 glider and 5 powered orientation flights funded by the US Air Force.

There were 13 cadet flights today with over 500 glider flights expected to be flown this year in the WA Wing. CAP glider operations are planned to continue into late October.

If you would like more information about becoming a member of the Civil Air Patrol and learning to fly, please contact the squadron commander.

Sincerely,

Michael Holliday, Capt, CAP
Commander PCR-WA-050
Overlake Composite Squadron
Civil Air Patrol

The Overlake CAP meets every Tuesday evening, 7PM at LWSD headquarters in RTC.  New recruits are welcome.  Capt. Mike Holliday lives in Kirkland and is actively involved in the PTSA.

LETTER: Stop enabling virtual school scam

"The Public is fleeced at both the state and local level"

Stop enabling virtual school scam

By Paul Hall
April 18, 2011

LETTER
Dear Bob:  "The state school superintendent (SPI) is asking for hundreds of millions of dollars for new construction in the Capital Budget. It may pass without much scrutiny because (as Larry Springer aptly states in his recent Kirkland Views video) the legislature has had only one topic on its mind, the Operating Budget. For the last several years, SPI has been using a major portion of its capital funds to enable what I call the "Virtual School" scam. It's been successfully plied for several years by affluent school districts to pilfer state matching money for otherwise ineligible new construction.

The scam is simple. A district starts a "modernization" project. It then requires the Architect to include the cost to provide temporary housing (a "Virtual School"), during the entire time of remodeling, as a part of the cost of modernization. This contrived major cost, when combined with major remodeling costs, runs the total estimated project cost above the state matching limit for a modernization project. SPI rejects the modernization project based on this bogus estimate, but approves a request for state matching funds for new construction in lieu of modernization. This costs the state (as well as the local school district) 50-60% more in construction costs than if the building were remodeled. A substantially sound public building with scores of remaining useful years becomes landfill. The district gets a new school and calls it "modernized". The state has 50-60% less money to spend on legitimately needed projects. The public is fleeced at both the state and local level. This practice is clearly neither fiscally responsible nor sustainable in any sense.

To "Read More" click the blue link >>

Volunteers and Dow Constantine restore Kokanee in Lake Sammamish

Dow Constantine releases
 salmon fry

King County, state, federal and local agencies, plus volunteers, work to restore kokanee salmon on Lake Samammish.

Video: Kokanee release

Juvenile kokanee salmon – delicate, wriggling slivers of silver – were carefully tipped from buckets into Laughing Jacobs Creek in Issaquah today. The release marked the beginning of their journey to adulthood in the wild and the end of the second season of emergency hatchery supplementation for a critically weak salmon stock that King County and its Lake Sammamish Kokanee Work Group partners hope to rebuild.

“Our effort to boost the struggling Sammamish kokanee population is an essential short-term step, while our long-term goal is to protect and restore the kokanee's habitat so hatchery supplementation is no longer needed,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine, who took part this afternoon in the Earth Week release of 100 juvenile kokanee salmon – the last of approximately 30,000 kokanee released this spring.

Read the entire article >>

Explore DigiPen digital art summer workshops this week

Hi Redmond Blog readers!

On April 23 from 10:00am to 3:30pm DigiPen wants to give you and your readers the opportunity to explore our 13 ProjectFUN summer workshop programs - aimed at reaching students in 5th through 12th grade.

These onsite and online workshops teach students how to create 3D animations, program video games, engineer robots and design the great games. All while learning problem solving skills and academic fundamentals like algebra, geometry, fine art, and physics.  Read More >>

Marchione Administration holds "networking meetings" for Education Hill and North Redmond residents.

Redmond Neighborhoods (9)

OPINION:  One of Mayor Marchione's goals this year is to improve government transparency in the Neighborhoods of Redmond, including Overlake.  John's Administration is implementing  "The Neighborhood Network" program to build on city government visibility, networking opportunities and awareness of our neighborhoods.

Education Hill and North Redmond Network Neighborhood meetings were held earlier this month.  Per 2010 US Census, the Education Hill neighborhood population is ~12,000 residents; the North Redmond neighborhood population is ~ 4,000 residents.  This census information and the following letter from Kim Dietz was generously provided by the Marchione Administration upon request.    B.Y.

from the desk of Kim Dietz...  

The April 7th Neighborhood Network meeting went quite well.  Approximately 30 neighbors from the Education Hill and North Redmond neighborhoods attended.  Councilmember Cole was also in attendance.   Read more of Kim's Letter >>

Retired NASA Astronaut Bonnie Dunbar Speaks at School Fundraiser Luncheon Today, April 20

The Foundation raised ~ $145,500 at this luncheon fundraiser.

Read the announcement by clicking the blue Read More link >>

A Look at Transparency and "Open Government" issues in Lake Washington School District

"What is the definition of government transparency?
When we talk about transparency in government, we mean that citizens must be able to 'see through' its workings, to know exactly what goes on when public officials transact public business. Government that is not transparent is more prone to corruption and undue influence because there is no public oversight of decision making."

--By Judy Nadler and Mirham Schulman
  Center for Applied Ethics
  Santa Clara University, CA. 3/06

###

"A popular Government, without popular information, or the means of acquiring it, is but a Prologue to a Farce or a Tragedy; or, perhaps both. Knowledge will forever govern ignorance: And a people who mean to be their own Governors, must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives."

-- James Madison, letter to W.T. Barry, August 4, 1822

Madison is often referred to as the “Father of the United States Constitution.” His priceless contributions to the founding of the nation include co-authoring along with John Jay and Alexander Hamilton the Federalist Papers which apart from the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution itself, provided the philosophical framework and intellectual justification for the Bill of Rights and government we know today.

It is therefore fitting that one of the state’s top government watchdog groups. Washington Coalition for Open Government, presents it’s highest honor each year in Madison’s name to an individual or organization that exemplifies a deep commitment to open government,

-- Bob Yoder
Resident, Parent, Volunteer at LWSD
redmondblog@gmail.com

Annual Spring Plant Sale - Lake Washington Technical College

LWTC  Environmental Horticulture Greenhouse

Annuals, Perrenials, Hanging Baskets, Edibles

REPUBLISHED:  Don Marshall, Environmental Horticulture Instructor at Lake Washington Technical College (LWTC) requested that I send you information regarding our 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 our website http://www.lwtchort.com/home32  which offers additional details and information regarding the sale and some basic information below…

Annual Spring Plant Sale
April 22-23 & April 29-30, 9:00am-3:00pm   (new stock on both weekends!)
Lake Washington Technical College
11605 132nd Ave NE
Kirkland, WA 98034

If you have any question or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact: Cindy Funes, Environmental Horticulture 425-739-8279, Cindy.Funes@lwtc.edu

Redmond Boys Lacrosse go 4-2 for the Season with Gig Harbor win.

Freshman Watkins nets 6 to lead Redmond past Gig Harbor in boys lax

Redmond freshman Liam Watkins scored a season-best 6 goals to lead Redmond to its fourth win of the season with a 14 – 11 boys lacrosse win over Gig Harbor, Friday at Peninsula High School in Gig Harbor.
Gig Harbor was firing on all cylinders, outscoring Redmond 4 – 2 in the first, before the Mustangs came back with 7 goals in the second to take a narrow 9 – 8 lead into the half. In the third, Redmond edged ahead with a 12 – 10 lead before cruising with 2 more goals in the final quarter.

Brian Cox added 3 goals and 3 assists and Nico Shewey was kept busy most of the evening, making 23 saves in goal for Redmond. For Gig Harbor, Cody Olson led the way with 4 goals and 3 assists and Lucas Bantanian had 8 saves in goal.

Redmond (4-2-0) next faces Mt. Si (1-7-0), Wednesday, April 20 in a 5 p.m. start at Redmond’s Marymoor Park. Gig Harbor (4-4-0) next faces North Kitsap (2-3-0), Thursday, April 21 in a 7 p.m. start at Peninsula High School in Gig Harbor.

SCORING HIGHLIGHTS: Redmond 14, Gig Harbor 11 (Liam Watkins, R, 6 goals, 1 assist; Brian Cox, R, 3 goals, 3 assists, 8 ground balls; Nico Shewey, R, 23 saves; Cody Olson, GH, 4 goals, 3 assists, 3 ground balls; Ricky Chenoweth, GH, 2 goals, 7 ground balls; Lucas Bantanian, GH, 8 saves)

- US Lacrosse
Photo from file

Lake Washington PTSA announces Special Needs events

from the desk of Julie Shalaby
Chair, LWPTSA - Special Needs

1. FEAT of Washington's Experienced Learning Project
2. Eastside CHADD: Tuesday, April 19th: "Making the Educational System Work for Your Child"
3. Got Food Allergies or Dietary Restrictions?
4. DENTAL HEALTH FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
5. FEAT Speaker Series: April 23rd, 2011, 9am-12:00pm
6. Free Behavior Workshop from the Arc of Snohomish County
7. Caring for Loved Ones Under Unique Circumstances
8. Music Therapy—Individual Sessions
9. A.P.P.L.E. Consulting Summer Programs 

Read Details of Each Program >>
READ MORE >>

Grand Opening for Agave Cocina & Cantina - April 18

Bartender Angel, a 9-year employee, looks outside from the Cantina
through  folding doors to a heated veranda in the back.

Agave Cocina & Cantina in Bear Creek Shopping Center will celebrate it's Grand Opening next Monday, 4/18.  By a stroke of luck, Pam and I enjoyed a preview and  lunch in the restaurant and bar today - along with eight other parties (at last count)!  Yum!  the food is so good and staff so friendly! 

Last evening, co-owner Julian Ramos celebrated at the bar with his partners and  120 acquaintances from a customer email list.  Today was pre-opening day!  Julian took time out of his very busy day to give us a tour.

The floor plan is the same as the old Las Margaritas of Redmond and we found this comforting.  But everything else is new and pristine -- from the expensive new heating and ventilation systems to the fabulous Catina!   Julian was especially excited about the folding doors in the Catina that open up into a large heated patio.  Julian laughed,  "It can be warm enough to roast a chicken"!  Outdoor eating is a rarity in Redmond so this veranda will be a big plus for the town.  >>
Click the blue "Read More" to continue

Celebrate Earth Day in Redmond, WA.

Perrigo Heights Preliminary Plat Trail  PHOTO/YODER

Arbor Day

Redmond, WA – Bring your neighbors and celebrate the importance of Redmond’s trees and forest ecosystems by joining the City of Redmond Parks and Recreation Department at Arbor Day 2011, Saturday, April 30 at the Watershed Preserve, 21760 NE Novelty Hill Road from 9 am to 12 noon.

This is the first year the City has joined with the Green Redmond Partnership to celebrate Arbor Day. No experience is necessary and gloves, tools and other materials will be available. It is important to dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.  All ages are welcome.  For information or to participate in this event, please contact Chris Tolonen at 425-556-2369 or ctolonen@redmond.gov .

Take Action - April 22 - Earth Day

Sustainable Redmond Announces Spring Film Series

Redmond, WA – Sustainable Redmond (http://www.sustainableredmond.org/) is sponsoring two documentaries this spring on the Eastside. On April 17th they will show “Good Food – Sustainable Food and Farming in the Northwest” in Kirkland; and on May 10th they will present “Fixing the Future” in Redmond. This is a great chance for those on the Eastside to see some wonderful sustainability-related documentaries without having to drive to Seattle, and with free admission!   Read More >>

Senate passes Tom's proposal to move the teaching profession toward performance-based model

Senator Rodney Tom
48th District
Redmond/Kirkland/Bellevue

Senate passes Tom's proposal to move the teaching profession toward performance-based model.  Tom urges House to approve proposal by April 24 - the end date for the Legislature.

OLYMPIA —Yesterday the Senate passed a proposal offered by Sen. Rodney Tom, D-Medina, to move the teaching profession toward a performance-based model that rewards effectiveness in the classroom.

Under the measure, rather than using seniority as the sole measure in determining teacher layoffs during tough budget times, school districts would instead make workforce reductions based on teachers' performance in the classroom.  Read the entire story >>

Read More >>

Microsoft's Bing took a 30% share of U.S. Web search market in March

Microsoft's Bing took a 30% share of U.S. Web search market in March Technology Los Angeles Times:

"Bing, last month, elbowed its way to a 30% share of the U.S. Web search market, stealing a bit of ground from Google. In March, Bing accounted for 30.01% of the search market, while Google -- still far and away the leader -- took up 64.42% of the market, according to the research firm Experian Hitwise.

Microsoft topping the 30% threshold comes on the heels of a healthy February of 28.48% of the search market. In February, Google had a 66.69% slice of Web search. Bing may have a slight advantage in that it powers Yahoo's search results.

Bing.com searches jumped from 13.49% to 14.32% of the search market in March, while searches at Yahoo.com rose from 14.99% to 15.69%. The traffic increases for Bing, which apparently cost Google a bit, come after Google accused Bing of copying its search results in February. But it would also seem that there is still much room to grow in the search market too. In December, Google said its search traffic from mobile devices rose by 130%."

Los Angeles Times, April 12, 2011
Technology

Lane Closure on Redmond Way For Three Weeks

Redmond, WA – On Monday, April 18, the eastbound curb lane on Redmond Way between Bear Creek Parkway and 160th Avenue NE (from the KFC driveway to the US Health Works driveway) will close for an estimated three weeks. This closure is necessary to facilitate the lowering of an existing Frontier Communications fiber duct bank in preparation for the City of Redmond’s summer construction of a major storm water trunk line.

The work, performed by North Sky Communications, will take place from 7 am to 7 pm weekdays and Saturdays. The lane will remain closed both day and night.

During the construction period, only one lane will be available on Redmond Way for eastbound motorists. Message boards are in place on Redmond Way in advance of the work zone to alert drivers of the upcoming work. Once the work begins, the boards will advise eastbound drivers to use Bear Creek Parkway as an alternate route.

Drivers are advised to exercise caution and patience through the work zone and take alternative routes when possible.

For more information, contact the City’s construction office at 425-556-2723.

Hazardous Fuel Pipeline near Rose Hill Junior High is Patrolled Every Three Weeks

underground pipeline (Internet)

UPDATED:  Safety of  the Olympic fuel pipeline running  the eastern boundary of Rose Hill Junior High came up during two Rose Hill JH "modernization" meetings this month.  The meetings were self-guided "poster sessions" and unadvertised on the district website.  Grayling Gentry, a resident living on the southern boundary of the school posted several Letters on this blog detailing her concerns with the pipeline. In 2012, Rose Hill Junior is scheduled for "modernization" (tear-down and rebuild); the pipeline is several hundred feet from the school.  Rumors circulated around who had jurisdiction for monitoring pipeline safety.

On April 6, State Rep. Deborah Eddy (whose children attended Rose Hill JH) advised  by email, "the UTC (Utilities Transportation Commission) oversees the safety program ...the UTC is funded by industry so is not dependent on State funding."

Kathryn Reith, District Communications Director attended both Rose Hill  meetings.  She said:  "Redmond has one of the toughest pipeline safety ordinances in the state," referencing to a City of Redmond code (Ord. 2137), signed by Mayor Ives in 2002.  Reith made no reference to the Washington State UTC agency responsible for monitoring pipeline safety. 
Steve Fischer, Principal Planner for the City of Redmond, manages final permit review for the project and will eventually hold a Public Hearing where pipeline safety, wildlife, tree preservation, floor plans and other project issues can be addressed.  Steve attended both school meetings.  He said he'd meet with  Olympic Pipeline this week to review site safety measures.  Mr. Fischer said the Olympic Pipeline isn't required to follow the city's recommendations. 

So, which agency has the over-arching jurisdiction?   What are the safety requirements?

On April 8, I emailed Joe Subsits, Executive Director of the State UTC for an explanation.   Mr. Subsits replied, saying:   (read more >>)

Lake Sammamish outlasts Ballard in girls lacrosse

Lake Sammamish outlasts Ballard in girls lacrosse

REDMOND – Marlena Masterleo scored with 3:33 remaining in the second half to break a 12-12 tie with Ballard, giving Lake Sammamish a 15 – 12 girls high school lacrosse win, Friday at Marymoor Park in Redmond. The win evened Lake Sammamish’s record to 2-2-0 on the season.   They play at Marymoor again,  April 11 vs. No. Kitsap.    Read More >>

Lake Sammamish Girls plays Overlake 4/20, 5:45 at Overlake.

Lake Washington drops Puyallup for 3rd lacrosse win

Lake Washington takes shot at goal

Lake Washington drops Puyallup for 3rd lacrosse win
April 6

SUMNER – Cody and Jake Bernstein combined for 7 goals to lead Lake Washington to its third win of the season with a 14 – 5 high school lacrosse defeat of Puyallup, Wednesday at Sumner High School.

Lake Washington and Puyallup left the first knotted at 3 goals apiece before the Kangs broke loose with 4 second quarter goals to take a 7 – 3 advantage into the intermission. In the third the Kangs added another 4 goals and sealed the win with 3 fourth quarter goals.  Read More >>

Recycle your computers, printers, TV's, VCR's, phones for FREE in Redmond!

City signage behind Redmond Inn
guides traffic to MITRONICS

REPUBLISHED, 4/5.  It's amazing how old, unused electronic stuff can accumulate. It  takes up space and needs to go!  But where?   I found three recycling services in greater Redmond that will recycle electronics for free, and one from your curb!

Waste Management takes TV's up to 21 inches, monitors, and computers right from the curb!  You must call them for a free curbside pick-up appointment.  800-592-9995.  They also pick up microwaves, PDA's, cell phones, and VCR/DVD's at the curb!

Mitronics of Redmond recycles all sizes of TV's, laptops, desktops,and monitors for free.  No curbside pick-up.  They erase your disc drive for free, too!   They take keyboards and mice with a computer and charge $5.00 for small printers and $1.00 for phones.  Drop off at:  17455 NE 67th Court, in the business park adjacent east Marymoor Park.  Look for the city way-finding signs.  Phone:  425-883-8881.

Read More >>

OPINION: Certified ISO auditor is flabbergasted by LW School District remodernization practices

"Certified ISO auditor is flabbergasted by remodernization practices of LW School District," By Grayling Gentry

OPINION:  For the purpose of public safety, the FDA holds medical device manufacturers accountable for each tiniest component of every device, conducts surprise on-site audits, and requires thorough double-checking of every conceivable aspect of the equipment through mandatory validation processes conducted by outside auditors such as UL.

But who is checking our school districts' legal output?  I am. And that's just not right.

As a certified ISO auditor and regulatory affairs coordinator, I am flabbergasted the more I learn about LWSD's sloppy regulatory submissions, lack of legal compliance, and its casual accounting practices. Older schools such as Rose Hill have been allowed to deteriorate, and have been left to operate with original 1960s HVAC systems, filthy duct work and leaky roofs despite district access to over $2.5 in maintenance funds.

New schools cost taxpayers up to four times more than the national average. Board members entrust building site evaluation to contractors, approve massive projects after simply reading high-level summaries, and write checks for millions to fulfill change orders without conducting significant, in-depth investigations of chronic overrun causes and conditions. But hey, when you're in the business of cranking out new $50 to $150 million schools every 12-15 months and are on an avowed mission to tear down every school in the district every 40 years, who has time to sweat the details?

One district oversight, such as "neglecting to mention" two enormous, highly pressurized and potentially deadly aviation fuel and gasoline pipelines in an environmental assessment, can do enormous damage -- not only to the health, safety and happiness of thousands of people, but to the district's image of credibility and trustworthiness. Add to this error all of the other "oversights" in the STEM SEPA/DNS debacle and you have serious red flags that should have state auditors' eyebrows raised. But it doesn't. Because nobody in government dares mess with education: the most sacred of all cash cows.  Read More >>

Microsoft’s weighting on Nasdaq-100 to rise, Apple to slip

Microsoft’s weighting on Nasdaq-100 to rise, Apple to slip

Nasdaq-100 weighting of four local stocks have changed when Apple weighting was reduced by 8.16%, from 20.49% to 12.33%. 

Microsoft’s representation on Nasdaq-100 will more than double, rising to 8.3 percent from 3.4 percent.

The four local stocks:

• Microsoft's new weighting is increased 4.91% from 3.41% to 8.32%
• Google's new weighting increased 1.59%
• Starbucks new weighting decreased by 0.79%
• Costco's new weighting increased by 0.47%

The new listing will better reflect the market value of Microsoft and other companies, according to Nasdaq.

For a complete story By Greg Lamm of Todd Bishop's TechFlash  go here:
 
Bob Yoder
Internet photo

Astronaut Dr. Bonnie Dunbar to Keynote LW Schools Foundation luncheon

Dr. Bonnie Dunbar
Astronaut

Redmond, WA. The Lake Washington Schools Foundation is pleased to announce that Dr. Bonnie J. Dunbar will be the keynote speaker at the Foundation’s annual A Legacy for Learning Luncheon, which will take place on April 20 at Juanita High School, 10601 NE 132nd St., Kirkland. Doors open at 11 a.m., and the program starts at 11:30 a.m. and ends promptly at 12:30. Lunch is complimentary; there is a suggested minimum donation of $150. To register, or for more information, go to www.lwsf.org or call 425-936-1414.

Keynote speaker Dr. Dunbar recently retired as the President and CEO of the Museum of Flight. She is a veteran astronaut with five space missions and is currently Executive Director of Wings over Washington (an affiliate organization of the Museum of Flight dedicated to future development of the museum). A local University of Washington College of Engineering graduate, Dr. Dunbar will speak about her passion for education, especially science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).  Read More >>

LWSD Administration is well aware of the petroleum pipeline running on proposed Rose Hill JH border, By Kathryn Reith, LWSD

Meeting information:   A second  STEM School Hearing is scheduled for mid-April at Alcott El.   Please know the STEM Hearing will be taped and recorded as required by law and is available upon request.   BY

LWSD Administration is well aware of the petroleum pipeline running on proposed Rose Hill JH border, By Kathryn Reith, Communications Director, LWSD

LETTER:  Lake Washington School District and the City of Redmond are well aware of the ordinance around the petroleum pipeline referenced by Ms. Gentry and are working together to ensure student and staff safety in the new school building. Let me provide some additional background as well as the actions being taken.

In 1964, the petroleum pipeline operated by the Olympic Pipeline Company was installed near the east property line of the school property. The Rose Hill Junior High School building was constructed in 1969 near the west property line. The school has operated continuously since construction without any interference between operation of the pipeline and operation of the school.

In 2002, the City of Redmond enacted ordinance number 2136 related to the pipeline and land use permitting. The City of Redmond has indicated that the modernization of Rose Hill, as an existing facility near the pipeline, will be subject to that section of the code requiring that the new building “shall at a minimum be designed to avoid increasing the level of risk in the event of a pipeline failure, and where feasible, reduce the risk.”

LETTER: STEM School plans raise questions, By Grayling Gentry

LETTER:   Sadly, I am not surprised that LWSD would try to build outside the GMA boundaries, ignore traffic and carbon issues, pass off a hastily conceived plan for a science center with no labs, or sacrifice acres of forest to development of a "school" lacking auditorium, gym, cafeteria or library. The mantra is "less is more" where services and amenities in new schools are concerned -- but that chant changes when it comes to money.

Taxpayers in this district are paying up to four times the national average for throw-away schools that the district promises to tear down in just 40 years (please don't let them near my solid, properly maintained mid-70s house!). Planned obsolescence of schools serves only the special interests -- who greedily line the public funding troughs nationwide, sucking down billions of dollars that voters intended to go towards children's educational causes through approval of bonds and levies. We said help the children, not "Help yourselves"!

What is shocking, is that any credible logistics analyst would approve a critical educational sub-system that wastes thousands of collective student-hours annually. Survey upon survey show that high school kids face increasing pressure due to overly busy extra-curricular schedules and ever-heavier school workloads. The answer cannot be to force them to take up to four bus rides per day. Ridiculous.

Opinion By Grayling Gentry
LWSD parent and volunteer

Lake Washington School District Director Reith explains issues around the STEM School

Lake Washington School District Communications Director Kathryn Reith says on April 4th.... 

I appreciate Ms. Wilkins’ interest in and concern about the proposed STEM school building. Unfortunately, she made some conclusions based on the traffic study we provided to her that are not correct. First, the district has no plans to further develop the site. Second, the educational program for the STEM school has not yet been determined. The possible scenario she reports was provided to the traffic consultant since it would create the most traffic to the site: that’s what a traffic impact statement should consider. Again, no decision regarding the STEM school academic program has been made.

I invite any community member or parent who is interested in this proposed building to attend the hearing at Alcott Elementary School on Tuesday, April 5. While the hearing will begin at 6 p.m., district staff will be available beginning at 5:30 p.m. to answer questions and will have site plans on display.
 
By Kathryn Reith
Communications Director, LWSD
April 4

Response by Susan Wilkins
 - District parent, PTSA member, volunteer:

"Kathryn Reith says that the district has no additional plans to develop the site? Well, in 2001, the district had plans to put a junior high on the site and had every square foot of the property covered by buildings, fields and parking. The district’s 6-Year Capital Facilities Plan 2010-2015 on page 14 says that all new schools will be built with plans to add portables as needed. The idea that the district can use only 7 acres of the 22-acre site and set aside 15 acres for “permanent conservation” isn’t believable or even allowed by a public agency. The property is listed as being held for the district’s “long term needs.” There is no doubt that the site will be fully developed over time".

Read More >>

LETTER: BP/Arco Fuel Line Runs the Border of Proposed Rose Hill JH School

Underground pipeline

By Grayling Gentry, district parent

LETTER:  Here is a brief article that I hope you might consider publishing at redmondblog.org, preferably before the Tuesday [and Wednesday night] public input meeting at Rose Hill Junior High.  (4/5 and 4/6, 7:00 PM)

According to City of Redmond Ordinance 2136, signed into law in 2002 in the wake of the Bellingham pipeline tragedy, the Rose Hill Junior High acreage may not be a suitable site for any school, modernized or not. The school property is home to the Olympic (now BP/Arco) hazardous fuel pipeline, which runs north to south along its eastern boundary. This defines Rose Hill Junior High as a "high consequence use," which is another way to say that risk of injury and death to quite a few people would be imminent in the event of a pipeline breach.

Consisting of 16" and 20" diameter steel pipes of .281" thickness that lie 30" to 40" underground, the pipeline was built in 1965 -- just three years before the school. It is now 46 years old and has gone through the Nisqually earthquake and possibly other stress-producing events. How safe is it? PSE in 2010 agreed to replace its 1970s-era steel natural gas pipelines after a fatal explosion in a Bellevue residence resulted from gas leakage due to pipe corrosion. The Rose Hill Junior High pipeline, an extension of that fateful Bellingham line, carries diesel, aviation fuel (kerosene) and gasoline at pressures up to 1440 psi. Without physically examining the pipes, there is no way to know how they are holding up.

City of Redmond's stated purpose in enacting this ordinance is to "avoid exposing land uses with high on-site populations that are difficult to evacuate and land uses that serve emergency functions to risk of injury or damage in the event of a pipeline failure." Among other responsibilities, the ordinance charges the city with holding community safety meetings every two years, but none has been offered in the 22 years I have lived in my home, just a few hundred feet from the pipeline. By putting the new school closer to the pipeline and increasing its population from 438 to 900 (plus an additional 80 staff), City of Redmond is ignoring its own law and allowing LWSD to put the lives of countless children and staff at increased risk.  Read More >>

OPINION: LW School District: Important Information about the New Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM) School

IMPORTANT REMINDER:   If  you're watching the NCAA Basketball Finals but still want to attend, please tape the games send Sup. Chip Kimball an email with your comments, name and address ckimball@lwsd.org.
  

 
View Larger Map Get Directions View Bird's Eye
Map to Alcott Elementary School

OPINION:  Lake Washington School District: Important Information about the New Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM) School, By Susan Wilkins

STEM School Public Hearing: Tuesday, April 5th - 6 PM at Alcott Elementary – 4213 228th Avenue NE  (see map)

Parents have been asking about the new STEM high school that was approved by voters in the February 8 election earlier this year. Superintendent Chip Kimball has responded that a lot of the plans have not been decided and will be announced later. The public hearing for the STEM high school will be held on Tuesday, April 5. In order to apply for a building permit from King County, the school district was required to submit plans for the building and a traffic analysis to indicate how the school will be run and how disruptive it will be on the rural community. The most interesting information about the school came from the traffic report.

Most notable - the new school will not have a gymnasium or lunchroom because students will be double-shifted and will only attend for half of each day. The target attendance for the school is 675 students per session (although each session could have up to 825 students.) There will be a morning session from 7:00 – 10:30 AM followed by an afternoon session from 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM. A total of 1300 students are supposed to attend the school each day when it opens in 2012. Students in the morning session will return to their home high school for lunch, Language Arts, History, PE, foreign languages, Art, Music and other electives. The afternoon session will arrive at the STEM high school by 11:30 AM after spending the morning at their home high school. It’s not clear which school the students will receive their diplomas from. What is clear is that the STEM School will not be a full-day regular high school because it is not equipped with adequate facilities or classroom space for students to attend all day.  Read More >>

REPUBLISHED: Plan for a bumpy ride to the new US Post parcel pick-up site

Republished, 12/31/11

Need to pick up your mail on-hold from vacation?  An over-sized package?  Certified, returned-receipt letter?  Don't go to the existing post office for these parcel pick-ups; it's a wasted trip.  GO TO:  7241 185th Ave NE, Redmond, WA.  This address is to the US Post's large E. King County Delivery Distribution Center.  (See map).  PHONE:  425-885-0207.  I highly recommend you call first to locate your mail  i.e. carrier delivery and pick-up status. 

In case you didn't find the US Postal Service card in the mail, the Redmond carriers (and Parcel Pickup) have moved from the old post office to this distribution center building.  The center is is not very far east of Home Depot.   Pick-up hours are worse:  M-F, 9:00AM-4:00PM and Saturday, 9:00AM-3:00PM.   TIP:  to avoid the center's 10 speed bumps (!) leave via the southern-most entrance off of 180th Ave. NE. -- especially if you have a small car. 
 
You can still drop off your mail, get stamps and pick up your mail-box mail at the old post office.  But, this, too, will change when the Postal Service sells the post office on 85th and moves to the old liquor store location.   A worker said, "the government needs the money so is shutting down offices across the country and is also trying to lay off the older workers.  They just closed a huge center in Spokane."    

View Larger Map Get Directions View Bird's Eye

Republished, 12/31/2011

UPDATED: LW School District Tightens the Spigot to Citizen Participation

UPDATED:  4/19
ATTN:   Since this story was published, the Administration edited this link to the Board meeting schedule and included an asterisk* to flag public comment opportunities.  


Six Regular Board Meeting now start a 5 or 5:30PM this year instead of 7PM. (On 4/19 Pres. Pendergrass called these meeting time changes "emergencies", for various reasons.  


Four of the 5:00 & 5:30PM Regular Meetings are now planned between April and June (Neighborhood meetings and Hearings for the STEM School and Rose Hill JH projects occur during these months. )

The remaining Public comment periods in 2011 are scheduled in following meetings: April 18, May 2, June 6, June 20. and August 8.  SUBJECT TO CHANGE!  (Chip Kimball sets the agenda and Pres. Pendergrass approves it)

Parents have three oppotunities left to speak
 to the School Board, Mr. Kimball and Staff this school year.
They are "waiting" to hear frrom you.

 UPDATED, 4/6 - The District changes some of their meeting times again.   A quick note to parents and community -- opportunities for public comment and participation with Lake Washington School District Board members and Sup. Chip Kimball is tightening up.  So, if you'd like to give some input to the folks who run our schools now's the time. 

Only three school board meetings are left for public comment this school year after Spring Break:  April 4, 5:30pm [scratch], April 18 (5:00)   May 2 (7:00pm) [time changed again], and May 16 (5:30pm), June 6th (5pm), June 20 (7pm) [meeting added] all are on a Monday.  The 5:00 pm time isn't convenient for most working parents with children, but that's what the Administration and Board scheduled.  For some reason, the meetings were originally set for 7PM but then rescheduled for the dinner hour. 

There's lots of stuff going on right now in the District:

• Modernization of Rose Hill Junior and others
• STEM School curriculum decisions
• STEM School site location, busing and traffic Public Hearing
• Redmond High and Eastlake High additions/remodeling
• Class reconfiguration to 9-12  / 6-8
• [Budget Public Hearing, August 8.] 

Probably, the best place to comment on all of these issues is the Monday, May 2 at 7PM.  Board Meeting (timed for right after Spring Break).  It's held at the Lake Washington District HQ in Redmond Town Center.  The Board wants you to sign-in 15 minutes early if you plan to speak (up to 3 minutes).  If you're late, Jackie Pendergrass  may have a grace period.  (Often times, the Administration plans a pre-business meeting event.)

On April 5 and 6th at 7pm, the Administration will hold a public meeting at Rose Hill Junior High cafeteria to address "remodernization" of Rose Hill JH.   Notice of the meeting was given to the bordering homes but if you have questions the meeting is open to the public.

If you're interested in commenting on the STEM School land use project, location, and traffic -  a good meeting for input is the April 5 Hearing (6-8pm) at Alcott  El.  Details and Directions.  If you have any questions or need directions for any of the meetings contact Kathryn Reith at kreith@lwsd.org .

Email is often a convenient way to communicate to the Board.  The Administration is creating an email address for writing to all Board members at once.  Chip Kimball emailed today:  "We are going to be putting that in place."

Reported by Bob Yoder

The Regular Meeting for the Annual Budget Hearing is scheduled for August 8, 7PM 

Click this link for the schedules of ALL Board Meetings:  http://www.lwsd.org/About/School-Board/Board-Meetings/Pages/School-Board-Calendar.aspx.  Meetings are subject to change!  Email Kathryn Reith if you have any questions about meeting times:  kreith@lwsd.org

Leadership Eastside selects Karin Duval as new Managing Director

Karin Duval of Redmond

Leadership Eastside selects Karin Duval as new Managing Director

Bellevue WA - Leadership Eastside (LE) announces the selection of Redmond resident Karin Duval to be the first Managing Director of the Eastside's premier leadership development program. Announcing the selection, LE President James Whitfield said, "Karin's history as a class member of LE, her experience working with non-profits and community groups, her executive management experience, and the synchronicity of our working styles were exactly what I was looking for to build out our staff infrastructure. I am very excited to have Karin with us."

Duval says her new position with Leadership Eastside is a natural fit, "Leadership Eastside's vision of a diverse, vibrant, healthy and mutually supportive Eastside community, is expertly served by LE's Adaptive Leadership approach to leader development. The challenges we face in our communities demand leaders who are informed, equipped and connected. I am thrilled and honored to be a part of the organization that develops these leaders." 
Read More >>

PTSA News: Volunteer Awards, Foundation Funding, PTSA officer slate, parent workshop

Factors Influencing Teen Decision Making & Behaviors. On Wednesday, April 6th from 7-9 PM at the Juanita High School Theater (132nd St., Kirkland), presenters Bill Corson & Laura Doerflinger will help parents understand the complex mix of factors that can result in questionable decision making by our teens and give parents reasonable strategies for guiding & monitoring their student. Recommended for parents of Students 7th grade & up. This FREE program is sponsored by the Lake Washington PTSA Council. No registration required. Questions? Contact Joanne Hall, Chair, Parent Education.

PTSA OFFICER SLATE. The 2011-12 RHS PTSA slate of officers is below.

Co-President: Shelley Flores
1st VP of Programs: Peg Hunt
2nd VP of Services: Karen Figurelle
Treasurer: Susan Seabrooks
Secretary: Marie Kent

Repectfully submitted by the 2011 RHS PTSA Nominating Committee:
Jerry Smith, Brenda Hunt, Julie Firth, Kim Axelrod

RHS PTSA AWARDS. The RHS PTSA is seeking recommendations in identifying exceptional advocates and volunteers within our school community. Below you will find several award categories. Awards are presented to honorees at RHS. Recommendations can be sent to the RHS office addressed to "PTSA Awards" or you can email recommendations to Robin Adler. You may nominate more than one person for each award. Past award recipients are posted on the RHS PTSA website. Deadline for submissions is April 22.

Read More >>

How to use "timebanking" to barter with your neighbors for goods & services

Last month, Cindy Jayne, Eastside Timebank Project Administrator,   introduced "timebanking" to the City of Redmond during an "Items from the Audiance" presentation to city council.  (Everyone is invited to speak to council at the beginning of their regular meetings.) 

From King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert's newsletter:

Timebanking is a “better than bartering” system helps stretch your dollars in a tough economy. When you spend an hour doing something for another member, such as yard work or transportation or haircutting, you earn a "Time Dollar" that you can then use to receive an hour of service from another member. It doesn’t have to be the same member, and everyone’s time is valued equally.

Timebanking builds community.  It creates a network that lets you get to know your neighbors and builds an old-fashioned extended family of people who take care of each other.

The Eastside Timebank pilot project in Kirkland is expanding to residents in Redmond and Bellevue, who are invited to an informational meeting about how to get involved:

Thursday, March 31, at 7-8 p.m.
North Bellevue Community Center
4063 - 148th Ave NE, Bellevue
Email:  cindy@eastsidetimebank.org

More information is available at http://www.eastsidetimebank.org/ .
Watch Video >>

Evergreen receives $100,000 grant to expand palliative care; what is palliative care?

Kirkland, WA – Evergreen Healthcare Foundation has received a $100,000 grant from the Regence Foundation in support of Evergreen Hospital Medical Center’s innovative program to extend palliative care into nursing homes and residential settings. Palliative care is a medical specialty that helps seriously ill patients manage disease symptoms.

“We believe people should have access to palliative care in whatever setting they find most appropriate for them, not just in hospitals,” said Bob Malte, CEO of Evergreen. “The Regence Foundation Grant will make palliative care more readily available in our communities.”    Source:   Evergreen Press Release, 3/23

###

What is Palliative Care?
Palliative care (pronounced pal-lee-uh-tiv) is the medical specialty focused on improving the quality of life of people facing serious illness. Emphasis is placed on pain and symptom management, communication and coordinated care. Palliative care is appropriate from the time of diagnosis and can be provided along with curative treatment.
READ MORE.  WATCH VIDEO >>

My experience removing "second growth" trees from our Redmond yard

Pam on a tree stump in our front yard

UPDATED: 04/2022  As much as I love trees, it was time to remove this double-trunk Doug fir from our front yard.  The tree diameters for each "fork" at breast height was 27 inches.  This one was a 70-year old, second  growth, beauty and it wasn't an easy decision.

When we moved into our "East Firs" Burnstead home 25 years ago, the fir was about half the size.   But, for about the last 7-10 summers the tree sucked up every drop of water around it, killing off our shrubs and grass.   Acidic pine cones, needles and branches dropped like rain on the roof.  Street appeal?  Suffocating.  Only 18 feet from our house, the exposed tree was a potential hazard.  So after much thought I filed for a city tree removal permit and hired Rudy Schulze of "Top Notch Tree Service" (360-420-9970) to do the work.

Towering  double-trunk fir on the left was removed
after getting a permit from the city.

We thought about removing only the large trunk and leaving the smaller one.  But, Rudy and one other certified arborist said no; that taking one trunk out would be like pruning more than 50% of the tree - not a healthy choice.  So, by the arborist's definition I removed two large significant trees joined at the hip. 

Some tips:  Watch out for the "Evergreen" arborist companies.  A few of them aren't arborists and just want your money. I was quoted $2,000 just for this tree.  I paid Top Notch $950 and a tip.  They dropped the limbs next to my vine maple with precision.   The next day, Rudy's partners hauled away all the wood for free and offered affordable stump grinding services.  Not only pros, but personable!   Visit the the International Society of Arboriculture website to find an ISA certified arborist.

The city requires a permit for removing "significant trees" and Landmark Trees. There's no fee.  For me, when hugging a large tree I know it's a Landmark when I can't touch my fingers.  You're allowed to remove up to two healthy "significant" trees (six inch diameter more) or one Landmark every 365 days with a permit.  

I found the permit here by searching Google. Read the fine lines.  Every tree you remove a tree you must replace it with a smaller tree.  If this is a hardship and you love trees, the City is updating their tree regulations and you may be able to donate to a Tree Fund.

Photos and Story by Bob Yoder, March 23, 2011