December 2017

Connections

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Home Holidays FOR THE

Photo by: Julie Clegg

By Community, for Community December 2017

W H AT ’ S I N S I D E ?

4 Holidays in the Highlands 5 Feature: Home for the Holidays 8 HY Highlands Youth 9 Highlands Council 10 Volunteer of the Month 11 IHCA News, Homeowner Tips, Etc. 14 What’s Happening 16 Community Giving

17 17 19 20 21 21 22 23 23 24

Doing Business Living Green Arts and Entertainment Issaquah City News Photo Treasure Hunt Highlands Fiber Network Fitness and Health Ask Kari Blakely Hall Art School Spotlight

26 Emergency Preparedness 27 Directory

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• December 2017

Issaquah Highlands Connections

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

FROM THE EDITOR

Dear Reader,

As I read the final collection of stories for this month’s Connections, as they so beautifully lay in place in the pre-press proof, I discovered a smile forming on my face. I felt comforted by a quilt of community.

The themes in this month’s Connections formed around strong community building virtues, those common themes of the holiday season: Giving, Engagement, Friendliness and Contribution. Our writers might be far-flung throughout the community, but they are of one mind: building community through these virtues.

With the holiday season come community events to plan for, and to attend. You will find plenty in these pages. If you are more the stay-at- Blakely Hall is decoraated home type, you can simply savor the feature story this month, “Home for the holidays. for the Holidays”. From the community, we collected stories of various perspectives of holiday life at home, wherever that might be, varied but always grateful and giving.

We are surrounded by people who care. Some care enough to invest their family’s money in opening a business here. Some show their art here. Some will be out caroling door-to-door as we get close to Christmastime. Others might contribute their time or hard-earned-cash to those in need. One writer even reminds us that saying hello and being inclusive is good for us, as well as for our community.

About the cover: Highlands Council photographer and Dahlia Park resident, Julie Clegg, captured this quintessential image of Highlands home-life during last winter’s snowstorm. The cool colors of winter are offset by the warm, yellow door, which to me seems very inviting. “Come on inside!” it says. “We would be delighted to have you as our guest.”

I hope you all have the happiest of holidays, whichever you celebrate, wherever you celebrate them.

Happy Holidays!

Nina Milligan Editor of Connections - Highlands Council Communications Manager Highlands Council is the publisher of Connections, producer of community-wide events such as Highlands Day, owner and manager of Blakely Hall, liaison with the greater community. The mission of Highlands Council, and therefore, Connections News, is “to foster the development of a vibrant and caring community committed to service, diversity, and well-being.”

December 2017 •

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• December 2017

HOLIDAYS IN THE HIGHLANDS

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Keep track of details of these and more holiday happenings at: issaquahhighlands.com/holidays-in-the-highlands Issaquah Highlands Club Inclusive Personal Hygiene Drive Drop off at Blakely Hall, 2550 NE Park Drive, through December 8 Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm.

Collecting items of need for the residents of Tent City. Drop off donated items at Blakely Hall. Items needed include: toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant (travel size), hair brushes, large combs/ picks, soap, shampoo/hair care products, razors, tissue packages, nail clippers, nail polish and remover, tweezers, and Chapstick.

Santa Paws Photos with Pets Grand Ridge Plaza December 2, 6, 12 & 20 At Santa’s House on Grand Ridge Plaza Bring your pet for a photo with Santa.

Sensory Sensitive Santa Photos Grand Ridge Plaza December 4, 11, 16 & 18, 8 – 10am At Santa’s House on Grand Ridge Plaza IHCA Food Drive Through December 4, M-F 8-5 IHCA Office, 1011 High Street, Suite 210 Storytime with Mrs. Claus Wednesday, December 6, 10am Soma Intimates, Grand Ridge Plaza

*** For more information about these and other holiday events, see issaquahhighlands.com/holidays-in-the-highlands/ Blakely Hall, Issaquah Highlands’ community center, is located at 2550 NE Park Drive, Issaquah, WA

Grand Chanukah Community Celebration Hosted by Chabad of the Central Cascades Wednesday, December 13, 6pm Blakely Hall, 2550 NE Park Drive See flyer below for details.

Club Inclusive (Giving Back) Thursday, December 14, 6pm – 8pm Blakely Hall, 2550 NE Park Drive We will be making care packages for the homeless. Please help us collect personal hygiene products, such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, conditioner, etc.

Christmas Eve Service Hosted by Summit LIFE Church Sunday, December 24, 5pm Blakely Hall, 2550 NE Park Drive

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2017 •

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Photo by Julie Clegg

The holiday season is a special time in Issaquah Highlands, so let’s appreciate being home for the holidays! What family holiday traditions do you follow at home with your family?

Thank you to those community members who shared their stories and photos!

My husband and I love to travel and are active in the Highland’s Travel Club. For the last 23 years, we have been collecting a Christmas ornament whenever we travel someplace new. We have dozens of them now and every year when we decorate our tree, we love to reminisce about the many trips we’ve taken together.”

—MARY HALL

We have a lot of family Christmas traditions but one of our newer and favorite ones that we have been doing for about 6 years is our Lego winter village. I build the Lego sets and Missy sets up the village, complete with snow!

New for this year will be a working Lego train and train station!”

— BEN ARMLIN Above, the Armlin family’s Lego winter village.

Our family of 5 enjoys many little traditions such as all members of the family decorate the Christmas tree. We love driving around the neighborhood looking at pretty Christmas lights, we also love our elf on the shelf, Kevin. And last, we love taking family pictures with Dear Santa!”

—SANDRA FLOYD

One of our favorite Christmas traditions is for the biggest Christmas gift for my daughter. She has to work for it. It’s the last gift and there is a note on the Christmas tree. The note requires her to do something- like bark like a dog while hopping on one foot to the next note. We normally have about seven notes that lead her to the final spot and the final gift. She loves it and asks that we do it every year!”

—NICOLE CAHANIN

Last Thanksgiving I cooked for the folks in Tent City off of exit 20. There are 40 tents there. Starting this year, I am going to cook for Christmas as well and bring them food. Exit 20 is barely 5 minutes from the Highlands. They are our neighbors, just not as fortunate as us. They loved my turkey biryani last year.”

—SAIKAT SEN

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Our favorite holiday traditions have got to be: 1) cooking a lavish vegetarian feast and enjoying the smells wafting through the house (and later, the tastes!); 2) hitting the Grand Ridge Trail as a family to enjoy the fresh air after sitting down for a delicious meal; and 3) getting out the instruments and having a family jam session.”

— TERESA COWAN

Above, Indiana and Sage Cowan singing during the holiday season, a few years ago.

As a kid, my family had the tradition of purchasing Christmas ornaments as souvenirs when we traveled to new places on vacation. I’m continuing that tradition now with my husband.

Every year, we decorate our Christmas tree and reminisce about our travels together over the years. While we love to travel, I’ll admit my favorite place to be at Christmas is right here at home, with family and friends.”

— VICKI GRUNEWALD Highlands Council Graphic Designer & Digital Marketing Coordinator

Left, the Grunewald family’s souvenir ornamnent from a 2016 trip to London.

One of my favorite traditions is making cookies and decorating gingerbread houses with my kids! We have been doing this since my oldest could hold a rolling pin. I love seeing their creativity and it’s so much fun to share the cookies with friends and Santa.”

— BRENDA ZYLSTRA

Right, Brenda’s kids use holiday-themed cookie-cutters for festive sugar cookies.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

“Each year I bake mini, hand piped sugar cookies and pack them in Christmas cellophane baggies and on Christmas Eve I drive around downtown Seattle and hand the bags out to any homeless people I can find. I hope this helps warm their hearts for Christmas.”

—JESSICA DORSEY IHCA Community Manager

Above, a photo of Jessica’s assortment of holiday sugar cookies for the homeless.

The first Saturday after Thanksgiving we take a group of friends and family out to the Christmas Tree farm that is in my husband’s family. The kids play games amongst the trees, the dogs run free, we eat lunch around a camp fire with s’mores and pick the best trees for the season!”

—MICHELLE ENEBO Since I am very busy preparing for our January tradeshows from late October to January 1st - I have a unique holiday called ThanksHannukahMas that is an open house on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. On this day, which is my last day off for a while, I cook all my family’s favorite meals; roast turkey, smoked brisket, matzoh ball soup, cheesecake, sweet potato pie - it’s quite a feast! We also decorate the tree - which stays up until Super Bowl Sunday when I finally have time to take it down. Making new traditions to keep the family happy!”

—KIMBERLY KAPUSTEIN

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2017 •

On Thanksgiving day, while the meal is cooking, my husband, Alex, constructs and adds another element to our Lego Christmas Village. He LOVES Star Wars, as you can see Darth Vader is a regular visitor. My personal favorite holiday tradition is a trip to Squak Mountain Nursery.

I love being immersed in the green house full of poinsettias.”

— CHRISTY GARRARD Highlands Council Executive Director Left, a peek into the Garrard family Lego Christmas Village, featuring Darth Vader.

The grandparents give each of us a new ornament every year. Add that to the ones Paul and I have from childhood and the ones the kids have made at school, and we have an extensive tree decorating party every year. We sort all the ornaments into individual collections, then take turns putting them on the tree, often reminiscing the story of the ornament. Then we open up one of those metal holiday themed popcorn tins and watch a Christmas movie like Elf (kid’s choice) or It’s a Wonderful Life (mom’s choice).”

—KATHRYN DEAN

Right, the Dean family helps decorate the family Christmas tree.

We spend Christmas in Leavenworth. Last year we were in a cabin; this year, we have a camper.”

—TARAMARIE OLSON

When our kids were younger, we started allowing them to use any cuss words they wanted, but ONLY on Christmas Eve. The tradition started one year when I was drinking too much eggnog and assembling toys deep into the night and my husband caught me on video cursing up a storm. We decided that the ordinarily taboo words could be spoken only on December 24 “because Santa already had his sleigh loaded and couldn’t be troubled by one or two foul-mouthed kids this late in the game”. It became a year-long family tradition to remind the kids not to use inappropriate language any other day, but to save it up for that one special event. The funny part is that they hardly ever took advantage of it, other than to giggle and make a few very mild comments at dinner. But it did keep them in line for the rest of the year!”

—KELLY BLEIWEIS

Now that my husband and I are older, we don’t like the hassle of coming up with gift ideas for each other so every December we treat ourselves to a holiday weekend in the city; go out and have a nice dinner and shop together for each other’s gifts. You always get what you want that way!”

—ERIKA NORTH IHCA Senior Community Manager

Below, Erika and her husband vacationing on the lake in Coeur d’Alene, ID.

We love to decorate the house with candles and make beautiful Rangoli with colored powder or sand. [We] enjoy cooking holiday sweets and snacks together and share them with friends and families, worship God and Goddesses for Good health and wealth. We wear beautiful new traditional clothes. Playing cards and games is fun activities to do. We all love and enjoy holiday traditions.”

— RINKU JAIN

Above, Rinku’s family dressed to celebrate Diwali.

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HIGHLANDS YOUTH - THE HY

Morrey Family Caroling Traditions

by Alex Morrey, HY Board Member and resident of the Harrison Street Neighborhood

The Morrey Christmas Caroling tradition began in 2008. I had recently learned about caroling and I remember asking my mom why we had never gone. She said that if I wanted to, we could go door to door around our Roanoke Woods cul-de-sac one night close to Christmas and carol for our neighbors. I was so excited! I created songbooks with some classic Christmas songs, and she invited our next door neighbor and her little girls. We all went around the neighborhood together. A few families joined in along the way, and by the end we had about ten people.

Year after year, more and more families joined, and we eventually started hosting a pre-caroling party with hot chocolate and small holiday appetizers at our house and then pizza and cookies afterwards. When we moved away from Roanoke Woods four years ago, the tradition continued except now it’s around the Harrison Street area.

I love how caroling has become such a fun tradition and how it’s something my family and I look forward to every year.

We invite former neighbors from Roanoke Woods, current neighbors and friends, including fellow HY member Meg Kilzi and her family. We still have songbooks with the classic Christmas Carols, but now we put the pages in plastic sheets to protect them from the rain/snow. We also provide flashlights and fun Christmas hats! This December, we plan to carol the week before Christmas, but plan around the weather. Our route is Harrison Drive, and the top part of Harrison Street, but it depends on the weather.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2017 •

HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

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What Do We Do? The Year in Review

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

In January, we launched a community-wide survey and with record results. You told us land development and traffic were your top concerns. You said you felt safe but wished you knew your neighbors better. You did not feel IssaquahHighlands.com was a valued community resource. We went to work.

Following the City’s work in Land Development

Our staff spent many hours attending city council and committee meetings; following the city’s work as they: • untangled the Issaquah Highlands Development Agreement that terminates this month, • negotiated the Trade in Development Rights (TDRs) for additional housing in Polygon’s Westridge neighborhood development, • continued to work with Shelter Holdings on the future of the L-shaped parcel that runs along 9th Avenue and Discovery Drive, across from Grand Ridge Plaza, and • debated the best use of the King County Island parcel next to West Highlands Park and the Issaquah School Districts desire to locate a second elementary school that would serve our community on that parcel.

Highlands Council was excited to break the news about CitySurf and participated in the ground-breaking ceremony for the improvements to Central Park’s Pad 1. We also encouraged community participation in the City’s Parks & Recreation Department’s efforts to hear from you about new park amenities via a community meeting at Grand Ridge Elementary and online surveys – we may get that splash park yet!

We launched a Development webpage at IssaquahHighlands.com to provide a one-stop spot for you to find the answers to growth in our community. We continue to follow land development news and look forward to presenting our annual comprehensive report in the February 2018 issue of this publication.

Traffic

Highlands Council assembled a comprehensive Transit Options issue of Connections in April with a companion webpage at IssaquahHighlands.com to make finding solutions to beating traffic easy for the people who live here. That transportation initiative was so impressive to the City of Issaquah and King County that I was invited to participate in a WSDOT Transportation Workshop, representing Issaquah Highlands, last July.

In July, Highlands Council hosted City Leaders for a community meeting to address resident concerns about traffic safety in IH. Since that July meeting, Highlands Council, together with the IHCA, has attended multiple collaborative planning meetings with the City of Issaquah and are excited to launch an awareness campaign next month!

Safety

While the survey results from January said you felt safe in our community, those feelings were shaken by two armed-robberies of local businesses. Highlands Council immediately partnered with the Issaquah Police Department (IPD) and hosted a Town Hall-style meeting at Blakely Hall to discuss stakeholder concerns. Top tips included:

Happy Holidays from Highlands Council, from left to right: Nina, Brianna, Vicki, Michele, Julie & Christy.

IssaquahHighlands.com as a Community Resource

Highlands Council assembled resident focus groups and held multiple meetings to gather feedback regarding improving the user experience on our community website. We re-designed: • The home page – moving the most popular SEARCH topics to the main page • Improved the IHCA page & Highlands Council page – making it easier to locate the documents you need • Added a Real Estate Guide to the Doing Business drop down menu – providing everything you need to know about buying and selling in IH in one convenient location.

We will continue to make website improvements in 2018, including an initiative to convert our governing documents from pdfs to webpages, making specific word searches on the website much more fruitful.

Connecting as Neighbors

This year, Nina and I participated in a City of Issaquah Neighborhood Summit to share connecting ideas with other community leaders around greater Issaquah. Issaquah Highlands clearly leads the city in community building efforts because we have Highlands Council.

• Residents started four new clubs started in 2017: Entrepreneur Club, Women in STEM, Ladies Lunch Bunch, and the Meditation Group.

• Locking our doors

• Our multicultural clubs hosted four major celebrations at Blakely Hall

• Turning on porch lights at night

• The Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board also hosted four events for teens and this month’s Parents Night Out service project.

• Keeping valuables out of site in our vehicles • Considering camera security systems • And most importantly, encouraged us “If we see something, SAY SOMETHING,” by calling the IPD’s non-emergency line (425-837-3200).

The IPD was back at Blakely Hall in June with a Paws on Patrol training, educating dog owners on how to be extra eyes for law enforcement when they are walking their pets.

Highlands Council is committed to emergency preparedness. This year I attended Red Cross Shelter and Mass Care training to better support our community in the event of a disaster. Our own CERT Team 9 met regularly throughout the year, practiced skills and recruited a record number of neighbors to become volunteer Citizen Emergency Response Team certified this fall.

• Our community gardeners supported a local girl scout troop’s effort to collect fresh produce for the Issaquah Food and Clothing Bank through the Grow A Row program. Over 300lbs of produce, including 700 tomatillos, were harvested!

• We all embraced the happily-ever-after spirit of Once Upon a Highlands Day at the end of the summer festival with over 5,000 in attendance!

• In September, our community began enjoying monthly visits from the King County Library-2-Go book mobile at Blakely Hall (back December 5th!).

• We welcomed many new neighbors during two New Resident Orientation Receptions.

• And we kept our community civically and economically engaged by hosting a series of local campaign forums at Blakely Hall, the annual Veteran’s Day ceremony on November 10th and the Shop Local Saturday Holiday Bazaar on November 25th.

Highlands Council is not the HOA; perhaps you know that already. Highlands Council runs Blakely Hall, oversees social programming and official communications for Issaquah Highlands; but what does that look like exactly? I am proud to share this recap of our work in 2017, guided by your feedback and requests, and provide a sneak peek at what we are already planning in 2018. Happy Holidays!

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH Nate Perea | December Volunteer of the Month We knew right away that we wanted to get involved and be a part of making this community great.

Having grown up nearby, my wife Darcy and I discovered Issaquah Highlands, and Dahlia Park as a great place to raise our kids. The area has grown and changed, but I still find much of the charm and character from my memories. Our three kids are lucky, as was I, to grow up in this wonderful place.

One of the most valuable aspects of living in the Highlands is the social nature of its people.

We have a great culture where people like to socialize, and I’ve just been happy to be a part of making that experience happen.

Back in the early days, I was glad to serve as Neighborhood Captain (Dahlia Park), and as an IHCA Voting Board Member. After that, I volunteered on the city level, sitting on the City of Issaquah Urban Village Development Commission from 2009-2011, and the City of Issaquah Planning Policy Commission from 2010-2014. I also served the Issaquah Schools Foundation on the Board of Directors. All these volunteer roles were rewarding and contributed to my growth as an engaged citizen.

This spring, Highlands Council contacted me about the Issaquah Highlands candidate forums at Blakely Hall. I was more than happy to help however I could. I was honored they asked me to be the series moderator. This involved collecting questions from the community, compiling background information for context, then quizzing the candidates on those topics in a way to help voters see how the candidates differed. It was a lot of fun and very rewarding to see how well received the forums were in the community.

I think it is very important to be engaged in local government. “Off-year” election cycles, like this one in 2017, often go unnoticed or unknown to many constituents. But your City,

INK BY JACK

by Jack Tillman, West Highlands Park. Follow him @artastrophe

Nate Perea, Volunteer of the Month, volunteered over four months to help produce, and to moderate, our Candidate Forums at Blakely Hall. Here overseeing the responses of the mayoral primary candidates in July.

County and School Board elected officials can have more influence over our day-to-day lives than those at the state and federal level. I was happy to help produce the candidate forums at Blakely Hall, helping voters in Issaquah become more familiar with their local leaders and the issues and to see the importance of making an informed vote.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2017 •

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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Accounting Update

Upcoming January 2018 Assessments IHCA Assessments Reminder: The semi-annual homeowner (IHCA) assessments are effective January 1, 2018 through June 30, 2018. The homeowners will be mailed their semi-annual assessment statements by December 8, 2017.

For check payers, the semi-annual assessments are due by January 1, 2018.

• Payments not received by July 10, 2018 may incur late and other collection fees.

• Those on the semi-annual payment plan must pay in full all six months of the assessment period by check or online.

• One-time online payments can be made with free eCheck (rates subject to change) or credit/debit cards, which comes with a fixed fee of $14.95 per transaction (rates subject to change) to the homeowner.

• Our bank’s online payment portal is available on IssaquahHighlands.com Residents on the monthly electronic bank debit payment (ACH) plan will receive statements for informational purposes only and NO payments are required (unless there are other delinquent balances, e.g., unpaid fines or late fees). Your January monthly assessments are same as the July 2017 assessments.

We encourage semi-annual payers to convert to the monthly ACH payment plan. This ensures timely payments and internal efficiency. This is IHCA’s recommended monthly payment plan; 84% of the residents are currently on this plan. An ACH form is provided with your billing statement for your convenience.

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

Independent Auditor’s Report We are pleased to announce that the IHCA has received an unqualified “clean” opinion on our Independent Auditor’s Report. It states that IHCA financial statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2017 appear presented fairly and in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. The audit was completed by Cagianut & Company, CPA. The audit report is posted on IssaquahHighlands.com .

Be Safe This Holiday Season

by Erika North, Senior Community Manager

Ah yes, the Holidays are here again. This is the time of year when decorations are displayed and people celebrate the festive times with friends and family. This is also the time of year when the risk of home fires and other hazards increases drastically. Be safe during this time by following some simple safety tips: • HOLLY, LILLIES and POINSIETTIAS: are poisonous to pets.

• WATER YOUR TREE: Make a fresh cut on the base before putting your tree into a sturdy stand and water it frequently. Trees drink at least a quart of water a day and more the first few days after being cut. Never let your pet drink from the tree water!

• PLACE YOUR TREE IN A SAFE AREA: Your tree should be positioned at least three feet away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources. It should also not block any doorways or exits. Securely anchor your tree so children and pets can’t pull it over.

• CHECK YOUR LIGHTS: Inspect all of your electric lights and decorations for damage or wear. Cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires and loose connections may pose a fire or shock hazard. Use only UL approved lights with cool-burning light bulbs and do not link more than 3 strands of lights together.

• DECORATE WITH A SAFE EYE: Cords should not be run under carpets or tacked-up with metal nails or staples. Small decorations can be choking hazards so keep them out of the reach of toddlers.

• USE CAUTION WITH CANDLES: Always blow out unattended candles and keep children and pets away from lit candles and fireplaces.

• RECYCLE WRAPPING PAPER: Don’t burn used wrapping paper as it may cause intense flash fires.

Throwing it out adds waste so consider recycling or repurposing it instead.

• RECYCLE YOUR TREE: The local Boy Scouts will collect your tree on Saturday, January 6th, 2018.

Watch the weekly e-letter for more information. Subscribe to the weekly e-letter at IssaquahHighlands.com.

• TEST YOUR ALARMS: Both smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be tested and batteries replaced if necessary.

• PLAN YOUR FIRE ESCAPE: Identify at least two exits from every room in the house in case of a fire.

Have a fire drill with your kids.

Have a wonderful time but be safe this Holiday Season!

Thank You and Congratulations, Erika North!

by Sarah Hoey, IHCA, Executive Director

Please join me in saying a BIG thank you to IHCA’s Senior Community Manager Erika North! As of December 3rd, Erika has dedicated herself to the governance of Issaquah Highlands for 10 years! Thank you Erika for your invaluable contributions to the Issaquah Highlands Community over the past decade!

Here are a few notes of thanks to you from friends: Erika is a ray of sunshine in the morning. Always greets me with a smile as she first walks in the office. She has a vast amount of knowledge about our community and she is always willing to help when she is asked. If I don’t know the answer to something rest assured Erika can probably help me out. I really have enjoyed working with her for the last ten years. Congrats Erika!!

Barbara Uribe, IHCA accountant She is calm under difficult situations.

Great deal of knowledge, not just the industry, but 10 years with IHCA. Willingness to share her knowledge.

Hard worker and loyal.

Thanks, Joon S. Chang, IHCA CPA

Erika North celebrates 10 years of service to the Issaquah Highlands community.

Photo by: Shubha Tirumale

Erika:You are the most positive person I have ever met and your willingness to help individuals and show compassion are without compromise. What a treasure you are to the IHCA team, thank you for all your years of teamwork!

Sarah Hoey , Executive Director IHCA Over the past ten years the community has had the privilege of having Erika as an intricate part of community management. Over the past several years of knowing her I have been able to see how she cares for the community. She takes great pride from making sure the reserve studies are as accurate as possible; this insures the dues are as accurate as possible. Her process and due diligence have helped make a plan not just for today but for the future. She helped make and maintain Issaquah Highlands to the current standards that it is today and help homeowners be able to improve on their individual properties. We are thankful for her commitment and service for the last 10 years.

Matthew Hendrikse, Maintenance Supervisor, IHCA

I have known Erika for eight of those ten years, and she has always been an absolute joy to work with and makes for a great co-worker and friend. Over the years I have found Erika really cares about the community and has its best interest in mind. Erika is always willing to go the extra mile to help with task be it either in the office or in the field.

Erika has been an integral part of this community and it would not be quite the same without her. Thank you Miss Erika.

Lyle Dickey, Landscape Manager, IHCA As President of the Board of Directors of the IHCA and on its behalf, I want to thank Erika for 10 years of exceptional service. Her knowledge and commitment to our residents is endless. From knowing what makes each of our neighborhoods unique, to how to explain the ARC process, to her invaluable assistance to orienting our new employees and residents she is the go-to person.

Jim D. Young, President, Board of Directors, IHCA As far back as I can recall, Erika has been on the scene, taking care of IHCA business in a warm, friendly and efficient manner. She has always been on the top of her game, even when she had other things on her mind. I have very much enjoyed working with Erika. Thanks for all you do Ericka- you’ve done your part to make Issaquah Highlands a great place to live.

Larry Norton, President, Highlands Council I’ve been a member of the Architectural Review Committee for the past six and a half years and been a resident of the Issaquah Highlands for almost 11 years. Resident volunteer driven committees such as the ARC require greatly on our IHCA liaison to facilitate, organize and keep our meetings running smoothly. Erika has been our IHCA liaison for as long as I have been a member and a critical component to ensuring our meetings are efficient, effective and informed. Her professionalism and organization have been a tremendous asset to the group and we are lucky to have her.

Ben Rush, Member IHCA, Architectural Review Committee (ARC)

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• December 2017

Issaquah Highlands Connections

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Who is Responsible for Clearing Snow in Issaquah Highlands?

The forecasters at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center have issued the forecast for a La Nina system which means those of us living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest will experience cold and wet conditions this winter. This is very good news for our local skiers but this also means we will have a greater chance of seeing some snow on our streets.

The IHCA does not own the streets or sidewalks and therefore is not responsible for snow removal. The City of Issaquah has created a map of snow plowing priorities based on three levels. Highlands Drive and NE Park Drive are given Priority 1 while major streets throughout the Highlands are given Priority 3. Because many of our interior streets are narrow and often have cars parked on both sides of the street, this makes it difficult for the larger plowing trucks to safely clear our streets.

December Landscape and Irrigation Update

by Lyle Dickey, IHCA Landscape Manager

There are 5700 trees and 36 different varieties of trees present in the Highlands; a variety of pines, dogwoods and 7 different types of maples! With leaf cleanup mostly complete, crews and contractors will be doing tree pruning. The trees in the Highlands are beginning to reach maturity in several areas and will need to be pruned to control the growth pattern of the tree canopy. This type of pruning will be done on a rotational basis and when completed the trees will have form and be easier to maintain. The rotation of this pruning may be three or four years apart depending on variety and location of the trees in the streetscape. Once complete, the trees will be far easier to maintain and be in much better health. They each require different types of care to look their best and be beautiful for years to come.

We will also be finishing up tree replacements and installing bark in several common area landscapes throughout the community. This work will be done barring snow events or inclement weather. I am proud of our in house staff, contractors and the behind-the-scenes people getting all of this accomplished in the allotted time (and making it all look easy and seamless) to keep the Highlands looking its best!

The irrigation crew will be installing or upgrading drainage systems in the common areas throughout the community; some system upgrades or replacing components that have reached their useful life and need to be replaced to keep the systems functioning properly. The systems as a whole are in good shape, but regular maintenance and upgrades are essential to keep the systems working as long as possible. This should keep the irrigation crew busy until spring and then they will return to their regular repair and maintenance schedule.

The crew appreciates your kind words when working out in the field. Your support keeps them enthusiastic and grateful to be working in Issaquah Highlands.

Did you know the City of Issaquah has a Snow Plow Tracker? The City’s Snow Route Status Map tracks the progress of snow plowing and/or sanding operations in the City of Issaquah. There are three views of the map available showing plowing status for the entire winter event, the last 24-hours, and the last six hours. The map initially shows only city streets in gray scale. As streets are plowed color is added to the map showing the route completed, the latest complete time and the total number of times the route was plowed and/or sanded. Colors differ by route area and all routes within an area are the same color.

Although City of Issaquah owned, the City does not remove snow from the sidewalks. Snow removal is the responsibility of the property owner. Ice melt products may be used but follow the directions on the packaging as some brands can damage plants, grass and concrete when over applied.

And remember to check road conditions at IssaquahHighlands.com. You can find the link to community and city webcams on the homepage.

With the snow comes new activities for our neighborhood children. Please make sure that when sledding in parks to stay away from trees and play structures to avoid injury. Streets and sidewalks are not considered safe for sledding. Most importantly, stay safe and enjoy the peace and beauty that comes with a winter wonderland.

Giant Vacuum Purchased by the IHCA Thanks to the support of the IHCA Board of Directors we purchased a leaf vacuum and dump-bed for our IHCA-owned Ford F350 pickup truck. This resulted in a savings of $3,000 in leaf dumping fees and efficiency improvements, gaining 2 to 3 days of labor for the crew per week!

IHCA Holiday Office Schedule Closed for: • Christmas Holiday Monday, December 26th and Tuesday, December 26th • New Year’s Day Holiday Monday, January 1st

ARC Tip of the Month: Did you know… Outdoor recreational fires are allowed only in professionally manufactured firepits and/or installed natural gas or propane fire pits or fireplaces. Of course, they need ARC approval prior to installation. Any other burning is prohibited.

Please be respectful of your neighbors and try not to send smoke their way.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2017 •

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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION NORTH POLE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION c/o Mr. B.A. Humbug, Covenant Compliance Department Glacial Management Company COURTESY LETTER Dear Mr. Claus, We are instructed by the Board of Directors to inform you of the following violations: Covenant Violation Descriptions: Your sleigh is a recreational vehicle, which is prohibited by the covenants. When we told you to move it from your yard, we did not intend for you to place it on your roof. Please remove it from your premises.

Red and green colors on your house clash with the common scheme of the neighborhood. You must choose approved colors from our color book and submit an application for repainting to the Architectural Review Committee.

You are feeding wild animals which are diseased.

The sickest is the one with the shiny red nose. Some would even say it glows. You must discontinue this practice immediately, or we will call animal control.

We are concerned that the glowing nose may be the result of radioactive waste, so we demand that you allow a health inspector access to your yard.

You are storing toys and games in a huge canvas sack in your yard. Be advised that all outdoor storage must be approved by the Architectural Review Committee, and must be of the same style and finish as your house.

It appears that you are operating a day care center and/or workshop in violation of the covenants. Through the fence we hear the sound of laughing, playing games, and shouting out with glee. There are numerous small persons on your property and the clatter and activity is disruptive.

The amount of mail you are receiving exceeds what will fit in your ARC approved mailbox, so you must make arrangements with the Postal Service for alternate delivery at a post office box or a business address.

You have made unauthorized modifications to your home which allow you to enter and exit through the chimney. You must submit an ARC application for your new entry, including evidence that it meets all state and local codes and is in harmony with other homes. If your application is disapproved, you will be required to restore the chimney to its prior condition.

You have been observed making a list and checking it twice, finding out who is naughty or nice. Be advised you have no authority to do that and it is divisive. It is the function of the Covenant Compliance Department to determine who is naughty or nice.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding in complying with this letter. If you do not comply within ten days, we will refer these violations to our attorney.

Respectfully, North Pole Homeowners Association

By Victoria Laney Copyright Victoria Laney, 2006. All rights reserved.

Published DECEMBER 17, 2006

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• December 2017

Issaquah Highlands Connections

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS Kids & Families

Club Inclusive

Thursday, December 14th, 6pm Blakely Hall December: Giving Back

A club for kids with special needs focused on acceptance and inclusion. A safe and fun place where kids can be themselves.

Contact Alicia Spinner at alispinner@yahoo.com. Also see facebook.com/ClubInclusiveBlakeyHall/

Open Mic

Friday, December 22nd Blakely Hall

For more info, contact: Dino Go at kabalen.geo@gmail.com.

Photography Club

Returns January 20th, 2018 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

Library-2-Go

Poker Night

The King County Library will bring the Library-2-Go Book Mobile to Blakely Hall. You bring the family and your library card and peruse the curated collection of books. Checkout your favorites! A FREE, fun, afterschool activity for all ages. The Book Mobile will return to Blakely Hall on January 30th, 2018.

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.

December 5th, 3:30pm-4:30pm Blakely Hall

Minecraft Mania

Tuesday, December 12th only, 5pm Blakely Hall

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

Toddler Playgroup

Wednesday, December 13th 10am Cancelled December 6th, 20th & 27th Returns to Weekly on January 3rd, 2018 Blakely Hall Newborn to Age 4

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

Arts & Cards Art in Blakely Hall

New Show: Anything Goes!

Showing through January 16th, 8am - 5pm Blakely Hall

Anything Goes! showcases artEAST member artists to display a broad range of work from some of their mostestablished and emerging artists. Artist and guest curator, June Sekiguchi, will be our guest of honor at the artists reception. She will select three pieces of work to highlight and discuss. For more information, please see page 25.

Bridge Club

Monday, December 4th, 7pm Blakely Hall

Grab a partner or come solo to play a little Bridge! Bring your own beverage of choice and a snack to share. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned bridge player, you are welcome to join us. RSVP: Ed Tellman, etellman@pobox. com or Andrew Shanafelt, shanafelta@issaquah.wednet.edu.

Knit for Life®

Every Monday, 1pm Cancelled December 25th & January 1st, 2018 Swedish Medical Center, Main Lobby

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

Returns January 25th, 2018 Blakely Hall

Rovin’ Fiddlers

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

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

Yarns & Threads Group Every Friday, 9am Blakely Hall

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

World Cultures Chinese Heritage Club Resumes January 20th, 2018 Blakely Hall

India Culture Club

Returns February 11th, 2018 Blakely Hall

Come, learn about beautiful India! This club highlights India’s arts, culture and festivals and is open to all who want to explore and learn about India. Topics may include preparing for a strip to India, basic overview of languages, places to visit, arts and cultural landmarks, etc. Let’s celebrate and share the cultural riches of India together!

Contact: culturalclubindia@gmail.com

Latino Club

Sunday, January 7th, 4pm No December Meeting Blakely Hall

Join us as celebrate the end of the holiday season by gathering together with family and friends to celebrate King’s Day! We will have traditional Kings’ bread to share and Lotería to play (similar to Bingo)! Activities for kids, adults and seniors. The Latino Club welcomes everyone who would like to celebrate and learn about Latino traditions.

Dinner is potluck (food might not have been prepared in a commercial kitchen. Enjoy at your own risk.) For questions, contact Alicia Spinner: alispinner@yahoo.com. RSVP required online (coming soon!)

For the latest details, see IssaquahHighlands.com/events

Travel Club Night

Thursday, December 7th, 6pm Blakely Hall Holiday Open House: Bonjour!

TOPIC: France

You are cordially invited to Travel Club’s Holiday Party.

This year we’re celebrating France! Have a great time socializing with your travel-minded neighbors. We will also be featuring great information about these regions of France: Champagne, Alsace, Bordeaux, Pyrenees and of course, Paris! And sample delicious food and drink from France.

Please come and bring an appetizer, dessert or beverage to share and feel free to wear your beret!! Adults only please.

Donations accepted.

Join us facebook.com/issaquahhighlandstravelclub.

Fitness Taichi Fitness Club Every Wednesday, 6:45am Blakely Hall

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

Hatha Yoga Classes Saturday Returns January 6th, 2018 Blakely Hall

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

Meditation Group

Every Friday, 2pm Cancelled December 22nd & 29th Blakley Hall

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

Questions? Contact ih.meditation@gmail.com or 425-785-9681

Running Club

Every Saturday, 8am Central Park Tennis Courts

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

Yami Yoga Classes Sunday Every Sunday, 7:45am Blakely Hall

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

Zumba Fitness® Classes Resumes in January, 2018 Blakely Hall

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

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2017 •

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS Special Interest Book Club

Location & Dates vary

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

Entrepreneur Club

Returns January 14th, 2018 Blakely Hall

Are you a small business owner or an entrepreneur looking to kick off a business idea? This is an opportunity for IH entrepreneurs to gather and be a resource for each other. Join us to meet like-minded entrepreneurs, learn about what’s working for others and bounce ideas for feedback. Here’s a chance to extend your network of support. For more information, contact: Johnathan Chu johnnychu@outlook.com

Ladies Lunch Bunch

Thursday, December 14th, 11am Blakely Hall Potluck Style; Adults Only

Good friends. Good food. Good times! Looking for an opportunity to meet new neighbors and make new friends?

You’re invited to join our ladies’ potluck lunch group. We hope you can join us! Please bring an appetizer or salad to share along with an appetite and a sense of humor. (Food shared is not prepared in commercial kitchens. Consume at your own risk.) Contact Melissa melissadwatts@yahoo.com

Meaningful Movies

Returns January 24th, 2018 Blakely Hall

Meaningful Movies brings the greater Issaquah community together through education and advocacy, using the power of social justice documentary films and discussion. For more information, see meaningfulmovies.org/.

Toastmasters Club

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

Join us to improve your communication skills.

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

Wine Club

Friday, December 8th, 7pm 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.

Don’t Miss This!

Governance Mtgs

Santa Paws - Pet Photos

IHCA Architectural Review Committee

December 2nd, 6th, 12th & 20th Grand Ridge Plaza

Tuesday, 12/5, 6pm IHCA Office

Sensory Sensitive Santa Photos

IHCA Finance Committee

Storytime with Mrs. Claus

Highlands Fiber Network Advisory Group

Menorah Lighting

Highlands Council Board of Trustees Meeting

Chanukah Celebration

IHCA Board of Directors Meeting

December 4th, 11th, 16th & 18th, 8-10am Grand Ridge Plaza Wednesday, December 6th, 10am Soma Intimates, Grand Ridge Plaza

Tuesday, 12/19, Noon, Blakely Hall

Wednesday, December 13th, 6:00pm Blakely Hall

Wednesday, 12/20, 5:30pm, IHCA Office Meetings are subject to change.

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

Christmas Eve Services Sunday, December 24th, 5:00pm Blakely Hall

City Meetings

** See more on page 4 Holidays in the Highlands

End of Development Agreement City Council

Save the Date

Monday, December 4th, 7pm City Council Chambers

Boy Scout Annual Holiday Tree Recycling Drive

For City of Issaquah governance meetings, see http://issaquahwa.gov and Issaquah City News in this issue.

The Boy Scouts of America on the Sammamish Plateau will collect trees for recycling after the holidays. Support your local troops and help the environment by leaving your live tree (no artificial trees, tinsel or frocking please) at the curb by 9 AM the first Saturday in January. A donation of $25 is suggested, attach an envelope with check to tree. Please check for any stray ornaments left over from the festivities.

Later that day the industrious scouts will whisk your tree to the recycler for proper mulching.

Traffic & Pedestrian Safety Meeting

Wednesday, January 17th, 7pm Blakely Hall

The City of Issaquah, Highlands Council and the IHCA invite you to a follow up meeting about traffic and pedestrian safety. More details coming soon.

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

Wednesday, 12/13, 5pm, IHCA Office

Tuesday, December 12th, 6:30pm - 8pm Grand Ridge Plaza near Ulta Beauty

Saturday, January 6th, 2018 Community-Wide

Holidays Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday Friday, December 1st

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Thursday, December 7th

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Tuesday, December 12th

Chanukah (First Day) Wednesday, December 13th

Winter Solstice

Thursday, December 21st

NEW! Women in STEM

Christmas

Meet others in the community who work in the STEM fields and share your love of science, tech and learning new things.

Club format: discussion group. Bring your favorite recent STEM-related news article or research study to discuss, or present your latest data analysis project, Arduino project, or other shameless amateur or professional geekery.

Contact: Tonya Lane at radiazen@gmail.com

Kwanzaa

For daily updates, follow us on:

IHCA Office, Blakely Hall, Highlands Council and HFN Offices will be closed December 25-26 for the Christmas Holiday January 1, 2018 New Year’s Day

Friday, December 8th, 7pm Blakely Hall

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

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Monday, December 25th Tuesday, December 26th (to Jan. 1st)

New Year’s Day Sunday, January 1st

Office Holiday Closures

*All Events are FREE unless otherwise noted.

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• December 2017

Issaquah Highlands Connections

COMMUNITY GIVING

What Brings Us Comfort and Joy?

by Carol Halas, Dahlia Park

“Oh, tidings of comfort and joy”. It would be wonderful if these words could be shared all year long and not only at this time of year. Often it is challenging for families to make ends meet so it is difficult for them to experience comfort and joy. Did you know that 30% of the low-income housing in Issaquah is located here in the Highlands? That translates to about 350 low income units within our community. Affordable housing is here for those making 30-80 percent of the King County median income. The median income is $96K per year for a household of four (Redfin recommends a price cap of $315K for this income level).

A top priority for the City of Issaquah is ensuring affordable housing for its residents.

Individuals or families may be struggling just to “get by” along with unexpected medical bills, job loss, car trouble or possibly missing work to stay home with a sick child. Getting help with On a cold day in early November, this client came to ICS for help expenses would be a big relief with his electric bill. The ICS Volunteer is Lee McCullough. and greatly contribute to their comfort and joy during the holidays and throughout the year. I volunteer with Issaquah Community Services (ICS) so I can help a few people this way. ICS is a non-profit organization that provides assistance in paying bills and providing folks in need with some peace of mind.

What brings us comfort and joy? The beautiful white lights decorating Park Drive at Christmas time. That brings me joy. Maybe its lighting the menorah for Hanukkah or decorating your home with the symbols of Kwanzaa that brings warmth and contentment.

Getting together with loved ones to pray and celebrate Milad un Nabi may be something that brings you happiness. Such a variety of holidays are celebrated in the Highlands this time of year. When many of us think of the holiday season, the idea of giving comes naturally. There is nothing like the warm, comforting feeling of giving a gift that is wanted or needed.

What we may not think about during this time of year are the individuals and families living in our community who are struggling to survive and cannot even think about things they might want. Crucial is getting rent paid, keeping the electricity on and having food on the table. Comfort and joy for them might be knowing they are safe and sound in their home.

I hope you will consider Issaquah Community Services in your giving this year. Help us support our neighbors in need. The holiday season is our annual fund-raising event called Merry Christmas Issaquah and Sammamish. How to help: Make a tax-deductible donation to Issaquah Community Services P.O. Box 669, Issaquah 98027 or donate directly at their website through Pay Pal at issaquahcommunityservices.org. Call ICS at 425-837-3125 for more information.. The organization is a registered 501 (c)(3) nonprofit.

GRAND OPENING It's finally here! Come celebrate our Grand Opening with us!

December 16-17, 2017 Saturday l 0am-9pm Sunday l 2pm-5pm 1836 25th Ave. NE, Issaquah, WA 98029 (Next to leek's - on 25th Ave NE) •

Stop by during our grand opening for a free Grand Opening Candy Treat!

•

10% off everything during our Grand Opening weekend! www.candymache.com

For the latest news - follow us on Facebook Specialty Bulk Bin Candy• Shaved Ice• Seasonal Treats• Cool Candy Art Gingerbread House Supplies (kits & accessories)• Hostess & Teacher Gifts Stocking Stuffers• Candy Themed Books, Games & Puzzles “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” ― Winston S. Churchill Carol Halas has volunteered at Issaquah Community Services since October 2014. She was drawn to ICS because community outreach has always been important to her.

The map below shows where designated affordable housing is located in Issaquah Highlands.

Provided by ARCH.

Affordable Housing Location Guide in Issaquah Highlands

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2017 •

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DOING BUSINESS

Candy Mache & 9Round Fitness to Open in December Two new businesses open in Issaquah Highlands in December. Let’s all stop in and give them an Issaquah Highlands welcome!

Candy Mache 1836 25th Ave NE On 25th Ave NE near Park Drive Grand Opening! December 16-17, 2017

9Round Fitness 1012 Park Drive NE On Park Drive just east of 10th Ave NE Opening Mid-December

Brenda Zylstra, the founder and creator of Candy Mâché, invites all of us to meet her at the Grand Opening of her new store/gallery on 25th, next door to Zeeks. She has spent eight years working towards this occasion, creating candy art, entering her works to competitions nation-wide and dreaming of combining her passions into a candy art gallery. Brenda has been working hard since last spring to transform a loft style shop in Starpoint into a candy art gallery. Candy art and 200 different kinds of candy for sale in bulk bins – now that’s what it means to be a kid in a candy store!

Truong Luu, an Issaquah High School alum, is opening a new fitness facility where the Subway used to be on Park Drive, near 10th. 9Round combines boxing and kickboxing circuit training where you can start your workout at any time; there are no reservations or class times. A qualified trainer gets you started. Luu is partnering with wife Effie on the business venture. They expect to open mid-December.

Brenda Zylstra, creator and owner of Candy Mâché, opening this fall on 25th Ave NE, just south of Zeeks.

Truong Luu with wife Effie outside their new business venture, 9Round. Photo Credit: Shubha Tirumale

LIVING GREEN Embrace the Living Green Mantra: Join the Community Garden Did you know Issaquah Highlands has community gardens? There are 140 individual garden patch spaces, over two locations; two sets of patches at the Vista Gardens and two sets of patches in the Sunset Walk neighborhood. These patches are governed by Highlands Council and managed by a Community Garden Committee made up of resident community gardeners.

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

Community gardening is challenging but fun. You learn to grow your own produce, teach your children where food really comes from, and share ideas and harvest with fellow gardeners. Gardening seminars and work parties happen throughout the year to provide opportunities to improve your growing skills.

Patch sharing is permissible between two or more gardeners.

Sunset Walk Gardens The Sunset Walk patches are located off Park Drive, across from Fire Station 73 in the Sunset Walk neighborhood. These raised patches are smaller than the Vista garden beds and the newest additions to the community. The Sunset Walk patches lease for $75 per year.

Vista Patches Resident gardeners built the Vista Gardens by hand, 10 years ago. These 61 patches are located along the paved path between Park Drive at Trail Head Vista and Natalie Way (near Bark Park), just below Black Nugget Park, under the power lines. These rustic beds are larger than the Sunset Walk patches.

Current patch holders, in good standing with the Community Garden Committee, and who have met their volunteer service hour requirement, may renew their patch each year. The garden renewal season begins on January 1, 2018. All patches not renewed will be offered to residents on the waiting list in the order they were placed on the list beginning February 1, 2018.

For more information on the Issaquah Highlands Community Garden Program or to add your name to the waitlist visit: issaquahhighlands.com/community-garden . Questions? Contact Christy Garrard, Executive Director for Highlands Council at 425-507-1110 or Christy.G@IHCouncil.org

Even in the depths of winter, imagine yourself gardening with your neighbors at one of our Community Gardens. Pictured here is Vista Patches.

It might seem too cold now, but gardening season begins with signing up for your patch in January. PC: Tim Dold

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• December 2017

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2017 •

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Curator Magic at Blakely Hall

by Susie Sharp, The Brownstones

(Left) Anna MacCrae applies her artistic skills to curating and hanging the artEAST shows in Blakely Hall. (Right) Art curator for artEAST, Anna McCrae, poses with two of the exhibiting artists in “Anything Goes,” Maggie Greenway (left) and Julie Bazuzi (right).

The well-being of this community through life-long learning and appreciation of the arts and culture was key in creating Blakely Hall in 2005. This community center is in the heart of the Highlands, built by Port Blakely Communities (master developer) and designed to be a focal point for Issaquah Highlands, a communal place where residents could pursue arts and culture close to home.

Blakely Hall serves our community as a gateway to the arts as a gallery for artEAST. artEAST is based in downtown Issaquah, with a gallery on Front Street. Blakely Hall partners with artEAST to offer six art shows in our Great Hall each year. The shows are free to view during business hours and are promoted by Highlands Council. Each show also hosts a reception where you can meet the artists themselves and learn about how their work came into being. To put together a show for Blakely Hall requires a balance of artistic appreciation and planning.

Behind each art exhibit is a curator bringing it to life.

For Blakely Hall, that curator is Anna MacCrae. She is both an artist and the Exhibition Manager for artEAST. Anna graciously met me for coffee to explain how an art show comes into being. Each exhibition has an approximately fourmonth cycle and Anna is involved throughout the process: from the planning and selection stages to the actual hanging of the artwork.

Anna is an abstract artist and specializes in oils. Artists run in her family. I was intrigued to learn that she is a thirdgeneration artist who is originally from England. In fact, her work was recently selected for an upcoming art show at the Seattle Art Museum (see annamacrae.com/events). Her fascination with the arts has developed over the years into her role of curator at a number of art shows in the region.

She has always been fascinated with how things work. Her artistic background, coupled with her engineering skills, enable her to balance the variety of challenges peculiar to the role of curator.

The current exhibition at Blakely Hall is an artEAST members show called “Anything Goes”. When you walk into the hall to view the work of talented artists, it is thoughtprovoking to consider what brings an art show into being, the creative process. I found it fascinating to learn about the work behind the scenes. For instance, for the current show, there was an open call to artEAST members. Many artists applied. Then Anna had the difficult task of selecting which artists’ work to exhibit based on the subject, medium and size of the piece. She is also very aware of the importance of the audience.

Not surprisingly, many families visit the art shows at Blakely Hall and thus each show must have a broad appeal. What is surprising is the time frame allocated to select art for such a demanding audience. Despite the variety of work presented, Anna stated that she often has made all the necessary decisions within the week. Once the art has been selected and the artists informed, Anna must start planning the arrangement of the art so that the show is cohesive, grouping the pieces in a way to elevate the individual creations.

A curator must have knowledge and a passion for art but also a logical and business-like mind to showcase the artwork and to inspire the viewer. What makes the Blakely Hall exhibitions special is that there is often an opportunity to meet with the artists and to learn about their personal artistic journeys. Furthermore, the art is usually for sale. This is the perfect opportunity to purchase a unique holiday gift.

It is Anna’s hope that people will be both educated and inspired, even challenged by the art on display. If Blakely Hall is the community center and the heart of the Highlands, then surely art and culture represent its spirit.

“Anything Goes” runs through January 16th, Monday-Friday, 8am – 5pm at Blakely Hall.

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• December 2017

ISSAQUAH CITY NEWS

Santa’s Backup: Police Start Holiday Patrols

With the holidays around the corner, don’t end up on the naughty list this season.

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

They’re also out to caution shoppers if their vehicles and valuables are left too susceptible to prowlers and other Scrooges.

City of Issaquah Police officers and Santa team up to keep your valuables safe this year.

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

• Lock your vehicle every time you leave, even for a short time.

• Don’t leave valuable items in plain view.

• Don’t leave your vehicle running unattended.

• If you place items in the trunk, do it discreetly or before you arrive at your destination.

• If you see somebody acting suspicious or looking into vehicles, call police at 425-837-3200.

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

Plan Ahead: Holiday Closures Mark your calendars! City offices will be closed the following dates: • Dec. 25-26 – Christmas • January 1 – New Year’s Day In case of emergency, please contact police at 911 or the non-emergency line at 425-837-3200.

Thank you, and have a safe and fun holiday season!

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

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

December 2017 •

21

HIGHLANDS FIBER NETWORK Is Your Computer Secure?

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

Back in 1988, the Association for Computer Security decided to raise awareness concerning computer security issues. As society uses multiple devices to stay informed, collaborate, and share, it’s important that we take the steps to be secure in an ever-changing world.

Electronic devices such as smart phones, tablets, laptops, and computers make up an important component in our everyday lives that utilize the Highlands Fiber Network. In order to keep your devices protected, it’s only fitting that we pass along a few important tips– in a fun way!

(See answers in the key at the end of the column.)

1. What should be included in making a strong password?

Last month’s photo was taken in the playground area of Ashland Park, right near one of the 8 Little Free Libraries located throughout the neighborhood. The summer of 2016 saw a renovation of the park as the poles were repainted and small repairs were made to the concrete stream. Read more about the park and its history here: https://www. issaquahhighlands.com/ashland-park-how-issaquahhighlands-began

A. Use special characters, make it long, make it complex.

B. Use generic phrases or number combinations.

C. Make it long, Make it complex and never use special characters.

D. Use the name of pet’s/family/friends/co-workers. Don’t make it complex.

2. Where should you store your password?

A. Saved onto your computer.

B. Written down on paper and stored somewhere safe.

C. Written down on paper, next to your computer.

D. None of these apply.

3. What is the minimum amount of characters for a password?

A. More than 12 characters long.

B. At least 15 characters long.

C. At least 8 characters long.

D. No minimum length of characters.

4. Can I use the same password on multiple sites?

A. No. B. Yes. 5. Are anti-virus software programs too expensive to use?

Correct guesses were submitted by: Flavia Albuquerque Kuldip Singh Dawn Noland Gretchen Simakov

Charles Short Uma Coppa Vaanya S Chauhan

Thanks to everyone who participated!

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

A. False, there are free and paid anti-virus software programs to utilize. AVG and Microsoft both have effective programs.

B. True, anti-virus programs lock you into expensive month-to-month subscriptions.

C. Only the paid anti-virus programs are effective.

D. None of the above.

6. How important is a firewall protection on your computer?

A. Protects your computer from attacks by worms.

B. Protects your computer from losing all its files.

C. Protects your computer from being attacked over the Internet, by hackers, and viruses.

D. Both A and C apply.

7. What files should not be backed up?

A. Program Files, Data Settings, Personal Documents.

B. Windows Directory and Program Files.

C. Music, Photos, Videos or Personal Documents.

D. Email Settings, and Windows Directory.

8. What back up services should I use?

A. Only a hard drive should be used to back up files.

B. Hard Drive, Cloud Storage are the only options to back up files.

C. Hard Drive, Online backup services, Cloud Storage, and File-Synchronization services all help to back up your files.

D. None of the above.

9. Can enabling filters in email settings help with Spam?

If you think you have the answer, please email it to IHPhotoHunt@gmail.com along with your full name. Please be as specific as possible when emailing your response. Responses will be accepted until December 12th. Those with the correct answer will see their name published in next month’s issue of Connections, as well as have their name entered into a drawing for a $25 gift certificate to Ben and Jerry’s. Everyone who responds with a correct guess will be entered to win. Every correct guess is an entry!

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

A. Yes, and in combination with changing the email you use for online purchases.

B. No, nothing helps guard against spam.

10. You don’t need to install an anti-spyware program; don’t computer devices do this automatically?

A. No need to install and maintain an anti-spyware program, your device does this automatically.

B. You will need to install and maintain an anti-spyware program on your device.

C. All devices have anti-spyware programs, just activate it in your settings.

D. None of the above.

Highlands Fiber Network Customer Service can help you get the most out of your Network. We are available 24/7 at 425-427-0999, highlandsfibernetwork.com or support@hfnservices.com.

Answers to the quiz: 1.A 2.B 3.C 4.A 5.A 6.D

7.B 8.C 9.A 10.B

Fiber to the home, community owned!

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• December 2017

FITNESS & HEALTH

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Do I Need Vitamin D?

by Dr. Naomi Bryant, NaturoMedica

Vitamin D is not a vitamin but a powerful hormone that our skin manufactures when exposed to sunlight. It is becoming more apparent that this sunshine hormone is essential for optimal health.

Recent research has shown that adequate vitamin D levels can help prevent cancer, osteoporosis and diabetes. It also strengthens the immune system to fight off infections. If you spend most days indoors and most of your winters in the cloudy Northwest, you are wise to be concerned about your vitamin D level.

Low vitamin D levels are more common than previously thought. A study published in a popular medical journal found that 41% of adults age 49 to 83 were vitamin D deficient. The risk of developing a vitamin D deficiency is even greater in the Northwest. The UVB rays from the sun during the winter months are not strong enough to stimulate the skin’s vitamin D production. Additionally, the use of sunscreen during the summer months blocks the production of vitamin D by 98%. It is little wonder why vitamin D deficiency is becoming so common that some are considering it an epidemic.

Unfortunately, the medical community has yet to recognize a universal list of symptoms for vitamin

D deficiency. I find, however, that patients low in vitamin D often experience greater amounts of depression, joint and muscle pain, fatigue, bone loss, high blood pressure and blood sugar problems.

The only way to determine whether a person has adequate levels of vitamin D is by measuring the circulating blood levels of the hormone through a blood test.

In general, the amount of vitamin D found in a typical multivitamin is not enough to maintain optimal blood levels for those in the northern United States. I find that most of my patients require at least 1000 IU of vitamin D to maintain adequate blood levels and often require even higher doses when they are deficient. As a dose comparison, a cup of milk, which is considered a vitamin D rich food, only contains 100 IU of vitamin D. During the summer months, 20 minutes of sun exposure without sunscreen can help naturally boost vitamin D levels.

I suggest you ask your doctor to check your vitamin D levels yearly as part of an annual exam.

A physician well-versed in nutritional research can recommend the dose of vitamin D needed for your optimal health.

Good sources of dietary vitamin D (the sunshine vitamin), such as milk, may not be enough in the cloudy Northwest.

Does Highschool Ever End?

by Marlie Cross, Issaquah Highlands resident

Whenever someone is behaving unfairly we often say, “I thought high school was over!” But it just so happens that humans are humans, and even as we grow older, we are still creatures of habit. This means that sometimes we exclude people, which creates the terrible clique effect we attribute to our younger days.

While we are deep in the holiday season now, rather than writing my usual fitness or health column, I was inspired to bring a whole health column, one about community and unity.

About those grown-up cliques… it doesn’t have to be that way. Many people focus on how to get included, but I think what’s more important is to make sure that we are the ones being inclusive. Let’s not leave people out of the social circles we develop as we grow as a community.

After moving here last summer, it has become clear to me that Issaquah wants to build a community that fosters inclusion, and allows for people from all backgrounds to feel comfortable to join the party. Here are my suggestions to help ensure we are building a welcoming environment for ourselves, our kids, and our neighbors:

1. Say Hello: It all starts with acknowledgement. Just letting people know that you see them sets a positive tone. From walking the dog, playing in the park, or joining in on one of the Highlands community events, start off by letting people know you are glad that they are here.

2. Extend an Invite: Our public areas and community groups are for everyone to enjoy, so help make sure they are fun for all by extending an invitation. If you see people on their own, ask them to join your group on a walk, your dog in the dog park, or your kids on the playground. You know they are interested because they are already doing the activity- it’s always more fun together.

3. Have Patience: Sometimes when new people join your group it can feel like you slow down and the change in dynamic can feel frustrating. While accommodations might need to be made, remember what is it like to be the new person and give them time.

Eventually, you will find commonalities and they will bring value to the group. You will soon forget they were ever new.

4. Acceptance of Bad Apples: The reality is despite our best efforts, sometimes we end up having to spend time with people who are not contributing to the group in the right way. We must still must find a way to interact and get back on track. Don’t be afraid to speak up in a respectful way to set boundaries of acceptance. If you’re in a yoga class or a community group, speak with the instructor so they can help facilitate a resolution.

Neighbors? You can let them know you respect their position but there are a few things that need to change to make things enjoyable to all of you.

Keeping these things in mind, I am excited to expand our community of unity and to head into another great holiday season in the Highlands!

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Kari is on vacation this month. Please enjoy some of her best questions from previous columns: Dear Kari, My mother died this past year and my grief is immense. I loved her very much; she was my best friend and confidant. I feel like only my siblings understand my loss. My friends try to help support me, but I can tell that I bore them whenever I begin talking about missing my mother. My husband also tries to console me, but it is just not enough. When will it get better?

How can I make it through my first holiday season without her?

- Devastated Daughter Dear Devastated Daughter, I am sorry for your loss. Your mother sounds like she was lovely. Since your grief is still very strong, I would suggest that you either join a local grief support group (look at your local hospitals for this resource) or seek additional support from a therapist who specializes in grief and loss. Grief typically goes through five stages (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance). For people who experience a loss, it is not uncommon to move forward and then slightly back. All reactions are normal as the human heart feels grief differently sometimes. Be grateful for the support of the family and friends that you have received. But now is the time for you to recognize that you may benefit from professional support also in order to best move your life forward. It will get better. You will slowly be able to return to your normal activities, but you may always wish you had another chance to see your mother and touch her in the flesh. This desire tells us whom we really loved in our lifetimes, who mattered to us. I wish you peace. And remember, don’t be afraid to freely talk about her during the holiday season, especially when sharing stories or family traditions, as doing so allows your heart to breathe.

-Kari Dear Kari, I am struggling with talking to my child. My son is 17 years old and he is beginning to not care about school or his sports. He was always a sweet boy, but now he will barely speak to me. His moods are very unpredictable and I am wondering if he is using drugs. How can I get him to talk to me and tell me what is going on?

- Helpless Mom Dear Helpless Mom, First, I would choose good timing, when no one is tired or rushed, to sit with him and warmly check in with him. Let your son know your concerns about his lack of interest in things that used to matter to him and inquire if there is anything he wants to share with you. Listen to him; he will most likely give you some clues as to what he is feeling. Let him know that you love him and can help him in any way that he needs. Depending on how the conversation goes, ask him if he knows of any kids at school who use drugs, whether he has ever been offered drugs, and does he use them now. Most of all, use your intuition. Pay attention to what he says and doesn’t say. Lots of times our children give us the clues we need if we take the time to pause and connect.

-Kari

December 2017 •

ASK KARI

Dear Kari, My sister is gay and has a partner that she lives with. I love her, she’s my sister, but I don’t condone her lifestyle and I do not want to include her partner in events with my family. There is nothing wrong with her partner; I just don’t want my children to see that type of lifestyle.

Now my sister won’t talk to me until I start inviting both she and her partner to activities with my family. She is the only sibling I have; my wife thinks I should give in to my sister’s demands for the sake of family harmony. What do you think?

- Pressured by Family Dear Pressured by Family, I understand that you have strong feelings about your sister being in a relationship with a female partner. But love is love; the love you have for your sister is pure human love, as is the love that your sister has for her partner. It is hard enough to find someone who connects with us, loves us, and carries our heart carefully in this lifetime; the sexual orientation of that person is only part of the puzzle of what draws us to someone. Being gay is not a choice, it is simply who one is, just like being right or left-handed. Our societal norms embed heterosexuality into us from birth; to go against that path is typically only done after coming to the conclusion that one does not fit into that mold. Don’t miss out on being part of your sister’s life, all parts of her life. Invite her and her partner over. You might just find out that you all have more in common as couples in committed relationships than you think. The bonus is that your children see you accepting and loving someone who is not exactly like you, making all your lives richer.

-Kari

Do you have a question for Kari?

We love to hear from our readers. Please email your Ask Kari questions to askkarioneill@gmail. com. All questions will be answered in upcoming columns. All personal information will remain confidential and not be published.

Kari O’Neill, MSW, LICSW, is a licensed independent clinical social worker and a resident of Issaquah Highlands.

This column is for entertainment purposes only.

If you are in crisis and in need of support please contact the Crisis Clinic at 866-427-4747.

BLAKELY HALL ART GALLERY

artEAST Show: Anything Goes! Continues

Continues through January 16th | 8am - 5pm, Blakely Hall | Issaquah Highlands Each year artEAST curates this show to bring a broad range of artistic styles and mediums from member artists. The subject matter is wide open to attract a broad range of work from some of our most-established and emerging artists.

With the variety of media and size, so too comes a variety in pricing. Prices start at $100 and range on up to $2,500. Stop by Blakely Hall and do some Christmas shopping.

Artists include Victoria Raymond, Gail Baker, Maggie Greenway, Jan Tervonen, Beverly Hanson, Carrie Schmitt, Julie Bazuzi, Wanda Hickman, Priyanka Parmanand, Janice King and Rohini Mathur.

The popular artEAST exhibit at Blakely Hall features affordable art, just in time for holiday gift giving.

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• December 2017

Issaquah Highlands Connections

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT Issaquah School District

Grand Ridge Elementary

12/4 12/6 - 7 12/13 12/21 - 1/2

12/1 12/1 12/4 - 8 12/12 12/13 12/13 12/15

issaquah.wednet.edu

Special Service Parent ED Night: IEP MTGS Elementary Conferences, No Elementary School School Board Meeting Winter Break, No School

Issaquah School Foundation

isfdn.org 12/6

Dining for Kids @ Chinoise

Challenger Elementary challengerpta.org 12/1

Popcorn Friday

DECEMBER EVENTS

Clark Elementary

clarkpta.org 12/13 12/15 12/15

Market Day Dads at Recess Gingerbread House Night and Auction

Endeavour Elementary endeavourptsa.org

12/1 12/5 - 7 12/6 12/13 12/14

Popcorn Friday PTA Book Fair and Kids’ Corner Endeavour Singers Concert Singers’ Concert Kind Kids Meeting

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

Issaquah Highlands National Merit Semi-Finalists

Two Issaquah Highlands IHS students have been named SemiFinalists in the 2018 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Congratulations to Abigail Heyrich and Maria Kiesewetter.

The National Merit Scholarship Program honors overall academic excellence and achievement, with over 1.5 million applicants, each year.

IH PTSA Fall ACT/SAT College Prep Classes Issaquah High PTSA is partnering with Huntington Learning Center and Kaplan Test Prep to offer college practice exam options at IHS to help students study smarter and gain confidence. $25 per exam, with opportunities for multiple tests. Testing dates: 12/2/17, 2/3/18, 5/19/18. Tests begin promptly at 9:00 AM, ending at 1:00 PM. For more information, Sign-up soon! Space is limited, and classes are starting. Don’t miss out on the IH PTSA’s discounted testing series.

For more information, and to register, www.IssaquahHighPTSA.org.

Build Community, Enrich Your Life, Honor Volunteer Service

Issaquah High PTSA and College and Career Center are proud of all the great work IHS students do to serve their communities. To honor that service, each year, students who accumulated 100 hours or more of community service work (during their high school years) will receive a community service honor cord worn at graduation (provided by PTSA). Please check our Student Community Service Program webpage, on the IH PTSA website, for details. Also, if you’d like to recommend any volunteer organizations to invite to our annual Volunteer Fair (date to be announced soon) to help students connect to service that speaks to them, visit www.IssaquahHighPTSA.org.

grandridgeptsa.org

Popcorn Friday Gifts from Gilman Scholastic Book Fair and Online Second Grade Concert @ 6:30 P.M. Market Day – 4th Grade After-school Movie @ 1:30 P.M Grizzly Guys at Recess

Issaquah Middle School issaquahmiddleptsa.org 12/4 12/8

Trimester 2 Begins Grading Day, Early Release @ 10:20 A.M.

Pacific Cascade Middle School

pacificcascadeptsa.org 12/4 12/8 12/10 12/11

Trimester 2 Begins Grading Day, Early Release @ 10:20 A.M. PTSA General Membership Meeting @12:30 P.M. Combined Holiday Concert @7:00 P.M.

Gibson Ek High School GibsonEk.org

Issaquah High School

issaquahhighptsa.org 12/1 12/8 12/12 12/13 12/13 12/17

Angel Holiday Gifts Drive PTSA Membership Meeting Candelight Concert @ 7:00 P.M IH PTSA Staff Appreciation Breakfast Winter Band and Orchestra Concert @ 7:00 P.M. Evergreen Concert – Home for the Holidays

Echo Glen Children’s Center Looking for Parent Volunteers

Susan@smilepower.org.

Do you enjoy playing with art, or teaching others cooking 101?

Echo Glen Children’s Center needs art and cooking docents – both leads and assistants to support these programs. No artistic or cooking talent required. Lessons, projects, and recipes are provided (unless you prefer your own). Echo Glen is a state-run detention center for children in Snoqualmie, in partnership with the Issaquah School District, as the educational component.

By investing a couple hours a month, YOU can make a BIG difference in these youths lives! Small commitment - BIGGER impact! For more information and details on Echo Glen, contact

IHS Candlelight and Home for the Holidays Family Concerts CANDLELIGHT is a family concert that appeals to all ages. Issaquah High School Concert Chorale, Treble Clef Women’s Choir, Mix It Up, Hi Tones, & In Harmony will move you with a wide variety of songs, including music of the season, and a new tradition, our Candlelight Processional. To make this event more accessible to families and friends of our choir members, admission is FREE for students with an ASB card and children. General tickets will be $8.00 at the door. December 12th, at 7:00 P.M.

The 2017 Home for the Holidays Event, by the IHS Evergreen Philharmonic Orchestra, will be December 16th, 2017, at 4:00 P.M., in the Issaquah Performing Arts Center, at 700 2nd Ave SE, Issaquah. Tickets are $8 for adults, and $5 for students and seniors, at the door. The annual Home for the Holidays tradition is less of a concert, and more like a family gathering for the holidays. This concert includes an audience sing along, with the good old holiday carols, as well as guest appearances from outstanding local talent. We look forward to your family joining our IHS family, this holiday season.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2017 •

25

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

by Tracie Jones, Wisteria Park

Parent and Special Services Training Opportunities

The Issaquah School District Special Services Department and The Arc of King County have partnered to offer three FREE parent training sessions, open to parents, guardians, caregivers and teachers of students with special needs. The first session is Participating in IEP Meetings: Strategies for Effective Collaboration with IEP Team, held on December 4, 2017, starting at 6:30 PM, at Issaquah Middle School. For more information, visit the Issaquah School District at Issaquah.wednet.edu.

STEM Game Development Competition

The WSPTA Game Development Competition is a STEMbased program, introduced to encourage and support student success. The theme for the 2017-2018 competition is Gravity. Students in grades 9-12 may participate and share their knowledge of computer science. Teams are encouraged and may include up to six members of multiple grades. The purpose is to provide an opportunity for students to use their creative talents and express themselves by developing a computer game. Students’ submissions are judged in the following areas: game of the year, arts and animation, game design, programming (code), and audio design. Submission forms are due January 15th, 2018. Final projects are due March 15th, 2018. For further details, visit wastatepta.org/events-programs/game-competition/.

Report from 2017 Legislative Assembly

Delegates from across the state gathered for inspiration, advocacy education, networking, and to consider the addition of new positions to the policy platform, as Washington State PTA held its 39th annual Legislative Assembly. Check the Washington State PTA blog, (wastatepta.org/2017wspta-legislative-assembly-recap/) to review the highlights and titles of four new long-term resolutions and seven new short-term legislative issues. For more information about the Washington State PTA, WASTATEPTA.org.

KCLS Study Zone & FREE After-School Tutoring

The KCLS Study Zone is a place for students to study, work on homework, and find help with questions from volunteer tutors, at your local library. No need to register, or provide personal information to participate. Tutors work with 1-5 students in group settings. Anyone can attend Study Zone sessions: K-12 students who want help with any subject, students needing a positive environment to study and complete homework, individuals up to age 21 studying for their GED, even if you don’t have questions for the tutors, check us out. Our tutors are volunteers from the community who’ve passed a Washington State Patrol background check and completed a program orientation. Volunteers range in age from high school juniors to retired adults. For more information, schedules, visit KCLS.org/StudyZone/.

“Caring through Sharing” Holiday Drive– Last Week to Donate There are only a few more days to donate, either at local school dropoffs, or directly at Pickering Barn, until December 5th, 2017, from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM. “Caring through Sharing” encourages neighbors to purchase a few extra dinner items, new or unused toys and clothing, or gift cards while shopping, to ensure Issaquah children of all ages have warm clothing, a family dinner, and a few gifts to unwrap. (Please keep in mind, every year Issaquah Food Bank is short of middle and high school gifts.) Thank you for participating in our annual “Caring through Sharing” program, and making a difference for a child this season! For more information, suggestions, and lists, visit, www.issaquahfoodbank.org/holiday-gift-barn.

Challenger Gift-A-Book: Give the Gift of Literacy

Challenger’s Gift-A-Book Program is right in time for the holidays! The PTA Literacy Program promotes book donations to keep our school library supplied with new and exciting reading materials. Gift-A-Book celebrates and honors our students, while encouraging school-wide literacy. With each gift, a commemorative donor’s plate will be placed inside the front of every selected book, along with each recipient being the first to check out their selected title. Challenger PTA hopes every family will consider this enriching, memorable present, not just for holidays and birthdays, but for all the wonderful milestones in our children’s lives. Thank you! For more information, ChallengerPTA.org.

Gingerbread House Night and Auction- Clark Elementary Mark your calendars! The Family Gingerbread House and Auction will be held December 15, 2017, starting at 6:00 PM. Don’t miss this annual festive tradition, hosted at Clark Elementary school, for the entire family to enjoy!

The gingerbread house decorating night is a fun, sweet event for everyone. Interested in volunteering, preordering a gingerbread house, or more information, visit ClarkPTA.org.

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• December 2017

Issaquah Highlands Connections

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

FEMA Reminds us to Travel Safely this Holiday Season

by Amanda Keverkamp, CERT Team 9, Resident of Crofton Springs

Prepare for winter weather by stocking your car with emergency supplies

Whether headed to the slopes for some fun in the snow, or going to Snowflake Lane, FEMA reminds us to be prepared for bad weather.

They recommend these steps to help keep you and your family safe while you travel: 1. Know before you go. Check weather forecasts and road conditions. Drive only if necessary when bad weather is predicted.

2. Keep your gas tank above half-full and your cell phone fully charged.

3. Winterize your vehicle. Check (or have a mechanic check): • Antifreeze levels • Brakes (check for wear and fluid levels) • Lights and flashing hazard lights • Thermostat • Windshield wiper equipment (repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level) • Install winter tires (check for adequate tread) Other things to check: exhaust system, fuel and air filters, battery and ignition system, and heater and defroster.

4. Keep a winter emergency supply kit in the trunk.

• Tire chains (appropriate for your sized vehicle) • Jumper cables • Cat litter or sand (to help with tire traction) • Shovel • Ice scraper • Extra warm clothes • Blankets or sleeping bags 5. Make any necessary updates to these all season emergency supplies that are already in your car kit: • Flares or reflective triangles • Flashlights (replace batteries) • First aid kit • Battery or hand crank radio • Non-perishable food • Manual can opener • Water • Tools • Pet supplies For more helpful information visit www.ready. gov/winter-weather.

Any number of small emergency kit items would make an excellent stocking stuffer.

What says “I love you” better than a lifesaving multi-tool keychain, water filter straw, or hand crank radio?

Issaquah Highlands Connections

December 2017 •

DIRECTORY

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

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

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

Responsible for:

IssaquahHighlands.com Responsible for:

Property Management Enforcement of CCRs, Rules, Regs

Architectural Review

Common Area Landscape

Funded by:

Annual IHCA Assessments Neighborhood Assessments

Governing Body

Board of Directors ihcaboard @ihcommunity.org Jim Young, President Rossie Cruz, Vice President Dan Vradenburg, Treasurer Walt Bailey, Secretary Jim Noel , Director Rob Knight, Director

Sarah Hoey, Executive Director sarah.h@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1120 Erika North, Senior Community Manager erika.n@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1121 Barbara Uribe, Senior Accountant and Benefits Coordinator barbara.u@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1123 Joon Chang, Director of Accounting joon.c@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1117 Soledad Ruiz, Account receivable specialist soledad.r@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119 Jessica Dorsey, Community Manager jessica.d@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1113 Lyle Dickey, Landscape Manager lyle.d@ihcommunity.org Billing Inquiries payments@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119

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.

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

Community Events Blakely Hall Community Center

Facility Rentals

Community Garden Facebook E-Letter Connections Newspaper issaquahhighlands.com

Governing Body

Board of Trustees hcbot@ihcouncil.org Larry Norton, President Patrick Byers, Vice President David Ngai, Treasurer Philip Nored, Secretary Fred Nystrom, Trustee Ami Desai-Mehta, Trustee

Funded by:

Sponsorships/Grants & Advertising Community Enhancement Fees (1/4 of 1% on sale of home) 12¢ per sq. ft. retail/commercial | $50/door per year for apartments 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, 425-654-4494 Michele McFarland, Finance Manager & Office Administrator michele.m@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1108 Vicki Grunewald, Graphic Design & Digital Marketing Coordinator vicki.g@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1109 Julie Clegg, Creative Coordinator | julie.c@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 facebook.com/ issaquahhighlands Sign up for our weekly E-Letter at issaquahhighlands.com

RENTAL FACILITIES

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

Join the Connections Team Highlands Council is always looking for volunteer contributing writers, photographers and graphic designers. For more information, contact Nina Milligan, Communications Manager, at nina.m@ihcouncil.org.

NEW! Submit an Announcement for “Milestones” See your announcements published in the new life “Milestones” section of Connections.

We accept birth/adoption, graduation, marriage, obituary and culturally-recognized life milestone announcements for Issaquah Highlands residents only. See submission form and guidelines at IssaquahHighlands.com.

Interested in advertising in Connections?

We welcome media sponsors at any time during the year.

Connections printed and distributed monthly, free of charge, to every address in Issaquah Highlands (residences and businesses). We also distribute through local gathering spaces, such as coffee shops and the Metro Park and Ride. Circulation: Approximately 4,500

Display ad pricing begins at $75/month. Discounts available for 3, 6 and 12 month contracts. Online advertising is also available.

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

More information, ad packets/pricing, editorial calendar and electronic archives can be found here: issaquahhighlands.com/ connect/connections-news-2/ Opinions expressed either by paid advertisers or editorial content do not necessarily reflect the views of Highlands Council or this newspaper.

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

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Issaquah Highlands Connections