December 2016 by Issaquah Highlands Connections

CONNECTIONS FR

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNIT Y NEWS www.issaquahhighlands.com | facebook.com/issaquahhighlands

Photo by Shubha Tirumale

December 2016

Season of Giving W H AT ’ S I N S I D E ? 4 Thank you Sponsors/ Advertisers 5 Feature: Season of Giving 8 Funny Holiday Photos 9 Emergency Preparedness 10 Highlands Council 11 Volunteer of the Month 11 Arts and Culture 12 IHCA News 15 North Pole HOA

15 16 19 21 21 23 25 26 28 29

Real Estate in IH - WHP What’s Happening Issaquah City News Ask Kari Life in the USA Doing Biz Fitness and Health School Spotlight Living Green Highlands Fiber Network

29 Photo Treasure Hunt 30 Culture through Cuisine 31 Directory

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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December 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

FROM THE EDITOR Dear Issaquah Highlands,

Holiday lights symbolize hope and joy in many religions during the dark months of winter. This month’s cover photo of the community Christmas tree was taken a year ago by Shubha Tirumale, our most prolific volunteer photographer. Well known for her professional photography, Shubha has been very generous in sharing the beauty she finds in the community. Her cover shot is the tree in Village Green Park with lights sponsored by Highlands Council. Elsewhere in the community, the Chabad of the Central Cascades provides two giant menorahs, the IHCA lights the trees along Park Drive, and Grand Ridge Plaza merchants light their shopping center. This light theme threads through the pages of this month’s Connections and fills me with joy as I see the depth and richness of the giving season in the Highlands. This season engages us wherever we are in life. If we can’t give money, we give the gift of volunteer time. If neither of those work, we give gently used items from home. The joy of giving and its light shines for everyone in the Highlands. We focus on this Season of Giving in our feature this month, whose pages were designed by Vicki Grunewald, Highlands Council’s Graphic Designer (Black Nugget Park). She researched charitable opportunities in Issaquah Highlands and greater Issaquah. She distilled their details and packaged them into a festive guide that you can easily make use of during this busy holiday season, as well as the rest of the year. And there’s more inside to get you ready for the holidays. Julie Clegg (Highlands Council’s Creative Coordinator, Dahlia Park) made a gallery of photos you sent us of Issaquah Highlands holidays gone by. Also, find inside: holiday safety tips for pets and children, winter weather guidance and what to cook for the holidays. Find inspiration to review this year’s resolutions and work on new ones. And discover fun and interesting things to do outside the home this holiday season.

Happy Holidays! Nina Milligan Editor of Connections - Highlands Council Communications Manager Highlands Council is the publisher of Connections, producer of community-wide events such as Highlands Day, owner and manager of Blakely Hall, liaison with the greater community.

December 2016

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When the adults buy a large pizza, kids under 12 get two free personal pizzas – or one free personal pizza if the adults only buy a medium size.

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December 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2016

In the S e

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ason of Giving

Seasonâ€™s Greetings! Last year we highlighted the many cultural celebrations that take place this time of year. This month, for your consideration, we focus on local charities and non-profits that have seasonal giving opportunities and/ or year-long programs that rely on the support of communities like ours to fulfill their mission. Giving comes in many forms; money, goods, and time. Perhaps this directory will introduce you to a new organization that matches your own personal passion. Maybe you share this list with your children and decide as a family which and how to support. The gift of time is priceless; volunteering for one of these organizations would make a wonderful New Yearâ€™s resolution. Issaquah Highlands is an incredibly generous community. We hope you are inspired by the following pages. Warm holiday wishes to everyone!

Christy Garrard, Executive Director, Highlands Council

Find these local organizations and many others listed on the following two pages!

This Holiday Season, Consider Giving Locally Local non-profits provide resources for people, animals and the environment in greater Issaquah and right here in Issaquah Highlands. This holiday season, consider helping a local organization with your charitable giving. The following two pages contain a list of local non-profits, fundraisers and collection drives that need your help. This is by no means a complete list. We know there are many more wonderful organizations out there. Hopefully you find this to be a useful resource as you plan your holiday giving. If giving is not possible this year, consider saving this for future reference. While the holiday season is a popular time for giving, non-profit organizations accept donations and need volunteers year-round.

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December 2016

YOUR GUIDE TO

Local Giving Hope on the Hill Guild hopeonthehillguild.org

Mission: The Hope on the Hill Guild’s mission is to “help make a positive difference in the lives of children and their families treated at Seattle Children’s Hospital.” Fundraising helps Seattle Children’s Hospital’s uncompensated care program. Holiday Toy-Drive: This year’s annual toy drive benefits patients at Seattle Children’s Hospital Autism Center, a facility that provides a variety of support and services to families living with autism. Donate new, unwrapped toys at Caffe Ladro in Grand Ridge Plaza or Adventure Kids Playcare on Gilman Blvd. until Jan. 7. Learn more at hopeonthehillguild.org/donate/donateitems. Year-Round Need: Year-round monetary donations contribute to the Seattle Children’s Hospital uncompensated care program. According to the Hope on the Hill website, Seattle Children’s is expected to provide more than $100 million in uncompensated care to children in need this year. Donate online or by mail: hopeonthehillguild.org/donate/ donatemoney. How You Can Help:

artEast Art Center arteast.org

Mission: Their mission is to “exist to promote the visual arts.” Your contributions support visual arts in our community, including youth programs, community events, adult workshops and gallery exhibitions. Highlands Council partners with artEast to bring beautiful exhibits by local artists to Blakely Hall year-round for all of the community to enjoy, for free. Holiday Fundraising Raffle: artEAST is holding a raffle from Nov. 26 through Dec. 7. Stop by artEAST at 95 Front Street North to enter. Each $10 entry gives you a chance

to win half of the money entered into the raffle as an artEAST gift card. artEAST gift cards can be used to make purchases in the gallery, become an artEAST member, and take education classes at artEAST. The drawing will be held on Dec. 8. Raffle entrants do not need to be present to win. Year-Round Need: artEAST also accepts donations online for its Annual Fund at boxoffice.printtixusa.com/artEAST/ donate. Proceeds from the raffle and Annual Fund support programs, including free exhibitions at Blakely Hall and artEAST; free, family-friendly community art-making events; and fee assistance for our youth education classes. How You Can Help:

round at their 24-hour drop-off box, located at 179 1st Avenue SE in Issaquah. Monetary donations can be made online. For more information, visit issaquahfoodbank.org/ donate. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities, too, for adults, kids and groups. How You Can Help:

Issaquah Highlands Connections

How You Can Help Key Donate money Donate items Volunteer time Rescue, an animal rescue animals in need with volunteer foster families. Donate dog and cat food and lightly used or new collars and leashes now until Dec. 31. Learn more about Motley Zoo Rescue at motleyzoo.org. How You Can Help:

YWCA ywcaworks.org

Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank issaquahfoodbank.org Mission: The Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank provides quality food, clothing, household items, toiletries and diapers to families in need throughout our community, in addition to referrals to agencies and organizations and other valuable special services. Lunch for the Break: Help Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank make sure all Issaquah kids have enough to eat during the holiday break by donating a box of grocery items or making a monetary contribution. Go online to register your donation, select a drop-off location and download the list of needed grocery items per box at lunchforthebreak. com. Drop off on Dec. 19 between 2–7pm. Holiday Gift Barn: Help bring joy and happiness to families during the holiday season! Pickering Barn is turned into a giant toy store where qualifying families are invited to shop and choose gifts for their children ages 18 and under. Contribute to the holiday cheer by donating new, unwrapped gifts to the Pickering Barn, Dec. 1-2, between 1-7 pm. Register your donation online and get gift ideas at issaquahfoodbank.org/holiday-gift-barn. IHCA Food & Clothing Drive: Bring your food and clothing donations to the IHCA office until Dec. 15. The IHCA will deliver donations to the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank on Dec. 16. Year-Round Need: The Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank relies on year-round contributions in order to keep their doors open and shelves fully stocked. Donate food, clothing and household items year-

Mission: The YWCA’s ultimate goal is to “eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.” They help women and families get through tough times by providing counseling, financial assistance, food, clothing and shelter. Their Issaquah Highlands location directly helps local residents. Gift Barn Partnership: YWCA families will have the opportunity to receive gifts from the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank’s Holiday Gift Barn. Year-Round Need: You can donate household items, toys and school supplies year-round. Contact Victoria Thai for more information: vthai@ywcaworks. org. Monetary donations helps the YWCA provide essential resources. Donate online at ywcaworks.org/donate. Volunteer opportunities are also available. How You Can Help:

Eastside Friends of Seniors

eastsidefriendsofseniors.org Mission: To provide “vital support and assistance to seniors facing the challenges of aging” in the greater Issaquah and Sammamish areas. Year-Round Need: Donate postage stamps, various all-purpose greeting cards and gift cards from QFC, Safeway, Fred Meyer or Target. Gift cards help offset the cost of fresh produce and even prescription drug bills. Diverse volunteer opportunities are available. Monetary donations can be made online. Contact Heather Downing, Volunteer Coordinator at heather@ eastsidefriends.org or (425) 369-9120 if you are interested in bringing a smile to a few special faces this holiday season. How You Can Help:

Issaquah Philharmonic Orchestra Civilized Nature Holiday Donation Drive civilizednature.com

Help needy animals: Civilized Nature is collecting donations to benefit Motley Zoo

iphil.org Mission: The Issaquah Philharmonic Orchestra is an organization of talented volunteer musicians who perform free community concerts each year. They are “dedicated to providing qualified youth and experienced adults from Issaquah and

Issaquah Highlands Connections surrounding communities an opportunity to perform symphonic music.” Holiday Concert: Hear the Issaquah Philharmonic Orchestra at their upcoming free holiday concert on Dec. 5 at Skyline High School, from 7:30 – 9:00pm. Year-Round Need: The organization is currently seeking volunteer string musicians to play with the group. Non-musical volunteer opportunities are also available. Monetary donations can be made online at iphil.org. How You Can Help:

December 2016

Year-Round Need: Monetary donations are key to providing each rescued dog with proper, sometimes advanced, medical care. Donate online at pupdogrescue. org/general-donation.html. Learn about becoming a foster parent for PUP rescues at pupdogrescue.org/volunteer.html. How You Can Help:

provided in the form of rent or utility payments, medical care, bus tickets and other financial support. Annual Merry Christmas Fund: This annual holiday fundraiser accounts for 65 percent of the organization’s annual budget. Monetary donations can be made by check or online. The organization has a goal to raise $100,000 in this year’s fundraiser. Year-Round Need: Monetary donations are accepted online year-round. Volunteer board and committee member opportunities are available and training is provided for volunteer positions working directly with clients. Learn more at issaquahcommunityservices.org/getinvolved. How You Can Help:

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Village Theatre villagetheatre.org Mission: Village Theater’s mission is “to be a regionally recognized and nationally influential center of excellence in family theatre.” Their goals include commissioning and producing new musicals, training young people in theatre skills and promoting an appreciation of and positive values through live theatre and the arts. Year-Round Need: Its Annual Fund raises funds for promoting new works through the Village Originals program and youth education programming, including KIDSTAGE classes, camps and productions. Donate to their annual fund online or by mail: villagetheatre.org/ issaquah/donate.php. How You Can Help:

Washington Trails Association wta.org

Giving Tree at Grand Ridge Plaza grandridgeplaza.com Holiday Toy Drive: This year, support neighbors in-need by donating toys to the Issaquah Food and Clothing Bank. Ribbons on the Holiday Giving Tree, located in the plaza next to Regal Cinemas and Big Fish Grill, will be labeled with needed gifts. Purchase a new, unwrapped toy or gift item for children up to age 18 and drop it off at Santa’s house in the Winter Woodland at Grand Ridge Plaza. Learn more at grandridgeplaza.com/happenings/holidaytree-lighting. How You Can Help:

Mission: The Washington Trails Association (WTA) works to “preserve, enhance, and promote hiking opportunities in Washington state through collaboration, education, advocacy and volunteer trail maintenance.” Improving Issaquah Highlands trails: Recently, the WTA has hosted a series of volunteer work parties in the Issaquah Highlands to build the new 2-mile Watertower Loop trail at the top of Grand Ridge. The trail is close to completion and a ribbon-cutting ceremony is in the works. This year, the organization put in thousands of volunteer hours improving trails throughout the Issaquah Alps. Year-Round Need: Monetary donations help the WTA protect trails and promote hiking. Donate online at wta.org/support/ donate-join/donate. Trail parties of volunteers make trail improvements and expansion possible. No experience necessary. Find a trail party near you at wta. org/volunteer/schedule. How You Can Help:

PUP Dog Rescue

Red Waggin’ Rescue redwagginrescue.petfinder.com Mission: Red Waggin’ Pet Rescue’s mission is to “rescue, provide vet care for, and find new forever homes for homeless dogs and other animals” from Eastern Washington. Headquartered in Connell, the organization has volunteers and foster homes across the state, including in the greater Issaquah area. Local Success Story: Issaquah Highlands resident, Elizabeth Dixon List, recently fostered her first puppy, Bodie, through Red Waggin’. “He is the sweetest dog and I really wanted him to stay local and end up with a fantastic family so I posted about him on the Issaquah Highlands Facebook page,” List said. “A lot of people reached out, and the family he ended up with couldn’t have been more perfect…It was such a rewarding experience.” Year-Round Need: Red Waggin’ Pet Rescue is most in need of foster homes for homeless dogs and cats. Other volunteer opportunities are available. Monetary donations fund basic and advanced vet care. Learn more about how you can help at redwagginrescue.petfinder.com. How You Can Help:

Life Enrichment Options lifeenrichmentoptions.org Mission: This Issaquah-based organization provides valuable support for individuals with development disabilities and works with them to “achieve their goals through supportive housing, recreation, employment opportunities and community education.” A LEO adult family home is located in Issaquah Highlands. Year-Round Need: Monetary donations can be made online or by mail. Donations will directly contribute to the organization’s mission and help fund a future adult family home location. Volunteers are welcome to join one of the organizations’s local outreach committees or participate in future events. How You Can Help:

pupdogrescue.org Mission: PUP works with local shelters, rescue groups and foster homes to save homeless dogs and find them permanent, loving homes. The organization provides veterinary care for these dogs prior to their adoption and volunteer foster parents begin the house, crate and leash training to prepare them for forever homes. Holiday Collection Drive: Three businesses in Issaquah are sponsoring collection drives for the PUP organization during the holiday season: Mud Bay, Earth Pet and The Grange. Needed items include high quality, grain-free dog food and pee pads.

Issaquah Community Services issaquahcommunityservices.org Mission: Issaquah Community Services provides emergency financial assistance to families in the Issaquah School District with the primary goal of keeping Issaquah families in their homes. Assistance is

Learn more about giving locally For complete details on these and other local giving opportunities, go to the Issaquah Highlands blog or check out our weekly e-letter, hitting your email inbox on Thursday, December 1. issaquahhighlands.org/connect/news-and-media Vector graphics copyright of Vecteezy.com

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December 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Funny Holiday Photos

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2016

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December 2016

HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Embrace the Living Green Mantra: Join the Community Garden The annual lease rate for Vista Gardens is $100 per patch plus 8 hours of volunteer time in maintenance of the Vista garden common area. Vista Gardeners may opt to buy-out of the 8 required volunteer hours for an additional $100. Volunteer buy-out fees are applied to pay for maintenancecontracted services, specific to Vista Gardens, as needed.

Did you know Issaquah Highlands has community gardens? There are 130 individual garden patch spaces, over two locations; two sets of patches at the Vista Gardens and two sets of patches in the Sunset Walk neighborhood. These patches are governed by Highlands Council and managed by a Community Garden Committee made up of resident community gardeners. Community gardening is challenging but fun. You learn to grow your own produce, teach your children where food really comes from, and share ideas and harvest with fellow gardeners. Gardening seminars and work parties happen throughout the year to provide opportunity to improve your growing skills. Sunset Walk Gardens The Sunset Walk patches are located off Park Drive, across from Fire Station 73 in the Sunset Walk neighborhood. These raised patches are smaller than the Vista garden beds and the newest additions to the community. The Sunset Walk patches lease for $75 per year. Vista Patches Resident gardeners built the Vista Gardens by hand, 10 years ago. These 61 patches are located along the paved path between Park Drive at Trail Head Vista and Natalie Way (near Bark Park), just below Black Nugget Park, under the power lines. These rustic beds are framed in wood and are larger than the Sunset Walk patches.

Patch sharing is permissible between two or more gardeners. Current patch holders, in good standing with the Community Garden Committee, and who have met their volunteer service hour requirement, may renew their patch each year. The garden renewal season begins on January 1, 2017. All patches not renewed will be offered to residents on the waiting list in the order they were placed on the waiting list beginning February 1, 2017. For more information on the Issaquah Highlands Community Garden Program or to add your name to the waitlist visit: www.issaquahhighlands.com/community-garden . Questions? Contact Christy Garrard, Executive Director for Highlands Council at 425-507-1110 or Christy.G@IHCouncil.org

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Tis the Season to Review Child and Pet Safety Strangulation Hazards Anything that can be made into a loop and fits over the head is considered a strangulation hazard. Tuck the ends of scarves into your child’s jacket. Holiday lights and garland should be secured with clips spaced close enough together so a child or pet cannot thread their head through the space. Choking Consider your décor; Christmas village displays, nativity scenes, Lights are not the only hazards for your pets and children this dreidels, bowls of candies or holiday. Photo by: EverydayHealth nuts, and other decorations have small pieces that can be easily swallowed by a child or a pet. Use a toilet paper roll as a guide to evaluate hazards. If an object can pass through a roll unobstructed it should be displayed out of reach of little hands and curious sniffers; and not just in the home but at grandparents’, other family and friends’ homes too! Watch out for tinsel and ribbon too! Ingested ribbon and tinsel can cause the intestines of a pet to bunch up. Never pull a ribbon that is extending from the anus of a pet as the ribbon could slice the intestines. Consult your veterinarian immediately! Electrocution Chewing on an electrical cord from holiday lights or decorations can lead to severe mouth burns, alteration of the conduction of the heart, or worse. Cords damaged by adhering with staples or from being chewed on can also cause a short or spark leading to shocking hazard or a potential fire. Poisoning Mistletoe and poinsettias can be toxic to both children or pets if consumed in large quantities. Lilies are extremely dangerous to cats! Lilies are fragrant and festive but every part of the plant, including the pollen, can cause kidney failure. Symptoms include increased salivation, depression, loss of appetite, and vomiting. Keeping your tree watered is critical to fire prevention but make sure your pet cannot drink from the tree to avoid stomach problems from chemicals or stagnation. Pets are part of the family but feeding Fido a sampler platter from the human holiday feast is asking for trouble! Fatty and rich foods can cause diarrhea and stomach upset. Chocolate is toxic to pets, the darker the more dangerous. Grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic are also hazardous to the furry members of the family. You know your kids and pets best. Survey your surroundings for hidden dangers and communicate family rules to ensure your holidays are happy, and festivities are trouble free.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Emily Palm

December 2016

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

My name is Emily Palm, and I am an 8th grade student at PCMS. I play the violin in my school’s wonderful orchestra and dance three times a week. I am also an anchor on my school’s morning broadcast announcements, and partake in lots of public speaking roles. Theatre is also an important part December Volunteer of the Month, Emily Palm of my life. I have been in many shows both in and out of school. I originally got involved with volunteering in the Issaquah Highlands shortly after my family moved here. I applied to the Issaquah Highlands Youth Advisory Board to meet new people, and to help make the Highlands an inviting place for all teens. I love the leadership opportunities I get from being on the board and meeting new people at events. I look forward to many more great memories here in the Issaquah Highlands! If I had to pick a favorite HY event, it would be a very close call, but I would have to say it was our most recent Halloween party. This event was particularly fun for me because I met so many new people who I now see around school. Also, everyone seemed to let loose. Nobody was

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too afraid to try karaoke, or to dance like no one was watching, which made for a really fun event. My second favorite event would be our Back to School Social. I loved watching familiar faces share their amazing talents on stage, which made for wonderful entertainment. At that event, like the Halloween party, people seemed to be mingling outside of their usual friend groups. People were just going up to strangers and starting a conversation, which is bold, but overall really successful. When I see that, it gives me a sense of accomplishment, because it is really our main goal at the HY for everyone to have fun and make a few friends. I have learned countless lessons and leadership skills from being on the HY board. I have learned how to mingle with people I normally would be too shy to talk to. Although at first, it may seem intimidating, members on the board learn how to make friends and it creates a really happy and positive environment at our events. I have also learned how to contribute to a group setting. I have still not mastered contributing in meetings, but I am improving greatly. Last, but certainly not least, I have learned how to handle responsibilities maturely and professionally. We are given a lot of responsibility on the board, but we are always given a partner or teammate to help. We learn how to contact business professionals in pursuit of supplies for events. We learn how to tackle projects with a time limit. And as challenging as these may sound, there is always a whole team of people to back you up if you should need help. I am so grateful for the experiences I have had on the Issaquah Highlands Youth Advisory Board, and I am so excited for the future of this amazing board!

Teenagers and the Arts by Kathryn Dean with special guest, Carolyn Dean

Volunteer of the Month Emily Palm at HY Halloween Party signing Karaoke

ARTS & CULTURE

Years ago in a small town in Indiana a teacher with a love of music and a vision picked three middle school girls who could sing and taught us Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy of Company B. We practiced in his classroom during study hall and lunchtime watching the Andrews Sisters version on VHS tape while singing our parts into large colorful foam headed microphones. (It was the 80’s after all.) He spent his own money at the Army surplus store to supply us authentic looking costumes for our debut at the Grandparent’s Day concert. I hesitate to throw around the term “life-changing experience,” but the fun we had pulling that off and the enjoyment of the the audience catapulted me into many years of musical performance. Back in the day, Kathryn Dean (center) found her love for performing arts in middle school, photographed here with her co-stars in Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.

That love of music has also been passed on to my kids. They’ve been in orchestra, choir, select choirs, and musicals.

Music has many benefits for children and teens. Beyond the proven effects on the brain and academics, performing builds confidence and provides a creative outlet. The emotional component of music also tends to create strong friendships within music groups and shared musical experiences. My daughter, Carolyn, wanted to share this about her experience: Whether it be the smiles on the audiences faces while watching their children live out a small portion of their dream or it be the shaky hands of backstage teenagers about to go on, the arts are enjoyable for pretty much anyone. The Issaquah school district has done an impeccable job with funding, supporting and allowing these wonderful programs to happen. Being in the cast of the current show has been a blast and a blessing as have many shows I’ve been a part of through these programs. Through PCMS choir I learned so much, and it prepared me for the skills I needed for high school level performing arts. At the same time, I had lots of fun meeting new people and dancing in crazy shows. Some of these wonderful people include my current cast members in the show “Joseph and the Technicolor Dream Coat”. Hailey Palm shares that through the arts program she’s made lifelong friends and absolutely loves getting the opportunity to perform. Another fellow cast member Sam Leon says everyday he learns something new, for example, how to put on mascara and remove it efficiently. Something he never thought he’d need to know before starring in musicals. Another local Highlands’ resident Kelly Hodder shares that through these programs she’s found a true passion for acting and has enjoyed the wonderful people and environment. I also asked the Director, Ms. Earlene DeLeon, how she felt about working this year at Issaquah High School. She shared with me that starting out she didn’t know what to expect but was pleasantly surprised. She stated, “Issaquah High students are some of the most talented I’ve ever worked with - each with an individual range of skills and talents.”

Indie Cowan, Hailey Palm, Alaina Dean, Marissa Conter, Kelly Hodder, and Sam Leon goofing around at rehearsal for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

We are privileged to live in a community that strongly supports the arts. Through generous funding from the Issaquah Schools Foundation and teachers dedicated to excellence, our teenagers have opportuniies to grow and flourish in music and art. I’m sure when they are grown, many will be able to point back to a pivotal time when a special teacher or musical moment made the arts forever a part of them…without or without the colorful foam mic. Support your talented Highlands’ youth at these December performances: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat – Issaquah High School, November 30thDecember 3rd Issaquah Middle School Chorus Concert – Tuesday, December 6th, 6:30pm Pacific Cascade Middle School Winter Concert – Monday, December 12th, 7-9pm Grand Ridge Chorus Winter Concert – Tuesday, December 13th, 6:30pm Issaquah High School’s Candlelight Concert – Tuesday, December 13th, 7pm Evergreen Philharmonic Concert – Saturday, December 17th, 5:30pm

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December 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Lyle Dickey, IHCA’s New Landscape Manager

Lyle’s IH Journey From 2002 – Present

Earlier this year we said “good bye” to Russ Ayers who had been our landscape manager and had worked in Issaquah Highlands since 2005. Under Russ’s leadership, Lyle Dickey worked as the landscape supervisor and has worked in the Highlands since 2002 in various positions. It should come as no surprise that when we started the interview process, Lyle’s resume was included. We interviewed multiple candidates who had extensive knowledge in the landscape industry. At the end of the day Lyle’s dedication, experience and vast knowledge of our complex landscape and irrigation system made him the most qualified candidate. Collectively Lyle and I will be reviewing the landscape department operations procedures and make corrections as necessary to provide the best landscaping service for community. Please help us congratulate Lye Dickey for his new role and his continued dedication to Issaquah Highlands. Lyle can be reached by email at Lyle.d@ihcommunity.org

I started working in Issaquah Highlands with Teufel in 2002 working in the town center area. My first real project was the Timmaron neighborhood which was located above the newly installed Ashland Park. For the next six years, I worked as a landscape construction team member. In 2008, I was hired by Port Blakely to supervise the in-house landscape maintenance and construction deptartment.

by Sarah Hoey, Executive Director, IHCA

IHCA Welcomes New Community Manager

Please help us welcome Jessica Dorsey to the IHCA team. Jessica will be starting with the IHCA community manger team on November 21, 2016. Jessica comes to us with years of property management experience and we are looking forward to having her part of the team! Jessica Dorsey - jessica.d@ihcommunity.org 425-507-1113.

Kudos this month go to the observant resident who reported that someone had dumped several gallons of paint in the open space between Villaggio and View Ridge. Thanks to this vigilant individual, our maintenance manager, Matthew Hendrikse, used his sleuthing expertize and traced one of the cans to the store it had come from. The store staff was able to trace it to the purchaser, a company that was doing a house painting job in Issaquah Highlands. When the company was contacted, they apologized profusely for the behavior of their employee and came and cleaned up the mess!

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS PUBLIC NOTICE NO. 16-006 A home business application has been submitted to the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) Board of Directors from an owner at 1371 Huckleberry Circle. The business application is for a city licensed Lash Extension Studio. The public comment period will be December 1, 2016 through December 15, 2016. Residents may provide their comments on the business application via email to homebusinessapp@ihcommunity.org. This public notice and the application are posted at issaquahhighlands.com.

IHCA Holiday Office Schedule: • Closed for Christmas Holiday Monday, December 26th • Closed for New Year’s Day Holiday Friday, December 30th

by Lyle Dickey, IHCA Landscape Manager

My involvement in the Highlands started when I drove up and saw Ashland Park. At that time everyone entered the community off Black Nugget Road, which took you right past Ashland Park - what a nice welcome to the community every morning! The rest of Issaquah Highlands was just being developed but the street infrastructure had already been completed, so you could envision what Port Blakey was trying to achieve. The 1st Highlands Day I attended was held at Swedish hospital. Looking back, that was a long time ago. My goal as the new Landscape Manager is to help guide the Highlands into the future by ensuring continuity of landscaping plans with new construction, installation of advanced irrigation systems to utilize smart water use, and develop a master plan for vegetation and trees replacement using green and eco-friendly practices to ensure sustainability. I was asked during my interview, “What do you wish the residents knew about the landscaping crew in the Highlands and the work that you do?” I wish the residents knew the vast scope of work that is needed to keep the Highlands looking great for everyone in the community. This is a very large undertaking with the trails, open spaces, common areas, parks and streetscapes. But it is all worth it when you get a “thank you” or a pat on the back from one of the residents. We have seven in-house landscaping crew members and work with three separate independent landscaping companies to ensure that everything runs smoothly. This really is a beautiful community – I hope you get out and enjoy it.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2016

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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Talking Trash – Everything You Need to Know by Collene Cordova, Owner Services Coordinator-Compliance

Issaquah Highlands is a wonderful community that takes pride in how well the area is maintained. Homeowners and tenants have responsibilities in property maintenance, especially when it comes to trash. The Issaquah Highlands is governed by Use Restrictions and Rules (URR’s), which include certain rules that all must abide by. Trash Cans The rule in the Issaquah Highlands URR’s regarding trash is as follows: Any trash (grey), recycling (blue), or yard waste (green) containers and/or bags and other trash containers must be stored indoors (garage or Architectural Review Committee (ARC) approved enclosure) during non-pickup hours. Trash cans may only be placed at the curb/street for pickup 12 hours prior to and 12 hours after pickup time. The ARC will consider variance requests in accordance with the variance policy in section 4.5 of the Declaration under the following circumstances: a. Topography b. Natural Obstructions c. Hardship This means that once the garbage has been picked up, all three cans must be moved indoors either to the garage or an ARC approved outdoor trash enclosure. No cans should be stored in your backyard or side yard, even if you have a fenced in yard. The reason for this is our proximity to wildlife, especially bears, which are drawn to the smell of trash cans and can pose a serious safety risk to both you and your neighbors. Leaving your cans outside can result in a violation notice and possible fine. If you are interested in installing an outside trash can enclosure, please contact Erika North at Erika.N@ihcommunity.org and she will help you determine if that is an option for you and help with the ARC approval process. Holiday Tree Removal To dispose of your holiday tree, cut off the branches and cut the tree trunk into pieces and place in your green yard waste container for pickup by Recology. If you would rather have a no fuss method while supporting a good cause, the Sammamish Boy Scout troops will be in our community on Saturday, January 7, 2017 for their 32nd annual holiday tree curbside pickup and recycling fundraiser. If you would like more information, please visit their website at scouttreedrive.org.

IHCA Accounting Update

Independent Auditor’s Report We are pleased to announce that Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) has received an unqualified “clean” opinion on our Independent Auditor’s Report. It states that IHCA financial statements for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2016 appear presented fairly and in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. The audit was completed by Cagianut & Company, CPA. The audit report is posted at issaquahhighlands.com. Homeowner Billing Assessments The homeowners of IHCA will be mailed semi-annual assessment statements by December 8, 2016. These statements are mailed in December and June. We are in the process of bringing on a 3rd party billing services provider to make this process more efficient and effective. You will notice a different look and feel in your billing statements: full-color, clear and concise statements. We are planning to launch this with your December 8, 2016 billing cycle.

Issaquah Highlands Use Restrictions & Rules Reminders:

Pet Waste Please be courteous to your neighbors and pick up after your pets. Not only does this include picking up in the designated dog parks but also the streetscapes, trails, community parks, neighbor’s lawns and don’t forget your own lawn. For your convenience, pet waste receptacles can be found throughout the community. Park Trash Our Private Parks are here for your enjoyment but also have rules regarding trash clean up: Cleanup - The User shall clean up all litter, trash, and any other debris and restore the Parks to a clean and orderly condition within 24 hours after the conclusion of any Event or activity. The parks are equipped with trash receptacles but they can sometimes become full, especially during the busy summer months. If you have a party or function in one of the parks and the trash can is already at capacity when you arrive, please pack out your trash so that we don’t attract wildlife. If you would like a copy of the current Use Restrictions and Rules, they can be found on our website at www.issaquahhighlands.com or you can contact me at Collene.C@ihcommunity. org and I will email you a copy. Thank you for doing your part in making this community a beautiful place to call home.

Residents on the monthly electronic bank debit payment (ACH) plan will receive statements for informational purposes only and no payment is required (if there are no delinquent balances). Residents on the semi-annual payment plan must pay with check for six months of the assessment period. The payment is due by January 10, 2017. Now you also have the option to pay on-line with free eCheck or Credit Cards (fees apply) with our bank’s payment portal. Their link will be available through issaquahhighlands.com. We encourage semi-annual payers to convert to the monthly ACH payment plan; nearly 80% of the residents are on this plan. An ACH form is provided with your billing statement. Please direct inquiries to 425-507-1119 or payments@ihcommunity.org.

ARC Tip of the Month:

Did you know… that builders often install small bushes and trees that, in time, grow way too big for the surrounding area? Removing and/or replacing these overgrown items requires ARC approval. The process is simple… Just complete and submit an application that can be found on the website, www.issaquahhighlands.com. There is no fee, review is immediate and approval can be given without having to present at an ARC meeting. Now is an excellent time to replant!

The Issaquah Highlands Use Restrictions and Rules were recently updated and became effective November 1, 2016. Please visit our website at issaquahhighlands.com to download a copy for your use. See especially the rules about holiday decorations. Thank you for doing your part.

Do you have a question about homeowner responsibilities, or how our common areas are managed? Complete the simple form in the IHCA section of IssaquahHighlands. com and we will respond to you promptly. Your questions (and our answers) might be shared here, in the next issue of Connections. Hi! We are about to purchase a property in Issaquah Highlands and would like to know the process to remodel the powder room (install a shower). Our parents live with us who are old and cannot climb stairs for taking baths every day. Please suggest what applications we need to submit to the HOA to get approval to get this conversion. – Prospective Homeowner

ASK THE IHCA

Thank you for contacting the IHCA. It is good of you to inquire about HOA procedures prior to purchasing a home with an HOA. Thank you! Our HOA, the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) guidelines do not require architectural approval (ARC) for interior work so long as it does not alter the exterior of your home or violate city building codes. When adding new plumbing features to a home, I recommend contacting the City of Issaquah permitting department prior to beginning your remodeling project. Their number is: 425-837-3100. On behalf of the IHCA staff and all of us here in Issaquah Highlands, Welcome Home! To learn more about the structure of the IHCA, Highlands Council and HFN Network, please visit our community website at issaquahhighlands.com.

We look forward to hearing from more of you. Please keep submitting your questions for them to be featured in the next issue. Sarah Hoey, CMCA®, AMS® Executive Director Issaquah Highlands Community Association

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December 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

IHCA Future Maintenance Shop

In its current location there is no running water, bathroom facilities, shelter or secure storage for the fleet, equipment or landscape and maintenance crews. The IHCA Board of Directors has approved the construction of a 3,000 square foot maintenance facility which will be built on IHCA land in the current storage area off Park Drive, below Trail Head Vista. On behalf of the IHCA staff, I would like to personally thank the volunteer Board of Directors and homeowners for approving and supporting this facility which will be built in the months ahead. Sincerely, Sarah Hoey

IHCA Maintenance Facilities Before

IHCA Maintenance Facilities After

When Snow is Falling in the Highlands

by Collene Cordova, IHCA Owner Services Coordinator-Compliance The forecasters at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center have recently issued the forecast for this winter and it looks like we are in for a La Nina system which means that those of us living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest will experience colder and wetter conditions. This is very good news for our local skiers but that also means that we will have a very good chance at seeing some of the powdery white stuff on our streets. The IHCA does not own the streets or sidewalks and therefore are not responsible for snow removal. The City of Issaquah has created a map of snow plowing priorities based on three levels. Highlands Drive and NE Park Drive are given Priority 1 while major streets throughout the Highlands are given Priority 3. Because many of our interior streets are narrow and often have cars parked on both sides of the street, this makes it difficult for the larger plowing trucks to safely clear our streets. IMC 12.09.030: It is the owner’s responsibility to keep their sidewalk “safe” which includes clearing snow. Shoveling is the best method of snow removal. Ice melt products may be used but follow the directions on the packaging as some brands can damage plants, grass and concrete when over applied. With the snow comes new activities for our neighborhood children. Please make sure that when sledding in parks to stay away from trees and play structures to avoid injury. Streets and sidewalks are not considered safe for sledding. Most importantly, stay safe and enjoy the peace and beauty that comes with a winter wonderland.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2016

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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION NORTH POLE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION c/o Mr. B.A. Humbug, Covenant Compliance Department Glacial Management Company COURTESY LETTER Dear Mr. Claus, We are instructed by the Board of Directors to inform you of the following violations: Covenant Violation Descriptions: Your sleigh is a recreational vehicle, which is prohibited by the covenants. When we told you to move it from your yard, we did not intend for you to place it on your roof. Please remove it from your premises. Red and green colors on your house clash with the common scheme of the neighborhood. You must choose approved colors from our color book and submit an application for repainting to the Architectural Review Committee. You are feeding wild animals which are diseased. The sickest is the one with the shiny red nose. Some would even say it glows. You must discontinue this practice immediately, or we will call animal control. We are concerned that the glowing nose may be the result of radioactive waste, so we demand that you allow a health inspector access to your yard.

You are storing toys and games in a huge canvas sack in your yard. Be advised that all outdoor storage must be approved by the Architectural Review Committee, and must be of the same style and finish as your house. It appears that you are operating a day care center and/or workshop in violation of the covenants. Through the fence we hear the sound of laughing, playing games, and shouting out with glee. There are numerous small persons on your property and the clatter and activity is disruptive. The amount of mail you are receiving exceeds what will fit in your ARC approved mailbox, so you must make arrangements with the Postal Service for alternate delivery at a post office box or a business address. You have made unauthorized modifications to your home which allow you to enter and exit through the chimney. You must submit an ARC application for your new entry, including evidence that it meets all state and local codes and is in harmony with other homes. If your application is disapproved, you will be required to restore the chimney to its prior condition. You have been observed making a list and checking it twice, finding out who is naughty or nice. Be advised you have no authority to do that and it is divisive. It is the function of the Covenant Compliance Department to determine who is naughty or nice. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding in complying with this letter. If you do not comply within ten days, we will refer these violations to our attorney. Respectfully, North Pole Homeowners Association

REAL ESTATE IN THE HIGHLANDS

West Highlands Park

by Aimee Holy, Erik Mehr & Associates and Dahlia Park Resident Do you know where West Highlands Park is? Located at the base of the Issaquah Highlands, it is hidden away but has quick access to I-90, Highlands amenities and Swedish Hospital. West Highlands Park was developed by Bennett/CamWest beginning in 2008 with first sales in 2009. This densely packed neighborhood is a mix of townhomes and single family homes that are tall and slender, like town homes. Great views are available from many of the homes, especially from the homes along the ridge, which are more typical of a single-family style. Small parks and green space are sprinkled through out community making for easy access for children’s play and evening strolls. West Highlands Park homeowners pay dues to the IHCA plus to the neighborhood, totaling approximately $144-$215 a month. As with all homes, West Highlands values have gone way up. Single family homes bought in 2013 for $500K are selling for over $700K. One is currently pending for $849K. The townhomes are currently selling for the mid $500’s with initial investments in the mid $200’s. Townhomes in West Highlands Park with a price point in the mid $300’s are part of the ARCH program. ARCH is “A Regional Coalition for Housing”. ARCH homes can be found throughout the Highlands. ARCH assists member governments in developing housing policies, strategies, programs, and development regulations; coordinates the cities’ financial support to groups creating affordable housing for low– and moderate-income households; and assists people looking for affordable rental and ownership housing. ARCH homes have a price cap for which they can be sold, must be owner-occupied and have an income cap which will depend on the unit. For more information on the ARCH program go to: archhousing.org The residents at WHP are about to have some new neighbors. Polygon is prepping the parcels of empty land to their east and south to develop single family and townhouse style homes. Then there is the highly controversial “L” shaped 20 acres that Shelter Holdings

Many of the West Highlands Parks homes have great views of Lake Sammamish and the Issaquah Alps.

owns and is considering building 1,800 residences and retail on. The Shelter Holding parcel runs North from Discovery Drive along 9th Ave NE and along Discovery Drive North of Swedish Hospital. (Editors Note: Watch for news on this in February’s “Development Update” Connections.)

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December 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS Kids & Families

Club Inclusive

Thursday, December 8th, 6pm Blakely Hall Sponsored by LEO and Athletes for Kids

A club for kids with special needs focused on acceptance and inclusion. A safe and fun place where kids can be themselves. Contact Alicia Spinner at alispinner@yahoo.com Also see facebook.com/ClubInclusiveBlakeyHall/

Minecraft Mania

Tuesday, December 13th, 5pm Cancelled December 27th Blakely Hall

Join fellow elementary and middle school Minecraft enthusiasts from novice to expert as we share our knowledge of the Minecraft world including Redstone, building, surviving the night and more. You’ll need a laptop with licensed Minecraft loaded on it. Club leader is Quinn Ryan at boxcargriz@gmail.com and parent leader is Tim Ryan at dadtime@gmail.com.

Toddler Playgroup

Every Wednesday, 10am Cancelled December 7th, 21st, 28th Blakely Hall Newborn to Age 4

Moms, dads, caregivers and their children are invited for fun, friendship, support and socializing. Contact katiels84@gmail.com or Alicia Spinner at alispinner@yahoo.com. Also see facebook.com/IssaquahHighlands.coopplaygroup

Russian Highlanders Kids Club

Thursday, December 1st, 9:30am Blakely Hall

Interior Design Club

World Cultures

Monday, December 12th, Noon Blakely Hall

This club welcomes interior design enthusiasts to enjoy presentations from guest speakers about residential and commercial design; new trends in furniture, color, staging, Vastu and Fen Shui, window treatments, floorings and more. Contact: meetamehta@putali.org

Chinese Heritage Club Cancelled in December Blakely Hall

Knit for Life®

Every Monday, 1pm Swedish Medical Center, Main Lobby

A network of volunteer knitters in area hospitals, providing physical and mental support in a non-traditional therapeutic environment to cancer survivors, patients and caregivers through knitting. We teach anyone with any skill level. You don’t have to bring anything but yourself. We have all the supplies you will need. Contact: Elaine.Eckert@yahoo.com

Open Mic

Friday, December 23rd, 6:30pm Blakely Hall

Please come and join us for an evening of fun and entertainment from local talents. All ages are welcome. We welcome those who wish to play music, read poetry, tell a story, or perform a standup comedy routine. Please remember this is a family event and everyone is expected to show respect to performers and audience. Performers are limited to 2 songs or 10 minutes, whichever comes first. For more info, please contact: Dino Go at kabalen.geo@gmail.com.

Photography Club Cancelled in December 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

Poker Night

Please join us once a month for a fun hour of music, stories and games in Russian language for kids ages 2.5-4.5. Younger kids and siblings are welcome, just bring some toys to keep the kids engaged. Wonderful opportunity for you spend time with Russian speaking families, to make new friends and learn, preserve and enrich the Russian cultural traditions. All are welcome! We hope to see you there. Questions? Please contact Elena at 860-716-6467

Cancelled in December Blakely Hall

New! SCRATCH-ing the Surface

Rovin’ Fiddlers

A new club for kids interested in coding and pursuing a future in computer science. For elementary and middle school-aged kids. Every 1st and 3rd Tuesdays. Contact is Sharon Godavarthi. See sharongodavarthi.Wixsite.com/mysite or IssaquahHighlands.com/events for more information.

Drop in on our jam sessions. We welcome guitars, flutes, whistles, banjos, mandolins, autoharps, dulcimers, stand up bass, and percussion. All abilities welcome. Contact Sue at bellesue@comcast.net.

First meeting: Tuesday, January 17th, 5:00pm Blakely Hall

Arts & Cards Art in Blakely Hall

Blakely Hall “Anything Goes – Within Reason”

This eclectic show continues through January 24th.

Bridge Club

Monday, December 5th, 7pm Blakely Hall

Grab a partner or come solo to play a little Bridge! Bring your own beverage of choice and a snack to share. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned bridge player, you are welcome to join us. We play the first Monday of every month starting at 7 p.m. RSVP: Contact Chuck Leininger at: cleininger@seattletimes.com or David Trowern at: dtrowern@gmail.com.

Whether you are a novice or a salty vet looking for some steep competition, you will love our monthly group for $40 buy-in, No-Limit Texas Hold ’em tournament! Don’t forget to join us on Facebook for all the latest info and results at our “Issaquah Poker” group page. Contact Henry at hlh1969@hotmail.com.

Latino Club

Cancelled in December Blakely Hall

The Latino Club welcomes everybody who would like to celebrate and learn about Latino traditions. We have activities for kids, adults and seniors. Open to all – join the fun! Contact Alicia Spinner at alispinner@yahoo.com

India Culture Club

Monday, December 26th, 7pm Blakely Hall

Come learn about beautiful India! This club highlights the arts, culture, and festivals and is open to all who want to explore and learn about India. Topics for our meetings may include preparing for a trip to India, basic overview of languages, places to visit, arts and cultural landmarks to visit, etc. Let’s celebrate and share cultural riches of India in our community together! Contact: Anita at aani001@gmail.com

Travel Club Night See where it takes you! December 14th, 7pm Blakely Hall Holiday Party, Mexican Themed. Bring something to share.

The bulk of the evening will be unstructured, get acquainted time so we can all share and learn about travel. Light snacks are provided but feel free to bring a beverage (perhaps a bottle of wine from your favorite country!) to enjoy. We hope to see you there. Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/ issaquahhighlandstravelclub or Email ihtravelclub@gmail.com

Russian Highlanders Kids Club * See Kids & Families

Every Tuesday, 7pm Either at the Issaquah Highlands Fire Station 73 or Issaquah Senior Center

Yarns & Threads Group Every Friday, 9am Blakely Hall

This club promotes and preserves the unique Chinese cultural heritage awareness among the next generation for many local families. We welcome everyone who is interested in a neighborhood celebration for many traditional Chinese/American festivals right at Issaquah Highlands. The club meets monthly, usually at Blakely Hall. bowbow.gu@outlook.com

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

Fitness Hatha Yoga Classes Saturday Every Saturday, 10:30am Cancelled December 24th and 31st Blakely Hall

Join us every Saturday for free Yoga! Hatha Yoga Classes are for anyone interested, including neophytes wanting to try yoga for the first time, the experienced looking to improve, and anyone in-between. Yoga class will be led by Melanie and her mother, Deyin. For more information, contact deyiny@microsoft.com

Running Club

Every Saturday, 8am Central Park Tennis Courts

Please contact Joey at jbc224@cornell.edu, so he can add you to the distribution list. See Facebook - Issaquah Highlands Running and Multi-sport

*All Events are FREE unless otherwise noted.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2016

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS Yami Yoga Classes Sunday Every Sunday, 7:45am Blakely Hall

Don’t Miss This!

Join these free yoga classes for a systematic organized teaching as it is supposed to be, as opposed to treating yogasanas as mere exercises. Yoga guru Kiran Balijepalli will not only teach correct physical posture, but also explain the conceptual basis for these different yogasanas. No prior experience required. Please bring your own yoga mat and do not eat anything for at least two hours before (except drinking coffee/tea/milk/water). Contact: srik.satya@gmail.com

Parent’s Night Out

Zumba Fitness Class

Help us make a difference in our community! The Issaquah Highlands Community Association is hosting a food drive for the Issaquah Food and Clothing Bank. Drop off donations at their office, at the corner of 10th Ave NE and High Street, next door to Allegro Pediatrics between 9am-5pm, MondayFriday, through December 15th. The IHCA team will deliver your donations to the Issaquah Food and Clothing Bank on December 16th.

Every Tuesday, 7pm Cancelled December 6th and 20th Every Saturday, 9am Cancelled December 24th and 31st Blakely Hall

Zumba Fitness is the Latin and world rhythm and dance based fitness party that will change the way you think about working out. Grab your workout clothes, your water bottle, and join the party! Free class but please bring a nonperishable food item to donate to the food bank! For additional information, email zumbawithcindy@gmail.com.

Special Interest Book Club

Location & Dates vary

The book club is a great place to meet neighbors and explore a variety of books. Date and location sometimes change, so be sure to email lindsey8@gmail.com to be added to the Facebook group.

Family History Night

Tuesday, December 20th, 8pm Blakely Hall

Genealogy Made Easy! Come join other Issaquah Highlands family history enthusiasts in an informal setting designed to make genealogy research fun. Bring your laptop or tablet and some basic information about your family and discover your heritage. Find your ancestors and build a digital family tree. All events are free and open to the community. We meet each Third Tuesday. Contact: Darrell Reising, dreising@gmail.com or 425-427-1417. highlandsfamilyhistorygroup.com

Meaningful Movies

Wednesday, February 22nd, 6:30pm Blakely Hall

Meaningful Movies provides social justice and environmental documentary films followed by community discussion. Every other month the movies are screened at Blakely Hall. Alternate months are at the Issaquah Historic Train Depot. meaningfulmovies.org/neighborhoods/issaquah-wa/

Toastmasters Club

Every Wednesday, 7am Swedish Medical Center 2nd Floor Conference Center

Join us to improve your communication skills. To find out more, visit the club website at toastmastersclubs.org or drop in any Wednesday as a guest.

Wine Club

Cancelled in December Blakely Hall

Come out and meet your fellow wine lovers in the Highlands! Are you a wine enthusiast, connoisseur, or just a fan? We usually get together the second Friday of each month to discuss and enjoy wine. If interested please send an email to Dianne at danielsondd@yahoo.com for details. Please RSVP the Tuesday prior to the event.

Friday, December 2nd, 6pm Blakely Hall

The HY (Highlands Youth) are hosting their second annual Parent’s Night Out. Pre-registration was required with payment by November 18th. Space was limited.

IHCA Holiday Food Drive Through December 15th

Grand Chanukah Celebration Sunday, December 25th, 5pm Blakely Hall

Join the Chabad of the Central Cascades as they provide a special annual celebration on the first night of Chanukah. Fun for the whole family.

Governance Mtgs Highlands Council Board of Trustees

Tuesday, 12/6, Noon, Blakely Hall

IHCA Architectural Review Committee

Tuesday, 12/6, 6:00 pm IHCA Office

IHCA Finance Committee

Tuesday, 12/13, 5:30 pm IHCA Office

Highlands Fiber Network Advisory Group TBD, 5:45 pm Blakely Hall

IHCA Board of Directors

Wednesday, 12/28, 5:30 pm, IHCA Office Meetings are subject to change. See Calendar at issaquahhighlands.com for more information or date changes. For City of Issaquah governance meetings, see http://issaquahwa.gov

Holidays

Christmas Tree Recycling Saturday, January 7th, 9am

Now in its 32nd year, the Boy Scout troops on the plateau run a fund-raising drive by collecting Christmas trees and recycling them. Place your trees on the curb with a donation by 9AM. Please place your donation in an envelope affixed to the bottom of the tree with a rubber band (place envelope inside a ziploc bag in bad weather). $15-$30 per tree suggested donation. All your donations go directly to fund the local Scouting programs. Please make checks payable to “Boy Scouts of America”. Please place the tree curbside in front of your residence. If that is not possible, place the tree at the nearest cross street corner. Trees need to be out before 9 AM before pickup begins.

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Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Wednesday, December 7 (75th anniversary)

Prophet Muhammed’s Birthday Monday, December 12, 2016

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe 2016 Monday, December 12, 2016

Winter Solstice

Wednesday, December 12th

Chanukah (First Day) Sunday, December 25th

Christmas

Sunday, December 25th

Kwanzaa

Monday, December 26 (to Jan. 1)

New Year’s Day Sunday, January 1st

Holiday Closures IHCA Office Closed December 26th and December 30th Highlands Council and Blakely Hall Closed December 23rd and 26th January 2nd

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December 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Advice from Santa’s Backup

December 2016

ISSAQUAH CITY NEWS

Issaquah police officers are increasing patrols to avert thefts during the year’s busiest shopping days. Think of them as Santa’s backup.

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Go Green This Holiday Season

Here are some easy tips you can use to prevent crime from ruining your holiday cheer:

The holiday season is a great time to go green and help preserve the planet for ourselves and future generations. As a bonus, going green can also save money and reduce stress. While we feast, give gifts, and travel this holiday season, we also consume a lot of resources and generate lots of waste. The amount of household garbage in the United States can increase by 25% from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. To help lessen your impact—and your stress level—we’re offering tips to go green this holiday season.

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Lock your vehicle every time you leave, even for a short time. Don’t leave valuable items in plain view. Don’t leave your vehicle running unattended. If you place items in the trunk, do it discreetly or before you arrive at your destination. If you see somebody acting suspicious or looking into vehicles, call police at 425-837-3200.

Use #SantasBackup to find tips and photos from police throughout the season.

Plan Ahead: Holiday Closures

• Give experiences instead of stuff, to help reduce waste from the production and packaging of goods. • Compost your food scraps and be sure to use and eat all of your leftovers to reduce food waste. • Donate excess food to food banks and old toys to charities. • Upgrade to LED efficient holiday lights and recycle the old ones. • Wrap gifts in recycled or reused paper. • Make sure you use compostable plates and utensils when it comes to big celebrations. • Shop locally, walk, bike or take public transportation when available.

Mark your calendars! City offices will be closed the following dates: • December 23 & 26 • January 2

In case of emergency, please contact police at 911 or the non-emergency line at 425-8373200. Thank you, and have a safe and fun holiday season!

Thanking an IH Resident City Volunteer Geoff Walker has volunteered on the City of Issaquah’s Urban Village Development Commission (UVDC) since 2000 and as its Chairman since 2005. The commission reviews land use applications to ensure “conformance with policies, goals and objectives” in governing documents, such as the Grand Ridge Development Agreement, Issaquah Highlands’ governing document. In 2015-2016 Geoff served as the Vice Chair of the Traffic Task Force. (IH resident and IHCA Director, Jim Noel, was Chair). The Task Force was formed to implement public outreach and evaluation of traffic issues and to present a plan including a list of solutions and recommendations for funding. Geoff is a regular attendee and contributor to public meetings in Issaquah Highlands. He and his family (and much of his extended family) were among the first homeowners in Issaquah Highlands in 1998. We asked Geoff why he volunteers, and remains engaged over these 16+ years: Why did your family choose to live into IH? There were only ten homes here when we moved in. We couldn’t yet see it, but we believed in the vision of a walkable, mixed-use and vibrant community. Why did you volunteer for the UVDC and why do you continue to serve? I saw it as an opportunity to get involved and help shape the community my family and I were to live and invest in over time. I’ve stayed on the Commission all these years because I feel an obligation to see it through and to continue providing a resident’s perspective. I imagined it would have been completed long before now…. What impact has the UVDC had on development in the Highlands? The UVDC provides checks and balances. When a developer presents their application to the City, the staff helps them submit a compliant application. Then we make sure it fits in with the character of Issaquah Highlands, from a long-term perspective.

What issues are you particularly attuned to? First I look to see if the application is consistent with the spirit of Issaquah Highlands. Then I look at the technical details for compliance (i.e. parking, traffic safety, connectivity). Finally, I look to see how the project will impact the broader community, its neighbors. What are you most proud of and what are you still working to accomplish? Thank you, Geoff Walker, Chairman, Urban Village Development I am most proud of what we Commission, Ashland Park neighborhood resident. have accomplished over all: the consistency of elements throughout IH, including a great pedestrian network all the open spaces and parks. Sometimes we had to fight for these. I still feel we need to work towards balance coming from our remaining developments, that they supply more commercial, entertainment and retail, and less residential. Up until now, residential development has far outweighed commercial. And I would like to see a transportation network that helps Highlands residents get around the community comfortably and safely. The UVDC meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 7:00pm at Council Chambers. (Check the city website calendar) Attendance is encouraged. Audience comments are welcome at all meetings. Meetings can be viewed online live or recorded. (See City channel on Youtube)

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December 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Dear Kari, I recently saw my good friends offering alcohol to their minor child on social media. My friends are way past the age of knowing better, and their child is only 14. I was shocked that this was posted in pictures via another family member and that they allowed it to happen in the first place. Seeing this changes my feelings about them as parents and makes me cautious to the point of even wanting to spend time with them in the future. How would you respond? Would you tell them your feelings about the situation or let it go? - Shocked and Disappointed Friend Dear Shocked and Disappointed Friend, I would not directly begin a conversation about this topic with your friends. If you are having a conversation with them about social media, parenting, underage drinking, etc., then I think you can veer into a conversation about making good choices in life. Calling them up and bringing the issue up on its own will most likely go poorly and potentially erode your friendship, as most people do not respond kindly to parenting advice from others. - Kari

Dear Kari, The holidays are coming up and I am debating whether to invite all my immediate family members (in-laws, parents, siblings). Last year went poorly and ended up being stressful for everyone due to people disrespecting personal boundaries and being unkind. My two siblings fought with each other throughout the evening, some of the kids did not like the food that was served and complained non-stop, and my mother-in-law was grumpy to everyone. I love them all, but I do not know if I can go through it all again this year. I am hopeful, but also realistic. What do you think I should do, should I give it another try? - Burned Out

The Wet and Cold Nights!!

December 2016

ASK KARI

For people in our part of the South of India, even a mild winter seems very cold compared to the heat waves that scorch the people through the rest of the year. Summer temperatures (April-May) routinely reach into the 100s F. As winter temperatures dip down into the 40s F, winter school vacations came into being to avoid the cold classrooms. We had winter vacation for one whole month, from before Christmas to mid-January. It was a blessing for the school kids. But winter vacation was, unlike the summer vacation, very boring. We couldn’t play outside for long hours in the evening as it got dark early and was too cold. All we did was to stay inside and play board games or do ‘holiday homework’. Yes, we got homework from school for the winter holidays!! Television channels were few and programming was only in the evenings, for limited hours; no 24hour channels or programs back then.

Do you have a question for Kari? Please email her at askkarioneill@gmail.com. All questions will be answered in upcoming columns. All personal information will remain confidential and not be published. Kari O’Neill, MSW, LICSW, is a licensed independent clinical social worker and a resident of Issaquah Highlands. 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.

LIFE IN THE U.S.A.

When I set foot onto US land, it was a hot summer in California greeting me. But after

the hot summers, California’s 50 degrees F was very cold. I felt as if I were back in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, where I attended college, also in the South of India. But what really hit me in the face was my family’s move to Pittsburgh, PA. I won’t deny the fact that it was so beautiful to watch the snowfall for the first time in my life, but that was only from inside the house. I detested the cold feeling when I stepped outside, even in three layers of clothing. The numbness of the face was not appealing to me at all. How I wished we had a long winter vacation in PA, like in India, so I didn’t have to drop and pick kids in the snow, from the bus stop! Now, here I am, since eight years in Issaquah! And here, in addition to the cold, we have this terrible drizzle throughout the day, making it all the more cold. The wet grounds and the cold winds drive me crazy sometimes, especially when I am out driving! Every year, I am sure all of us pray that we don’t get any snow in the highlands lest life comes to a standstill. As the roads are steep in the highlands it is difficult to drive on rainy days, leave alone snowy days. Well, on a positive note, I always remember this saying and try to look forward to warmer days and nights… “If Winter is here… can Spring be far behind”. Positive thinking indeed, isn’t it?!!

Dear Burned Out, While family dinners can be stressful on a regular day, the holidays tend to bring out both the best and worst in family dynamics. You cannot control or predict what other people will do. You can only control how you respond to it. That said, I would reflect on what you want most. Do you want to be surrounded by people you know this holiday season? Are you willing to take a risk that your loved ones might not behave better? If not, the other option is to plan a smaller dinner with your own family members from within your household and take in some more quality time with them. Look at what is most important to you; a large group with lots of dynamics or a small group and more intimate dynamics. Either way, I wish you a blessed holiday season. - Kari

by Anita Ayela, The Cottages ( www.lifeintheusa.org ) Back in my childhood days, where we lived in Sunabeda, Odisha, India, the winters were very cold. We waited for the sun to appear so that we could sit out in the sun and feel the warmth. In those days, centralized heating system were alien to India. We had room heaters in all the rooms for the nights to pass by.

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The mild winters of South India seem cold to locals. Issaquah winters are even colder!

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December 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

DOING BUSINESS

Holiday Giving Tree: Donate Toys to Issaquah Food and Clothing Bank

With the help of Santa, Grand Ridge Plaza is partnering with the Issaquah Food and Clothing Bank (IFCB) in a toy and gift drive to support neighbors in need. This holiday season, please consider donating a new toy or gift item by choosing a specific wish from the Holiday Giving Tree at Santa’s Winter Woodland next to Regal Cinemas and Big Fish Grill, or select an item that you know kids love.

Donation drop off: Now through December 15, donations can be dropped off at Santa’s house at Grand Ridge Plaza. Santa and his elves will ensure that all donations are safely delivered by December 25. Donations at Santa’s house must be new, with tags and unwrapped. Donate a toy or gift: Popular gifts include board games (Monopoly, Battleship, etc.), coloring books and art supplies, puzzles, books, and movie DVDs. IFCB suggests that you consider donating tried-and-true items your family loves. Donate food: IFCB is running low on essential non-perishable food items such as canned meats, healthy soups, breakfast cereals, pasta sauce, Boost/Ensure, nuts and canned pasta meals. IFCB reports that it already has plenty of green beans and canned pumpkin… Santa will speed-deliver donated foods. Donate new clothing: Help the IFCB fulfil wishes for clothing items by purchasing new clothing for kids. All donations must be un-washed with tags on. The most requested items this time of year are warm clothing such as hoodies and winter jackets. Year-round donations of new and used clothing: IFCB also accepts donations of lightly used clothing and shoes for men, women, children and babies year-round at its warehouse at 179 1st Avenue SE in Issaquah. There is a 24-hour drop box at the front.

Issaquah Highlands Rakes in Reader’s Choice Awards

Four First Place awards were given Issaquah Highlands businesses in the Issaquah Press 2016 Reader’s Choice Awards, recognized at the November 3rd banquet. Many others received runner up or honorable mention awards. Covering businesses throughout the Issaquah Press Group papers, from North Bend to Bellevue, there was stiff competition. For instance, it’s hard to beat Bellevue Square for Best Shopping Center. Given that, Grand Ridge Plaza winning an Honorable Mention award is quite an honor!

Here are all the awards won by Issaquah Highlands businesses – Congratulations, everyone! Zeeks Pizza First place, Best Place to Eat Runner-up, Best Pizza Swedish Hospital and Medical Center First Place, Best hospital or medical center Ben & Jerry’s First Place, Best Dessert Place First Place, Best Frozen Treat Caffe Ladro Runner up, Best Coffee Big Fish Grill Honorable mention, Best Happy Hour Agave Cocina Runner-up, Best Mexican Food Grand Ridge Plaza Honorable mention, Best Shopping Center

Shannon Jallow, general manager of Grand Ridge Plaza, and Mark Mullet, owner of Ben & Jerry’s (and Zeek’s Pizza), celebrate at the Reader’s Choice Awards.

December 2016

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December 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2016

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FITNESS & HEALTH

#HighlandsFit - Getting Ready for the New Year by Rachel Hammack, DPT, Highlands Physical and Hand Therapy

Well, that was fast. Can you believe 2016 is nearly over? I hope that you all had a wonderful year and accomplished many of the goals that you set for yourself in 2016. Did any of you set any fitness goals for yourself for 2016? Did you achieve them? If not, do not fret. You are not alone. In fact, only 8% of Americans are successful in achieving their resolutions! One major reason that people are not successful in achieving their health and fitness resolutions is that they do not have objective and measurable goals or “resolutions”. Many people make the resolution to “eat healthy,” “get in shape,” “work out more,” etc. Unfortunately, these goals are difficult to achieve because you don’t have anything measurable to be accountable to. When making a health and fitness goal you will have a much higher rate of success if you create a goal that you can be accountable to. For example, instead of saying, “I’m going to work out,” you could say, “I am going to work out 30 minutes four days per week,” or “I am going to go on two hikes per month that are 3+ miles,” or “I am going to run a 5K,” or “I am going to ride a century.” Now is the time to start defining your goals for 2017. Instead of making easy to postpone year-long goals, how about focusing on monthly goals for yourself, and progressing each month. You could make a January goal to start walking 30 minutes two days per week. By February you will be feeling good and ready to walk three days per week. Perhaps by March you’ll be at four days. At this pace, you may be walking or running your first 5K by Summer!

This is just one idea to get you started. I hope you can come up with your own which you can tailor toward your lifestyle. When you decide your goals, post them somewhere you look at frequently, write them in your calendar and set alarms on your phone. Do whatever you need to do to make 2017 successful for you! As a reference, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends for fitness goals: Cardiorespiratory exercise: • 30-60 minutes of moderate intensity exercise 5 days per week, or • 20-60 minutes or vigorous intensity exercise 3 days per week Resistance exercises: • Strength training major muscle groups 2-3 days per week Please remember, “moderate intensity” activities can be fun: Ballroom dancing, golfing without a cart, shooting hoops, mowing the lawn, sweeping, vacuuming, and of course walking. Some examples of “vigorous intensity” include: hiking at a moderate pace, soccer, volleyball, singles tennis, Zumba, cross-country skiing, and of course jogging or running. For anyone who thinks 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week seems too steep of a goal, or anyone who needs a push in the right direction I highly recommend watching the inspiring and entertaining YouTube video “23 and ½ hours: what is the single best thing we can do for our health?” by Dr. Mike Evans. Good Luck with your goals and resolutions Highlands community! See you in 2017!

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December 2016

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT Issaquah School District issaquah.wednet.edu 12/7 & 12/8 12/21 - 1/2

Elementary Conferences, No Elementary School Winter Break, No School

Issaquah School Foundation isfdn.org

Challenger Elementary challengerpta.org

12/1 - 12/3 12/2 12/9

PTA Book Fair Popcorn Friday Parents’ Night Out

Clark Elementary clarkpta.org 12/2 12/14 12/16

Dads at Recess Market Day Gingerbread House Night and Auction

Endeavour Elementary endeavourptsa.org

12/2 12/6 12/6 - 12/8 12/9 12/12 12/14

Popcorn Friday Endeavour Singers Concert PTA Book Fair and Kids’ Corner Movie Day @ 12:45 P.M. Science Fair Kick-off E-Kids Meeting

Grand Ridge Elementary grandridgeptsa.org

DECEMBER EVENTS

12/1 12/2 12/6 - 12/9 12/13 12/14 12/14

Second Grade Concert @ 6:30 P.M. Popcorn Friday Scholastic Book Fair and Online Choir Winter Concert @ 6:30 P.M. - Grand Ridge Plaza Market Day – 4th Grade After-school Movie @ 1:30 P.M.

Pacific Cascade Middle School pacificcascadeptsa.org 12/2 12/ 12/ 12/10 12/12

Grading Day, Early Release @ 10:20 A.M. School Play, As You Like It @ 7:00 P.M. School Play, As You Like It @ 2:00 and 7:00 P.M. PTSA General Membership Meeting @12:30 P.M. Holiday Concert @7:00 P.M.

Issaquah High School

issaquahhighptsa.org 12/1 - 12/18 12/11 12/13 12/14 12/17

Angel Closet Community Drive PTSA Membership Meeting Candelight Concert @ 7:00 P.M. Winter Band and Orchestra Concert @ 7:00 P.M. Evergreen Concert – Home for the Holidays

**Be sure to check individual web sites for details and updates

Issaquah Highlands Connections

by Tracie Jones, Wisteria Park

Lunchtime Walkabout Program

The Pacific Cascade Middle School (PCMS) PTSA is seeking volunteers for the Lunchtime Walkabout Program. This program gets our kids outside at lunchtime for some fresh air and exercise. We need few parents helping during lunchtime. Our job is to provide more eyes, ears, and mostly smiles for the kids. Students love seeing parents involved at school, and this is a great way to watch your kids interact with friends. Sign-up with a friend, grab a coffee, and come hang out at the school together for a short 30 minutes. And Dads, the kids love to see you on Fridays! Come shoot some hoops, or throw a football. Parents can sign up at pacificcascadeptsa.org, and even specify which lunch period you would like to sign up for to ensure you are there during your child’s lunch. Questions? Contact Nicole Garcia, at Nicole@G12com.com.

PCMS Helping Hands

PCMS PTSA works hard to help PCMS families in need throughout the entire school year, not just during the holiday season. PCMS families can help by signing-up to donate clothing, school supplies, groceries, gas cards, or even a haircut, and more. By working with the PCMS PTSA, everyone can help make this a successful school year for EVERY student at PCMS! For more information, or to be placed on the distribution list, contact Marie Hardy, MTaylor47@hotmail.com. Donations should be labeled for “Student Outreach,” and delivered to the PCMS front office. Thank you for providing a helping hand, making a difference in the lives within our own community.

IHS Candlelight Family Concert

CANDLELIGHT is a family concert that appeals to all ages. Issaquah High School Concert Chorale, Treble Clef Women’s Choir, Mix It Up, Hi Tones, & In Harmony will move you with a wide variety of songs, including music of the season, and a new tradition, our Candlelight Processional. Admission is FREE for students with an ASB card, and for children. General tickets will be $8.00 at the door. Save the date for this holiday concert to remember, December 13th, at 7:00 P.M.

Scholastic Book Fair

The Scholastic Book Fair is continuing through early December at most local elementary schools, right in time for the holidays! The community is invited to attend these fun reading events that inspire children to become lifelong readers. What a great way to support our school libraries, encourage literacy, all through finding the perfect book for every family member. More information can be found by checking local PTSA websites!

Join Clark Elementary PTA TODAY! You are the KEY!

The PTA is a vital part of our school. Joining our team helps parents become connected, develops a network, includes your input in program and event decisions, supports our staff and students, and encourages our PTA mission. PTA membership is an important indicator of parent engagement at Clark. We are almost half way to our goal! All PTA programs and events are made possible through volunteers. Clark needs YOU to make it happen!!! Volunteer to lead or assist in any of our worthwhile programs, events and make a positive impact in the education and experience of your child, and all their 700+ Clark school friends! For more information, visit ClarkPTA.org.

IHS Musical Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat The story of Joseph is coming to the musical stage, at Issaquah High School PAC, where students will perform their interpretation of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”, under the direction of Ms. Earlene DeLeon. The entirely sung-through musical follows the biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors, his jealous brothers, and colorful dancing wives. “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” contains lyrics by Tim Rice, music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, and based on the story “A Coat of Many Colors.” The winter musical runs from December 1st- 3rd, 2016. Don’t miss this AMAZING event! For more information, visit: connect.issaquah.wednet.edu/high/ihs/.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Parents Night Out at Challenger Elementary

Challenger parents can drop off their kids (ages 6 to 11), and the energetic staff at Karate West plays tons of fun karate games and relays, for three hours, from 6:00 to 9:00 pm, on December 9th, 2016. Don’t worry about feeding the kids before you drop them off; dinner is included. The cost is $35 per child. There will be three “Parents Night Out’ sessions offered this school year. Each session is limited to 30 kids. Registration information coming soon, at ChallengerPTA.ourschoolpages.com.

Friends of Youth benefit for Counseling Services On Wednesday, December 7, 2016, at 7:00 A.M, Friends of Youth will host a breakfast fundraiser at the Issaquah Hilton Gardens Inn to support counseling services in the Issaquah School District. All donations directly support drug and alcohol counseling in high schools, and student and family counseling in elementary schools within our district. Learn more, and register for this event at friendsofyouth.org.

December 2016

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

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Save the Date! March 18th, 2017 Endeavour Elementary School PTSA Dinner and Auction Please mark your calendar for “To the Moon and Back”, our 2017 Endeavour PTSA Auction fundraiser! Our auctions are held every two years, allowing the community an opportunity to work together using volunteer time and resources to raise critical funds for our PTSA programs and school. Endeavour parents and staff will enjoy an evening of delicious food and drinks, a silent and live auction, and most importantly, family and friends.

Auction donations needed! For more info, please visit our Auction Donation Page at endeavourptsa.org.

Technology Resources for Families in the National School Lunch Program

Comcast/Xfinity now offers $9.95/month internet service for families who participate in the National School Lunch Program, receiving free or reduced lunches. Families should contact Comcast/Xfinity at customer. xfinity.com/help-and-support/internet/ comcast-broadband-opportunity-program/ or call Comcast 1-855-846-8376. ISD also offers free surplus desktop computers (with Windows/Office software) to families who also participate in the National School Lunch Program. Contact school counselors for further information.

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December 2016

LIVING GREEN

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Sustainable Holidays, More than Just Green by Susie Sharp, The Brownstones

What comes to mind when you think of the holidays? Is it possible, or just a flight of fancy, to imagine you think of “sustainability”? This word means many things to many people but common definitions include the ability to be supported and sustained, and the act of supporting and/or promoting a balanced environment. As the Highlands is our home and renowned for setting high sustainability standards, how can we celebrate the holidays in a way that is sustainable for our families and the environment? Instead of stressing about the parties, the expense, the craziness of shopping for numerous individuals and the pressure to make it perfect… How can we press “pause”, think green and fully enjoy our holiday season? I believe in starting with, “What is most important to your family?” And then what traditions, beliefs and celebrations can you share while making this a greener and more peaceful holiday? With some planning and foresight, a new version of the holidays can be created. Consider drawing up a list of the top five things that matter to you. Try sitting down with the family over dinner and have fun putting ideas on paper. Then commit to doing them by putting them on the calendar. Once you have committed to the dates it is a lot easier to decline other potentially more stressful options. As the mother of two teenagers, I think back to earlier holidays with endless gifts, gift wrapping sessions, and simply lots of work to produce what I felt would be a perfect Christmas. I am now humbled to understand that what matters most to my children are less the gifts and more the memories. Recalling entertaining and quirky moments from holidays past still make them laugh. The family member who came to dinner in a handmade Turkey outfit; the Halloween Dalmatian costume that made the annual Christmas photo. If the idea of a greener, stress-free holiday appeals to you but you need inspiration; try one or more of the following: 1. Create a new and green tradition: Try a brisk early morning holiday walk to your favorite park. Record the moment with photos. Take the kids for a nature walk. (My favorite park is Central Park.) Or walk to shop: try a car-free day in the Highlands! 2. Create a new holiday breakfast menu. Family members might take on the task, giving

you a chance to sit down and write festive cards. 3. Bake cookies for neighbors and introduce yourself bearing these gifts. 4. Decorate a tree in your garden with simple ornaments. 5. Wrap your gifts in pretty fabrics or boxes which can be reused. Or use Christmas stockings for wrapping, sentimental items in their own right. Mine, given to me by my Mother, is decorated with antique pins from her jaunts to antique markets many years ago.

Find how simple pleasures in the Highlands this holiday season are not only “green” but also more “sustainable”.

6. Purchase local and sustainable gifts. Recology in Gilman Village is a great resource. 7. For those on your list who have what they need, donate to their favorite charity. 8. Create a holiday playlist by encouraging family members to select their favorite songs. 9. Attend a local holiday concert or choir festival. 10. Power down the gadgets and screens. Play a board game or read Christmas stories. 11. Remove the stress and expense of multiple purchases with a gift system such that every adult in the immediate family receives one quality present. 12. Be grateful and celebrate the time you have together. Give yourself a gift in the process – and here I borrow a quote from May Sarton: ‘A holiday gives one a chance to look backward and forward; to reset oneself by an inner compass.’ Here’s to celebrating a peaceful and sustainable Holiday- Issaquah Highlands style!

Ebike – The Ideal Green Gift

What to give your favorite “greenie” when a Tesla just isn’t in your holiday budget by Sarah Games, Ashland Park

My husband says I’m difficult to shop for. I’m “green”, thrifty, minimalistic and perhaps not as sentimental as I am practical: I like gifts that help me get to where I’m going in life. For the last several years I’ve worked as an animal caregiver in the Highlands, spending much of my day zipping between houses all around the neighborhood. After completing my first year, my inner thrifty, eco-conscious minimalist self began to complain about the waste of driving a 5-seater car as its only passenger. My husband suggested we get an electric bike -something I didn’t know existed- and after a little research and serendipitous endorsement of my favorite personal finance blogger, “Mr. Money Mustache”, I decided to visit Electric and Folding Bikes Northwest in Ballard to give one a go. IH resident Sarah Games with her e-bike, “Love at first zoom!”

The day we went to shop was busy at the store. We arrived early, but there were already several people waiting to get

bikes in for routine services. The small store stocks a variety of E-bikes in different speeds, sizes and features, from small foldable road bikes to large mountain bike frames that look more like electric motorcycles. Just like with regular bikes there isn’t a “one size fits all” with electrics. One model in bright jewel tones caught my eye: the eZee. The store manager explained it is one of their more popular sellers: powerful, easy to use, and attractive. I took a red one outside, strapped on a helmet, turned the ignition key (yep, they have them), pressed a few buttons on the control panel and pedaled away. As soon as I felt stable I engaged the hand-controlled throttle for the first time. My face lit up: love at first zoom! I knew that moment I was going to go home that day with an eZee... in blue! I’ve had my ebike for well over a year and much of the time I still feel giddy when I step off for another ride. I have found it is: • Efficient and effective. I can go up and down NE Park Dr. 3-5 times per charge. • Economical. Our transportation cost are now ~$2000/year (the average is $9000). • Environmentally superior. Requires far fewer parts and carbon-sourced fuel than cars. • Epically enjoyable: Cycling keeps me engaged and present in the moment and my immediate surroundings. A true “joyride”. An ebike is an ideal gift for anyone looking to cut their carbon or interact more intimately with their environment, but would be great for many others:

• Older students needing affordable and reliable transportation down to school and work in the Issaquah valley and beyond.

• Bike-loving seniors who might appreciate a little electric assist every once in a while (or more).

• Cycling enthusiasts looking to broaden their collections. The popularity of ebikes is exploding! There are now more models and stores offering them than when I bought mine. You can get a conversion kit for your regular bike for as little as $500 or spend more than $5000, a hefty price indeed... but still cheaper than a Tesla.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Photo Treasure Hunt Every month we publish a photo of something (or somewhere!) in the Highlands. While some months are easier than others, all photos are of something accessible to the public. It is up to you to guess where the photo was taken.

December 2016

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HIGHLANDS FIBER NETWORK

Winter Internet Fixes

by Frank Pineau, General Manager, Highlands Fiber Network (HFN)

Last month’s photo was of the bike rack outside the sport cage near Central Park. It’s hard to miss seeing the red hockey sticks as you drive up Park!

The cold, gloomy days of winter are a great time to maintain and upgrade your home computer network. Numerous web sites provide equipment comparisons, recommendations and instructions that help determine what you need and how to do it. Wisebread.com, howtogeek.com, pcworld.com, windows.microsoft.com, support. apple.com, betanews.com and macworld.com are just a few you might check out. Keep Running When Issaquah Highlands encounters a disruption in electrical power, Highlands Fiber Network (HFN) is not generally affected as most of the network is on backup power systems. Wireless Internet service is still available if your wireless devices are charged and you have a back-up battery for your portal and wireless router. A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) at your portal and at your wireless router can keep connected. Build a Wall Keeping computers secure is a constant concern. A firewall helps prevent malicious persons or software from gaining access to and controlling your computer from the outside. Microsoft’s web site at http://windows.microsoft. com/en-us/windows7/What-is-afirewall explains firewalls well. You can install firewall software on each computer or install a wired or wireless router with an integrated firewall to your system. Note: protection from viruses and malware requires additional software.

Correct guesses were submitted by: Doreen Kolenc Robin Hodder Heather Krabbe John Manning Ann Taylor Kuldip Singh

Lili Young Jim Fullmer Karen Humphrey Nicole Pond Sarah Venzon Sarah Games

Thanks to everyone who participated! This month’s photo is below. Can you identify the location in this picture? Entry Deadline: Monday, December 12th If you think you have the answer, please email it to IHPhotoHunt@ gmail.com along with your full name. Please be as specific as possible when emailing your response. Responses will be accepted until December 12th. Those with the correct answer will see their name published in next month’s issue of Connections, as well as have their name entered into a drawing for a $25 gift certificate to Caffé Ladro. This is your last chance to enter to win in 2016! The drawing will be this month. Everyone who responds with a correct guess will be entered to win. Every correct guess is an entry – some have entered 12 times the year! The Photo Treasure hunt is coordinated by volunteer Chelsea Musick of the Central Park neighborhood.

Optimize Movie Viewing HFN users can stream Netflix Super HD offerings at uninterrupted and higher speeds than other users due to the configuration and capabilities of the network and HFN’s peer partnership with Netflix. This gives us a high quality experience not available in most of the U.S.! Just sign up for Netflix online or by telephone and start watching movies and TV programs right away. Clean House Even huge hard drives get full and need cleaning and defragmenting. This not only gives you more space, it speeds up your computer. Disk cleanup deletes temporary files, old logs, caches, cookies and other files that aren’t needed. Disk defragmentation organizes the remaining files. Determining what should be kept can be confusing. If you can’t do it yourself, ask a computer service to do it for you. Highlands Fiber Network (HFN) Customer Service can help you get the most out of your Network. They are available 24/7 at 425-4270999, www.highlandsfibernetwork.com or support@hfnservices.com.

Fiber to the home, community owned!

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December 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

CULTURE THROUGH CUISINE

Culture Through Cuisine – Denmark by Kimberly Collette, Central Park

Hygge. A Danish word Elisabeth Swan says can be a noun, a verb or an adverb. It means coziness and being together. “Let’s Hygge” is often suggested. In Denmark winters mean long dark days. The sun doesn’t peek out until after 9 a.m. and tucks itself back in for the night by 3 p.m. Elisabeth remembers as a child in Denmark going to school in the dark and coming home in the dark. To get through the dark winters Danes have embraced Hygge. Elisabeth remembers lighting lots of candles and settling in for the evening with family. They played together under the warm light of candles and talked together. In December, children would hope for a white Christmas. Elisabeth’s family always waited to put up their Christmas tree so it would be fresh. Up until Elisabeth’s teenage years her family would light their tree with real candles. The candles would glow bright against the green tree. Their home would be decorated with red and white to celebrate Christmas. Julemanden, which literally translates to “the Christmas man” has a lot to do that night so he enlists the services of Christmas helpers. Elisabeth decorates her home with little figures of these helpers passed down from her mother.

Risalamande (or “ris a la mande”) Ingredients & Directions Rice Milk Almonds Whipping Cream Knox Gelatin Water or Milk Vanilla Sugar Cherry Sauce or Cherry Pie Filling

2/3 Cup 4 Cups 1/2 Cup, Blanched and Chopped 1 Pint, Whipped Stiff 2 Envelopes 1/2 Cup 2 tsp 10 Tablespoons

Heat milk to a slow boil. (Be careful with boiling the milk. It should just barely bubble on the surface. You do not want a rolling boil at all.) The first Sunday in December they light the first candle on their advent wreath. Elisabeth has one purchased from the store but often its greenery and ornaments arranged in a container and long taper candles on top. They are given to friends as gifts. It’s hung or placed in the middle of the dinner table. Each Sunday one candle is lit until Christmas. Presents are always opened on Christmas Eve and dinner is a roast and caramelized potatoes. After the meal risalamande is served. Risalamande is cold rice pudding with slivered blanched almonds and whipped cream stirred in. It’s served with a sweet cherry sauce. Elisabeth can’t find the same cherry sauce in the states so she will use canned cherry pie filling when she makes it for her family. Often she will thin it out a bit with water and add a little almond extract. A single whole almond is added to the batch, which is almost always doubled by Elisabeth for their Christmas celebrations. The person who gets the whole almond in their dish wins a little surprise. Often it is a chocolate or a small gift. A Danish Christmas is lit by candles and families Hygge together for the evening. Elisabeth and her husband moved recently to the Highlands as they downsized their empty nest. As the Holidays approach and the days get shorter the Swans will Hygge. They will light candles, enjoy each other’s company and hope to find the whole almond on the bottom of their empty risalamande bowl this Christmas.

Add almonds, vanilla, sugar, gelatin, and water or milk. (I mix the gelatin and sugar in a small bowl first so that it does not clump.) Let cool in refrigerator, about one hour. Fold in whipped cream. Cool. Serve with cherry sauce (or canned pie filling)

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2016