June 2016

CONNECTIONS FR

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

June 2016

Celebrating our Parks!

Photo by Tony Cowan, 24th Ave Neighborhood

And future parks! Beginning page 5

Class of 2016 Beginning page 18

W H AT ’ S I N S I D E ?

5 6 9 10 11 12 13 16 18

Feature: Our Parks Central Park Update Restoring Ashland Park IHCA Real Estate in IH Highlands Council 20 Years IH What’s Happening GRADUATION ANNOUNCEMENTS

20 20 21 22 24 24 25 26 27 27

Zhanson Retires Dean Arts and Culture Highlands Youth - HY School Spotlight Volunteer of the Month Emergency Preparedness Ask Kari Living Green Highlands Fiber Network Photo Treasure Hunt

28 Interior Design 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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June 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

FROM THE EDITOR

This issue of Connections is near and dear to all of us who moved to Issaquah Highlands for the preservation, and access to, the beautiful open and park spaces around us.

Whether you prefer an active park with play equipment and lighted fields, or the peace of a thousand-acre forest, Issaquah Highlands has something for you.

For this issue, I want to point you in two directions: to these pages for the stories and indepth reporting about current I and David Kappler, traipsing through the forest west of the soccer park topics; and to our website, IssaquahHighlands. fields, imagining a new interpretive trail there. com, for maps and comprehensive listings of all the parks you can enjoy in our community.

Our lead story features, and in that way says “thank you” to a volunteer from downtown Issaquah who has been a positive force in our development from the very beginning, especially in the development of our parks and trails. On page 5, Meet David Kappler.

Then continue on to learn the latest on the planned Central Park improvements, preparing yourself for the community open house at Blakely Hall on June 22nd. Also be inspired by the volunteer efforts of our residents; perhaps join a future work party. I encourage you to enjoy our parks and trails however you like.

Also in this issue we celebrate our graduates and many other young neighbors. See a series of stories that begin on page 18. And as usual, browse around these pages for other stories, offerings from our supporters, news and happenings. I hope you enjoy what we’ve put together for you this month!

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.

June 2016

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June 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

IT’S TIME FOR A REAL ESTATE ALTERNATIVE IN THE ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS

knowledgeable, “Attentive, and by far the best realtor we’ve ever worked with. ” ~Ryan & Joanna

SERVICE: Active listening, around the clock availability and providing unparalleled service are the foundations of my business. Unlike many of my competitors, my model is all about quality rather than quantity.

I’M YOUR NEIGHBOR: Living in the Issaquah Highlands for over 10 years, I am passionate about our community and will put my first-hand knowledge to work for you.

RESULTS: From award-winning videographers and photographers, to eye-catching marketing materials, to an extensive market analysis of your home, I will deliver the results you deserve.

GIVING BACK: There is nothing more important than the education of our children. That is why I will donate 5% of my commission directly to the Issaquah Schools Foundation.

Please contact me anytime for more details or to receive a comprehensive market analysis of your home.

ISSAQUAH SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

JASON MAYBELL | JASON@PNWESTATES.COM | 206.755.4887 | PNWESTATES.COM

Issaquah Highlands Connections

June 2016

The Great Trail Maker, David Kappler

by Nina Milligan, Highlands Council Communication Manager, Connections Editor

Meet David Kappler. He does not live in Issaquah Highlands, but has likely done more than any other single person on behalf of our parks and trails. David is the Vice President of Issues and Advocacy, and Past President, of the Issaquah Alps Trails Club (IATC). David served on the Issaquah City Council from 1991 through 2008. Through it all he advocated for trails and open spaces. In 2006 he was awarded the Ruth Kees Award, Issaquah’s highest environmental recognition.

David Kappler has been a big part of Issaquah Highlands for a long time. He recognized way back in the 70s that Urban Villages provided a development model for preserving forest land. Port Blakely employed this model in designing our community, preserving four acres of open space or park for every one acre that was built on.

As Issaquah Highlands was built out, David led hiking tours of the Highlands, escorting hikers up through the magnificent forest of Grand Ridge Park and then down through the densely populated neighborhoods, evangelizing how to preserve open space by trading for higher density.

Kappler led the official 2006 Arbor Day hike in Issaquah Highlands. “It was raining and blowing and really windy,” Kappler said. But the hikers “got a taste of the concept of the urban village. They saw high-density housing and open spaces.”

Quoted in the Issaquah Press, April 12, 2006

And all through our development David has been involved, making sure that parks and trails are considered at every step. Most recently David identified, designed and led the charge for the forest path that will now be part of Westridge South. This development consists of 73 new homes replacing the pond and trail just west of Swedish Hospital. Though not at all like the current pond trail, David’s trail will delight walkers and hikers as it snakes through the forest along the edge of the ridge.

Photo Credit: Nina Milligan

And there is yet another trail on the boards for David, an “interpretive trail” that would meander through forested land owned by the City of Issaquah just west of the lighted soccer fields. Hikers would access it off the paved trail to Forest Ridge. The soft surface trail and natural setting would be a peaceful path with opportunities to learn about our forests. David intends it to be open only to walkers and hikers.

“The community deserves a trail in the forest that they can walk on and not get run over by a bike.”

David’s trail would take you out to a steep slope edge along very a deep ravine. Turning westward along the top of this edge, your destination is a high, viewpoint at the southwestern end. The views of the Issaquah Alps are stunning. Its proximity to Grand Ridge Elementary would provide a great resource for the kids.

We asked the great trail designer, “How would you go about designing and implementing such a trail?”

“The way to get a new trail constructed is to first meet with residents and take them out to see what you have in mind. For this trail, the Issaquah Highlands community has to like it and think it is worthwhile. I think the community deserves such a trail.

Then you create a volunteer team. The IATC and WTA are great resources for this. Oh, yeah. And you will still need some funding…”

Thank you, David! Keep up the great work!

Photo Credit: Nina Milligan

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June 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Central Park - A Timeline to Big Changes, Coming Soon!

by Nina Milligan, Highlands Council Communication Manager, Connections Editor

Origins:

2003: After two public hearings in March, the Urban Village Development Commission approved in April 2003 a Site Development Permit, including the Central Park site development plan. The site development plan identified how the 50 acres would be developed, including circulation, parking and recreational improvements.

City ordinance required that parks be closed from dusk to dawn. However, due to high demand for ball fields, the city included in this Site Development Permit installation of underground utilities that would allow expansion of use through lighting fields at a later date.

Park Bonds

2006: Voters approved funding for artificial turf and field lighting for Pad #3, the lighted soccer fields in the southern end of the park. This bond measure allocated $1.124 million to Pad #3 improvements and passed with a 76% voter approval rating.

2010: The City celebrated the official grand opening of the $2.4 million, Central Park Pad #3 artificial turf fields.

2013: Issaquah voters approved a $10M parks bond package with a 77% voter approval rating that included $1.55M to “Install all-weather/artificial turf and lighting at Central Park” for Pad #1, the baseball field next to the large playground.

2014-15: Three grants totaling $825,000 have been awarded to Issaquah by the State Recreation and Conservation Office and King County. Grant funds will be applied to the cost of the estimated $3.4M project (not including additional parking [estimated +$1M], road widening improvements [estimated +$100K], picnic shelter and other amenities [estimated +$50K]).

2015: The City of Issaquah assembled a Citizen’s Advisory Committee to aid in the Pad #1 field design. This committee is comprised of city staff, their consultant, and multiple volunteers from several youth sports organizations / community members.

Photo Credit: Janani Vaid’yanathan

1993: Central Park sits on land dedicated to the City of Issaquah as part of the “mitigation” for Montreux, a housing development located on Cougar Mountain off of Newport Way. The City received this property in lieu of park mitigation fees and therefore must use the property for parks or recreational uses.

2015: On October 27, 2015 staff from the City of Issaquah Parks and Recreation Department hosted a Public Input Meeting at Blakely Hall to share design details about the Pad #1 artificial turf and lighting improvements. The new field design increases capacity by adding artificial turf, lighting and additional parking. Many neighbors were excited about the project; many were dismayed. Many expressed the desire to retain open, grass, play areas in Central Park.

On March 28, 2016 the Park Board held a public hearing at Tibbets Creek Manor to review the Pad #1 artificial turf project field design proposal. Many of the attending public spoke out in support of the proposal. Almost all were sports team members from Issaquah; some were from Sammamish. The Park Board voted unanimously in support of Pad #1 artificial turf field project as presented: the field layout, proposed LED field lights, slit film turf, SBR crumb rubber in-fill, fencing, street widening, picnic shelter and pervious asphalt parking lot. Park Board recommendations are advisory to the Mayor’s office.

The staff at the City of Issaquah Parks and Recreation Department worked with the Park Board and their consultant to incorporate the Pad #1 improvements into a comprehensive update to Central Park.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

June 2016

Amending the Master Site Permit

Late in 2015 the Department of Development Services deemed the proposed Central Park Pad #1 improvements significant enough to require the Parks Department to submit a major amendment to the original Site Development Permit. A Site Development Permit approves land use. Separate construction and/or site work permits are required for construction of park elements.

The Urban Village Development Commission (UVDC) will review and render a decision on the Site Development Permit (Pads #1, and #4 and other amenities within Central Park). Proceedings are expected to begin in Fall 2016, including public hearings.

In the meantime, in its advisory role, the Park Board approved the design of Pad #1 (the artificial turf fields) in March 2016 (see details left). The Park Board also reviewed a conceptual plan for Pad #4 on April 25th. Pad #4 is approximately 12 acres of City of Issaquah park land that stretches out west from the Central Park access road, south of Grand Ridge Elementary and north of the Bellevue College property. Pad #4 plans will return to the Park Board in June or July.

The City-proposed conceptual plan for Pad #4 provides an open natural grass play space. Also included are additional picnic shelters, a woodland seating/amphitheater, parking and a new community building.

Funding the estimated $1.2M costs for Pad #4 (not including the community building) is yet to be determined.

For more information, see issaquahwa.gov/centralpark. The Master Site Plan application will be part of the “Active Projects List” on the City’s website. Also, take advantage of the many public meetings that will be addressing this topic, from Park Board to City Council committee meetings.

Central Park Town Hall Meeting Wednesday, June 22nd, 6:00 – 8:00pm Blakely Hall

City of Issaquah Park Board

Regularly scheduled meeting June 27th or July 25th Review and approve the new Pad #4 design and the Central Park Development Plan

July or August

The Parks and Recreation Department will submit the Central Park Development Plan/Permit

October or November

The Urban Village Development Commission reviews and approves/ denies the Plan/Permit

Issaquah Highlands Resident Volunteering for You!

Linda Whitworth, City of Issaquah Park Board, Vice Chair. Linda has served on the Park Board for seven years. As an Issaquah Highlands resident, Linda has volunteered in many roles including on the IHCA Board of Directors.

“The Park Board provides guidance and direction in meeting the City’s parks and recreational needs by advising the Mayor and Parks & Recreation Director on matters relating to the planning; acquisition, development; and operation of parks, facilities and recreational programs inside the City limits.”

The Central Park Pad #4 Conceptual Plan was reviewed and discussed by the Park Board on April 25th. This proposal will return to the Park Board for further examination in June or July.

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June 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Community Built Parks & Trails

by Marc Steingrebe, Sorrento

We are lucky to be surrounded by great parks and trails. It’s one of the reasons my wife Marilyn and I chose to live in the Issaquah Highlands. We’ve been here for just over 13 years and have enjoyed watching and helping the nearby parks and trails evolve and improve. There has been a lot of work put into building and maintaining our parks and trails, much of it by volunteers. We used to be part of the now gone, volunteer “Issaquah Highlands Parks and Trails Committee”.

Some highlights of our small neighborhood volunteer committee accomplishments include: • Helped build, maintain, and name parks and trails, such as Daphne Park, Kirk Park, Summit Park, Lee’s Loop, etc. We also chose certain age-appropriate playground equipment to fit the age of children using specific parks.

• Proposed and helped build the South Pond trail (connecting Central Park to the Grand Ridge trail) • Maintained and improved Kathy’s Trail, removing a lot of scotch broom • Maintained the old Forest Ridge Trail (now paved, between NE Falls Drive & Central Park) • Helped plant new trees around the Harrison street water towers, an event organized by the City of Issaquah • Installed bat boxes around the community to help control insects and mosquitoes Trails we proposed that have not been built: • A trail that connects Kathy’s trail with the Roanoke Woods & Dahlia Park • A trail connecting Grand View or Dahlia Park with Mine Creek (east of Magnolia Park)

Just another fun day volunteering building trails and planting trees – author, resident Marc Steingrebe.

• And a trail connecting Magnolia Park with NE Harrison Street We accomplished a lot as a volunteer committee. It makes me really glad to see people and families out there enjoying the parks and trails. We couldn’t have done it without great support from neighborhood volunteers, the City of Issaquah, and the developer, Port Blakely.

There are still great volunteer opportunities for people who are interested. Here are a few examples for you: Issaquah Alps Trails Club (http://issaquahalps.org/) City of Issaquah (ci.issaquah.wa.us): Volunteer to serve on the Park Board, to coach sports or to participate in open space stewardship Washington Trails Association (wta.org): Trail building and maintenance in Grand Ridge Park King County Parks (kingcounty.gov/services/parks-recreation/parks) Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance (evergreenmtb.org): Creators of the Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Skills Park and don’t miss the annual: Evergreen Mountain Bike Festival Saturday and Sunday, June 11-12th Free!

And who cares about the parking shortage?? We RIDE there! evergreenmtbfestival.com

Author Marc Steingrebe and others helped install bat boxes throughout the Highlands, these near Fire Station Park.

Issaquah Highlands resident pioneer Lee Houston enjoyed many hours volunteering in the community, working in the forest being just one part of his service.

Issaquah Highlands friends and neighbors gathered on a beautiful day to replant trees at the water tower at the top of the community.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

June 2016

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

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Restoring Ashland Park, with Milenko

by Erika North, IHCA Senior Community Manager Twenty years ago, when Issaquah Highlands was still in its conceptual stage, a prominent visionary and self-described “recovering artist”, Milenko Matanovic, was introduced to the CEO of Port Blakely Communities, Judd Kirk.

Milenko became an integral part of the planning of this now vibrant and remarkable community, Issaquah Highlands. I had the pleasure of meeting with Milenko recently to learn more about his involvement with the planning of Issaquah Highlands and his marvelous contributions to this community.

When asked how he thinks parks need to change over time, he responded, “They need to be aesthetic.”

Relating to this concept and to introduce more elements of art to the park, the center pole and light posts were carved with spiral grooves and painted with either a blue to green variegation depicting the sky to grass or a yellow to red symbolizing the sun and earth. The spiral effect is carried out in the landscape with twelve flagstone pathways embedded in the cement and grass circling out from the pole. A colorful orange stain used on the cement added to the dynamism of the park.

Milenko, a native of Slovenia and former member of the celebrated group OHO, turned his focus toward the collaboration connecting art with community building. As Milenko puts it, “When it comes to community, together we always know more.” In 1986 he founded the Pomegranate Center, located in downtown Issaquah, believing that magic happens when art, creative thinking, and community join forces. Milenko’s designs characteristically incorporate the elements of public art into centrally located gathering places. This can be seen in many of his projects throughout cities in the U.S. and abroad.

As time passes, the park has weathered with faded paint, cracked cement, missing stones and a broken fountain. Several ideas were being considered vis-à-vis supplanting the park but since it is laden with significant history and meaning for Issaquah Highlands, the park will be restored this summer to reawaken the vibrancy of its original splendor and purpose. The fountain will be restored, the cedar poles repaired and painted and the stones replaced. Milenko will aide in the renovation to ensure the elements remain intact and the beauty of the park restored to its proper glory.

As his vision coincided naturally with the philosophies of Port Blakely, Milenko was instrumental in the development of the Issaquah Highlands Guiding Principles. These were built around concepts such as sustainability, environmental stewardship, community building and values that encouraged mixed use residential hubs and gathering places within the residential neighborhoods.

With these principles in mind, Milenko developed the design of the first park to be built in Issaquah Highlands, Ashland Park. Ashland Park encompasses elements creating a gathering place for the new community.

At the time of its construction, it was in a central location for the area. The center point of the park, marked by the 65’ cedar pole, is exactly where the four surrounding roads converged. At the base of the pole is a stage that faces a naturally sloped, grassy amphitheater. At the top of the amphitheater is a stairway that leads to a woonerf, or “living street”, designed for pedestrian traffic to be funneled into the park. The stage is backed by a large beautiful boulder, salvaged from nearby construction and turned into a charismatic fountain. Water runs down the rock and through a stream bed and forms a pond behind the stage. A cement semicircle backs the stage and fountain area. Surrounding the park are magnificent natural seating walls made of river rocks, many recovered from the park site itself. Ambient light, illuminating from carved light posts made from cedar trees reclaimed from the site, lights the parameter of the park at night. Also featured is a playground with wooden benches made from repurposed trees.

Responses provided by Sarah Hoey, Executive Director, IHCA 1. Would it be possible to have a community calendar (i.e.

Google docs) to allow residents to reserve the community park spaces rather than having to do a first come, first serve that day? It would allow for easier planning for residents. If needed, a small rental fee could be charged to help cover the cost of managing the sign up.

–IHCA Resident Thank you for contacting the “Ask the IHCA”. Great question.

Nineteen of the parks located within the community are maintained by the IHCA. Grand View, Black Nugget and Central Park are maintained by the City of Issaquah.

The parks were built to allow access to all neighbors and are on a 1st come 1st serve basis. Our staff routinely removes posted personal reservation signs from common areas within the parks.

We have posted our own IHCA authorized “first come first serve, no reserving signs” at the parks this summer. Unfortunately, the IHCA and Highlands Council are not on staff during the weekend (except for emergencies) which is what would be needed to accommodate this type of reservations schedule.

Other locations in Issaquah Highlands are also adorned with Milenko’s art designs. The imposing water tower along Park Drive is embellished with his brushed ‘wisps’ of reflective steel depicting clouds and rain. And the side of the building that currently houses the IHCA offices is decorated with the same reflective steel symbolizing the glacial melt flow.

This community is unquestionably privileged to have the influence of this talented and insightful visionary and we look forward to rejuvenating one of his most significant contributions to Issaquah Highlands.

ASK THE IHCA!

2. I live in a house with two stories and a basement. I have windows with leaking problems. When there are strong winds with rain, water will leak through the top of the windows.

What companies would you recommend to me to fix this issue?

–IHCA Resident Thank you for contacting the “Ask the IHCA”. As the IHCA doesn’t work with window vendors. I’m afraid we do not have a recommendation for you. It sounds like you may have a flashing issue. I would suggest trying HomeAdvisor.com – they vet good contractors and their service is free to use on the internet.

We look forward to hearing from more of you. Please keep submitting your questions. You might be featured in an upcoming issue. To Ask the IHCA, visit IssaquahHighlands.com.

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June 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Are you Leasing your Single Family Home or Condo?

by Collene Cordova, IHCA Owner Service Coordinator-Compliance

We have many Issaquah Highlands owners who are leasing (renting) their single family homes or condos. Some think this is not allowed and thus do not notify the IHCA of their forwarding address or the name and contact information of the tenant. Below is the excerpt regarding this rule from the Issaquah Highlands Use Restriction and Rules (“Rules) for Residential Properties: (v) Leasing of Units. “Leasing,” for purposes of this Paragraph, is defined as regular exclusive occupancy of a Unit by any person, other than the Owner, for which the Owner receives any consideration or benefit, including, but not limited to, a fee, service, gratuity, or emolument. All leases shall be in writing. The Board may require a minimum lease term, which requirements may vary from Neighborhood to Neighborhood. Notice of any lease, including tenant contact information, together with such additional information as may be required by the Board, shall be given to the Board by the Unit Owner within 10 days of the execution of the lease. The Owner must make available to the lessee (tenant) copies of the Declaration, Bylaws, Community Wide Standards and these Use Restrictions and Rules.

It is important that we have your forwarding address so that you may receive mailings such as semiannual statements, proposed budgets, voting information etc. Also, when we are aware that a unit is occupied by a tenant and a violation notice is issued, it is sent to both the owner at their forwarding address and the resident at the property address. If a fine is imposed on your account and you are leasing your unit and have not notified us, the fine will not be waived simply because you were not notified. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the owner to make sure that their tenants are aware of, and follow the rules.

If you are currently leasing (renting) your home or condo, please email Collene.c@ ihcommunity.org with your forwarding address and contact number and the name(s) and a contact number for your tenant(s).

Conserving Irrigation Water Pays Off

by Russ Ayers, IHCA Landscaping Manager

Another summer is upon us and with so many new residents, and the memory of last year’s record heat fresh in our memory, it is worth noting a few of the protocols of common area irrigation here at Issaquah Highlands.

We also want to enlist your help in spotting and reporting leaks and runaway valves as this is a big help in minimizing water waste, keeping irrigation costs from running away, too.

With the highest water rates in the state (and indeed most of the nation), water conservation pays off handsomely in Issaquah. Common area and selected neighborhood irrigation systems automatically follow the weather, the driver of irrigation demand, to precisely match the water we apply to the water needs of our landscapes. It’s automated but still requires active management, proactive maintenance and help from you. If you see water running during the day there should be an IHCA groundskeeper nearby. If there isn’t, report the event and location to: irrigation@ihcommunity. org or call 425-507-1130.

Most of our irrigation zones feature “pop-up” spray-type sprinklers which run for less than 10 minutes per cycle. If they stay on longer something is

probably wrong and it should be reported. Large turf areas such as parks feature “rotor” sprinklers which typically run for 15-25 minutes per cycle.

We irrigate at night to reduce losses to evaporation, wind and vandalism (plus this leaves parks available to people during the day). We also avoid irrigation during weekends so long as the weather allows. In other words, sprinklers in parks should not be running during the day or on weekends. If you see this, please report it.

In 2015 it was so hot and dry for so long we often irrigated every night and even began stretching the “water window” from nighttime hours into the morning for the first time ever. 2015 saw irrigation demand peg out at 152% of normal. But thanks to our ongoing investments in conservation and technology, water use only rose to 108% of normal. IHCA continues to invest in irrigation technology and support to bring more systems and neighborhoods into the Toro Sentinel central control system. Cultural practices such as aeration, mulching, mowing higher (and even skipping mows) will continue, too. All combined they are a cost-effective way to maintain an attractive landscape through challenging weather conditions.

Accounting Update: PAY ONLINE Upcoming July 2016 ASSESSMENTS

IHCA Assessments Reminder: The new annual Issaquah Highlands Community Association homeowner assessments are effective July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2017. Homeowners who pay with auto bank debit (ACH), your monthly assessments will be updated starting with the July 2016 payment. For check payers, the semi-annual assessments are due in July and January. Payments not received by 10th of that month may incur additional collection charges.

ARC Tip of the Month: Did you know… ANY changes or additions to the exterior of your home or yard need Architectural Review Committee (ARC) approval prior to implementing the change. The IHCA has compiled an ARC Guidelines document that outlines the process and details different component restrictions and suggestions. The Guidelines can be found on, issaquahhighlands.com. Please do not make changes without approval.

This is the sort of water waste we aim to minimize. Please report scenes like this one.

Effective June 2016, one time semi-annual assessments and other one-time miscellaneous charges (e.g., fines, other), now have the option to pay with Mutual of Omaha Bank’s on-line payment portal. Their link will be available through Issaquahhighlands.com. Through this link, one time payments can be made online via eCheck /billpay from any checking account - with no fees. It also allows for one-time payment with credit cards or debit cards; however, there is a fixed fee charged to the homeowner for this service.

Please direct inquiries to 425-507-1119 or payments@ihcommunity.org.

Issaquah Highlands Use Restrictions & Rules Reminders:

No Fireworks!

Use or discharge of firecrackers and other fireworks is not allowed, by URRS and City Law. Thank you for doing your part.

IHCA Annual Meeting The IHCA Annual Meeting will take place at Blakely Hall, June 29th at 6:00 P.M. Following the IHCA Board of Directors Meeting at 5:30 P.M. Please attend as we will be electing new members to the Board! Come show your support for the community and the Board as they look ahead to the next IHCA fiscal year.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

June 2016

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

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IHCA Honors the Landscaping Team

In honor and recognition of this month’s issue of Connections focusing on parks and the great outdoors, the IHCA would like to acknowledge the exemplary and hardworking landscaping team that keeps our parks and open spaces in tip-top shape! You see their work every day yet they are undoubtedly the unsung heroes of the Issaquah Highlands – staying busy in all weather conditions to ensure that all of our many parks and open spaces are kept up (they maintain about 75% of the site, four contractors have the other 25%). It’s because of their unyielding dedication and attention to detail that Issaquah Highlands is so renowned and coveted by residents and admirers alike.

This month, whenever you see the iconic bright orange t-shirt of the Issaquah Highlands landscaping crew, make sure to thank them for their hard work in keeping Issaquah Highlands green. Let’s bring them from behind the scenes to the front lines and draw our attention to them.

Thanks guys, you ROCK!

From left to right: Brennan, Julio, Jesus, Tony, Jaime and Pedro.

Lyle - Landscape Supervisor

Vacation Checklist

by Collene Cordova, IHCA Owner Service Coordinator-Compliance Summer is almost here and vacations are being planned.

Maybe a trip to Maui with a bike ride down Haleakala, Disneyland to meet a special someone’s favorite princess, visiting family on the east coast or maybe just a lazy trip over to the San Juans. Whatever your plans, make sure you’ve made arrangements with a neighbor or house sitter to take care of your home while you’re away.

Trash cans may not be left outside while you are away.

If your trip begins on Friday, which is trash pickup day, please make arrangements with your neighbor, a family member or house sitter to return your cans to your garage. This is also an opportunity to let your neighbors know that you will be out of town and ask if they would keep a watchful eye on your home while you are away.

If you will only be gone for one week, your lawn should not become too overgrown providing it was mowed and trimmed before your trip. However, if you are gone for more than a week, please make arrangements to have the lawn tended to in your absence. This could also entail turning on the sprinkler a few times during the week or watering your flower pots so that you don’t return home to a container of dead plants. This may be a good job for a neighbor teen that would like to earn money over the summer.

You want your home to look like someone is there. Place a few indoor lights on timers.

Same with the outside lights or install motion detecting lights. Also remember to discontinue any newspaper subscriptions. A dark house, with blinds drawn, old newspapers in the driveway and an overgrown lawn are signs that no one is home and can be a welcome invitation to a burglar. Your trip will be much more enjoyable if you know someone is taking care of your home while you are away.

REAL ESTATE IN THE HIGHLANDS

Magnolia Park

by Aimee Holy, Erik Mehr & Associates and Dahlia Park Resident Magnolia Park is located at the “top left” of the Highlands. Just make a left at Zeeks and follow 25th Ave all the way up to a little slice of heaven. You are greeted by a charming pavilion located in the park that is the centerpiece to this community. The way this neighborhood is set up beckons the kids to come out and play. The park is well-equipped with a basketball court, play structure, grassy field for soccer or cricket and a pavilion with picnic tables to play games or have a happy hour and enjoy the view. The streets are quite narrow which forces you to slow way down. This is a good thing as there are multitudes of kids riding in these streets.

Flanked on three sides by almost two thousand wooded acres owned by King County, the western edge of Magnolia Park is clear and homeowners have jaw dropping views of the Olympics and a glimpse of Seattle. Magnolia Park was built by Steven Burnstead Construction in 2005. The Burnstead family have been building quality homes in the North West for over 50 years and they did not disappoint here in Magnolia Park. Homes range in size from approximately 2200 square feet to 3700 square feet, with the larger homes on green space. Well-appointed with Burnstead touches, these homes just feel good to be in.

The green belt homes run close to $900K - one just closed at $895K. This of course depends on the layout and lot. Inner loop homes run about $700K+. The Highlands is a seasonal market, so when you list will make a big difference in the sales price. For example, a home listed near Christmas sold for $150K less than a home marketed during the spring.

Magnolia Park residents had lots of nice things to say about their community: Emily K: “Our family just moved here a little over four months ago. I have three daughters, ages 10, 9, and 4, and I was sold on the home because of the gorgeous park right in front of our house with a playground, basketball goal, large grassy area for lots of games or activities, a pavilion...I could go on and on.”

Molly M: “We just moved to Magnolia Park this month, but so far love the strong neighborhood and community vibe as well as the park where we spend time almost daily with our two-year-old.”

Joan D: “I love love love our hood! The awesome Magnolia Park, the quiet and safe streets for our kids to bike on, and such gorgeous surroundings (green belt and landscaping, etc.), but by far the best part of Magnolia are the amazing neighbors!!!”

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

Highlands Council Welcomes New Trustee

by Christy Garrard, Executive Director, Dahlia Park Resident

The Issaquah Highlands Council Board of Trustees welcomed its newest member, Dr. Ami Desai-Mehta at its quarterly meeting on May 3rd. Ami is a scientist specializing in molecular genetics. She currently serves on the University of Washington’s Institutional Review Board for clinical trials. She fills a homeowner seat on the board vacated by long-time resident Stuart Johnson. Ami has been an active resident-volunteer in Issaquah Highlands since 2004. She has been a member of the Community Development Committee, an alternate voting member for the IHCA, and served on the Highlands Council Transition Committee.

Ami says, “We live in an amazing community. It is critical that great work being done by the current members continue and our community standards are preserved. I’d like to help continue to maintain the same.” When asked what area she thinks Highlands Council could improve for the community she responded, “ensuring new families moving into our community have support and the information they need to integrate themselves better.”

Board Composition The Highlands Council affairs are governed by the Board of Trustees, each member with one equal vote.

Two Council Trustees must be homeowners in Issaquah Highlands, two Trustees must represent retail/ commercial entities, and two Trustees must represent multi-family housing. Phil Nored, owner of the Discovery Heights and Discovery West apartments and Fred Nystrom, executive director of Life Enrichment Options (LEO House) occupy the multi-family Trustee seats. Larry Norton, Board President, and Patrick Byers are homeowner trustees. Jody Turner, executive for Proliance Orthpaedics, and Dr. Ray Besherati, owner of Highlands Dentistry represent the retail/commercial Trustee seats.

For more information about Highlands Council visit IssaquahHighlands.com/Learn/HighlandsCouncil.

Dr. Ami Desai-Mehta, long-time Issaquah Highlands resident and volunteer, joins Highlands Council Board of Trustees.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

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20 Years of Sustainability, Issaquah Highlands

by Nina Milligan, Highlands Council Communication Manager, Connections Editor

20 years ago, on June 18, 1996, Issaquah’s then mayor, Rowan Hinds, set his signature to the document that created Issaquah Highlands: Grand Ridge Annexation and Development Agreement. James Warjone, President of Grand Ridge Partnership and CEO of Port Blakely Companies, placed his signature representing Port Blakely Companies. Though he was not a signing party, Judd Kirk took the helm at Issaquah Highlands early on, employing his collaboration and communication skills to engage key stakeholders in the innovative vision.

But life is what it is so we make do with what we have at the time. In any case, what we now have surely beats the alternative of letting King County develop the Highlands. Basically, until recently, whenever King County sneezed, Issaquah caught a cold. I guess what compelled me to annex Grand Ridge is that I was more comfortable with our (City of Issaquah) finger on the button than anyone else’s finger.”

Grand Ridge Partnership, later known as Port Blakely Communities, worked with city and regional leaders to bring a new way of developing rural land to the northwest: the urban village.

Rather than spreading houses out, each on their own five-acre lot as King County had the area zoned, the pioneers of Issaquah Highlands learned through their research that people desired a stronger sense of place, a walkable community where neighbors knew one another, and worked together as one community. Together, these leaders preserved open space, concentrated development and set an example for New Urbanism, a trend still emerging today.

The City and Port Blakely Communities started Issaquah Highlands as an experiment on the outskirts of Issaquah, to pioneer a new kind of neighborhood in the suburbs. Together we reintroduced a social component to suburban neighborhoods by building a street oriented, walkable public realm. We partnered to incorporate progressively more sustainable construction (like the Idea Home and zHome) and green building expectations (increasing levels of BuiltGreen homes).

The impact of the partnership went beyond Issaquah Highlands as, for instance, the partnership worked with individual builders to change the way they did business. By building projects that were both financially successful as well as smart, efficient, and oriented to people not parking lots and cars, builders altered the character of projects being constructed in the region and nationally. In the end, we re-engineered the suburban model in ways that have now become standard for many new suburban neighborhoods.

Not only do the locals find Issaquah Highlands interesting but the community became known around the world for innovations in sustainability, land conservation and for quality of life for its residents.

The innovations were many, but one of the most impactful was using a “transfer of development rights” to conserve land and to establish density. Technically speaking, for every one acre of developed land, Port Blakely set aside four acres of park land. We are surrounded by 1,500+ acres of open space and parks. 1,200 of those acres became King County rural open space, now Grand Ridge Park. An additional 173 acres were protected with conservation easements and over 100 acres were put into active park spaces, such as Ashland Park.

The development rights from the park land were densely consolidated in the remaining property, which was annexed into the City of Issaquah. In the original Development Agreement, the following maximums were set for future development*: 3,250 Residential Units 2,950,000 Square Feet of Commercial Space 425,000 Square Feet of Retail Space

*Future Development Agreements transferred additional development rights to protect other natural areas in and around Issaquah, increasing both the residential and commercial allocations. For instance, Issaquah Highlands now has 4,900 residential units allowed, approximately 4,000 currently built or under construction.

Such development comes in over a long period of time. The first homeowners arrived in 1998.

Swedish Hospital opened in 2011. Grand Ridge Plaza did not open until 2013. And Issaquah Highlands continues to develop, with 73 new homes approved this spring for the property directly west of Swedish. 1.2 million square feet of commercial space is still undeveloped.

As we look back over the last 20 years here, please enjoy the following voices and perspectives from a few of the leaders whose work made Issaquah Highlands a very special place.

+++++++++

“With this development agreement, what we were really doing was rewriting the rules of suburbia. The people of Issaquah had become frustrated with the rapid growth of the 1980s and felt that infrastructure and open space needs were outpaced by growth. The Development Agreement established infrastructure (roads, etc.) and open space up front to accommodate all planned growth in the project. Affordable housing, jobs and open space – all these were planned for in the agreement. The Urban Village approach was appealing to Issaquah, but could not be built under city regulations dealing with things like streets, sidewalks and lot sizes. Unique for suburbia was the clustered density the Highlands enjoys today, with special features such as alley-loaded homes placed on common greens where neighbors could congregate, children could play. In the suburban world where the back yard ruled the day, this was a dramatically different and very welcome offering.

Since it would take up to 20 years to build out the community, the Development Agreement was necessary in order to provide predictability that the City, early residents and Port Blakely could rely upon.”

Judd Kirk, CEO, Port Blakely Communities, Senior Vice President, Port Blakely Company, Retired +++++++++ “Overall, Issaquah Highlands has been a great addition to our city and the community - the people definitely! I think the people of Issaquah Highlands are my favorite part. But the Highlands have not, yet, turned out the way I hoped. In particular, not having the jobs arrive along with all the housing is probably the biggest disappointment. And the community not being as ‘walkable’ for a majority of the residents.

Also, I would have liked a more ‘downtown’ feel in the retail area.

Rowan Hinds served as the City of Issaquah’s Mayor from 1990-1997 after serving many years on the City Council. Rowan continues to contribute to the community in many ways, most recently serving on the City’s Traffic Task Force, and was inducted into the City of Issaquah’s Hall of Fame on May 10, 2016. +++++++

Lucy Sloman, City of Issaquah, Land Development Manager & Designated Official for the Urban Villages. Lucy was hired in 1996 as a founding member of the City of Issaquah’s Major Development Review Team, and has been working on the development of Issaquah Highlands ever since. +++++++

I think the Issaquah Highlands (IH) Development Agreement (DA) gave “us” a pretty amazing map and compass to build IH. First of all, by “us,” I mean the residents, City staff, commissions, developers, and anyone else involved in building IH. A map is better than rules. We could keep within the intent, but we had latitude to refine as we went along. Developers could get creative. Commissioners could suggest.

Residents could learn. The City could evolve.

Since we didn’t have precise rules that we had to follow, the participants could learn and adapt. Learn how narrower street widths work. Understand how block sizes should adapt to provide better pedestrian flow. We could see firsthand that despite best intentions, we didn’t get everything right.

Some of the phrases or concepts in the DA that seemed foreign or impractical at first turned out to be the most valuable. I still chuckle at the phrase coined for IH, “sociable public realm”. But that sociable public realm has given us amazing experiences like Grand Ridge Plaza on a sunny Saturday full of people and activity and other great spaces such as Central Park. Last year, my family moved to our third house in 18 years in IH and part of the attraction of our new location is the plaza right in front of our home, as well as the proximity to shopping and dining. I know from my experience on the UVDC and using the IH DA, that those things were made possible by the DA! Karl Leigh, Brownstones Resident, Vice Chair – Urban Village Development Commission (UVDC), Chair – Economic Vitality Commission. Karl and his family moved into Issaquah Highlands as one of the first families to settle here in 1998. The Leighs now live in their third Issaquah Highlands home. ++++++++++++ Come back next month to learn about the ThreeParty Development Agreement between Grand Ridge, the City of Issaquah and King County. This circa 1996 photo gathered the leaders together (l-r): Jim Ellis, Mountains to Sound Greenway; Jane Hague and Cynthia Sullivan of the King County Council; Gary Locke, King County Executive; Rowan Hinds, City of Issaquah Mayor and Judd Kirk, Port Blakely Communities.

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Premier Retirement Living at University House Issaquah

Immerse yourself in a warm, vibrant community with a vast array of amenities, rich programming, and exceptional Independent Living and Assisted Living care.

Call (425) 200-0331 for a personal visit, or learn more at eraliving.com

22975 SE Black Nugget Road, Issaquah, WA 98029

June 2016

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS

Annual Meeting of the IHCA

Chinese Heritage Club

Following the Board of Directors Meeting at 5:30pm the IHCA will host the Annual Membership Meeting for Homeowners at 6:00pm. At this meeting Sarah Hoey, Executive Director for the IHCA will recap the previous year’s accomplishments, outline projects for the year ahead and introduce the new members to the Board of Directors.

Immediately following the Annual Membership Meeting, at 6:30pm the City of Issaquah will host a Town Hall meeting regarding traffic issues in the city.

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. Contact: Hailain 425-633-0242 or lian_lhl@hotmail.com

Wednesday, June 29th 6pm Blakely Hall

Art in Blakely Hall

The Incredible Intensity of Just Being Human Gallery Open Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm Author Talk: Perfect Chaos Thursday, June 2nd 6pm-8pm

Author Cinda Johnson, presents her book “Perfect Chaos, a Daughter’s Struggle to Survive Bipolar and a Mother’s Journey to Save Her.” FREE and open to the public.

Bird Friendly Communities Talk Monday, June 13th, 7:00pm – 8:00pm Blakely Hall

Eastside Audubon’s Callie Hall presents Bird Friendly Communities, a nationwide campaign to restore and protect wildlife habitat in order to maintain biodiversity for future generations. Learn how to attract birds in your own backyard and ways to get involved in the community supporting sustainability in parks and open spaces, making the community better for birds, and for people.

Refreshments provided by Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park.

Book Club

Location & Dates vary

The book club is a great place to meet neighbors and explore a variety of books. We meet at Big Fish Grill.

Dates sometimes change, so be sure to email lindsey8@gmail.com to be added to the Facebook group.

Bridge Club

Monday, June 6th, 7:00pm – 10:00pm 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.

Central Park Improvement Plan Update Meeting

Sunday, June 5th, Noon - 3:00pm Resumes September Blakely Hall

Community Garden Work Party Saturday, June 4th, 10am-2pm Vista Garden!

Vista Gardeners will continue to make improvements to the garden area, and perform routine maintenance of the common areas.

Diaper Derby for Eastside Baby Corner

Through June 10th Blakely Hall, IHCA Office & Carter’s

Everyone join in to put Issaquah Highlands in the winner’s circle of this year’s Diaper Derby! With the support of Highlands Council, the IHCA and Grand Ridge Plaza, the entire community is on one team of race horses. Bring your diaper donations to Blakey Hall, Carter’s in Grand Ridge Plaza and/or the IHCA offices at 10th and High Streets.

Details at babycorner.org/

Family History Night

Tuesday, June 21st, 8:00pm - 9:00pm Resumes September Blakely Hall - FREE!

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 at 8 PM at Blakely Hall. Contact: Darrell Reising, dreising@gmail.com or 425-427-1417.

Garage Sale – Community Wide Saturday, June 18th Blakely Hall

You put of your signs and the IHCA will handle the advertising.

Don’t forget to take down your signs at the end of the day!

This is the first of two community sanctioned Garage Sale days.

Garage Sales are only allowed on officially sanctioned dates.

The last Garage Sale day for 2016 is Saturday, September 17th.

India Culture Club

Monday, June 27th, 7:00pm 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

NEW! Interior Design Club Thursday, June 2nd, 7:00pm Blakely Hall

This new 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

Knit for Life®

Mondays from 1:00pm to 3:00pm 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

Landscape Seminar

Monday, June 20th, 6:30pm – 7:30pm Blakely Hall

Presented by the IHCA. *Refreshments will be served* *Drawing for a Home Depot Gift Card* Pointers on how to get your yard ready for the summer months and how to avoid those pesky landscape violation notices.

Contact Collene.c@ihcommunity.org with questions.

Meaningful Movies

Wednesday, July 27th, 6:30pm- 8:30pm 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/

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) June 6th, 9:30am - 11:30am Resumes September Blakely Hall

Sponsored by Timberlake Church We meet twice monthly on Monday mornings through June.

Enjoy quality, positive programming just for moms. We make sure your little ones have an amazing time as well.

To register, timberlakechurch.com/mops

Wednesday, June 22nd, 6:00 - 8:00pm Blakely Hall

City of Issaquah staff will present the outcome of the traffic study and the Central Park Site Development Plan. They will be asking for community input on the concept for Pad #4 (the undeveloped section of Central Park just south of College Drive). SEE PAGE 6 for more details.

*All Events are FREE unless otherwise noted.

GOVERNANCE MEETINGS IHCA Architectural Review Committee Tuesday, 6/7, 6:00 pm IHCA Office

IHCA Annual Meeting Wednesday, 6/29, 6:00 pm, Blakely Hall

IHCA Finance Committee Tuesday, 6/14, 5:30 pm IHCA Office

HY Advisory Board Sunday, 6/26, 4:00 pm, Blakely Hall

Highlands Fiber Network Advisory Group Thursday, 6/8, 5:00pm, Blakely Hall

Meetings are subject to change.

See Calendar at issaquahhighlands.com for more information or date changes.

IHCA Board of Directors Wednesday, 6/29, 5:30 pm, Blakely Hall

For City of Issaquah governance meetings, see http://issaquahwa.gov

Wednesday, June 29th Blakely Hall 5:30PM IHCA Board of Directors 6:00PM IHCA Membership Meeting 6:30PM Issaquah City - Traffic Town Hall

Issaquah Highlands Connections

June 2016

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS

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Minecraft Mania

Traffic Town Hall Meeting

NEW! Yoga Classes Sunday

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.

Come out and meet your fellow wine lovers in the Traffic is already a problem, and it’s not going away. That’s why the City of Issaquah doubled developer traffic fees, and is working with regional partners, enhancing pedestrian safety and making it easier to get around by foot or bike. Issaquah is also considering a package of local transportation projects that could go to voters this fall.

Join these free yoga classes for a systematic organized teaching as it is supposed 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 of Yoga required. Please bring your own yoga mat and do not eat anything for at least two hours before (except taking coffee/tea/milk/water is ok).

Contact: srik.satya@gmail.com

Resumes September Blakely Hall

Wednesday, June 29th, 6:30pm Blakely Hall

Travel Club Night See where it takes you!

Photography Club

Saturday, June 11th, 10:30am - Noon 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

Wednesday, June 15th, 7:00pm - 8:30pm Resumes in September Blakely Hall

Moms, dads, caregivers and their children are invited for fun, friendship, support and socializing. Contact katiels84@gmail.com and see facebook.com/IssaquahHighlands.coopplaygroup

Join us for a fun, informal night with your like-minded, travel-loving neighbors! Due to scheduling conflicts, June’s meeting is on the 15th and will highlight exotic and beautiful India. Also enjoy a short presentation TSA Pre-Check membership and the US Customs and Border Protection Global Entry traveler programs. 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! We will not meet in July or August, but we hope you will stop by our booth at Highlands Day on August 27th. In the meantime, we invite you to “like” us at www.facebook.com/HighlandsTravelClub/

Poker Night

Wine Club

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.

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.

Playgroup

Every Wednesday at 10:00am Through June 15th Newborn to Age 4 Blakely Hall

Thursday, June 30th, 7:00pm Blakely Hall

Rovin’ Fiddlers

Every Tuesday, 7:00pm-9:00pm Either at the Issaquah Highlands Fire Station 73 or Issaquah Senior Center

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

Running Club

Zumba Fitness Class

Tuesdays (7:00pm) & Saturdays (9:00am)

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.

Happy Father’s Day Sunday, June 19th

Yarns & Threads Group Every Friday at 9am Through June 24th Resumes in September Blakely Hall

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

Yoga Club Saturday

Saturdays 8:00am 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

Toastmasters Club

Wednesdays, 7:00am - 8:00am Swedish Medical Center 2nd Floor Conference Center

Cancelled in June Blakely Hall

Sundays at 7:45am Blakely Hall

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.

Saturdays at 10:30am Through June 11th Resumes in September 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: deyiny@microsoft.com

CALENDAR HOLIDAYS

National Go Barefoot Day Thursday, June 2nd National Trails Day (State Parks Free!)

Saturday, June 4th National Get Outdoors Day (State Parks Free!)

Saturday, June 11th

Flag Day Tuesday, June 14th

Summer Solstice Monday, June 20th (GMT)

Father’s Day Sunday, June 19th

D-Day Monday, June 6th

World Sauntering Day Sunday, June 19th

Ramadan starts Tuesday, June 7th

SAVE THE DATE

Movie and Discussion: TBD Wednesday, July 27th Highlands Day Festival Saturday, August 27th Noon - 4pm

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

graduation 2016 Soumya Ayelasomayajula

Issaquah High School Attend University of Washington or Western Washington University to graduate in Education and Psychology.

Kimia Behzad

Issaquah High School Attend Bellevue College for two years and then transfer to the University Of Washington to study Dentistry.

Farrah Casseus

Issaquah High School Continue attending Bellevue College to complete Associate of Arts degree.

Amadea Dyrhsen

Issaquah High School Attend Bellevue College for two years while continuing to work at Bellevue Nordstrom. Then transfer to a four-year college or university to study Business and Fashion Merchandising.

Anya Chaliotis

University of Washington, Master’s degree Pursue a career in Data Science.

Kennan Schrag

Issaquah High School Attend Washington State University majoring in Sport Science and competing for WSU Cross Country and Track teams.

Anna Pronk

Issaquah High School Attend Brigham Young University to study Violin Performance.

Francesca Casseus

Issaquah High School Continue attending Bellevue College and enter into the diagnostic ultrasound technician program. Later enroll in the University of Washington for a higher degree in the medical field.

Daniela Dorta

Issaquah High School Attend Carroll College with a major in Chemistry.

Laurence Donohue

Issaquah High School Attend Washington State University.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

June 2016

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Samantha White

Issaquah High School Attend Penn State to study Film and Media.

Samantha Garrard

Seattle University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Affairs, with Honors Attend Seattle University MBA program beginning Fall 2016

Samantha Harbeck

Issaquah High School Attend Baylor University in Waco, TX starting with a nueroresearch internship this summer.

Kyle Densley

Issaquah High School Attend Bellevue College to obtain a Business degree and then on to getting a real estate license.

Shanna Hauset

Issaquah High School Attend Montana State University to study Music.

Farwa Hassan

Issaquah High School Earn an AA degree from Bellevue College and then transfer to the University of Washington to study in a medical field, most likely Psychology.

Josh Zhanson Janae Jobe

Alejandro Graterol

Skyline High School Attend the University of Arizona.

Skyline High School Attend Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University with a major in Business and a minor in Psychology.

Maricella WhiteheadRendon

s! n o ti a ul t a r ng o C

Vyvian Luu

Bellevue College with an Associate in Arts and Sciences Attend the University of Washington, Division of Design.

Issaquah High School Attend Eastern Washington University.

Issaquah High School Study at the School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University.

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

ZHANSON - LOOKING BACK

Volunteering in the Highlands

by Josh Zhanson, Graduating Issaquah High School, Resident of Central Park Neighborhood Since this is my last article for the wonderful Issaquah Highlands Connections, I thought I’d write it about me for a change. But also about the Highlands. Otherwise, what’s the point?

My family moved to the Issaquah Highlands way back in 2005, and I loved it even then, with all the empty lots where home (or storefront) construction hadn’t yet begun and our beloved Grand Ridge Plaza was very flat and its principal attraction was a large quantity of dirt, rather than the Regal Issaquah Highlands movie theater. Everything just seemed so new and clean. I remember riding my bike through Central Park almost every day after school when I got home, and I had a lot of fun exploring the trails around the neighborhood.

Fast forward to today, and I’m just about to graduate from Issaquah High School. This fall I’ll be attending Carnegie Mellon University to study computer science. For the rest of our readers who remain in our incredible Highlands, I envy you. But Pittsburgh won’t be all bad.

Anyways, because community service will be a graduation requirement at Issaquah High School, I thought I’d share some of my favorite ways to volunteer in the Highlands. First off, Highlands Day. The spirit of community and neighborhood festivity surrounding Highlands Day is just fantastic. We really feel like one big bunch of people living in roughly the same geographic location all coming out to enjoy the awesome summer weather and our nice environment. Being a part of all that and helping make it happen is really a rewarding experience, especially if you’ve got friends to help.

Anchoring the youth here is the Highlands Youth (HY) Board. They provide a good way to be in the loop (even a big part of the loop) on what’s going on in the Highlands. I wasn’t part of it officially, but I did enough volunteering and hanging around Blakely Hall that I got to know the HY members pretty well.

They’re all really good people who want to work to make Issaquah Highlands the best it can be by putting on events and such. They’re cool kids.

Of course, how could I forget writing for our own community magazine, Connections? The editor, Nina Milligan, is always looking for new columnists with fresh ideas, new perspectives, and a love of writing and the Issaquah Highlands. Feel free to get in touch with her anytime. She’s really nice, and also the best, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Just bring your enthusiasm and your ability to meet deadlines.

Josh Zhanson retires from his volunteer role as one of Connections’ resident volunteer columnists with a look back as he looks forward.

ARTS & CULTURE

Talented Teens Among Us

by Kathryn Dean, Kirk Park

Music and theater have been a part of my life since I was very young. I remember sitting with my ear to the speakers in my grandparent’s car and singing along to their 8-track of The Sound of Music. This past month has been full of musical experiences that run the gamut from an amazing middle school production of The Music Man, to Broadway’s Newsies.

he loved singing, and though he landed the lead in the fifth grade musical, Treasure Island, his musicianship has led him toward a solo artist career.

Sam began taking voice lessons in sixth grade and in seventh began working with vocal coach, Elijah Myles, who took him to another level musically. Sam said, “I began to really understand the true emotional value of the music I was performing. I started really focusing on the stories the songs told, which eventually led me to try songwriting. Songwriting became my form of expressing myself, a really therapeutic way to tell my story.”

The pinnacle of Musical theater airs on June 12th: The Tony Awards. As I watch the Tony’s, I often wonder where these singers and actors started. How did they get where they are today?

For two local teens, Indie Cowan and Sam Foster, the musical journey began before kindergarten.

Indie was hooked at age five when she took an Annie class at Village Theatre’s KIDSTAGE. She has since performed in several productions and showcases such as: Peter Pan, Tangled, Hairspray, and Footloose. Indie’s classes and productions with Village Theatre led to starring roles in Middle School productions as Sally in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Rapunzel in Chasing Charming, and The Amazing Mayzie in Seussical. For the last year she has studied in Village Theatre’s Institute program for teens.

Many Highlands kids joined Indie Cowwan on stage.

Most recently, Indie performed in Beauty and the Beast at Village Theatre’s KIDSTAGE. She brought grace and comedy to her character, Madame de la Grande Bouche – also known as “The Wardrobe”. I enjoyed this performance with my daughter, Alaina. The company numbers took our breath away and we were most impressed with Indie dancing and singing while wearing a large costume shaped like a wardrobe.

Indie enjoys acting and musical theater for the satisfaction it brings and the life lessons it teaches.

“Acting is really satisfying because you can get a chance to step outside of your own personality and use someone else’s for a while. You can take big chances and do fun things, and entertain others while you are at it.

We have a saying that we constantly use, ‘Skills for theater, skills for life!’

When acting you also improve people skills and confidence.” Indie Cowan Sam Foster’s musical journey took him in a different direction. He enjoyed classical music from his earliest memories and began piano lessons at age five. In fourth grade he realized how much

Indie Cowan, resident of Central Park neighborhood, as a “wardrobe” in Beauty and the Beast at Village Theatre’s KIDSTAGE.

On May 6th Sam performed at the Moore Theatre with other “exceptional young musicians “. He began the audition process back in January. Each performer gave a solo performance with other members of the cast providing back up music. Sam performed an

original song as well as being a featured soloist in a group number, Higher Ground, by Stevie Wonder.

These spotlighted teens are a shining example of the talented young people we have in our community. The opportunities for growth and development in the areas of music and theater are vast in our area.

It wouldn’t surprise me at all if some day while watching the Tony Awards or the Grammys you hear a name you recognize and realize you saw them in some concert or musical years ago in Issaquah, Washington.

Sam Foster performed at the 15th Annual More Music @ The Moore on May 6th.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

June 2016

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HIGHLANDS YOUTH - THE HY

Meet the NEW Members of the HY

by Christy Garrard, Executive Director of Highlands Council, Dahlia Park resident

In 2013, Highlands Council launched a Youth Board, a selection of Issaquah Highlands middleand high- school students that would be charged with planning events for teens by teens in the community.

During the month of April middle and high school students submitted applications to be considered for the HY. On May 9th the HY Co-presidents (Chloe Kilzi, Andie Kolasinski, and Sean Davidson) and I interviewed 16 awesome students.

The initial group of teens named themselves the HY, short for Highlands Youth. They drafted a mission statement to guide their decisions and participated in leadership assessments to better understand themselves and each other.

To serve on the HY Advisory Board a candidate must be outgoing, well-connected in the community, exhibit age-appropriate maturity, and demonstrate leadership qualities to be developed over the next two-plus-years of service on the HY. These are the new members of the HY Advisory Board:

Sage Cowan

Entering 7th grade this Fall

Quinn Ryan

Entering 6th grade this Fall

Eleni Konomi

Entering 6th grade this Fall

Dil Thiagarajan

10th Grade Issaquah High School

Ethan Hunter

Entering 6th grade this Fall

Sage is an aspiring singer and actress, performing regularly in PCMS productions. She came to her HY interview appointment with a list of ideas to get teens connected in our community. She says she is passionate about “getting to know other kids in the neighborhood.”

Eleni has only lived in Issaquah Highlands for 5 months but she is a real go-getter! She is a top cookie-selling Girl Scout who recently earned her bronze award for spending over 20 hours volunteering in a community garden back in Arkansas. “I am a good leader and I have a lot to offer my community,” says Eleni.

A former Cub Scout, Ethan is looking to use his leadership skills as a member of the HY. Ethan shared, “I like to lead a group through challenges.

I want to help my community and get others involved as well.” Ethan has lived in Issaquah Highlands for 4 years.

This new member of the HY states that he has lived in Issaquah Highlands “his whole life.” Quinn was recently honored as Issaquah Highlands Volunteer of the Month for April in recognition of the successful Minecraft Mania Club he founded and leads twice monthly at Blakely Hall for elementary and middle school students.

Continuing on the HY Advisory Board roster are: Aadit Mehta, Alexandra Morrey, Max Morrey, Andie Kolasinski, Caroline O’Neill, Chloe Kilzi, Elias Kazemi, Jadyn Eigner, Megan Kilzi, Rachel Rosewater, Emily Palm, Deon Lillo, Sean Davidson, and Indie Cowan.

HY Mission Statement:

Established December 16th, 2013

The Mission of the HY Board is to unify Issaquah Highlands youth through meaningful and fun social experiences; creating lasting memories and building pride in our community.

Dil has lived in Issaquah Highlands for 9 years. He is a member of the Issaquah High School cross country and track teams. He has also been employed as a soccer referee for 2 years.

Dil says, “I enjoy helping set up and volunteering at events. I want to be a part of the group that runs these events.”

Sid Thiagarajan

Entering 8th grade this Fall

Sid has actively participated in recent HY events, including helping build one of the eight Little Libraries for our community last January. He has lived in Issaquah Highlands for over nine years.

Sid plays soccer and runs track. Sid told us, “I love our community and I cannot wait to be a part of the HY so I can help plan the future events.”

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SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

Issaquah Highlands Connections

by Tracie Jones, Wisteria Park

Issaquah School District

Issaquah School Foundation

6/8 6/18 6/22

6/1

http://www.issaquah.wednet.edu

School Board Meeting @ 7:00 P.M. Last Day of School School Board Meeting @ 7:00 P.M.

Challenger Elementary http://challengerpta.org 6/3

Popcorn Friday

Clark Elementary http://clarkpta.org

6/1 Kindergarten Concert 6/9 PTSA GM Meeting 6/10 Dads@Recess

JUNE EVENTS

Endeavour Elementary http://endeavourptsa.org 6/3 6/8 6/8 6/10

Popcorn Friday Field Day PTSA GM Meeting 5th Grade Promotion

http://www.isfdn.org

Dining for Kids – Flying Pie Pizzeria

Grand Ridge Elementary http://grandridgeptsa.org 6/1 6/3 6/7 6/8 6/16

Volunteer Appreciation Day Popcorn Friday PTSA GM Meeting 9:30 – 11:00am in P8 Summerfest 5:30 – 7:30pm, Playground All Lost and Found Items Donated

Pacific Cascade Middle School http://pacificcascadeptsa.org 6/2 6/2 6/6 6/7 6/9 6/14

6/15 - 6/16

Band Concert Track Finals at Skyline High School 8th Grade BBQ End of Year Awards Pops Orchestra Concert 8th Grade Promotion Day 8th Grade End of Year Party Early Release Days

Issaquah High School

http://issaquahhighptsa.org

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

Thank You Grand Ridge Families, From the PTSA!!!

It’s at this time of the year, our Grand Ridge PTSA looks back throughout the incredible year at Grand Ridge Elementary. We would like to thank our community, and the amazing people who make our programs and events possible! Thank you to all the individual volunteers who help through their gifts of time, efforts, money, and ideas, which make our school a grand place, for all our kids. Thank You! Over the summer, remember to stay connected, at www.GrandRidgePTSA.org.

Summerfest

With summer fast approaching, Grand Ridge Elementary PTSA hosts their annual end-of-year celebration on June 8th, 5:30 PM. Kids can enjoy a fun-filled, hands-on evening at the playground with activities that get everyone running around, moving, and ready for summer to start! For parents, it’s a great time to talk about vacations, connect with old friends, and say good-bye to the 2015-16 school year. The GRE PTSA looks forward to seeing everyone there!

To volunteer at Summerfest, visit GrandRidgePTSA.org.

PCMS Mathletes Go to State!

Congratulations to the 7th and 8th grade PCMS Math Teams for placing at the Washington State Math Championship. The 7th grade team, including Issaquah Highlands residents Eric Yang and Jeremy Lin, placed 4th in the team competitions.

The 8th grade team, with Highlands residents Claire Kang and Rachel Lee, placed 3rd in the grade level competition!

Individual Honors were awarded to Jeremy Lin for placing 8th, and Eric Yang for placing 7th, in the entire state!

Congratulations to all our outstanding Issaquah Highlands mathletes!!!

6/10 6/10 6/13

Graduation Breakfast and Rehearsal Baccalaureate @ 7:00 P.M. Graduation at Safeco Field @ 8PM

GRE’s So Won State Reflections Nestled in the Issaquah Highlands is a budding artist by the name of Joseph So. Joseph is a Fourth Grader at Grand Ridge Elementary and this year he was the only Issaquah School District student to win the PTSA Reflections Art Competition at the State level. Joseph’s artwork titled, “Dropping Off My Grandkids at Grand Ridge Elementary School in Nebula Space” won for Outstanding Interpretation in the Elementary Visual Arts category. Recently, Joseph was honored at a reception along with other State winners across all categories and age groups.

At this reception, Joseph and his parents, Gene and Hyun, viewed other awardwinning entries. They found the experience humbling and ‘awe inspiring to say the least’. Joseph accepted a medal and certificate for his work and felt ‘really good’ to represent Issaquah at the National level.

Joseph’s masterpiece depicts a scene in Space where people are dropping off their children at Grand Ridge in spaceships that resemble insects. The scene combines Joseph’s favorite subjects: art, science, and insects! Using a mix of watercolors and pastels, it took him about one month to research and create his artwork. Joseph intends to follow his passion by continuing his weekly art lessons and accessing the depths of his imagination.

For Joseph, the sky is definitely not the limit!

Congratulations Joseph on achieving a new feat in Issaquah School District’s history!

Issaquah Highlands Connections

June 2016

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

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IHS National Merit Finalists Issaquah High School seniors, and Issaquah Highlands Residents, Alexander Sun, Bob Weng, and Josh Zhanson were recognized for their academic achievements in the 2015-16 National Merit Scholarship Program. The National Merit Scholarship competition recognizes and honors academically talented students across the United States. Congratulations, Alexander, Bob, and Josh!

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June 2016

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

Sarah Games

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Many Highlands community gardeners and neighbors have noticed the community garden shed is sporting a fabulous new look: barn yard red with bright white trim! The idea for the update wasn’t mine. In fact, it wasn’t anyone’s idea until some hooligan decided to apply their “artistic touch” to several community structures, including our shed.

Most often when I see a problem in the community I assume it’s the community’s problem to fix. But when the shed was defaced I took it personally. As a 5th year gardener and former garden committee member in the IH gardens, I’ve enjoyed years of experimenting and cultivating a sense of “green” pride and ownership. I was angry and frustrated when Sarah cultivates “a sense of green pride” sitting next to her patch at Vista the shed was vandalized, but these feelings Gardens. weren’t without meaning: I was angry because I was invested. I valued the gardens and those feelings moved me to action. I thought, “Give me a can of paint… I can fix this!”

Vandals defaced the community garden shed at Vista Gardens.

And I did.

Although the IHCA and Highlands Council employees are wonderful, highly skilled professionals who keep our community’s infrastructure and grounds attractive and well kept, there are opportunities for residents to contribute in keeping our community a place we’re proud to call home. While none of us are going to get on a cherry picker and string holiday lights on the big tree in Village Green, we can pick up the Caffe Ladro cups littering the path around the Sunset Walk pond. Dog owners can clean up not only their dogs’ poop, but graciously pick up what the neighbor’s dog left (and then be sure to let your neighbor know about it!).

It’s a shame that any of us have to deal with others’ willful irresponsibility or malice, but a swift response -sometimes our own response- swiftly disposes feelings of negativity. In the week it took to paint the shed I had several community members assist me and even more give words of gratitude and encouragement. I can’t think of many feelings better than being appreciated, but even if nobody said anything about the shed, its new, improved look has made for a very enjoyable gardening season.

Sarah Games is a resident of Ashland Park community and a professional pet caregiver in the Highlands. In addition community gardening, Sarah likes to practice yoga and spend time with her husband, Alex, and two sons, Artie and Nicolas.

Sarah’s swift response: Volunteer to paint the shed barn yard red.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

See a Black Hawk Helicopter? It’s Only a Drill!

This is only a drill.

Photo CreditL NW News Network

To better prepare for disasters, the City of Issaquah – along with community partners including the Issaquah Highlands Council – are participating in the regional Cascadia Rising exercise from June 7-10.

Here’s the scenario: A 9.0 magnitude earthquake has hit the west coast, and our community has sustained extensive damage.

As part of this exercise, Issaquah is partnering with the National Guard, which plans to land a Black Hawk helicopter on Central Park Field. Residents may also see uniformed police officers and firefighters onsite during the exercise.

Responding to a significant disaster requires effective coordination of governments at all levels – cities, counties, state agencies, federal officials, the military, tribal nations – as well as non-government organizations and the private sector.

One of the primary goals of this exercise is to train and test this teamwork approach to complex disaster operations. To learn more, go to fema.gov/cascadia-rising-2016.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

ASK KARI

Dear Kari, My teenage daughter and I are fighting about her desire to get her ear cartilage pierced. She is 15 and feels that she can make her own decisions about her appearance, but I do not agree. I feel that she needs to wait until she is 18 and an adult before doing something to her body that she may regret. Her 16th birthday is coming up and she is constantly asking me if I will allow her to pierce her ear as a birthday present. What do you think I should do?

- Fearful Momma Dear Fearful Momma, This is a hard question to answer without having more information about your daughter, and your relationship with each other. Is she a child who frequently asks for things, then changes her mind, or has she only asked for the ear piercing and remained focused on this one request? If she frequently asks for things and moves on, I would recommend that you inform her that she will have to wait until she is 18 to get her cartilage pierced. Her frequent changing requests demonstrates a lack of maturity. If she has been requesting the same ear piercing for the past year and is a responsible young adult (does her homework, chores, is respectful), then I recommend that you allow your daughter to get the piercing done. Include in your conversation with her the expectation that she will properly care for her ear piercing moving forward, demonstrating that she is a responsible person.

- Kari Dear Kari, My sister is 38 years old and lives alone. She rarely socializes with others and mostly talks about her dog. She has zero dating life. I am worried about her and her future. She says that she wants to meet someone and have a family, but she never goes out with friends or even dates. How can I get me sister out of her house and help her fall in love with someone?

- Worried Sis Dear Worried Sis, It sounds like you care for your sister very much and wish her many of life’s good experiences.

Unfortunately, you cannot make your sister’s life for her. She has to want a full life and then open herself up through action to get that big life. I do recommend that you continue to invite her to activities with you to build her social connections with others. I also recommend that you positively encourage her to volunteer, take a class, serve on a committee, anything that gets her involved in additional activities. And then let it be. Your sister has self-determination.

If she truly wants to build out her life to the point of marriage and a family, she will need to be the one who walks out her front door and takes action by cutting through her fear of the unknown. The good stuff in life always involves risk, but frequently offers us the special moments that carry us to a bigger life. I wish her well. Good luck!

- Kari Do you have a question for Kari? Please email her at askkarioneill@gmail.com. All questions will be answered in upcoming columns.

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.

June 2016

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June 2016

IHCA Helps to Maintain our ‘Green’…

Issaquah Highlands Connections

LIVING GREEN

by Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA)

The IHCA certainly does its part to ensure and enhance the ‘Living Green’ philosophy of Issaquah Highlands. You can see this in many areas of our operations.

When it comes to maintaining the landscapes the IHCA groundskeepers and our contractors utilize many methods to help us keep it green: • Perhaps the most visible are the hundreds of goats brought in each July to manage vegetation on steep slopes without the use of herbicides or power equipment; • 40% of our common areas are irrigated from detention pond water, saving money and drinking water thanks to the vision of Port Blakely Communities and the City of Issaquah; • Pesticide use is minimal, relying heavily on beneficial organisms such as ladybugs, predatory nematodes and Bacillus thuringiensis, a naturally occurring bacteria which is lethal to tent caterpillars; • O riginal and new plantings at Issaquah Highlands rely heavily on native species such as Oregon grape, vine maple and Kinnikinnick which require less water and have fewer pest problems relative to imported plants; • O ur planting schemes include consideration for nectar, seeds and fruit for wildlife from wild bumblebees to hummingbirds and songbirds; • I HCA and contractor fuel use is now carbon neutral thanks to carbon offset programs such as Puget Sound Energy’s Carbon Balance;

• 2 02,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity used to power community pathway lights, irrigation pumps and systems was all purchased from renewable sources through Puget Sound Energy’s Green Power program in 2015; • N ew for 2016 is the recycling of most of our plastic nursery pots thanks to a local revegetation nursery. IHCA purchases several thousand plants each year so this diverts many hundreds of pounds of plastic out of the waste stream each year; • M any other aspects of our grounds keeping program contribute to reduced water waste, reduced green waste, and improved water quality through irrigation maintenance, management of fertilizer, mulch, mowing heights and more.

You can see the ‘Green’ carried through in other areas of operations: • T he Community Management team’s vehicle is a hybrid, which not only saves on fuel costs but is much more environmentally friendly to the atmosphere; • W hen purchasing new trucks the landscape crew is switching to the new ‘start-stop’ system vehicles that save fuel;

• W e are in the process of converting all of the community pathways lights to LED fixtures that last for years instead of months. To conserve energy, the lights are on photo cell sensors so they are on only when it’s dark; • T he Board of Directors just adopted rules for the installation of solar panels as the demand for approval of the systems is increasing; • T he maintenance team is switching to water base paint, instead of environmentally unfriendly oil base paint, for all painting projects (i.e. playground equipment, railings, fences, benches, etc.); • W e practice an environmentally responsible method of pet waste disposal with our pet stations located throughout the community. (We just wish everyone would use them instead of walking away from their pet’s waste!!)

Join us in helping our community amplify the ‘Living Green’ commitment!!

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Photo Treasure Hunt Every month we publish a photo of something (or somewhere!) in the Highlands. It is up to you to guess where the photo was taken!

HIGHLANDS FIBER NETWORK

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Bandwidth – Get Connected!

by Frank Pineau, General Manager HFN

Bandwidth. We’ve all heard the term. Do we know what it means? How much do we have? And is more bandwidth better?

Last month’s photo was of Logan Park between 29th Ln NE and 30th Ave NE. It is affectionately known as “Tunnel Tube Park” or “Two Tunnel Park” because of the two concrete climbing tunnels buried in the ground.

Loosely speaking, bandwidth in Internet terms refers to how much data you can upload or download on an Internet connection. Some may say they don’t have much, and would like more, while those of us in Issaquah Highlands (on the HFN network) enjoy very high bandwidth.

What can we do with it?

The most common connection is the one to your computer. Connections can be “hard wired” using a LAN (Local Area Network) cord connected directly to the portal switch through the home wiring; very fast, secure, but limited in location. For most other connections, we use a wireless router, which is plugged into the portal switch. This then becomes a Wi-Fi Hotspot making connected devices portable.

These routers “broadcast” a signal, to which you can connect. It’s referred to as an SSID (Service Set Identifier). These SSID’s may or may not be invisible, should have passwords and can be set to various levels of security. Here at Blakely Hall, we broadcast a free Wi-Fi signal for use by guests. (No password required) However, most of the time, the very nature of Wi-Fi routers reduces the effective speed of connected devices. This also depends on the speed the router itself. The newest routers are faster, and can allow the newest devices to connect at the fastest speeds. Look for something labeled 802.11b/g, 802.11n, or 802.11ac (the newest).

Correct guesses were submitted by: Thanks to everyone who participated!

Laticia Knowles Robin Hodder David Roy Kathryn Dean Catherine Coulter Paul Stewart Jen Dewar Andrea Hutchison Julia Stille

Karen Humphrey Jayashree Narayanan Melinda Berardi Michelle Williamson Chanda Gogna Saikat Sen Kavita Krishna Shelly Hawkins Sarah Venzon

What can we connect?

The most common Wi-Fi connected devices are game consoles (Xbox, WII, PlayStation), laptop computers, tablets (Surface, iPad), smart phones, reading tablets, TV’s and printers. However, as household items become more sophisticated, more and more can be controlled through wi-fi Internet connections. You might consider: smart thermostats (Nest), smart smoke detectors (Nest Connect), baby monitoring and security cameras (d-Link makes some) and smart outlet/light switches. Many of these items can now be controlled through smartphones interfaces and Internet connections.

How much is enough?

HFN customers have plenty of “bandwidth” to run all these devices, plus stream video content, all at the same time. If you are on the 10/10 plan, you could push the limits if you do many activities at the same time, like gaming, streaming video, downloading and uploading files. If so, you can upgrade to the next higher level (100/100), which is very robust. Some of the areas in the Highlands can even subscribe to our fastest offering, a GigE symmetrical connection.

If you experience speeds slower than you like, contact our Customer Care Center at 425-4270999. Our staff can help in identifying reasons for slow speed, whether it is your plan, the network, or in your own equipment.

This month’s photo is below. Can you identify the location of this picture?

Entry Deadline: Friday, June 10th If you think you have the answer, please email it to IHPhotoHunt@gmail.com along with your full name.

Please be specific in your response (just the name of the building, park, street, etc. is not enough). Those with the correct answer will see their name in next month’s Connections, as well as being entered into a drawing for a $25 Caffé Ladro gift certificate. The drawing happens once a year in December.

Everyone who responds with a correct guess will be entered to win. Every correct guess is another entry – so you can enter 12 times a year.

Enjoy, and good luck!

The Photo Treasure hunt is coordinated by volunteer Chelsea Musick of the Central Park neighborhood.

Backflow Test $35 Linda Pfeiffer A Woman’s Touch LLC State Certified #B4287 Insured, Licensed & Bonded

(425) 333-4934 Email: eatlamb@msn.com

Fiber to the home, community owned!

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

INTERIOR DESIGN IN THE HIGHLANDS

Interior Design for Travelers

by Meeta Mehta, Interior Designer, Magnolia Park

My mind is constantly inspired by beautiful surroundings and creative settings. My artistic juices go into overdrive when I am traveling as it really brings my two passions together: creativity and travel.

On a recent trip to the lovely Amalfi Coast in Italy, I was so inspired by the color, architecture and the zest for the outdoor living of Italians, that I decided to use the whole experience as a guide for this month’s column. I love to travel! When I do I see patterns, trends and ideas that my friends and Issaquah Highlands neighbors can leverage to redesign their homes.

This month I encourage you to observe creative designs and settings as you feast your eyes and appetite on sights, vino and mouthwatering treats. What’s the first thing that we all do to plan home design or décor? Isn’t it similar to planning a new destination trip? Research and planning.

When my husband and I begin planning a trip, we start with a large world map and pick a destination. My husband has a ritual of opening a bottle of wine from the region that we have chosen to start the research phase. He consults travel books, online resources, travel guides etc. to plan the itinerary and travel details. Now, if you think about it, his research for travel is no different than what you would do to design your home spaces: identify your requirements and design spaces, research and execute a design plan.

With each passing day on our trip to Amalfi, I was intrigued and influenced by the sights, colors and the architecture.

Here are some pictures that I would like to share with you and how they can play into interior design.

I recommend starting with the design and focal point of specific rooms in mind and bringing a few things from your favorite destinations that fit your budget. For instance, if you start with your living room, the focal point could be a fireplace, coffee table or a rug. For my own living room redesign this summer, I am painting one wall with a blue accent, adding some ceramic art pieces that I bought from Amalfi and finally complementing the setup with floral arrangements. Other options that you can consider for a quick and reasonable redesign are wall papers for an accent wall, choosing a vibrant fabric for an accent chair/ottoman to bring in colors and liven up the room.

The architecture of homes in the highlands reminds me of the romanticism associated with 19th century homes in New York and Chicago. The urban village full of vibrant colors, unique porches and proximity promotes community spirit. Homes dressed up in stone, shingles, stucco, and clapboard offer a perfect canvas for exterior and interior designing and décor. Whether you like the charms of the old world or something more contemporary, there is ample scope for those designs in the diversity of Issaquah Highlands.

The scenic beauty of Amalfi coast has taken my artistic mind to creating design concepts with gorgeous colors, accents with blue, green, peach, mauve, yellow, orange and of course white. The homes we live in are an extension of us and tell a unique story of our families, decoration styles and way of living!

Join us!

Issaquah Highlands Interior Design Club First Thursdays June 2nd, 7:00pm Blakely Hall Contact: MeetaMehta@putali.org

Issaquah Highlands Connections

June 2016

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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS PUBLIC NOTICE NO. 16-002 A home business application has been submitted to the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) Board of Directors from a resident at 1695 24th Ave NE. The business application is for a city licensed day care service. The public comment period will be June 1st, 2016 through June 15th, 2016. Residents may provide their comments on the business application via email to homebusinessapp@ihcommunity.org. This public notice and the application are posted on the Issaquah Highlands website.

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

CULTURE THROUGH CUISINE

Culture Through Cuisine – Iraq

by Kimberly Collette, Central Park

“I always knew how to make cake and tea as a kid. I think that was born into me. But when I got married I called my mom,” says Nada Alwarid. Nada’s mom taught her to cook and one of her favorite Iraqi dishes to serve is Dolman.

Dolman takes some prep work and is a bit labor intensive. Nada suggests starting it the night before. Dolman is an Iraqi favorite. Rice stuffed veggies are layered in a large pot and simmered in its own juices and water.

Nada was born and raised in Iraq. When she was 16 she and her family moved to Canada.

Nada finished high school and University in Vancouver. She later met and married her husband and was recruited by Microsoft and moved to Redmond.

In 2004 Nada and her husband were looking to move. A friend was moving out to a new development that was still in it’s infancy, the Issaquah Highlands. “Issaquah? That’s in the boonies,” Nada remembers thinking. But they drove out and fell in love with the trees and the area and soon were building a home of their own. “We came over every weekend as the house was being built,” she says. “We must have driven the builders crazy.”

Iraqi food is very protein based and is often served with rice. But Dolman is a vegetarian dish. “Mom used to make it with ground beef but discovered it tastes better without it.”

Nada finishes hollowing out the veggies. She’s going to stuff eggplant, zucchini, tomato, shallots, cabbage and grape leaves. Traditionally green peppers are stuffed but Nada uses Jalapenos instead. “It gives the whole pot great flavor.”

Iraqi food uses a lot of spices, but is not very spicy. Cumin, allspice, coriander, tahini, are used often while turmeric and curry are used sparingly. Pomegranate molasses is used and provides a sweet and sour flavor.

Breakfast in Iraq is cheese, eggs, bread with jam or honey and tea. Tea is a very big deal.

Lunch is the main meal of the day and people usually head home for the meal. It is stews with rice and salad or chicken kabobs from the BBQ. The insides of the vegetables for Dolman are not discarded, but rather added to the rice, tomato paste, spices and water. Nada suggests not using basmati rice as it tends to dry out.

The mixture is then stuffed back into the hollowed veggies. Fill the big vegetables first about ⅔ full.

Nada layers the eggplant and zucchini first in the pot. The smaller vegetables go in next and then the leafy stuffed ones last. The pot is filled with lemon juice, oil and water. Nada places a heavy plate on top of the Dolman to keep it all down and it cooks on the stove.

The dish is warm and comforting. The stuffed jalapeno is the most spicy but it lends its flavor to the whole pot. All the prep and work that goes into this traditional Iraqi dish is worth it with each savory bite.

Dolman Recipe Core

Eggplant Zucchini Tomato Shallots Jalapenos

1 3 small 1 2 4

Filling Uncooked Medium of Jasmine Rice Sugar Salt (1/2 goes in filling, 1/2 goes in water) Red Curry Powder Tomato Paste Tomato (mushed) Shredded Carrot Ground Onion Garlic All Other Vegetables Cabbage and Grape Leaves

2 1/2 Cups 1 Tablespoon 2 - 2 1/2 teaspoons 2 Tablespoons 1 Can 1 1/2 1 3-4 Cloves Cores

Directions

Add a little water to the filling to make it easy to spoon and fill the cored veggies. Fill the largest first starting with the eggplant. Fill about ⅔ full to allow for rice growth.

Using boiled cabbage leaves, cut out the thick stem and lay the leaf out flat. Place a little filling in the center, turn in the sides and roll the cabbage closed. Do the same with the grape leaves, cutting out the center stem and rolling the filling up.

Layer the stuffed vegetables in a large pot. Largest goes in first and the stuffed cabbage leaves and grape leaves go on top. Fill the pot with ½ cup lemon juice, ⅓ cup vegetable oil and fill water to equal 2 ½ cup liquid total. Place a plate on top.

Bring to boil for 5-7 minutes. Remove the plate and turn the heat down to medium for for 30 minutes. And finish with on low for 10-15 minutes. Let the juices settle and serve.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

June 2016

DIRECTORY

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

HIGHLANDS COUNCIL MAIN PHONE: 425-507-1107 IssaquahHighlands.com

MAIN PHONE: 425-427-9257 | AFTER HOURS: 425-223-8887

Responsible for:

IssaquahHighlands.com

Governing Body

Community Events Board of Trustees Blakely Hall Community Center hcbot@ihcouncil.org Responsible for: Governing Body

Facility Rentals Larry Norton, President Property Management Board of Directors

Community Garden Patrick Byers, Vice President Enforcement of CCRs, Rules, Regs ihcaboard @ihcommunity.org Facebook Ami Desai-Mehta, Member E-Letter Philip Nored, Secretary

Architectural Review Jim Young, President Connections Newspaper Ray Besharati, Treasurer

Common Area Landscape Dan Vradenburg, Vice President issaquahhighlands.com Jody Turner, Member Funded by: Walt Bailey, Secretary Fred Nystrom, Member David Ngai, Treasurer Annual IHCA Assessments Ellina Charipova, Director Funded by:

Neighborhood Assessments Rob Knight, Director Sponsorships/Grants & Advertising Rossie Cruz, Director Community Enhancement Fees (1/4 of 1% on sale of home) 12¢ per sq. ft. retail/commercial Sarah Hoey, Executive Director $50/door per year for apartments sarah.h@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1120 Erika North, Senior Community Manager erika.n@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1121

Christy Garrard, Executive Director christy.g@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1110

Collene Cordova, Owner Services Coordinator collene.c@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1134 Barbara Uribe, Senior Accountant and Benefits Coordinator Barbara.u@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1123 Joon Chang, Director of Accounting joon.c@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1117 Katherine Olson, Accountant Katherine.o@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119 Russ Ayers, Landscape Manager Russ.a@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1130 Melissa Schneider, Community Manager/Project Manager Melissa.s@ihcommnutiy.org, 425-507-1113 Chelsea Johnson, General Questions Chelsea.J@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1135 Billing Inquiries payments@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119

Nina Milligan, Communications Manager nina.m@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1111 Brianna Eigner, Blakely Hall Marketing Manager & Special Event Consultant brianna.e@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1107 Michele McFarland, Finance Manager & Office Administrator michele.m@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1108 Julie Clegg, Creative Coordinator julie.c@ihcouncil.org Vyvian Luu, Graphic Designer and Communications Assistant vyvian.l@ihcouncil.org

COMMUNITY SERVICES AT BLAKELY HALL

Notary Service by Appointment • Per signature fee applies • Fax Sending & Receiving • Fax sending, local $.50 per page • Fax sending, long distance $1.00 per page • Fax receiving, $.50 per page • Limited B/W Photocopying, $.05 per page • Lost & Found

Frank Pineau General Manager FPineau@HFN.org Support: 425-427-0999 HighlandsFiberNetwork.com

Governing Body

Board of Directors Larry Norton Allen Enebo Tim Underwood Charlie Herb 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

Weekly E-Letter: Sign up at issaquahhighlands.com

RENTAL FACILITIES

Blakely Hall

Award-winning Blakely Hall has a feeling and comfort of a lodge. It is a wonderful place for parties with 70 or more guests, fund raisers, galas, and any type of reception. Blakely Hall can accommodate up to 200 guests. In addition to the atmosphere Blakely Hall will give you, there is a patio with outdoor seating and BBQ grill that is available for rent.

Blakely Hall Meeting Room

The Conference room is perfect for your meeting or seminar. It is private. It can accommodate up to 46 guests. A screen is provided as well as comfortable conference chairs and tables that can be configured to your liking. There is a wash station, and a countertop to place your refreshments.

To inquire about booking facilities at Blakely Hall, please contact Brianna at 425.507.1107 or email brianna.e@ihcouncil.org

Fire Station Meeting Room

The Fire Station 73 meeting room is great for community or group meetings. It comes with tables and chairs. It can accommodate up to 85 guests in a meeting setting or comfortably 30 guests. There are two whiteboards for writing down your ideas and agenda.

There is also a television with a DVD player for your instructional videos. Because this is a city building they do not allow religious, partisan, or for-profit meetings to take place in this facility. To inquire about booking the Fire Station Meeting Room, please contact Fire Station #73 at 425.313.3373.

CONNECTIONS

Connections is published by the Highlands Council. Our mission is to foster the development of a vibrant and caring community committed to service, diversity, and well-being.

Connections is printed and mailed every month to every Issaquah Highlands residence as well as local Issaquah residents and businesses. For article submissions and advertising sales, contact Nina Milligan at nina.m@ihcouncil.org or 425-507-1111 Size Mini (text only): 3” x 3”

$75

Rectangle Vert: 3” x 4.625”

$150

Rectangle Horz: 4.625” x 3”

$150

Square: 4.625” x 4.625”

$195

Quarter Page: 4.625” x 6.25”

$275

Half Page Vert: 4.625” x 13”

$495

Half Page Horz: 9.625” x 6.25”

$495

Full Page: 9.625” x 13”

$950

Discounts available with 3 and 6 month contracts.

We reserve the right to accept or refuse submissions and edit to content and length.

We also reserve the right to refuse advertising that in our opinion does not reflect the standards of the newspaper. Opinions or expressed either by paid advertisement or editorial content do not necessarily reflect the views of Highlands Council or this newspaper.

Ads are due by the first Friday of the month for the following month’s publication.

For best results with newspaper printing: • Please avoid small text in color or reversed out of color.

• Do not use a built black of CMYK combined. Instead, please setup all black as “K” only.

• Convert all RGB files to CMYK before creating PDF. • 85 line screen and 300 dpi for photos.

• All process color ads should be converted to CMYK. • Acceptable art for use by our production department includes TIFF or JPEG files.

• Convert all Photoshop files to JPEG or TIFF before sending.

• DO NOT send Quark, Illustrator, Publisher or other native files.

Content and advertising in Connections does not necessarily reflect the opinions/views of the Highlands Council or staff.

On-line advertising available

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HIGHLANDS FIBER NETWORK

Blakely Hall 2550 NE Park Drive Monday–Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm

1011 NE High Street Suite 210 Monday–Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm

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June 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections