March 2016

CONNECTIONS FR

EE

!

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

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR!

Photo by Julie Clegg / julieclegg.com

March 2016

W H AT ’ S I N S I D E ?

5 Feature: Volunteer Appreciation 7 Volunteers in IH 8 Community Survey Results 9 HY Board Libraries 10 IHCA 14 Art in Blakely Hall 14 Dean Arts and Culture 16 What’s Happening 18 Issaquah City News

18 19 22 22 23 23 24 24 25 26

Emergency Preparedness Volunteers of the Month Living Green Real Estate in IH Ask Kari Resident Orientation Photo Treasure Hunt Highlands Fiber Network Doing Business School Spotlight

29 Life in the USA 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

2

•

March 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

FROM THE EDITOR

Volunteerism

Volunteerism: That’s a big word with many syllables. And it is a big concept.

Vol·un·teer·ism: a noun to describe the use or involvement of volunteer labor, especially in community services. In your Google word definition you will see that the word volunteerism did not come into common use until after 1950 and has been skyrocketing ever since. Why is that?

As Issaquah Highlands was forming, a slogan was coined, “Your Place in the World!” How does a place become “your place”? You can own it, as in a piece of land. Or you can possess it, embrace it and become one with it. This is what the early marketers of Issaquah Highlands were striving for. And perhaps this sense of place is something people since the 1950s have been seeking, and more frequently using volunteerism to get it.

One of the best ways I know to find “your place” is through volunteerism. Thankfully, Issaquah Highlands provides many opportunities. Did you know that in 2015, 175 Highlands residents volunteered in some fashion? 80 Volunteered for Highlands Day. 35 Volunteer for IHCA Boards and Committees. Some were writers for Connections, and countless others volunteered for the city and our schools.

See in these pages a celebration of volunteerism. On the cover is Gary Ashby, our Volunteer of the Year, and his daughter, Caitlin. And there’s more, of course. We try to pack into each issue of Connections a variety of stories and perspectives, reflecting the diverse and varied nature of our community. Learn about delicious food from Argentina. Read about home maintenance and community standards. Get caught up on happenings at our schools. Find out how you can enjoy the arts right here in IH. And discover what’s going on in Grand Ridge Plaza. And more!

I hope you find this issue of Connections inspiring. It may inspire you to thank a neighbor whom you’ve discovered has been a community volunteer. Or this issue might inspire you to volunteer in Issaquah Highlands, and finding “your place in the world”!

Nina Milligan, Crofton Springs 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.

March 2016

•

3

4

•

March 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

March 2016

Volunteer of the Year

•

Gary Ashby Issaquah Highlands honored its volunteers on Friday, February 5th at Blakely Hall with a 50’s era party, complete with cocktails and bingo. At this annual party all of our volunteers, and the families who support them, are catered to with gratitude by the staffs of the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) and Highlands Council. It can be hard for such volunteers to relax and be waited on, but they get into it, eventually.

Halloween in many ways, usually staying from setup through cleanup and taking on any extra responsibilities asked of him. Most recently Gary took on full responsibility of one of the ticket information booths, from setup, working the booth for the full festival and helping with cleanup. Gary has the whole process down and is able to handle any situation that arises.”

This year, our 2015 Volunteers of the Month were reintroduced and thanked. And then we presented the Volunteer of the Year award, a great honor in our community. The community voted in January, choosing one among the month’s volunteer honorees. All Volunteers of the Month received votes, but the one who received the most was: Gary Ashby!

Gary once reflected, waxing romantically about what in reality is really hard work, “At my first Highlands Day, I got to help set up the venue and then help take everything down after it finished. I had a great time.”

Gary is our go-to guy for special events such as Highlands Day and the Halloween Festival. He joins the planning committee from the very earliest meetings and takes it all the way through to taking out the garbage. Highlands Council Finance Manager, Michele McFarland, works most closely with Gary. “Gary has contributed to Highlands Day and

And we have a great time! Gary brings a cheerfulness to everything he does. Michele sums it up, “Gary is a great person and fun to work with. He loves giving back and meeting other people in the Community and he is a great representative of Highlands Council and its mission. He is an inspiration to anyone who is considering volunteering.

He really deserves Volunteer of the Year honors.”

5

6

•

March 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Volunteer Appreciation Party, February 5th, 2016

Thank you Sponsors!

Issaquah Highlands Connections

March 2016

Our Community at Work: The Volunteers

by Christy Garrard, Executive Director, Highlands Council and Dahlia Park Resident I often have the opportunity to share the Urban Village inner workings of Issaquah Highlands.

Recently I was explaining who Highlands Council is and what we do. As I continued, the person’s jaw dropped wider, and wider; “We don’t have any of that in Talus!” she said. True, Talus is also designated an urban village but Issaquah Highland’s differences greatly outnumber the similarities.

Why should you care?

Because you are invested; when you understand the inner workings of this uniquely designed community you better understand how to use it to YOUR advantage. When you are realizing the full value of something that belongs to YOU it builds pride of ownership. You may have moved here because of the proximity to I-90 and the great schools but you got so much more!

In many master planned communities the HOA is offsite, sometimes out of state! In Issaquah Highlands your Community Association is right here. A recent analysis of other large-scaled communities found no similar, well-organized, community building organizations set up like Highlands Council. HFN, offering state of the art, high-speed, fiber-to-the-home connectivity that is community-owned is also unique. All these benefits are not just better than our neighbors across the valley, but across the United States! Issaquah Highlands is a special place.

Most importantly, the four major cogs of this community are all led by YOU, the community volunteer. Each organizational cog has a paid staff, with executive leadership, but all of the cogs are turned by volunteer boards made up of homeowners and Issaquah Highlands business and property owners; YOUR neighbors. Boards and committees protect our property values, while resident club and group leaders enrich our quality of life. Leaders are grown from students or once-a-year event volunteers to more regularly contributing roles and eventually to city committees or commissions and beyond. Help keep the community cogs well-oiled and get involved today!

Highlands Council, IHCA and HFN Volunteer Opportunities How to Inquire or Apply: complete the online form at IssaquahHighlands.com/Connect/Volunteer

Issaquah Highlands Volunteers in 2015

We tried to get everyone on this list. If we missed your name, we are sorry. Please let us know so we can correct the record.

Aadit Mehta Abby Heyrich Adam Brown Adam Gervis Adelle Dinkelman Aimee Holy Alex Garrard Alexandra Morrey Alicia Spinner Aline Bloch Allen Enebo Alyssa Slade Amy Roupe Ananya Sahoo Andi Kolasinski Anita Ayela Ann Taylor Audrey Slade Barbara Uribe Ben McGrann Ben Rush Bertan Aygun Bhavya Chhabra Bob Otis Caroline O’Neill Cathie Coulter Chantal Stevens Charlie Herb Chelsea Musick Chris Hawkins Cindy Klenk Dan Garland

Dan Vradenburg Danielle Jun Danille Graham David Ngai Dawn Noland Deon Lillo Deyin Yu Dianne Brisbine Dil Thiagarajan Domonique Bolar Elias Kazemi Ellina Charipova Emily Palm Eric Ngai Eric Oliner Eric Zimmerman Eugine Shamshurin Fred Nystrom Gary Ashby Geoff Walker Hailain Lian Harsha Bhanshali Henry Hoing Hritik Arasu Indie Cowan Jack Fogelberg Jadyn Eigner James Crosetto Jan Lipetz Jasmine Wee Jason Koo Jason Ku

Jennifer Kodosky Jennifer McNeal Jennifer Molloy Jennifer Regis Bishop Jim Young Jody Turner Johnny Chu Joon Chang Josh Zhanson Judith Baxter Karen Lund Kari O’Neill Karl Leigh Kathrine Hays Kathryn Dean Kathryn Meeker Katie Olson Kimberly Collette Kumar Kannadiapalayam Larrisa Kolasinski Larry Norton Leah Byskal Leela Arasu Lindsey Pinkston Lindsey Walsh Lisa Callan Lisa Lee Lisa Soboslai Lynne Trowern Mark Mullet Marlowe Dayley Marty and Molly Fisher

Marwa Mahmoud Matthew Hendrickse Max Morrey Maxim Porpylev Megana Shivakumar Melissa Schneider Melody Greene Michael Pronk Mike Petty Nanjoo Provine Natalie Fortes Nathan Love Nikki Guggenheimer Nina Harrison Pat Nell Patrick Byers Paul Dean Penny Storie Phil Nored Pierre Bagel Pradeep Sahoo Pranav Sarda Quinn Ryan Rachel Rosewater Ragan Kim Ray Besharati Rob Knight Rob Milligan Robyn Davidson Rossi Cruz Sahar Kazemi Samuel Paulsen

Sarah Games Sarah Lally Brown Sasmita Sahoo Satya Takkallapally Scott Moffat Sean Davidson Shane Gillis Shaneeza Johnson Shubha Tirumale Siva Talla Sophia Sun Srinidhi Naduri Stacey Goodman Steve Balkman Stuart Linscott Susie Marino Sylvia Chinn Tami Curtis Tamra Lee Theora Dalupan Tim Flood Tim Ryan Tim Underwood Toni Conrads Tony Cowan Tracie Jones Walt Bailey Xander Fu Yana Alentyeva Yang He Lee Young Chang

•

7

8

•

March 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

2016 Community Survey Recap

by Christy Garrard, Executive Director, Highlands Council and Dahlia Park Resident In January Highlands Council offered the community a chance to tell us what you think about the communications and social programming currently provided in Issaquah Highlands. Below is a recap of the feedback from the survey and our response to the most common comments.

Which official community communications option do you value the most?

46% said Connections News. Highlands Council manages the official online presence of the community and we feel a monthly printed publication balances out how we provide information to our stakeholders.

Connections News is funded primarily via our advertisers and they pay to ensure you can see their service and product offerings on paper, on a regular basis.

We want Issaquah Highlands to be able to tell our own stories; this is why most of the paper is full of articles written by neighbors for neighbors. We want you to experience community by seeing lots of photos of you and your neighbors, and your pets each month, so we strive to collect lots of photos for everyone to enjoy.

We strive to provide educational information that helps you understand how the community is governed, the benefits of living in IH, and how to embrace and enjoy our global cultural diversity. Connections is NOT breaking news, as we are a monthly publication.

We continue to work on upgrading our layout design and readability in each issue. Many local neighborhoods, including Talus and Sammamish, have shared that they wish they had a community paper like Connections News.

Do you or your family participate in the clubs and groups that meet at Blakely Hall?

Of the 130 people that answered the question, 75% said no. However, we know that Blakely Hall’s programming is incredibly successful by the amount of people using the space for various clubs and groups seven days a week. Those who commented with “no” explained it was mostly due to an already busy schedule or that “they hope to find time to get involved this year.”

46+21+294z 4% IssaquahHighlands.com

29% Facebook

21% E-Letter

46% Connections News

Which regular section of Connections News do you always read?

62% said updates from the IHCA. We hear you and will work to expand this section and provide more information about the rules and regulations of community living, how the IHCA is working to protect our property values, and tips to ensure you do your part to maintain your home and outdoor space.

Which Connections Cover in 2015 did you like the best?

The results were fairly evenly split. We were curious if you preferred people over graphically designed covers.

Most said they “liked them all.”

Do you find the e-letter a helpful weekly resource?

What information would you find helpful to better prepare yourself, family and home in the event of a disaster?

You appreciated last October’s Emergency Preparedness Connections issue. We will revisit the topic this fall. We have added a monthly Emergency Preparedness article to our regular lineup in Connections and will work to address your suggestions for more education and information; this month see page 18. Last month we hosted Map Your Neighborhood seminars, teaching residents how to work as a team to secure their street or block after a disaster.

51+21+11413A 13% Fitness

4% Multicultural

51% Adults Only

75% said yes. And we hear you; keep it short and sweet. And that you like the event reminders, traffic updates, and tips for homeowners.

Sign up at http://www.issaquahhighlands.com/connect/

What type of programming interests you most or would you like to see offered at Blakely Hall in the future?

51% said more for adults only.

And “Ted-Talk-type seminars” was a new idea offered. The request for more concerts, art programming and gardening seminars are already on the calendar! Check out What’s Happening on page 16 and the community calendar on IssaquahHighlands.com.

11% Youth

21% Family Friendly

75+25+A

25% No

Have you attended a Resident Orientation since you have lived here?

63% said no. Join us on March 10th if you have never attended before or if you have questions you would like to ask about IH living. See page 23 for details.

75% Yes

What new information or article type would you like to see added into Connections News in the future?

Suggestions for a “police blotter,” and “classified ads,” do not fit well into a monthly publication; by the time we publish you will have sold that item or the crime story will be old news. Ideas we CAN work on included more information on our local businesses and restaurants, development updates including transportation improvements, gardening, finance management, and more for empty-nesters, seniors and those with disabilities. We are always looking for contributing writers. If you are interested let me know!

Do you use IssaquahHighlands.com as a resource for community living?

Almost a 50-50% split on this question. The community website is built to be a resource for quick reference regarding staff contacts, community events, resources such as trail maps, web cams, and business directory as well as an archive for governing documents, meeting minutes and community history. You can also find inquiry forms regarding volunteerism and leasing a P-patch in our community garden. We update the website regularly to improve its value as a resource for you. We will consider incorporating your ideas in the future such as classified and job opportunities; however social media is probably a more efficient media for these. We no longer keep a babysitter list for safety and liability reasons.

2033+ 47+ Issaquah Highlands Connections

End of August

Mid July

9

HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

2% Thank a Neighbor

Which editorial theme do you value the most?

60% said the Development Update. We hope you enjoyed February’s issue, Still Growing. We will continue to bring you information about future development and encourage YOU to be civically, regardless of whether you support or oppose a project.

0% for ‘Mother’s Day’ and ‘Dads & Grads’

13% Emergency Preparation

1% Back to School

7% Your Community At Work

31% No

When looking for a service provider or vendor, do you refer to the advertisements in Connections News?

53+31+16A

Late June

You told us you like the late August timeframe for the festival and you LOVED the food trucks we brought in last year. Your theme ideas were creative and included music, sports, space, cultural diversity, the outdoors, sustainability, pirates, and an actual “Highlands-Scottish games” theme. All were great and we will announce this year’s date and theme in the April issue of Connections!

•

608+ 7+ 2+ 7+ 1+ 13+ 2+

What Highlands Day Festival themes should be considered for the future?

March 2016

16% Yes

53% said sometimes. Real Estate ads, restaurant ads and coupons, and service providers like back flow testers and dentists were popular with the poll takers.

53% Sometimes

Best Date for Highlands Day

2% Pet Appreciation 7% Highlands Day

8% Year In Review

60% Development Update

Thank you to those who took the time to complete the survey. I am always available for your feedback and easy to reach at Christy.G@IHCouncil.org or 425-507-1110.

See you around the neighborhood!

For more stats and charts see IssaquahHighlands.com/survey-results-2016

HIGHLANDS YOUTH - HY

Issaquah Highlands Welcomes the Little Free Library Program

by Christy Garrard, Executive Director, Highlands Council and Dahlia Park Resident As a fellow neighbor I am thrilled to announce the installation of eight Little Free Library boxes in Issaquah Highlands’ neighborhood parks! The Little Free Library Program (LFLP) is an international movement to promote literacy and the love of reading by building free book exchanges worldwide. The idea is that anyone can take a book from any LFL or add a book to share with others.

On January 25th the HY (Highlands Youth Advisory Board) hosted a LFLP Construction Day at Blakely Hall.

With the help of the IHCA Maintenance Staff, 30 middle and high school resident teens built the eight boxes from kits funded by Highlands Council.

A few rules and reminders of this new community program: • Recognize this is a community effort and everyone should be involved with the upkeep. Report damage to the Highlands Council office at 425-507-1107.

• The books inside the Little Libraries are gifts to the community and are meant to be shared, not kept or taken and sold.

• Leave room in the Little Libraries for books; a smaller thoughtful collection is more valuable to your neighbors than a box packed with yellowing throwaway books. Everybody loves pretty, shiny, well-kept books.

• Respect freedom of expression and diversity; however the Little Libraries are not appropriate for religious or political pamphlets.

Highlands Council has funded this literacy program for the common good. Our goal is to build community, encourage reading for youth, and literacy for everyone. Feel free to donate to your neighborhood Little Library; the giving offers as much satisfaction as the borrowing.

In April Connections we will provide a map of the Little Free Libraries in our parks so you can take the family on a treasure hunt for the perfect book.

We will evaluate the program throughout the year. If the community supports the program and the boxes are protected by residents, and survive our variety of local weather fluctuations, Highlands Council will consider expanding the program to more parks in 2017. Share your questions or comments and photos of your family using the Little Free Libraries with me! Christy.G@IHCouncil.org Happy reading!

10

•

March 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Spring is just around the corner – Is your yard ready?

by Collene Cordova, IHCA Owner Service Coordinator-Compliance

It seems like only yesterday that we were experiencing record high temperatures; lawns were dying and the crane flies were busy destroying the parks and streetscapes. Hopefully this year Mother Nature will be kinder to the Pacific Northwest.

Spring has sprung and it’s time to start thinking Over fertilized lawn on the left vs. a healthy, light meadow green lawn on about yard maintenance the right. and what needs to be done now so that you have a beautiful lawn throughout the summer and avoid those pesky landscape violation notices. Honestly, we do not enjoy sending out violations.

Many of our homes were built years ago. The builders installed plants that have since become overgrown and yards are overcrowded. Often shrubs that were planted in front of the windows have become seriously overgrown and are blocking your view, prohibiting light from coming into your home and also providing a good place for burglars to gain access to your home unnoticed. Per the Community Wide Standards (CWS) trees and large shrubs should be located to avoid blocking views from interior rooms or adjacent properties. It is not necessary to relocate the tree or shrub, simply trim back the shrub so that your home has a neater appearance. Smaller front yards will appear bigger and more proportionate when the shrubs and trees are trimmed to fit the space. Should you feel that you need to remove plants, please contact Erika North at Erika.n@ihcommunity.org and see if ARC (Architectural Review Committee) approval is necessary.

In less than one month your bare patches will have new sprouts and it will be safe to mow.

During the month of April you will see a steady increase in the growth of your lawn and you can begin applying fertilizer in May. Use an organic or slow release fertilizer. The goal would be to achieve a lawn that is the color of light meadow green. A deep blue/green lawn is a sign of an over fertilized lawn. It may be necessary to mow more frequently in spring but that will taper off as summer progresses. Hang in there; this growth will make your lawn lush and able to withstand the summer heat (I’m really hoping for sunny summer but a few days of rain would be okay too).

Typically a lawn only needs one inch of water a week to stay green. If you would like a green lawn, put out a few empty tuna cans which are approximately one inch deep, turn on your sprinkler and time how long it takes to fill the cans. This is how long you would need to water each week. It is not a requirement to maintain a green lawn. You may allow your lawn to go dormant in the summer but make sure that it doesn’t die.

Above are just a few tips to help you maintain your lawn and landscaping. The IHCA will be sponsoring a Landscaping Seminar on Wednesday, March 30, 2016 at Blakely Hall. All are welcome to attend and bring landscaping questions.

Landscape Seminar Wednesday, March 30th, 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.

Due to heavy rains this winter, many lawns have become overrun with moss. It often grows in bare spots where the grass has been damaged, under overhanging tree branches where the grass receives little sunshine, when the lawn is too acidic, or is overly compacted and has poor drainage. The moss will not disappear on its own. March is a great month to apply an organic moss killer. There are many brands but an effective moss killer contains iron and potassium salt. Follow the directions carefully and aerate your lawn to increase drainage.

Contact Collene.c@ihcommunity.org with questions.

Once you have treated the moss, it is now time to reseed your lawn if you have any bare spots.

ARC Process Reminders

After a long, cold winter it’s that time of year when many people start thinking about doing some creative improvement projects around their yards. Remember, whether it’s a large or small landscape renovation, making your deck or patio bigger, changing the color of your home, or just installing a satellite dish, all changes to the exterior of your home or yard need approval from the Architectural Review Committee (ARC) prior to starting the project. The ARC has been working diligently through the years to make the approval process as easy and painless as possible and continue to make improvements to better meet the needs of this vibrant and innovative community.

As the days get warmer and longer, the ARC gets progressively busier with the number of applications to review. During the busiest times they can review more than 30 a month. To expedite approval on several different types of applications, the process has been simplified so the decision is almost immediate. These projects include installation of satellite dishes, air conditioners, fences and small landscaping projects. If you are painting your house and using the same colors there is no need to submit an application, but any color changes do require approval.

Landscaping projects are especially popular during the spring and summer months. To help residents with designing small projects, a section of the ARC Guidelines has been created to offer simple plant layouts and plant selections. There are also sections for preapproved fences styles and colors, and trash can enclosures.

The committee also re-evaluated the fee structure for application approvals and two years ago lowered the basic fee from $35 to $20. Projects requiring outside expert consultations may require higher fees.

Please remember, whether it is a simple satellite dish installation or doing a complete landscape renovation, you must get prior approval from the ARC. All applications and guidelines can be found on the website, IssaquahHighlands.com/learn/ihca-applications-forms.

ARC Tip of the Month:

Did you know… If you are having trouble keeping your lawn looking good due to poor sun exposure or any other issue, you may apply to the ARC to remove the lawn and install low maintenance landscaping such as bushes, dry stream bed, drought tolerant plants, etc. Check out the ARC guidelines for plans and plants suggestions. Then simply complete and submit the ARC application; there is no fee and approval is almost immediate.

From this...

To this...

Issaquah Highlands Use Restrictions & Rules Reminders: Turf Standards: Turf should be maintained in a manner generally uniform throughout the community. Turf must be edged when adjacent to any hard surface and regularly maintained. Turf may not grow over sidewalks. Turf may be allowed to go dormant in summer but if patches of grass die, they must be repaired with either sod or seed. Turf may be replaced with alternative landscaping on approval by ARC.The look should be similar to streetscape lawns generally free of bare patches and weeds.

Grass clippings are permissible to remain after a mow to encourage green lawn maintenance practices. Turf must be kept at or less than a height of 4” inches.

Thank you for doing your part.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

March 2016

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Rites of Spring

by Russ Ayers, IHCA, Landscape Manager April, the first full month of Spring, marks the return of full-blown grounds keeping work across Issaquah Highlands.

Everything under the sun is growing again including a healthy crop of new spring weeds. Crews are onsite each weekday to keep the community looking its best.

Residents are advised to avoid active work zones.

City ordinance and our contracts allow the crews to arrive and power up at 7 am. Everyone tries to be respectful

of sleepy neighborhoods but the truth is these crews are on a tight schedule and our neighborhoods are very densely populated.

In most parts of the community you should only have a landscape crew working nearby for part of one or two days. Private gardeners are not under our management so they may show up anytime, anywhere. They are subject to the same work hour rules and must finish by 5 pm. IHCA-managed crews do not work Saturdays except under rare circumstances.

IHCA’s Dan Adams Gets New Trailer

What’s more fitting in our Living Green community than to have our own handy man be outfitted with a bike trailer?

Dan Adams is well-known around the community as a Mr. Fix-it and for picking up around the common areas.

He’s out there rain or shine, so be careful on those rainy days when he’s cleaning up after us in the streets. Dan is a member of a very extended family who all call Issaquah Highlands home.

by Russ Ayers, IHCA, Landscape Manager

In a departure from the annual routine a much larger than usual portion of our landscape contracts were re-bid last year. Ordinarily about one-third of contracts are bid every year so the change is not too dramatic and the process is more manageable. Circumstances in 2015 compelled the IHCA to re-bid almost 60% of its contracts and re-schedule many of the planned 2015 re-bids. As a result we realized a small savings but a lot of change, too. The overall workload has been nicely redistributed.

Neighborhoods and their new vendors are: Vista Park residential and West Highlands Park (Signature Landscapes); Concord Commons, Villaggio, Crofton at Village Green, and the Pinecrest and Village Green Northern neighborhood common areas (North Park, Magnolia Park, Varenna) awarded to Eastside LandCare, and; Crofton Springs, High Streets Center, Dahlia Park (and Roanoke Woods) are now under the care of Northwest Landscape Services.

With so many new crews working in new neighborhoods we expect them to need some time to develop specific site knowledge and weekly rhythm. All of these vendors have proven themselves here at Issaquah Highlands. For instance, Eastside LandCare has been working successfully for us since 2008.

As Spring unfolds you will see new trucks and crews in these neighborhoods. The IHCA grounds keeping staff keeps to certain IHCA-owned common areas, especially those which are more difficult to contract out traditionally, plus they handle all irrigation and common area plant replacements.

by Sarah Hoey, Executive Director, Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA)

The following are examples of our standing committees and their purpose: Architectural Review Committee (ARC) – perhaps the most active committee – serves to assist owners with their home improvement projects by reviewing their applications before they begin work to ensure the result will ultimately improve the community as well as the home. These projects include everything from landscaping and painting to major exterior modifications.

Finance Committee, like the ARC, meets every month to review the association’s financial health and during budget season they are busy reviewing and approving the IHCA budget as well as supplemental budgets to recommend their adoption by the BOD. Covenant Committee meets only when needed. This committee reviews and discusses appeals from homeowners regarding rules fines. They listen to homeowners who feel they were incorrectly fined and reserve the right to waive the fines when appropriate. Those owners are encouraged to attend and learn how rules and regulations are created and enforced to keep the community running smoothly for everyone.

Committees serve as advisors which report to the Board of Directors on difficult and often complex issues. This helps to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Homeowners are highly encouraged to join a committee when vacancies arise not only to help improve the community but also to network with their neighbors and peers, fostering the community spirit. If being on the Board doesn’t seem like good fit for you, joining a committee is a great way to get involved with the community.

11

Landscape Contractor Realignment for 2016

IHCA: The importance of our Board and Committees It may not be widely known that the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) is run by more than just the Board of Directors (BOD). True, they are the decision makers for the community. But there are committees running in the background that play an equally vital role in keeping this community in tip-top shape.

•

The IHCA thanks these Volunteers who currently serve on the board and its committees: Architecture Revview Committee (ARC) Bertan Aygun Walt Bailey Danielle Graham Yang He Lee Eric Oliner Jennifer Regis Ben Rush Dan Vradenburg Covenant Committee Bob Bailey Theora Dalupan Rob knight Larry Norton Lisa Sobaslai Finance Committee Ellina Charipova Dan Garland Alex Garrard Melody Greene David Ngai Mike Petty Board of Directors Walt Bailey Elline Charipova Rob Knight David Ngai Dan Vradenburg Jim Young

12

•

March 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

March 2016

•

13

14

•

March 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

ART IN BLAKELY HALL Artist Statement: What if corgis had access to stilts, pigs won truffle hunting contests, mermaids freely shared their hearts, deer played on rooftops, and animal picnics were a daily occurrence? Until this world exists, I will paint it. My art weaves connection between color, texture, line, found objects, and story. Paint dances over layers from the past. Buttons, nails, glitter and thread adorn. Vintage words bring conclusion. Reality is unhinged just a little and a new world view emerges that incorporates humor and hope.

Pamela Holderman can be found creating her art in her home studio with a cat curled up on part of her art and an unfinished latte which often mistakenly receives a paint brush tinting it the hue of the day.

Pamela has passion for simple still lives with diverse texture and beauty of nature, and human/ animal figures. She loves texture, color, found objects, humor, and the interaction between them. Buttons, book pages in old fonts, discarded doors and postage stamps are her favorite found objects.

Pamela often starts her art with a vintage door as the substrate and add texture with either joint

compound or layered papers. Then she builds layer upon layer of color, texture and pattern to elevate and bring new life to these discarded objects. Often words from old books are given second life finding their way into the piece to weave an extra bit of humor and conclude the story.

Lately a hint of mischief has taken over; animals and people interact and reality is unhinged just a little. Pamela wants to engage the viewer and take him into a magical world that brings a smile or chuckle. See more information at www.pamelaholderman.com.

Pamela Holderman Solo exhibition “What If…” March 16th – April 20th 2016 Blakely Hall 2550 NE Park Drive, Issaquah Highlands Open Monday - Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm Artists Reception: Thursday, March 17th, 6:00pm – 8:00pm

ARTS & CULTURE

A Walk in the Clouds

by Kathryn Dean, Vista Park

Jerry Kaufman stands on the deck of his Issaquah Highlands home from where he took the photo “Skies of Issaquah Morning”

The Art Institute of Chicago was a favorite destination for my family growing up. As a young girl, I remember putting my face up close to the pointillism painting

by Georges Seurat, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of Grand Jatte, and then slowly backing up until the dots disappeared into recognizable shapes in a colorful outdoor scene. I remember looking at ballerinas by Degas, and being completely mesmerized by Renoir – so much so that as a teenager I bought a print of Two Sisters which hung in my house for years.

But not once as I wandered from room to room did Degas, or Saurat, or Renoir tap me on the shoulder and say, “Do you have any questions about my painting?”

This is what makes the artists’ receptions at Blakely Hall so special.

I recently attended “Call of the Clouds” opening reception at Blakely Hall brought to us by curators Megan Somerville-Loomis and Ted Loomis, artEAST, and Highlands Council.

Paintings, photographs, and other mixed media artwork exploring clouds and weather related themes decorated the walls. Artists and art lovers moved about the crowded room enjoying wine and conversation.

With glass in hand I began to make my way around the room stopping to admire the skill, patience, and inspiration required to create such beauty. I stopped in front of one painting that had blended blues and browns and texture in such a way as to blur the line between the blue sky and the earth below pulling browns and orange up to the sky to create fall trees. As I admired the painting and the way the blended colors created motion and drew you in, I heard a voice behind me, “Hello, do you have any questions? I am the artist of that piece.” Enid Smith Becker explained how she created texture in the piece by incorporating bits of recycled fibers under the paint.

I enjoyed conversations like that several times throughout the night. I finally realized what had been missing on my many visits to art museums: the ability to talk about the creative process with the artist.

I spoke with two artists who are Highlands residents. Jerry Kaufman’s photograph “Skies of Issaquah: Morning” was featured in the show. He told me that this piece was part of a series that was shot off of his deck here in the highlands.

He captured the light and colors illuminating the clouds in a series of morning, afternoon, and evening shots.

Jerry comes from a long line of photographers. “My father “A Romp in the Park”, a watercolor was a photojournalist in the Midwest, his dad was a portrait by artist and Highlands Resident, Jan Lipetz. photographer in New York City. I’ve had a camera in my hand since I was five years old.” But it wasn’t until the last ten years that Jerry decided to start building his portfolio and share his work with the world.

In 2012 he published a book called “Renewal at the Place of Black Tears” and has limited edition photos in galleries and businesses throughout the Seattle area. He most enjoys taking photos or series of photos that tell a story. You can find more of his work at his website: imagesofrenewal.com Jan Lipetz, also a Highlands resident and realtor, had a watercolor featured in the show. Her piece, “A Romp in the Park,” depicts animals, toys, trees, shrubs, water, and clouds all in varying hues of indigo. The different shades of dark blue give the painting a tranquil effect.

This painting also features the encaustic technique – which is adding pigment to hot wax. This mixed medium allows the artist to layer color and images.

Jan grew up enjoying all types of art, but has settled on watercolor as her favorite medium.

“I have played with many mediums but I enjoy the uncertainty of the watercolors. I like the colors and the paper. I have started to add the encaustic or wax. I like incorporating some sort of texture as well.”

You can find more of Jan’s paintings on display at artEAST including a larger indigo watercolor as well as another painting that includes sewing and textures.

The common theme as I spoke with many of the artists was the fun they had in creating each piece. Playing with the colors and textures whether it was on a canvas, looking through a lens, or manipulating fabric was a process that brought joy. Sharing that joy with them at the artists’ receptions was an experience I won’t soon forget.

Call of the Clouds shows at Blakely Hall through March 15th. A solo show by Pamela Holderman follows called, “What if…”.

“Skies of Issaquah Morning” by Jerry Kaufman

Issaquah Highlands Connections

March 2016

•

15

16

•

March 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS

Art in Blakely Hall

Pamela Holderman Solo exhibition “What If…” Showing March 16th – April 20th 2016 Blakely Hall Open Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm Artist Reception: Thursday, March 17th, 6:00pm – 8:00pm Blakely Hall Free and open to the public

Enjoy art by Pamela Holderman, who has passion for simple still lives with diverse texture and beauty of nature, and human/animal figures. She loves texture, color, found objects, humor, and the interaction between them. Buttons, book pages in old fonts, discarded doors and postage stamps are her favorite found objects.

Bear Smart Seminar

Monday, March 14th, 6:30pm- 8:30pm Blakely Hall

Please join Highlands Council in welcoming Western Wildlife Outreach and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for an evening presentation on the growing issue of conflicts between humans and black bears in Eastern King County.

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, March 7th, 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.

Chinese Heritage Club Saturday, March 5th, 7:30pm Blakely Hall

This club promotes and preserves the unique Chinese cultural heritage awareness among the next generation for many local families. We welcome everyone who is interested in a neighborhood celebration for many traditional Chinese/American festivals right at Issaquah Highlands.

The club meets monthly, usually at Blakely Hall. Contact: Hailain 425-633-0242 or lian_lhl@hotmail.com

Cub Scout Issaquah Highlands Pack 680

A year round values-based program for boys grades 1-5.

Scouting is learning by discovery and discovery by doing.

For more information, please contact scoutpack680@gmail.com.

Concert: Synthesia

Family History Night

A live music event produced by The Rivers Edge Church (which meets in Blakely Hall on Sundays), Join us for a night of energizing music from local artists. Lights and Sounds…Fun for the whole family. Pizza, snacks, and drinks will be available for purchase. Admission: $10/pp and $20/family. All tickets and concession proceeds go to fund the Issaquah Highlands Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 26, 2016 in Village Green Park.

Genealogy Made Easy! Contact: Steve Balkman, steve@balkman.com 425-260-4451.

Friday, March 4th, 7:00pm - 9:00pm Blakely Hall

Easter Sunday

Sunday, March 27th, 10:30am – 11:30am Blakely Hall

The Rivers Edge Church invites the community to celebrate the resurrection. www.theriversedge.tv

Egg Hunt for Community

Saturday, March 26th, 10:00am – Noon Village Green Park

The Rivers Edge Church is bringing the FREE Community Egg Hunt back to Issaquah Highlands! Families with children ages 1 through 11 are invited to the Village Green Park across from Blakely Hall to celebrate this spring tradition. Arrive at 10am for photos with the Easter Bunny. 11am start for children ages 0-5 years old; 11:30am for ages 6-11 years old.

Egg Hunt for Teens (Middle & High School)

Tuesday, March 15th, 8:00pm - 9:00pm Blakely Hall - FREE!

Gardening Seminar

Designing Your Own Northwest Paradise Thursday, March 3rd, 7:00pm - 8:30 pm Blakely Hall

With Jessi Bloom, best-selling author, owner and lead designer of NW Bloom EcoLogical Landscapes.

Learn how to look at your garden as an ecosystem and explore the possibilities to make your space more sustainable, how to build healthy soils, good design, as well as proper maintenance strategies will be covered. Free, but registration is required: http:// www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2342174 Next Meeting April 7th Sustainable Veggie Gardening 7:00-8:30pm

India Culture Club

Spring Celebration Sunday, March 20th, 3:00pm - 7:00pm Blakely Hall

Celebrate Spring with the India Culture Club! Indian Fancy Dress competition for 5-12 year olds, face painting, and kite making! Sumptuous food and entertainment. Contact Anita aan1001@gmail.com

Knit for Life®

Friday, March 18th, 7:00pm – 10:00pm Blakely Hall and Village Green

Mondays from 1:00pm to 3:00pm Swedish Medical Center, Main Lobby

3rd Annual Friday Night Flashlight Eggstravaganza for all Middle and High School students, sponsored by the HY (Highlands Youth) Board. There’s fun for everyone: games, prizes, music, ice cream sundae bar, bunny photo booth, etc.

Bring: Student ID required; Something to collect eggs in; Flashlight; $5 Admission Fee.

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

English Class for the Workplace

Landscape Seminar

Wednesdays and Fridays Through March 25th 9:30am – 12:00pm YWCA Family Village

Presented by Hopelink and free to attend, these classes teach English to assist adults in the workplace. Learn how to speak about your skills and experience, how to search for a job, develop a resume, a cover letter, practice interview skills and much more! Register by contacting Marci Williams at 425-250-3007 or marciw@hope-link.org.

Flex Worker Brown Bag

Friday, April 1st, 1:00pm – 2:00 pm Blakely Hall

Formerly the Telecommuter Brown Bag group. The theme for this meeting is Mentoring: What does it mean to you, your company, and your future? Dawn Noland will lead the discussion. You are welcome to join us! The last meeting is April 1st (no fooling). Contact dawn_noland@comcast.net (subject line: Flex Worker Brown Bag) if you have questions or would like to be added to the meeting notes distribution.

Wednesday, March 30th, 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.

Little Mandarin Group

March 14th and 28th, 10:30am - Noon Blakely Hall

Young children are uniquely suited to learning a second language. “Little Mandarin” will give young children the opportunity to learn mandarin through telling stories, singing songs and playing games. Witnessing your children learn another language is exciting! Welcome parents and their kids (newborns to 4 years) to join the group. Dates sometimes change, so email bowbow.gin@outlook.com to get the details.

*All Events are FREE unless otherwise noted.

COMMUNITY MEETINGS IHCA Architectural Review Committee Tuesday, 3/1, 6:00 pm IHCA Office IHCA Finance Committee Tuesday, 3/8, 5:30 pm IHCA Office

Meetings are subject to change.

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

Highlands Fiber Network Advisory Group Monday, 3/9, 5:00pm, Blakely Hall

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

IHCA Board of Directors Wednesday, 3/23, 5:30 pm IHCA Office

School District Town Hall

Wednesday, March 16th, 7:00pm – 8:30pm Blakely Hall Curious about over-crowding and where new schools will be built? Want to learn more about the upcoming School Bond Ballot? Superintendent Ron Thiele will outline what a school bond is, what is in this bond, and most importantly how will the 2016 Bond impact the taxes we already pay.

Join Highlands Council and the Issaquah School District representatives at Blakely Hall and have your questions answered about the $533.5M school bond election in April.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

March 2016

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS Meaningful Movies

Wednesday, March 23rd, 6:30pm - 8:30pm Blakely Hall, FREE Film: Cracking the Codes, The System of Racial Inequity

Free and open to the public. Meaningful Movies brings documentaries and guest speaker-led discussions each month.

This month’s film asks America to talk about the causes and consequences of systemic inequity. Designed for dialogue, the film works to disentangle internal beliefs, attitudes and pre-judgements within, and it builds skills to address the structural drivers of social and economic inequities. See www.

MeaningfulMovies.org for more information.

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) March 7th & 21st, 9:30am - 11:30am Blakely Hall

Sponsored by Timberlake Church PROGRAM COST: $150 for the 2015-16 school year 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, visit www.timberlakechurch.com/mops

Minecraft Mania

Tuesday, March 8th & 22nd, 5:00pm - 6:30pm Blakely Hall Second Date Added!

Poker Night

Thursday, March 31st, 7:00pm Blakely Hall

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.

Purim Celebration

Thursday, March 24th, 6:00pm Blakely Hall

All are welcome to attend the community Purim celebration, presented by the Chabad of the Central Cascades. Purim in the Wild West is the theme, with western buffet dinner, Native American drum circle and Cowboy lasso shows, multimedia Megila reading, Graggers and Hamentashen and more! RSVP ChabadIssaquah.com.

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.

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.

Running Club

New Resident Reception & Orientation

Russian Highlanders

Thursday, March 10th, 7:00pm-8:30pm Blakely Hall

Join your fellow new neighbors for a welcome reception in your honor and a brief presentation regarding the IHCA, Highlands Council and HFN. Refreshments provided.

Please RSVP to Brianna.E@IHCouncil.org so we can plan appropriately. Even if you have lived here for quite some time but have never attended a resident orientation, you are very welcome as well!

Photography Club

Saturday, March 19th, 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

Playgroup

Every Wednesday at 10:00am Newborn to Age 4 Blakely Hall

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

See Facebook for monthly event information

Meet other Russian-speakers in your community for friendship! Join Russian Highlanders Facebook page to see what activities are planned.

Sea Scout Teen/Parent Information Night

Wednesday, March 2nd, 7:00pm-8:30pm Blakely Hall

This youth program combines fun with the adventure of boating and the intrigue of maritime tradition. Sea Scouts is a coed program offered by the Boy Scouts to young adults 14 years old through the age of 21. Sea Scouts love boats and the water, learn sailor’s skills, work together as a team, and they have fun doing it. Come meet the dedicated skippers and the scouts themselves and learn more about this exciting group! Contact Jennifer Molloy at Jennifer@m-powercoaching.com

Toastmasters Club

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

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

Join us to improve your communication skills.

To find out more, visit the club website at toastmastersclubs.org or drop in any Wednesday as a guest.

CALENDAR HOLIDAYS

St. Patrick’s Day Thursday, March 17th Palm Sunday Sunday, March 20th Holi Wednesday, March 23rd

Purim Thursday, March 24th

ArtEast Artists Reception Friday, April 22nd

Easter Sunday, March 27th

Arbor Day Friday, April 29th

SAVE THE DATE

Vegetable Gardening Seminar Thursday, April 7th

Earth Day Friday, April 22nd

•

17

Travel Club Night Let’s see where it takes us!

Wednesday, March 9th, 7:00pm - 9:00pm Blakely Hall

March Topics: Russia and Travel Photography Come and hear personal stories about onion-shaped domes, Kremlins and gingerbread cottages with cherry orchards – The Golden Ring of Russia and learn from a professional photographer how to hone your photographic skills to enable you to capture glorious travel photography. Join like-minded neighbors for a fun evening, the bulk of the evening will be unstructured, get acquainted time to share and learn about travel! Light snacks provided.

Contact IHTravelClub@gmail.com.

Like us on Facebook.com/HighlandsTravelClub/

Wine Club

Friday, March 11th, 7:00pm - 10:00pm Blakely Hall

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

Please RSVP the Tuesday prior to the event.

Yarns & Threads Group Fridays at 9:00am 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

Saturdays at 10:30am Cancelled March 26th 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

Zumba Fitness Class

Tuesdays (7:00pm) & Saturdays (9:00am) Cancelled March 26th

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.

18

•

March 2016

Learn More: Sound Transit 3

Issaquah Highlands Connections

ISSAQUAH CITY NEWS

Sound Transit recently released its detailed studies of candidate projects for a potential ST3 ballot measure.

Tackling Traffic: Second Community Open House

The studies document options for more than doubling the reach of the regional light rail system, realizing the region’s longtime vision of a congestion-free transit spine, and connecting the biggest cities throughout King, Snohomish and Pierce counties.

In August 2015, the Sound Transit Board identified the candidate projects following extensive input through public meetings, an online survey and close work with local governments.

Candidate projects in the East Corridor include: • Building light rail from Kirkland/Totem Lake to Issaquah via Bellevue (includes building more park and ride stalls in Central Issaquah) • Extending East Link light rail to Downtown Redmond • Establishing bus rapid transit along Interstate 405 • Building a new park and ride facility in north Sammamish • Building bus rapid transit from Kirkland to Bellevue using the Eastside Rail Corridor In the coming months, the Sound Transit Board will discuss the potential investments and size of a draft ballot measure, which is then scheduled to be released for public input next spring before voter consideration of a final measure in November 2016.

To learn more, view an interactive map at soundtransit3.org

Cheers! Downtown Wine Walk Series Returns Cheers! You’re invited to the Downtown Issaquah Wine Walk Series.

The fifth annual event returns from 6:00pm-9:00pm on the first Friday of the month until June —March 4, April 1, May 6 and June 3, 2016.

Help Issaquah tackle traffic. If you were unable to attend the meeting we held at Blakely Hall in February, join us during our next community open house!

Mayor Fred Butler recently appointed volunteers to serve on a Traffic Task Force, which is studying and making recommendations on a package of transportation projects that could potentially go to voters in November 2016.

The task force is hosting the second open house from 7:00pm-8:30pm March 10 at City Hall’s Eagle Room, 130 E. Sunset Way, to connect with Issaquah residents about possible improvements, and hear your feedback.

For more information about how Issaquah is tackling traffic, go to issaquahwa.gov/tacklingtraffic.

Enjoy live music, art happenings, snacks and boutique wines at tasting locations along Front Street. organizers reduce waste by bringing your own glass!

The event is BYOG — bring your own glass. Help

Tickets cost $25 in advance or $30 on the day of the event. You must be 21 or older to purchase wine tasting tickets.

Traffic Task Force Thursday, March 10th 7:00pm - 8:30pm City Hall, Eagle Room

To learn more and buy tickets, go to downtownissaquah.com.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Turning off the Gas Source: Puget Sound Energy

Under normal circumstances, there is no reason to shut off your natural gas service.

In the event that you need to turn off your gas service follow these simple steps: Locate your main gas service shutoff valve. It’s usually the first fitting on the natural gas supply pipe coming out of the ground next to the meter.

With a wrench, turn the lever in either direction until it is crosswise to the pipe.

Once the gas is turned off, leave it off. Do not attempt to turn it on yourself.

Call PSE at 1-888-225-5773 and they will turn it back on, check the system and relight your appliances.

*Tip: purchase a special Gas Shut-off wrench and zip-tie it to the gas meter outside your home for quick access in an emergency situation.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

March 2016

VOLUNTEERS OF THE MONTH

•

19

Thuan Stevens & Katie Hays

Thuan Stevens The Toddler Playgroup has always been a favorite for my kids. It’s a highlight because we do more than just hang out. We sing songs, do crafts, have snacks and story time. I lead songs, choosing ones I taught to the children at the homeless shelter in North Bend. People would ask if I majored in music or give private lessons. My reply is always the same: just theater and local performances. In other words, community involvement.

Since I was three years old, my aunt would sign me up for local auditions.

I grew up performing solos at schools, singing at nursing homes, churches, and local theaters. I love meeting the people who make this community the way it is.

Everyone has a talent and together we share our talents to better our community and for our enjoyment. I’m fortunate to have volunteer at Playgroup with Alicia, Arlene, Natalia and Lara in the past, and now with Katie. Katie is so good at setting up and greeting people every Wednesday at 10:00 AM sharp before I show up to do my part at 10:30. Without her and the help of many other moms and dads there, things would not run as smoothly as they have been. While I teach, my two-yearold and nine-week-old are watched over by the parents and guardians there. It’s a beautiful program.

So, what inspires me to continue volunteering my time to the Toddler Playgroup? Connections, a sense of belonging and a place I feel appreciated.

I love the set-up we have and hope everyone gets a chance to come meet and greet with us, or maybe come join our sweet chorus when your heart feels like bursting into songs.

Katie Hays The Issaquah Highlands Playgroup became a regular activity for me and my daughter, Cora, when she was about 11 months old. At the time, she was very cautious and wouldn’t take her first few steps. A day after attending the playgroup, she took the plunge and walked independently. Now she’s two years old and we are completely hooked.

When we started going to playgroup, it was just a fun outing for us. As I watched the leaders, Thuan and Lara, share song and dance with the children, I was inspired by their dedication and energy. There was such a sense of community in this 90 minute session.

When the opportunity to volunteer arose, I was thrilled to take it. It’s funny because I don’t consider myself a volunteer. After all, it doesn’t feel like work and I completely enjoy my time with the children, parents, and caregivers who attend. My daughter certainly loves it - she learns, plays, and socializes with great kids. Now I have a new baby and can’t wait to see him grow up with the playgroup kids as well.

There’s no better way to meet kind individuals with similar interests than spending time, helping out our neighbors. I’d highly recommend jumping in and adding a bit to this unbeatable community. It’s shocking how giving time here and there can make a difference on such a large scale.

20

•

March 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

March 2016

•

21

22

•

March 2016

LIVING GREEN

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Where My Lettuce Comes From

by Sarah Lally Brown, Community Gardener, Resident Two Slides Park Neighborhood

Community Garden Volunteer Committee 2016

I garden for my kid’s entertainment, the look of amazement on their faces when I ‘allow’ them to eat as many cherry tomatoes as they want off of the bush and as many carrots as they want to pull fresh out of the ground. I garden because I love to use fresh shiso leaves as a wrapper for my tuna salad in the summer. These plants grow like wild in our weather and I can’t possibly eat all of them. I grow in a community garden because when I can’t eat all of those shiso leaves I can try to corner every gardener I see in Vista One and try to get them to take a handful.

John Ribary Jonathan Dodds Laura Thomason Matthew Meyer Lisa Austin Pradeep Sahoo Robbie Davis Deborah Crossetto Ben Armlin

February fourth was the Community Garden Annual Meeting at Blakely Hall. I went so that I could see what the plan was for this year’s maintenance, meet the new committee members, and also because I heard there were a lot of new gardeners this year. I garden in Vista One but there are three other locations full of plots and people who I don’t know very well. The Sunset Walk patches are newest….you may have noticed the pretty paver raised beds across from Fire Station 73. So I asked everyone, why do you choose the Community Garden?

Chuck managed to tell me with a straight face that he does it to feed the rabbits. Ben grows cherry tomatoes so that he can eat them while on walks with his daughter. Lisa has been gardening for a couple of years because it helps encourage her kids to actually eat vegetables. Leah has had a plot for four years that started because she wanted to learn how to garden. I think it is safe to say she has succeeded. Matthew explained quite eloquently that he most enjoyed the arc of growth over an entire year. Growing plants in pots robs a gardener of the chance to watch something overwinter because pots don’t retain the same residual warmth as the ground. More than one parent mentioned growing in the garden simply so that their children could see where their food actually comes from.

Thank you for all you do for the Community Garden!

Many reasons came from living in a dense community like the Highlands. There is a lot of shared space in our parks and walking trails, but even the most beautiful condo can still have a living deck that is too small to hold more than a tomato plant or two. The most tranquil view from your apartment or townhome could face Northward, not the best direction for sun exposure.

There are still open patches available for the 2016 growing season. Learn more and apply for yours at www.issaquahhighlands.com/community-garden. Community Garden patches are large enough and get enough unblocked wonderful sun to grow an abundance of crops. They are fenced well against deer and pretty-well against wily rabbits (especially since we decided on Operation Marigold during the meeting, which rabbits seem to dislike). When you are out of town in the heat of summer there is always someone willing to water your tomatoes. And if you have ever wanted to try some shiso, you know where to find it. See you at the garden.

Garden Patches Available!

See: http://www.issaquahhighlands.com/ community-garden/ Contact: Christy.G@IHCouncil.org 425-507-1110

REAL ESTATE IN THE HIGHLANDS

Manchester Court, The Heart of the Highlands

by Aimee Holy, Erik Mehr & Associates and Dahlia Park Resident

Relocating from St. Louis eight years ago, I remember driving up NE Park Drive. It was early December and the Christmas lights were up and a handful of homes were looking festive. As my husband and I drove up the hill, I was excited to see how the neighborhood unfolded. We passed through the stop sign at 25th and Park and I was delighted to find ourselves driving around a circular park lit up with lights and flanked by beautiful row houses. I thought to myself; “This is it! I want to live here!” We had stumbled on Manchester Court, the heart of the Highlands.

Circling the Village Green, the homes of Manchester Court have a Tudor and Colonial feel. Charming front porches and welcoming entry ways lead into well-appointed homes.

Built by DR Horton in 2005 and 2006, the interiors are just as delightful as the exteriors. Beautiful wood moldings accent doors and windows. Hardwood floors grace the main living areas.

Some have baths with whimsical claw foot tubs.

The homes range from about Charming front porches are key features in the homes of Manchester 1,890 – 2,245 square feet Court. incorporating 3 bedrooms and 2 1/2 or 3 bathrooms.

Many have carriage houses above two-car garages that are equipped with a bathroom, making ideal guest quarters.

Blakey Hall, also located in Manchester Court, is community central and home of the Highlands Council.

Highlands Council is the organization that works hard to keep the idea of community alive, promoting stewardship and keeping residents connected. Blakely Hall is a beautiful space to rent for parties and a place for nonprofit clubs to meet such as the Poker Club, Wine Club, Yoga, Knitting and many more.

The Tudor and Colonial style homes of Manchester Court ring Village Green Park.

The residents of Manchester Court are proud of their neighborhood and have lots to say. Larissa K. says “I love living in the heart of the Highlands - pretty much equal distance away from everything! And I especially love living so close to Blakely Hall and Zeeks!”

Long-time resident Lynne T. adds “We’ve lived here nine years since the houses were built.

We love village green because it reminds us of home, back in England, places like Bath or London. The circle is very unique. It’s great to see families at play, the dog people, and having our community events out there, which I love to volunteer at.”

The Manchester Court homes do not come on the market very often, in fact only four have come to market in the past two years with prices ranging from $620K-$650K.

Manchester Court embodies the values of what Issaquah Highlands; a neighborhood that encourages getting to know your neighbors and developing a strong sense of community. Manchester Court is truly an enchanting and lovely part of the Highlands.

Manchester Court is just steps away from amenities such as Zeeks TCBY, Highlands Dentistry, Pure 8 Yoga, IRG Physical Therapy, Alice’s Hair Salon and Highlands Chiropractic.

Aimee Holy has lived and worked in the Issaquah Highlands for the past eight years. Aimee has two sons 7 & 14 and has been married for 22 years.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

ASK KARI

Dear Kari, Help, my daughter’s best friend since first grade is moving from Washington to California soon. My daughter has been moping around the house since she heard the news last month.

They have been best friends for over ten years. How can I help support my daughter and prevent her from falling into a depression?

- Concerned Momma Bear Dear Concerned Momma Bear, It sounds like your daughter is anticipating losing her main support system, which would make anyone sad and maybe slightly depressed. I recommend that you help her plan some special days with her friend prior to her moving and facilitate special memories for everyone.

Also, spend some extra time with your daughter right now and after her friend moves, just hanging out watching movies, eating together, talking with each other, etc. Doing so will help your daughter feel connected to someone close after her friend moves, which is the best prescription to change and transition. And remember, simply that you noticed and are concerned about your daughter’s mood, demonstrates the bond that your already have with her. Good Luck!

- Kari Dear Kari, I am so upset at how people behave in public. I was in the parking lot at the local grocery store last week parking my car, when a woman began yelling at me from her car about “moving too slow”. She then proceeded to park her car and come over to me and began yelling at me again “for being stupid and selfish”. I didn’t know what to do. I wanted to yell back at her, I didn’t, but I wanted to. How should crazy people like this be handled?

- Scared of the Crazies Dear Scared of the Crazies, I am sorry that this happened to you. I bet it was scary to have a stranger feel that they can berate you in public. I know that I would be scared and upset. It sounds like you decided to walk away from the incident and made a good decision. In fact, that was the best decision.

A stranger yelling at you is never a good thing, but responding to them and escalating the incident could make matters even worse. You do not know what they have going on in their mind or if they are using substances. I recommended steering clear of crazy, irrational behavior. I know that your first reaction may be to respond in manner that seems to protect yourself and your character, but I recommend walking away and saving yourself and your day. Engaging with someone who is out to be terrible and upset others is not worth you time.

Shake your head and walk away, knowing that you are making a smart choice to move away from the incident and finish your day in peace vs. confrontation. Doing so actually keeps the power of the incident with you vs. the offending party.

- 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.

March 2016

•

23

24

•

March 2016

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

Last month’s photo was of the pedestrian bridge across Highlands Drive – something most of us pass under every day on the way to I-90, or downtown Issaquah. It connects trails through Discovery Heights apartments to trails in Discovery Heights West, and around Swedish Medical Center campus. It’s also the best way to access the Issaquah-Preston trail. That trail connects us not only to High Point and Preston, but also to the East Lake Sammamish trail.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

HIGHLANDS FIBER NETWORK

Keeping Your Internet Service Running Smoothly!

Technology is great until it isn’t working quite right. Not everyone can troubleshoot like a tech genius, but there are a few basic things that everyone can do. If your efforts aren’t successful, technical support for your equipment or your HFN service is just a phone call away! Technical problems seldom go away by themselves, so seek a solution as soon as a problem is identified. This can save you hours of frustration!

Here are some trouble-shooting tips: • Try re-booting at least twice - Turn off and unplug your equipment, wait 10-30 seconds, then turn it all on again.

Highlands Fiber Network, FTTH, Community• Double-check your settings: Make sure that the Owned computer is not set to Airplane Mode and that the Internet switch is turned on. It’s surprising how often a computer becomes mysteriously set to Airplane Mode or the Internet switch is turned off.

• Try connecting directly to the router, if you are using one. If that works, the fiber network isn’t the problem.

• Slow, choppy or non-existent Internet on HFNVoice - Call HFN Customer Support at 425-4270999. They are here to help you 24/7! Support staff can determine whether it’s a problem with your equipment or with the network. They can’t fix your equipment, but fixing network problems is their specialty!

• Find a tech-savvy friend or relative

Correct guesses were submitted by: Heather Krabbe Lynne Trowern This month’s photo is below. If you think you have the answer, please email it to IHPhotoHunt@gmail.com along with your full name. Please be as specific as possible when emailing your response (just the name of the building, park, street, etc. is not enough). Responses will be accepted until March 8th. Those with the correct answer will see their name published in next month’s issue of Connections, as well as have their name entered into a drawing for a $25 gift certificate to Café Ladro. The drawing will happen 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.

You may also see hints or clues online on our Twitter (@ IssHighlands) or Instagram (issaquahhighlands) accounts, so check there as well.

Enjoy, and good luck!

Entry Deadline: Tuesday, March 8th Photo Treasure Hunt Coordinator: Chelsea Musick, Central Park

• Contact the manufacturer - Look online for FAQs or trouble-shooting instructions or call the manufacturer of the piece of equipment that is giving you trouble. Old or faulty equipment may need to be replaced to get the results that you want.

• Go online for instructions - Instructions for using equipment are on the Internet most of the time. Sometimes the problem is with the user, not the system. Another option is to google your problem and often you will find a solution. HFN’s website at www. highlandsfibernetwork.com has FAQs and instructions for many computer operations.

Proactive use of available tools can greatly reduce the occurrence of technical problems.

Effective protection, proper maintenance and excellent support help minimize problems and optimize your Highland Fiber Network Internet and Voice services. Strong passwords, up-todate Anti-Virus and Anti-Spyware protection, wireless security features, utility tools and manufacturer updates help keep your system working smoothly. Backing up data on a separate drive or online minimizes data loss should you have a system failure.

Of course, contacting HFN Customer Support or checking the web site is not all about problems. In fact, HFN can help you upgrade your service. Have you considered our Quantum Gig? Over 40 households have upgraded to this gigabit service since November and another 60 have requested the service. Call now to find out whether your home qualifies for Quantum Gig service. Customer Support can help with adding service, learning how to use features in your HFNVoice, blocking spam or adding emails. The highly trained HFN Customer Support staff is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to keep you connected. You can call 425-427-0999, email support@hfnservices.com or go online to www. highlandsfibernetwork.com

Issaquah Highlands Connections

March 2016

DOING BUSINESS

•

Welcome Shannon Jallow, New Grand Ridge Plaza GM

Big Fish Grill Gives Big

Issaquah Highlands’ Big Fish Grill donated a portion of proceeds to Seattle Children’s Hospital from their Santa Brunch in December.

On January 13th, Big Fish Grill’s Joseph Orrico presented a $375 check and a truck full of new toys to Seattle Children’s Hospital. The money was raised as a percentage of sales at the Issaquah Highlands’ Big Fish Grill Santa Brunch. Toys were collected from all three Big Fish Grills throughout the month of December.

“We know the toys are very special to the brave kids who are at Children’s and we wanted to make sure their shelves were re-stocked after Christmas,” said Carrie Orrico, Big Fish Grill owner and Issaquah Highlands resident.

Orrico and her family hold a special place for Seattle Children’s Hospital, her daughter Becca, passed away from leukemia at the age of 10 and was treated at the hospital for more than seven years.

Big Fish Grill Issaquah welcomes Executive Chef Tom Rhyneer Big Fish Grill is family owned and operated by Carrie Orrico and her children.

There’s a new chef in town.

Big Fish Grill rung in the New Year welcoming Tom Rhyneer as its new executive chef. A Midwest native turned Seattleite, Tom’s early career experience included sous chef for Chandler’s Crabhouse, opening restaurants along the West Coast and Japan for Schwartz Brothers Restaurants, and later as executive chef of the Everett Golf & Country Club, and corporate executive chef for Lombardi’s Italian.

Tom first made his mark on the Seattle restaurant scene as executive sous chef of the Sorrento Hotel and Hunt Club Restaurant, where he trained with Chef Brian Scheesher. He’s spent the past decade as an executive chef in Florida.

Big Fish Grill welcomes their new executive chef, Tom Rhyneer.

A self-described “total foodie,” Tom brings a touch of Latino and Caribbean flavors – plus New Orleans and Creole recipes – to Big Fish Grill’s Northwest menu. “I attended culinary school in Charleston, South Carolina with its soul food tradition and diversity of seafood from the coastal estuaries,” explains Tom. “I learned to enhance classic dishes with bold, bright flavors – and that’s an aspect of what I’m bringing to Big Fish Grill.”

Tom is also committed to keeping Big Fish Grill favorites on the menu. The kid’s menu will continue– and don’t forget that kids eat free on Mondays.

“Having experienced food culture on both coasts, it’s an honor to partner with the Big Fish team and owner Carrie Orrico,” said Tom. “It’s great to be home. This is a beautiful community and it’s an exciting time for Eastside restaurants. I look forward to connecting with our regulars and newcomers. Don’t hesitate to drop by and say hello.”

We would like to introduce Shannon Jallow as the new General Manager of Grand Ridge Plaza. She works directly for Regency Centers, the owner and developer of Grand Ridge Plaza. Her office is located at 1011 NE High Street, Suite 102 – next to Ben & Jerry’s. With more than 15 years of commercial real estate management experience, Shannon managed the operations and leasing activity for a portfolio of 1.5 million square feet as a Director with West Valley Properties. She established long-term relationships that resulted in a high level of tenant retention and substantial returns on company investments. Prior to her role with West Valley Properties, Shannon was a real estate manager with CBRE where she provided strategic direction for multiple assets.

Shannon was born and raised in the Seattle area, then moved to Arizona in 1997 where she met her husband and started a family. She moved back to the PNW last summer with her husband and two boys and resides right her in Issaquah Highlands.

25

26

•

March 2016

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

Issaquah Highlands Connections

by Tracie Jones, Wisteria Park

Issaquah School District

Issaquah School Foundation

Challenger Elementary

Grand Ridge Elementary

3/1 3/4 3/8 3/25

Clark Elementary

3/2 3/3 3/9 3/11 3/24 3/31

3/11 Dads@Recess 3/11 General Membership PTA Meeting

http://pacificcascadeptsa.org

http://www.issaquah.wednet.edu http://challengerpta.org

Eager Reader Begins Popcorn Friday General Membership PTSA Meeting Science Fair

http://clarkpta.org

MARCH EVENTS

Endeavour Elementary http://endeavourptsa.org 3/1 3/3 3/4 3/14 3/25 3/29

Banking Day Science Fair Popcorn Friday General Membership PTSA Meeting Pizza and Bingo Night-7:00 P.M. General Membership PTSA Meeting- 7:00 P.M.

http://www.isfdn.org

http://grandridgeptsa.org

Kindergarten Registration 2:00-6:00 PM Kindergarten Registration 10:00 AM-3:00 PM Coffee With Christy 9:30 AM, P8 Auction at Meydenbauer Center, Bellevue 5:30 PM General Membership Meeting 7:00 PM, Library Lost and Found items donated

Pacific Cascade Middle School 3/11 3/14 3/15 3/16 3/17 3/18 3/31

End of 2nd Trimester 5th Grade Visit and Parent Night Spring Choir Concert Orchestra Concert Spring Band Concert Early Dismissal, Grading Day PTSA General Membership Meeting

Issaquah High School

http://issaquahhighptsa.org

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

Ann Taylor: Volunteers Supporting Our Schools

Volunteers are at the heart of every successful school. At Grand Ridge Elementary, Ann Taylor truly exemplifies the spirit of our IH community through her volunteerism. She believes involving families within our schools creates a sense of pride and community, benefiting everyone in the process, for years to come. Currently, Ann is the Co-President of the Grand Ridge Elementary PTSA. She’s lived in the Issaquah Highlands for nine years, and busy mom of Ben, 11 years old, who attends PCMS, and Adam, nine years old, at Grand Ridge Elementary.

Ann says: In the beginning, “Before my children were at school, I served on both the Trails Committee and Finance Committee of Issaquah Highlands. I served as Treasurer of the PTSA for two years before my current role as Co-President.” The best part of volunteering, “I love meeting people while volunteering. Last month I was able to reach out to some new moms who had just moved to Issaquah and involve them with our monthly popcorn recess. It turned out to be a beautiful day and the ladies were so glad to be out and meeting people in their new community. Volunteering at events and recess activities are great ways to connect with others in the community.” The easiest way to get involved within our schools, “Sign up on the website (www.grandridgeptsa.org) to be notified about opportunities and check out the volunteer section of the monthly newsletter. The newsletter always has a list of current open roles or shifts at events. Just sign up! No committees required.” Lasting impact, “When I served on the Trails Committee, my family helped plant the trees surrounding the water towers on Harrison Street and build the Grand Ridge Trail connecting South Pond and Grand Ridge Drive. I love that we were able to make that contribution to our community and hope that the work I do today has the same lasting impact.”

SAVE THE DATE! 5th Grade Visit To PCMS

Pacific Cascade Middle School will host a 5th grade student visitation on March 14, 2016, from 9:40 – 11:00AM. The 5th grade visit is designed to welcome them to PCMS, and hand out registration materials. We are looking forward to meeting our future 6th graders!!

Parents of incoming 6th grade students: We invite you to join us March 14th, from 6:30 – 8:00 PM for a Parent Information Night. The Elective Fair will be from 6:30 – 7:00 PM, with the presentation beginning at 7:00PM. We will share information on our overall plan for PCMS 6th graders. There are many opportunities for Pacific Cascade students. We will discuss the Math Pathway, the Science Pathway, Humanities, and elective choices. There will also be information on our Lynx Life program, student expectations, sports and clubs, Impact Club, and much more. It is important to us that all our students have an enriching and successful middle school experience. We hope to see you there!

IHS Performing Arts Department Presents Annie!

Don’t miss the Issaquah High School Performing Arts presentation of Annie, March 23rd -26th, 2016! Leapin’ lizards! The popular comic strip heroine takes center stage in one of the world’s best-loved musicals. Annie is a spunky Depression-era orphan determined to find her parents, who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City orphanage run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan, the funniest villain this side of a Disney cartoon. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan’s evil schemes, befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and finds a new family and home in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy. For ticket information, show times, visit www.connect.issaquah.wednet.edu.

3/8

3/11 3/19

Parent Education Series – Anxiety for Middle and High School Parents 7:00 PM Careers Field Trip Parent Education Series - State of Mind, 12:00 PM

IHS Eagles Varsity Basketball Volunteering Makes a Difference

As King County’s Boys Basketball Coach of the Year, three years straight, Jason Griffith’s Issaquah Eagles have proven victorious on the hardwoods!

However, after the buzzer, these athletes bond through volunteerism. “I view coaching as a great opportunity to be a positive influence on young men by encouraging the development of characteristics that will benefit them for years to come, on and off the court.” Throughout the year, the IHS varsity team works hard to connect academics, sports, and community through countless hours of service. The players mentor and coach several youth camps to inspire the next generation. Additionally, the varsity team donates Saturday afternoons refereeing for the Issaquah Community Center’s youth basketball program. In a reversal, the young men strongly support and cheer for the IHS Special Olympics Basketball Team, with Coach Griffith refereeing. Recently, the team volunteered time assisting the Issaquah Food Bank’s Food Box program. “I want the Issaquah boys program to develop within the community, and start a great tradition for years to come.” As community residents, Jason, his wife Dana, and their four kids, Christian, Breanna, Madeline, and Micah, have called the Issaquah Highlands home for eight years. They plan on continuing these traditions with their family, in the Issaquah Highlands, for many years to come. For more information on the Issaquah Eagles varsity basketball team, www.IssaquahBasketball.com, and Issaquah youth basketball programs and camps, www.IssaquahBasketballCamps.com.

Grand Ridge Elementary Kindergarten Round-Up

The 2016-17 school year is right around the corner! As a result, parents are encouraged to register kindergartners for the upcoming school year, during our Kindergarten Roundup, on March 2nd, from 2:30 -6:00 PM, and March 3rd, from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Registering students early helps Grand Ridge begin organizing staff, resources, and support for all incoming students. Additionally, Kindergarten Round-Up provides parents with the necessary information to prepare for that important first year of school! For questions and registration packets, please email Annette Aratani, GRE Registrar, at ArataniA@issaquah.wednet.edu.

Grand Ridge Elementary “TeamUp” Auction

Grand Ridge Auction will take place March 11th, 2016, at the Meydenbauer Center, in Bellevue, at 5:30 PM. Funds will support Technology, Enrichment, Art, and Math.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

March 2016

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

WE Need YOU! PTSA Volunteer Opportunities at PCMS

Volunteering with the Pacific Cascade Middle School PTSA is a wonderful way to impact the future of our children. Please consider joining the team of volunteers for the 2016-17 school year, who serve in a variety of roles, throughout the year, benefiting our schools and community. It’s a great, easy way to get involved, meet other families, and learn more about PCMS! Positions, committees, and opportunities are available to fit everyone’s schedule and interests. We need you to help make a difference, each and every day! For more information, please contact Jen Olsen at theolsen4@me.com , or visit the PCMS PTSA website at www.PacificCascadePTSA.org/ Page/PTSA/Volunteers.

•

Issaquah Highlands Reflections State Finalists Reflections would like to congratulate seven incredible student artists for their imagination, creativity, and artistic brilliance in continuing onward to the Washington State Reflections Competition!!

Seven students from Grand Ridge Elementary and Pacific Cascade Middle School were selected as finalist from the Issaquah School District competition in visual arts, video production, and literature: Katherine Farr, Zoe Mockford, Anusha Rao, Joseph So, Isobel Grudin, Savannah Lor, and Rashit Khare.

Again, congratulations to all our amazing participants, as we thank you for your remarkable contributions to this year’s Reflections competition!

Issaquah School District Parent Education Series Anxiety — Yours, Mine, and Ours 7:00 - 8:30PM Tuesday, March 8, 2016 – Issaquah High School This discussion details research on teen stress, by author of Wise Minded Parenting, Laura Kastner, PhD. Some stress is good! Challenges energize, focus, and motivate use. Stress management and resilience are key personal strengths that can determine success or failure.

Learn how to help, rather than hinder, your teens’ stress management.

State of Mind Mini-Conferences 12:00 PM- 4:00 PM Saturday, March 19, 2016 – Issaquah High School Saturday, April 2, 2016 – Liberty High School Saturday, April 23, 2016 –Skyline High School

All parents and students are invited to attend one, two or all three State of Mind miniconferences focused on topics related to youth mental health. Each school mini-conference will have a different focus, including how to cope with stress, how to help friends who are struggling with depression, or how to detach from technology. Each mini-conference will also offer a core of basic classes in topics such as the impacts of drugs on the developing brain, healthy relationships, body image, and living with mental illness. Registrations for these conferences, as well as programs with a list of speakers and topics, will be available

by February 15th.

27

28

•

March 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

March 2016

LIFE IN THE U.S.A.

•

29

Holi

by Anita Ayela, The Cottages

It is natural when people arrive in a new country, they focus more on the culture of their old country. They teach their kids the culture and customs. Take for instance, India. For my family, it is always overwhelming to celebrate so many Indian festivals in the US. My kids enjoy all the festivals as much as I did when I was a kid. I feel that it is very important for our kids to know the significance of each of our Indian festivals as much as they know about the American ones. ‘Holi’ is one such festival in which every Indian kid knows about, because of its colorful spectra.

Holi is celebrated in India with much more color than you will ever see in the US.

‘Holi’ is one of the most striking festivals of India, as it is a colorful festivity. It is celebrated at the end of winter, on the last full moon of the lunar month, Phalgun, which usually falls in March. The “color run” that we see in the US is a miniscule of what we do for Holi in India. In most parts of India, Holi is an enthusiastic celebration, irrespective of religion, caste and creed, celebrated with dry colors and water colors. It is the bonding of friends, the bringing together of communities, an event where colors prevail and sweets are distributed in every house. It is celebrated to welcome the spring season and, believe me, the spring colors in the East Coast is not as beautiful as the colorful celebrations in India.

Different stories in different regions of India prevail, explaining the origin of ‘Holi’. One of them is when God Krishna was a boy, he was jealous of the fair skinned Radha, his beloved, and applied color on her face so she doesn’t look fair and beautiful anymore.

In Northern part of India, Holi celebrations start on the night before Holi with a bonfire where people gather, sing and dance. The next morning is a carnival of colors where friends and family color each other with colors. The Holi festival has cultural significance, too. It is a day to end and rid oneself of past mistakes, to end conflicts, and also a day to forgive and forget.

It is unbelievable how amazing it is to color your friends while dancing and jumping blissfully. Amidst the shouts of ‘Happy Holi’, people enjoy the delicious sweets, all the while trying to recognize their family and friends behind the colored faces. This festival is also about promoting the idea of togetherness and the color of everyday life.

Every year in Isckon temple, Sammamish, Holi celebrations takes place. Everyone is given free colors and people apply colors to each other outside the temple while having fun. This year, there are two big events for Holi, one in Redmond and one in Issaquah’s state parks. In the Highlands, the Issaquah Indian Cultural Committee is hosting a ‘Spring Celebration’ in the Blakely Hall, a no-color event, but with colorful food, decorations and colorful dances to enjoy!

Issquah Highlands Indian Cultural Committee Presents: Spring Celebration March 20th, 3-7:00pm Blakely Hall See Page15 Contact: Aani001@gmal.com

30

•

March 2016

CULTURE THROUGH CUISINE

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Culture Through Cuisine – Argentina

by Kimberly Collette, Central Park

Mara Welicki and her husband Leon have lived in the highlands for six years. Mara and Leon married in Argentina and then left to live and work in Spain. In Spain their eldest son Daniel, age ten, was born. Then they spent a year in Vancouver before landing in the Highlands, where their youngest son Eric, age three, was born.

“Leon and I are from Argentina, Daniel is Spanish and Eric is American,” Mara says. When Mara and her family arrived in Vancouver she and Daniel, who was three years old at the time, had to learn English.

She recalls a story from her first week in Vancouver. She went to Costco to pick up some head and shoulders shampoo. But she didn’t know the English word for dandruff. Through charades and a few of the English words a lady in the aisle translated for Mara. “Oh. Dandruff shampoo!” and pointed her in the right direction.

“I will never forget the word dandruff because of that,” says Mara. She has many stories for many English words. She credits these experiences to her learning English.

Empanadas Recipe Ingredients

Lean Ground Beef Onions, Chopped Hard Cooked Eggs, Chopped Salt 12 Frozen Empanada Dough Olives (black or green), Chopped Egg to glaze

1 pound 2 2 To Taste 1 Package 1/4 Cup 1

Instructions 1. In a sauté or pan pour 1/2 inch of oil and add chopped onions. Cook the onions until they begin to turn golden. Remove from heat.

2. Place meat in a dish and add salt to taste, oregano and black pepper. Mix and add meat to the onion mixture.

3. Cook till meat turns brown. Remove from the heat and allow the meat to cool.

4. Split each dough and place a spoonful of the meat mixture on each round. Add some olives and hard-boiled egg. Avoid reaching the edges of the dough with the filling because its oiliness will prevent the sealing.

5. Slightly wet the edge of the dough, fold in two, and stick edges together. The shape should resemble that of the half moon. You should have 2/3 to 1/2 inch flat edge of dough to work with.

6. Seal by twisting edge step by step between thumb and index finger making sure to add pressure before releasing the pinch and moving onto the next curl.

7. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place Emapanadas on a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Glaze with egg for shine and bake until golden about 20 to 30 minutes.

Mara didn’t meet anyone from Argentina in Vancouver. But she made a very good friend with a woman from Korea. “We learned English together.”

Since moving to the Highlands Mara and her family have created a community of friends who are also from Argentina. “They’re like family.” Their children are growing up together. They go to each other’s birthdays and special occasions.

And at these birthday parties empanadas are always served. Empanadas can be filled with cheese and jam, mozzarella, ham and cheese or corn with cream. Today Mara is making traditional ground beef and cooked onions empanadas.

The meat needs to be cooled before you fill the dough. “I always have the meat done by 1 pm. Put it in the fridge and then it’s ready to fill for dinner that night.”

Mara cooks the onions with simple spices of salt, pepper and oregano. “Everyone has a different way to prepare them,” says Mara. The onions turn translucent and fragrant. The meat is cooked until brown. After the meat has cooled Mara dices up a hard-boiled egg and some green stuffed olives to add.

Argentinian food is simple, says Mara. Breakfast is toast with jam or butter and coffee with milk. The kids get Nesquick and cookies. Lunch on the weekends is a BBQ. Dinner is always the heaviest meal and is often seasoned steak with salad.

Mate, a savory herbal tea, is always served in the kitchen while a meal is prepared. It is drunk through a filtered straw that keeps the loose leaves in the cup. Mara has a collection of mate mugs and straws in her kitchen.

After the empanada dough is filled and the edges are pressed and twisted she lays them on a baking sheet and gives them an egg wash and puts them in the oven to cook.

For Argentinian parents to both a Spanish and an American son, empanadas are a delicious and warm way to stay close to the home that is so far away.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

March 2016

DIRECTORY

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

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

MAIN PHONE: 425-427-9257 | AFTER HOURS: 425-223-8882

Responsible for:

IssaquahHighlands.com

Governing Body

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

Facility Rentals Larry Norton, President Property Management Board of Directors

Community Garden Philip Nored, Secretary Enforcement of CCRs, Rules, Regs hcbot@ihcouncil.org Facebook Patrick Byers, Member

Architectural Review Jim Young, President

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

Neighborhood Assessments Rob Knight, Director Funded by: Sponsorships/Grants & Advertising Community Enhancement Fees (1/4 of 1% on sale of home) Sarah Hoey, Executive Director 12¢ per sq. ft. retail/commercial sarah.h@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1120 $50/door per year for apartments Erika North, Senior Community Manager erika.n@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1121 Russ Ayers, Landscape Manager russ.a@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1130 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, Accounting Manager joon.c@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1117 Katherine Olson, Accounts Receivable Specialist Katherine.o@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119 Melissa Schneider, Community Manager/Project Manager Melissa.s@ihcommnutiy.org, 425-507-1113 Chelsea Johnson, Administrative Support Chelsea.J@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1135 Homeowner Account Inquiries payments@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119 Escrow Payoffs | Katherine.o@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119

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

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

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

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

31

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

•

32

•

March 2016

Issaquah Highlands Connections