July 2020

Connections

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ISSAQUAH HIGHL ANDS

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By Community, for Community July 2020

G N I V O M D R A W FOR R E H T E TOG EPORT

UAL R N N A A C H I E TH

NUSA 2020 Winner for Best Non-Profit Print Newsletter!

W H AT ’ S I N S I D E ?

5-7 Feature: The IHCA Annual Report 9 Highlands Council 11 Volunteer of the Month 12 Wish You Were Here 13 Highlands Youth (HY) 14-15 What's Happening 16-17 IHCA

19 21 22 23 24 25 25 26

Grad Announcements Living Green Smart Home Home Organiation City News Ask Kari Merchant of the Month Health & Fitness

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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July 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

1% LISTING FEE! FULL SERVICE FOR 1%

AN EVOLVING MARKET! SELLING NOW VERSUS SELLING LATER? A NEAR FUTURE SALE WILL LIKELY BE BETTER THAN A LATE YEAR SALE! SOLD FOR $983,000 (33k Above)

SOLD FOR $700,000 (25k Above)

SOLD FOR $645,000 (45k Above)

LISTED FOR $485,000

Sunset Walk 3 bed / 2.5 bath / 1,590 SF seetheproperty.com/340370

Crofton Springs 3 bed / 2 bath / 1,540 SF seetheproperty.com/339413

Huckleberry Circle 2 bed / 1.5 bath / 1,134 SF seetheproperty.com/345949

SOLD FOR $685,000 (35k Above)

LISTED FOR $750,000

SOLD FOR $1,100,000 (Full Price)

The Brownstones 3 bed / 2.75 bath / 1,467 SF seetheproperty.com/339366

Ivy Way 4 bed / 2.5 bath / 1,440 SF seetheproperty.com/347115

Ichijo - Sun Ridge 4 bed / 2.75 bath / 2,890 SF seetheproperty.com/325100

Magnolia Park

4 bed / 2.75 bath / 2,330 SF seetheproperty.com/343250 SOLD FOR $700,000

SOLD FOR $1,065,000

SOLD FOR $1,150,000 (Full Price)

SOLD FOR $2,479,000

SOLD FOR $1,795,000

zHomes 3 bed / 2.5 bath / 1,694 SF seetheproperty.com/343764

28th Avenue 4 bed / 2.5 bath / 2,922 SF seetheproperty.com/335198

Chesapeake Landing 4 bed / 2.5 bath / 3,040 SF seetheproperty.com/331337

Harrison Street 4 bed / 3.5 bath / 4,760SF seetheproperty.com/287460

Summit Park 5 bed / 4.25 bath / 4,655 SF seetheproperty.com/319373

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CALL 206-909-8200 TODAY FOR A FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION & CUSTOMIZED SELLING STRATEGY!

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

July 2020

EDITOR’S NOTE Extra! Extra! Connections has been named the 2020 Non-Profit Print Newsletter of the Year by Neighborhoods, USA (NUSA). Based on March and June 2019 publications, the award was given for branding, design, and content, community outreach and involvement. As a community, volunteer-based publication, you all should be very proud of this accomplishment!

This month’s feature is the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) Annual Report, with detailed descriptions Connections Editor Nina visits Sarah Hoey, and data showing their plans, activities, and IHCA Executive Director, outside the ihca's accomplishments. The IHCA is the property new offices near Blakely Hall. manager for all of Issaquah Highlands, which is no small task! They manage parks, open spaces, and miles of trails, as well as state-of-the-art facilities, such as irrigation. The landscaping we see is both lush in beauty and in sustainability, as are our buildings and infrastructure. It is the IHCA, our homeowner’s association, that manages all of this.

And the IHCA has endured through this lock-down, just like the rest of us. Having to work outside closed offices and deal with required work stoppages was a huge challenge for the IHCA, but they have hardly skipped a beat and we are moving forward together. I hope you will enjoy catching up on all they have done for us.

As always, there is more inside! Topics top-of-mind as we assembled this issue were the pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement. These issues are very important to our community and we will continue to address them, while we bring you other local topics, such as sustainability and volunteerism. There is quite a variety inside. Please enjoy it all!

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About the cover: Photos of IHCA staff holding signs of encouragement for those struggling with the challenges of COVID-19. We are a community and we’ll “Move Forward Together.”

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. The mission of Highlands Council, and therefore, Connections News, is “to foster the development of a vibrant and caring community committed to service, diversity, and well-being.”

Marcel Dore, State Farm Agent 2405 NE Park Drive Issaquah Highlands, WA 98029 425-391-0200 Marcel@MarcelsAgents.com

2520 NE Park Drive, Suite C Issaquah Highlands 98029 (425) 996-0457 RayBesharati.com

And I am your neighbor!

Issaquah Highlands is my home and the location of my business. As we share a community, I understand your insurance needs and would like to help you get the coverage you need.

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July 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

2020 Elections Washington state legislature (3 POSITIONS)

DATE: Thursday, July 16 TIME: 7:00 - 8:30pm LOCATION: This forum will presented online. Please see issaquahhighlands.com/events for details.

Hear directly from candidates running for local office and learn their positions on issues affecting our community. Forums are moderator-led and driven by community-generated questions.

Submit your questions at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

July 2020

THE IHCA ANNUAL REPORT

MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER I hope this annual Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) issue finds you and your families well. Moving through the last couple of months has allowed the IHCA team to look at our work from a different perspective, be more creative, and think outside the box to find ways to continue serving this community. As we move forward together, I’m reminded of the beauty of the human spirit and how the strength of this community shines when we all need a little kindness.

— Sarah Hoey, IHCA Executive Director Sarah Hoey, IHCA Executive Director

The IHCA maintains all common areas within the Issaquah Highlands boundaries, which includes 2,200 acres – 484 acres of developed land and 1,540 acres of dedicated open space. In addition, the IHCA administration has a team of 18 employees dedicated to upholding the established rules and restrictions, architectural standards, and maintenance of 29 parks, including trails and streetscapes.

We welcomed 228 new homeowner families to the community in the last 12 months.

A Letter from the IHCA Board of Directors No one knows what the future holds and 2020 reminded the world of this in a big way. The Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) staff and board realize we are unable to mitigate all risks to our community, but we can and do focus on things within our control. We keep our community healthy and strong through strong fiscal stewardship and a sense of community, enabling IHCA Executive Director Sarah Hoey and her team to continue to deliver essential services during these devastating times.

Here are a few examples of IHCA accomplishments that benefitted our community in the last fiscal year: • Made no increases to annual fees. (There have been no increases in annual fees since 2018.)

• Increased funding for the community’s reserves to 103% (according to the Community Associations Institute, only 1% of all HOA reserves are funded to 100%).

• Moved our administration office to a new location, saving the community $192,000 annually in rental expenses (a 69% reduction).

• Expanded the crosswalk flag program.

When COVID-19 struck, the IHCA staff shifted to work with state and local officials to quickly understand and comply with new ordinances. Our team worked to close parks and playgrounds and install appropriate signage.

We devised a physical distancing plan to ensure core landscaping activities could continue, keeping our

The community is 94% complete in allowable residential units, totaling 3,459 units.

IHCA 2019/20 Board of Directors (left to right): Greg Underwood (District 6), Bosedevarahatti Shivakumar (District 4), Jim Young (District 5), Rossie Cruz (District 3), Dan Vradenburg (District 1), Ben Rush (District At-Large), and Bryan Shiflett (District 2).

community safe and healthy. Thanks to our planning and strong financial position, the entire staff remained on payroll and kept their benefits. Finally, the IHCA funded the creation of the “Strong Together” and “Congrats Grads” campaigns seen throughout the Highlands, celebrating our community spirit and milestone accomplishments.

We recognize everyone’s world today is tossed around by things outside of our control. The IHCA continues to thrive by focusing on what it can control to keep you and your family safe and healthy.

We welcomed Fidel Alfaro to our IHCA Landscape Department team as a groundskeeper.

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July 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Notable Highlights from 2019/20

Alexan Apartments under construction in June 2020. Photo by Robert Milligan.

Construction Update

In February, the IHCA administration office moved to our new location at 2520 NE Park Drive Suite B. The IHCA office move was our wish for many years, and when the opportunity arose to be more centrally located within the community, we were thrilled.

The COVID-19 stay-at-home order halted construction on all fronts in early 2020, including Westridge, the Alexan Apartments, and custom home construction on Harrison Street and Grand Ridge Drive for several weeks. Thankfully, construction resumed as part of Phase 1 of the governor’s reopening plan.

Construction projects currently in progress: • Polygon Northwest was sold to Taylor Morrison Homes earlier this year. Taylor Morrison is now the builder for the Westridge neighborhood. When complete, Westridge will have 413 residential units; currently 151 units are sold with 262 still to be built. There are two additional neighborhood parks and several pocket park areas planned, in addition to the new High Street linear park that will eventually connect to the trail system behind Swedish Hospital.

• The 135-unit Alexan Apartments, on the corner of 10th Avenue and Falls Drive, remains under construction with hopes to complete in 2020.

• In the Harrison Street and Grand Ridge Drive neighborhoods, 83% of the lots are completed, 7% are currently under construction, and 10% (13 homes) will be completed within the next four years.

Grand Ridge Drive

Harrison Street

Totals

40

90

130

Closed-out & occupied

22

86

108

Remaining under Custom ARC jurisdiction

18

4

22

Under construction

8

1

9

In ARC review process

4

1

5

Sold, but process not started

4

2

6

Owned by Port Blakely

1

0

1

Construction Status Update Beginning number of lots

Future development still pending: • Swedish commercial parcel along Blakely Drive.

• Shelter Holdings 2.8 million square feet of commercial space along 9th Avenue and Discovery Drive.

• Bellevue College parcel behind Grand Ridge Elementary on College Drive.

• Parcel D in the Forest Ridge neighborhood (10 single family homes planned).

• Block 20 on 10th Ave. (behind Dick’s).

Did you know...

New IHCA Office, Rent Savings

Status of remaining lots

For more on construction and development in Issaquah Highlands, go to issaquahhighlands.com/development.

The most significant impact of this move is financial. In moving to our new location, we are able to reduce rent costs by $192,000 per year!

Valued Added: Community Benefits Program The IHCA launched the HOA Benefits Program, providing special discounts on products and services to Issaquah Highlands residents, helping to reduce the expenses of maintaining your property. The first discount is through Sherwin-Williams, offering discounts on paint and paint supplies directly to residents within the Issaquah Highlands boundaries. More benefits will be added in the coming months. For more information, visit issaquahhighlands.com/learn/issaquah-highlandscommunity-association-ihca/ihca-hoa-benefits-program.

The Eastside Directors Consortium Over the last few years, I established a network with some of the most talented master planned community HOA directors on the Eastside as part of the Eastside Directors Consortium (ESDC). We meet and discuss industry hot topics that impact our communities, such as contractors, legal matters, and communication policies. What an amazing resource and group of talented directors.

The IHCA works in conjunction with the Custom Architectural Review Committee on new construction orientation meetings, dispute resolution (if needed during the construction process), final inspection close-out, and construction deposit approval.

Accounting Update No increase in assessments for 2020/21!

• Master reserve account is 100% funded and is updated annually to make necessary changes and adjustments for anticipated capital reserve projects.

• We continued to encourage participation in the monthly

by Kristyn McKinnon auto debit payment (ACH) IHCA Accounting Manager program for collecting assessments, in which 86% of our homeowners participate. This keeps our cash flow even throughout the year and delinquencies low at a rate of 1.5%.

• Master assessments remain unchanged at $936 for the upcoming year.

• CIT Bank acquired Mutual of Omaha, but IHCA’s relationship bankers and their services will not change as a result. The payment portal is still available at issaquahhighlands.com.

• IHCA is audited annually by an independent certified professional accounting firm and we achieved a clean audit report for the last fiscal year of 2018/2019. The annual audit will take place again in September for the 2019/20 fiscal year.

• Budget preparation and review.

ESDC directors: Sarah Hoey (IHCA), Sandy Cobb (Redmond Ridge), Shelley Monson (Trilogy), Amy Atchison (Snoqualmie Ridge), Cynthia Wirtz (Providence Point), Fred Nystrom (formally Klahanie Association). Not pictured: Ken Esemann (Talus HOA).

Coming Soon: New Community Mapping As our community continues to grow, we are updating our community maps, soon to be available online at issaquahhighlands.com and on way-finding kiosks located throughout the community.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

July 2020

Community Management

Maintenance Accomplishments Mailbox Upgrades: Thank you for your patience as we continue to work on this project.

There are over 100 mailbox clusters within the community, we are continuing to remove the old housing around the mailboxes and repainting or replacing the existing cluster boxes.

Outdoor Lighting: Over 1,000 trees in Issaquah Highlands are lit during the winter holiday season, extending throughout Grand Ridge Plaza, up Park Drive, and around Village Green Park. The IHCA replaced 168 tree pit electrical outlets and repaired 122 in preparation for the holiday season. Electrical repairs were needed due to a combination of vandalism and tree roots. Common area lighting is always a big focus for the maintenance crew and this year was no exception. We replaced 47 pathway lights throughout the community and

by Matthew Hendrikse IHCA Maintenance Manager continue to upgrade to LED bulbs. We saved about $8,500 in light fixtures alone this year.

Park Updates: Wi-Fi is now available in Village Green Park. The Summit Park slide rehabilitation project is complete. All parks were evaluated by a certified playground inspector.

by Debbie Orosco Community Manager

by Blair Krieg Community Manager

ARC Applications

Power Washing: Power washing has been a very large project, including cleaning play structures and all concrete areas in our parks. Grand Ridge Plaza has also been extensively power washed to include all of the perimeter public sidewalks.

Snow Removal: The IHCA created an internal Natural Disaster Committee (NDC) following the 2019 “Snowmageddon.” We continue to work with Regency Centers and the city of Issaquah during major snow events that effect this community. With the approval of the board of directors, we were able to secure several pieces of equipment for snow and ice removal for the winter months, including a v-plow, salt and sand spreader, new snow shovels, and two new walk-behind salt spreaders. These items allow us to provide more efficient snow removal services for areas within Issaquah Highlands that are the IHCA’s responsibility.

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• 236 applications have been processed year-to-date.

• 215 applications were processed between July 2019 and May 2020.

• The top three categories for ARC requests are AC unit installation, landscape changes, and exterior paint changes.

Compliance Summary (July 2019 - May 2020) • There are 3,459 homeowner units in the community. On average, 1% of homes receive compliance notices each month (down from 2.7% in the previous period).

With approval from the board of directors, the IHCA Maintenance Department (pictured here) has new equipment to make snow removal in our community more efficient this coming winter.

• The IHCA Covenant Committee reviewed two compliance appeals between July 2019 and May 2020.

Type of Compliance Notice

Landscape Accomplishments

by Lyle Dickey IHCA Landscape Manager

Third-Party Contracts: The IHCA is pleased to announce that all third-party maintenance contracts have been renewed for 2020/21. We have also chosen a new contractor to service our condo and supplemental associations. LandCare joined our landscaping team, in addition to Bear Creek Landscaping. Both are now trusted contractors and team members.

Water Retention and Irrigation Improvements: The IHCA worked with the city of Issaquah for the last year on telemetry and retention pond storage capacity upgrades. We have also been working on an integrated irrigation control system which will use feedback from the city’s upgrades to manage retention pond water more efficiently.

These upgrades are not only necessary to monitor levels in the pond for stormwater control, but to provide irrigation water for our common area landscaping. Both projects have been in the works for several years. Now that planning and permitting is complete, we can work on completing the final steps of these projects. The plan is to have them both completed by summer’s end to start the monitoring process.

Landscape Improvements: The landscape department’s work is guided by our master landscape plan. IHCA crews, along with our landscape contractors, install ground cover, shrubs, and trees every year to keep the landscape updated and looking its best. In addition, other crews worked on sod repairs and soil upgrades in parks and streetscapes throughout Issaquah Highlands. We installed bark in all street tree pits, as well as in most of the common area parks. These continuous improvements help keep the landscape looking fresh and protect and preserve our infrastructure.

10,000

Number of 1-gallon ground covers we installed in 2019/20, along with 80 trees and 200 shrubs.

18,000 Number of square feet of sod we installed, along with soil, to fix damaged and settled areas.

600

Number of yards of bark we placed across our parks and 4,500 tree pits throughout the community.

700

Number of trees pruned throughout our community by trusted team member and professional tree contractor, Eastside Tree Works.

Reminder

86%

1st Fine

10%

2nd Fine

2%

3rd Fine

2%

Top Compliance Notice Categories

6%

4% 4%

Landscaping Trash Cans Holiday Decor

10%

46%

Moss Rules

14% 16%

Exterior Paint Fences

How We Support the Community • Project management for three neighborhoods and 12 supplemental communities, including general building and property maintenance, building envelope inspections, and management of third-party landscape vendors.

• Annual budget development for three neighborhoods and 12 supplemental communities within the master.

• Capital reserve study annual updates and related projects, such as painting, building dry rot repairs, and common area improvements.

• Approve payment of monthly invoices for services performed by third party vendors.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING US MOVE FORWARD TOGETHER! The IHCA staff remains dedicated to the success of this community. We would like to say thank you to those of you who have served on IHCA committees and the IHCA Board of Directors, whose guidance helps shape this community and move us forward together.

Sarah Hoey, IHCA Executive Director

• Perform compliance site visits and processing.

• Implement and manage online voting for IHCA Board of Directors elections annually.

• Complete welcome packets for all new homeowners on behalf of the IHCA, Highlands Fiber Network, and Highlands Council.

• Work in conjunction with Highlands Council on monthly Connections content, issaquahhighlands.com updates, and social media posts.

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July 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Highlands Council encourages you to pull out this page and place in your window to show your support of our Black community.

You can also print full color and coloring page versions on our website at issaquahhighlands.com/black-lives-matter-in-issaquah-highlands.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

July 2020

Connections Named Newsletter of the Year!

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HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

Neighborhoods, USA 2020 Award Winner Connections is now a nationally recognized community publication, named the 2020 Non-Profit Print Newsletter of the Year by Neighborhoods, USA (NUSA).

NUSA is a national, non-profit organization committed to

by Christy Garrard building and strengthening Executive Director, neighborhood organizations.

Highlands Council and NUSA believes community Dahlia Park Resident newsletters are an effective communication tool to share news about our city, community, and neighborhoods. In addition to branding, design, and content, this award criteria also measured outreach and community involvement.

As Connections’ publisher, Highlands Council shares this award with all of you: our readers, our volunteer writers and photographers, and the generous support of the local business community.

Connections is written “by community, for community.”

At Highlands Council, we take finding the right role for a volunteer seriously. Writing content and taking photos for

Connections is a wonderful way for a volunteer who has something important to say or share with the community to get involved. Connections averages 15-20 volunteer writers and contributing photographers annually. Writing and photography are also wonderful ways for our community’s teens to build writing skills, be published, and create a portfolio for those important college applications. We love our volunteer writers; the best news is news from a neighbor.

Our small business advertiser-sponsors credit Connections as a key to their success. We might call them “ads” internally but consider print advertisement as community sponsorship.

When local businesses purchase space in our media, they not only generate brand awareness in our community, they also show they believe in the importance of this communitycreated publication. Our sponsorship-advertisement sales fund the printing costs of the newspaper. We work hard to keep advertising costs affordable so as many local businesses can participate as possible. We offer a variety of ad and contract sizes.

Awards are great, but the most flattering compliment comes when a resident from a different community outside of Issaquah Highlands inquires how to subscribe to Connections or pitches a story they want us to cover in their part of town.

We are careful to stay true to our guiding principles and stay

Issaquah Highlands-specific, even though there are so many wonderful stories to tell in our region. When our staff is networking in the greater community, we often hear from neighboring cities they “wish they had a Connections!”

If you are interested in getting involved with or advertising in/sponsoring Connections, please contact Nina Milligan, Highlands Council Communications Manager, at nina.m@ihcouncil.org.

Our Plans to Reopen Blakely Hall Like many of you, the Highlands Council staff looks forward to finding our “new normal” and anxiously awaits the time when we can welcome everyone back to Blakely Hall.

Candidate Forums Return to Issaquah Highlands 2019 Candidate forum at Blakely Hall

by Nina Milligan Communications Manager, Highlands Council and Starpoint Resident

Since 2017, Highlands Council has convened a team of resident volunteers to bring candidate forums to Blakely Hall. These non-partisan, civic discussions help voters get to know the candidates and their positions on the important issues to our community.

The first forum is Thursday, July 16, just as ballots arrive in the mail for the August election primary. We invite all 2020 5th District candidates to join us at this forum, but will focus the Q&A on the three candidates in the primary race for state House Position 1: • Bill Ramos (D), incumbent • Cyrus Krohn (Unity Restorative Party) • Ken Moninski (R)

In 2020, all positions representing Issaquah Highlands in the 5th Legislative District in Olympia are up for re-election. This district spans a vast area that includes Issaquah, Carnation, Fall City, Snoqualmie, North Bend, Maple Valley, Black Diamond, and parts of the East Renton Highlands.

This year is unlike any other as the state’s Safe Start COVID-19 reopening policies impact all events at Blakely Hall. The July 16 forum will be held live, online. Be sure to mark your calendars now and refer to details provided at issaquahhighlands.com/events for viewing options.

The 5th Legislative District is represented by two positions in the state House: Representatives Lisa Callan and Bill Ramos; and one in the Senate: Senator Mark Mullet.

Full disclosure: Rep. Lisa Callan and Sen. Mark Mullet are Issaquah Highlands residents. Callan, Mullet and Rep. Bill Ramos have offices in Blakely Hall.

For more information, contact Nina Milligan, Highlands Council Communications Manager, at nina.m@ihcouncil.org.

Private rentals of Blakely Hall are currently restricted

by Lindsey Pinkston based on the state’s Safe Start Community Program reopening plan. Beginning in Manager, Highlands Council Phase 3, Blakely Hall will be and Wisteria Park Resident available for private rentals of less than 50 people, with additional sanitation requirements provided to renters.

Rental use without restrictions will resume in Phase 4, with the continuation of additional sanitation requirements.

We expect Blakely Hall to remain closed to the public for daily use through Phase 3, with Highlands Council staff working remotely and available by appointment only.

When we are able to welcome the public back to the Hall, safety precautions will be in place to protect our staff and guests, including increased signage, hand sanitizer available throughout the Hall, limited access to the Highlands Council main office, and access to the kitchen restricted to staff and tenants.

Community groups are currently on hiatus or meeting virtually and may resume September 1 if Phase 4 has begun. See issaquahhighlands.com/events for updates.

Updates can be found at issaquahhighlands.com/covid-19.

If you have questions or need assistance, please reach out to a member of our staff. See the staff directory at the end of this issue, or online at issaquahhighlands.com/learn/ highlands-council/highlands-council-staff.

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July 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

OPEN mic

ONLINE ALL AGES & TALENTS WELCOME! Submit your video to be included in the online viewing party IssaquahHighlands.com/Events

FREE, NOW ONLINE! Meet local professionals for inclusive, connection-based networking and a unique way to grow your business.

Featured business presentations

Receive business building tips

Rotating social media exposure for members

Form genuine professional connections

Additional member promotions

FIRST MONDAYS

9:30 A.M.

Registration required at: issaquahhighlands.com/events

NOW MEETING

ONLINE

Find some calm during this otherwise stressful time!

Everyone is welcome.

Fridays 2:00 - 3:00 pm

Join the video chat using the Zoom Meeting link provided at issaquahhighlands.com/events

Issaquah Highlands Connections

July 2020

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JULY VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

Elizabeth Parker Gregg I have been fortunate to call Issaquah Highlands home for nearly 11 years. You will likely see my husband, Matthew, and I chasing our three-year-old daughter, Lauren, around the local parks. When we are not chasing our toddler or trying to catch up on sleep, our family enjoys traveling, playing tourist around the PNW, and spending time with friends and family.

My husband and I constantly talk about how lucky we are to live in a community with so many wonderful areas for our daughter to play, not to mention the community members we see on our walks who make this place truly our home. Having grown up in the greater Seattle area, and after brief stints in California, New York, and London, I am so pleased I decided to settle down in the Highlands.

It is easy to get involved in the Highlands because there is always an event or activity being planned. Or you are “volunteered� by your friends! I had the thrill of dressing up as a Highlands Day mascot for two summers in a row, as well as helping with lots of fun events at Blakely Hall over the years. My favorite thing about dressing up at Highlands Day is interacting with all the children who are so excited to be there.

July's Volunteer of the Month, Elizabeth Parker Gregg with husband, Matt, and daugher, Lauren.

Elizabeth dressed as our iconic Highlands Day bear mascot to celebrate Issaquah Highlands' 20th birthday at 2018's Happy Birthday Highlands Day!

In 2019, Elizabeth got in touch with her inner gamer as Mrs. Pac-Man at our GAME ON! Highlands Day. The costume was made by our 2019 Volunteer of the Year, Aline Bloch, who also made the cardboard cake in the previous photo.

My husband and I constantly

talk about how lucky we are to live in a community with so many wonderful areas for our daughter to play, not to mention the community members we see on our walks who make this place truly our home.

For the past year, I have been a member of the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) Architectural Review Committee (ARC), which assists residents in ensuring their home improvement projects adhere to community guidelines. It has been wonderful to see all the ways my neighbors are taking pride in their homes, as well as getting to know more people in the process.

Inspired to get involved in the Issaquah Highlands community?

The ARC committee is just one example of how neighbors are helping to ensure we all continue to live in a beautiful community. Our current goal is to make sure the guidelines are easier to understand, and in turn, provide a more streamlined and consistent process.

Visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer to discover all of the different ways you can get involved in our Issaquah Highlands community or contact Lindsey Pinkston at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org.

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July 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Dear Neighbor, Wish You Were Here Our community gardens are in full bloom with gorgeous flowers and tasty produce.

Gardeners can often be seen hard at work, tending their patches.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

July 2020

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HIGHLANDS YOUTH - HY

What I Learned About Learning Stay-at-Home Orders Force Online Learning for Local Students Learning at home is difficult.

Because of the pandemic, students have had to learn how to learn again. Despite the challenges, students have gained some valuable insights into how we can better manage our time, energy, and emotions.

I want to share three simple

by Jonah Foss takeaways from my online Issaquah High School senior, learning this spring that we can HY Board Co-President, and all apply to our own lives.

Manchester Court Resident

Takeaway 1: Systems, systems, systems.

Your ability to do meaningful work is only as good as your systems. Let's say you clean your room once a week. If you don't change the part of you that makes that mess in the first place, you'll end up cleaning up the same mess over and over again. To combat this waste of time, think about building effective habits using the "1% rule." If we can get better or more efficient at a certain task by 1% every day, for 365 days, we could be 37 times better at that task by the end of the year (1.01^365=37.7). I created a small, but meaningful system of practicing touch-typing every day, improving my speed and accuracy over time.

Takeaway 2: Actively engage.

Active engagement refers to engaging in a task with

full attention and meaningful intent. In contrast, passive engagement refers to a reduced engagement, frequent distractions, and a lack of intent. The easiest way to implement these ideas is to create a workplace where you can maximize the ability to be actively engaged. For me, this looks like finding a quiet room where I can close the door and sit down in front of my calendar to determine which tasks demand my attention. My smartphone stays in a place where I can’t reach it; by increasing the amount of effort to check my phone, I create a barrier to getting sidetracked from my work. Thus, I am more productive.

Takeaway 3: Enjoy the ride.

Learning online takes a toll. Schools are where students learn from others, including teachers and peers. Deprived of these interactions, many students have lost their enthusiasm for learning. One way of reducing this apathy is to take advantage of the extra time and schedule flexibility afforded by studying at home. Alleviate negativity and burnout by taking the opportunity to do something you enjoy or trying something new. I started learning German, and I am trying to run more often.

I learned many things while studying from home this spring.

What I learned in my classes was just as important as what I learned about learning. For myself, I found systems are integral to productivity, active engagement maximizes learning, and taking time away can help me keep a positive outlook on learning.

Jonah Foss adapted to online learning when the stay-at-home order closed the schools due to the coronavirus.

We are here for you Maintaining your health now is just as important as ever, and we’ll continue to be here for you and your medical needs. If you’d like to make a virtual or in-office appointment, or if you’re unsure of whether you need one, just give your doctor a call. We will help you get the care you need and tell you of any special policies 5 STARS HIGHEST R ATING FOR or procedures QUALITY you should know about if you come in for a visit.

BY CMS (CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES)

Safety is our top priority Your health and safety are our top priorities.

We have safety measures in SWEDISH ISSAQUAH 751 NE Blakely Drive, Issaquah, WA 98029 425-313-4000 swedish.org/issaquah

place and are following local, state and federal protocols to keep our patients and caregivers safe in our hospitals and clinics. Some of the actions we have taken include: • Our physicians and caregivers are equipped with the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and materials required in the treatment of COVID-19, as well as other surgeries and procedures.

• We have expanded COVID-19 testing capacity for our patients and caregivers.

• We have thoughtfully segmented COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients to minimize the risk of exposure in our facilities.

In the meantime, stay informed and connected by visiting www.swedish.org/stayhealthy.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS

Please Check Our Community Calendar for Updates issaquahhighlands.com/events Due to the coronavirus pandemic, most community group gatherings are on temporary hiatus. Some groups will meet virtually, with more information provided on our website calendar or in their Facebook groups.

Kids & Families Family Game Night

Enjoy an all ages night playing board games with friends and neighbors! Feel free to bring a favorite game and snack to share.

Library-2-Go

The King County Library will bring the Library-2-Go Book Mobile to Blakely Hall. Bring your library card and browse the curated collection of books – check out your favorites and return any KCLS library books you’ve finished! Free fun for all ages.

Minecraft Mania

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

Moms, dads, caregivers, and their children are invited for fun, friendship, support and socializing. Contact katiels84@gmail.com. Search Facebook for Issaquah Highlands Toddler Playgroup.

Arts & Cards Figure Drawing Group

Bring what you need to draw and join a group of artists for weekly sessions to draw from a nude model. The Short-Pose Session meets from 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. with poses ranging from 1 minute to 15 minutes in length. The Long Pose Session meets from 12 p.m.-2 p.m. with a single pose repeated in 20-minute sittings. There is no formal instruction. Attend one or both sessions - the cost per session is $10, cash only. See issaquahhighlands.com/ events/ for more information.

Bridge Club

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.

RSVP: Ed Tellman, etellman@pobox.com.

Knit for Life®

A network of volunteer knitters in area hospitals, providing physical and mental support in a nontraditional 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: Submit Your Video Friday, July 24, 7 p.m.

Join us for an all-ages evening of fun and entertainment from local talents. Come to sing a song, play music, read poetry, tell a story, perform stand-up comedy, etc. Or, just join the audience and support your neighbors! For more information, please contact Dino Go at kabalen.geo@gmail.com.

Special Interest

 Photography Group Saturday, July 18, 10:30 a.m.

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

Contact ihpc@outlook.com.

Poker Night

Whether you are a novice or a salty vet looking for some steep competition, you will love our monthly group Texas Hold ’em tournament! Contact Henry at hlh1969@hotmail.com.

 Book Club

July's Book: The Giver of Stars Tuesday, July 21, 7 p.m.

The book club is a great place to meet neighbors, socialize and explore a variety of books.

Email lindsey8@gmail.com or join the Facebook group at facebook.com/ihbookclub.

 IH Business Networking Group Monday, July 6, 9:30 a.m.

Rovin’ Fiddlers

Drop in on our jam sessions. We welcome guitars, flutes, whistles, banjos, mandolins, autoharps, dulcimers, stand up bass, and percussion. All abilities welcome. Contact Martha at mclnev@yahoo.com.

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

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

Fitness Issaquah Highlands Hiking Group

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

 Meditation Group

Kick off your month with a new spin on the standard practice of networking, based on knowing the more we connect and share, the more we all grow! This new monthly group will blend the best parts of other networking meetings while being inclusive, connectionbased, and most of all, valuable for all members. Social with refreshments from 9:30-10 a.m., meeting from 1010:45 a.m. No obligations, just genuine connections! For more details, please visit issaquahhighlands.com/events.

Telecommute Tuesdays

Do you work from home? Do you want a little motivation to work from home once each week?

Telecommute Tuesdays were designed for you! Head on over to Blakely Hall on Tuesdays for free wi-fi, coffee and treats and the beautiful setting of our community hall. Questions? Contact Lindsey.P@ihcouncil.org or 425-507-1107.

 Toastmasters

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

Learn more at ihtm.toastmastersclubs.org.

Fridays, 2 p.m.

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

Questions? Contact ih.meditation@gmail.com.

Mountain Biking Group

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

Tai Chi Fitness Group

The ancient Chinese martial art, tai chi, will be offered every Wednesday at Blakely Hall. Participation is free; a donation of a nonperishable food item for the Food Bank is encouraged. Contact: taichifitness_IH@outlook.com.

Zumba Fitness® Class

Zumba Fitness is the Latin and world rhythm and dancebased 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 non-perishable food item to donate to the food bank! Contact: zumbawithcindy@gmail.com.

 Indicates this group currently meets online.

See issaquahhighlands.com/events for details.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS

Don't Miss This  Telecommute Tuesday Trivia Tuesdays, 12 p.m.

Please join us on Tuesdays at noon for a fun 15-minute trivia break from your workday! Each week’s winner will receive a gift card, courtesy of HFN. Sign up at issaquahhighlands.com/events to receive the Zoom link via email.

 5th Legislative District

Candidate Forum

Thursday, July 16, 7 p.m.

All positions in Olympia representing the 5th Legislative District are up for re-election this year. There will be a primary in August for races with three or more candidates. We will bring the candidates to you online for a live, robust question and answer period. For more information, contact Nina at nina.m@ihcouncil.org.

Bark Park Celebration Friday, July 24, 1-3 p.m.

Issaquah Highlands Bark Park

Please join the IHCA to celebrate the 15-year anniversary of the Issaquah Highlands Bark Park. Ice cream will be provided, along with special treats for your dog, courtesy of the IHCA. Weather dependent.

Save the Date Food Truck Friday

Friday, August 14, 6 -8 p.m.** Blakely Hall

Stop by Blakely Hall for a casual dinner from community favorite, Tacos la Güerra and enjoy live music from New Age Flamenco! Weather permitting, the patio will be open for eating, or you can bring a blanket and enjoy your meal on the Village Green.

Community-Wide Garage Sale Saturday, September 19

Save the date for the Issaquah Highlands fall community garage sale! Sell or shop throughout the community. **Pending COVID-19 related guidelines at that time. Event will be rescheduled, if needed, to a more appropriate time.

Governance Mtgs*  IHCA Architectural Review Committee IHCA Finance Committee

Door Hanger Workshop

Tuesday, July 14, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, July 24, 7 p.m.

Highlands Fiber Network Advisory Group

Get Involved Neighbor to Neighbor Services Directory

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

 Cross-Cultural Committee

Anyone who has a passion for celebrating the diverse cultures that make up Issaquah Highlands is invited to join our cross-cultural committee. We’ll come together to learn from each other and to help shape the direction of Highlands Council going forward. Our next meeting will be held over Zoom on Tuesday, July 14. Contact Lindsey at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org or visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer to learn more.

For more ways to get involved, including the urgent needs of local non-profits in our community, please visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer.

City meetings covering Issaquah Highlands topics will be listed at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

Special Dates Independence Day

Saturday, July 4 Remember, the use or discharge of firecrackers and other fireworks is not allowed in Issaquah Highlands. See page 19 for more info.

Tisha B'Av

Wednesday, July 29 - Thursday, July 30

Eid al-Adha Starts Thursday, July 30

International Day of Friendship Thursday, July 30

Tuesday, July 7, 6 p.m.

 “Stronger Together”

Join friends, neighbors, and special guest Linda Larsen from A Dash of Adorable for a virtual craft workshop.

You will make a beautiful door hanging, full of Issaquah Highlands “Stronger Together” pride! Choose your kit from a range of options, then relax, paint, and assemble your special piece, following along with Linda online.

For more details and to purchase your kit, please visit issaquahhighlands.com/events.

City Meetings

Monday, July 20, 4 p.m.

IHCA Board of Directors Monday, July 27, 5:30 p.m.

Note: Beginning July 2020, the IHCA Board of Directors meetings will be held on the fourth Monday of each month.

Looking for local summer camps?

See the full listing of upcoming summer camps at Blakely Hall!

Visit issaquahhighlands.com/camps *Highlands Council does not endorse any of these organizations.

For the latest details, see issaquahhighlands.com/events For daily updates, follow us on:

*Due to the coronavirus pandemic, all governance meetings will occur virtually until further notice. More details will be posted to issaquahhighlands.com/events when made available.

All events are FREE unless otherwise noted.

Subscribe to our weekly e-letter at issaquahhighlands.com/connect

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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Goats Return to Issaquah Highlands in July!

by Sarah Hoey IHCA Executive Director

It’s that time of year again – the goats are returning to Issaquah Highlands! Every summer, goats are employed in our community as an eco-friendly way to control vegetation growth in steep slope areas.

This year, the goats arrive on July 8, avoiding the disturbance of Fourth of July.

Shepherd Craig Madsen and his more than 120 goats from Healing Hooves Natural Vegetation Management have worked in Issaquah Highlands for the last 14 years. Over the years, the goats have escaped for various reasons, including fireworks, predators, and vandalism. But as some of you may remember, last year was a little different.

Not every HOA director is happy to make local, national, and international news, but I admit I laughed when I saw our goats on “Good Morning America,” CNN, and BBC World News last summer. No one plans for 250 goats to break free from their fences and stroll through the neighborhood.

Craig expressed his heartfelt apologies and his gratitude to the IHCA staff and homeowners who banded together to round up the goats and get them safely secured, thus ending the “Great Goat Escape of 2019.” We are thankful the goats were not harmed and there was no major damage or injuries.

Thank you to everyone for helping to keep a vigilant eye on the herd while they are in the community this summer.

Read more about 2019’s “Great Goat Escape” on our online blog at issaquahhighlands.com/goats-gone-viral.

Gigi, an Australian wolf hound, will also return to Issaquah Highlands this summer to keep an extra close eye on the goats. As a livestock guardian dog, Gigi protects the herd and wards off any potential predators or strangers. Nessie, a border collie and herding dog, may also be on site to assist Craig. Treat the working dogs like any other service dogs.

Ask Craig’s permission before approaching them.

Every year, the community enjoys visiting the goats and watching them work. It’s important to remember that these special visitors depend on us for their safety. For your and the goats' safety, please follow these rules while visiting the goats this summer:

• Do not feed the goats.

• Do not approach the working dogs without permission.

• Leave your own dogs at home.

• Stay back from the electric fencing.

In addition to not feeding the goats, please do not unintentionally feed them by dumping material into the natural areas behind and between houses. Even plants dumped in our open spaces can be harmful to the goats.

Rhododendrons, azaleas, and many other plants are poisonous to goats.

Treat the electric netting that defines the goats work area with respect. It has enough kick to get your attention. The goats have enough sense to avoid it; so, should you, your children, and your pets.

In case of emergency, contact the shepherd Craig directly by phone/text at 509-990-7133.

Photo (top): A family visits the goats in 2019. (Above) Shepherd Craig Madsen returns with the Healing Hooves goat herd on July 8.

See the map below to see which areas will be tended by the goats this summer. Follow the Issaquah Highlands Facebook page for goatrelated updates. Please follow the safety rules when visiting the goats to keep you and goats safe this summer.

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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Ask the IHCA

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Tree Swings / Barbecue Grills / Approved Fence Styles ď?™ Are kids allowed to hang swings on trees in shared spaces?

Per Exhibit D of the IHCA Use Rules and Restrictions, no resident may add, alter, or remove any trees in the common areas, wetlands, parks, sensitive areas or on private land.

Find more information at issaquahhighlands.com/learn/ issaquah-highlands-community-association-ihca/ihcagoverning-documents.

I have a Green Mountain barbecue grill/smoker and was wondering if there are any restrictions on these in our community?

ď‚Ť We want to replace our front shrubs that are difficult to keep alive with a nice, appropriate, and tasteful fence. With the style of our home, we would love to do a low, white picket fence or something similar to our neighbors. The shutters on our home are white, so it would be so nice to match those and to match our side fence as well.

Any change to the exterior of your lot must be pre-approved by the Architectural Review Committee (ARC). Preapproved fence styles and colors are listed on the last four pages of the fence ARC application at issaquahhighlands. com/learn/issaquah-highlands-community-association-ihca/ ihca-architectural-guidelines-and-forms.

IHCA BOD Meeting Date Change Notice Beginning July 2020, IHCA Board of Directors meetings will change to the fourth Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. See issaquahhighlands.com/events for details.

ARC TIP OF THE MONTH

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

Per the Use Restriction and Rules, decks, patios, and porches are not to be used as storage areas.

Permissible items to be displayed or used on balconies, patios, and porches include outdoor furniture, unobtrusive patio lighting (not including holiday string lights), planters (artificial flowers/plants are prohibited), and barbecue grills.

Find more information at issaquahhighlands.com/learn/ issaquah-highlands-community-association-ihca/ihcagoverning-documents.

RULES REMINDER

Fireworks are Not Allowed Use or discharge of firecrackers and other fireworks is not allowed. Thank you for doing your part.

The city of Issaquah also prohibits the use of fireworks anywhere in city limits without a permit. This includes sparklers, cones, fountains, and roman candles Get more information at issaquahwa.gov/faq.aspx?qid=342.

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

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Bulk Candy • Packaged Candy • Drop-In Craft Time • Shaved Ice • Italian Soda's • Custom Candy Gifts (Gumball Necklaces, Candy Lei's, Candy Corsages) • Specialty Chocolates • Candy Art

All of us at Candy Mâché have missed seeing our customers everyday and are so excited to see you again when it is safe to do so!

At this time we are unclear of an exact opening date but for the latest info. on our hours and re-opening go to www.candymache.com or our Facebook & Instagram pages Thank you for supporting local business!

1836 25th Ave. NE, Issaquah, WA 98029 (425) 394-4480 www.candymache.com

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July 2020

Let's Keep the Celebration Going!

Cheers to even more Issaquah Highlands class of 2020 grads! We can't wait to see what you do next!

See more smiling grad faces in our June issue, online at issuu.com/ihconnections.

HIGH SCHOOL GRADS MOLLY BURLES

NOLAN CRIST

Issaquah HS | Central Park resident

Issaquah HS | Sorrento resident

Molly will attend Oregon State University where she plans to major in marine biology and minor in French language. We are so proud of everything she has accomplished so far and look forward to watching her thrive in college. Congratulations, Molly!

Nolan plans to study sports management at the University of Florida. We are excited for him to embark on this next adventure of his life and wish him much love, success, and happiness!

Congratulations, Nolan!

ALAINA DEAN

LANEY ORFANOS

Issaquah HS | Kirk Park resident

Issaquah HS | Harrison Street resident

Alaina will attend Westmont College in Santa Barbara, Calif. She’s excited to study physics and look for acting opportunities.

Laney will attend Southern Methodist University in the fall, admitted to the Honors Program at the Cox School of Business. We are so excited to see what the future holds‌PONY UP!

8TH GRADE GRADS

Arya Mahajan Pacific Cascade Middle School

Anish Rudramurthy Pacific Cascade Middle School

5TH GRADE GRADS

Sophia Janotti Grand Ridge Elementary

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AT-HOME VBS:

CAMP COMPASSION MONDAY, JULY 27 - FRIDAY, JULY 31 Music, Bible stories, drama, arts & crafts, and interactive Zoom meetings will provide an opportunity to cultivate compassion and have some fun this summer.

GET REGISTERED TODAY!

For more information and to register, visit:

www.oppc.org

We Local Shop&Dine downtownissaquah.com/whatsopen

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LIVING GREEN®

Green Tips to Have a Great Summer!

Be Eco-Responsible This Summer With Family-Friendly Hacks I am a globe-trotter, a travel lover, and an exploration addict.

Since childhood, I have always traveled. My parents took me to a lot of places and countries, including Morocco, Tunisia, Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey, South Africa, and more.

by Aline Bloch Eco-Artist and Central Park Resident

My husband, too, is a nomad; he traveled and lived in South America, Indonesia, and Europe. So, when he asked me to move out of the country 12 years ago, I was thrilled. I love discovering new cultures and new people, and I love exploring new cities and tasting new foods. Traveling is a top priority, and it’s even more important that we do it with our kids. But living green and traveling can be tricky.

Traveling “green” is absolutely possible; it demands a bit of consideration and organization.

Let me help you with this. This summer, I have some tips to help you stay eco-responsible while having fun and enjoying your time off. My ultimate tip is be conscious that your small actions during your vacation can make a big difference!

Create a green travel kit Put everything in a cooler and you’re ready to go! You can use this kit for road trips, camping, or picnics.

Reusable water bottle Reusable cups and plates Tea towels Reusable containers/jars Paper bags for trash

Aline's daughters and dog enjoy a summer family picnic by the lake.

Reusable bags Sharp knife

Cutlery set (metal or bamboo, no plastic)

Beeswax food wraps

Blanket

Homemade sanitizer

Ball (for play)

Picnic Hacks

Camping Hacks

Staycation Hacks

Flight/Hotel Hacks

Living Green Rule: Ditch the plastic at the picnic.

Living Green Rule: Leave no trace.

Living Green Rule: Schedule three off-site activities per week.

Living Green Rule: Keep up your “at home” green habits.

• Control your energy consumption.

Save water as much as possible, open your windows and drapes for natural light, and air-dry your laundry when possible.

• Bring reusable bags for potential grocery store trips.

• Keep it simple and homemade • Buy fresh and local foods • Wrap tarts and quiches in a towel using the furoshiki wrapping technique with square cloth • Prepare your salads in individual jars – each person has one and you do not need extra plate!

• Mosquitoes and bugs love camping, too. Did you know that sage smoke, cedar, and citronella leaves are great natural repellents? If it’s too late: apply honey or banana peel to stop the itch.

• Do you want spiders and ants in your sleeping bag? Peppermint oil is a great repellent for spiders and ants. Drop some around the tent.

• Who likes pancakes for breakfast? You can reuse a ketchup bottle or water bottle to mix your ingredients and shake it!

• The best part of a camp out is scary stories. Add some spooky ambiance with a lantern. Create a nice, bright lantern by reusing a gallon milk jug with a headlamp attached, facing into the jug.

• Pack a bar of castile soap. It washes your dishes, your hands, your body, and your hair.

• Bring your travel kit (see above).

Aline packed her ocean-side lunch in a jar.

• Respect the environment and be sure to recycle properly.

• Grill up food – BBQ is the best!

• Hit the road for a day. Find a corner of the state you have not visited yet. Take on a challenge to visit the most places in a month, let the kids color a map, and bring back a meaningful souvenir from all the places you explored.

• Unplug for a day…or two!

• Read “green” books. Borrow or exchange them with your neighbors or at the little free libraries available around the community.

• Plan “green” summer activities for kids. Some ideas are plant a flower, build an ant farm, build a bird feeder using recycled materials, bike or walk while geocaching, try papermaking, have a backyard campout.

• Reuse towels at the hotel – like at home, right?

• Bring your own toiletries. Do not use the mini bottles, the containers end up in a landfill.

• Did you know we each use an average of four plastic cups per flight? Bring your own reusable cup.

• Pack a snack – it’s easier, healthier, cheaper, and greener.

• No straw, no straw, no straw!

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SMART HOME

HFN is the Perfect Platform Cutting the Cord is More Exciting in Issaquah Highlands

by Jeremy Fallt HFN General Manager

Highlands Fiber Network (HFN) subscribers can get their local TV programming, such as local news and sports, without a cable TV connection – all by using their HFN fiber internet connection. Receiving local TV programming through your HFN internet connection is easier than you think.

Nowadays, there are a lot of options by utilizing apps built into your television, or by using a standalone device that connects your television to online content, like a Google Chromecast, Roku, or Amazon Fire TV. So you don’t lose your local TV channels, some of the current streaming services to use are: • YouTube TV: $50/month • Sling TV: $30/month • Hulu: $54.99/month • AT&T TV NOW: $55/month (lower for AT&T phone subscribers) See highlandsfibernetwork.com/guide/cord-cutting for more details on these services.

Joining the list of streaming options are Disney+ and Apple TV+, both offering a variety of different entertainment options. Disney+ and Apple TV+ upgraded their platforms so everyone in your household will want to stream. Both services can be watched through your TV and smart devices, like your smart phone, tablet, or computers.

Apple TV+ Apple TV+ came out in fall 2019, and vows to be “unlike anything that’s come before,” according to Apple CEO, Tim Cook. The cost for Apple TV+ is $4.99 a month, or a free one-year subscription when you buy an iPhone, iPad, Mac computer, or Apple TV. Apple TV+ will show exclusive Apple Originals, movies, and documentaries, as well as occasionally offering free viewing periods of channels like HBO and Showtime.

Benefits of Apple TV+: • Ad-free subscription service • Allows for six user profiles, shared between users • Available in 100+ countries

Receiving local TV

programming through your HFN internet connection is easier than you think.

There are many affordable TV streaming service options out there – which will you choose to use through your HFN internet connection?

Disney+ Disney+ also came out in fall 2019 and anticipates being the future of Disney online entertainment. With a price point of $7 a month, a pre-pay option of $70 for the year, or the option of a triple-service bundle for $13 a month, this may be enough to give other streaming services like Netflix some competition.

Disney+ has an extremely diverse library of content, offering Disney and Fox legacy content, original documentaries, reality shows, competition series, behind-the-scenes features, nature and adventure titles, animated programming, and more. Disney+ is available in five countries and will eventually be available in all major markets in the next two years.

Benefits of Disney+: • Includes options for other Disney streaming services, like Hulu and ESPN+ • Allows for seven user profiles, with over 200 character icons to choose from • Disney+ accounts allow for simultaneous streaming for all seven profiles Please Note: None of these streaming products are affiliated with HFN. We have no relationship with these providers, commercial or otherwise. Subscriptions are separate and are additional to your HFN monthly billing.

Prices given are accurate at the time of publishing. See each service’s website for most up-to-date pricing. Also, any support for these products and services are outside of HFN customer care. (We’ll make sure your HFN Internet connection is good, though).

Highlands Fiber Network: Fiber to the Home, Community Owned Issaquah Highlands was designed as an innovative, highly connected, urban village enjoying traditional neighborhood design.

Fiber to the home,

community owned!

The “Covenant for Community” was created to fund it, attached to land titles. The Covenant states that each home purchase must include a connection to the network ($250 one-time fee, required at closing). And each home is required to subscribe to the minimum connection (10/10mbps), which is currently $50/month.

Most apartment rentals in Issaquah Highlands provide the option to join the network, with the same hook up fee ($250) and the same monthly rates.

HFN’s High Speed Fiber Optic Network is fast, reliable, and competitively priced. Our current offerings include 10/10mbps ($50/month), 100/100mbps ($60/month), and 1000/1000mbps speeds ($70/month).

For rates and information Highlands Fiber Network Customer Service: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week highlandsfibernetwork.com (425) 427-0999 support@hfnservices.com or see highlandsfibernetwork.com/ support Direct questions about the Covenant for Community to: Jeremy Fallt, General Manager, HFN jfallt@hfn.org 425-394-4184 While the HFN office in Blakely Hall is temporarily closed, please reach out to Jeremy using phone or email.

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HOME ORGANIZATION

Your Organized Life Declutter Children’s Spaces for Creativity

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

The next stop on our 2020 Home Organization calendar is children’s rooms. Over the last few months, you and your family have probably spent a considerable amount of time in these spaces. Now is a great time to take inventory and reevaluate what is working, and what could use a little help.

While on summer break, focus on creating organized workspaces and designated areas in your home for play, connection, and downtime.

Some homes have dedicated playrooms, while others have a corner, table, or a closet that houses all things “play.” As long as these areas are used to their full potential, they can be wonderful spaces that encourage creativity and ensure children have the ability to use their imagination. This is the way they learn to regulate emotions, and even helps develop language and math skills. Play is very important for healthy brain development, and is one way children deal with stress.

How can you set up a play space to cover all these bases? I tend to lean toward a more Montessori approach to setting up these spaces, as it encourages independence and creativity.

Montessori-based play spaces are also less cluttered and have themes of simplicity, nature, and coziness. These days, kids have a lot of screens and electronics in their lives. Choosing to give your play area a calmer and simpler vibe not only allows creativity, but also provides a place where kids can wind down from the world around them. This translates into more imaginative play, where kids can work through their emotions and learn from the toys they choose to interact with on a deeper level.

Of course, this doesn’t mean throw everything out and buy all wooden toys with no batteries! A good way to start is establish a toy rotation system. Start by downsizing. Give away toys and books no longer in use and throw out anything broken or beyond repair. Then downsize again, but this time, put at least half your toys in plastic bins and store them in your garage, a closet, or even under your bed. In a few months (less time for younger children), swap them out. This leads to a less chaotic space overall.

Playrooms and children's bedrooms are one of Johnna’s favorite places to upgrade. It makes her feel like she never wants to grow up!

Photo by Johnna Masterson.

Don’t forget to make a place for art, even if it is just a carousel with art supplies and a large pad of paper placed on a table. Children need their creative outlet. As they start creating their masterpieces, you can use them as playroom decor by hanging them on a string with clips.

The area you use for a homework station will have similarities to your play space. You want to make sure it stays clutter-free and calm, and all regularly used supplies are available and easy to access. Put everything else away.

Help your child stay on task by making the area inviting and comfortable, while also minimizing distractions. You set them up for success by creating a space that has all these components. One recommendation I have for all the families I work with is to purchase a dry erase calendar where kids can see all upcoming and past assignments. Even though we have calendars on our phones and online, it is very helpful for kids to see it written out, check off completed assignments, and actually see their progress.

I hope these tips are helpful. Next month we will talk about how to create an organized and welcoming entry way, as well as ideas on how to make the most out of your entry closet.

How to Organize Children's Spaces Go for a calmer, simpler vibe Downsize toys and books Throw away broken toys Try toy rotation Store unused toys in storage bins

Make a place for art Create a homework station Minimize distractions Use a dry erase calendar for assignments

24

July 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

CITY NEWS

My Black Lives Matter "Aha" Moment Even simple "aha" moments can be profound. It’s a wonder my most recent "aha" moment never occurred to me before.

by Stacy Goodman Issaquah City Council, Kirk Park Resident

While talking with a Black Issaquah resident at the peaceful Black Lives Matter (BLM) protest on the steps of City Hall, we lamented the obvious lack of diversity on the city’s volunteer commissions and City Council. The

city has struggled for years to find ways to attract more people of color and diverse backgrounds to those positions.

I asked him: “How do we appeal to people like you to apply?” With a completely surprised look on his face, he said: “Tell people that’s what you’re looking for! How else would I know?”

Aha! Of course. How would I know if the city was looking for someone like me unless I In June, BLM protests took place in Issaquah, including ouside of City Hall. was told? I wouldn’t. Through more specific All photos provided by Stacy Goodman, city council member . and direct messaging and marketing, the city can engage more diverse participation on much funding could be diverted to non-police functions boards, commissions, and elected bodies. It is a real should be an objective evaluation of historic data and current opportunity to seek out new voices to contribute trends, not a random percentage cut. More significantly, to the dialogue in Issaquah. The BLM movement your voice needs to be part of that decision-making. You can provides endless possibilities for addressing systemic email us at citycouncil@issaquahwa.gov. And please watch inequalities of all sorts. The call to action is to the video recording of City Council’s June 15 and June 29 harness this energy and enthusiasm. The time to meetings on this topic on YouTube seize this opportunity is now. (youtube.com/user/CityofIssaquah).

The City Council is listening with intention to act.

Budget deliberations this fall will include a review of the police department budget in response to calls for reforms since the horrific death of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis. Rather than defund police, the council’s most recent dialogue focused on reimagining the delivery of public-safety services, focused on the needs of Issaquah.

The city’s police budget for 2020 is $11.7 million (including jail, court, and other services), which represents 23% of the general fund. Police have become the ever-larger safety net we rely on for calls that are not emergency or criminal in nature — barking dogs, loud parties, and mental health crises. Perhaps some functions could be accomplished by other professionals, such as social workers. But determining whether and how

To create a truly welcoming and inclusive community we should think bigger. Higher-level. Bolder. One resident wants Issaquah to better reflect the “color-full” people who live here. Her ideas include adding murals around town depicting Black, Chinese, Japanese, Hispanic, and Native American history; installing mirror mosaics from India and Chinese dragons in public parks, and having Pride events. In short, let’s celebrate diversity, not simply talk about it.

We have a moment in time. Seize it. Find your "aha" moments, then share them with family, friends, and the people you expect to change the system. Collectively, our "aha" moments can transform our community and future.

Note: The views and opinions expressed here are solely the author's and do not express the views or opinions of the Issaquah City Council.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

July 2020

25

ASK KARI

Ask Kari!

Dear Kari, I am COVID-19-ed out! I am so tired of remaining at home by myself. I tried the sing-alongs, the dance-a-thons, the happy hours, and the book clubs, but I need people! At this point, I have lost my will to shower and change my clothes, since I never go anywhere. I even feel like depression is setting in. What do you recommend?

– Escape From My Home

Kari O’Neill, MSW, LICSW Dear Escape From My Home, Clinical Social Worker and All your feelings are normal. The worldwide pandemic has Issaquah Highlands Resident thrown all of us for a loop, and we have lost our footing. We have spent our lives leaving our homes and interacting with others, and it is odd to now do otherwise. I’d like you to go back to a regular schedule, to the best of your ability.

Wake up at your normal time, eat breakfast, and follow that with showering and grooming yourself for the day. Add in work, lunch, some movement, followed by dinner and going to bed at your normal bedtime. If it’s the weekend, add in some time for a hobby – something that is of interest only to you – to redirect your mind and offer you some joy. Keeping a regular schedule when we do not necessarily have a regular schedule helps us have predictability, which helps us feel stable and safe.

If at first you see no improvement, keep trying for at least two weeks. If you are still struggling, I recommend you reach out to your primary care physician for further recommendations.

– Kari

Dear Kari, I live with two roommates who do not seem to understand that, while I do work from home, I still need to work. They will pass by my office and ask me questions about my day, what’s up for dinner, and even tell me they moved my laundry. I have asked them to be mindful of the fact that I have work obligations and prefer not to be interrupted during the workday. Help! What do you suggest I do to get my message received, once and for all?

– Frustrated and Bothered Dear Frustrated and Bothered, I hear your frustration and pain. I bet many people in our world today can relate, especially during a world pandemic. I have two suggestions. First, pick a good time to talk to your roommates when you are not working and remind them you need zero interruptions during your workday to be successful in your work endeavors. Second, put a small permanent note up on your door to remind your housemates you are working and ask them to honor your need for quiet and concentration; make sure to add the words “thank you” at the end of the note. Good luck!

– Kari I love to hear from our readers. Email your Ask Kari questions to kari@ihcg.co.

All questions will be answered in upcoming columns.

About Kari: Kari O’Neill, MSW, LICSW, is a licensed independent clinical social worker and is 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.

Blue Eagle Security Solutions LLC Victoria Balzarini Principal Owner & Investigator

Highlands Council wants to showcase your business! Each month, we will choose one Issaquah Highlands-based business to profile in our print and digital media, for free!

Selected Merchants of the Month will receive: • Printed profile in one monthly issue of Connections • Feature on Merchant of the Month web page with link to your business site • Feature in one weekly official Issaquah Highlands e-letter • One shoutout on official Issaquah Highlands Facebook and Twitter

About the business: Services include open source investigations, background investigations, business hiring and due diligence, skip trace/people locations, record research needs, personal injury and insurance investigations, process service, and witness and discreet interviews.

What do you find most rewarding about this business?

Victoria: The most rewarding aspect of the business is helping people solve problems. It is satisfying to find the answers.

In which neighborhood do you live in Issaquah Highlands?

Dahlia Park Contact: (206) 898-8146 BlueEagleSolutions@gmail.com blueeaglesecuritysolutions.com

Questions? Contact Nina Milligan, Highlands Council Communications Manager at nina.m@ihcouncil.org.

Submit your business for consideration at issaquahhighlands.com/merchant-of-the-month

26 July 2020 HEALTH & FITNESS

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Have a Medical Issue? Go to the Doctor Don't Let Fear of COVID Prevent You from Addressing Serious Issues Every morning, I step out of my car, grab my disinfected goggles from a paper bag and put on a mask as I make my way to my office at Overlake Hospital in Bellevue.

I walk into the clinic and am instantaneously surrounded

by Alvera Mandavia by the smell of sanitary wipes, 28th Ave. NE Resident now part of our hourly cleaning routines. I am not greeted by the familiar smiles and eyes of my team, but glistening eye gear and enthusiastic “good mornings'' muffled behind blue masks. It is the same thing I have done for months on end, but nothing about our environment is really familiar.

Where once our waiting rooms buzzed with patients, we now see empty chairs and signage of new protocols and procedures. COVID has embedded fear into the hearts of our community and apprehension over routine doctor's visits is scarring the industry with a drastic decrease in follow up on health maintenance of patients. “Patients feel afraid of coming into the practice,” is what I hear over and over again.

Organizations have mastered the art of PPE, both mental and physical, and our community is well aware of the importance of wearing the right mask, social distancing, and frequent handwashing. All great techniques for preventing the spread of COVID, but this unique crisis is also feeding a darker reality: the unmanaged patient with chronic conditions.

The commerce department showed an 18% decline in healthcare spending, which is staggering. We all know preventative medicine is key to addressing fatal outcomes; this is what primary care doctors aim to do: help prevent and manage acute/chronic conditions. But is fear of COVID preventing patients from addressing serious issues?

Absolutely yes. Our empty waiting rooms are proof of this.

Patients, some even in my own family, refuse to go to doctors out of fear of getting COVID-19. Unmanaged conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension, are being put on the backburner, potentially resulting in fatal outcomes.

As a member of the healthcare community, I don’t think I can emphasize enough the importance of seeking medical

help, not only when needed but also catered around prevention and follow ups. Patients' fear of getting COVID often stems from misinformation about management of the healthcare environment and protocols aimed at prevention and spread.

For example, organizations such as my own now offer both virtual and onsite visits. We have hourly cleaning protocols, socially-distanced waiting rooms, technology to schedule appointments at your own convenience, incredible gear for patient and staff protection, and the most drastic, redirecting patients who present with respiratory issues to a completely different location.

Yes, the world we live in has changed, but healthcare needs have not. I continue to worry about those patients who are not coming in to see our doctors and nurses. Our physician teams worry about outcomes and worsening of conditions when left untreated and unaddressed.

Yes, organizations like mine treat the sickest of the patients, but we pride ourselves in knowing that protocols and adherence to strict guidelines allow for us to say you are “safe in our care.”

Alvera Mandavia suits up every morning to go to work Overlake Hospital in Bellevue.

Yes, the world we live in has changed, but healthcare

needs have not.

Thank You to All Our Healthcare Workers Love, the Issaquah Highlands Community

Issaquah Highlands Connections

July 2020

RENTAL FACILITIES

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

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

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

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

Property Management Enforcement of CCRs, Rules, Regs

Architectural Review

Common Area Landscape

Board of Directors ihcaboard @ihcommunity.org Jim Young, President Rossie Cruz, Vice President Dan Vradenburg, Treasurer Greg Underwood, Secretary Bryan Shiflett, Director Shiva Bosedevarahatti, Director Ben Rush, Director

Funded by:

Annual IHCA Assessments Neighborhood Assessments

Blakely Hall is Issaquah Highlands’ award-winning community center that feels like a luxury lodge. With a variety of meeting, art & dining spaces, an outdoor patio, and adjacent park, it accommodates groups from 20 -200. See BlakelyHall.com for more information or contact us with your questions.

Fire Station #73 Meeting Room Homestreet Bank

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

YWCA Family Village

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

MAIN PHONE: 425-507-1107 | IssaquahHighlands.com Blakely Hall Social Programs

Community Garden Connections Newspaper issaquahhighlands.com BlakelyHall.com

E-Letter Official Social Media

Blakely Hall

2550 NE Park Drive 425-507-1107 | kim.k@ihcouncil.org | BlakelyHall.com

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

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

Responsible for:

27

Governing Body

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

Funded by:

Sponsorships/Grants & Advertising Community Enhancement Fees (1/4 of 1% on sale of home) Retail/Commercial pays by the square foot, Rental Apartments by the door Christy Garrard, Executive Director | christy.g@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1110 Nina Milligan, Communications Manager | nina.m@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1111

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

CONNECTIONS WINNER 2020 Neighborhoods, USA Non-Profit Print Newsletter of the Year!

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

Join the Connections Team Highlands Council is always looking for volunteer contributors. Contact Nina Milligan, Communications Manager, at nina.m@ihcouncil.org.

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

Interested in Advertising in Connections?

For more information, contact Nina Milligan, Communications Manager, at nina.m@ihcouncil.org.

More information, ad packets/pricing, editorial calendar and electronic archives can be found here: issaquahhighlands.com/connect/connections-news.

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

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

Michele McFarland, Controller | michele.m@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1108 Lindsey Pinkston, Community Program Manager | lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1109 Kim Ngo, Blakely Hall Specialist| kim.k@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1107 Vicki Grunewald, Communictions Specialist| vicki.g@ihcouncil.org Katie Cannon, Graphic Designer and Social Media Coordinator | katie.c@ihcouncil.org

HIGHLANDS FIBER NETWORK Governing Body

Board of Directors Tim Underwood Larry Norton Charlie Herb Allen Enebo Howard Kapustein David Ngai

  

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

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

* Excluding holidays and private event closures.

Customer Service: 425-427-0999 | HighlandsFiberNetwork.com Jeremy Fallt, General Manager | jfallt@HFN.org, 425-394-4184

GET INVOLVED

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

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

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

28

July 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

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