Summer 2021

Connections

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ISSAQUAH HIGHL ANDS

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By Community, for Community Summer 2021

The IHCA Annual Report

The IHCA recaps a busy year despite pandemic-related challenges (A BIG thanks to these hardworking IHCA landscape & maintenance crew members!)

Nationally Recognized by Neighborhoods, USA

W H AT ’ S I N S I D E ?

5-7 Feature: The IHCA 21 Highlands Council Annual Report 23 City News 9-11 Grad Announcements 25-27 Sponsored Content: Port Blakely 13 Volunteers of the Month 14-15 Highlands Youth (HY) 29 Smart Home 16 Special Programming 30 Emergency Preparedness 17 What's Happening 31 Directory 18-19 IHCA

ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON 2550 NE Park Drive Issaquah, WA 98029

PERMIT NO. 83 ISSAQUAH, WA U.S. POSTAGE PAID PRSRT STD

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

EDITOR’S NOTE

There’s no better time to admire Issaquah Highlands’ natural beauty than summertime. From our parks and open spaces to the medians down Park Drive – everything is eye-popping green. The community gardens practically burst with tomatoes, peas, lettuce, and berries. Every park bench invites us to stop a moment and take in the view. As you walk around the community this summer, note the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA), our homeowners association, works tirelessly year-round to ensure our community looks its absolute best.

In reading this year’s IHCA annual report for the 2020-2021 fiscal year (pages 5-7), you would never guess the team faced office closures and pandemic restrictions in the past year. In fact, the past year has Wow, check out these Vista Garden #1 sparked a new season of growth for the IHCA, including blooms! Photo by Katie Cannon. hiring new staff members, taking on major reserve projects, managing the final transition of the community from master developer Port Blakely, and embarking on a new five-year parks plan (see page 18). If you see an IHCA staff member out in the community, including the hardworking landscape and maintenance crew members on the cover of this issue, please take a moment to thank them for all they do.

It’s also a season of hope in our community. Join us in congratulating some of Issaquah Highlands’ 2021 grads (pages 9-11) as they embark on their next adventures. Welcome back the Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board and its new high school and middle school leaders who are excited to bring back youth programming in the community this fall (pages 14-15). And while there’s plenty of activities to keep you busy in the community this summer, we’re also excited to announce the return of community groups and programming to Blakely Hall this fall (see page 17). We hope you’ll join us on August 31, the first day of school, for the comeback of our popular event, Mimosa Morning, on the Blakely Hall patio. See you there!

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.”

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

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On the cover: IHCA landscape and maintenance staff members stand in the Vista Community Garden, which received some upgraded planter boxes this year. Pictured: (Front row) Lyle Dickey, Landscape Manager; Matthew Hendrikse, Maintenance Manager; Jesus Naranjo, Tony Gaytan, Julio Lievano. (Middle row) Jaime Portillo, Esteban Jimenez, Brennan Dickey. (Back row) Spencer Dickey, Fidel Alfaro. Not pictured: Dan Adams, Pedro Galvez.

Photo by Katie Cannon, Highlands Council.

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A Letter from the Board of Directors As we prepare to welcome new members to the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) Board of Directors, we all feel a great deal of excitement and renewed energy around what we can accomplish in our community.

This will be a year of reflection and change for the board as we say “goodbye” to Jim Young, who has loyally served as board president for the past 11 years.

While navigating how to best serve our community during an unprecedented health crisis has been challenging, we all continue to be inspired by how the members of this community stepped up to help one another. That inspiration is our driving force moving forward into our next chapter.

The IHCA board is committed to listening to your feedback.

We want to better engage with Issaquah Highlands homeowners and provide greater transparency into the decisions affecting the community.

The IHCA recently launched a mobile app we encourage everyone to download (see page 19). Our favorite feature is the one-click “Ask the IHCA” button where you can conveniently ask the IHCA staff members questions, provide feedback, or report concerns. We want to hear from you and hope having this tool at your fingertips makes that easier.

You can also engage directly with the board member serving your district.

his year’s Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) board election was an important one and the IHCA team is excited to work with the newly elected and tenured board members on setting additional goals for this community. At the same time, the IHCA is completing the final transition with the master developer, Port Blakely.

by Sarah Hoey IHCA Executive Director

Port Blakely’s vision for this community unfolded into what we see in Issaquah Highlands today. We have reached the maximum allowable development in the community. The transition from Port Blakely also involves bringing the custom architectural review (CARC) process inhouse, including all maintenance, operational, administration, current construction oversight, and future architectural review processing for vacant parcels and residential developments. This year, we are also excited to start park upgrades (read more on page 18).

Jim Young

With these changes, we start a new chapter together as a community. I feel honored to continue to work on behalf of this community and guide it into the future. A heartfelt thank you to Jim Young, IHCA board president for the past 11 years, for his professional support of the IHCA team. He will be missed.

— Sarah Hoey

IHCA Executive Director

As the summer months approach, we continue to focus on our five-year park improvement project, increase visibility at crosswalks, discuss safety in the community, prepare our master budget, and continue to review an unprecedented amount of home improvement applications.

New Staff Hires & Promotions

The board would like to extend a tremendous amount of thanks to all the IHCA staff for their continued dedication to the community. And thank you to our neighbors for lifting one another up and showing why the Issaquah Highlands is a wonderful place to call home.

With gratitude,

Elizabeth Parker Gregg Elizabeth Parker Gregg, on behalf of the IHCA Board of Directors

Esteban Jimenez joined the

IHCA’s landscaping team in the spring as a groundskeeper, committed to keeping Issaquah Highlands beautiful.

Longstanding landscape team member Julio Lievano was promoted to landscape foreman.

Julio has devoted 11 years of hard work to this community.

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

ACCOUNTING REPORT

Maintaining Financial Security for a Growing Community

by Kristyn McKinnon IHCA Accounting Manager

Development & Real Estate

Since July 2020, 40 new homes were completed and sold in Issaquah Highlands, and 165 homes are still under construction, bringing the total of resident-owned units to 3,402. When combined with 958 rental units and additional builder-owned units, our community is at 99% of “Total Allowable Residential.” There were also 228 resales in the past year.

COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT REPORT

A Busy Year Maintaining and Improving Community Assets 2020-2021 Special Projects • Painted exteriors of zHome, High Street Townhomes, Crofton Springs rowhouses, Concord Commons Buildings 1, 2, and 8, and West Highlands ParkAttached 1.

• Replaced Grand Ridge Drive split rail fence and managed annual street sweeping.

• Conducted building envelope inspections for High Street Townhomes, Concord Commons, and Villaggio neighborhoods to ensure building integrity.

• Managed building façade projects including dry rot repairs, siding replacement, and caulking at Concord Commons, Crofton Springs, Crofton at Village Green, Sunset Walk, View Ridge, and Villaggio neighborhoods.

• Managed common area improvements at zHome interior courtyard, including pathway lighting and hazardous tree removal.

• Replaced zHome geothermal loop pump #2, including new installation of switches to avoid disruption to service.

• Upgraded to LED lighting in Sunset Walk, Concord Commons, West Highlands Park, and Crofton at Village Green neighborhoods.

• Repaired emergency storm line repairs, installed and painted map enclosure, and refinished and replaced handrail at Crofton Springs.

• Conducted evening site walks to locate areas where additional lighting would be beneficial in the zHome, Crofton Springs, Crofton at Village Green, Valais Hudson, The Terraces, and Division 4 (by Huckleberry Circle) neighborhoods.

• Managed major landscape enhancements in the Dahlia Park neighborhood, including large tree removal and stump grinding; clearing over-crowded, unhealthy, and hazardous vegetation; bark installation; and new plant installations.

• Launched the IHCA mobile app (see page 19).

Annual Audit

We have completed another year with a “clean” audit (unqualified opinion) while maintaining strong controls over the accounting environment. By providing complete and accurate audit schedules to our auditors, we keep our audit fees low and our auditors happy.

by Debbie Orosco Community Manager

by Blair Krieg Community Manager

Annual Tasks • Performed project management for three neighborhoods and 11 supplemental communities, including general building and property maintenance such as roof and gutter cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, power washing, and management of third-party landscape vendors.

• Conducted annual capital reserve study updates for 11 supplemental communities.

• Completed monthly management reports, and distributed/posted them to the Issaquah Highlands website and IHCA mobile app for 12 supplemental communities.

• Ratified annual budgets for three neighborhoods and 12 supplemental communities within the master budget.

• Coordinated another successful IHCA Board of Directors election with 1,377 homeowners participating — a record number of votes.

Investments

We analyze our cash deposit positions persistently to attain the highest interest yield while maintaining 100% Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC) insurance on all our deposits. Our interest income for 2020-2021 is estimated to be $36,000, which is about $30,000 less than last year due to reduced interest rates. We have a very effective CD purchase program with our bank, enabling us to be efficient with cash management while receiving very competitive CD interest rates compared to other banks.

Our master reserves remain funded at 113%, a phenomenal achievement.

Master Assessments

Master assessments for the upcoming 2021-2022 fiscal year will increase by $1 per month to $948 annually. This is the first increase since the 2018-2019 fiscal year and was needed to cover increasing costs for our aging community.

• Managed monthly Architectural Review Committee (ARC) meetings and homeowner applications.

We continue to encourage participation in the monthly auto-debit payment (ACH) program for collecting assessments, in which 86% of our homeowners participate.

This keeps our cash flow even throughout the year and our delinquencies low at a rate of 1.5%.

• Managed Covenant Committee meetings and homeowner appeal process.

How We Do It

• Emailed welcome packets to 268 homeowners on behalf of the IHCA, Highlands Fiber Network, and Highlands Council.

• Performed weekly compliance site visits and processing.

• Coordinated and attended neighborhood and supplemental committee meetings for zHome, Crofton Springs, Dahlia Park, and Grand Ridge Drive neighborhoods.

• Encouraged homeowner education by responding to “Ask the IHCA” contact form and email address submissions, community emails, and Connections and IssaquahHighlands.com articles.

• Continued education by regularly attending a Community Association Institute (CAI) certification course. Both community managers are CAI-certified.

The community managers and the accounting manager work tirelessly for months to create the budgets for 14 supplemental neighborhoods and the master community.

Many of the budgets have a high level of complexity; community managers spend countless hours researching and reviewing costs to ensure the numbers are accurate and fair to all homeowners in the community. These budgets are then reviewed and approved by the IHCA Finance Committee and IHCA Board of Directors.

We want to thank the resident volunteers who serve on the Finance Committee and the board for their support throughout the year. The Finance Committee meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. The board meets every fourth Monday at 5:30 p.m. All meetings are open to the public. Find more details at issaquahhighlands. com/events or on the IHCA mobile app.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

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LANDSCAPE REPORT

Major Landscape Upgrades Beautify Our Green Spaces

by Lyle Dickey IHCA Landscape Manager

Magnolia Park

Spar Park

Village Green Photos by the IHCA and Vicki Grunewald

MAINTENANCE REPORT

Repairs and Upgrades Give New Life to Our Community's Parks The Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) maintenance team accomplished a lot in the past year, continuing our daily maintenance and reserve projects during the pandemic.

• Welcomed new maintenance team member, Tony, who has worked on the IHCA landscape team since 2012.

Tony’s attitude is always grateful, and he is willing to do just about anything. He has helped our team in the past and is very quick to learn new things. Maintenance is happy to have Tony on our team.

• Refurbished low voltage lighting on the MP9 Trail near Black Nugget Park, including removing, sand-blasting, and re-powder coating fixtures. Maintenance saved almost 40% of the cost of new fixtures, and now they have a better finish coating.

by Matthew Hendrikse IHCA Maintenance Manager

Dahlia Park: Revamped landscaping using budgeted reserve funds, totaling $55,000, in partnership with IHCA vendor, Landcare.

• Removed old and overcrowded plants and trees and installed new ones, added new soil and bark, and replaced old or damaged sod.

• Upgraded irrigation to meet new plant needs.

Village Green Park: Upgraded the landscaping and irrigation from master budget funds.

• Upgraded landscaping around the park perimeter to improve visibility and add color. Added bark.

• Repaired and painted the existing fence around Kirk Park. Replaced rotten wood posts, rails, and pickets, then primed and painted the entire fence.

• Replaced 900 linear feet of split rail fencing at Spar Park.

• Replaced the existing basketball hoop at Magnolia Park. In process: power wash the concrete, add a versa court surface, replace the picnic tables, paint the gazebo, and replace the roof.

• Replaced common area signage, including wetlands signage, "no parking," and park signage.

• Replaced mailboxes in the Magnolia Park neighborhood. Replacements in the Crofton Springs neighborhood are in progress.

• Sand-blasted and powder coated all the park benches and low voltage lighting around The Greens (green space between NE Iverson Lane and NE Jewel Lane), and power washed all the sidewalks.

• Installed new embankment slides at Summit Park and replaced shotcrete and rubber surfacing.

• Removed and replaced the wood split rail fencing near the staircase in Firehouse Park, from 12th Avenue NE into the park.

Parks and structures will be a primary focus for the maintenance team in the upcoming years. Learn more about current and upcoming Issaquah Highlands parks projects on page 18.

• Repaired and painted the bridge at the Sunset Pond and applied asphalt sealant.

• Reworked irrigation to provide adequate water for plants and trees.

The Greens: Upgraded landscaping and irrigation from master reserve funds.

• Upgraded landscaping for the entire park: removed old plants and installed new ones, added soil to raised planter beds, replaced old and damaged sod, and added bark for weed control and beautification.

• Repaired park drainage boxes and cleaned the drainage system.

• Reworked irrigation to provide adequate water to plants and trees.

Sunset Pond: Upgraded landscape and irrigation from operating budget.

• Repurposed plants using tear-outs from Village Green.

• Reworked irrigation to provide adequate water for new plants.

• Added bark for weed control and beautification.

Vista Garden: Upgraded planter boxes.

• Removed old garden planter boxes and rebuilt 14 with concrete blocks; added soil and mulch to new planter boxes.

• Weeded and cleaned up garden paths and walkways, and added new gravel to control weeds and improve the walking surface.

• Installed flowerpots at the entry gates for beautification.

Streetscape Upgrades: Applied groundcover and replaced street trees.

• Replaced 40 dead or damaged trees in common areas.

• Replaced old or damaged groundcover and planted 8,000 new 1-gallon groundcovers • Added 100 cubic yards of bark to planting areas and tree pits.

Pond Telemetry Controls: The IHCA and the city of Issaquah made upgrades to provide better stormwater management using real-time pond level reporting, and to better monitor available rainwater for our irrigation needs.

• Installed new pond level controls, digital control pads, and remote communication equipment.

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Summer 2021

2021 GRADS

Congratulations to our 2021 graduates! Despite a very challenging year, our community's youth worked hard to achieve their goals and dream of a brighter future. We wish all Issaquah Highlands grads luck in their next adventures; we are so proud of you!

HIGH SCHOOL GRADS REBEKAH BLAZER

JOSHUA BRUECKMAN

Issaquah HS | Villagio resident

Issaquah HS | Harrison Street resident

Rebekah will attend Gonzaga University and study computer science. She hopes to eventually combine her love of art with her interest in programming.

Josh will attend Colorado State University in the fall and plans to study business.

MADISON CHAPMAN

JONAH FOSS

Issaquah HS | Pine Crest resident

Issaquah HS | Manchester Court resident

Madison will attend Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah as an elementary education major.

Jonah will graduate Issaquah High School with community service honors and attend the University of Washington in the fall to pursue a degree in business and communication.

ELLA HART

SOPHIA JONES

Issaquah HS | The Terraces resident

Issaquah HS | Wisteria Park resident

Ella will study fashion business management and sustainability at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City this fall.

Sophia plans to study computer science at the University of Portland in the fall. "You're off to great places, today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so...get on your way!" (Dr. Seuss, "Oh, the Places You'll Go")

TREVOR JORDAN

ANNA KIESEWE T TER

Issaquah HS | Logan Park resident Trevor will attend Montana State University in the fall, where he plans to ski, fish, hike, and major in mechanical engineering.

Issaquah HS | The Cottages resident Anna will attend Stanford University in Palo Alto, Calif., working towards a bachelor's degree in psychology and creative writing.

SAM MAURER

ZACH MAYES

Issaquah HS | Dahlia Park resident Sam plans to attend California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, Calif. and will study electrical engineering.

Issaquah HS | 24th Ave. resident Zach will graduate with honors from Issaquah High School and go on to play football for the Bulldogs at the University of Redlands in Southern California, where he plans to study business.

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HIGH SCHOOL GRADS CAROLINE MCGAUGHEY

TIANNA MITZEL

Issaquah HS | Dahlia Park resident

Issaquah HS | The Terraces resident

Caroline will attend Western Washington University in the fall. Caroline's passion is writing, and she aspires to be an author and share her stories and creativity with the world. Until then, her plans are to major in education and teach chemistry. She is excited and ready to take this next big step; her family is cheering her on all the way!

Tianna is excited to attend Whitworth University in Spokane, Wash., in the fall to study mathematics.

DELANEY MORGAN

SRAVANI NANDURI

Issaquah HS | Harrison Street resident

Issaquah HS | Harrison Street resident

Delaney will attend Bellevue College in the fall and wants to pursue a career in wildlife rehabilitation.

Sravani is excited to attend the University of Washington in the fall with direct admission to the computer science program at the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering.

Congratulations, Sravani, and all the best for this next phase of your life!

EMILY PALM

ZOE PARSONS

Issaquah HS | Crofton Springs resident

Issaquah HS | Roanoke Woods resident

Emily will attend Gonzaga University in the fall with plans to study political science and criminology. Congratulations to Emily and all she has accomplished!

Zoe plans to attend the University of Colorado Boulder in the fall to study psychology. Sko Buffs!

LOGAN POWELL

KAILEE RAPKIN

Issaquah HS | Wisteria Park resident Logan will attend the University of Washington College of Engineering.

Gibson Ek HS | Harrison Street resident Kailee will attend her dream school, Texas Christian University, to study interior design. Go Frogs!

LANA SALDIVAR

OLIVIA STEVENSON

Issaquah HS | Ravenna resident Lana will attend California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, Calif., in the fall to study architectural engineering.

Issaquah HS | Black Nugget Park resident

SRINVAS SUNDARARAMAN

JAMES SWANSON

Issaquah HS | Daphne Park resident Srini will graduate with honors from Issaquah High School and will study computer science at California Polytechnic State University.

Congratulations, Olivia! We are so proud of you and all you have accomplished during high school. We were in awe when you graduated with the seal of biliteracy in Mandarin Chinese and were honored with the American Association of University Women STEM Award for Technology. We love you and can't wait to watch you succeed in the next chapter of your life! Love, Mom, Avery, Lucy, and Rose.

Olivia will attend Brigham Young University in the fall.

Issaquah HS | North Park resident James will attend the University of North Dakota in the fall. He’ll major in commercial aviation (B.S. in Aeronautics) while earning his commercial pilot’s certificate with instrument and multi-engine ratings and a certified flight instructor certificate with an instrument rating.

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LEAH SWEENEY

SID THIAGARAJAN

Issaquah HS | Mulberry resident

Issaquah HS | Park Drive resident

Leah will attend Washington State University this fall. She plans to pursue a career in the healthcare field.

Sid will attend the University of Washington and plans to study business. Go Dawgs!

LEWIS WALLACE III

SHANE WHITE

Issaquah HS | The Brownstones resident

Issaquah HS | Pine Crest resident

Lewis will graduate from Issaquah HS with Running Start credits from Bellevue College and a varsity letter for football. He will attend Bellevue College in the fall to study information technology and cybersecurity. You did it, Lew! Congratulations! Great things await you as you forge ahead in pursuit of the next great chapter of your life! We believe in you and love you! From all the members of the Wallace Family (Mom, Dad, Paris, Grandma, and Grandpa).

Shane plans to earn his Master of Science in Athletic Training and Communication.

COLLEGE GRADS PRATISHTHA CHHABRA

LESLIE COTE

Lincoln Memorial University - DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine | Ashland Park resident

Central Washington University | The Highlands at Wynhaven resident Leslie will travel to Nashville, Tenn., for a birthday vacation and to finally see relatives. She will then work full-time at Edward Jones in Gilman Village.

She's hoping to find an apartment and still reside in Issaquah.

Dr. Chhabra graduated medical school with dual honors for academic excellence and embodying humanism in medicine. She'll start a residency in pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine - Texas Children's Hospital, one of the top five pediatrics programs in the country. She is also one of four interns accepted into the specialized leadership and advocacy program where she hopes to develop expertise in children's rights advocacy, health policy, improving health equity, and serving underserved populations.

JILL ENEBO

Western Washington University | Ashland Park resident Jill plans to live and work in Seattle. Her double degree in psychology and anthropology give her plenty of options to choose from. We are so proud of the strong woman she has become and we are thrilled she will be living closer to home!

ALEC ZIMMERMAN University of Washington | Ashland Park resident Alec graduated from the University of Washington with a B.A. in Political Science and a B.A. in International Studies, and minors in aerospace leadership studies and nutritional sciences. He is commissioning as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force as a security forces officer. Upon graduating, he will attend a post-graduate fellowship at the John Jay Institute through the Saratoga Fellows Program. His first duty station will be at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., preceding to the Security Forces Officer Course at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland for technical training.

TAYLOR HART

Texas Christian University | The Terraces resident Taylor graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Movement Science and a minor in Spanish. She plans to pursue a career as a physical therapist.

WHAT ARE YOU CELEBRATING? Celebrating a birth, wedding, anniversary, or other culturally significant milestone? Share the good news with your community!

Submit your FREE Connections announcement at issaquahhighlands.com/submit-a-connections-announcement or email vicki.g@ihcouncil.org.

Summer 2021

Issaquah Highlands Connections

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VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

Volunteers of the Month May, June, and July 2021

Congratulations and thank you to our volunteers of the month for May-July 2021 who represent unique volunteer opportunities with Highlands Council, Highlands Fiber Network (HFN), and the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA). Read their personal volunteer stories in full at issaquahhighlands.com/tag/ volunteer-of-the-month. You just may be inspired to start volunteering yourself!

MAY 2021

David Ngai

Highlands Council Board Trustee, HFN Board Director, and IHCA Finance Committee member

Over the past ten years, I have served on the IHCA Board of Directors, the

Highlands Council Board of Trustees, and the [HFN] Board of Directors. As one of the very few people who has served on all three boards, I try to be the glue to bind the organizations together."

JUNE 2021

Allen Enebo

HFN Advisory Group Member and Issaquah Highlands Community Fund Board Director

I have loved working with the other board members, protecting, enhancing, and

maintaining one of the biggest assets in the Issaquah Highlands."

JULY 2021

Sanjay Mahajan

IHCA Architectural Review Committee

I share the passion of the committee members and IHCA staff in keeping our

neighborhood pristine and assisting with the best use of financial resources in keeping up with the upkeep and enhancement of our community."

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.

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

HIGHLANDS YOUTH - HY

Meet the 2021-2022 Highlands Youth Advisory Board

Joseph Bone-Mazak

Ryan Aby

Nicole de los Reyes

"I will keep coming up with new ideas and keep future plans in mind. I am excited to see our ideas come to life this year!"

"I hope that I can be an influence in the life of fellow board members this year and many to follow."

"This last year with COVID, it’s been a lot harder to organize events and to reach out to the youth...I want to be a part of this new HY board so I can help rebuild connections and bring the youth together again."

"I want to make a difference in changing and improving the lives of others by taking a bigger role in our community’s well being."

Cash Mendoza

Arya Mahajan

Ethan Hunter

Vernika Jain

"I like to be involved in our community, meeting new people, and helping plan activities for others."

"I am very interested in being part of the discussion about community governance and learning more about the policies that are currently implemented."

"I have been on the HY board since sixth grade and really enjoy the community and everything that we do. There has never been a day in the HY that I haven’t enjoyed or appreciated."

"I learned how to debrief after events and evaluate what went well and what to improve on for next time. These discussions have helped me learn what makes an event a success."

Quinn Ryan

Colin Yuen

Sage Cowan

Anika Mehta

"I would love to become a part of the community that is dedicated to promoting inclusion to all teens within the Highlands."

"I think what the HY board does for the community is beneficial to the relationships for teens in the community. We are constantly learning from our projects which makes each one better than the last."

"Being a part of the HY Board has helped me cultivate leadership skills and learn how collaboration can be an effective tool in connecting people, especially teenagers."

Sophia Hashmey

HY board co-president, 12th grade

9th grade

11th grade

"I have always been a quiet and shy kid so being in a group where I could share my ideas and have those ideas supported helped me immensely."

HY board co-president, 10th grade

10th grade

11th grade

9th grade

11th grade

12th grade

9th grade

11th grade

12th grade

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HIGHLANDS YOUTH - HY

NEW

What's with the HY? Neal Coppa

Riley Evans

"I will help the HY board by including everybody and making sure nobody feels bad."

"I'd like to organize a dance party for all kids....I think another good event would be a friendship event where a lot of kids can meet each other and make new friends that they haven't met before."

Lane MacDougall

Lily Pinkston

Maia Esbensen

"When you do good things for others it provides a sense of accomplishment. I'm fully invested in my community and want to make it better for all of us."

"I really like to help run events. I am also good at planning things like events and projects. I am also good with [video] games and I can help and teach others how to play."

"I have written in Connections and love doing art and being creative. I am eager to share my ideas and listen to others."

Vaibhav Alaparthi

Sydney Evans

Saira Hashmey

"I would like to have a series of projects that positively impact the environment such as growing plants, and events that promote the well being of the environment..."

"One of my favorite ideas I had was we make a gaming club for games...that are popular and can be downloaded across many platforms so a lot of people can be included. "

"I hope to gain leadership and teamwork skills. Some of my strengths are being a digital artist, part of a gaming community, strong communication skills, and kindness."

Asher Pinkston

Grace Rich

Jaya Sathi

Akshadha Seshamai

"Some of my talents and strengths are that I am creative, I know how to edit videos...

I work well with littler kids, and I am also a good explainer/teacher."

"I would like to learn more about public speaking because I think it is an important skill to be able to communicate clearly with others."

"I hope to gain professional skills from my participation, such as how to work with a board and how to apply those skills when I am older and need to find a job."

"The pandemic made me truly understand the value of being connected with friends, peers, and community. I am determined to find opportunities...[to] give back to our community."

6th grade

by Christy Garrard Executive Director, Highlands Council and Dahlia Park Resident

Established in 2013, the Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board program was put on pause for the better part of 2020 because of the pandemic. This year, I have a co-leader for the HY, Highlands Council Community Program Manager Lindsey Pinkston.

Lindsey will be the adult mentor for our 12 middle school leaders, and I will remain the adult mentor for the 12 high school student leaders.

While the students of the HY Advisory Board ultimately determine the projects and events to produce annually, this year middle school leaders will focus on service projects and event planning for the elementary age members of the community.

The high school board members will produce events for middle school students and focus on civic leadership and life skills development for themselves and their peers in our community beginning this fall.

We are proud to introduce to the community to the 2021-2022 roster of student community leaders, some returning alums to the program and many new faces. A record 45 middle and high school students submitted applications to join the HY board this spring; 24 were selected.

Be sure to follow @HYBoard on Facebook and check issaquahhighlands.com/events for future HY board news and events coming this fall.

8th grade

6th grade

8th grade

8th grade

6th grade

8th grade

8th grade

6th grade

7th grade

8th grade

8th grade

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SPECIAL PROGRAMMING

This Summer, Celebrate Culture and Community on the Green Our first Global Grub & Groove event in June celebrated Juneteenth. About 500 friends and neighbors gathered at Village Green Park to enjoy delicious Texas barbecue and the fabulous music of Michael Powers.

Thanks to everyone who made this event possible, including the volunteers from the

by Lindsey Pinkston Highlands Youth Advisory Board who handed Community Program Manager, Highlands Council out traditional Juneteenth strawberry Fanta, and Wisteria Park Resident in addition to supporting the event from setup to cleanup.

Issaquah Mayor Mary Lou Pauly stopped by to recognize the first public Juneteenth event held in Issaquah. We look forward to continuing the monthly Global Grub & Grove series – join us on July 23, August 10, and September 10 to celebrate culture and community in Issaquah Highlands. More details will be available at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

Graphics and photos by Katie Cannon

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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS

Community Groups

 Toastmasters Thursdays, 7 a.m.

Book club is a great place to meet neighbors, socialize, and explore a variety of books. Join the Facebook group at facebook.com/ihbookclub.

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.

 IH Business Networking Group

Yarns & Threads 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!

All knitters, crocheters, and stitchers are welcome.

For more details or questions, please contact Cathie Coulter at Catherine.coulter@ihmail.com. Meeting on Zoom or outside through the summer. Returning to Blakely Hall on September 3.

 Book Club

Third Tuesdays, 7 p.m.

Returns Monday, September 13, 9:30 a.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 Returns Friday, September 24

Discover how to find moments to relax the mind.

The group practices 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

Returns Saturday, September 18, 10:30 a.m.

Blakely Hall

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.

Summer Toddler Playgroup Wednesdays, 10 a.m.

Kirk Park

Time for some fun in the sun! Moms, dads, and caregivers and their children (newborn to age 4) are invited for unmoderated fun, friendship, support, and socializing this summer!

 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.

Tai Chi Fitness Class

Returns Wednesday, September 8, 6:30 a.m.

Blakely Hall

Free Chen-style Tai Chi for all who are interested in learning and practicing together. This ancient Chinese martial art promotes health by reducing bodily tension and stress, improving balance and coordination, increasing joint flexibility, calming the breath, and clearing the mind.

Fridays, 10 a.m.

Get Involved  Cross-Cultural Committee

Anyone who has a passion for celebrating the diverse cultures that make up Issaquah Highlands is invited to join our cross-cultural committee. We’ll come together to learn from each other and help shape the direction of Highlands Council and plan special events.

Contact Lindsey at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org or visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer to learn more.

IH Doers & Dreamers Day of Service Last Mondays

Small steps can have a big impact! Inspired by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we hope you will join the IH Cross-Cultural Committee in taking 15 minutes each month to help keep our community beautiful. Learn more at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

Start a Community Group

Looking to connect with neighbors who have similar interests? Now is a great time to make plans to start a new community group (or bring back one you’ve missed) in the fall. Contact lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org to learn more and get started.

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

Governance Mtgs  Highlands Council Board of Trustees

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

Issaquah Highlands Community Fund Board of Directors First Tuesdays, 4 p.m.

IHCA Architectural Review Committee First Tuesdays, 6 p.m.

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.

 Indicates this group/event occurs online. All events are FREE unless otherwise noted.

Don't Miss This Primary Candidate Forums

Join us virtually to learn about who is running to represent us in public office this year. Both the Issaquah City Council and King County Council have runoff elections in the primary this year. Submit your questions in advance at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

Thursday, July 8, 7 p.m.

Issaquah City Council, Position 5 Tuesday, July 13, 7 p.m.

King County Council, District 3

Global Grub & Groove Village Green Park

Join friends and neighbors at Village Green for fun, food, and free entertainment to celebrate culture and community! Each month the event honors a different culture in Issaquah Highlands.

Friday, July 23, 6-8 p.m.

Friday, August 10, 6-8 p.m.

Friday, September 10, 6-8 p.m.

Crossing Paths with Carnivores Adventure

Embark on an exciting path of discovery by playing a new scavenger hunt game in Issaquah Highlands using your smart phone. This fun, 12-stop adventure will lead you to find clues, solve puzzles, and complete adventures one location at a time. Complete the adventure to win prizes throughout the summer. Learn more on page 14 or visit issaquahhighlands.com/ carnivores-adventure.

“A Focus on Home” Photography Contest Submissions due by July 31

Celebrate life in Issaquah Highlands through your lens.

Photographers of all ages are invited to submit your best photos of our community’s beautiful landscapes, features, and community life across ten categories.

Prizes will be awarded in each category and age group, and your photo may be chosen for display in the Blakely Hall gallery. Learn more at issaquahhighlands.com/ photography-contest.

Mimosa Morning

Tuesday, August 31, 9-11 a.m.

Blakely Hall patio

Swing by Blakely Hall on the first day of school to celebrate with friends and neighbors! Join us for coffee, mimosas, and a light breakfast. All are welcome (age 21 and over).

Community-Wide Garage Sale Saturday, September 18, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Whether it's a yard sale or a garage sale, it's a summer tradition! Sell or shop throughout the community at the semi-annual Issaquah Highlands Community-Wide Garage Sale.

Call for Vendors – Issaquah Highlands Shop Local Holiday Bazaar Saturday, November 27, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Blakely Hall

In anticipation of returning to an in-person holiday bazaar this year, we are accepting vendor applications starting July 1, with priority given to Issaquah Highlands residents through September 1. We also plan to have a few half tables again this year available for resident kid-preneurs to sell their handmade products. For more information or to apply as a vendor, visit the event page at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Progress in Our Parks Announcing the IHCA's Five-Year Parks Project and 2021 Survey Results

by Sarah Hoey IHCA Executive Director

This spring, the IHCA held its annual survey to gain valuable feedback from Issaquah Highlands residents. To coincide with our new five-year parks project, the focus of this year’s survey was parks. We want to thank everyone who took the time to take the survey. We received 165 responses and will consider the results when planning park upgrades.

Photo by Vicki Grunewald

 Favorite Parks Kirk Park received the most votes for favorite park. Firehouse Park, Summit Park, and Bark Park were also among the top favorites.

Kirk Park in located at the intersection of NE Magnolia Street and NE Natalie Way.

Bark Park received the most feedback, including requests to put a water source at the top of the hill, fix the fence at the small dog park, and put in more seating areas for pet owners. These improvements will be completed over the next two years. Any Bark Park updates can only be completed if they comply with the material and installation restrictions of the Bonneville Power Administration’s administrative agreements.

Recent Park Updates

Magnolia Park  We recently replaced the basketball hoop at Magnolia Park and the IHCA partnered with the Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board to decide on colors for a new basketball court covering. HY members chose blue and green in honor of the Seattle Seahawks. We anticipate this project will be completed early this summer.



Logan Park We are giving Logan Park a much-needed and highly requested makeover. We will remove the concrete play tunnels that have long adorned Logan Park to make room for a new play structure designated for kids ages 5-12. We will make additional landscaping and maintenance upgrades as necessary.

Requested New Amenities The most requested park amenities include seating areas for large groups to gather, equipment for teens (like a bike course), outdoor fitness equipment (54% of participants said they would use it), a climbing wall, and more swings. In addition, after reviewing the survey results, the IHCA plans to work with developers in the future to discuss the possibility of adding a dog park in the lower part of the community.

How Does the IHCA Make Community Upgrades?

The IHCA has begun the massive undertaking of a staggered, five-year plan to upgrade most of the parks in our beautiful community. The behind-the-scenes process of upgrading any part of the community is much more complex than what residents can see. The IHCA must follow all regulations — city, county, state, and federal — to ensure the safety of our community and its members.

In addition to these regulations, we also need to: • Validate material availability • Follow Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements • Be conscious of traffic/pedestrian safety • Be conscious of land-use restrictions • Ensure proper lighting • Research utility locations

• Manage vegetation and drainage • Make necessary irrigation upgrades

Summit Park  We replaced the iconic Summit Park slides, and now they’re better than ever. The maintenance team worked hard throughout the spring to remove and replace the worn slides and install new rubber padding surrounding the slides so everyone can enjoy them.

• Research play equipment, follow national playground guidelines, and have a third-party company inspect newly-erected play structures

The IHCA’s maintenance, landscaping, and administrative teams work diligently to ensure every aspect of the community runs smoothly, especially during a transitional period full of renovations. We appreciate your patience while we implement these upgrades.

As always, the IHCA will continue to do daily park maintenance, follow safety protocols, and prioritize projects based on material availability, budget restraints, and community needs. We want to thank the wonderful residents of Issaquah Highlands for being a part of this beautiful community we continuously strive to perfect. Thank you for making your home here in Issaquah Highlands.

Future Park Upgrades • The IHCA recently replaced and repainted the fencing around Kirk Park, along with the gazebo. We will assess the play structure for replacement or additions in the coming years.

• The IHCA is excited for the future development of a third community garden located in Westridge Townhomes North, set to be completed in the next two years. The IHCA strives to increase communications between the homeowners association and community gardeners to ensure safety for individuals and their crops alike.

• The IHCA will explore additional upgrades for the remaining parks in Issaquah Highlands, including a general refurbishment of Magnolia, Fire House, and West Highlands parks with playground, basketball court, and landscaping amendments.

• The IHCA will assess Ashland Park, the first park in Issaquah Highlands, for additional seating areas, a potential maypole replacement, and possible play equipment upgrades.

New Park Update: High Street Linear Park Construction on High Street Linear Park, located in the Westridge neighborhood, started in 2020. The family and pet-friendly park replaced a portion of High Street with a multi-use trail measuring one-third of a mile. The park will feature various amenities, including a metered running track, toddler play structures, hammocks, picnic tables and shelters with accessible seating, a west-facing lookout with seating, an emergency callbox, an adult exercise station, a rain garden with a rock water feature, a bike rack, and historical information plaques.

Taylor Morrison (formerly Polygon) is the park developer, and the IHCA serves as the master association, providing conceptual and architectural oversight for the project.

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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

The City of Issaquah: An Important IHCA Partner

by Sarah Hoey IHCA Executive Director

The relationship between the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) and the city of Issaquah is unique because Issaquah Highlands feels like a city within a city. The hard work we accomplish for the Highlands could not happen without the support of the city of Issaquah. The IHCA and the city have partnered on many projects in the past 25 years.

Here are some of the current projects we're working on:

Adding Crosswalk Beacon Lights Crosswalk beacon lights were proposed for highly trafficked areas of the community, such as the intersection of Park Drive and Fire House Park, and Park Drive and Trailhead Vista. Traffic studies are currently in progress, and the city is exploring a sustainable power source for the beacon pedestals.

Once the city and the IHCA approve these new features, the crosswalk beacon lights will be installed to further protect pedestrians. The city is responsible for all city streets, crosswalks, and public sidewalks.

ARC TIP OF THE MONTH

Accessory Structure Installation

Addressing Traffic and Speeding Concerns Traffic and speeding in Issaquah Highlands have been the number one priority in addressing safety concerns around the neighborhood. There are ongoing discussions between the IHCA and the city to mitigate these issues.

Improving Sidewalks and Trip Hazards The IHCA is engaged in a collaborative partnership with the city of Issaquah’s Public Works Department to identify rising sidewalks and trip hazards within the Highlands. This is a city-wide initiative to ensure all sidewalks are compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and do not pose a hazard to any resident.

Did you know the installation of any accessory structures, including trash can enclosures, requires IHCA Architectural Review Committee (ARC) approval. Also, remember they are subject to city permits and setback requirements. Freestanding sheds do not require a permit but must be set back from the property line by at least 4 feet. Plastic sheds are not allowed in Issaquah Highlands.

Find ARC guidelines and applications at issaquahhighlands.com/learn/issaquah-highlandscommunity-association-ihca/ihca-architecturalguidelines-and-forms.

Tree roots adjacent to sidewalks are the most common culprit of lifting sidewalks. It may be necessary to remove trees and ground out the roots to ensure safe sidewalk passage in the future. Owners will always be notified if vegetation and/ or trees need to be removed permanently or replaced with a non-invasive root systems plant. The IHCA’s goal is to only remove trees that pose the biggest threat to sidewalks, as luscious foliage is a key piece of the Highlands’ aesthetic.

Collaboration with IPD The IHCA has ongoing meetings with the Issaquah Police Department (IPD) to address traffic, speeding, and crime concerns in the community. We want to extend our sincerest thanks to IPD Chief of Police Scott Behrbaum, who is committed not only to the Issaquah Highlands community but to all residents of Issaquah.

RULES REMINDER

Fireworks Are Not Allowed

Use or discharge of firecrackers and other fireworks is not allowed.

Thank you for doing your part.

The city of Issaquah also prohibits the use of fireworks anywhere in city limits without a permit.

This includes sparklers, cones, fountains, and roman candles.

Welcome Back Goats in July!

by Lyle Dickey IHCA Landscape Manager

Our friendly neighborhood goats will be back for the 15th year to help with vegetation control on some of our more difficult slopes. The goats will arrive the week of July 12, first working on the slope below the Vista Park neighborhood, located off 10th Avenue NE.

The goats will be here for a total of four weeks as they move to different areas throughout Issaquah Highlands.

The goats are kept in their work area by an electrified perimeter fence and watched by a guard dog, Gigi, to keep them safe from people and predators. Gigi and the goats are accustomed to each other and can be in the same pen. Please leave your dog at home when you visit the goats so as not to scare or alarm Gigi.

Find more information about the goats, including the herd’s current location in our community, at issaquahhighlands.com/goats or on the new IHCA mobile app. Photo by Nina Milligan.

The goats are particular about the food they eat, and some foods and plants are not healthy for them, so please do not feed the goats. We all love the goats, so please visit them and say “hi.” Let’s take care of them so they can continue to take care of our community.

CHECK THIS OUT

Download the New IHCA Mobile App

Have the IHCA at your fingertips with the new IHCA mobile app. The app is free and is available in the iOS and Android app stores, see QR codes below.

Download iOS app

Download Android app

LEARN MORE! These tips and rules reminders are only a subset of IHCA guidelines and regulations. For complete standards, visit our website, issaquahhighlands.com/ ihca. Questions? Call the IHCA at (425) 427-9257 or email asktheihca@ihcommunity.org.

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HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

Graphic produced by Katie Cannon

Connections Named a Top Newsletter of the Year!

Neighborhoods, USA Recognizes Connections for the Second Year in a Row Connections received national recognition as a community publication again, earning second place in the 2021 Nonprofit Print Newsletter of the Year category at this year’s Neighborhoods, USA (NUSA) national conference. Connections took first place in the same category at last year’s conference.

by Christy Garrard Executive Director, Highlands Council and Dahlia Park Resident

NUSA is a national, nonprofit organization committed to building and strengthening neighborhood organizations. NUSA believes community newsletters are an effective communication tool to share news about our city, community, and neighborhoods. In addition to branding, design, and content, award criteria also measured outreach and community involvement.

As Connections’ publisher, Highlands Council shares this recognition with all of you, our volunteer contributors, and the generous support of the local business community.

Connections is written “by community, for community.” In Issaquah Highlands, we take finding the right role for a new volunteer seriously. For residents who have something important to say or share with the community, writing content and taking photos for Connections are wonderful ways to get involved. We love our volunteer writers; the best news is news from a neighbor.

If you are interested in getting involved, please contact Lindsey Pinkston, Highlands Council program manager at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org or visit issaquahhighlands.com/ volunteer to learn more.

Christy Garrard Recognized as a "Who's Who" at 2021 NUSA Conference Highlands Council Executive Director Christy Garrard was recognized as a “Who’s Who in America’s Neighborhoods” award finalist at this year’s Neighborhoods, USA (NUSA) conference.

According to NUSA, the award was “created to recognize those individuals whose work mirrors the mission of Neighborhoods, USA; to build and strengthen neighborhoods associations; to encourage neighborhood involvement in the decision-making process in local governments; and to promote productive communications and collaborations between neighborhood associations, local governments, and the public/private sector.”

Congratulations, Christy!

— Vicki Grunewald, Highlands Council Media Editor

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Summer 2021

highly trained providers, we can...

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Y

ear after year, Swedish delivers more babies than any other health care system in Western Washington. With countless years of experience and a team of highly trained physicians, midwives and supporting caregivers, we can offer families peace of mind knowing they will be well taken care of from pregnancy to delivery and beyond. If you’re thinking about starting a family, Swedish can help you begin the journey of a lifetime.

For more information, call:

Issaquah Highlands Blakely Hall 2 different Camps Aug 16-20 Aug 23-27 Ages 7-13 9AM-3PM

Register Now! SeattleMagicAcademy.com

• OBGYN Specialists - Issaquah 425-313-7080 • Midwifery Issaquah 425-313-4141 • OBGYN Specialists - Renton 425-391-5770 SWEDISH ISSAQUAH 751 NE Blakely Drive, Issaquah, WA 98029 swedish.org/issaquah

We offer: • Spacious labor and delivery rooms • Delivery with a doctor or midwife • Low and high-risk prenatal care • Level II NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) • Doula services • Birth and family classes • Convenient parking • CenteringPregnancy® – group prenatal care with midwives • Lactation support before, during and after your hospital stay • In-room entertainment, with “soothing sound” options to enhance comfort and relaxation • In-room dining for patients and partners

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CITY NEWS

IN THE WEEDS

On Issaqauh's Drinking Water “In the Weeds” is a new Issaquah Highlands media series written by city leaders, taking an in-depth approach to important topics that impact Issaquah Highlands and the region. This is the first column of the series.

by Zach Hall Issaquah City Councilmember, Legislative Assistant to Washington State Rep. Lisa Callan, a Highlands Council Board Trustee, and an Issaquah Highlands Resident

Where does our drinking water come from?

In Issaquah, our drinking water comes from two sources – local groundwater wells and regional water supply.

Much of the city’s water comes from Cascade Water Alliance (CWA), a partnership of regional cities and water and sewer districts committed to providing clean, reliable, affordable drinking water to its members, like Issaquah.

CWA maintains this regional supply by purchasing surplus water from Seattle Public Utilities thanks to an abundance in the Tolt and Ceder River Watersheds. If you live or work in Issaquah Highlands or the Newport, Lakemont, Montreux, or South Lake Sammamish neighborhoods, that cold glass of water on a hot day is thanks to this important partnership.

Another major source of our water comes from four groundwater wells found in the valley. If you live or work in the Squak Mountain, Central Issaquah, Issaquah Valley, Olde Town, or Sycamore neighborhoods, turning on your tap or taking a shower is thanks to an impressive system of wells, pumps, treatments, booster stations, reservoirs, pipes, and more.

There are two unique exceptions. The Talus neighborhood can receive both types of drinking water, but often their supply comes from CWA. The North Issaquah neighborhood is the only part of town that does not get Issaquah water. Their water comes from Sammamish Plateau Water (SPW), which has its own collection of groundwater wells on the valley floor.

(To learn more about Issaquah's neighborhoods, visit issaquahwa.gov/2973/Neighborhoods.)

What else should I know about Issaquah's drinking water?

Issaquah’s commitment to providing you with safe drinking water is a top priority. This commitment is supported by an incredible network of employees dedicated to operating and maintaining the system that brings clean water to our homes and businesses. Thanks to them, Issaquah consistently meets all its water quality standards requirements.

To meet these requirements, our system is treated regularly to ensure the water you’re using is reliably clean. To learn more about how we treat and test our drinking water, I’d recommend reading Issaquah’s 2019 Water Quality Report.

You should have received a copy of this annual report in your mailbox last year. Keep an eye out for an updated report this summer.

In 2015, Issaquah discovered trace amounts of perfluoroalkyl/polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in one of our groundwater wells. PFAS is a group of chemicals previously and widely used in a number of commercial products. Environmental PFAS contamination can also come from the use of firefighting foams.

After this discovery, Issaquah took action right away.

We installed an advanced filtration system to address the problem, and with that additional treatment, we consistently meet federal standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Since then, we have taken it upon ourselves to be an active leader in this space.

We’re currently in the midst of an effort alongside the Washington State Department of Ecology and Eastside Fire and Rescue to investigate and address potential sources of PFAS contamination on the valley floor. The work of this partnership will help state and federal agencies better understand how to regulate PFAS testing and cleanup. I’m incredibly proud of the work we’re doing here.

Next time you pour yourself a glass of water, I hope you’ll take a moment to think about the big picture. If you have any questions, I’m always happy to connect directly. You can reach me at zachh@issaquahwa.gov or (425) 436-1554.

Issaquah Water Resources 2019 Issaquah Water Quality Report issaquahwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/684 Puget Sound Starts Here pugetsoundstartshere.org Cascade Water Alliance cascadewater.org Sammamish Plateau Water spwater.org Additional Issaquah water resources issaquahwa.gov/478/Water

Editor's Note: Councilmember Zach Hall represents Issaquah as a member of the Cascade Water Alliance Board of Directors.

Have an idea for a future “In the Weeds” column? Email Vicki Grunewald, Highlands Council media editor, at vicki.g@ihcouncil.org.

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ON THE BLOG

This Month on the Blog Resident Business Profile

Living Green

Read these upcoming stories from your Issaquah Highlands neighbors at issaquahhighlands.com/blog.

Your Organized Life

Read About Your Neighbors Who Are Local Business Owners

Leave No Trace: An Interview with Joe Beernink, TrashMob

This Month, Learn to Use What You Have for Better Organization

by Johnna Masterson Owner of Inspired and Organized and Central Park Resident

by Aline Bloch Owner of Aline’s Cardboard and Out of the Box Eco Store and Central Park Resident

by Johnna Masterson Owner of Inspired and Organized and Central Park Resident

Johnna interviews Issaquah Highlands residents who own and operate businesses in Issaquah Highlands. From interior design to insurance, each resident offers a unique story about how they started their business and what they love most about operating a business in our community. Read all past columns at issaquahhighlands.com/tag/residentbusiness-profile.

"I envisioned a place where...total strangers could come together to clean up a park or a neighborhood or a creek together, in and out in two hours, transforming an area plagued by trash into something far more pristine," Joe Beernink said. Aline recently interviewed Joe, an Issaquah Highlands resident who started a website to organize community trash cleanups called TrashMob.

Find connection and joy IN EVERDAY LIVING

University House Issaquah helps you stay engaged and connected—while covering the cooking, cleaning, care if you need it, and more.

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

members.

"One of the most helpful things about using what you already have is you will instantly be on your way to a more organized household. By taking that first step of not purchasing something new to bring into your home, you are starting the decluttering process without even lifting a finger." In this month's column, Johnna helps readers use what they already have for overall better organization.

Five Questions

An Interview with René Ancinas, CEO of Port Blakely

by Christy Garrard Executive Director, Highlands Council and Dahlia Park Resident

To commemorate the final transition of the Issaquah Highlands community from master developer Port Blakely to the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA), Port Blakely CEO René Ancinas speaks about the company's accomplishments and challenges in the community and what the transition means for Port Blakely, the IHCA and Issaquah Highlands residents.

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Project Start

19891990

Port Blakely acquires 2,200 acres of vacant land; defines a vision for an urban village centered around New Urbanism principles of sustainability, walkability, community and economic vitality.

1995

Plans Emerge Plans for a multi-phased, mixed-use development approved, with 1,520 acres of land dedicated to open space, including parks and natural areas.

1996

Community Stability

GRAND RIDGE ELEMENTARY & ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS TRANSIT CENTER ESTABLISHED Residential population reaches 3,000; first retailers move in and open. Blakely Hall is constructed and gifted to the community by Port Blakely as a permanent community center. Grand Ridge Elementary School and 1000-stall Park and Ride Transit Center open.

Infrastructure Established Ground is broken for the community, as water, power, sewer, road infrastructure and Grand Ridge Park are built.

1997

Residential Covenants & Governance Established

IHCA ESTABLISHED A governance structure and a flexible system of standards and procedures is created for the overall development, administration, maintenance, and preservation of Issaquah Highlands as a master-planned community.

20052006

20032004

1998

Residents Move In

Phased Residential Build-Out

HFN ESTABLISHED Home builders acquire land and begin to sell homes; first residents move in.

Community-owned Highlands Fiber Network is created to serve homeowners as the region’s most robust fiber optic communication system.

1989

HIGHLANDS COUNCIL & FIRE STATION 73 ESTABLISHED Multiple phases of single- and multi-family homes are built and occupied. Highlands Council is formed. Fire Station 73, certified as LEED Silver, establishes fire and life safety services.

I-90 Interchange is completed.

2000

PAID ADVERTISING BY PORT BLAKELY

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Community Accepts Responsibility Port Blakely completes its role as Master Developer and bestows remaining jurisdiction to the community. The IHCA, Highlands Council and HFN each assume specific responsibilities as stewards to preserve, manage, enhance and promote the community and serve its residents.

2021 & BEYOND

20092011

2020

Community Matures Residential, multi-family and commercial services are well established, along with community services, amenities and infrastructure to support nearly 12,000 residents.

Regional Medical Facilities Open Proliance Surgeons opens 43,000-square-foot Orthopedic and Sports Medicine center (2009). Swedish Hospital establishes a medical campus, including a 135-bed hospital; public-private partnerships protect land for Park Point and Mitchell Hill (2011).

Residential Independence Issaquah Highlands’ residents assume control of the IHCA, Highlands Council, and the Highlands Fiber Network through a planned transition and acceptance process led by community volunteers.

2014

2015

Commercial & Retail Build-Out Grand Ridge Plaza retail center opens, bringing a grocery store with pharmacy, 12-screen movie theater and mix of restaurants, services and shops to Issaquah Highlands residents.

2010

2020

PAID ADVERTISING BY PORT BLAKELY

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SMART HOME

PREPARING HFN FOR THE Upgrading Our Network Now to Keep You on the Cutting Edge

H

by Jeremy Fallt HFN General Manager and Central Park Resident

ighlands Fiber Network (HFN) is proud to be one of the earliest fiber communities, regarded as a pioneer across the industry. Since the beginning, the network has received numerous upgrades to maintain its quality, so the network can continue to deliver state-of-the-art service. While the upgrades have been significant, most improvements go unnoticed.

Most telecom and communication companies wait for things to break before considering a replacement; however, HFN constantly strives to provide residents with best-in-class service reliability while staying on the cutting edge of future technology. With this in mind, HFN has been upgrading our fiber network so it’s ready for the future.

To prepare the HFN fiber network for the future, our team is upgrading portions of the physical fiber throughout the community. Our team has started upgrading new areas of multimode fiber to single-mode fiber, which will allow for future scalability. Fiber upgrades help with the stability of service to homes and can provide faster speed options in the future. In addition, we have started retrofitting one of the cooling systems in our original data centers, making sure systems stay cool and stable for internet service without interruptions.

HFN upgraded our network’s primary switches to allow more direct connections from our customers to the internet. This has aided in simplifying network complexity and streamlined bandwidth delivery.

A more direct path through our network means lower latency to the world. In simple terms, this means more responsive gaming, less buffering on Zoom calls, and faster/clearer streaming.

We now deploy new switches for customer connectivity in our data centers. This provides for better density and higher capacity, allowing HFN to scale into the future with faster throughput with a smaller physical footprint, and less power consumption. HFN has also started to deploy new internet gateways into customer homes, which will help provide a more resilient network connection.

In total, HFN has nearly $2 million set aside for fiber upgrades as part of our plans to make the network ready for future speed offerings. HFN will continue to strive to be a leader and is continuously taking steps today to make sure we are ready to take the leap when our residents (and the technology) are ready for it.

Highlands Fiber Network: Fiber to the Home, Community Owned

While some network upgrades are obvious, like the placement of new cables to feed the Westridge development, most are unseen. Top, a conduit is ready for the installation of cables in Westridge. The bottom photo shows a completed conduit. Photos provided by Jeremy Fallt.

For rates and information, contact HFN Customer Service: highlandsfibernetwork.com (425) 427-0999 support@hfnservices.com

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EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

How Ready Are You for the Next Emergency?

Prepare Your Family for Earthquakes, Wildfires, and Future Pandemics

Looking back to March 2020, how prepared were you for what was to come?

More than 15 months of isolation, masks, gloves, social distancing, and quarantining were likely not on anyone’s radar at that time, but it happened. Remember stockpiling toilet paper, food, and cleaning and disinfecting supplies when access to stores was limited and shelves were empty? That happened. These are just some of the memories that are easily

by Bob Otis CERT Team 9 Member and forgotten or diminished when thinking about disasters or widespread emergencies.

Dahlia Park Resident Western Washington is growing more susceptible to multiple disrupting events. We need to be ready. A major earthquake, a western Washington wildfire, or a recurrence of a pandemic are a few examples that would rival the timeframe of the current pandemic for recovery. Are you prepared for the next one? Let’s look at these examples and see what might happen and how you might prepare.

Earthquakes

In the case of a 9.0 earthquake (similar to the 1700 Cascadia earthquake), residents of the Issaquah Highlands would likely shelter in place. Doing so would require a supply of water, food, possibly temporary shelter, and medical supplies.

Washington state recommends preparing to spend at least two weeks on your own before any significant help arrives. Keep in mind that power could be disrupted, roads and bridges may be impassable, communications will be minimal (no phones or TV), and transportation would be restricted.

Wildfires

If a wildfire impacted Issaquah Highlands, we may be told to evacuate immediately and without much warning. Have a “go bag” ready with the essentials of food, water, clothing, important documents, and other valuables, and know your evacuation routes. You may need to stay in a shelter until you can return to your house or, in the worst case, find another place to live. We have all heard horror stories from people displaced by wildfires over the past few years, and it could happen here.

Fortunately, there is a wealth of information online to help you prepare for these and other emergencies. It will take more than a day or two, and it may take months or even years (my personal experience), but now is a good time to start. The best place to begin is Ready.gov, which has a list of potential disasters and tips to prepare for each.

While it is worth reading through the specifics of how to prepare for each type of disaster, it's important to note the core preparedness tips that apply to any of them:

Be informed

Use the resources listed on Ready.gov to learn what to expect and what you can do to prepare for emergencies.

Make a family plan

Once you have an idea of what is involved in these disasters, plan ahead. Will you shelter in place or evacuate? How will you communicate? Where will you gather as a family unit from work, home, or school? Again, Ready.gov has examples to help you along.

Build a kit

Store a two-week supply of food and water, medical supplies, personal hygiene products, cash, and important documents.

Don’t forget your pets need kits, too. Find more details on what to include in a kit at Ready.gov/kit.

Get involved

Consider joining a voluntary organization in your community, including Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), Medical Reserve Corps (MRC), or Map Your Neighborhood.

More information is available on Ready.gov or locally on the Issaquah Citizen Corps website, issaquahcitizencorps.org.

Pandemic Recurrence

This is fresh in our minds, so stock up on everything you wish you would have had sixteen months ago. How can we prepare for the next pandemic knowing what we know now?

Want more emergency preparedness tips? Head to our archives!

Find more emergency preparedness tips from Issaquah Highlands CERT Team 9 members and other community leaders at issaquahhighlands.com/tag/emergency-preparedness.

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RENTAL FACILITIES

DIRECTORY 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 NOTE: The IHCA office will return to normal office hours on Tuesday, July 6.

Prior to that date, please call/email ahead to confirm staff availability.

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 Vacant, 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 NOTE: The Highlands Council office will return to normal office hours on Tuesday, August 31.

Prior to that date, please call/email ahead to confirm staff availability.

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 Jim Halas, Blakely Hall Facility Maintenance Coordinator | jim.h@ihcouncil.org * Excluding holidays and private event closures.

HIGHLANDS FIBER NETWORK

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

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.

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

Homestreet Bank

Conference Room 909 Northeast Ellis Dr. | 425-677-2210 homestreet.com/branches/issaquah-branch

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

Fire Station #73 Meeting Room

Sarah Hoey, Executive Director | sarah.h@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1120 Barbara Hendrikse, Senior Accountant & 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 Jordan Rousu, Administrative Assistant | jordan.r@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1126 Billing Inquiries | payments@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119 General Inquiries | asktheihca@ihcommunity.org

Responsible for:

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Community Rooms 930 NE High St. | 425-270-6800 ywcaworks.org/locations/family-village-issaquah

CONNECTIONS 2021 Second Place | 2020 First Place WINNER 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.

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-news 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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