and beyond...
Give the Gift of an Experience Ideas that don’t gather dust, need batteries or end up in a garage sale.
Perry Stained Glass Studio Friends of Youth Pruning: It’s an Inside Job
Special Event Section:
Educatio EXPL n ORA
by Jeff Skie
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Keynote Speaker: Scott Ok i - 7:00 PM
Page 13
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Jan/Feb 2011
contributing authors
Departments: what’s happening 6
Winter Happenings
shopping 8
Valentine’s Day... Give the Gift of an Experience
home & garden 10
Lighten Up
12
Pruning: It’s an Inside Job
community Page 10
29
Innovation in Issaquah
real estate 30
The Education Effect
pets 32
Thinking About a Puppy This Year
profile 34
Perry Stained Glass Studio
non-profits 36 Page 26
Friends of Youth
finance 38
Saving for Higher Education
upcoming events 40
Richard H. Adler is the founding principal of Adler Giersch ps, and is dedicated to representing those with traumatic brain, spinal, joint, and musculoskeletal injuries. He spearheaded the coalition and drafted the legislation that became the Lystedt Law and is President of the Brain Association of Washington. Denise Steele Darnell grew up in California and was a middle and high school counselor before moving to Washington. She has called Sammamish her home for the past 7 years. She lives with her husband, three children, and two rescued cats. Susan Gierke taught in Bellevue Schools for over thirty years before coming to the Issaquah Schools Foundation, first on their Board and then as Director of the VOICE Mentor Program. Steve Hanson was appointed President of Renton Technical College in January 2010. He previously served as President at Spokane Community College and as Executive Vice President at Edmonds Community College.
Start Off the New Year With These Events
Sections: 13-28 Education Exploration
Page 34
38
Captivating Cuisine
39
MARKETplace
contents
WINE FO O D H O M E GARDE N T RAVE L CO M M U N I T Y 2 - Issaquah, Sammamish and beyond...
Jay Kipp is a Broker with Coldwell Banker Bain who, in partnership with Christine Kipp, specializes in representing quality Issaquah and Sammamish properties. Sally Lancaster is the principal of Sequoia High School and OnlineHS in Everett. She is pursuing her superintendent certification and doctorate degree through WSU with an emphasis on educational leadership and online learning. Jackie Friedman Mighdoll is the founder of Sponge (spongeschool.com), a leader in children’s language education. She has worked internationally and interculturally for two decades, and is the mom of two young world citizens. Mary O’Brien built Arbor Schools to provide local children an opportunity for Montessori elementary education. She now operates both Issaquah Montessori and Arbor, serving children from 15 months to 15 years old. Jeff Skierka is the owner, and designer of Reflections Landscaping located in Sammamish.
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Issaquah & Sammamish Living
and beyond...
Jan/Feb 2011 - Vol. 3 - Issue 1
Publishers
Fred & Mardi Nystrom fredn@isandbeyond.com
Creative Director
Shawn Kellner shawnk@isandbeyond.com
Sales Brian Rooney brianr@isandbeyond.com
East Union Hill Gated Estate - $1,699,000
Pam Thorsen pamt@isandbeyond.com
Photography
Michael Johnson
Editors
Susan Lawrence - Finance Editor Jim Merrill - Home Editor Denise Stringfellow - Pets Editor
Proofing Reader Miriam Bulmer
Timeless Broadhurst Rambler - $1,190,000
Issaquah, Sammamish and beyond... is a publication of Kellstrom Publishing, LLC. Š2010 - All rights reserved. No part of this magazine can be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. If you would like to change the name of the recipient or the address where you are recieveing Issaquah Sammamish magazine, email us the info on your current mailing label and the corrections that you would like made to fredn@isandbeyond.com.
P.O. Box 378, Issaquah 98027 Office: 425.392.0451
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Kellstrom Publishing sets high standards to ensure forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial and economically viable manner. This copy of Issaquah, Sammamish and beyond... was printed by American Web in Denver, Colorado on paper from well-managed forests which meets EPA guidelines that recommend use of recovered fibers for coated papers. Inks used contain a blend of soy base. Our printer meets or exceeds all federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA) standards and is a certified member of both the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI). When you are done with this piece please pass it on to a friend, or recycle it. We can all have a better world if we choose it together.
A note from the publisher
Happy New Year! With the holidays freshly behind us and with renewed appreciation of the importance of family and friends, we all can turn to making 2011 the best year possible. This issue has a heavy focus on the value of education and the variety of options available in our community. Pop out the insert and keep it for future reference. The strength of a community is decided in great part by the quality of the education provided by its public and private schools as well as by those who devote their energies and skills to teaching music, dance, art, and all the other nonacademic programs to our children. Without them, this would be a less colorful and rewarding community. On February 15, join us for the first Education Expo, starting at 3 p.m. at Pickering Barn, to meet more than 35 exhibitors and learn about their programs and services. In addition to the displays, the expo will include six presentations by experts on vital topics that affect children from preschool ages to post high school. The talks start at 4; Scott Oki, the final presenter, will speak at 7:00. This will be an exciting and wellbalanced series of presentations, with the goal of providing attendees with valued information. To register for the Education Expo and be entered in drawings for restaurant gift certificates, register at isandbeyond.com. While registration is not required to attend, the drawing is only for those who preregister. This will be the largest event ever to focus on educational options in the community, so be sure to attend. Check our website for updates on the speakers and the time of their presentation so you don’t miss any valuable information.
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WHAT’S HAPPENING
Online turoring is now available
Winter Happenings Free SAT preparation course for local students Instead of paying for expensive SAT and ACT preparation courses, try the free alternative. The federal government. through the U.S. Army sponsors an online training course. Visit march2success.com to learn about the course and to register. This is not a recruiting tool; in fact, a student has to opt in to receive any contact from the Army. Local graduates on the big screen, little screen, behind the scenes Congratulations to entertaining grads! DreamWorks’ Tim Lamb (Skyline High School, 2002) was art director for Megamind; Abel Charrow (Issaquah High School, 2003) is an 6 - Issaquah, Sammamish and beyond...
NBC Universal executive assistant for the television series Community; Vicki Noon (Liberty High School, 2003) is green with talent as Elphaba in the national touring company of the Broadway musical Wicked; Brian Yorkey (Issaquah High School, 1989) won a Pulitzer Prize for his musical Next to Normal in April; and David Call (Skyline High School, 2000) currently plays Ben on the television series Gossip Girl, and has several movie projects. Online tutoring for middle and high school students Does your student need help when teachers might not be available? Or does your student need some extra academic support in general?
Good news: Online tutoring is now available to middle and high school students. Because of the Issaquah School District’s membership in the Office of the Superintendent of Public Learning, or OSPI, Digital Learning programs, this service is available to all Issaquah secondary students at no cost. The tutoring is accessible in two ways: Students can submit a question and receive written guidance within 24 hours or join a “live” session during a tutor’s scheduled online hours to work directly with the tutor. Need more information? Contact Susan Canaga, online learning coordinator, 837.7087.
Education EXPLORATION FREE education expo Tuesday - 3 to 9 PM
FEB. ��, ���� PICKERING BARN
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12:51:52 PM isandbeyond.com - 10/18/10 Jan/Feb 2011 - 7
SHOPPING
Valentine’s Day... Give The Gift Of An Experience
The gift of chocolate: A Boehm’s chocolate-making class
The gift of flight: Paragliding over Tiger Mountain
Make your own chocolate mold, clusters, soft centers, and rocky road, and even decorate a chocolate bar with piping; you will take home 1 1/2 pounds of chocolate. The class includes a tour of the factory and the chalet where Boehms’ founder, Julius Boehm, lived. Ages 8 years and older. $55 per person. 392.6652. boehmscandies.com.
Take a tandem paragliding flight with the birds off Tiger Mountain and experience the wonder and excitement of free flight in the simplest form. The experience may include music and in-flight photos to document this adventure. 206.387.3477. nwparagliding.com.
8 - Issaquah, Sammamish and beyond...
A
gift is not always something wrapped in a box and tied with a rib-
bon. This Valentine’s Day, give an experience that adds depth to a relationship: the gift of spending and sharing time together.
The gift of creativity: Learn to make a floral arrangement at Countryside Floral Up to six people can take-a fun and fabulous floral design class. Each guest gets to make and keep a $50 seasonal floral arrangement. Wine, champagne, cheese, and crackers are served. 392.0999. countrysidefloral.com.
Presents come and go, but a shared experienced can live on and on in your memory. As the Italian poet Cesare Pavase said, “We do not remember days… we remember moments.”
The gift of giving: Donate to Village Theatre It has been almost 30 years since Village Theatre first raised its curtain in the beloved 1913 theater now known to Village Theatre patrons and the community as First Stage. A $1,000 gift in support of that historic building, allows you to have your valentine’s name engraved on a brass plaque on a custom seat in the newly renovated First Stage. In addition, your sweetheart’s name will be listed in the program for the capital campaign celebration, and he or she will be invited to the exclusive campaign celebration. 392.1942. villagetheatre.org. isandbeyond.com - Jan/Feb 2011 - 9
home & garden
Lighten Up
Add, replace, and reposition lights to brighten your home and your mood.
R
evitalizing the lighting in your home is a good cure for the short, dreary days of Northwest winters. Whether you are remodeling or just making a few changes, good lighting pays big dividends. A room with two or three layers of light will appear larger and provide visual interest. These layers of light consist of general (ambient) light, accent lighting, and task lighting. General lighting allows you to move through a space; accent lighting is usually found at the perimeter
10 - Issaquah, Sammamish and beyond...
by Jim Merrill
of the room and adds dimension and interest; task lights provide focused light to illuminate counters, desks, and tables where bright lighting is needed for specific jobs. In family, dining, and living rooms, and in bedrooms and entries, begin with accent lighting around the perimeter of the room. For example, recessed ceiling lights with wall wash hoods or spotlights can illuminate walls, artwork, and fireplaces. Sconce lights located symmetrically around a room are another
way to accent walls. If rewiring is not part of the plan, small plug-in lamps, uplights, or art lights around the perimeter of a room can provide the same effect. Adding a dimmer switch to ceiling lights or sconce lights is great for a family room and perfect for anywhere you might watch TV. Adding under-cabinet lights to the kitchen provides both accent and task lighting, drawing the eye to the perimeter of the room while creating focused light for specific tasks. Bookshelves and cabinets and furniture provide another opportunity to use this type of lighting. If there is space between upper cabinets and the kitchen ceiling, installing singletube florescent light fixtures on top of the cabinets will add a sense of height to the ceiling. (This same technique can also be used above furniture pieces such as bookshelves.) Pendant lamps can be suspended above a kitchen island for added task lighting. To effectively light a vanity mirror, position fixtures above and on either side of the mirror. Combining sconce fixtures at each side of a mirror with a fixture above the mirror will even out light on the face. Select fixtures with a translucent lens; a clear lens will cause glare, and a solid hood may not provide enough light. To further reduce shadows, florescent fixtures are a good choice. Powder rooms have a tendency to be overly bright. To avoid this, convert from ceiling fixtures or a light bar over the mirror to softer sconce lighting on either side of the mirror. Changing the light in your everyday spaces will have a dramatic effect on the feel of your home. Lightening your mood can be as simple as adding lamps and up-lights or changing bulb types, or as complicated as adding new wiring. Either way, you will be happy to have quality light in your home this winter.
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home & garden
Pruning: It’s an Inside Job Prune like a pro and your trees will love you for it.
by Jeff Skierka
A
s I drive through neighborhoods, I am constantly amazed at the horrific pruning I see. While some plants are meant to form a hedge and should be sheared, most plants should not be. It pains me to see beautiful Japanese maples, flowering and fruit-bearing trees, and others lose their character and beauty by being sheared. Properly trained pruners know that, to bring out the natural beauty of a plant, it is important to always start “inside” the plant and prune toward the outside. Always use the following checklist, especially when pruning deciduous trees. • Remove all dead branches. • Always remove “suckers,” branches that often grow straight up from the base of the plant; if left unpruned they can overtake the main tree. • Remove crossing branches. • Remove branches growing toward the center of the tree. • Make sure all pruning cuts are clean, diagonal, and cut to the nearest branch; never leave stubs. A correctly pruned plant will maintain its beauty and character throughout the landscape seasons. Upon completion of pruning, you should be able to see though the plant. This will allow for a healthier tree or bush that can now “breathe.” The optimum time to prune is after the temperatures have dropped and the leaves have fallen. The plants are now at a dormant stage and will not be stressed or bleed sap from pruning. Properly pruned plants will be healthier and add value to the landscape for years and years to come. 12 - Issaquah, Sammamish and beyond...
The right way to prune
The wrong way to prune
Education E X P LO R AT I O N Keynote Speaker: Scott Oki - 7:00 PM
Scott Oki is the Founder and Chairman of Oki Developments, Inc. and is a serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, philanthropist, author and community activist.
Presentations on a variety of education topics will be made starting at 3pm and ending at 9pm.
REGISTER AND WIN!
Visit isandbeyond.com/educationexploration and pre-register for this Free Event and you will be entered in a drawing for one of three $50 Gift Certificates to SIP Wine Bar and Restaurant.
Co-sponsored by:
FREE education expo Tuesday - 3 to 9 PM
Feb. 15, 2011
Pickering Barn
Articles:
OnLine Learning - page 14 Preschools - page 16
&
and beyond...
Zackery Lystedt Law - page 18 Montessori Education
- page 20
Early Language Education - page 22
VOICE Mentoring - page 24 Post-High School Career Options - page 26
isandbeyond.com - Jan/Feb 2011 - 13
Online Learning Is it right for you?
I
t’s hard to miss the many advertisements attracting families and students to the opportunities of online schools. The appeal of online learning is obvious. Students can take a class to free up their schedule so they have room for an elective, learning is individualized, students can set their own pace, and they can learn anytime from anywhere in the world. In addition, new technologies appeal to students of any age and promise engaging experiences that m a k e learning fun and interactive. It’s little wonder, then, that over the past five years Washington state has experienced an explosive growth of online learning. During the 2008–2009 school year, a state Department of Education study found that more than 15,800 students took nearly 51,000 courses. These courses may provide a viable learning alternative, but the important question to consider is: How do you know if online learning is right for your child? You will want to consider the following issues when weighing important educational options for your child. Teacher-to-student ratio: Personal contact and a strong relationship with the teacher are consistently identified as key factors in student success. Knowing how many students each teacher is ex-
14 - Education Exploration
by Sally Lancaster
pected to work with may help you gauge the level of attention a teacher can give your child. In a typical high school there is approximately one teacher for every 30 students per class. You should look for this ratio or one more favorable, for your student in an online learning environment. Technology may help teachers be more efficient in managing the learning, but teacher-student interaction is still a critical piece to ensure the student’s success. Testing requirements: Make sure the online program has easy options for meeting statemandated testing r e quirements. Many programs are connected to districts in remote areas of the state. It is important to know where your child will be expected to take the required state tests, such as the high school proficiency exam, and how the program will support them. Success rate: Each program defines success differently. In the 2008–2009 study mentioned earlier, more than 8,000 students failed to complete the online course(s) they were enrolled in. Another 16,000 students received a failing grade. In addition, only about one-third of the students who were enrolled in an online program in 2007–2009 stayed with the same program the following year. It is important to ask about completion, success, and retention rates to understand
the comprehensive view of any online program you are considering. Technological advances are changing the way people think about learning, while expanding the opportunities available to benefit children and families alike. These advances need to apply to the world of learning in ways that improve academic success for each and every child. For more information about online learning, please come to the Education Expo February 15th at Pickering Barn.
Sally Lancaster will be a featured speaker at the Education Expo on February 15 at Pickering Barn, where she will elaborate on online educational options.
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Inspiring Knowledge and Faith Preschool - Grade 8
IBIT
Institute for Business and Information Technology
Certificate and Degree Programs St. Joseph School Issaquah ď – Snoqualmie For informational meeting and tour dates visit us online
www.sjsissaquah.org (425) 313-9129 Serving Issaquah, the Sammamish Plateau and the Snoqualmie Valley
Accounting Paraprofessional s Business Management Business Sustainable Practices s Business Technology Systems Digital Media Arts s Information Systems s Marketing Management Networking Services & Computing Systems
EXPLORE YOUR FUTURE IBIT@bellevuecollege.edu (425) 564-2311 Bellevue College reaffirms its policy of equal opportunity regardless of race or ethnicity, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation including gender identity or expression, age, marital or family status, disability, or status as a disabled veteran or Vietnam era veteran. Please visit www.bellevuecollege.edu/equal.asp.
isandbeyond.com - Education Exploration - 15
Preschools: Are they an important option for your child?
Waiting patiently in line, being a supportive friend, and following directions. Great skills for everyone to have, right? But they are also perfect examples of what kids learn in preschool. by Denise Steele Darnell
I
n these economically uncertain times, parents naturally question if a preschool environment is beneficial for their 3-or 4-year-old. Helen Glenn, co-owner of Sammamish Learning Center, comments that although parents and other family members are by far the most important factors in terms of teaching and nurturing, a preschool can offer a new social experience. It is a great chance for children to be in a social group other than their family, and can give them an advantage when they go to kindergarten.
16 - Education Exploration
As children learn how to share, eat snacks together, and be in a classroom with others, they are learning important social skills. Sharon Romppanen is a parent educator at Bellevue College’s cooperative preschools in Issaquah and Sammamish. In working with children, she finds the social-emotional support that preschool provides can be instrumental in establishing lifelong social skills. She notes they start to get what “school” looks like and words and phrases such as “circle time,” “line leader,” and “cubbies” become common vocabulary.
Bonnie Steussy, the founding director of The Children’s Garden School, also emphasizes the importance of preschool for communication skills. Preschools strive to teach children how to let their needs and wants be known. They emphasize making eye contact and learning how to ask for something, whether from a teacher or another child. In addition, Steussy notes that preschool is a great window of opportunity to teach kids how to work with others and create a love of learning. Romppanen explains that every child faces the difficult developmental milestone of separating from their parents. Preschool helps support 3- and 4-year-olds as they learn to feel safe with a teacher and in a school environment. School can benefit moms and dads too. Depending on the preschool, parents can enjoy education classes, conferences, volunteering in the classroom, and having camaraderie with other families. Ironically, the prevalence of technology for kids plays a role in the importance of preschool. At preschool, children are unplugged from all the game and movie time. Glenn says children are spending more time with technology, but spending less time learning social cues. They are playing with a screen more than with
each other. At preschool they learn what it means to get along with others. This can be as simple as asking another child to pass the water pitcher at snack time or taking turns with a shovel in the sandbox. Parents certainly contribute to teaching important social skills, but it is hard to duplicate a preschool environment. Most kindergarten teachers are able to tell which students have attended a preschool. Because a kindergarten day consists of more academics than ever before, teachers have less time to spend on honing kids’ social skills. Those students who are able to work well with their classmates, listen and respond to the teacher, follow directions, and make friends are further along at being successful in a kindergarten classroom.
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isandbeyond.com - Education Exploration - 17
The new Zackery Lystedt Law A common sense approach to preventing brain injuries to youth athletes.
G
overnor Christine Gregoire signed the nation’s toughest and most enlightened returnto-play law on May 14, 2009, requiring medical clearance of youth athletes suspected of sustaining a concussion, before sending them back to the game, practice, or training. The new law, known as the Zackery Lystedt Law, prohibits youth athletes suspected of sustaining a concussion
18 - Education Exploration
by Richard H. Adler
from returning to play without a licensed health-care provider’s approval. The new law is the most comprehensive return-toplay law in the United States for athletes under 18. This common sense law makes youth sports safer and helps avoid preventable brain injuries. I was the attorney who represented Zackery Lystedt, now a 17-year-old Maple Valley boy, who suffered a life-threatening brain injury
during a football game on October 12, 2006. School coaches returned him to the field after he sustained a concussion, without first obtaining a complete evaluation by a licensed health-care professional trained in the evaluation and management of concussions. The young football star underwent emergency brain surgery at Harborview Medical Center after he collapsed on the field. He remains dependent on a wheelchair and requires 24/7 supervision for his needs, but continues to improve in the areas of speech, memory, and mobility. Zackery’s injuries were not unusual. More than 3.5 million sports-related concussions occur each year in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This legislation provides the protection Zackery should have received. Wellestablished return-to-play rules following a concussion must now be communicated by school officials to coaches, student athletes, and parents.
Key provisions of the new law require: • Youth athletes who are suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury to be removed from play. When in doubt, sit them out. • School districts to work with the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association to develop information and policies on educating coaches, youth athletes, and parents about the nature and risk of concussion, including the dangers of returning to practice or competition after a concussion or head injury. • All youth athletes and their parents/guardians to sign an information sheet about the signs and symptoms of concussion and head injury prior to the youth athlete initiating practice at the start of each season. • Youth athletes who have been removed from play to receive written medical clearance from a licensed health-care provider trained in the evaluation and management of concussion prior to returning to play. • Private, nonprofit youth sports associations using publicly owned playfields to comply with this law. As a direct result of the Lystedt Law, Harborview Medical Center and Seattle Children’s launched the Seattle Sports Concussion Program to evaluate, treat, and provide medical clearance for athletes to return to sports following a concussion. And momentum to extend Washington’s Lystedt Law to all other states is on the fast track, as it has been adopted in other states and approval is pending in many more. The National Football League recently banned helmet-to-helmet hits for all its players, sending a clear message to youth sports. The NFL also recently announced its support to have Washington’s Lystedt Law adopted in all states within the next one or two years.
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Montessori Education What are the differences with this approach to educating children? “Good morning, Lukas, it’s great to see you.” “Mr. Sean, I tied my own shoes this morning.” “Way to go—your practice has certainly paid off. What do you want to tackle next?” “Today I am going to work with the golden beads.”
T
his is typical of the personal greeting each child receives upon entering a Montessori classroom. Respect for the child, and an awareness of their emotional readi20 - Education Exploration
by Mary O’Brien
ness for learning, is a primary role of the teacher; the core of the program is focusing on the individual child’s needs. Following this greeting, Lukas enters a peaceful environment, where the teacher has researched, studied, and strategically prepared and placed materials relating to practical life, art, use of the senses, math, language, science, and geography. Within this structure, Lukas constructively chooses what he will do. He works alone, or with a friend, until he exhausts his interest and returns his work neatly to the shelf, ready for another child. Now he is ready to move on. He may be
invited by the teacher to receive a lesson, approach the teacher requesting a lesson, join a friend for a snack, or simply move on to other work. He feels safe; he is growing within a thoughtfully arranged environment engineered specifically for his developmental needs. He is making his own choices, he is able to focus and concentrate, and he is developing greater powers of discrimination, observation, awareness, control, coordination, and judgment. He is free to collaborate with friends, and he is experiencing what current neurological and cognitive sciences conclude are best educational practices. He is a Montessori student. The greater Issaquah community has approximately a dozen schools using the Montessori approach. Lukas’s experience is taking place in a large, open room with low shelves and tables tastefully placed throughout. He is one of 20 children, between the ages of 3 and 6, each intent upon their own work. They are practicing buttoning, sorting, learning letter sounds or basic arithmetic,
writing, drawing, painting, learning geometric shapes or experiencing scientific processes, or exploring a globe. Some are sitting at tables, some on the floor; mostly the classroom is quiet, with just a hum of concentration punctuated by periodic exclamations of success. The teacher is nearly invisible, moving quietly around the room, supervising where necessary, appearing beside those in need, and remaining nonintrusive to those who are engaged. This description of a Montessori classroom dates back to a 1909 description by Maria Montessori herself, and is equally true today. The distinct advantage Montessori education gives students is self-esteem, confidence, and independence beyond their years. The students are strongly self-motivated, with a keen interest in learning and awareness of the value of a good education. This is most obvious in their unique ability to share with others their knowledge, tools, and skills.
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Early Language Education In the first four years of life, a child’s brain by Jackie Friedman Mighdoll is focused on language acquisition.
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wo-and-a-half year-old Mateo is already on his way to being a world citizen. He and his parents have been taking classes in Mandarin Chinese since he was just a few months old, learning together. From the outside and to Mateo, having fun is what it’s all about. He sings and dances and hugs the furry white cat that he asks for in Mandarin. But while he’s playing, a lot is going on in his brain. In the first four years of life, a child’s brain is focused on language acquisition— first on sounds, then grammar, and then vocabulary. The brain forms neural pathways in response to the language
surrounding it. Amazing as it sounds, the brain wires itself in a particular way because of the language around the child, and even relatively small amounts of exposure to a second language before the age of one make a difference in the development of those neural pathways. How do these differently wired neural pathways affect children? Children who are exposed to language early recognize and produce sounds like a native speaker. As children get older, however, this gets much more difficult to do. In addition, children who know more than one language have shown they understand that things can have more
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than one name—that language is, in effect, symbolic. This understanding leads to strong verbal and analytical skills. The cognitive benefits show up in academic tests. Children who have studied a foreign language score higher on testing in math and social studies, and even on their SATs. There are tremendous advantages to learning a language at any age. (Recent research shows that speaking two languages as an adult may even help delay dementia!) Starting young can also help with reaching competency. Researchers at the University of Oregon discovered that students who start learning a language in elementary school are 70 percent more likely to reach competency than those who start in high school. Excellent pronunciation and success in academics are great benefits, but ultimately there’s an even bigger benefit: the effect that knowing a second language has on a child’s approach to interacting with people from around the world. Children who grow up embracing other languages and cultures aren’t intimidated by someone who speaks or acts differently. They have the confidence and willingness to understand and appreciate other people and cultures. They are compassionate global citizens, and the world needs more of them.
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Faith
Academics
At The Bear Creek School you don’t have to choose between faith and an exceptional education. Academic excellence is grounded in the liberal arts and exposes students to the great ideas and great works of the centuries while Christian values are modeled and woven throughout the curriculum and student life. Located in Redmond Preschool–Grade 12 Tuition Assistance Available
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A homegrown success story.
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othing speaks more highly of a community than the education and support it provides to its students. Issaquah is fortunate to provide both—an outstanding school district and the Issaquah Schools Foundation (ISF), which further supports students in specific, meaningful ways. A perfect example is the VOICE (Volunteers of Issaquah Changing Education) Mentor Program.
by Susan Gierke
In 2003 ISF did a needs assessment survey to discover unmet student needs, and concluded that one of the greatest needs was in the area of student development, including mentoring, tutoring, and additional counseling. With limited funding, the foundation did not know how it could tackle this enormous challenge. Recalls ISF executive director Robin Callahan, “Susan Gierke and I were listening to a grant presentation
from the Issaquah Valley principal requesting funds for students struggling. Susan, a new board member and recently retired teacher who was familiar with the Bellevue VIBES mentoring program, leaned over and said, ‘Don’t we have a program similar to VIBES? That’s just what these students need, a mentor.’ Susan was determined to get such a program started and worked gratis for the first year establishing the program at Issaquah Valley Elementary School and Issaquah Middle School.” That first year ended with 25 students matched with mentors. Since then, word of the program has spread and the work of the mentors with their students has been so valued by district personnel that the program has grown significantly. Today the VOICE Mentor Program is in all 23 Issaquah School District schools, with more than 150 mentors working with 182 students. With this wonderful success, however, comes a need for more VOICE mentors for Issaquah schools. VOICE recruits community members to work one-on-one with students. Mentors work with students in kindergarten through 12th grade for one hour per week during the school day, on the school campus, under the direction of school staff. If you have one hour a week to devote to a student in the Issaquah School District, please contact me at 425.837.6801, voice@issaquah.wednet.edu, or visit our website at issaquahschoolsfoundation. org/programs/index.htm#VOICE to find out how you can make a difference in the life of a student in our community.
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Post–high school career options Cougar Mountain Academy Est. 1962
A distinctive private Elementary School dedicated to high expectations, an excellent education based on international standards and a wonderful school experience for each child.
How to avoid the deadly “decade drift.”
by Steve Hanson
W
here are you going to college? Most high school seniors are asked that question. While many will rattle off several colleges they have applied to, there are also those who are undecided. Those are the ones who usually end up in “decade
working life. Technical colleges play a key role in training students for work, providing the skills needed to get a living-wage job. At Renton Technical College (RTC), the average student age is 31, but this is starting to trend down. More students
drift,” meaning they don’t go to college and instead end up working at a lowwage, dead-end job for about 10 years. At that point, the lightbulb comes on and they realize that they need to have a skill in order to enhance their personal life. What they don’t realize is that the wages they could have earned had they attended a vocational/technical school and gained a skill will never be made up during the remainder of their
are realizing that they need some entrylevel skills in order to compete in today’s job market. As more students opt for a post-secondary education, there has been a change in what the typical student looks like. For many years, nurses were fema le and welders were male. Not anymore. Women are discovering careers in the welding industry, as well as in construction, automotive fields, and technology. Men are training for careers
Grades Kindergarten through 5th and Pre-K
www.CougarMountainAcademy.org Issaquah, WA 98027 425-641-2800
Careers begin at Renton Technical College
www.RTC.edu 26 - Education Exploration
in nursing, office management, massage, and as medical assistants. The licensed practical nurse program at RTC is 40 percent male. Why the change? Young adults are encouraged more than ever to follow their passion and are able to make a career out of it. Doors are opening to a more diverse workforce. Instead of leaving high school and taking a decade to finally discover what their passion is, students can now enter careers without worrying about the gender role attached. That is how it is for Ronni and Chelesa, two women at Lake Washington Technical College who are training to be in a traditional male field. Both became interested in welding after tak-
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Hillside Student Community School College Prep & Arts since 1969
ing an elective in high school, and both have found many options are available in this industry. Promise, an RTC nursing student from Africa, is one of those pursing their passion. “I think more men should try nursing,” he says. “Men have compassion too and can do just as good. You are able to see that you are helping someone, and that is a good feeling. It is a good career choice for men.” In the end, high school students need to realize the value of marketable skills and not delay their postsecondary education for a decade. Gaining marketable skills after graduating from high school can result in higher earnings and more opportunities in the future.
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5th & 6th graders in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” isandbeyond.com - Education Exploration - 27
Don’t put him through another disappointing school year.
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COMMUNITY
Innovation in Issaquah
Rehabilitation
New program will showcase leading Issaquah innovators.
T
he Greater Issaquah Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with Virginia Mason Medical Center to promote the Chamber’s recently launched Innovation in Issaquah program, helping to showcase the “great innovators in greater Issaquah today.” This community promotion and business recognition initiative seeks to highlight and recognize the leading private-sector innovators in the Issaquah community. “Fostering innovation is critically important to us at Virginia Mason and is one of the key pillars in our strategic plan,” says Michael Ondracek, vice president of clinic operations and board member of the Issaquah Chamber of Commerce.
The program is scheduled to run for Michael Johnson, LMP more than three months. Local businesses Massage Therapy can nominate themselves or another Issaquah business that has developed Deep tissue & rehabilitation innovative strategies, products, services, specialist with or systems. The Chamber will promote 13-years experience each nominee through various print, treating: back, website, and social media outlets. At its neck, knee, arm January program, which also serves as the and leg pain as well as whiplash and Chamber’s kickoff to its 2011 program carpal tunnel syndrome. year, up to three winners will be selected, 425-246-6239 recognized, and awarded as leading DownTown Issaquah - MA10019 Issaquah innovators. If you want to nominate a business for 1 3/18/09 11:40:52 AM the Innovation Award, please download michael-j-massage_166-spring-09-b.indd Our work was proudly featured in the Winter the two-page nomination form 2009 issue of Issaquah, Sammamish and beyond... at issaquahchamber.com.
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real estate
The Education Effect by Jay Kipp
I
t is a fact that there is a positive correlation between the quality of public education in a local community and that community’s residential real estate values. From coast to coast, buyers agree that good schools create desirable neighborhoods, resulting in sound investments. In Issaquah and Sammamish, there is no doubt that the quality of the school districts is a key inducement for families to move here. Often, these buyers specifically identify the Lake Washington and Issaquah school districts as critical
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to their neighborhood selection. These two award-winning districts, along with the Mercer Island and Bellevue school districts, seem to attract the most attention from homebuyers. Even redistricting can have an impact on real estate values. Often, when a district constructs a new school or moves an elementary, middle, or high school boundary line, families make the switch too, selling to escape the old neighborhood and repurchasing within the new boundary. These moves often correspond to buyers’ perception of better schools. According to former Federal Reserve Bank of New York economist Sandra Black, “Buyers are willing to pay about 2.1 percent—or $3,948—more for houses in districts with test scores that are 5 percent higher than the mean. In a 1999 study, it was shown that, a move from a school that scores in the 25th percentile to a school that scores in the 75th percentile would result in a house price increase of $5,452.” Ranking among the top five school districts statewide, the
Issaquah and Lake Washington school districts continue to drive demand in the local market. These numbers are supported by research from the National Association of Realtors and are applicable across the country. A 2008 study of Ohio school districts showed that an increase of about 20 percentage points in the proficiency test pass rate increased home values in a school district by about 7 percent, even after other factors that can have an impact on home values were considered. Time and again research finds general confirmation that communities with better schools are rewarded with higher housing prices, that the premium commanded by good schools can be quantified, and that ongoing investments in schools are returned more quickly to taxpayers in communities experiencing high housing demand. This is why even empty-nest households know that a vote for good schools is a vote to maintain their real estate investment.
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When you come to the Swedish/Issaquah ER you won’t sit around in a waiting room. Instead, you’ll be taken directly to an exam room where our staff will start helping you right away. And we promise you’ll see a doctor in 30 minutes or less — usually far less. So next time you need instant attention, come to the kind of speedy ER you’ve been waiting for. 2005 N.W. Sammamish Rd., Issaquah (across the street from Lake Sammamish State Park) Open 24/7 – Get door-to-door driving instructions on the web at http://er.swedish.org Always call 911 in a life-threatening emergency.
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pets
Thinking About a Puppy This Year? Some help in making the correct choice.
by Denise Stringfellow
A
ssuming you are prepared to have a puppy in your life and you have the time necessary for such a challenge—er, joy—the next step is go get the puppy. Here are a few questions to ask yourself and some recommendations to think about as you begin your journey.
What type of dog matches my lifestyle? This is the first question to ask yourself, as it is so important. You want to avoid that situation in which your adorable puppy grows into an adult dog that is completely incompatible with your lifestyle. You might like the looks of an energetic Siberian Husky, but if you dislike dog hair, lead a sedentary life, and live in a small apartment, a Husky is probably going to be a disastrous choice. Think very carefully about how you live and what your needs and wants are; this will help you to make an intelligent, informed choice. Run your breed preferences by someone you trust, who knows you and who can be objective. Also, read Paws to Consider: Choosing the Right Dog for You and Your Family, by Brian Kilcommons and Sarah Wilson. Unlike most breed books, this one is arranged by owner lifestyle rather than by dog breed. You’ll find good options for city dogs, nine-to-five dogs, and low-shedding dogs, including pluses and minuses for each breed type. There’s also a handy section I wish everyone would read: not-for-everyone dogs.
32 - Issaquah, Sammamish and beyond...
Where should I get my puppy? If you are interested in a purebred puppy, you should consider a reputable breeder. A good breeder will ensure that your pup is healthy and properly socialized when you are ready to take one home. Consider going to a dog show, such as the Seattle Kennel Club Dog Show (March 12 to 13, at the Qwest Field Event Center), where you not only will have a great opportunity to talk to many different breeders, but also can meet some purebred rescue dogs as well, all under one roof. Another option is rescuing a puppy from a shelter or foster home. This can be a very rewarding experience, and there are several good ones in the area. Many shelter dogs make fantastic companions, and simply need an opportunity to settle into a forever home. Find out as much of the dog’s history as you can from the shelter, and specifically ask whether the pup was able to stay with its mother for at least three weeks and with its littermates for six to seven weeks. If so, the pup will have a much better chance of developing the social skills that he/she will need throughout life.
Are there any situations I should avoid?
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As a general rule, walk away from bottle-raised puppies, pups with no littermates, and pups separated from their litter prior to six weeks of age. Be very careful if you choose a puppy through the newspaper, from Craigslist, or via a pet store. Too often these puppies are from puppy mills or inexperienced breeders, and are usually understimulated and undersocialized, which can lead to serious behavior and health problems later in life. So, remember, look at your needs, take your lifestyle into consideration, and use available resources to help you choose your puppy accordingly. The right puppy is out there waiting for you!
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PROFILE
Perry Stained Glass Studio Creating multicolored treasures.
T
his story goes back a few years, to the 1960s, when Jim and Liz Perry were living in Santa Clara, California. Jim was a policeman and Liz was tending to three young children. Looking for spare work, Jim began building workbenches for a local glass studio, which in turn led to a job offer to learn the art of designing and creating fine stained glass. Wanting to move back home, Liz and Jim packed up their family and arrived in Seattle in 1971, during the height of the Boeing crunch, and were greeted by the famous roadside sign “Will the last person leaving Seattle—Turn out the lights.” They liked the country feel of Issaquah and opened their first studio here in August 1971. Their focus then, as now, is the creation and restoration of beautiful church windows. As Liz recalls, “Our first location was a storage unit in Rowley Center. There were very few affordable spaces for start-up businesses at that time, and we made do with no running water or heat. We look back on that time as our ‘starving artist in the garret’ episode.” With their stained glass business growing, they soon needed more space, and in 1981 they purchased the old Pacific Telephone exchange building on Front Street, built in the 1940s. This has been their location ever since. Thousands of people pass this small nondescript building every day without realizing that some of America’s finest stained glass work has been created inside.
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by Fred Nystrom
For the past 40 years Perry Stained Glass Studio has been one of the most respected and sought-after studios for church window restoration and new stained glass designs. Their beautiful work can be seen across the state and throughout the nation. As dad Jim says, with a knowledgeable nod of consent from son Jim, working on reglazing a window panel, “We do both contemporary and traditional stained glass. Our traditional glass is made in the same way they did in the Middle Ages, only now we have better kilns and firing methods. We are blessed that one of only two places in America to produce glass using the antique process, Fremont Antique Glass Company, is here in Seattle. When asked to describe their most creatively challenging work, the Perrys all agree it was the massive 24-by-24-foot stained glass window using 1-inch-thick glass installed in the clerestory of the sanctuary of St. Francis Catholic Church in Bend, Oregon, in 2009. Locally, you can see some of the Perry’s’ beautiful creations in the Community Church of Joy in Sammamish and the Fall City United Methodist Church in Fall City. The next time you drive along Front Street, take a moment to register that Jim, Liz, and their son, Jim, are in their studio working on their newest creation, which will bring much enjoyment, faith, and inspiration once it leaves this tiny studio to be installed as a treasure in a waiting church.
Perry Stained Glass Studio 470 Front St. N., Issaquah 392.1600 perrystainedglass.com
Enjoy your favorite college and pro games in our new atmosphere! Great Nightly Drink & Food Specials! 385 NW Gilman Blvd, Issaquah fieldofchampionssbg.com 425.392.7111 is-fieldOfChampions_166-ad-janFeb-2011.indd 1
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We specialize in helping you create the home of your dreams. Call or visit us online!
decrative concrete
www.MerrillDesign.net 485 Rainier Blvd. North, Suite 103, Issaquah, WA 98027 • 425-557-3774
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PATIOS WALKWAYS & DRIVEWAYS Interior & Exterior • Pool Decks Counter-tops • Entrances Architectural Walls • Fire Pits
425.392.5151 all applications including stamped & standard finishes 11520 NW Gilman Blvd, Issaquah (Meadows Center)
206.391.0184 • www.absolutelyfineconcrete.com
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NON-PROFITS
Friends of Youth The first place to turn for youths facing challenges.
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hat can parents do when their child has mental, emotional, or addiction problems? In the Issaquah community, the answer is sitting in a homelike office on Front Street. Friends of Youth (FOY) specializes in working with youths and their families to help both survive the rigors of growing up. Since 1951, Friends of Youth has been providing services to youths and their families to improve youths’ emotional stability and self-sufficiency. They have grown into five major divisions including residential treatment for youths, housing and services for homeless youths (more than 2,000 young people in King County are without a safe place to sleep each night), and workforce development. Last year FOY served more than 12,333 youths and their families with life-changing services. The local FOY office specializes in youth and family services. They are staffed with professionally trained counselors to provide four main areas of service, which are all available to any parent or child who needs assistance. They serve youths up to the age of 22 years. Friends of Youth 414 Front St N, Issaquah 392-6367
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The main service areas are: Mental health counseling FOY’s skilled, master’s-level counselors meet with children and parents in oneon-one and family sessions. They are very experienced in helping children and parents work through issues such as behavior problems, difficulties in school, depression and anxiety, and anger and conflict management. They also provide a variety of parenting classes for parents
or caregivers of young children and adolescents to provide the tools they need to help in the development of strong, healthy families. Substance abuse treatment The professional staff works to address the causes of substance abuse. They work closely with Issaquah schools and other community agencies to identify and address the known risk factors that contribute to substance abuse. They provide both family- and schoolbased services, including individual and small group sessions, as well as parenting education. Healthy Start The third program is designed to provide mentoring, counseling, and support to mothers under the age of 22 who are having their first child. Often
these are single mothers who need childdevelopment and health-care education, and in many cases they are mothers who need to learn how to be a caring and supportive parent. Preventive services These services, provided to schools in the Issaquah School District, are designed to prevent or head off behavior that can lead to adjustment problems for youths. The available “Life Skills” course includes information on conflict resolution and developing positive friends. To accomplish this preventive effort, FOY works closely with the staff at Beaver Lake, Maywood, and Issaquah middle schools. When asked what she is most proud of, FOY director Paula Frederick is quick to reply, “Without a doubt, I am most proud of the quality of care our professionally trained staff continues to give. They are well educated and trained, yet kind, understanding, and welcoming in their work with our clients. What more could I ask for?” Indeed, what more could this community ask for?
Issaquah Sewing & Vacuum Your Hometown Sewing & Vacuum Experts 425.392.9868
1180 NW Gilman Blvd. (next to Wells Fargo Bank)
Regularly $399
Miele Olympus
299
$
Baby Lock
199
$
Limited Supply Available!
www.IssaquahSewAndVac.com
425-392-9868
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Issaquah Insurance Agency We specialize in Personal Auto & Home insurance.
Call 425-392-7887 or email patrickshockley@comcast.net today for a FREE no-obligation quote. www.IssyInsurance.com phone: 425-392-7887 22525 SE 64th Place
HOME, AUTO & LIFE INSURANCE
Patrick Shockley
Independent Agent Since 1977
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Increasing the Probability of Good Fortune • Is your current advisor thrilling you via performance and client service? • Are you absolutely confident in the advice you’ve received? • Would you like a second opinion? In these volatile markets, you need someone who has the skills to help you keep on track to increase the probability of good fortune and help decrease your misfortune. I focus on highnet-worth individuals, corporate retirement plans, endowments and foundations. I’ll review your investments in light of the current up-and-down market and discuss what can be done to help you increase your probability of good fortune. Susan H. Lawrence, CIMA®
Call us today to schedule an introductory meeting with us — and learn why our client retention rate is so high!
Investment and insurance products:
Senior Vice President – Investment Officer 1180 Northwest Maple Street, Suite 170 Issaquah, WA 98027 Phone 425-369-1423 lrigroup@wfadvisors.com www.lrigroup.wfadv.com X NOT FDIC-Insured X NO Bank Guarantee X MAY Lose Value
Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. 0909-3699 [81081-v1] 9/09
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FINANCE
Saving for Higher Education H The key is to start early. by Susan Lawrence
aving enough money to educate a child or grandchild is on many people’s minds. One way to build your children’s or grandchildren’s education funds federal-tax-free is to establish a 529 college savings plan. Let’s face it: College is expensive. According to our research, an individual
entering a public university in the fall of 2027 will need more than $200,000 to pay for four years of full-time college costs. How can you help provide your children or grandchildren with a quality college education? A 529 plan may help you make the most of your education investment dollars. Why invest in a 529 plan? A 529 plan lets you: • Invest in your children’s or grandchildren’s education federaltax-free. • Contribute up to $65,000 ($130,000 for couples) per student without a gift tax.
Captivating Cuisines Whether it’s casual/fine dining, take out/delivery, or happy hour, consider these listed establishments to enjoy your favorite cuisine—within a comfortable short drive from home… American cuisine
Organic Japanese
Steak/Seafood
Sip
Sushiman
Flat Iron Grill
670 NW Gilman Blvd. #B1, Issaquah 425.391.4295
317 NW Gilman Blvd. #28, Issaquah 425.657.0373 | flatirongrill.com
Sip at the wine bar & restaurant is everything a great wine bar should be. Welcoming. Sophisticated. Comfortable. Lively. Offering a well balanced American cuisine that spotlights bold flavors, locally sourced seasonal ingredients, & spectacular presentations; passionate & experienced culinary teams; attentive & knowledgeable wait staff. Life’s fast...sip slow. Weekdays Open at 5pm; Weekends Open at 4pm.
Serving up Japanese favorites, Sushiman is happy to be a part of Issaquh since 1990 and would like to invite you to enjoy our organic menu. Tues-Fri 11:30am2:30pm, 5pm-10pm.
Northwest steak & s e a f o o d with South American influences. You’ll find an abundance of savory flavors and mouthwatering meats, plus fresh, local seafood dishes and sweet treats to finish off your meal. With over 150 wines, 70 whiskies and great food Flat Iron Grill is the perfect place for any occasion. Mon-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 10am-9pm.
1084 NE Park Drive, Issaquah 425.369.1181 | siprestaurant.com
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B Breakfast
Br Brunch
L Lunch
O Outdoor dining
D Dinner
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Takeout/delivery
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Weekend/late night
K Kid friendly SB
Sports bar
Other entertainment
Wine bar
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Happy hour
C Catering
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Live entertainment
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Private parties
R Reservations DG
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Full Bar
• Remove assets from your estate while retaining control over them. • Transfer assets to another family beneficiary, if necessary. • Make qualified 529 plan withdrawals federal-tax-free. • Potentially receive a state tax deduction on contributions as well as state-tax-free withdrawals. • Enjoy high contribution maximums. In addition, you can use 529 plan assets at almost any accredited two- or fouryear postsecondary school in the country to pay for tuition, room and board, books, and other required supplies. Withdrawals for nonqualified (not related to postsecondary education) pur-
poses will trigger a 10 percent Internal Revenue Service penalty on your earnings as well as regular taxes. State tax deductions and state-tax-free withdrawals are limited to residents of states that allow these benefits. These state tax benefits may have an impact on your federal taxes. It’s important to consult your tax adviser regarding your particular situation. Keep in mind, the value of your 529-plan investment will fluctuate. When you redeem your shares, they may be worth more or less than your original investment. Also, there is no guarantee that an account will grow enough to cover higher education expenses.
If you’re concerned about rising education costs, you may want to take advantage of this savings vehicle. If you would like someone to take a look at your situation and determine whether 529 plans are suitable for your portfolio, call 425.369.1423, and we would be happy to do so. We can also provide you with a complimentary education cost summary that will estimate your children’s or grandchildren’s education savings needs and/or a copy of “529 Plans: An Education Savings Vehicle with Multiple Benefits.”
MARKETplace AUTO DETAILING
FINANCES - ACCOUNTING
RECYCLING
How will the new tax laws affect you & your business?
FREE tronic Elec ycling Rec
Your local collection site for recycling computers, CPUs (towers), laptops, monitors & TVs
Make the wise decision—our QuickBooks experts & CPAs are here for you
Committed to the highest quality detailing services since 1979 Visit our website for more information www.bradleysdetail.com 2 locations to serve you — 90 NW Gilman Blvd #F, Issaquah. • (425) 392-6860 13600 NE 16th, Bellevue. • (425) 641-9932
DENTIST
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Recycle Center
970 - 7th NW, Iss. (just south of Safeway)
425-274-4020 7:30 AM - 4:30PM MON - FRI
Tate & Oellrich Inc. PS Certified Public Accountants
425-392-5650 tateandoellrich.com Tax, accounting, bookkeeping, & payroll since 1964.
meats
www.atwork.org/recycle.php Electronics contain toxic materials. Recycle safely to keep these materials out of landfills.
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Advertise in the
MARKETplace Meat, Poultry, Sausage, Service
To place your message under your preferred business category, contact sales@isandbeyond.com.
Dr. John R. Liu Dr. SallySue M. Lombardi Dr. Donna J. Quinby Specializing in Dentistry for Infants, Children & Adolescents Special Care for Nervous Children Dental Health Checkups
Members American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Certified, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
185 NE Gilman Blvd., Issaquah 425.392.4048 www.eastsidepediatricdentalgroup.com
425.392.3131
fischermeatsnw.com | 85 Front Steet N.
New patients always welcome!
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Upcoming EVENTS
“Reactive Rover” class at Riverdog, where they use progressive positive behavior conditioning to develop new responses to situations that prompt your dog to overreact. This class is limited to six dogs to ensure effective learning and practice. Be prepared to learn new ways of relating to your dog that will in“Super Sitters” Babysitting Training crease his or her ability to handle challenging situations. For more information, contact Riverdog Canine Coaching at 425.427.5958 or visit riverdogk9.com.
Start Off the New Year With These Events Starting January 5, 7, and 8, and February 9, 11, and 12
Glassblowing Classes
Learn the fundamentals of blowing glass and create art; everything you make is yours to keep. There are no prerequisites, other than a desire to learn and have fun. Starting in January and February, classes run for four weeks, with classes once a week in four-hour blocks. Classes are limited to two to four students to ensure maximum individual attention and progress. Tuition is $475, which includes all materials, equipment, and instruction. For class schedules and to register, call Art by Fire, 425.996.8867 or visit artbyfire.com. January 8
January 10 to March 7
Premier Performing-Arts Training Program Village Theatre’s KIDSTAGE is now registering students for its winter lineup of exploratory acting, fundamental acting, and musical theatre classes for students from prekindergarten to 20 years old. “Early Acting” classes for pre-K through second-grade students encourage confidence by building theater and life skills in a fun and supportive environment. For students in first to fifth grade, “Fundamental Acting” and “Musical Theatre” classes are offered. Tuitions range from $160 to $260. For more information about KIDSTAGE or to schedule an interview, please contact Michelle Sanders at 392.1942, ext. 124, or msanders@villagetheatre.org, or visit villagetheatre.org/ks_classes.php. January 11 to February 15
“Reactive Rover”
Parenting Classes
Is your dog overly reactive to other dogs and/or people? Are frustrated with your dog’s barking and lunging on leash? There is hope! Enroll in the
Parenting classes for parents of 2- to 12-year-olds are offered by Friends of Youth. This six-week program is on Tuesday evenings from 7
40 - Issaquah, Sammamish and beyond...
to 9 p.m. For further information, call 392.6367 or visit friendsofyouth.org. January 29
Issaquah Developmental Screening
Do you have questions about the development of your preschooler or kindergartener? Come to a free developmental screening, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Issaquah, from noon to 3:15 p.m. at the Issaquah Library. Encompass will screen children age 2 to 5 for the development of motor, speech, self-help, social and cognitive skills. Follow-up reports will be mailed soon afterward. February 5
“Super Sitters” Babysitting Training “Super Sitters,” the popular Encompass-sponsored babysitting class, will be offered at the Encompass Main Campus, 1407 Boalch Ave. NW, North Bend. During the six-hour class (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), teens age 11 to 17 will learn about parent expectations, first aid, child development, personal safety, the Heimlich maneuver, nutrition, home security, fire prevention, telephone tips, toys and activities, infant care, and other sitter responsibilities. The class costs $35. For more info, call 425.888.2777 or visit encompassnw.org. February 15
Education Expo Sponsored by this magazine and the Greater Issaquah Chamber of Commerce, the first free Education Expo will be held at Pickering Barn; doors open at 3 p.m. Learn about local public and private schools and the enhancement programs available in this community from the 40 exhibitors in attendance. A series of presentations begin at 4, each addressing a vital topic of value to every parent. The final speaker, Scott Oki, speaks at 7 p.m. Register to attend at isandbeyond.com and you will be entered into a series of drawings for prizes.