January 2021

Connections

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ISSAQUAH HIGHL ANDS

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By Community, for Community January 2021

NUSA 2020 Winner for Best Nonprofit Print Newsletter!

W H AT ’ S I N S I D E ?

5-7 Feature: See the Dragonflies 9 Highlands Council 10-11 IHCA 13 Health & Fitness 14 Special Programming 15 What's Happening 16 Highlands Youth (HY) 17 Volunteer of the Month

19 21 23 24 24 25 26 27

Doing Business School Spotlight Living Green Ask Kari IH by the Numbers Home Organization Smart Home Directory

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January 2021

Issaquah Highlands Connections

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

January 2021

EDITOR’S NOTE Happy New Year! Inspired by dragonflies, which often symbolize change and transformation, this issue is all about hopeful possibilities in the coming year. This year, Connections will experience its own (temporary) transformation, shifting from monthly publication to quarterly, with issues printed in January, April, July, and October. (See a letter from Highlands Council Board of Trustees President Kimberly Kapustein on page 9 with more details.)

If you’re worried about missing Connections in your mailbox, fear not!

Issaquah Highlands has a robust set of digital media channels that can Connect with us online at issaquahhighlands.com! keep you informed on community news, upcoming programming, and unique stories from neighbors and local businesses. Here are some small steps you can take to stay connected to our Issaquah Highlands community this year: •

Bookmark IssaquahHighlands.com: Our official website is the source for community news and homeowner resources.

•

Subscribe to our weekly e-news: It’s as simple as texting IHNEWS to 22828 (you’ll then be prompted to provide your email address by text). This is the easiest way to stay up to date on everything Issaquah Highlands, right to your inbox.

•

Follow official Issaquah Highlands social media channels: Make sure you follow our Issaquah Highlands Facebook page, Twitter and Instagram accounts, YouTube channel, and our LinkedIn page. Get daily updates from Issaquah Highlands in your preferred feed.

In this issue, resident experts in a variety of fields share their own “small steps” to help you have a happier, healthier year. From civic engagement and finances, to improved mental and physical health, you’re sure to be inspired to start 2021 with a positive perspective and “see the dragonflies.”

Also, in this issue: The IHCA has an exciting mid-year review including potential new community improvements (page 10), be inspired to serve our community as part of the Martin Luther King Jr. Issaquah Highlands Doers and Dreamers Day of Service (page 14), and more.

Although you might not read another letter from me until April, in the meantime I look forward to connecting with you online through the Issaquah Highlands digital media channels (see page 4).

Remember, community is just a click away!

VickiGrunewald

Vicki Grunewald | Highlands Council Media Editor

Highlands Council is the publisher of Connections, producer of community-wide events such as Highlands Day, owner and manager of Blakely Hall, and liaison with the greater community. The mission of Highlands Council, and therefore, Connections, is “to foster the development of a vibrant and caring community committed to service, diversity, and well-being.”

What community issues concern you the most?

What is your experience with IssaquahHighlands.com?

What community events would you like to see in 2021?

How can HFN serve you in the future?

Our Home. Our Future. Our Commitment.

Tell us how YOU really feel about Issaquah Highlands in our 2021 online survey!

Survey results help determine future communication improvements, programming and more. Every voice counts! Survey open until January 31.

Find the link on issaquahhighlands.com, , ,and in our e-news (text IHNEWS to 22828 to sign up).

Sponsored by Highlands Council

issaquahhighlands.com

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January 2021

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

January 2021

Dragonflies SEE THE

small steps to a

happier, healthier year

L

ast summer, I went on a walk with my friends one blistering hot week during a drought.

“It’s going to rain soon,” a friend said.

We looked at her curiously as she stared at the ground. There was an abundance of baby dragonflies darting across our path and over the pond.

by Sophia Hashmey “Dragonflies bring about change,” she continued. “They know HY Board Member, when the weather shifts, so they come out rather excited.”

Issaquah High School Junior, and Park Drive Resident All of us sat there for a while in wonder, watching the creatures

come and go. Sure enough, the next day, it started to rain.

Background: Original artwork by Sophia Hashmey

Whenever I am struggling, especially during the pandemic over the past year, I think of dragonflies. I know that whether it’s seasons, emotions, or ways of life, change is all around us and things will always get better.

A Community Art Project

by Lindsey Pinkston Community Program Manager, Highlands Council and Wisteria Park Resident

When Highlands Youth Advisory Board member, Sophia Hashmey, came to Highlands Council with the idea of a community art project around the transformative symbol of dragonflies, we jumped on it. Highlands Council teamed with Issaquah Highlands resident and eco-artist, Aline Bloch and art instructor, Angela Bizzarri of Epic Art, to develop a project that could involve the entire community, thanks to support from Swedish Issaquah and a grant from the Issaquah Arts Commission.

In January, we’ll offer two all-ages virtual workshops with Aline and Angela where you can create your own threedimensional dragonfly to contribute to the community

display at Blakely Hall (feel free to make another to keep).

Free kits with supplies will be available for pick up (see page 15 for details). Your dragonflies will be displayed around large paintings by Sophia (see the artwork on this page as an example) as a reminder of the possibilities to come in 2021.

To start 2021 with positivity, read on for small things you can do now to have a healthier, happier, and all-around better year, then join us in making dragonfly artworks later this month. We hope you will “see the dragonflies” all around us and embrace the possibilities that come with the new year.

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January 2021

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Small Steps to...

A More Positive Mindset Have gratitude for where you are today!

When we come from a place of gratitude, you have less room for worry, fear, anxiety, and confusion. Be grateful for your current circumstances, no matter how far you are from your “ideal” situation.

Have hope/faith that you can/will improve.

Have confidence that you can change. If you don’t currently have hope and faith, then fake it. Begin to think and speak it into reality.

Determine why you want to change.

Be clear!

Your reason must be bigger than a number on a scale or your pants size. This is something that pulls at your heartstrings.

For example, do you want to get healthy so you can keep up with your grandkids?

Remember your “why” as you go to the next step because if you forget, you will likely quit.

Take actionable baby steps to get closer to your goal.

You must put your plan into action to see any results. This could be as simple as filling your water bottle and remembering to drink it throughout the day.

Form habits.

Once you continue to take those baby steps, those simple, consistent actions will become habits. Habits compound to become who you are.

Change your mindset.

It is possible to change your mindset; it all starts with your beliefs. What your mind can conceive, you can achieve. Start by training your mind to believe you can make the changes necessary to create a new mindset.

– Joan Dandeneau, Fitness and Nutrition Coach and Roanoke Woods Resident

Small Steps to...

Improve the Online Learning Experience Have clear expectations and a routine.

What do you find yourself saying over and over again? Create a checklist and laminate it or use a whiteboard, then you can just point to the board.

Small Steps to...

Be More Civic-Minded Keep an open mind.

This year, challenge yourself to be openminded. Ask respectful questions and listen. If you still disagree with someone, thank them for sharing their opinions or experiences with you.

Know your leaders.

Knowing who your leaders are, locally, statewide, and nationally, is an important part of our democracy. This year, find out who your leaders are and, if you’re up to it, send them a note to introduce yourself and the issues that are most important to you. (Learn more about the Issaquah City Council and how to contact us at issaquahwa.gov/316/City-Council.)

Slow your pace.

Recent experience has shown tasks are taking two or three times longer to complete, forcing us to prioritize, let things go, and focus on the essentials.

Build-in time away from screens.

I find I need to encourage my son to step away from the computer and go outside for some fresh air. We take movement breaks together. We do jumping jacks or have a dance party in between Zoom/class calls; those are some of my favorite moments.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to your school or teachers for help.

Every single child is unique, and what works one day may not work the next day, but we will keep trying. We believe in our students and we believe in the partnerships we have with our parents and community.

– Stacy Cho, Principal, Beaver Lake Middle School, and Kirk Park Resident

Vote.

Vote in every single election. This year, remember to vote in your local elections.

These are the elections that will have the most impact on our day-to-day lives.

Small Steps to...

Live a Greener Lifestyle Stop buying plastic water bottles.

Use a reusable water bottle instead.

Takeout smart and say “no” to singleuse utensils and napkins.

Walk instead of drive for distances less than two miles.

Save water and energy.

Time your showers and upgrade to LED lightbulbs.

Choose reusable vs. disposable grocery store bags.

Compost and recycle at home.

Learn how to do so properly.

Watch an environmental documentary.

Think twice before you buy.

Even try to buy nothing for a year!

Eat mindfully.

Plan meals ahead to reduce food waste.

Roll up your sleeves.

If you’ve mastered the other resolutions, it may be time to roll up your own sleeves this year. Consider joining your local political party or campaign, applying to a city board or commission, or even running for office.

There are so many ways to roll up your sleeves and get involved; find the way that’s right for you.

Write it down.

Write down why it is important to go “greener.” Make it a family activity.

– Aline Bloch, Owner of Aline’s Cardboard and Central Park Resident

– Zach Hall, Issaquah City Councilmember, Legislative Assistant to Washington State Rep. Lisa Callan, Highlands Council Board Trustee, and Vista Park Resident

Photo by Jonah Foss.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

January 2021

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Small Steps to...

Build Stronger Social Ties

Small Steps to...

Embrace the Benefits of Technology Home automation Home automation products are designed to make your day-to-day life easier. Consider products related to entertainment and communications, personal assistance, lighting, security, and home health.

Telecommuting Your HFN fiber internet connection makes working from home easy, providing fast, reliable speeds that make accessing the internet easier for working professionals.

Learning Consider taking an online class. Classes are offered in a variety of subjects, from virtual cooking classes to coding boot camps.

Accessing telemedicine Telemedicine can save you time and unnecessary exposure by offering safe and convenient virtual appointments. Check with your doctor or insurance for options.

Connect with people with whom you share something in common.

Whether it’s your kids at Grand Ridge Elementary, a love for books, owning a small business, or any other common thread, you’ll always have a conversation starter.

Small Steps to...

Have a More Joyful Year Create a "joy jar."

Create a “joy jar” and inside, put what you are grateful for on little pieces of paper. Go through the jar every month or at the end of the year.

Allow time for self-care.

Take time to work on yourself each day.

Read a book, watch a movie, exercise, or anything that relaxes you. If you can’t find time at least days a week, don’t use it as an excuse; start small and make it a habit.

Watching Consider “cutting the cord” with your current cable provider. Streaming services allow you to stream your favorite TV shows or movies anytime.

Plan to start one new thing this year.

Learn a new skill. It could be learning a new instrument, painting, baking, hiking – whatever makes you feel good. There are many things you can do; choose one and go for it.

Playing Create some healthy competition in the new year by challenging your family and friends to some fun online gaming. You can play with people anywhere in the world.

Take some time out of your day to play!

Celebrate joy by singing, laughing, dancing, playing games, or taking a laughter class. When you play, you flow, and flowing brings instant joy.

– Jeremy Fallt, HFN General Manager and Black Nugget Park Resident

Reconnect with a friend or a family member.

Schedule time to take a social-distanced walk with a friend or family member, or even connect with a Zoom call. This is a time to remind each other we are not alone.

Join a virtual event.

With the lack of geographic barriers, there is always something fun going on online.

You can feel connected with people through various online events like community events, educational workshops, game nights, and more.

Go for a social walk.

Try walking around the neighborhood without your earbuds. Say “hello” to everyone you pass and ask a neighbor a genuine question like, “How’s the yard project coming?” Just be sure to keep your distance and mask up for now!

Reach out.

It is human nature to want to share our lives with friends and family. Conversations don’t always have to be long and deep. Text a friend a picture of something funny to let them know you’re thinking about them.

Set your expectations.

Not everyone you interact with will become a good friend, and that’s OK! Sometimes just seeing someone’s face or knowing someone’s on the other end of the phone/ computer is enough to feel connected to your community.

– Lindsey Pinkston, Community Program Manager, Highlands Council, and Wisteria Park Resident

Small Steps to...

Better Financial Health Confirm you have the right house insurance coverage.

If you live in a condominium or an Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA)managed townhouse in Issaquah Highlands, make sure you have HO6 condominium insurance, not HO3 house insurance. You have the wrong coverage in place and are probably overpaying to boot.

Review your life insurance policy.

Take time to check your life insurance policy’s beneficiary list and make sure no unintended beneficiaries are still listed.

Consolidate your workplace retirement plans.

Consider consolidating all your separate workplace retirement plans into a single IRA to allow ease of administration and rebalancing.

Talk to your insurance agent about home remodels.

Let your insurance agent know about planned home renovations or additions to ensure you have the appropriate amount of house insurance.

– David Ngai, Allstate Agent, Highlands Council Board of Trustees Treasurer, and Daphne Park Resident

Make a small difference!

If you can volunteer to help people in our community, know it makes a difference. If everyone makes a small difference, then there will be a ripple effect and you could end up making a major difference in the community.

– Julie Plaut Warwick Certified Laughter Yoga Teacher, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and Forest Ridge Resident

More Tips Online!

Find more details on small steps to have a happier, healthier year on the official Issaquah Highlands blog at issaquahhighlands.com/blog.

Issaquah Highlands Business Networking Group is just one of several community groups that meet virtually. See page 15 for the complete list of active community groups.

Wishing you a happy and healthy new year!

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January 2021

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Safety is our top priority So much has changed in recent months and maintaining your health now is just as important as ever. Your health and safety continue to be our top priorities and we have protocols in place to keep patients and caregivers safe in our hospitals and clinics.

SCREENING. We conduct routine coronavirus symptom screening on patients, visitors and employees.

MASKING. Our facilities have adopted policies that align with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Find connection and joy

DISTANCING. We’re taking steps to ensure appropriate distance between you and other patients, visitors and staff.

IN EXTRAORDINARY TIMES

SENIOR LIVING THAT CONSIDERS YOUR NEEDS & DESIRES ESSENTIAL University House Issaquah features gardens ideal for outdoor gatherings, technology to help you connect, and a variety of stimulating virtual and distanced activities.

Schedule a virtual tour or learn more (425) 200-0331 | eraliving.com Ask about special benefits for

members.

5 STARS

HIGHEST R ATING FOR

QUALIT Y

BY CMS (CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES)

SANITIZING. Our staff are regularly cleaning waiting areas and exam rooms in between visits, and hand sanitizer stations are located throughout our facilities.

SEPARATING. COVID-19 patients, as well as those caring for them, are safely isolated from the rest of the population.

VISITORS. We are limiting people coming into our facilities to those deemed essential. This helps maintain appropriate physical distancing and reduces spread of germs.

VIRTUAL VISITS. For on-demand and routine medical care, we offer virtual visits — a reliable way to see your provider from the comfort your own home.

To learn more about Swedish safety protocols, visit www.swedish.org.

SWEDISH ISSAQUAH 751 NE Blakely Drive, Issaquah, WA 98029 425-313-4000 swedish.org/issaquah

Issaquah Highlands Connections

January 2021

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HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

A Letter from the Highlands Council Board of Trustees

T

he year 2020 was certainly one of new challenges and trying times. On behalf of the Issaquah Highlands Board of Trustees, I want to thank you for your trust in Highlands Council to keep you informed and engaged in community events safely.

by Kimberly Kapustein Highlands Council Board of Trustees President and Communications have never Dahlia Park Resident been more important as we continue to partner with our sponsors to develop new digital features to better meet the communities evolving daily demands. This focus on enhancing our digital assets will allow us to be more agile and engage in a variety of ways.

Be cost-effective and reach a broader audience.

• Move Connections to four printed issues in 2021 so we may focus on improving our digital media presence. Digital engagement has become one of the most effective methods to engage the most community members possible.

Reach more people and those of diverse voices.

• Provide original digital content and helpful resources, created by the Issaquah Highlands Cross-Cultural Committee, as we continue to prioritize issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Encourage community engagement via art projects, service projects, and virtual social events.

• Welcome online participation for all community members, including those who may be wary of public meeting formats. Virtual platforms can be a medium for broader, more moderate views than those of traditional planning meetings sometimes attended primarily by more passionate activists. Everyone has a voice.

Engage more people in a digital format, leading to higher participation, more data, and knowledge.

• Continue and grow the momentum of initiatives started in 2020, including the Issaquah Highlands Community Fund, transportation solutions, and the Branding Committee.

• Meet the community’s needs as we remain in the pandemic using Blakely Hall, our media, and our strong community partner relationships.

2020 was challenging, but in some ways, it brought us closer together, making us more aware of how we spend our time. We love that community members can engage with us digitally anytime, anywhere, as long they have internet access. Your virtual involvement better informs our decisionmaking process and can make the difference between a good and a poor decision on a project. Be sure to share your voice with us online in our 2021 community survey (see page 3 for details). Many people simply don't have the time to participate in live engagement activities. Online engagement platforms solve this issue by allowing access to tools virtually at any time.

In the words of my grandmother, “In Iroquois society, leaders are encouraged to remember seven generations in the past and consider seven generations in the future when making decisions that affect the people.” Highlands Council and the board of trustees greatly care about the community decisions we develop today, as well as for those tomorrow.

We are “Stronger Together.”

Best wishes for a better, brighter 2021!

- Kimberly Kapustein

President, Highlands Council Board of Trustees

Have a question for the Highlands Council Board of Trustees? Email hcbot@ihcouncil.org.

Visit issaquahhighlands.com/learn/highlands-council/highlands-council-board-of-trustees for more information.

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January 2021

Issaquah Highlands Connections

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

IHCA 2020/2021 Fiscal Mid-Year Recap

by Sarah Hoey IHCA Executive Director

Last year was all about changes; whether it was changes due to COVID-19, or moving the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) office to a new location.

Despite these changes, the IHCA remains fully committed to doing what is in the best interest of the community and actively planning for the future.

In February 2020, we moved our office from 1011 High Street to 2520 NE Park Drive, Suite B (across from Zeeks Pizza). The process of converting the former TCBY/Mrs. Fields space to an office space had its challenges but we love being in this new location. The most significant reason for the move was saving an average of $170,000/year on rent. We had been looking for a new space for years.

We ended the 2019/2020 fiscal year on June 30, 2020, with a $395,000 cash surplus. Our financial records were independently audited by Newman & Company C.P.A., which presented a clean audit report.

In the last six months, we renewed our insurance policies, updated our reserve studies, and began our 2021/2022 budget development process.

Proposed 2019/2020 Year-End Surplus Reallocation As the IHCA executive director, I made the following recommendations to the IHCA Finance Committee and Board of Directors for their consideration of the reallocation of the 2019/2020 $395,000 cash surplus. More details will be provided in Connections and on IssaquahHighlands.com as projects are scheduled and completed.

Note projects involving the city of Issaquah depend on city support to move forward.

Crosswalk beacons ($100,000) 

In conjunction with the city of Issaquah, the IHCA will pay for crosswalk beacons to be installed at trailhead crossing points across NE Park Drive, including at Firehouse Park and at Grand Ridge Elementary, at Trailhead Vista and Central Park.

Port Blakley final transition of CARC ($50,000)

The Custom Architectural Review Committee (CARC), currently managed by Heartland, via Port Blakely, the Issaquah Highlands master developer, will transition fully to the IHCA in Fall 2021. The IHCA requests funds for legal expenses to execute the renewal of relevant contracts, legal review of the transition process, and overview of all governing documents and architectural standards for Harrison Street, Grand Ridge Drive, and High Street Centers.

Purchase of power broom ($13,000)

The IHCA maintenance crew will use the power broom for sidewalk cleaning, dethatching turf, and snow/sand removal.

2020 was a year of change, including the IHCA's move to their new office on NE Park Drive.

Photo by Nina Milligan.

UPCOMING PROJECTS

Park Upgrades

Reserve fund projects will continue based on the availability of materials and labor. Our focus this coming spring will be park upgrades, including the Summit Park slides. Parks upgrades are at the top of our list over the next five years. Stay tuned for park updates.

Sidewalk repairs ($10,000)

Tree root work, in conjunction with the city of Issaquah.

Adult exercise circuit ($95,400)

For consideration in our community’s parks as we continue park equipment upgrades.

Give your feedback on this potential project in our 2021 IHCA survey, launching in April in Connections and on our digital media channels (see page 4 to follow).

Crosswalk repainting ($100,000)

The IHCA is responsible for the maintenance of secondary crosswalks with oversight by the city of Issaquah. The IHCA will hire a third party to restripe crosswalks to meet city specifications.

Pedestrian flag program ($6,600)

Program maintenance, including flag and stand additions and replacements.

Community garden improvements ($10,000)  New pea patch beds will be installed at Vista Gardens, updating beds from wooden to concrete block construction.

COMING SOON!

IHCA Mobile App Receive instant notifications from the IHCA on your mobile device. More information is coming soon. Picture provided is a sample mockup only and is subject to change.

Events and partnerships with Highlands Council ($10,000)

We look forward to partnering with Highlands Council on community events and programs after pandemic restrictions are lifted.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

January 2021

11

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

IHCA 2021/2022 Annual Budget Development Process is Underway The Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) and Finance Committee are preparing the IHCA 2021/2022 budget. The budget will be presented to the IHCA Board of Directors for approval in late February, published in April’s issue of Connections, and ratified at a scheduled community meeting in late April.

Finance Committee members are Issaquah Highlands homeowners who volunteer their time to serve on the

by Kristyn McKinnon IHCA Accounting Manager committee. Committee members are appointed by the IHCA board and work directly with IHCA staff to develop a budget recommendation to present to the board. With financial expertise, knowledge of the community and legal requirements, and a commitment to maintaining the communitywide standards, the budget is developed using a proactive group effort.

The Finance Committee reviews the funds needed for daily operation of the community, such as common electricity and irrigation water, grounds maintenance, management, insurance, and general maintenance. These expenses are either contractual or can be reasonably estimated based on past experience.

Once the budget is reviewed and approved by the Finance Committee, the committee presents the budget to the IHCA board for approval. After the board approves the budget, an open meeting is scheduled to publicly ratify it. In accordance with state law and the IHCA Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs), ratification is automatic unless 75% of all members (not just those in attendance) vote to reject the budget.

Prepared with this knowledge, the committee will estimate total expenses for the coming year and compare that sum to the IHCA’s potential revenue (assessments, interest on investments, and shared costs revenue). The committee will look for ways to lower expenses without compromising service, and address areas where operating efficiencies may be realized.

The Finance Committee must consider many factors when developing the community budget. These driving factors include: • Protecting the integrity of every homeowner’s investment within Issaquah Highlands.

• Maintaining the standard of care and safety of community property and common areas.

The Finance Committee also reviews the income needed to maintain the reserve fund at sufficient levels. Reserve funds provide money for the repair and replacement of the community’s assets, such as playground equipment, drainage infrastructure, and irrigation equipment.

The annual budget must also meet all federal, state, and county legal requirements regarding operating a nonprofit association and address any economical and operational challenges that may lie ahead.

Do you have questions about the IHCA budget development process? Email Kristyn.M@ihcommunity.org.

• Ensuring efficient planning for future community needs.

IHCA Thank You Notes We thank Ben Rush for his service on both the IHCA Board of Directors and the Architectural Review (ARC) Committee for nine years. Ben lived in Issaquah Highlands for 13 years. We wish him and his family all the best on their move.

We thank Sean Alexandar for his service on the ARC Committee and wish his family well in their move.

Welcome Bertan Aygun, recently appointed to the IHCA board to fill Ben Rush’s vacancy position. Bertan has served on the ARC Committee since 2016 and has lived in the community for eight years. He will serve in the At-Large position and as board liaison for the Finance Committee until June 30, 2021.

Thank you, Jennifer Regis. Jen is stepping down as chair of the ARC Committee but will remain a dedicated committee member. Current IHCA board member, Elizbeth Parker-Gregg, has accepted the position of new ARC chair.

Sanjay Mahajan recently joined the Finance Committee, in addition to serving on the ARC Committee. We thank him for his continued service to the community.

ARC TIP OF THE MONTH

Outdoor Fires Outdoor burning of trash, leaves, debris, or other materials is prohibited. Interior wood-burning stoves are also prohibited. Outdoor recreational fires are allowed only in professionally manufactured fire pits and cooking devices. Permanent, in-ground fire pits or similar installations require Issaquah Highlands Community Association Architectural Review Committee approval.

Find the application at issaquahhighlands.com/learn/ issaquah-highlands-community-association-ihca/ihcaarchitectural-guidelines-and-forms.

Small Steps to Be a More Prepared Homeowner in the New Year It's never too late to implement small steps to help you prepare for the inevitable surprises that go hand in hand with owning a home. Creating and sticking to a yearly maintenance schedule is an easy way to stay on top

by Debbie Orosco IHCA Community Manager of homeownership.

• Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every January and July. By sticking to this beginning and mid-year schedule, you will never forget the last time the batteries were changed.

• Replace incandescent bulbs with more efficient models.

Energy.gov states that switching to either CFLs or LEDs will save you the most on lighting costs.

• Service your home’s heating, ventilation, and airconditioning (HVAC) system annually. This service will extend the life of the unit and make it operate more efficiently.

• Clean your gutters twice a year; once in the spring and again in the fall after the leaves have fallen. If you can do it only once, do it in the fall so you can head off winter ice buildup that can break the gutter system.

• Fall is a great time of year to trim back overgrown vegetation. Any vegetation against your foundation can trap moisture and welcome pests. It is always advised to leave 12-18 inches between plants and your home.

• Remove moss from walkways, driveways, and stairs in the summer. The sun will help to dry built up moss for easier removal. These areas can become slippery when wet so removing visible moss before fall is ideal.

RULES REMINDERS

• Even frost-free spigots aren’t always resistant to freezing.

Insulate your outdoor faucets to keep them frost-proof during the cold winter months.

Holiday decorations may be neatly displayed and secured on the Unit during seasonal times. Winter holiday decorations and lighting (including light clips) may be displayed from October 1-January 15.

Holiday Decorations

LEARN MORE! These tips and rules reminders are only a subset of IHCA guidelines and regulations. For complete standards, visit our website, issaquahhighlands.com/ learn/issaquah-highlands-community-associationihca. Questions? Call the IHCA at (425) 427-9257.

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

Graphic produced by Katie Cannon, Highlands Council

Issaquah Highlands Connections

January 2021

13

HEALTH & FITNESS

Pandemic Fatigue and the Rise of COVID-19 Have you come across friends and family members who feel demotivated due to restrictions to control the spread of COVID-19? Have you noticed people not adhering or paying attention to social distancing and mask-wearing in public? Did you come across friends or families planning to attend or host a holiday dinner or party because they could not resist reuniting with loved ones? These are all signs of pandemic fatigue, a notable reason for the continued surge in COVID-19 infections across the world.

by Shafaq Babar University of Washington Master of Public Health Student and Crofton Springs Resident

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), pandemic fatigue develops over time in response to social, political, cultural, and economic factors in a community. As COVID-19 restrictions continue, people feel exhausted, and some people have stopped taking precautions the way they did in the early spring when the pandemic started.

Many people have lost their jobs due to lockdowns. Those still employed are either lucky to continue work from home or are essential workers. Some schools reopened in the fall but are again transitioning to online instruction, adding stress on children and parents. According to UCLA Health, social isolation, lack of recreational opportunities, financial hardships, and continued fear of a prolonged pandemic has increased anxiety, loneliness, and depression — symptoms of pandemic fatigue.

Pandemic fatigue can also cause pandemic denial, which results from medical misinformation, scientific skepticism, the tendency for conspiracy theories, or a defense mechanism against COVID-19 anxiety. Misinformation on the nature of the disease has unleashed tons of home remedies for COVID-19.

Pandemic denial is particularly dangerous since it undermines the severity of the situation, resulting in faltering disease control and the spread of infections. It boosts “pandemic anger,” and people getting upset over mandated mask-wearing and social distancing measures, believing that it impinges their civil liberties.

Today, as the death toll continues to rise and stricter restrictions are enforced, people anxiously wait to receive a vaccine. Until that becomes a reality, we must try to combat pandemic fatigue using some simple strategies, as recommended by UCLA Health: • Take care of your body by getting enough sleep and eating nutritious food.

• Limit news consumption to reduce stress.

• Lower stress by exercising, taking nature walks, reading, meditating, or listening to music.

• Connect with friends and family online, on the phone, and through letters and cards.

• Use positive self-talk to replace negative thoughts.

• Create new traditions (like a picnic in the backyard), start a self-care routine, or learn a new skill.

• Acknowledge your feelings and connect with a healthcare provider if emotional health gets in the way of your daily activities.

The Issaquah Highlands community provides excellent solo and family recreational opportunities. Walk, hike, or bike on any of the numerous trails or take a trip to a local park.

You can also participate in the community’s virtual activities from the comfort of your home.

Pandemic fatigue is real, but don’t let it get the best of you. Do not lower your guard and do continue listening to the advice of the public health authorities.

Editor’s Note: This piece was submitted to Connections as an op-ed. Opinions expressed in this piece are solely those of the author.

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January 2021

Issaquah Highlands Connections

MARTIN LUTH R

KING

J R

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS DOERS AND DREAMERS

DAY OF SERVICE Love Where You Live

Take 15 Minutes Each Month to Serve Your Community

Dr. King Children's Book by County Councilmember Donated to Community's Little Free Libraries King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert represents Issaquah Highlands as part of District 3.

She is a former teacher and authored a children’s book about the life of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. While the book is out of print, I was able to track down five copies for her to sign before donating them to the community. On January 18, these signed biographies will be added to four of our Little Free Libraries and to our Blakely Hall cultural library for all to enjoy. Thank you, Kathy, for your contribution to our history and community.

As part of our Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.-inspired “Issaquah Highlands Doers and Dreamers Day of Service," join the Issaquah Highlands Cross-Cultural Committee in setting aside 15 minutes each month this year to help keep our community beautiful. It all kicks off on Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, January 18, and will continue once a month, taking place the last Monday of each month.

by Joseph Bone-Mazak HY Board Member, high school freshman, and Dahlia Park resident

Dr. King continues to inspire us to dream of a brighter future.

Many of us have dreams, but some people may feel their dreams can’t be achieved due to a particular struggle or conflict that stands in the way. Each person deserves to dream, and each person should have the resources to make their dreams come true. While the recent events of the COVID-19 pandemic brought discomfort and sadness, and the loss of many lives, including those of close family members, it is important not to give up hope.

The process of rebuilding what was lost must start at some point, and that time is now. We can use these experiences to better our choices and to make stronger ones now and in the future.

Whether you choose to pick up trash, plant flowers, or find another way to love where we live, I invite you to join me this year on each monthly Issaquah Highlands Doers and Dreamers Day of Service and influence the world around us with small steps that can have a big impact.

While we were discussing Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the October Issaquah Highlands Cross-Cultural Committee meeting, committee member Kimberly Kapustein shared a South African program she’d learned about called “Love Where You Live.”

Once a month, people of the community come together to clean up litter and “leave a trail of happiness behind” in public areas. Our committee loved this concept. Since it would be difficult to plan a large service project on Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service this year, we felt a program like “Love Where You Live” would be an easy way for Issaquah Highlands residents to serve individually or as a family, while making a big impact on the neighborhood. From there, the Issaquah Highlands Doers and Dreamers Day of Service was formed.

– Lindsey Pinkston, Community Program Manager, Highlands Council and Wisteria Park Resident

King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert, pictured with her book on Dr. King. Photo by Kathy Lambert.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was in the news as I grew up. He was a friendly man with courage and conviction and faith.

Those are qualities I admire.

When I was a schoolteacher, the state dedicated his birthday as a holiday, and teachers were told to add information about Dr. King’s life to our curriculum.

I searched and searched; there was not a lot of information at the elementary level and what was there did not showcase his personality and values.

I had always wanted to write a book but never got beyond writing down ideas.

I talked to my friend’s publisher about writing a children’s book on Dr. King. It took me about nine months to write the book, then after editing, proofing, and binding, I eventually got a box in the mail with 10 copies of the book, titled “Martin Luther King, Jr.: Civil Rights Leader,” with my name on the cover. I could call myself an author. It was very exciting.

– Kimberly Kaputstein, President, Highlands Council Board of Trustees, and Dahlia Park Resident I donated a set of books to my school library and taught from the book to my fifth-grade students. My students could not believe I wrote the book and our class had a long talk about how people can have many different talents you might not know about; that is part of the fun of getting to know someone better.

One of my favorite quotes from Dr. King is, “All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.”

His words are so true; taking pride in and doing our best in all we do is so important.

This year think about how you can do your best in recognizing and helping the needs in your own community. It will be worth it.

– Kathy Lambert, King County Councilmember and Author

Issaquah Highlands Connections

January 2021

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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS

Community Groups  Book Club

Third Tuesdays, 7 p.m.

The book club is a great place to meet neighbors, socialize, and explore a variety of books. Get the book list at issaquahhighlands.com/events or join the Facebook group at facebook.com/ihbookclub.

 IH Business Networking Group Join other small business owners for a new spin on the standard practice of networking, based on knowing the more we connect and share, the more we all grow! This group is inclusive, connection-based, and valuable to all members. No obligations, just genuine connections!

Monthly Meeting First Mondays, 9:30 a.m.

Virtual Happy Hour Third Tuesdays, 4 p.m.

Issaquah Highlands Hiking Group

The Issaquah Highlands Hiking Group is open to all ages to connect with other hiking enthusiasts and go on planned hikes in the beautiful Northwest. For more information and details on our next scheduled hike, join our Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/nwhiking.

 Meditation Group

Fridays, 2 p.m. (No meeting January 1)

Discover how to find moments to relax the mind. The group practice exercises that promote balance, strength, and calmness. Learn techniques to help deal with the stress and strain of a busy life. Free to attend and open to all! Questions? Contact ih.meditation@gmail.com.

Mountain Biking Group

The Issaquah Highlands Mountain Biking Group is open to all ages to meet other mountain bike enthusiasts while exploring some of the amazing local mountain bike trails! For more information and details on all planned rides, join us on Facebook at “Issaquah Highlands Mountain Biking Club.”

 Photography Group Third Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.

Enjoy monthly meetings with guest speakers, share and discuss your work with others, and participate in an online community throughout the month.

Contact ihpc@outlook.com.

 Work Rock from Home Group

Join a support group of neighbors full of ideas, resources, and tips to help you “rock” at working from home! We will share positive vibes and ideas about how to balance life/work at home, avoid loneliness, and stay motivated. Join us on Facebook and for monthly webinars on relevant topics at facebook.com/groups/ rockfromhome.

 Toastmasters Thursdays, 7 a.m.

Say it better with Toastmasters. Share your interests and goals in a positive, supportive environment. Let us help you expand your knowledge and horizons. Guests are welcome to join a meeting to see what it’s about – it’s one hour of fun, and you won’t be put on the spot!

Learn more at ihtm.toastmastersclubs.org.

 Yarns & Threads Group Fridays, 10 a.m.

All knitters, crocheters, and stitchers are welcome. For more details or questions, please contact Cathie Coulter at catherine.coulter@ihmail.com.

 Indicates this group/event occurs online.

All events are FREE unless otherwise noted.

Get Involved Neighbor to Neighbor Services Directory

Join our directory to connect neighbors in need with neighbors looking to help. Learn more at issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer.

 Cross-Cultural Committee Wednesday, February 3, 7 p.m.

Anyone who has a passion for celebrating the diverse cultures that makeup Issaquah Highlands is invited to join our cross-cultural committee. We’ll come together to learn from each other and to help shape the direction of Highlands Council going forward. Contact Lindsey at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org or visit issaquahhighlands.com/ volunteer to learn more.

Flag Volunteers

The IHCA and Highlands Council are looking for volunteers to help manage the two American flags in the community – one at the Village Green by Blakely Hall, and one on 10th Ave. near Vista Park. Responsibilities include raising and lowering flags on holidays, and when designated by the city, state, or federal government.

Training provided. Please visit issaquahhighlands.com/ volunteer or email lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org if interested.

Architectural Review Committee

The Issaquah Highlands Community Association ARC Committee seeks volunteers to fill open positions.

Contact Blair Krieg at blair.k@ihcommunity.org to learn more or begin the application process.

For more ways to get involved, please visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer.

Governance Mtgs  IHCA Architectural Review Committee First Tuesdays, 6 p.m.

Highlands Council Board of Trustees

First Tuesdays, 12 p.m. (No January meeting)

IHCA Finance Committee Second Tuesdays, 4:30 p.m.

Highlands Fiber Network Advisory Group Third Mondays, 5 p.m.

IHCA Board of Directors Fourth Mondays, 5:30 p.m.

Don't Miss This Curbside Tree Pick Up Saturday, January 2, 8 a.m.

Issaquah Highlands

Let the Boy Scouts recycle your Christmas tree! Place your tree and donation curbside by 8 a.m. on January 2, cleaned of tinsel, nails, or flocking. Please visit scouttreedrive.org for more information and suggested donations. Remember that Christmas trees may not be left out on garbage day or dumped in our wooded areas!

"See the Dragonflies"

Art Workshops

Join us for family-friendly virtual art workshops to create three-dimensional dragonflies! We hope you’ll make a dragonfly to contribute to the community art piece at Blakely Hall, as well as one for yourself!

Workshops are free thanks to Swedish Issaquah and the Issaquah Arts Commission. Visitissaquahhighlands.com/ events for more information and registration.

Cardboard Dragonflies Saturday, January 16, 10:30 a.m.

Make beautiful dragonflies out of recycled materials with Issaquah Highlands resident and eco-artist Aline Bloch! Gather your supplies in advance, then join the Zoom call to make a dragonfly step-by-step.

Wire Dragonflies Saturday, January 23, 10:30 a.m.

Art teacher Angela Bizzari of Epic Art will guide you step-by-step to make a beautiful wire dragonfly, inspired by the work of American sculptor, Alexander Calder.

Free kits with all the supplies you need will be available for pick up at Blakely Hall prior to the event, and the project has modifications for all ages!

IH Doers & Dreamers Day of Service

Monday, January 18, then last Mondays

Small steps can have a big impact! Inspired by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we hope you’ll join the IH CrossCultural Committee in taking 15 minutes each month to help keep our community beautiful. Learn more about this new program on page 14.

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

HIGHLANDS YOUTH - HY

Dear Sophia, A Letter to My Future Self I bet a lot has happened between now and the year 2040. You’re 36 years old now, whoa! That year seems so far away to me now, but I’m sure I’ll meet you sooner than I think. I wonder so much about you sometimes, and I hope you remember me well. My life

by Sophia Hashmey has been so peaceful lately, I HY Board Member, wonder how that might have Issaquah High School Junior changed for me later. and Park Drive Resident Do you remember when quarantine had us all locked up and playing video games like “Among Us” and “Minecraft”?

It’s been fun having time to play so many video games.

Remember when all your friends were forced to be on little square screens dotted around your laptop or phone? I still find it funny to think I made more friends through the internet in the past few months than in the real world. Do you remember going to school online? You decided to participate in the Running Start program and didn’t get to meet any of the college kids or professors in-person.

Did you ever live in that apartment you imagined, surrounded by all your favorite plants? Did you name them? Water them?

Give them all your love? Decorate your entire house with them? I didn’t make that Pinterest board filled with plants for nothing, you know.

Did you ever get a dog? Perhaps a Samoyed or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Did you find a partner, or did you decide to live solo? Are you still working on a video game design that’ll blow away all the other video game developers? I hope it’s filled with beautiful art and code and played by everyone.

Highlands Youth Advisory Board (HY) members were asked to write letters to their future selves, reflecting on how their lives have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This series of articles, one published each month, will enter into the Issaquah History Museums collections to be preserved for generations of youth to come.

How many countries have you visited? I want to learn so many languages so one day I can meet even more people and learn about all the cultures and places I can. Mark Twain said, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime.”

I hope you went out there and achieved all the dreams you wished back in 2020.

Mama wants to know if you’re still a drama queen.

She hopes you grew out of that. Are you still an extrovert that speaks a bit more than she would like to, or have you become wiser, quieter, and more perceptive? I hope you didn’t give up any of your passions. There are so many ways to occupy your time. I hope you’re still in touch with all of your friends and have met many new people.

I wonder if the world isn’t as divided in 2040 as it is today. How much has the world improved since 2020? I can’t imagine how Generation Z will handle the pressures of adulthood. I hope more people have access to education. I wonder if people are living more sustainably. Are the people around you more empathetic? Does the news of the day make you smile? There are so many things that could happen in 20 years.

Are you happy in the world you built for yourself?

I hope you are because I’m counting on you.

Sophia (bottom center) met a number of new friends online during the pandemic, pictured here when they masked up and met in person for the first time in Seattle, October 2020.

Congratulations

Congratulations

Austin Zimmerman

Claire White

Eagle Scout Award

It's a Girl!

Austin Zimmerman received the Eagle Scout Award. With the help of dozens of volunteers, Austin spent the past year planning his Eagle project, building four custom portable cedar gardens for residents at Acres of Diamonds. Austin, a graduate of Issaquah High School, is currently a freshman at Central Washington University, studying business finance.

We are excited to announce the newest addition to our family, Claire "Coco" Lynn White. Coco was born on October 29, 2020, at Swedish Issaquah. She was welcomed by her overjoyed parents, James and Lynn, her newly-promoted-to-big-sister Lissie, and her feline sisters, Lucy and Molly. Our hearts are full of love for our littlest family member.

Submitted by Renee and Eric Zimmerman

Submitted by Lynn and James White

Issaquah Highlands Connections

January 2021

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JANUARY VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

Yang Lee IHCA ARC Committee My family and I have enjoyed living in Issaquah Highlands since November 2003. We moved here fairly early in the development of Issaquah Highlands and looked forward to seeing the master plan and vision come to fruition.

Over the years, we watched our community grow and mature. Not only do we enjoy all the amenities of our community, including various parks, trails, and businesses, we have met many friends and neighbors over the years. My 5-year-old son, Mason, especially enjoys the give-and-take nature of the community’s Little Free Libraries.

What defines a community is the people who live in it. I love the diversity in our community. I believe diversity gives our community a richer culture and makes it a much more interesting place to live and raise a family.

I have volunteered on the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) Architectural Review Committee (ARC) for the past seven years and enjoy helping our community look it's best. I've worked with home builders for 16 years, so the ARC Committee was a natural fit for me when I started looking to get more involved in our community. As a volunteer on the ARC Committee, you can see firsthand the diversity of opinions and minds in our community. Our committee members work together to maintain consistent standards and expectations to keep our community looking its best for many years to come (being flexible when possible).

Volunteering is a great way to get involved in our community. Volunteering is fun and rewarding and allows you to be an active member of our great community. I encourage you to give a few hours of your time, get involved, and meet some great neighbors.

Yang (left) with her son, Mason, and husband, James, and Mickey Mouse.

What defines a community is the people who live in it. I

love the diversity in our community. I believe diversity gives our community a richer culture and makes it a much more interesting place to live and raise a family.

Are you inspired to get involved in the Issaquah Highlands community? Opportunities are available!

Visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer to discover all the different ways you can get involved in our Issaquah Highlands community, including opportunities to join boards and committees, as well as urgent needs at local nonprofits.

Questions? Contact Lindsey Pinkston, Highlands Council Program Manager, at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org.

NEW! Open positions available on the Architectural Review Committee (ARC) The Issaquah Highlands Community Association ARC Committee seeks volunteers to fill open positions. Contact Blair Krieg at blair.k@ihcommunity.org to learn more or begin the application process.

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January 2021

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS RESIDENTS DESERVE AN ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS EXPERT. ISSAQUA H H I G HL A N DS N U MBE RS • 1 2 .2020 Residential

Con dom i n i u m

M e d ian P r ic e

$915,000

+1 0 . 2 %

$668,5 00

+8.3%

Clo s e d S ale s

139

-16.8%

92

-9.8%

Da ys o n M ar k e t

5

-58.3%

13

-31.6%

% o f L is t / S ale

100.5%

+1.2%

100%

0.0%

M e d ian P P S F

$410

+7. 9 %

$401

+4.7%

Interested in finding out the value of your home? Get in touch today:

GEOFF WALKER • BROKER M: 425.785.7997 • O: 425.243.9000 GEOFF.WALKER@SOTHEBYSREALTY.COM Sotheby's International Realtf and the Sotheby's International Realty Logo are service marks licensed to Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC and used with permission. Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated. Any services or products provided by independently owned and operated franchisees are not provided by, affiliated with or related to Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC nor any of its affIlIated companies If your property 1s listed with a real estate broker. please disregard. It Is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

January 2021

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DOING BUSINESS

Congratulations, Discovery West!

Nominated for 2021 Washington Multi-Family Housing Association Emerald Awards

by David Beschen Discovery West Resident

In October, Discovery West, an apartment community located near Swedish Issaquah in Issaquah Highlands, was nominated for two 2021 Washington MultiFamily Housing Association (WMFHA) Emerald Awards.

The WMFHA Emerald Awards acknowledge the excellent work done by professionals working at rental properties throughout the state.

Discovery West was nominated in two categories: Community Manager of the Year (151-300 units) Joe Bonilla, Discovery West – HNN Communities Community of the Year (151+ units) Discovery West – HNN Communities Discovery West has 209 residential units and just over 400 residents. Joe Bonilla, community manager, has been with HNN Communities, Discovery West’s management company, for seven years and has been community manager at Discovery West since September 2019. He is responsible for leasing and marketing the property, managing vendors and employees, developing a sense of community among residents, and, as of last year, helping protect the health and well-being of the Discovery West community.

Pandemic restrictions created a lot of new demands for our personal housing. Not only is where we live our shelter, it’s now also our gym, school, restaurant, theater, art studio, and a myriad of other functions all taking place under the same roof. Joe believes it was his team’s response to the pandemic that earned Discovery West its recent Emerald Award nominations.

“Our amazing teams were dedicated to keeping the community safe and the appearance well-maintained,” Joe said. “Due to the shutdown, this was more difficult, but it was also much more important. The more people were kept at home, the more maintenance was desired and required, but the less resources were available. It demanded that we tightly focus those resources.”

Being able to help so many people with different circumstances involving something as important as their home is the most rewarding part of Joe’s position as a community manager.

The challenges of the pandemic may have made things more difficult, but as a five-year resident of Discovery West, I can attest that Joe and the Discovery West staff have succeeded in keeping up appearance standards while protecting employees and residents with responsible practices and diligent attention to detail. There should be an award for that (and turns out, there is).

Joe Bonilla, third from right, and his team receive recognition for their WMFHA Emerald Award nominations in a ceremony put on by parent company, HNN Communities. Photo provided by Joe Bonilla.

(Left) The Discovery West apartment community is located on 8th Avenue NE next to Swedish Hospital. (Top) Joe Bonilla, Discovery West Community Manager. Both Joe and the Discovery West community were nominated for 2021 Washington Multi-Family Housing Association Emerald Awards. Photos provided

by Joe Bonilla.

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January 2021

Issaquah Highlands Connections

in SNOQUALMIE RIDGE! Registration for Learn to Skate Series is OPEN!! Starts January 4th

WINTER LEARN TO SKATE SERIES For Ages 3 - Adult

6 Weeks series for figure skating and hockey is $210

Learn to Skate classes include:

-30 minutes of instruction -15 minutes of supervised practice -Ratio 5 skaters per one instructor MONDAY SERIES Starts Jan 4th - Feb 8th Starts Feb 22nd- March 29th Class Start Time Options: 4:45pm 5:45pm 6:45pm TUESDAY SERIES Starts Jan 5th - Feb 9th Starts Feb 23rd - March 30th Class Start Time Options: 5:15pm WEDNESDAY SERIES Starts Jan 6th - Feb 10th Starts Feb 24th - March 31st Class Start Time Options: 2:45pm 4:45pm 5:45pm 6:45pm THURSDAY SERIES Starts Jan 7th - Feb 11th Starts Feb 25th - April 1st Class Start Time Options: 5:15pm SATURDAY SERIES Starts Jan 9th Starts Feb 27th - April 3rd Class Start Times Options : 9:30am 10:30am 11:30am

Intro to Private Lessons Lesson Skating Package

$75 with Learn to Skate Registration $105 without a Learn to Skate Registration

includes: 3 hours of ice, free skate rental and 3 - 15 minute one to one lessons

MID WINTER BREAK

February 15th to 19th

Blizzard Blitz Recreational Skating Camp Half Day 9am to 1pm $425 Full Day 9am to 3pm $485 Performance at the end of the week

SPRING BREAK April 5th to 9th

Spring Fling Recreational Skating Camp Half Day 9am to 1pm $425 Full Day 9am to 3pm $485 Performance at the end of the week

WINTER HOCKEY SERIES LEARN-TO-HOCKEY-SKATE 1-4 The hockey curriculum is designed to teach the beginner the basic principles of hockey skating .

Within these levels, skaters will learn the fundamentals, maneuver faster , develop edge work and increase agility . All elements will be taught without a puck. These are the necessary building blocks to be successful in game situations.

SUNDAY SERIES:

Starts January 10th to Feb 14th Starts February 21st-March 28th Class Start Time Options: 8am & 9am Questions? Email: tina@snokingsnoqualmie.com

Issaquah Highlands Connections

January 2021

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SCHOOL SPOTLiGHT | January Issaquah School District

January Dates

issaquah.wednet.edu

written and produced by Tracie Jones, Wisteria Park Resident

4 12 14 18 18-22 20

School Resumes ISD Reflections Reception School Board Meeting Martin Luther King Jr. Day, No School High School Finals Week ParentWiser Workshop

25

Teacher Work Day, No School

26

Second Semester Begins (High School)

28

School Board Meeting

28

Eighth Grade Transition Night (New to U.S.)

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Power Packs PLUS

Power Packs PLUS provides about a week's worth of kidfriendly breakfast, lunch, and snack items to any child or student in the Issaquah Food and Clothing Bank’s service area. Power Packs PLUS may be picked up anytime food services are open, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., at 179 1st Ave SE, Issaquah. No registration is necessary. Questions, call (425) 392-4123.

Eighth Grade Transition Night for Families New to the U.S.

Join ISD’s Cultural and Family Partnerships team for a Zoom discussion on January 28, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Topics include high school credits, how credits are earned each year, graduation requirements, and college applications.

Other topics include possible high school opportunities, and state and college testing information. District staff will be available to answer questions. Register to receive the Zoom link, visit Issaquah.wednet.edu/family/culturaland-family-partnerships/events.

ParentWiser: Managing Stress, Anxiety, and Parenting

On January 20, Dr. Lisa Damour will explain the key to understanding how stress and anxiety operate. She’ll instruct how to keep pressure and tension from reaching toxic levels, how to support students in managing personal stress and anxiety, and provide strategies for managing ongoing tension. For registration, Zoom link, and information, visit ParentWiser.org.

Grand Ridge Elementary Community Book Discussion

You’re invited to share perspectives on race and equality with the Grand Ridge Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA). Read “What If I Say The Wrong Thing? 25 Habits for Culturally Effective People,” and join Zoom discussions in January and February to discuss a handful of “habits” each week. Email GRPTSAOutreachDirector@gmail.com to sign up. Next session: January 11, 7 p.m. For additional dates and times, visit GrandRidgePTSA.membershiptoolkit.com.

Bright Ideas and Volunteering Opportunities at IMS

Have a bright idea to help keep our Issaquah Middle School (IMS) Panther families connected during remote learning? IMS PTSA needs your help facilitating fun activities through virtual events. We’d love to hear from our families and hope everyone gets involved to make this the best year yet. Interested? Contact Erin and Wendy at president@issaquahmiddleptsa.org.

Join the Gibson Ek High School Class of 2025 Gibson Ek High School opened the application process for current Issaquah School District (ISD) eighth grade students, the class of 2025. Application submissions close mid-February 2021. For dates, events, and information, visit Issaquah.wednet.edu/GibsonEkhs.

Mid Trimester II (Elementary/Middle School)

Clark Elementary Angel Program Support

Clark Elementary School Angel Program provides a helping hand to other Clark families in need. We’re also looking for Angels to help support the program. This confidential program aims to help students needing extra support with basic necessities, including anonymous sponsors and students. To sign up as a donor or if you need a little extra assistance, email OtleyC@issaquah. wednet.edu.

Online Learning Program Accepting Applications

High school or middle school students interested in taking self-directed online learning courses, within or in addition to your schedule, may register before January 27. Students can take one or two semester courses each term, with a maximum of eight semester-long classes (four credits) during their high school career.

For more information, visit Issaquah.wednet.edu, under “Academics”.

Washington OSPI Testing

Washington students take state and federal tests regularly to assess academic progress. The 2020-21 Washington OSPI testing window will look a bit different this year. For more information, detailed descriptions of all tests, and window timelines, visit K12.wa.us, under “Student Success”.

Don't Forget to Purchase Your 2020/2021 Yearbooks

Yearbooks are now on sale at most Issaquah School District schools.

Remember to order yours before sales close. Payment is required at the time of purchase. Angel assistance is available. In addition, schools are looking for additional photos to supplement yearbook pages, preserving memories of our remote learning experiences for years to come.

Questions? Contact your local Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) or your school’s front office.

Minal Desai-Monga's daughters, Vista Park residents, show off last year's yearbooks. Photo by Minal Desai-Monga.

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

January 2021

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LIVING GREEN®

How to Go Green for a Big Impact Ten Simple Ways to Do Your Part Every day is an opportunity to make greener decisions, helping to reduce pollution, climate warming, and waste. Here are 10 simple acts and easy ways to do your part in 2021.

by Aline Bloch Owner of Aline’s Cardboard and Central Park Resident

Stop buying plastic water bottles

If you can only pick one action for the entire year, pick this one. It is the easiest way to reduce huge amounts of plastic pollution in our oceans and help to save marine life. Get a reusable bottle for everyone in the family. Use a water filter pitcher, faucet-mounted filter, or a charcoal stick that will naturally purify your water.

Takeout "smart"

Say “no” to napkins, utensils, and unwanted condiments when your order takeout. If you plan to eat your takeout at home or at work, you can likely find a fork and napkin somewhere there.

Reuse takeout containers.

Walk instead of drive

Walk or ride your bike for distances less than two miles. This will help reduce your carbon footprint, you will enjoy the sunshine (or the rain), and you will get exercise.

Save water and energy

Switch to LED light bulbs and only run your dishwasher when it is full. Take shorter showers. Turn off your laptop and TV every night.

Choose reusable vs. disposable

Create a grocery kit with tote bags and produce bags for fresh veggies. You will prevent hundreds of plastic bags from going to waste.

Compost and recycle

Go online and learn how to recycle properly. Don’t forget to clean and dry your recyclables before putting them in your blue bin.

Watch an environmental documentary

Grab some popcorn and educate yourself about environmental issues. Teach the next generation to be kinder to the planet.

Think before you buy

Impulse shopping only makes you feel better for a minute. Buy less, buy better, and make it last. Ask yourself questions before you buy something, like, “Do I already have something similar at home? How many times will I use it? Can I borrow it? Do I really need it?” Adopt the “one in, one out” rule to avoid clutter.

Eat mindfully

Choose local, organic, and go with the flow. Eating with the seasons will boost the local economy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Try meatless Mondays and choose fresh veggies vs. precut veggies in plastic packaging. Plan your meals to prevent food waste.

Write down why it is important to go “greener”

Make it a family activity. Why is it important for you to live a greener lifestyle? What can you do today to take the first step? How can you make it a new habit? What are the benefits for you, your family, and your community?

Believe me, this works!

I saw positive changes in my family. In over two years of living green, we changed one thing at a time, developed new habits, made progress, and influenced our entourage. We see it every day in our trash cans, our consumption, our health, our skin, our moods, and in our bank account.

Act now. Pick one step. Make a difference.

Photo by Aline Bloch

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

ASK KARI

Ask Kari!

by Kari O’Neill, MSW, LICSW Clinical Social Worker; Owner of Issaquah Highlands Counseling Group, and Issaquah Highlands Resident

Dear Kari, Oh, my goodness! We had a small holiday gathering with my parents, and politics came up in conversation. After we disagreed with his feelings around the recent election, my father became so upset he got up and left the house before dessert. He has never reacted so poorly.

He has not spoken to me since. What should I do to help remedy the situation?

– Holiday Blow-Up Disaster Dear Holiday Blow-Up Disaster, Unfortunately, I doubt your family situation is unique for our times. We have been through so much during the past year; many people are worn out and reacting poorly to situations they used to be able to let go. I recommend calling your father and setting up a time to talk.

If possible, do it safely in person or via Facetime/Skype, since being able to see each other’s body language is important for reconciliation (verbal and physical cues help us to be empathic towards others). Share your desire to move forward from the dinner and accept you both have feelings about the event, but your relationship is more important than words said in the past.

Agree to disagree. Say “sorry” to each other and that you love each other deeply, then move forward, agreeing to keep politics a taboo topic. It is OK for us to not talk about politics, money, and religion with friends and family if it leads to heated debates that go nowhere – that’s called good decision making. Good luck!

– Kari

Dear Kari, My daughter recently got engaged. She met her fiancé online two months ago. I am very concerned she is jumping way too fast into marriage. She has had only 10 dates with her fiancé, yet they plan to get married on Valentine’s Day this year. How can I help her see rushing into a legal marriage is not a good decision, and she should wait until she gets to know her fiancé better?

– Afraid of a Big Regret Dear Afraid of a Big Regret, I agree with you; 10 dates is a short time period for a couple to get engaged. I am more concerned about the wedding occurring so soon this year. I suggest you talk with your daughter and offer support of the relationship while gently encouraging her to allow more time to develop a stronger bond within the relationship, modeling that doing so will only help the relationship in the long run. I also suggest you give them the book “Eight Dates,” by John and Julie Gottman; it can offer your daughter and her fiancé a quick guide to exploring each other’s personalities and belief systems, which are important to know before committing to each other legally.

– Kari

I love to hear from our readers!

Email your "Ask Kari" questions to kari@ihcg.co. All questions will be answered in upcoming columns.

Kari O’Neill, MSW, LICSW, is a licensed independent clinical social worker and Issaquah Highlands resident. She is the longest-running volunteer Connections writer, celebrating nine years of "Ask Kari" in 2021.

This column is for entertainment purposes only.

If you are in crisis and in need of support, please contact the Crisis Clinic at (866) 427-4747.

IH BY THE NUMBERS

What Small Steps Will You Take for a Happier, Healthier Year?

After surveying community members through the Issaquah Highlands Facebook group, here are the top 10 small daily actions community members hope to take in 2021 to lead to a happier, healthier year.

Getting more active is high on Issaquah Highlands community members to-do lists as gyms have been closed or highly restricted this year. This adds an extra layer of difficulty in staying fit that we hopefully can overcome one neighborhood walk or fitness class zoom call at a time.

The goal of reducing sugar intake is not uncommon in the winter after the holiday season, so it's no surprise that more than half of community members surveyed have that goal this year. The goal of better financial tracking just squeezes its way into the top five goals for Issaquah Highlands community members, as I suspect shopping therapy and the ease of online shopping have skewed past budgets.

Content and graphics by Ella Turlington Concord Commons Resident

Small Actions. Big results.

90%

65%

60%

25%

20%

Get Active for 30 minutes

Drink an extra glass of water

Reduce sugar intake

read at least 10 pages

Track all Finances

20%

15%

15%

10%

10%

write in grateful journal

wake up an hour earlier

reduce social media usage

Make Your Bed Everyday

Stop consuming news

Wishing everyone the best of luck in taking small steps this year for a happier, healthier you!

Editor's Note: The numbers presented are collected by the author and are reviewed but not verified by Highlands Council. Opinions expressed are solely those of the author.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

January 2021

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HOME ORGANIZATION

This Year, Make Organization a Habit How to Start Small for a Lasting Impact Happy New Year! Typically, this is the time of year when we set new goals and resolutions.

While I don’t think this is a bad thing, I do think we need to give ourselves grace. The past year was rough. Now is not the time to pile even more on our shoulders; it’s the time to set

by Johnna Masterson small, attainable goals that will Owner of Inspired be easier to put into practice. and Organized Small habits can become and Central Park Resident second nature, but huge, lofty resolutions can sometimes lead to disappointment. Let’s take small steps together, and with every success, we will build back better and stronger and more motivated to keep going.

I bet spaces feel a little fuller in your house this month, after the holidays. Instead of making a huge goal to organize your whole house, start with this small task: gather your family or housemates together and set a timer for 15 minutes. Have each member of your household run to an area that needs a little love. On super speed, have everyone get as much done in their area as they can before the timer goes off. Then treat everyone with sundaes or a movie night. You will find a lot gets accomplished in a short burst of time, and everyone will want to do it again ASAP (because, ice cream).

Here is another easy way to cut through the clutter plaguing our homes: create baskets to hold all the papers and miscellaneous items that like to take over flat surfaces. Put one basket at the bottom of your stairs for things that need to be put away upstairs. Put one on the counter to hold paperwork and bills. Even put one in the laundry room to

catch things coming from pockets, the dryer, or those rogue socks searching for their mate. Instead of saying you’ll commit to emptying the baskets every day, say you’ll do it when they are full.

I am also working on creating a morning and evening routine. I have been notoriously bad at this, but I have seen a huge difference in my life since I started. I sleep better, have fewer worries, and feel more organized. Use this time not only to recharge your batteries but to set small goals for each day.

In the morning, after you drink some water, meditate, or even say a few positive affirmations, jot down a daily list of three things you hope to accomplish, double-check your calendar, and read or prioritize your emails. This routine really sets the tone for your day. At night, after you read your book, drink more water (I know, I know, thanks, mom), and spend some time winding down from the day, open the photo app on your phone. Take 5-10 minutes to delete the extra, unwanted photos from the day.

This task will help you start the task of downsizing the thousands of photos taking up space. Just start with today.

Instead of taking on everything all at once, try starting right where you are, with what you have. We cannot carry everything, we cannot do everything, but we can take small steps in the right direction. I look forward to walking right alongside you.

Set the right tone for your day with a morning routine, including writing a daily list of three things you want to accomplish.

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

SMART HOME

Get Tech-Savvier in 2021 with Highlands Fiber Network

by Jeremy Fallt HFN General Manager and Black Nugget Park Resident

Your Highlands Fiber Network (HFN) home internet connection can be used for more than just accessing the internet. HFN fiber internet has fast, reliable speeds to provide seamless connections, allowing you to work, learn, stream, and play using the new technology of today and tomorrow. Find out how you can make the most of your HFN fiber internet connection to improve your daily life and have a tech-savvier year ahead.

t, asco m FN ke ike H , and ta ur l e B yo ert Owlb ntage of ernet adva fiber int ake life HFN ion to m ient! ect ven conn ore con m

Home Automation

Home automation, also known as smart home automation, is said to make your life easier by allowing you to live your day-to-day life without mundane interruptions or activities.

Home automation devices can take care of everyday tasks, like controlling and setting your thermostat, creating a grocery list, and reminding you about upcoming events. There are home automation products on the market today that cater to most, if not all, areas of your home and are designed to offer convenience, including products related to entertainment and communications, personal assistance, lighting, security, and home health.

Telecommuting

Many of us experienced telecommuting last year, continuing into 2021. Working from home in Issaquah Highlands is easy and reliable with plenty of bandwidth to easily share large files and work while other people in your home use the same connection. Using multiple devices is no problem.

Optimize your telecommuting environment by making sure your workspace is set up ergonomically and you have all the tools you need. A selfie light can work wonders to brighten your Zoom meetings.

Learning

Your HFN fiber internet connection gives you fast, symmetrical speeds and plenty of bandwidth to make online learning easy. Online learning is not just for kids; go ahead and take an online class that piques your interest, or brush up on your skills by taking a new course.

Accessing Telemedicine

Highspeed fiber internet connections allow healthcare professionals to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients using telecommunications technology. See your doctor or visit urgent care from the convenience and comfort of your home. Check with your doctor and insurance for details.

Watching

Stream your favorite TV shows or movies anytime. You can even “cut the cord” with your cable TV provider and use streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Netflix, YouTube, and others. Cutting the cord will save you money, won’t lock you into a contract, and won’t have you pay for channels you don’t watch. Streaming services give you the right combination of convenience, choice, and price.

Playing

Online gaming is a fun way to connect with family and friends while staying home. Create some healthy competition in the new year, or just spend some (virtual) time together. From video games to virtual escape rooms and board games, there is something for everyone. Your HFN connection enables you to play without lagging.

We want you to have the best experience using the HFN network. Do not hesitate to reach out to our customer service team. We are happy to help.

Highlands Fiber Network: Fiber to the Home, Community Owned

For rates and information, contact HFN Customer Service: highlandsfibernetwork.com

(425) 427-0999

support@hfnservices.com

Issaquah Highlands Connections

January 2021

RENTAL FACILITIES

DIRECTORY NOTE: Offices are slowly reopening in accordance with the state's Safe Start program.

Contact staff members by email or call each office's main line to confirm office hours and staff availability.

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION 2520 NE Park Drive Suite B Monday–Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm

MAIN PHONE: 425-427-9257 | AFTER HOURS: 425-223-8887 | IssaquahHighlands.com Governing Body Responsible for:

Property Management Enforcement of CCRs, Rules, Regs

Architectural Review

Common Area Landscape

Board of Directors ihcaboard @ihcommunity.org Jim Young, President Rossie Cruz, Vice President Dan Vradenburg, Treasurer Greg Underwood, Secretary Bryan Shiflett, Director Elizabeth Parker Gregg, Director Bertan Aygun, Director

Funded by:

Annual IHCA Assessments Neighborhood Assessments

Blakely Hall 2550 NE Park Drive Monday–Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm*

MAIN PHONE: 425-507-1107 | IssaquahHighlands.com Governing Body

Board of Trustees hcbot@ihcouncil.org Kimberly Kapustein, President David Ngai, Treasurer Anna Preyapongpisen, Secretary Chris Beaudoin, Trustee Zach Hall, Trustee Phil Nored, Trustee Jimmy Ochiltree, Trustee Lisa Soboslai, Trustee Larry Norton, President Emeritus Ami Desai-Mehta, Emeritus

Funded by:

Sponsorships/Grants & Advertising Community Enhancement Fees (1/4 of 1% on sale of home) Retail/Commercial pays by the square foot, Rental Apartments by the door Christy Garrard, Executive Director | christy.g@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1110 Michele McFarland, Controller | michele.m@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1108 Lindsey Pinkston, Community Program Manager | lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1109 Vicki Grunewald, Media Editor | vicki.g@ihcouncil.org Katie Cannon, Graphic Designer and Social Media Coordinator | katie.c@ihcouncil.org

HIGHLANDS FIBER NETWORK Jeremy Fallt, General Manager jfallt@HFN.org, 425-394-4184

Governing Body: Board of Directors Charlie Herb, President Larry Norton, Vice President Allen Enebo, Treasurer Tim Underwood, Secretary

Howard Kapustein, Director David Ngai, Director Frank Pineau, Director

Fire Station #73 Meeting Room Homestreet Bank

Conference Room 909 Northeast Ellis Dr. | 425-677-2210 homestreet.com/branches/issaquah-branch Community Rooms 930 NE High St. | 425-270-6800 ywcaworks.org/locations/family-village-issaquah

CONNECTIONS WINNER 2020 Neighborhoods, USA Nonprofit Print Newsletter of the Year!

Connections: By Community, For Community Connections is a nationally recognized monthly community newspaper written mostly by volunteer-resident writers, edited and published by Highlands Council. Connections helps Highlands Council fulfill its mission to develop a vibrant and caring community committed to service, diversity, stewardship and well-being.

Join the Connections Team Highlands Council is always looking for volunteer contributors.

Contact Lindsey Pinkston, Community Program Manager, at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org.

Submit an Announcement for “Milestones” See your announcements published in the new life “Milestones” section of Connections. We accept birth/adoption, graduation, marriage, obituary and culturally-recognized life milestone announcements for Issaquah Highlands residents only. See submission form and guidelines at IssaquahHighlands.com.

Interested in Advertising in our media?

For more information, contact Christy Garrard, Highlands Council Executive Director, at christy.g@ihcouncil.org.

More information, ad packets/pricing, editorial calendar at issaquahhighlands.com/connect/connections-news.

Opinions expressed either by paid advertisers or editorial content do not necessarily reflect the views of Highlands Council or this newspaper.

Highlands Council reserves the right to accept or refuse submissions, and to edit content. We also reserve the right to refuse advertising or content that in our opinion does not reflect the standards of this paper.

GET INVOLVED Getting more involved in our community is a fun and easy way to meet people and contribute to the participatory culture of Issaquah Highlands.

* Excluding holidays and private event closures.

Customer Service: 425-427-0999 | HighlandsFiberNetwork.com

Blakely Hall is Issaquah Highlands’ award-winning community center that feels like a luxury lodge. With a variety of meeting, art & dining spaces, an outdoor patio, and adjacent park, it accommodates groups from 5 -200. See BlakelyHall.com for more information or contact us with your questions.

YWCA Family Village

HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

Blakely Hall Social Programs

Community Garden Connections Newspaper IssaquahHighlands.com BlakelyHall.com

E-Letter Official Social Media

Blakely Hall

2550 NE Park Drive 425-507-1107 | info@blakelyhall.com | BlakelyHall.com

1280 NE Park Drive 425-313-3200 | eastsidefire-rescue.org/Facilities

Sarah Hoey, Executive Director | sarah.h@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1120 Barbara Uribe, Senior Accountant and Benefits Coordinator | barbara.u@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1123 Kristyn McKinnon, Accounting Manager | kristyn.m@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1117 Soledad Ruiz, Account Receivable Specialist | soledad.r@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119 Blair Krieg, Community Manager | blair.k@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1121 Debbie Orosco, Community Manager | deborrah.o@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1134 Lyle Dickey, Landscape Manager | lyle.d@ihcommunity.org Matthew Hendrikse, Maintenance Facilities Manager | matthew.h@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1137 Billing Inquiries | payments@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119 General Inquiries | asktheihca@ihcommunity.org

Responsible for:

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Visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer for more information or contact Lindsey at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org or 425-507-1109.

  

@issaquahhighlands @IssHighlands @issaquahhighlands Sign up for our weekly e-letter at issaquahhighlands.com

EMERGENCY Emergency: 9-1-1 Issaquah Police (non-emergency) 425-837-3200 WA Dept of Fish & Wildlife 425-775-1311

Emergency Contact Number For after-hours emergencies not involving police and fire response or gas or water main breaks, contact IHCA at 425-223-8887

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Issaquah Highlands Connections