Redmond Neighborhood Blog

'Sustainable Redmond' Files Petition with Superior Court on Group Health Clear-cut Decision

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:29:00 +0000

Group Health 28-acre site to be clear-cut

January 25, 2012

Sustainable Redmond Files Land Use Petition

Redmond, WA – On January 24, Citizens and Neighbors for a Sustainable Redmond filed a land use petition in King County Superior Court, seeking review of the City of Redmond’s decision to approve Group Health’s request to clear cut a 28-acre urban forest within the Overlake neighborhood so as to facilitate the development of a master planned mixed use development. This includes 65 landmark trees, estimated to be 150 to 250 years old, and 985 significant trees, up to 150 years old. Sustainable Redmond was joined in the appeal by Friends at Overlake Village, Villa Marina Condominium Association, and Rosemarie Ives, former mayor of Redmond, 1992-2007. In support of the appeal are the Eastside Audubon Society, Sherwood Forest Community Club (a nearby Bellevue neighborhood), and Techies for Trees (workers in the Overlake neighborhood).

Members from Sustainable Redmond, along with many local citizens and several groups, had urged the Council to reconsider the Group Health Overlake Village development agreement at public hearings in November and December. On December 13, the City Council approved, 6 to 1, the Group Health Overlake Village Master Plan and Development Agreement, with councilmember Allen dissenting.

While Sustainable Redmond supports transit-oriented development, Read More >>
it finds this decision to be inconsistent with the City’s legacy of protecting trees, as well as with Redmond’s long-adopted tree preservation ordinance, Comprehensive Plan, and the Overlake Neighborhood Plan. The tree preservation ordinance, Redmond Zoning Code (RZC 21.72), stipulates that all landmark trees (those with trunk diameters exceeding 30 inches), and 35 percent of significant trees (with diameters over six inches) be retained in developments unless exceptional conditions exist. A certified arborist performed a site evaluation in November 2011 and concluded that groups of trees can be saved without undue risk to potential future structures. This contradicted the Group Health developer’s assessment that none of the trees can be retained.

In addition, Sustainable Redmond non-profit believes that the City’s compliance with the State Environmental Policy Act for the proposed master plan was deficient, as it did not analyze the impacts of clearing all trees and other vegetation from the site.

At the January 3 City Council meeting, Sustainable Redmond asked for reconsideration of the decision, but the council took no action. After investigating its remaining options, Sustainable Redmond decided to proceed with an appeal to the Superior Court of King County.

About Sustainable Redmond Citizens and Neighbors for Sustainable Redmond is a grassroots organization focused on local sustainability. The group’s mission is to be a catalyst for moving Redmond’s citizens, businesses, and local government towards sustainability, through education, advocacy, and community events. See sustainableredmond.org for more details

Cindy Jayne
Email: cindy@sustainableredmond.org
Website: http://www.sustainableredmond.org/

UPDATED OPINION: Citizen protests a City environmental action for AWR industrial company, hazardous to water supply

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:57:00 +0000

AWR Storm water pond connects to Evans Creek. (2006)

The following public comment was submitted by me and others to the City to protest approval of an environmental land use action on Redmond's polluting AWR industry

Public comments for or against this action (SEPA determination) are due to the city by 2/6/2012. Send your Comment to city planner Kelsey Johnson kjohnson@redmond.gov

Dear City of Redmond,

I disagree with your determination that "All Wood Recycling" (AWR) proposal (L110009) is non-significant to our environment as referenced to the State Environmental Policy Act. And, I ask you not approve this environmental action favoring AWR

Evans Creek banks enclosed
by impervious concrete
paving. (click to enlarge)

This industrial proposal is environmentally significant owing to the location of AWR over our city aquifer. City staff publicly warned Council late last year that contaminates are leaking into the Redmond aquifer and threatening our valuable drinking water resource. AWR "recycles" hazardous waste-concrete, chemically treated wood products and other toxic materials, including sewage which remains un-piped and unconnected to the City. Heavy machinery and trucks drip hydrolic fluids into the soils. In some places the water aquifer is less than 6 feet from the surface so it's a short journey for their waste and toxins to enter our water supply.

Most of the ground surfaces in AWR are impervious owing to compacting of soils by vehicular use, clogged or removed stormwater pond systems, and paved roadway and work areas. Thus, most AWR stormwater is untreated, toxic and washes into Evans Creek, stressed creek banks (photo), underground streams and adjacent commercial sites. AWR proposes one vault and one stormwater pond to treat the entire industrial site. At least two vaults are needed - one on both sides of the creek.

Evans Creek runs through AWR property, shown here

Evans Creek is a "Class One" stream of highest value and runs through the site. It's regulated by the Department of Ecology and the City as a "Shoreline of the State." In 2008, the Mayor proclaimed riparian corridors like Evans Creek locally important.

Stormwater run-off carries untreated pollutants (photo) from AWR into the creek, harming Federally protected Chinook salmon and destroying their habitat. Sub-surface, underground streams connecting to Evans and Bear Creek were recognized by the Planning Commission during their Critical Areas Ordinance Update several years ago. Underground streams connecting to contaminated Evans Creek storm flows could spread toxins further into our aquifer before they can be treated by downstream facilities.

Toxic run-off can't percolate
through impervious surfaces
and runs off untreated. Heavy
equipment drips hydrolic fluids.

The City will incur certain liabilities should significant trending to aquifer contamination be traced to this AWR site and it's vicinity. Approving this "Determination of Non Significance" (DNS) is setting a precedent for further neglect in the SE Redmond industrial complex, besides AWR. By approving this DNS, the C.O.R. is placing itself at risk to lawsuit and most significantly, potential loss of a highly valuable and important municipal natural resource - potable water.
Read More>>

I request the City of Redmond (lead agency) not approve this environmental Determination of Non-Significance for AWR. I understand the City will not make a decision on the AWR proposals until sometime after February 6, 2012 and the city planner is taking public comments up until this time. Read More >>

Respectfully submitted to the City of Redmond,

Redmond, WA. 98052

Two other permits must be approved: Administrative Modification-L110016 & Shoreline Permit-L110008 and SEPA-L110009:

"Following the SEPA appeal period, the City can issue the decision on the Shoreline Substantial Development Permit and Administration Modification Land Use Entitlement. The applicant can then move forward with the Construction Drawing Review process - K. Johnson, city planner

Those interested in commenting, please call City Development Services Center (425-556-2409) or email City planner Kelsey Johnson at kjohnson@redmond.gov. A few sentences of how you feel can be the difference.

Photos are public record - to view all 17 city photos go to this album

Opinion and photo By Bob Yoder,
Updated: 1/27/2012

Lake Washington's Dental Hygienists’ Society offering free preventative dental treatments

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:57:00 +0000

Lake Washington Institute of Tecnology's Dental Clinic in Kirkland

Free Kids Dental Sealant Day at Lake Washington Institute of Technology

Kirkland, Wash.: In honor of National Children’s Dental Health Month, Lake Washington’s Dental Hygienists’ Society is offering a free preventive dental program for children ages 6 to 13, Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

State-registered dental hygienists and Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWIT) dental hygiene students will place dental sealants. Exams (provided by licensed dentists), bitewing x-rays, and fluoride varnish (a value of more than $300) will also be provided to children who would otherwise not receive this cavity-prevention treatment due to a lack of insurance.

Children whose teeth cannot be sealed due to decay may have their cavities filled at a later date at the LWIT Dental Clinic at no charge.

Sealants are non-toxic white coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to protect teeth from cavities. The painless process can protect children’s teeth for 6-8 years, and is typically done in less than an hour.

Space is limited. To reserve a place in LWIT’s Dental Sealant Day, please call the LWIT dental clinic at (425) 739-8130. Read More >>

“We’re thrilled to have this opportunity to provide dental care to children in need,” said Danette Lindeman, RDH, BS and Sealant Day Chair at LWIT. “Everyone involved in this event is volunteering their time – the dental professionals, students and even LWIT staff – so we can help up to 150 kids get this valuable service.”

LWIT’s Dental Clinic offers low-cost dental treatments to the general public. To see a list of procedures and costs, please visit the website at www.lwtech.edu/dentalclinic.

Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWIT) is a broad-based polytechnic college offering instruction in 36 programs toward a spectrum of more than 100 bachelor and associate level degrees and certificates designed to give students the latest cutting edge skills relevant to today’s workplace. Founded in 1949, LWIT offers hands-on, real-world training in manufacturing, transportation, energy, business, allied health, computer and information systems, food and hospitality, and health and fitness.

UPDATED: Two "meet & greet" meetings with superintendent candidate Traci Pierce are rescheduled

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:53:00 +0000

"Meet and Greets" with candidate Dr. Pierce are rescheduled to January 25 and February 7. Feedback taken til February 22.

The meeting scheduled for Dr. Traci Pierce, preferred superintendent candidate, at the LWSD Resource Center has been rescheduled for THIS Wednesday, January 25, from 3 to 5 p.m.

The meeting scheduled for Dr. Traci Pierce, preferred superintendent candidate, hosted by the City of Sammamish, has been rescheduled for Tuesday, February 7, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

The School Board of Directors will listen to your feedback and recommendations until February 22.

The Board is likely to take action to hire a Superintendent at one the following Board meetings (at the District Resource Center):

Jan 30, Board meeting, 5:30PM (a vote is unlikely)

Feb. 27, 7PM (public comments accepted)

March 26 7PM (public comments accepted)

By Bob Yoder

EXTRA! Snow days prolong the end of semester for LWSD secondary grade schools

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:20:00 +0000

Due to the snow days, the end of semester for LWSD junior high and high schools has been delayed by one week from January 27 to February 3. An updated exam schedule will be posted soon at the daily schedule page on the RHS web site.

--RHS-PTSA Mustang Weekly EXTRA, 1/23/12

FROM LWSD ADMINISTRATION:

Due to the snow days, the end of semester for junior high and high schools has been changed from January 27 to February 3.

Also due to the snow days, many meetings were cancelled last week. Here is a list of the new dates for those meetings that have been rescheduled:

Inglewood Middle School 6th grade parent night: 7p.m., January 31 starting in the gym

Stella Schola mandatory information night:Wednesday, January 25, from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Rose Hill Junior High cafeteria

Redmond High School meeting for parents of incoming 2012 freshmen: Wednesday, February 1 at 7 p.m.

STEM School mandatory information night: Friday, January 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Redmond Junior High.

Discovery Community School information night: Tuesday, January 24 at 6:30 p.m

--LWSD ADMINISTRATION

UPDATED: Bus Transportation and Overcrowding Problems at Rural Alcott Elementary

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:42:00 +0000

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Bus Transportation and Overcrowding Problems at Rural Alcott Elementary

By Susan Wilkins

LETTER: Alcott Elementary and Rockwell Elementary are two identical schools built from the same architectural plans in the mid-1980s. Rockwell is centrally located in the middle of an urban neighborhood on Education Hill in Redmond. Alcott Elementary is a rural school along Redmond-Fall City Road that was built for rural students who live in the sparsely populated east side of the school district. When we compare the number of students who are transported to each school by bus and the distance that students must travel, we see that locating schools inside Urban Growth Boundaries where students live is more convenient for students and saves school districts money on transportation costs.

Alcott Elementary has an unusual student population. Read More >>

Although it is a rural school, half of its students are bussed from inside the Urban Growth Boundary because the district ran out of space for students at schools inside the cities where the students live. In 2003, large housing developments were built at Woodbridge in Redmond and at Hidden Ridge in Sammamish. Additionally, many housing units (apt/condo) were built along East Lake Sammamish Parkway. Students living in these new developments should have gone to Redmond Elementary or Blackwell Elementary in Sammamish, but both schools were full, so the district sent them to Alcott. Prior to 2003, Alcott had a small, stable rural population of students. After 2003, the enrollment at Alcott began soaring. Multiple portables were added and now Alcott is the second most crowded school in the district. The decision to bus students out to Alcott has been costly.

Rockwell Elementary is centrally located in the middle of a walkable neighborhood. Students who live nearby can walk onto the school grounds from entrances on all sides of the school. Some students live far enough away that the district has to provide bus service, but those students ride less than 2 miles. Last year, Rockwell had 605 students and used 5 full-size buses to transport 217 students to school everyday. In contrast, Alcott Elementary had 675 students and used 9 buses to transport 470 students to school. More than 300 of the Alcott students rode more than 3 miles to school and all of those students were from inside the Redmond and Sammamish city limits. The total cost to bus 217 Rockwell students was $60,230.88 while the cost to bus 470 Alcott students was $160,709.30. Not only were more students bussed to Alcott, the cost per student was also higher because of the longer distance that each student traveled.

The Lake Washington School District has known for years that population growth would occur inside the Urban Growth Boundary where home construction was concentrated. Instead of increasing school capacity at Redmond Elementary or Blackwell Elementary by building additions or by acquiring land and building a new elementary school to accommodate new students in Redmond or Sammamish, they instead have been busing them off to rural Alcott – which is not only more costly, but it is also less healthy for students who never have the opportunity to walk to school.

The high cost of busing students to Alcott and the fact that Alcott’s overcrowding is caused by urban students being bussed to a distant, rural school illustrates a level of entrenched incompetence and malaise in the school district's facilities planning department that has been going on for a long time. The facilities department is in dire need of new leadership and close supervision. This will be a challenge for the new superintendent.

LETTER By Susan Wilkins
Redmond resident, LWSD parent, PTSA volunteer

Redmond High News & Events - Town Meetings with Jane Todd rescheduled

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 06:46:00 +0000

Breaking News: Due to the snow days, the end of semester for junior high and high schools has been delayed by one week from January 27 to February 3. An updated exam schedule will be posted soon at the daily schedule page on the RHS web site.

INFORMATION SESSIONS FOR FAMILIES OF INCOMING STUDENTS. For families with an incoming RHS freshman or sophomore, the Town Meetings with Principal Jane Todd have been rescheduled to: January 25 and February 1, as follows:

· Freshmen. For the parents of incoming freshmen, there will be a Town Meeting in the PAC with Principal Jane Todd on January 25th. A second freshmen parent meeting on February 1 will feature an evening orientation presented by RHS counseling staff.

· Sophomores. For the parents of incoming sophomores, there will be an evening orientation presented by the Redmond High School counseling staff on January 25th. A second incoming sophomore parent meeting on February 1 will feature a Town Meeting in the PAC with Principal Jane Todd.

###

CHEER FOOD DRIVE. In Washington State, 1 in 4 children live in families that struggle to put food on the table on a regular basis. Cheer is running a food drive to help stamp out hunger in our area. Please support Hopelink by bringing a donation of food to ALL home basketball games! Hopelink needs our help! Questions? Please ask a cheerleader.Read More! >>

LATIN DANCE EXPLOSION! On Saturday, January 28th at 7 PM, let the RHS Latinos Unidos club treat you to an evening of salsa lessons, food, and dancing to great Latin music at the Old Fire House Teen Center. FREE. To be involved, contact Chris Cullen.

REDMOND JUNIOR HIGH PRESENTS MULAN JR. The Redmond High School PAC is very proud to host students from Redmond Junior High as they present Mulan Jr. Please join us for a wonderful performance by RJH students on: February 2, 7:00 pm, February 3, 7:00 pm, and February 4, 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm at the RHS PAC. All tickets $7

GO STANGS! Congrats to the gymnastics team for placing first in all events and to the wrestling team for winning its matches in recent events!

CONGRATS REFLECTIONS WINNERS! RHS entered 15 works of art for the PTSA Reflections competition and our students were awarded 6 rosettes (more than any other LWSD high school)! The Reflections theme this year was "Diversity means." The top awards for "Outstanding Interpretation" went to Zoha Syed for Visual Art and for Musical Composition to Amanda Pang. Awards of Excellence went to Tiffany Kwakwa for musical composition and to Dwana Chung for visual Arts. Rosalyn Leban received an Award of Merit for literature as did Christine Powell for her photography. Zoha, Amanda, Tiffany, and Dawna's work will now go on to state level and we wish them all the best of luck. One piece will be chosen to represent RHS at the Lake Washington Schools Foundation lunch

"MUSTANG WEEKLY" - RHS PTSA Newsletter, January, 2012

Washington state prep lacrosse schedules announced - 10 new boys and girls high school teams

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 06:15:00 +0000

Washington state prep lacrosse schedules announced

2012 lacrosse continues to grow in Washington state with the addition of 10 new boys and girls high school teams among the 157 now available to students in nearly 200 state high schools.

SEATTLE –The Washington State Chapter of US Lacrosse today announced the 2012 schedules for boys and girls high school lacrosse for its 34th season in Washington state.

The spring season for school teams throughout western Washington and the Spokane, Wenatchee, Tri Cities and Yakima areas in eastern Washington gets underway on March 9.   The season concludes with the girls state championships Saturday, May 19 at The Eastside Catholic School in Sammamish and the boys state championships, Saturday, May 26 at Memorial Stadium in Seattle. Read More >>

In 2012, lacrosse continues to grow in Washington state with the addition of 10 new boys and girls high school teams among the 157 now available to students attending nearly 200 high schools in the state.

Boys Schedule: The Washington High School Boys Lacrosse Association season begins Friday, March 9 with 2011 Division I runner-up Issaquah traveling to the Overlake School and Lake Washington visiting Bainbridge.

State Division I champion Mercer Island opens its season on the road at Bainbridge (Saturday, March 10), while Woodinville, the Division II state champion, now playing in Division I, opens at home against Division II state runner-up Sammamish (Tuesday, March 13).

New boys teams are located in Burien (Kennedy Catholic High School), Edmonds (Meadowdale High School / Lynnwood High School), Monroe (Monroe High School) and Camas (Union High School).    In their first games Kennedy hosts Highline and Monroe travels to Everett (Tuesday, March 13), while Redmond travels to Camas to face Union High School (Friday, March 16).

Girls Schedule: The Washington Schoolgirls Lacrosse Association, which to accommodate growth has reconfigured into single varsity and JV divisions, kicks-off Monday, March 12 with four games; North Kitsap at Spanaway Lake, Lake Sammamish at Klahowya, Mercer Island hosting Overlake and Curtis visiting Forest Ridge.

Girls Division I state champion Bainbridge opens its season at home against Issaquah, while girls Division II state champion Bellevue East opens in a home matchup with Mercer Island (both games on Wednesday, March 14).

New girls varsity teams are located in Spanaway (Bethel High School / Spanaway Lake High School), Graham (Graham-Kapowsin High School), Tacoma (Bellarmine Prep) and Puyallup (Puyallup High School / Rogers High School).    In their first games Bethel hosts Bellevue (Monday, March 12), Graham-Kapowsin hosts Eastside Catholic (Tuesday, March 13), Puyallup hosts Curtis (Wednesday, March 14), Bellarmine Prep hosts Lake Tapps (Thursday, March 15). Girls JV teams playing in their first season include Gig Harbor (Gig Harbor High School / Peninsula High School) and Vashon Island (Vashon Island High School). Spokane Teams In Spokane, teams from Gonzaga Prep (boys and girls), University and Central Valley High Schools (boys) and South Hill (Ferris High School) (boys) play in the North Idaho Lacrosse League. The season also gets underway for Spokane teams in early March.

Complete boys and girls high school varsity and junior varsity schedules for all Washington teams are available at http://www.uslax-wa.org/

About High School Lacrosse in Washington State Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in the US and in Washington state has experienced double-digit annual growth throughout the past decade. With a 34-year local history, 157 individual boys and girls high school teams are available to students attending nearly 200 WIAA schools across eastern and western Washington.   Governed by the Washington High School Boys Lacrosse Association and the Washington Schoolgirls Lacrosse Association, the sport is played during the spring season and capped by annual boys and girls state championships in late May. To learn more about lacrosse in Washington or to receive daily high school results visit USLAX-WA.org or follow us on Facebook or Twitter @WashingtonHSLAX. To learn more about the history, traditions and values of lacrosse, college opportunities available to students and the 21 US states now sanctioning high school lacrosse visit http://www.uslacrosse.org/.

"The Hugging Tree" crashes down

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 23:58:00 +0000

"The Hugging Tree" crashes down - remaining stump and debris in foreground

LETTER: Wanted to be sure you know about this loss to a beloved part of Redmond history:

From the Ferrel McWhirter Park facebook page, we have learned that the "hugging tree" was destroyed by the snow and ice. This tree was a major focal point of the south side of the park.

As the name implies, generations of kids attending the City-run preschool at the park regularly would make a circle around this wonderful tree. Call them tree-huggers or not, but they did learn to love nature!

Even kids now grown are crushed to learn of this loss. Perhaps someone should be brought in to create a fitting piece of art out of the remaining stump?

The nearby preschool at the park is one of the hidden gems of Redmond, and my kids have grown up with some of the friends they met there.

They all consider this "their" park forever, and it is an anchor to the area for us all.

Letter by anonymous reader
Submitted to RNB on 1/21/12

Real-time Power Outage Updates

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 17:02:00 +0000

Real-time Power Updates: Real-time Updates and Service Alert Map

Despite a new and damaging storm Saturday morning with wind gusts of 45 miles per hour, Puget Sound Energy crews continued their work to restore power to customers who have been out of service due to this week’s snow and ice storms.

On Saturday morning, 188 power line crews, along with crew coordinators and damage assessors--nearly 900 people--are in Thurston, Pierce and King counties making repairs and restoring power. Read More for updates and details >>

Urban Coyote with prize squirrel

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 22:35:00 +0000

KIM / Urban Coyote with Squirrel

"Guess everyone deserves a good breakfast...that's when this took place...he returned later to blink at us....ha."

--Kim, Education Hill residential neighborhood, South-end

Photo by Kim, 1/18/2012

UPDATED: Bloodmobile in Redmond closes early due to storm - 7 pints collected

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 22:52:00 +0000

Bloodmobile has "room for five"

A serious shortage of blood at the Puget Sound Blood Bank was announced by the city yesterday and today.   One of their bloodmobile's drove up from Tukwilla (said traffic on 405 was the worst) and parked outside the Police Safety Building. They were in operation from 10a.m. to 1p.m. and collected from no more than seven donors. That would be 7 pints. They were supposed to be open til 4p.m. but left early owing to the roads.

I ran into an old acquaintance giving blood, Art Sullivan.  Art's the Executive Director of the A Regional Coalition of Housing. (ARCH). He's got a really cool website that was just updated with a new category on Senior housing options.

Even with the shortened hours and ongoing snowfall, I thought there'd be more than seven donors. The city advertised the blood drive on their website, by email, and press release. Are city communicatons getting through? It was a while since I gave blood and I barely noticed the needle.  It felt good to give ha ha! The staff were nice, with juice and cookies afterwards!

Updated Opinion By Bob Yoder
Photo was taken by bloodmobile staff

Safety Alert from the City of Redmond

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:19:00 +0000

from the desk of Jim Bove, City of Redmond police community facilitator at 9AM, 1/19 ...

Roads are very slick today with sleet covering them. Just because it’s not snowing doesn’t mean it’s safe to drive. Enjoy the winter weather if you can from home and stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. The other day when it started we had a few people disobeying road closure signs—they thought because they had 4-wheel drive they could make it. They did not, so we had to pull officers from other areas to help them get out .

Yesterday was completely different – everyone got an A+ as far as we’re concerned—people stayed off the roads and those who did drive did so very cautiously.

Speaking of lives, if you are close to downtown, the Puget Sound Blood Center has notified the City that its blood supply will be at 70% below safe supply levels because of the storm. To make up this deficit, the Blood Mobile will be at Redmond City Hall (between City Hall and the Police Station) from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (with a break from 12:30 to 1:30). All eligible donors are welcome. If you are close and a donor, please consider stopping by. If you have questions, you can contact Maggie Lovell at mlovell@redmond.gov for assistance. Be safe (…and warm…and dry)!

Jim Bove
Redmond Police Community Facilitator

Please click this link for Community Traffic and Emergency weather Alerts.

Overlake Continues to Expand Clinic Network; Overlake Urgent Care Opens in Redmond

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:40:00 +0000

Open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. in Creekside Crossing Shopping Center across the street from Safeway.

Overlake Hospital Medical Center is continuing to grow its network of clinics on the Eastside. Its brand new Urgent Care Clinic at Overlake Medical Clinics Redmond opened January 9, 2012. The clinic is located at Creekside Crossing Shopping Center in Redmond and will be open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

“Overlake is an independent, community-focused hospital that is driven by the key objective of best serving the Eastside community,” said Craig Hendrickson, Overlake’s President and CEO. “The continued expansion and opening of this Urgent Care Clinic in Redmond allows us to continue to provide our patients with excellent care and our signature attention to detail, quality and patient safety.” Read More >>

The primary focus of the network of Overlake Medical Clinics, including the new clinic in Redmond, is to promote health and wellness. Over the past two years, Overlake has focused on adding new primary and urgent care clinics and expanding its physician network to better serve patients in convenient locations close to where they live and work. Each clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and is designed to provide patients with a comfortable healing environment and short wait times.

When used appropriately for non-life-threatening-conditions, Urgent Care can be a cost-effective treatment option, with a co-pay that is usually less than one for an emergency room visit.

The Redmond Urgent Care Clinic will be Overlake’s seventh primary care clinic on the Eastside. The other six clinics are scattered across Bellevue, Kirkland and Issaquah. An eighth primary care clinic will be opening at the Redmond Town Center in spring of 2012.

Overlake Hospital Medical Center is a nonprofit, non-tax-supported regional medical center with a network of medical clinics throughout the Eastside. The hospital is licensed for 349 beds and offers a comprehensive range of services including cardiac care, cancer care, general and specialty surgery, women’s programs, senior care, psychiatric services and it was the first Level III trauma service on the Eastside.

Overlake also participates in a wide range of community outreach activities including health fairs, free health screening events, wellness classes and wellness publications.

For more information, visit http://www.overlakehospital.org/ . Follow us on Twitter, @OverlakeHMC and “Like” us on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/OverlakeHospital

Tune into Redmond Community Radio AM 1650 for severe weather and traffic alerts

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 17:47:00 +0000

Tune into Redmond Community Radio AM 1650 for severe weather and traffic advisories.

Reception is best from vehicle radios. 24/7.
Look for AM 1650 road closure signs.

School Board should consider Jane Todd for Superintendent

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 16:43:00 +0000

Jane Todd speaking from District podium, 2009

OPINION: The Redmond Reporter's January 6 article: "Community invited to meet LWSD superintendent candidate” is misleading. They write that: "Pierce will replace Dr. Chip Kimball, who is leaving to take a school superintendent position in Singapore." District Director Kathryn Reith's press release is the source of this mis-information. The school board hasn't decided to replace Dr. Kimball with Dr.Traci Pierce. They prefer Traci Pierce and are open to feedback and candidate suggestions from the community. On December 6, when I asked for clarification, Communications Director Ms. Reith wrote:

"The board did not hire Traci. It stated that she is their preferred candidate. She will go through a process of being introduced to the community (meet and greets) and the board will solicit feedback. The board could after that feedback decide not to hire Traci. If that is their decision, they could indeed look at other internal candidates or external candidates."

I commend the school board on engaging the community in this critical decision requiring their vote. Leaving their decision open to community feedback is a wise and thoughtful action. I have attended many school board meetings and work sessions and have seen Traci in action. She's excellent and a good fit with the Board. I don't know who could replace her.

As Traci makes her rounds, I am thrilled parents are getting a glimpse of Jane Todd's LEADERSHIP skills during school "Town Meetings" on configuration. Jane Todd is a skilled and admired LWSD principal with experience leading Juanita High and RHS administrations. Some may say she is the “people’s choice.” Administrator Todd is a leader in a time when we need leadership the most. And, who can possibly replace Traci Pierce as Deputy Superintendent of School Support. It’s a massive job. The School Board should take a second look at their “preferred.” In these times, LWSD needs a leader.

The School Board is asking for your feedback and candidate suggestions Write them by February 6 to Board@lwsd.org.

Opinion by Bob Yoder

Published in the Reporter, 1/13

LINKS Volunteers: Caring about the needs of kids and schools - registering now

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 17:55:00 +0000

LINKS volunteer with her kids!

"LINKS": Looking Into the Needs of Kids and Schools

"LINKS" is a program of the Lake Washington School District (LWSD), with funding provided by the Lake Washington Schools Foundation. LINKS recruits and places community volunteers in LWSD schools, including those in the Kirkland, Redmond and Sammamish communities.

Contact Nanci Weir to sign-up or learn more at: LINKS@lwsd.org
What Type of Volunteering Can I Do?

LINKS volunteers spend one hour per week in the classroom as mentors, tutors and classroom helpers. Volunteers are placed based on the needs of the schools in the district and the interests of the LINKS volunteers. Read More!
--Source: LWSD website LINK page

COMMENT: I was a Lunch Buddy for 8 years! It was a great experience for me at the time the schools were funding the program. In 2010-11 program funding was taken over by the FOUNDATION and the road got a little rocky. I've since heard the FOUNDATION has a full-time Executive Director and is well run and better than ever. Sign-up! These kids need you! And, the rewards to you will be ten-fold. -- Bob Yoder

Evergreen Hospital is hoping to start a new midwifery program

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 02:15:00 +0000

A midwife measures the height of the mother's
fundus at about 26 weeks to
determine the probable gestational age
of the fetus. (Wikipedia)

Evergreen Hospital is hoping to start a new midwifery program and wants to know which services you would like to see as part of this program. Please take a few minutes and fill out this confidential survey. Thank you for your time and participation!

To learn more about the campaign for a new Evergreen Midwifery program and connect with the local midwifery community visit this local Midwifry Facebook page.

What is mid-wifery all about? FAQ

Click this link for the short, confidential survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SMPHPWR

Visit this site for more information on the survey and local midwifery services.

-Courtesy of "Support Midwifrey at Evergreen Hospital"

LETTER: Group Health developer should buy own property to mitigate tree clear-cut

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 19:57:00 +0000

LETTER: It's easy to assume the four listed parks would have received new trees regardless of the developer's actions. So, while this might reduce costs to the city, it won't result in offsetting trees removed from the Overlake property.

The developer should be required to purchase their own property, plant trees, and gauantee the survival of those trees for a reasonable period of time -- 99-years for example. Such a requirement has been place on developers in the past, in other areas of the U.S., and isn't unreasonable to expect here.

Letter by Douglas Burchard
Source: Comment posted on: "City identifies four locations for Group Health's clear-cut tree mitigation..."

ATTN: Redmond Ombudsman-of-the-month, Councilmember Pat Vache'

The city identifies four locations for Group Health's Overlake clear-cut tree mitigation, City concedes additional densities to landowner

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 01:40:00 +0000

Current Group Health site - parking lot
and treed canopy

UPDATED: The entire 28-acre "Group Health Overlake Center" site is approved for complete clear-cutting (in phases) once development gets underway. City council agreed 6-1 to an Exception of the long-standing ordinance that requires 35% retention of all trees in land use projects. Over 1,100 of the original significant trees and larger landmark trees will be removed.

Bill Biggs, the proponent for landowner Group Health, presented a sealed offer during the December 13 meeting to assuage council and the large crowd speaking against 100% tree removal. Council held off on their decision to review Mr. Biggs offer. (Mr. Biggs is also President of the Redmond Economic Development Alliance).

Mr. Bigg's offer was solely about the park. It was reviewed by city staff and accepted by council on January 3, as this ammendment:

"The City shall design and install additional park improvements consistent with its neighborhood park standards RZC 21...." In the process of designing the Park, the City shall consider retention of existing significant and landmark trees where feasible and consistent with good park design and public safety. The Owner and members of the community shall be consulted and given opportunity to comment on proposed park features, design and materials.

The City shall seek opportunities for preservation of trees in connection with the design of the Park"

Associate city planner Dennis Lisk wrote: "I looked into the number of significant and landmark trees located within the area of the future park and found approximately 12 significant trees, none of which are landmark trees." Mr. Lisk said there was no guarantee these park trees would be retained, or any others.

Four-hundred trees are slated for planting on the site. Their size is undefined, as to sapling or 12 foot standard trees. Rain gardens, planted courtyards, pervious roads, and other LID features are planned.

To compensate for the tree removal, Group Health will plant 3,345 trees and 31,220 shrubs off site in parks and near creeks "to approximate the environmental benefits" of the Group Health forest canopy. Once Group Health sells it's first parcel for development, ~250 trees will be planted in each of the following 2-acre sites:

Juel Park (east) [city contact: Betty Sanders, bbsanders@redmond.gov]
Perrigo Park (west) [city contact: Betty Sanders]
Millennium Office Park/Swedish easement adjacent Bear Creek. [city contact: Dennis Lisk, ddlisk@redmond.gov]
Viewpoint Open Space (after blackberries are cleared). city contact: [Betty Sanders]

Group Health will have another 2,300 trees and thousands of shrubs to plant at presently, unidentified locations.

Of note, according to Lisk, "60% of the parking is underground and expensive and, as a concession to Group Health for this expense additional densities were permitted by the City." i.e. building height and number of buildings. Another, unnamed city official said density concessions were given in the earlier planning stages to retain the trees.

Comments are welcome.

Reported by Bob Yoder
Photo by Yoder

Mayor Emeritus Rosemarie Ives objects to clear-cutting 28-acre urban Group Health site

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 07:08:00 +0000

This Group Health structure in Redmond's Overlake Center will be replaced mostly by a park and nearby 13-story hotel.
"The City is required to seek opportunities to preserve landmark and significant trees in connection with the design
of the park." The approved plan identifies "approximately 12 significant trees and no landmarks" in the area of the
future park. There is no guarantee they will be saved. - D. Lisk, Assoc. Planner, Redmond.

The following, was presented to city officials by Redmond's Mayor Emeritus Rosemarie Ives, on January 3, 2012 during "Items from the Audience"

Good evening Mayor and Redmond City Councilmembers. My name is Rosemarie Ives. I am here tonight as a resident to ask for reconsideration of the council’s decision on December 13th regarding the Group Health Master Plan and Development Agreement.

As the former mayor, I know that this forested property matters to the people of Redmond and those of us who are here tonight object to the clear-cutting of this iconic site. I believe that the criteria for exception to the tree preservation/retention regulations have been misapplied and not justified. Read More >>

I believe that with reconsideration, some additional time can be devoted to the outstanding issues that I will speak to this evening. Although there are more issues, I will speak briefly on five because each should raise questions in your minds. The public deserves your further investigation of the answers. I recommend that the council ask that the development agreement not be signed and deferred to a later time when these issues have been resolved so as to protect the city from unforeseen financial consequences.

#1. Public Information, Public Notice, and Community Outreach

The notice of this proposal to the public was deficient in several ways. Press releases and other information from the city, other than going on line to read the master plan, were very general in their description of what was being proposed. I read the press release sent out after the council’s September 27 meeting and there was no mention that over 1000 trees were being cut down.

The public who might have received the weekly Redmond Reporter in their driveway in mid December might have read about the trees. The City of Bellevue that for decades has been involved with the City of Redmond on common planning issues especially transportation planning in the Overlake area has not been formally contacted about this project.

Although the initial public hearing on this proposal in mid October was advertised in The Seattle Times, the continuation of the public hearing to December 6 and onto December 13 was not. So there has not been sufficient time to research exactly what was or was not entailed in community outreach. The public information and outreach has not been enough!

#2. Growth Management Act and Mandates

Except for Councilmember Kim Allen, councilmembers who voted for the proposal mentioned Growth Management as the reason for their support. Since the enactment of GMA, Redmond has been a leader in accommodating both job growth and housing. In fact as a result of the desire for job growth to continue in the 1990’s and beyond, the city up-zoned the North Education Hill Neighborhood, Downtown Redmond, and the Overlake Neighborhood to make sure there was sufficient capacity for housing. Today Redmond’s statistics are approximately 55,000 residents and 80,000 jobs.

As of the 2007 update of the Overlake Neighborhood Plan, there is capacity for an additional 41 new buildings (26-6 story, 8-8story,7-9story). A graphic created in 2007 by Redmond staff was shown on the overhead. As a result of the 2007 update, Group Health had 2 million square feet of development with the trees. With this 2011 proposal, Group Health’s capacity has increased by 50% to 3 million square feet of development without 1133 trees.

There is nothing in GMA that requires a community to clear-cut any site nor is there anything that requires the city to abandon more than 20 years of adopted preservation and retention policies. In fact, GMA’s policies encourage open space. Saving trees can be very consistent with smart growth. Trees are not in conflict with urban centers.

#3. SEPA

An impact analysis of clearing significant and landmark trees from the Group Health site was never presented in any of the SEPA documents for the Overlake area. Neither vegetation nor wildlife elements were analyzed in either the May 1999 EIS or August 2007 SEIS and therefore never included any analysis of impacts of tree removal, either within the Overlake Neighborhood or more specifically the Group Health Master Plan area. I believe that the authors assumed that the long adopted tree preservation regulations and that had been implemented extensively throughout the city were in place and would continue to be so.

The November 2011 Environmental Checklist for the Group Health Master Plan and Development Agreement included a general response by the Proponent (Group Health) to part 4. Plants of the Checklist, b. What kind and amount of vegetation will be removed or altered ? The Proponent did not answer the question or disclose the impacts of the proposal – the removal of 1133 trees or the impacts to associated wildlife. Furthermore, no information was provided in the Supplemental Sheets for Non-Project Actions regarding how the proposal would affect plants and animals, and what measures are proposed to protect or conserve plants and animals.

The City of Redmond’s November 2011 Addendum to the Final Supplemental EIS stated: “An addendum is appropriate when a proposal has been modified, but the changes would not result in any new significant adverse impacts…No significant adverse impacts are anticipated as a result of this proposal.” Such is not the case for the proposed GH Overlake Master Plan. The SEPA analysis for the process has proved to be deficient and should be reanalyzed to meet the legal requirements. This is a serious omission.

#4. Tree Retention/Preservation Policies and Precedence

Tree Retention/Preservation policies have been in place as adopted policy for at least 20 years. Additional policies regarding Sustainability and Global Warming have been more recently adopted over the past eight years. Cutting 65 landmark trees and significant stands of trees is not sustainable.

Trees have contributed extensively to the character of Redmond. The Group Health site has been a significant environmental asset in Overlake’s sea of asphalt. The trees and forests at Group Health are what is extraordinary in Overlake.

Those policies have been extensively implemented throughout Redmond regardless of zoning. An overhead was shown listing some of the more well-known sites where tree preservation has occurred: Redmond Town Center, Home Depot, Eddie Bauer Corporate Headquarters, Abbey Road, Redmond Junior High School, Horace Mann Elementary, Perrigo Heights, The Woodlands, Redmond Presbyterian, Microsoft.

As a result of these policies, the developments are recognized beyond the city’s borders as quality environments which have resulted in greater prosperity for the property owners and the city….and the experience of all who frequent those properties is more productive and beneficial. Businesses and residents have been attracted to Redmond for its natural environment, especially the trees and forests that have been preserved in perpetuity because of the city’s forward thinking and preservation requirements and regulations.

I am tremendously concerned about this decision being precedent-setting. Did councilmembers read the Technical Report regarding N.OV58 regarding the preservation of stands of trees. Staff wrote that “tree preservation was not a goal.” What about adopted policy ? I do not believe that the council gave any policy direction early on to staff that the tree exception for total clear-cutting should be advanced to and promoted with the applicant which is unfortunate for the applicant. So from this point on, does anyone who has land with a tree or trees now free to cut down all the trees ? Am very concerned about the implications of this action for future development and for the overall quality of life in Redmond.

#5. Mitigation

There is no way that new trees and bushes can accrue equal benefit as the existing trees and shrubs. This is a simple math equation…or simple economics – how long will it take for the new one gallon trees and plants to make up the ecological value of the present trees ? Never and certainly not enough!

Two overheads were shown that come from an on-line tree calculator that provides annual benefits in actual dollars. A 34” diameter Douglas fir tree provides benefits of $146 every year while a 1” diameter Douglas fir (one gallon size proposed in mitigation plan) provides $1 . Benefit goes mostly to stormwater with small amounts going to air quality and CO2. The numbers speak for themselves!
In addition I have some concerns about the impact of the mitigation plan on existing city resources.

In conclusion, there are outstanding issues with regard to these five areas that have not been explained or revealed to both the council and the public. There is no reason for a collision course here. There can be a wonderful relationship between the natural and built environments. These trees, especially the northwest corner of the Group Health site is THE signature community open space in Overlake.

I believe that reconsideration will provide additional time so the Group Health site can be developed in a responsible manner that upholds long-adopted and extensively implemented city policies, honors and advances the environmental ethic and values of our community and provides Group Health with significant benefit.

Thank you for your attention.

Rosemarie Ives
Mayor Emeritus, Redmond
1992-2007

Photo: The photo of "Group Health Cooperative" is from Google Images. The caption: Redmond City associate planner, Dennis Lisk (425-556-2471) refers to the amended, and approved ordinance.

Notes:
Ordinance and Resolution: of the Group Health Overlake Master Planned Development, December 6, 2011. After Council's 6-1 (Allen) decision to approve on 12/13, this ordinance was amended in Section 8.1.4 to include: "the city shall consider retention of existing significant and landmark trees where feasible and consistent with good park design and public safety." The city made no commitment to seek retention of trees in the future park or on the site plan developments.

According to Wikipedia the link to Rosemarie Ives is a stub and needs additional citations for verification. Rosemarie published this piece the week (1/6/12) the Redmond Reporter published: "Council sticks to decision on Overlake Plan - Concerned citizens want leaders to reconsider tree removal..." and "Doreen Marchione named Kirkland deputy mayor." B.Y.

UPDATED JANUARY 25: LWSD Board looks to community for feedback on their "only most important decision" - hiring a superintendent

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 06:42:00 +0000

Jackie Pendergrass
President, LWSD Board

UPDATED, Jan. 25: I'd like to correct the Redmond Reporter's January 6 article: "Community invited to meet LWSD superintendent candidate." The Reporter writes: "Pierce will replace Dr. Chip Kimball, who is leaving to take a school superintendent position in Singapore." This is misleading. The school board hasn't decided to replace Mr. Kimball with Traci Pierce. They prefer Traci but are still open to suggestions and feedback.

Deadline for input is February 22. Contact: Board@lwsd.org

On December 6, Communications Director Kathryn Reith wrote:

"The board did not hire Traci. It stated that she is their preferred candidate. She will go through a process of being introduced to the community (meet and greets) and the board will solicit feedback. The board could after that feedback decide not to hire Traci. If that is their decision, they could indeed look at other internal candidates or external candidates."

I commend the school board on engaging the community in this critical decision they must vote on. As the Board likes to say, "hiring a superintendent is the only most important decision they make."; leaving their decision open to community feedback is a wise and thoughtful action. I have attended many school board meetings and work sessions and have seen Traci in action. She's terrific and a good fit with the Board. I don't know who could replace her in School Services.

As Traci makes her rounds, I am thrilled parents are getting a glimpse of Jane Todd's leadership skills during district "Town Meetings" on class re-configuration. Please comment.

In the Evergreen JH Town Meeting and a PTSA newsletter, Ms. Todd speaks to the re-configuration challenge:

“We will get there by small steps and a clear view of our destination, not by grandiose plans that feel too big to accomplish, at least not all at once. When staff members look at me with desperation and fear in their eyes, born out of concern for students more than for themselves, I have been saying, "Take a deep breath and then take one manageable step... And, I mean it.”

NEW!! For families of incoming students, there's still time to see Traci and Jane and give your feedback to the school board, as follows:

>>>Traci Pierce's City of Sammamish: Tuesday, January 17 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers, Sammamish City Hall, 801 228th Ave SE Sammamish, WA

>>>Lake Washington School District: Wednesday, January 25 from 4:00- 5:30 p.m. in the Hughes Room of the L.E. Scarr Resource Center, 16250 NE 74th St., Redmond.

>>>Traci Pierce's City of Kirkland: Thursday, Feb. 7 from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at Kirkland City Hall, 123 Fifth Avenue Kirkland

>>>Jane Todd's DATES MOVED AHEAD DO TO SNOW: RHS Town Meeting for families of incoming students is in the Performing Arts Center, on ~~Jan. 18 (Soph) and Jan. 25~~ (Frosh). Call the new RHS number for times: 425-936-1800

Opinion By Bob Yoder

LWSD Administrator Jane Todd holds Town Hall Meeting at Evergreen Junior High

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 00:30:00 +0000

RHS Principal Jane Todd at the podium w/ associates
addressing the LWSD Board, 2009. Her speech topic:
"Building culture at RHS"

from the desk of RHS District Principal Jane Todd to the Redmond High Community...

I had the pleasure of meeting with all the 8th and 9th graders at Evergreen Junior High School a couple
of weeks ago (don't worry, RJHS, your turn will come in early 2012.) Other administrators from both
EHS and RHS participated with me in a Town Meeting format. I have to first tell you I was absolutely
charmed by all their questions, but my favorite was: Student: "So, tell me about the parking lot
situation at Redmond High." Me: (after a significant pause in which I tried to determine the seriousness of the question) "Well, if you can drive - with a license to do so - you can get a parking pass." The student was in the 8th grade. Never let it be said these students do not plan ahead.

At the end of each session, we were asked by Jan Olson, Principal at EJHS, to give one piece of advice
that students could act on now. Mine was, "Reflect on who you are, what you have done to date to
meet the goals you have for yourself and what changes you may need to make for the future because
you will have a fresh start next fall." I went on to mention that there are only a few times in our lives
when we have the opportunity to start over with a fresh slate. Read More >>
I wanted to impress on students that they have the power to choose a different path if the one they are on is not leading them to a good place. I said what I said for effect, but the truth is that I really believe getting stuck is an illusion. We have an opportunity with every decision we make to start ourselves on a different course, to have that fresh start. That is what I believe. Acting on what I believe is a different thing, of course.

You will get this letter in January, the month of resolutions. It seems fitting then, with the world feeling
upside down, out of control and overwhelming, that we try to remind ourselves that the difference
between making a resolution and keeping a resolution is often just one small step. And then another.
And another. To me, that resolution making vs. resolution keeping thing is analogous to what we
are experiencing with our reconfiguration. We will get there by small steps and a clear view of our
destination, not by grandiose plans that feel too big to accomplish, or at least not all at once. When
staff members look at me with desperation and fear in their eyes, born out of concern for students more
than for themselves, I have been saying, "Take a deep breath and then take one manageable step." And
I mean it.

Here's to you and yours in the New Year! May it be peaceful.

Sincerely,
Jane
425-936-1800 (new RHS number)

Ms. Todd's letter was published in the RHS PTSA newsletter, "Mustang Weekly" According to the December Weekly, she will hold a Town Meeting at RHS (PAC) on Jan. 18 (Soph) and Jan. 25 (Frosh) for the families of these students.

Six Eastside "Mental Health and Wellness" Events

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 20:58:00 +0000

Nami-Eastside presents an Educational Forum...

“RESILIENCE- A FORGOTTEN STRENGTH”

Guest: Greg Schell, M.Ed.,

Director of Washington State Fathers Network

Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 7 PM - 9 PM

*Evergreen Hospital, Suite Tan 100, 12303 NE 130th Lane, Kirkland, WA 98034

For over 30 years Washington State Father's Network Director Greg Schell, M.Ed 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. Too much stress and we forgot that we have this incredible attribute. Please come willing to discuss some of your own resilient successes, as most likely you have something everyone can learn from. Join us! This event is FREE and open to EVERYONE! PHONE: 425-885-NAMI (6264) WEB: http://www.nami-eastside.org/ E-MAIL: INFO@NAMI-EASTSIDE.ORG

*Evergreen offers In-Home Mental Health Services.

*********************************************************************************

NAMI Advocacy Day in Olympia

Monday, January 16th, 2012 - All Day

Join concerned engaged citizens from across the state as we travel to Olympia to meet with our legislators. This is an all day event. NAMI Eastside will be traveling to Olympia to meet with several Senators and Representatives from the Eastside of King county that represent the many cities that we serve. We will be advocating for the rights of our citizens that have a mental illness and for funding of mental health services. Please join in!

Call 425 885 6264 or email info@nami-eastside.org for more information.

Read More Events >>

NAMI Basics Classes start January 19, 2012

There is still room to register for the NAMI Basics Classes that start Thursday, January 19, 2012. NAMI Basics is for any parent or primary caregiver of a child or adolescent living with mental illness. Nami Basics offers education and support. Taught by parents who have lived similar experiences with their own children. The course provides learning and practical insights for families. Basics is free of charge and consists of six classes that meet weekly. The class will meet from January 19 - February 23 from 630PM to 9PM and will meet at the Together Center in Redmond. To register or for more information please call 425 885 6264 or email info@nami-eastside.org

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NAMI Connections Redmond Changing Meeting Day

NAMI Connections will be moving the Tuesday weekly meeting to every Wednesday starting February 1, 2012. Connections will meet every Wednesday from 630PM to 8PM at the Together Center, 16315 NE 87th Street, Building B in the Baker/Adams Conference Room. Only the day has changed, not the location. Connections is a peer run support group. Any questions please call the NAMI Office at 425 885 6264.

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Family to Family Classes Start in February

NAMI Eastside's Family to Family Classes will be starting in February. Family to Family is a free 12 week class for family members of people impacted by mental illness. The class is a peer run family education program designed to foster learning, healing and empowerment among families of individuals with brain disorders and by helping families get beyond the stigma of mental illness. Classes will be held in Bellevue, Bothell and Sammimish. All classes are held in the evening. Over 200,000 people in the US have taken this class. To register or for more information, start times and dates please contact the NAMI Office at 425 885 6264 or email danit@nami-eastside.org

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NAMI Eastside Annual Meeting 2012

NAMI Eastside will hold their annual meeting on Saturday, January 28, 2012. The meeting will be held at Evergreen Hospital, Suite Tan 100, 12303 NE 130th Lane, Kirkland, WA 98034. Meet and Greet 930AM - 10AM. Meeting runs from 10AM - 12PM. Please join us!

Native American Indian students perform for LWSD school board to an overflowing audience.

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:55:00 +0000

Eastside Native American Indian students perform in School District chambers.

Eastside Native American Indian students perform in December 5 school board business meeting to recognize retiring School Board member Ravis Shahadi's 8 years of service. (See Ravi squirm.) Mary Wilber, Director of the Eastside Native American organization also recognized the services of departing Sup. Chip Kimball.

The district chambers were overflowing with various groups attending, including: Merit Scholar awardees and their parents, Sammamish parents and students lobbying for Eastlake athletic field uses, citizens speaking for a convenient STEM school location on Willows Road, and PTSA members and press awaiting the Board's superintendent announcement. Jane Todd, Principal RHS and past-Principal of Juanita High introduced the Merit Scholars.

Eastside Native American Indian Association: http://www.eastsideindianed.org/ The organization serves three school districts

Video report By Bob Yoder