October 2020 by Issaquah Highlands Connections

Connections

ISSAQUAH HIGHL ANDS

By Community, for Community October 2020

CELEBRATING TOGETHER, APART IN ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS

Photo by Toni Hunter

NUSA 2020 Winner for Best Non-Profit Print Newsletter! W H AT â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S I N S I D E ? 5-7 Feature: Homebound Holidays in IH 8 Wish You Were Here 9 Volunteer of the Month 11 Highlands Council 12 Highlands Youth (HY) 13 City News 15 What's Happening

16-17 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

October 2020

EDITOR’S NOTE We’ve all experienced significant changes to our lives this year. While it’s easy to reminisce about “the way things were” before COVID-19, Highlands Council is challenging itself and looking ahead to the future to see how we can continue to best serve our stakeholders on our mission to “build community in Issaquah Highlands.” As part of this new strategy, Nina Milligan is taking on a new role as Highlands Council's Business Outreach and Services Manager, helping us build relationships and partnerships with businesses and organizations across our community. “Nina created the idea that paying for advertising in Connections is more than marketing, it is a way to sponsor a beloved patch of the fabric of our community,” Christy Garrard, Highlands Council Executive Director, said. Nina will also manage beautiful Blakely Hall.

Nina (right) and I at my first Highlands Day in 2017.

Now as Highlands Council Media Editor, I will act as editor of Connections while continuing to oversee the community’s official websites. I’ve worked alongside Nina on Connections and our digital media since joining Highlands Council in 2016. I’m grateful to know her as a mentor and a friend. While these are exciting changes at Highlands Council, I take on the role of editor knowing I have big shoes to fill. I'm happy to have Nina as a partner on Connections in her new role. The holiday season will bring more changes as we reimagine how we celebrate and honor our traditions in our “new normal.” The Cross-Cultural Committee produced the content for this issue’s feature, “Homebound Holidays in the Highlands” – personal stories describing how families will celebrate cultural holidays this season without the usual extended family visits, large gatherings, and festivals. Read how some traditions will go on as planned, just on a smaller scale at home, while others might transform into something new.

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Also, in this issue: the results of the Community Shuttle Survey, a new series from the Highlands Youth Advisory Board called “A Letter to My Future Self,” a message from Issaquah City Councilmember Zach Hall, and much more. We hope you enjoy this festive issue!

VickiGrunewald

Vicki Grunewald | Highlands Council Media Editor

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

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October 2020

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

October 2020

HALLOWEEN

A Quarantine Halloween

by Chelsea Musick Central Park Resident

Halloween is one of my family’s favorite holidays. There’s always a lot of excitement around costumes, decorations, and strategizing how to get more candy year after year. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Halloween will certainly be different this year.

According to Lindsey Walsh, Issaquah City Council member, the city of Issaquah is discussing what we can do as a community to celebrate Halloween and stay safe. While I look forward to hearing any official guidelines, my family is already making alternate Halloween plans. Instead of traditional parties, we’ll attend the community’s virtual Halloween Trivia event (see details on pages 14-15) and instead of going trick-or-treating with the kids, we’ll plan a fun family celebration at home.

Logan Hunter dressed up as Harry Potter for Halloween 2017. Photo by Toni Hunter, Kirk Park Resident.

CELEBRATING TOGETHER, APART IN ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS Fall has an abundance of national and cultural holidays honored by our Issaquah Highlands neighbors. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are changing many of the traditional ways we celebrate these special fall holidays this year. Instead of large gatherings of family and friends or busy festivals, many holiday celebrations will be held at home or virtually.

Our local social media groups have been a great resource for ideas about how to celebrate as a community, as well as creative ideas to make a “spooktacular” celebration at home. I loved this idea from Central Park resident, Teresa Cowan: have a socially-distanced “monster mash” dance on your street, almost like a mini block party. Several people on social media commented they plan to leave out bowls of candy or hand out individually wrapped goody bags on Halloween night. I look forward to trying some of the other ideas posted on social media for making new traditions and having a special Halloween celebration at home with my family. There are so many great suggestions, like making caramel apples, watching spooky movies, designing masks, creating goody bags for kiddos, eating a special pizza dinner, having a piñata, or hiding candy at home for a flashlight search. Whatever we do this year, we’ll be sure to embrace the Halloween spirit of fun, candy, and a touch of scary.

The Issaquah Highlands Cross-Cultural Committee produced this festive feature highlighting how members of our community will observe some of the major fall holidays this year. We are so fortunate to live in a place where by Lindsey Pinkston Community Program Manager, so many people with diverse backgrounds live together in community. It is Highlands Council important to understand the culture and customs of our neighbors, especially and Wisteria Park Resident this year when many may be missing their family and their annual traditions. If your family honors a holiday that was not included here, we would love to share your story with the community on our official blog at https://www.issaquahhighlands.com/blog. Please email me at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org to be featured. Learn more about the Cross-Cultural Committee at issaquahhighlands.com.

Chelsea's daughter, Adara (left) with friend, Anika, trick-ortreating on Halloween in 2019.

6 October 2020 JEWISH HIGH HOLY DAYS & SUKKOT

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Remembering Jewish Traditions at Home

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While COVID-19 derailed most social activities this year, it will not affect the Kernish family’s plans to welcome the new year with golden rounds of challah bread paired with meals of chicken soup, beef brisket, and kugel. They will fast on Yom Kippur, the solemn day of atonement, starting the night before with a pre-fast dinner that includes soup dumplings stuffed with shredded meat. Dena will d challah bread in n u o stea bake sweet cookies filled with jelly, raisins, as r do ly h i f th and nuts using a recipe handed down from am et f her great-grandmother, who emigrated 's to the U.S. from Russia at the turn of the century. She may even make a honey cake to ensure that, despite what we’ve gone through this year, the new year will be a “sweet and good year.”

Dena’s extended family lives in New Jersey and every holiday season has been a bright, busy affair with about a dozen people laughing, hugging, and sharing laden platters around her parents’ dinner table, celebrating the rich traditions of Judaism. But COVID-19 forced Dena, her husband, and their two children to shift from in-person family gatherings to Zoom calls this holiday season.

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The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to live our lives indoors and in small, controlled settings, including when we celebrate important holidays. Homes traditionally filled with laughter and conversation during holidays will sound differently this year. Like the Kernish family, most of us will avoid large gatherings in favor of home-cooked meals with immediate family.

The tradition of listening to the melodious notes of a shofar – a ram’s horn blown like a trumpet – is so ingrained in Jewish culture that it will be weird to miss it, Dena said.

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I spoke with Dena in early September to ask how her family will recognize these holidays this year, despite the pandemic.

by Lynn Varner Magnolia Park Resident

The crisp, clean air of fall feels like a new beginning. For Issaquah Highlands resident, Dena Eben Kernish and her family, who follow the Jewish and Gregorian calendars, fall moves by in a flurry of Jewish High Holy Days, starting with the holiday of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, followed by Yom Kippur.

After Yom Kippur, the Kernish family will recognize Sukkot, a celebration of the gathering of the harvest, and build their annual hut, or sukkah, in their backyard. The family will decorate the structure with symbols of the fall harvest and images of the biblical patriarchs and matriarchs. Since Dena’s backyard in Issaquah Highlands is small, the sukkah will be just large enough for her family of four to dine inside for the week. She has not decided whether her family will join their rabbi for dinner under his large sukkah, normally a profoundly joyous event now risky in these times.

Larissa and a friend celebrating Oktoberfest in Leavenworth, Wash. after the annual marathon there to mark the holiday.

OKTOBERFEST

German Festival Fun in the Comfort of Home

“I think the first holiday we celebrate back the normal way will be the best holiday I’ve ever celebrated,” Dena said.

DIWALI/DEEPAVALI

Keeping Traditions Alight, Virtually

by Samanyu Tirumale Age 9, Wisteria Park Resident

Diwali (or Deepavali) is a Hindu festival celebrated in India and a few other parts of the world. It is called “Diwali” in the northern part of India, and “Deepavali” in the Southern part. Diwali is also celebrated by some Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs. The significance of Diwali is to celebrate victory over evil. We light candles, lights, or oil lamps called “deepa” or “diya.”

My family follows South Indian traditions. We celebrate for either three or five days. We wake up early in the morning, have a traditional oil bath, and wear new clothes. We offer prayers to God and start our celebration by eating lots of delicious food. Traditionally, we invite our family and friends to celebrate together. We decorate our house with colorful flowers and lamps. We also donate food and clothes to families in need. Many families decorate their front yards with colorful flowers or designs called Rangoli. Food is the focus of the Diwali (Deepavali) festival. Families usually prepare lots of sweets. We also light fireworks or sparklers together to celebrate, where it is allowed.

Samanyu, held by his father, with his mother, Shubha, who holds a traditional diya during a past Diwali celebration.

(Fireworks and sparklers are not allowed in Issaquah Highlands.) A note from Shubha Tirumale, Samanyu's mother: Normally, Diwali (Deepavali) is celebrated by bringing families and friends together. This year, instead of gathering together in person, we hope to have a virtual celebration with our family and friends, enjoying long conversations and traditional foods.

by Larissa Kolasinkski Manchester Court Resident

With the holiday season coming up, celebrating during a pandemic will be a unique challenge. In recognition of our Germanic heritage, Oktoberfest has been a popular tradition in my family, spanning the last week of September to the first week of October.

The celebration originated in 1810 when Crown Prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I of Bavaria) married Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen and the couple was honored with a horse race in Munich. Later, the annual event added shows and carnival booths to promote Bavarian agriculture. The festival has grown and evolved over time, including more fair booths and games, carousels, performers, musicians, and breweries. As Oktoberfest became more commercialized in recent decades, smaller festivals have popped up in major cities around the world, featuring their own local performers, brews, and artists. Instead of horse races, running races such as marathons and 5Ks are now popular additions to kick off the festival weekend. The races are probably my favorite modern spin on the holiday, along with ridiculous games such as balancing beer steins in your arms. This year, I plan to celebrate Oktoberfest from the comfort of my home or backyard, depending on the weather. Instead of running in an Oktoberfest race with thousands of participants, you’ll see me run through the neighborhood on my own. Instead of attending a folk festival, like the one each year in Leavenworth, I will taste German lagers, pretzels, sauerkraut, and sausages from my own kitchen. While we might not be able to gather for Oktoberfest this year, I know people around the world will join me in raising a glass to celebrate. Prost!

Issaquah Highlands Connections MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL

October 2020

Learning More About our Heritage at Home Tết Trung Thu, or Mid-Autumn Moon Festival, is just around the corner, this year starting on October 1. With current pandemic regulations expected to hinder large gatherings typical of cultural festivities, my family and I will not celebrate this year’s holiday in by Kim Ngo our traditional way. Rather than Crofton Springs Resident wandering between fun-filled festival booths among crowds of people, we will enjoy this significant Vietnamese cultural event at home by exploring its history through homemade art, music, literature, and of course, food.

as we sing fun songs, including the famous tune, “Tết Trung Thu rước đèn đi chơi.” Since my kids love making art and coming up with silly rhymes, I hope they will draw me their version of the harvest moon, accompanied by a handwritten poem, so they can better understand and remember our culture.

With both my daughters engaged in remote learning and limited in-person extracurriculars, we find ourselves together more often than usual, which I consider a blessing. In the past, we passively participated in Tết Trung Thu without much discussion about the significance of its traditions. This year, I have a list of activities we will do together at home the week leading up to Mid-Autumn Moon Festival to help us learn more about this holiday.

Of course, no festival occurs without food. Honoring the harvest full moon means we get to eat all things round. I still plan to purchase bánh nướng trung thu, baked mooncakes deliciously filled with sweet beans and savory meats, as well as candied nuts and seeds. This year, my budding young chefs will learn how to make some of their favorite festival foods, including steamed pork buns (bánh bao) and shrimp-studded savory crepes (bánh xèo). As a trained pastry chef, being able to share how to create these spherical delicacies with my daughters will be the highlight of this year’s Tết Trung Thu.

Known throughout Vietnam as the children’s festival, art and music play key roles in celebrating Tết Trung Thu, as kids of all ages congregate in the streets to parade their masks and lanterns while singing songs. Although no parades will be held in my neighborhood, our front porch will be lit with fish- and moon-shaped paper lanterns decorated by my girls

Kim's daughters, Kaili and Klara, wear traditional Vietnamese clothing during a past Mid-Autumn Festival Moon celebration.

Honoring Loved Ones, No Matter What Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead or All Souls Day) originated in Mexico and is celebrated all over Latin America with colorful calaveras (skulls) and calacas (skeletons). This year, Día de los Muertos may look different, but we’ll still take time to honor our loved ones who passed away.

Fast forward to today when our lives have changed so much because of the COVID-19 pandemic. While we may not gather together, my family in the United States and Mexico will still honor our deceased loved ones this year. We will have photos of them in picture frames. We will have our Mexican sweet bread ready and toast our loved ones with Mexican hot chocolate. We will then choose a special dedicated area of our home to place these items, along with brightly colored sugar skulls (representing the departed

Enjoy Your Pie and Your Cake, Too

by Kimberly Kapustein, Highlands Council Board of Trustees Vice President and Dahlia Park Resident

Thanksgiving is a special holiday in the Kapustein household. In previous years, preparing for Thanksgiving was a week-long process of deep cleaning the house and refrigerator, shopping, and, of course, baking.

We baked everyone’s favorite desserts – cheesecake, apple pie, pumpkin pie, and especially, sweet potato pie – the night before. Oven space was limited, which meant you would often find sweet potatoes roasting with other Thanksgiving staples. So much time went into these pies – roasting, mashing, mixing, baking, and chilling. Slicing through the soft custard topped with whipped cream was the perfect ending to a perfect family meal. This year, our Thanksgiving will be a bit different. We will probably not be with our extended family. A huge meal might be overkill. How can we still make this Thanksgiving special? We can try with dessert.

The Día de los Muertos holiday pulls on my heartstrings, bringing back many beautiful and wonderful memories from when I was a little girl. My family would drive thousands of miles to Guadalajara, Mexico during the fall months, around the time of Día de los Muertos (between October 31 and November 2). We would have nostalgic feelings as we remembered and honored our deceased loved ones. We visited their cemeteries, all lit up and decorated with flowers, offerings of sweet bread, and photos. Our families would spend time there, reminiscing about our loved ones who passed away. We would laugh and cry and ironically, it would bring joy and warmth to our hearts.

THANKSGIVING

I cannot wait to celebrate Mid-Autumn Moon Festival at home with my girls!

DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS

by Magaly Merkel Kirk Park Resident

Yum! Get Kimberly's recipe for sweet potato pie with chocolate almond crust on issaquahhighlands.com.

Although we’ll have fewer people at our house for Thanksgiving, we still want to eat all our favorite desserts. Get creative and combine them. I combined elements of a cheesecake with my favorite pie to make a sweet potato pie with chocolate almond crust. Get the recipe at https:// www.issaquahhighlands.com/tag/thanksgiving. Magaly displays photos of her deceased loved ones as a way to honor them during Día de los Muertos.

soul), marigold flowers (representing the fragility of life and used to guide spirits with their vibrant color), and colorful paper flowers. My kids and I love to make our own paper flowers. While making them, they learn more about the Day of the Dead as we spend time together and more importantly, they learn about their ancestors. It’s beautiful to see my kids’ eyes get bigger and brighter as they want to learn more about my family’s heritage and this special day. We will never forget our loves ones who have passed. Día de los Muertos is certainly here with us, no matter what life throws our way.

This year, don’t feel like you have to do it all. I encourage you to improvise, much like the jazz music of Miles Davis and Charlie Parker playing in the background of my kitchen. As I suggest in the recipe, you can use almond flour or hazelnut flour, depending on what you have on hand. Both work and each adds a different level of complexity to the dish (hazelnut flour is a bit nuttier than almond flour). You can follow the recipe the way it is written or add something you think will work better. This is definitely a choose-your-ownadventure year, but it's the family memories that mean the most. Experiment and create a new dessert that becomes a family-favorite for future Thanksgivings to come.

October 2020

, r o b h g i Dear Ne

Issaquah Highlands Connections

u o Y h Wis e Here! r e W

VIP Bingo Honoring Annual Community Volunteers

Highlands Council, the Issaquah Highlands Community Association, and Highlands Fiber Network rolled out the virtual red carpet in September to honor Issaquah Highlandsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; annual volunteers with a VIP bingo night. These volunteers serve year-round on boards and committees, write for Connections, lead community groups, and much more! Thank you to all our communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s volunteers for helping to make Issaquah Highlands a place we love to call home!

60 volunteers

Over and their families attended this fun event! Thank you to our sponsor Matt Jensen, The Agency NW Real Estate, for making this special event possible!

Wow!

Issaquah Mayor Mary Lou Pauly attended bingo night with her husband and gave a special message thanking volunteers for all they do in our community.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

October 2020

OCTOBER VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

Charlie Herb

HFN Board of Directors My wife, Lisa and I moved to Issaquah Highlands from Kirkland in July 2003. That was back before Exit 18 was built and the only way into the neighborhood was from SE Black Nugget Road (now closed), and years before the school or the hospital were built. We were drawn to Issaquah Highlands by Port Blakely’s “urban village” vision, which included the promise of a diverse and inclusive community; numerous parks, trails, and open spaces within walking distance; and a future school, hospital, retail sector, and state-of-the-art fiber network. Since moving to Issaquah Highlands, we’ve had four children: Anne (13), Daniel (11), Catherine (8), and Luke (6). Catherine and Luke were both born at Swedish Hospital in Issaquah, with Catherine born about a month after the birthing wing opened in late 2011. Our first home was a townhouse in Sorrento, across from Grand Ridge Elementary School when it was built a few years later. We lived in Sorrento for 11 years before moving to Discovery Heights for six months while we finished construction on our current home in Pinecrest, where we’ve lived for nearly six years. I started volunteering in Issaquah Highlands in 2003 when I joined what is now known as the Highlands Fiber Network (HFN) Advisory Group. In addition to HFN, I volunteered on the Sorrento Board of Directors during the last few years we resided in that neighborhood. This fall marks my 17th anniversary volunteering with HFN. Our fiber network has been through several transitions over the years and I’m very proud to have acted as a community representative during that time, ensuring the best interests of the community informed each decision.

Volunteer of the Month and HFN Board of Directors President Charlie Herb with his daughter, Anne.

Some of the notable milestones over the past 17 years include: • 2007: Change in HFN’s business model to outsource support, billing, and operations to maintain financial viability. • 2011: Introduction of an industry-leading $55/month 100 MB plan and $199/month Gigabit plan. • 2013: Feasibility study, negotiation, and purchase of the network from Issaquah Highlands developer, Port Blakely; formation of the HFN Board of Directors and hiring of General Manager Frank Pineau. • 2015: Introduction of an industry leading $70/month Gigabit plan. • 2020: Frank’s retirement and hiring of General Manager Jeremy Fallt. I served as vice president of the HFN Board of Directors for the first six years after the community purchased the network from Port Blakely. At the start of this year, I took over as president of the board. I’m looking forward to identifying new and exciting ways for HFN to serve our community. Our network continues to receive national attention, and we’re seeing more and more communities try to replicate what we’ve built. My hope is HFN will continue to be the state-of-the-art fiber network that contributed to our decision to move to Issaquah Highlands so many years ago. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to volunteer in Issaquah Highlands; it has been a very rewarding experience to serve the community.

I’m looking forward to identifying

new and exciting ways for HFN to serve our community.

Charlie (far right) and his family proudly wear their "Issaquah Highlands Stronger Together" shirts. Find out how you can get your own on page 4.

Are you inspired to get involved in the Issaquah Highlands community? Visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer to discover all the different ways you can get involved in our Issaquah Highlands community or contact Lindsey Pinkston, Highlands Council Program Manager at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org.

October 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

October 2020

HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

Little Free Library Gifts New Book-Sharing Box to Our Community

for Focus Groups! Community Shuttle Conversations Continue

by Christy Garrard Executive Director, Highlands Council and Dahlia Park Resident

A big “thank you” to the 488 neighbors who participated in the Community Shuttle Survey in August. At the September 15 Highlands Council Board of Trustees meeting, the Highlands Council Transportation Solutions Committee reviewed the data collected and recommended the board move to the next phase of research: virtual focus group meetings with interested members of the community.

To participate in an upcoming focus group, visit issaquahhighlands.com and sign up for a date and time that works for you during the months of October and November. Focus groups will be presented with a summary of data collected thus far, and new information such as suggested routes, shuttle stops, and cost. Transportation Solutions Committee members will answer questions, make note of your suggestions, and take your feedback back to the full committee for debrief. If, through the focus groups, we learn the community shuttle idea is not supported, Highlands Council will not move forward. If the community is in favor, then in January 2021, we expect to start seeking funding via commercial sponsorships, state and federal grants, and a potential small increase in our homeowner’s association dues, all in an effort to have this new amenity funded and ready to safely launch when COVID-19 restrictions deem it is safe to do so. At this time, a community shuttle service in Issaquah Highlands is not a done deal. As a resident of Issaquah Highlands, your voice matters. Whether you’re for or against the idea, we encourage a representative from every household to participate.

STATS OF THOSE SURVEYED

50% said they would take a shuttle to the Issaquah Highlands Park & Ride. This could mean more parking spaces open for people who live in surrounding areas.

69% viewed the shuttle as a safe and reliable way to get home from entertainment areas.

95% said they would be comfortable allowing their teen to use the shuttle, and 41% said a shuttle stop at Central Park would improve the afterschool sports activity commute for their family.

69% said they would ride their bike more if they knew they could get a ride up “the hill,” leading to a healthier, more active community.

75% said they would use the community shuttle.

WE HEAR YOU! Common themes from the survey In support of having a shuttle:

Against having a shuttle:

• If we had a community shuttle, we could get rid of one of our family’s vehicles. It would change our lifestyle.

• I don’t want to pay more in HOA dues for this service.

• A shuttle would be great for elderly relatives who have extended visits and can’t drive themselves. • We would explore Issaquah Highlands more if there was a shuttle to get us up the hill. • Make the shuttle dog-friendly and have a stop near the Bark Park. • The after-work walk home from the Park & Ride is tiring and time-consuming – a shuttle would be helpful!

• This seems like an incredible waste of money and resources, and a liability to the community. • I prefer to have freedom to leave when I want and not rely on a specific schedule. • I don’t want non-Issaquah Highlands residents patronizing Grand Ridge Plaza to have easy and free access to our homes and neighborhoods. • I prefer to drive, ride my bike, or walk.

by Christy Garrard, Executive Director, Highlands Council and Dahlia Park Resident

The Little Free Library (LFL) nonprofit organization granted 100 Little Free Library booksharing boxes to sites that serve children in an effort to improve book access for kids across the country. Highlands Council is thrilled to announce that our community was selected among the first 50 grantees. The 100-library giveaway is in celebration of LFL reaching 100,000 Little Free Library book-sharing boxes worldwide. “We are happy to recognize the hard work of our stewards who made 100,000 Little Free Library installations possible by granting 100 of our libraries and book packages where they are needed most,” said LFL Executive Director Greig Metzger. “There is no more critical time for our children.” Highlands Council received a Little Free Library booksharing box, a mounting post, and a selection of children’s books generously provided by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. The addition of this Little Free Library takes our community’s total count to nine. The first eight were funded and built by the Highlands Youth Advisory Board in 2016. The new box was installed in the pocket park located on 25th Avenue NE at the intersection of NE Hamlin Court. You can find all the locations of the Issaquah Highlands Little Free Libraries at https://www.issaquahhighlands.com/ explore/parks.

Cross-Cultural Committee Update by Lindsey Pinkston, Community Program Manager, Highlands Council and Wisteria Park Resident

The Issaquah Highlands Cross-Cultural Committee continues their work toward building a stronger, more welcoming, and inclusive community. Focused on honoring the diverse cultures that make up our Issaquah Highlands community, last month the group accomplished the following: • Placed almost 50 books in the nine Little Free Libraries throughout Issaquah Highlands. • Participated in Issaquah’s Welcoming Week events. • Wrote content for this month’s Connections feature, “Homebound Holidays in the Highlands,” to share diverse cultures throughout the community. • Launched a movie discussion series, starting with a discussion of “Atlantics.” All are welcome! We’d love for you to join us for our next meeting on Tuesday, October 13, and our next movie discussion on Monday, October 26. You may also join the conversation on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ groups/IHCrossCultural or find more information and resources at issaquahhighlands.com.

October 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

HIGHLANDS YOUTH - HY

Dear Joseph, A Letter to My Future Self It's 2020 and the last six months were crazy because of the pandemic, which impacted your life in many ways.

by Joseph Bone-Mazak HY Board Member, high school freshman, and Dahlia Park resident

When in public, it was very difficult not to wish for things to go back to normal. You stayed extra cautious about following social distancing measures by wearing a mask and keeping at least 6 feet of distance from others outdoors. You were hopeful life would go back to normal soon.

You started running with Dad, helping you stay active and keeping your mind off the pandemic. Music helped keep you motivated while running, giving you a chance to push yourself every time. Your favorite artist to listen to when you were active was Chris Brown. In 2020, you were passionate about cycling and established a goal to ride two or three times a week. You also started taking walks around the neighborhood, helping you get out of the house and take in your surroundings.

Highlands Youth Advisory Board (HY) members were asked to write letters to their future selves, reflecting on how their lives have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This series of articles, one published each month, will enter into the Issaquah History Museums collections to be preserved for generations of youth to come.

Having spent a lot of time with our family during this time, you learned many wonderful things about them. You discovered our dad makes fantastic homemade bread – it is the best. As an extravert, some of the things you looked forward to at this time were seeing your friends face-to-face again and having the ability to eat at a restaurant. Prior to the pandemic, our family enjoyed eating at The Big Fish Grill in Issaquah Highlands. You would walk to the bottom of the hill anytime your family had a craving. In 2020, your ultimate desire was life to go back to normal. You'll remember starting the 2020-21 school year was different because your Joseph (center) with his dads, Jeremy (left) and Jason (right), in Death Valley National education was completely online. Going into your freshman year, you were thrilled Park in February 2020. to start your classes. You knew starting Overall, the last six months were challenging, yet rewarding high school had benefits and challenges. You were most for you and ultimately you planned to stay healthy, joyous, excited to start school because you would be in the comfort and determined. I can't wait to find out how it all turns out. of your home. One thing that worried you was falling behind in your classes. All you could do was try your best.

— Joseph

Can you help us? Our community is facing unprecedented times. No matter what shoes you walk in, we’ve all been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In this rapidly changing educational environment, support of the Issaquah Schools Foundation is critical. Since 1987, the Issaquah Schools Foundation has been funding programs and resources for students and teachers. We inspire innovation while meeting emerging needs - including technology and on-line tools to support remote learning for more than 20,000 students. If you are in a position to make a charitable gift to us, please donate. Help us stay agile and make an impact in our community!

FO L L O W US

isfdn.org/donate

Issaquah Highlands Connections

October 2020

CITY NEWS

Think Big and Act Locally Issaquah City Council is Your Partner for Change First, we were asked to recognize the kinds of racism people of color experience at a personal level – internalized racism, the kind of racism that exists within ourselves, and interpersonal racism, explicit acts of discrimination based on race. Then, we were asked to consider the kinds of racism people of color experience at a systemic level – institutional racism, the policies and practices that work to the benefit of white people and to the harm of people of color, and structural racism, the reality and legacy of institutional racism across many institutions. We studied history’s many examples and discussed scenarios inspired by real, local events.

When I joined the Issaquah City Council back in January, I looked forward to discussing issues, joining regional coalitions, connecting with the community, attending homeowner’s association meetings, engaging with by Zach Hall local activists, and just Issaquah City Councilmember, learning the ropes. Little Highlands Council Trustee, and did I know, our world, Vista Park resident our country, and even our city would be tested by an international pandemic, a revenue shortfall, struggling businesses, food and housing insecurity, the deaths of more unarmed Black people, and nationwide protests.

At the end of the workshop, I logged off the virtual meeting, closed my laptop, and sat still for what felt like an hour.

Now more than ever, I want to ask you to “think big and act locally.” What does that mean? First, let me tell you about an experience I had back on August 27, when the City Council was joined by Benita Horn, a local equity consultant. As part of the Issaquah Police Accountability, Equity, and Human Services Action Plan, we’d asked to have a workshop on racial equity. Benita asked us to listen, learn, and ask questions. She asked us to speak personally and embrace discomfort.

The City Council makes decisions every week that impact thousands – in some cases, tens of thousands – of people here in Issaquah. And the bottom line is we’re all white. We may have different backgrounds and different experiences, but we all show up to do the work with an enormous amount of privilege. What if that privilege is blinding us? What if we’re impacting lives of color here in Issaquah without even knowing it? What can we do now? What can I do now? This moment asks us to “think big and act locally.” We have the incredible opportunity to acknowledge our own implicit biases, scrutinize our policies, combat systemic racism, and ask tough questions of ourselves and others.

What do you expect of your government? What are the most important issues to you? What are your values? Most often, people answer these questions by writing or calling their congressional representatives or senators. That’s a good thing! This time, I’m asking you to write or call us, your City Council members. I encourage you to email us at citycouncil@issaquahwa. gov. If you’d prefer, you can always call or text me at (425) 436-1554. We have the chance to be the kind of city that really makes a difference in people’s lives and there’s only one reason why. It’s not the mayor, it’s not her staff, it’s not the City Council, and it’s not me. It’s because of you and this community and what we’ll accomplish working together. This is the third in a series of columns contributed by Issaquah City Council members who live in Issaquah Highlands. Find all articles in this series online at https://www.issaquahhighlands.com/tag/city-council.

That evening, we studied the many levels of racism.

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

THE GRANGE

For the Farmer in All of Us! rn

PUMPKINS

and Scarecrows!

Small Pumpkins. Medium Pumpkins. Large Pumpkins. we've got lots of

PUMPKINS! Western Clothing also available

Straw and Burlap bags available to help you create your Scarecrow!

to take your Scarecrow

r,:- to the next level.

Happy Fall! This year is going to be a bit different, but hopefully we’ll be able to open later in the season! At this time we are unclear of an exact opening date but for the latest info. on our hours and re-opening go to www.candymache.com or our Facebook & Instagram pages. Thank you for supporting local business!

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

October 2020

2020 Elections

JULY FORUM VIDEO AVAILABLE ON THE IH YOUTUBE CHANNEL

Washington state legislature (3 POSITIONS)

DATE: Monday, October 12 TIME: 7 pm LOCATION: This forum will presented online. Please see issaquahhighlands.com/events for details.

Hear directly from candidates running for local office and learn their positions on issues affecting our community. Forums are moderator-led and driven by community-generated questions. Submit your questions at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

October 2020

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS

Community Groups  Book Club

October's Book: "Dreamland" Tuesday, October 20, 7 p.m.

The book club is a great place to meet neighbors, socialize and explore a variety of books. Join the Facebook group at facebook.com/ihbookclub.

 Cross-Cultural

Movie Discussion

Monday, October 26, 7 p.m.

Each month the Cross-Cultural Committee will select a movie to broaden our cultural understanding. Pop your own popcorn and watch the movie on your own, then join the discussion on Zoom. Visit issaquahhighlands.com/ events for this month’s movie selection. All are welcome!

 IH Business Networking Group Join other small business owners for a new spin on the standard practice of networking, based on knowing the more we connect and share, the more we all grow! This group is inclusive, connection-based, and valuable to all members. No obligations, just genuine connections!

Monthly Meeting Monday, October 5, 9:30 - 10 a.m. Virtual Happy Hour Tuesday, October 20, 4 - 5 p.m.

Issaquah Highlands Hiking Group

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

 Meditation Group Fridays, 2 p.m.

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

Mountain Biking Group

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

 Photography Group Saturday, October 17, 10:30 a.m.

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

 Work Rock from Home Group

Join a support group of neighbors full of ideas, resources, and tips to help you “rock” at working from home! We will share positive vibes and ideas about how to balance life/work at home, avoid loneliness, and stay motivated. Join us on Facebook and for monthly webinars on relevant topics at facebook.com/groups/ rockfromhome.

 Toastmasters Thursdays, 7 a.m.

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

Save the Date

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

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

Get Involved Neighbor to Neighbor Services Directory

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

 Cross-Cultural Committee Thursday, October 13, 7 p.m.

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

Welcoming Committee

Do you love to meet new neighbors? Enjoy bringing people together socially? Join the new Welcoming Committee as we plan how to welcome new residents to Issaquah Highlands and introduce them to our neighborhoods. We’d love to have representatives on the committee from all over the community! Visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer to learn more or contact lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org. For more ways to get involved, please visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer.

Don't Miss This!  Telecommute Tuesday Trivia Tuesdays, 11 a.m.

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

 Candidate Forum

Wednesday, October 12, 7 p.m.

Hear directly from the candidates running for local office and learn their positions on issues affecting our community. Forums are moderator-led and driven by community-generated questions. Immediately following the forum, participate in virtual meet and greets to talk to the candidates directly. Pre-register at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

 Spooktacular Halloween Trivia Friday, October 23, 7 p.m.

 Veterans Day in the Highlands Wednesday, November 11, 9:30 a.m.

Calling all Issaquah Highlands veterans and their families, as well as all community members who would like to take this opportunity to honor our veterans. Join us online for a brief ceremony with music. Veterans, please register to let us know you’ll be there at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

Governance Mtgs  IHCA Architectural Review Committee Tuesday, October 6, 6 p.m.

IHCA Finance Committee Tuesday, October 13, 5:30 p.m.

Highlands Fiber Network Advisory Group Monday, October 19, 4 p.m.

IHCA Board of Directors Monday, October 26, 5:30 p.m.

Special Dates Mid-Autumn Festival Thursday, October 1

Sukkot

October 2 - 9

World Mental Health Day Saturday, October 10

ISD Teacher Workday (No School)

Monday, October 19

Halloween

Saturday, October 31

 2020 Election Dates General Election Ballots Mailed Wednesday, October 14

Ballot Dropboxes Open Thursday, October 15

Join fellow ghosts, monsters, and witches for a night of trivia fun… from home! Tickets are $12/person or $20/household and include a party pack with tricks and treats for a hauntingly good time! Get more details and purchase tickets at issaquahhighlands.com/events. Appear dressed in costume… IF YOU DARE!

Deadline to Update Voter Registration

Fall-O-Ween Home Decorating Contest

Tuesday, November 3 Dropboxes open until 8 p.m.

Entry Deadline: Tuesday, October 26, 9 a.m.

Decorate the exterior of your home for a chance to win Spooktacular prizes! Prizes will be awarded to the top two best-dressed homes in the categories of “Haunted Halloween” and “Fall Festive Home.” Please refer to https://www.issaquahhighlands.com/falloween-contest for complete details, rules, and to enter!

Monday, October 26

Last Day to Return Ballots Last Day to Register in Person and Vote Tuesday, November 3

Note: King Couty Elections recommends dropping your ballot in the mail by the Friday before Election Day to make sure it gets postmarked in time to be counted. Your ballot must be postmarked by Election Day.

 Indicates this group/event occurs online. All events are FREE unless otherwise noted. For daily updates, follow us on:     and at issaquahhighlands.com/events. Subscribe to our weekly e-letter at issaquahhighlands.com/connect.

October 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Don’t Fall Behind! Plan Next Summer’s House Projects Now

by Sarah Hoey IHCA Executive Director

Do you wait until the summer months to plan summer house projects only to find vendors are already booked for the season? Don’t fall behind! The Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) has some tips for lining up contracted work now for next season.

Because of the pandemic, getting vendors onsite is a challenge due to costs, access to needed materials, shipping delays, and availability of contracted labor. All this has caused the IHCA to look differently at the community’s needs and how to efficiently service the community. Here is a list of projects to start planning for next year: • Roof service: Moss removal, gutter cleaning, and repairs • HVAC services: Furnaces, hot water heaters, and AC units • Landscaping services • Exterior house painting • Power washing • Fence repairs Don’t forget to get at least three quotes from different vendors and ask when they expire. Vendors may offer discounts for booking next summer’s projects now.

IHCA Paints Curbs to Help the USPS Help Residents

by Matthew Hendrikse IHCA Maintenance Manager

As Issaquah Highlands residents and visitors know, parking can be a challenge in the community. While trying to find a parking spot, many people have parked in front of fire hydrants and mailboxes. Recently, the maintenance team began working to paint the curbs in front of mailboxes.

When people park in front of and block mailboxes, the postal service is unable to deliver mail to those locations. A postal worker cannot open mailboxes if a car is blocking them for fear of damaging the mailboxes or the car. It is the IHCA’s goal to help with the logistics of our community. The maintenance team is painting curbs to bring awareness to the mailboxes so residents can continue to get their mail and packages on time and prevent vehicle damage. Please slow down and drive with care when you see maintenance crews working near the mailboxes around the community this fall. Look for the yellow curbs and do not park in front of or block mailboxes. Photo provided by the IHCA.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

October 2020

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION ARC TIP OF THE MONTH

Generator Installation Installation of a generator requires Issaquah Highlands Community Association Architectural Review Committee (ARC) approval. Many people install generators to provide electricity during power outages. The ARC application is a simple process, just like the process for air conditioner installations. Complete the application (found at https://www.issaquahhighlands. com/learn/issaquah-highlands-community-associationihca/ihca-architectural-guidelines-and-forms) and submit it, along with a photo of where the unit will be placed in your yard and the manufacturer information

October Landscape and Irrigation Update

by Lyle Dickey IHCA Landscape Manager

LANDSCAPE: Landscape crews have started their fall pruning schedule, which will continue into November. Fall is a great time to prune because there is less damage to plant material. Fall is also a great time to reshape or thin out plant material.

Landscape crews will be very busy with leaf cleanup and other fall debris. All this will require more work in our street and sidewalk areas. Please be aware, use caution, and adhere to signage when you see our landscape team members. Remember they are here for the community and its residents to make Issaquah Highlands a great place to live. Over the next two months, Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) staff will install groundcover, trees, and plants in various locations. Crews will also start soil and sod replacement in many of our sunken or damaged landscape areas to eliminate possible hazards. The IHCA, along with our contractors, will also work on cleanup of the various ponds throughout the community.

To avoid fires, generators cannot be installed inside your home or garage. You must also submit documentation of the decibel sound level (must be below 75 dBA). Send the application to blair.k@ihcommunity.org. There is quick approval and no fee.

Photo by Julie Clegg

IRRIGATION: Irrigation staff was very busy this summer with many repairs and problems. There seemed to be more water line breaks, broken sprinklers, and pump failures than usual. We don’t have an explanation for the increase in issues since no significant system changes were made; it was just “one of those years.” Now that the weather has cooled off a little, we have started work on system upgrades. Irrigation crews will work in various areas of the community doing piping, sprinkler, and valve upgrades in order to keep the system working well. I will work on the completion of our Toro Sentinel system, which allows us to monitor and control our many irrigation systems remotely. We can also use this system to cut down on field repair hours due to remote access to each controller. Instead of driving to each controller, crews can stay at the site of the repair and stay on task. The crew loves the new system; it is far easier to use and cuts down on labor hours and travel time over the site. Be sure to get outside and enjoy the nice weather because it will be cold soon.

Have a question for the IHCA? We are here to help! Submit your question using the "Ask the IHCA" form online at https://www.issaquahhighlands.com/ask-the-ihca or call the IHCA at (425) 427-9257.

Accounting: Independent Auditor’s Report Returns Clean

by Kristyn McKinnon IHCA Accounting Manager

The Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) completed and received another “clean” audit (unqualified opinion) from our independent auditors, Newman & Company, C.P.A. The audit report states that the IHCA’s financial statements for the fiscal year, ending on June 30, 2020, fairly present the financial position of the association and are in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. We continue to maintain strong accounting controls over the IHCA’s fiscal health and are committed to maintaining and providing complete and accurate financial reports in accordance to state and federal laws.

We are actively preparing for the completion of this community’s development. The end of the development will impact revenue and expenses, as well as appropriately funding reserve fund assets as required by the IHCA governing documents and in accordance with homeowner’s association state and federal regulations. The Newman & Company C.P.A. report cover letter is now posted on our website at https://www.issaquahhighlands.com/learn/ issaquah-highlands-community-associationihca/ihca-governing-documents. For a full copy of the report, please contact the IHCA office directly.

RULES REMINDERS

Decks, Patios, Porches Decks, patios, and porches are not to be used as storage areas. They must be kept neat, orderly, and free of moss or algae. Permissible items to be displayed or used on balconies, patios, and porches include outdoor furniture, unobtrusive patio lighting (not including holiday string lights), planters (artificial flowers/plants are prohibited), and barbecue grills. Furniture and patio lighting used on decks and patios shall be limited to a type especially designed and manufactured for outdoor use, kept orderly and in good repair and shall not unreasonably interfere with a neighbor’s view or vision.

Political Signage One political sign shall be permitted on a unit at a time; provided, the political sign shall not be more than 5-square-feet in size, be a maximum height of 4-feet if posted in the ground, be of professional quality and design, and not obstruct line of sight for any traffic or traffic signals and signage. The term “political sign” means a sign which advocates for one particular candidate, political party or ballot measure. The period in which political signs may be displayed shall be in accordance with state and local law. No political signs shall be placed on street frontages, common areas, facilities, or grounds.

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

STATE REP (R) DISTRICT 5

October 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

THE CHANGE WE NEED NOW! As your Representative, I will… FIGHT TO SAFELY REOPEN OUR ECONOMY and create new jobs. STAND WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT as the guardians of our public safety. OPPOSE NEW TAXES including those on capital gains and personal income. RESIST POLICIES FROM SEATTLE that harm our families and small businesses.

KenMoninski.com Paid for by Friends of Ken 2020 25436 277th St. SE, Maple Valley, WA 98038

Safety is our top priority So much has changed in recent months and maintaining your health now is just as important as ever. Your health and safety continue to be our top priorities and we have protocols in place to keep patients and caregivers safe in our hospitals and clinics. SCREENING. We conduct routine coronavirus symptom screening on patients, visitors and employees. MASKING. Our facilities have adopted policies that align with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Find connection and joy

DISTANCING. We’re taking steps to ensure appropriate distance between you and other patients, visitors and staff.

IN EXTRAORDINARY TIMES

SENIOR LIVING THAT CONSIDERS YOUR NEEDS & DESIRES ESSENTIAL University House Issaquah features gardens ideal for outdoor gatherings, technology to help you connect, and a variety of stimulating virtual and distanced activities. Schedule a virtual tour or learn more (425) 200-0331 | eraliving.com Ask about special beneﬁts for

members.

5 STARS

HIGHEST R ATING FOR

QUALIT Y BY CMS (CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES)

SANITIZING. Our staff are regularly cleaning waiting areas and exam rooms in between visits, and hand sanitizer stations are located throughout our facilities. SEPARATING. COVID-19 patients, as well as those caring for them, are safely isolated from the rest of the population. VISITORS. We are limiting people coming into our facilities to those deemed essential. This helps maintain appropriate physical distancing and reduces spread of germs. VIRTUAL VISITS. For on-demand and routine medical care, we offer virtual visits — a reliable way to see your provider from the comfort your own home. To learn more about Swedish safety protocols, visit www.swedish.org.

SWEDISH ISSAQUAH 751 NE Blakely Drive, Issaquah, WA 98029 425-313-4000 swedish.org/issaquah

Issaquah Highlands Connections

October 2020

SMART HOME

Highlands Fiber Network Through COVID-19 Issaquah Highlands was one of the earliest fiber communities, a true pioneer. Since the start, Highlands Fiber Network (HFN) has received numerous upgrades to maintain quality and to continue delivering state-ofthe-art service. While most improvements go unnoticed, recent updates may have gotten your attention. Prior to the pandemic, HFN had a number of network improvements in the works, one of which was a project by Jeremy Fallt to effectively double the ingress/egress capacity of the HFN General Manager network in and out of our community. Even though our network projections didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t show us needing the additional capacity for a number of years, this project was started in January 2020 to be ahead of the curve and upgrade our link to Seattle. Then the pandemic hit, and everything changed. Seemingly overnight, our network was being used like never before. Between working from home, sheltering in place, and moving schooling online, our network was stressed as no one could have predicted. Thankfully, we were nearing completion of our capacity upgrade and just a few days away from bringing it online when the community hit our networkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s max capacity. Instead of being able to test our new uplink, we threw it right into production and unfortunately, many of you experienced some slow or down times as we ironed out the wrinkles. We are very thankful for our partners at IsoFusion who got everything resolved as quickly as possible so we could measure our issues in hours and minutes, not days and weeks. Amazingly, since the pandemic started, we have seen our network usage nearly double, holding steady since April. Another upgrade we had started was to our network to enable residents at Starpoint and Ashford at Vista Park to upgrade to gigabit speeds. We were able to complete our upgrades for Starpoint in March, but unfortunately, our upgrades for Vista Park were put on hold as we followed COVID-19 protocols and postponed work for a few months. I am happy to report we have turned up our first gig customer there and are open for upgrade requests in all three buildings. This time last year, we had 267 gigabit customers. We now have an additional 200, many upgrading after the pandemic hit. Many thanks go to our partners at Cannon Construction and IsoFusion for adjusting to this new norm, from continuing to adopt to new standards of PPE and workplace safety measures, to adjusting schedules to allow for more gigabit upgrades per week. We previously only scheduled a maximum of three upgrades per week, but thanks to our partner's hard work and dedication, we were able to bump that up to seven gigabit upgrades per week (and still have a hard time keeping up with demand).

Cannon Construction employees, John and Arvin, work running fiber jumpers in the data center for a gig upgrade. Photo provided by Jeremy Fallt.

These times have been challenging for all of us as we adjust to new norms. Our thoughts go out to all those who have been directly affected by this pandemic. Know HFN is continually striving to be a great resource for this community, as many of us are still working/schooling from home and adjusting to life as best we can. Please stay safe, stay healthy, and keep wearing those masks.

Highlands Fiber Network: Fiber to the Home, Community Owned For rates and information, contact Highlands Fiber Network Customer Service: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week highlandsfibernetwork.com (425) 427-0999 support@hfnservices.com https://www.highlandsfibernetwork.com/support John and Arvin of Cannon Construction worked earlier this year to install free WiFi in Village Green Park.

October 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

SCHOOL SPOTLiGHT | October Issaquah School District issaquah.wednet.edu

written and produced by Tracie Jones, Wisteria Park Resident

Issaquah Schools Foundation Supports All Students

Partnering with the Issaquah Schools Foundation (ISF) benefits students at all Issaquah School District schools. Donating to the foundation gives kids opportunities to explore and cultivate interests, thrive academically, and graduate with necessary skills for rewarding and productive futures. Consider: $10/month supports 44 students exploring STEM through robotics, rocketry, and sports medicine clubs; $25/month provides 30 books for school libraries, improving student access to print, the most successful way to improve reading success; $50/ month supplies 17 backpacks filled with supplies for those needing financial assistance. Learn more at http://isfdn.org.

October Dates 7 8 13 14 19 22 24-25

ParentWiser: Motivating Teens School Board Meeting End of First Trimester ParentWiser: Focus, Plan, Organize Teacher Workday – No School School Board Meeting Washington State PTA Convention

Join Your Friends at The Garage, NOW OPEN!

The Garage is a non-profit, drop-in space for high school teens; a safe space to hang out, grab coffee and a snack, play a game, listen to music, watch TV, and talk over homework. All events and food are free. Teens develop and produce all events and activities, under guidance and support from staff. The Garage social distances outside under canopies (rain or shine!), with masks, along with limited space indoors (5-student limit). Sign up to visit The Garage by going to IssaquahTeenCafe.setmore.com. Virtual Counseling: Garage counselors will remain virtual during our partial reopening. Book free virtual counseling sessions on Mondays and Tuesdays, by appointment. More info at http://www.issaquahteencafe.org.

Pass-the-Hat Fundraiser Still Have Computer Questions? PTSA’s Pass-the-Hat is the most important fundraiser of the year for many PTSAs/PTAs. Parents are asked to donate Contact ISD Tech Support

Lily Pinkston wears her mask when picking up school lunches with her mom at Issaquah High School.

Sign Up for ISD Remote Learning Free Meal Plans Issaquah School District (ISD) will offer student breakfast and lunch meals for free until at least December (or until federal funds run out). Students may pick up, or parents/guardians can pick up for all household students (ages 18 and under). Sign up each week; walk-ups may be accepted. When: Mondays and Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. (Pick up breakfast and lunch for three days on Mondays and pick up breakfast and lunch for two days on Thursdays.) Where: Issaquah High School, Liberty High School, Skyline High School, Endeavour Elementary School, Grand Ridge Elementary School, Issaquah Valley Elementary School, and Sunset Elementary School. Questions? Call ISD Food Services at (425) 837-5061.

IT Student Helpdesk: Call (425) 837-6371. Students/ families can call this line to receive support for schoolissued laptops, Office365 account access, Classlink account access, and missing power cords. Helpdesks are supported by Issaquah School District (ISD) school tech specialists and other IT staff members. Hotspot issues: Call T-Mobile's technical support for general questions and troubleshooting, 1-800-375-1126. Student tech request: New process for requesting tech equipment, including laptops, please email isdstudenttechhelp@issaquah.wednet.edu.

directly to student-centered programs, even more important during remote learning. (Bonus: 100% of donations stay within your home school.) These funds support a multitude of district, school, and communitywide programs, only made possible by PTSA efforts, volunteers, and your generous donations. Consider donating to continue educationally enriching programs, supporting all students. Issaquah School District PTSAs are 501(c)(3) organizations, therefore memberships and donations are 100% tax-deductible. To learn more, visit your local PTSA/PTA websites.

What Parents Want to Know About Issaquah School District

OSPI Guidelines for Reopening Washington State Schools 2020–21

Issaquah School District (ISD) Cultural and Family Partnerships helps culturally and linguistically diverse families learn more about schools. Due to COVID-19, translated resource links, general information, and contacts can be found online at https://issaquah.wednet. edu/family/cultural-and-family-partnerships. For FAQs on remote learning, visit https://issaquah.wednet.edu/ reopening/faq (translation services at top of page). Questions? Email Lorna Gilmour at gilmourl@issaquah.wednet.edu.

ParentWiser: You Can Do This! How to Motivate Teens to Get Stuff Done

Learn how to successfully motivate teens using Dr. Sharon Saline’s strength-based, collaborative approach. Instead of arguments and frustrations, increase buy-in, motivation, and successes. Discover effective, practical strategies helping families teach executive functioning skills and foster independence in their adolescents. Your teens will procrastinate less and get stuff done! Virtual Zoom conference on Wednesday, October 7, 1 p.m. For info and registration, visit https://www.parentwiser.org.

Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) announced guidelines for reopening Washington K-12 schools for this school year. OSPI understands school districts multi-faceted inability to offer in-person, school-based instruction, while trying to closely follow the Department of Health’s physical distancing and safety requirements. Ultimately, each district will independently adopt appropriate policies, best meeting their community’s distinct needs. As a result, countyby-county, district-by-district, education will look vastly different, based on the variable approaches in reopening state-wide classrooms. For more information on specific guidelines, visit https://www.k12.wa.us.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

October 2020

ASK KARI

Ask Kari! Dear Kari, Help! I am going crazy with everyone being home all the time. COVID-19 is making me lose my patience with everyone in my home. It seems like once I clean up an area of the house, someone walks in right behind me and messes things up again. I have asked for help, but no one steps up and does anything but me. What should I do? – Going Crazy Dear Going Crazy, I have great empathy for you and all the other families struggling with working from home, doing online school, and trying not to lose their tempers with each other. I suggest you plan a family meeting and invite everyone to attend. Attendance must be mandatory to make sure everyone is on the same page and hears the expectations for everyone in the household at the same time. Prior to the meeting, make a list of all the items that need to be done daily/weekly within your home. At the meeting, share the list of responsibilities with everyone and ask for volunteers for each item on the list. Remind everyone they must contribute to the household for everyone’s wellbeing, including yours. If family members are slow to volunteer, assign responsibilities to each person yourself. Make a copy of the completed chore list and post it in the kitchen area of your home, as well as in the bedrooms. Give the new system two weeks so everyone can adjust, then follow up with another family meeting to check in. Overall, please allow six months for your family to master the change you are bringing into your home. Remember, do not jump in and cover someone else’s responsibilities or you will end up right back at the starting point of your original struggle. Complaints will be part of the process, so practice gentle ears towards your loved ones and keep your eyes on the end goal of success with your new system. – Kari

by Kari O’Neill, MSW, LICSW Clinical Social Worker and Issaquah Highlands Resident

Dear Kari, I recently became unemployed because the business where I worked closed. I am 34 years old and I have always wanted to go to college and get my degree in education so that I can become a teacher. Should I try attempting my goal now or am I too old to reach this goal? What if I am the oldest student in my classes? I am scared to go for it because I have always worked in restaurants, not schools. What do you think I should do? – Dreaming of a New Life Dear Dreaming of a New Life, I am sorry to hear you lost your job because the business where you worked closed, but such moments in our life can help open us up to new opportunities. Yes, I do support you furthering your education and becoming a teacher. I strongly believe you will see a diverse age group in your college classes. By pursuing your education, you will grow yourself both personally and professionally, plus you will build a lifelong talent of teaching others, which should help with stabilizing your employment for the rest of your life. Go for it! – Kari

I love to hear from our readers! Email your "Ask Kari" questions to kari@ihcg.co. All questions will be answered in upcoming columns.

Kari O’Neill, MSW, LICSW, is a licensed independent clinical social worker and Issaquah Highlands resident. She is the longest running volunteer Connections writer, celebrating eight years of "Ask Kari" in 2020.

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.

2020 ELECTIONS: IMPORTANT DATES General Election Ballots Mailed Wednesday, October 14

Ballot Dropboxes Open Thursday, October 15

Deadline to Update Voter Registration Monday, October 26

Last Day to Return Ballots Tuesday, November 3 Dropboxes open until 8 p.m.

Last Day to Register in Person and Vote Tuesday, November 3

ELECTION DAY 2020 IS TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3

October 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

LIVING GREEN®

This Fall, Build an Eco-Friendly Insect Hotel Fall is one of my favorite seasons in the Pacific Northwest. Nature reveals so many colors, scents, and flavors. I see green, brown, and ochre. I smell pine, apples, and cinnamon. I taste pumpkins, pears, and sweet potatoes. by Aline Bloch Eco-Artist and Central Park Resident

It’s also the time of the year when I set up my garden for winter. And this year I decided to build an insect hotel. An insect hotel is a handmade structure made of recycled or upcycled materials that provides a safe shelter for insects.

Why should you build an insect hotel for your yard? Insects are an integral part of the ecosystem. Whether they are pollinators, predators, or parasites, each one has an important role to play. Insects are responsible for the pollination of about 80% of trees and bushes on the entire planet. They play a vital role in the decomposition of animal and plant matter, which is essential for the release of nutrients that are later used for growing plants. Many insects act as biological pest control in the vegetable garden. Some insects break down and recycle plant and animal waste and the bodies of dead animals. Some are an essential part of the food chain for birds, mammals, and fish. The management of insects, the ecosystem, and their interactions in a sustainable way, is crucial for the survival of all organisms. We must protect them. Some insect pollinators are solitary and don’t live in colonies, so they need a safe, warm, and dry place to build their nests and continue to live. In addition to being a great environmental project, an insect hotel is a great source of learning for adults and children of all ages. We are all afraid of what we do not know. Having an insect hotel will educate everybody about the crucial role insects have in the ecosystem. By building an insect hotel, we will be able to observe insects, learn about how they live, what they eat, and how they grow so we can get a better understanding of their role. It will also provide social interactions and outdoor activities. Where should you place an insect hotel? The best location to build an insect hotel is facing the morning sunrise, against the wind, next to flowers, gardens, or ponds. How do you build one? I'm sharing instructions and tips I received from my cousin, Richard and his wife, Lydie, who are rangers for the National Forests Office in France. Richard provided helpful diagrams of an insect hotel structure. Check them out online at https://www. issaquahhighlands.com/tag/living-green. To build the general structure, you'll need wooden boards for the sides, shelves, and roof. Be sure to use a resistant wood (like chestnut, larch, or Douglas fir) or bricks and stones for the structure. You'll also want to elevate your structure about 20 inches off the ground with wooden stakes or get creative (I used an old tree trunk).

Aline built her insect hotel in August and placed it in her backyard next to a tree. She looks forward to meeting her first "tenants" and observing them throughout the season. Photos by Aline Bloch.

What should you put inside? To furnish the insect hotel, use a wide range of reclaimed natural materials. • Old wooden pallets • Flowerpots: Place these on different angles between the different layers. Leave some pots empty and fill others with straw, leaves, or sand. • Dead wood, logs, branches, and twigs: These are great to poke into small areas and children will be able to lift up the logs to hopefully reveal centipedes and woodlice. • Hollow pipes, tubes, and bamboo canes: The different sized pipes will create nesting areas for a wide range of different creatures. • Dry leaves and loose bark: Add both to the insect hotel. For best results, add in the lower areas of each section as this is suitable for spiders, beetles, and hibernating ladybugs that prefer to stay close to the ground. Kids will love building their own insect hotel. Try it, start small, and share your projects with us! Email your photos, along with your name and neighborhood, to vicki.g@ihcouncil.org to be featured on issaquahhighlands.com. Your photos may also be shared to our official social media.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

October 2020

HOME ORGANIZATION

Your Organized Life Create a Guest Space Your Guests Will Love

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

This month, we're diving into how to create more inviting (and less cluttered) guest spaces. Whether it is a designated room, an open loft, or a corner of a larger room, taking a little extra care to make your guests feel welcome can go a long way.

When purchasing furniture for a guest room, try to purchase multi-purpose pieces. For example, the top of a chest of drawers can have a tray with a Keurig or electric kettle, a basket of tea and coffee, as well as packaged snacks for those late nights when your guests may not want to venture down to your kitchen. A nightstand with extra shelves and a few baskets can provide more storage space, and a mirror above a small desk can act as an office space for remote work or school, as well as a vanity to get ready for the day.

While it is great to utilize extra space in spare rooms, they can become overwhelmed with unneeded items (think “out of sight, out of mind”).

Another multi-use solution, especially for smaller spaces, is a convertible sofa bed with a chaise that houses extra bedding and pillows. This is an all-in-one solution for sleeping, lounging, and storage.

Start by taking everything out of your guest space and sort using our “toss, keep, donate” process. Of the items you chose to keep, relocate anything that already has a place in your home. For the rest, use underbed storage containers and bins for the top shelf of your closet. This frees up hanging space while providing the extra storage you need. Once the room is free of clutter and your storage is contained, look at the layout of the room. Sometimes moving things around can give spaces a larger, more open feel. Be sure to allow as much natural light as possible. For darker or smaller spaces, consider repainting or adding a lighter accent wall with removable wallpaper. When considering the furniture, think about what comforts are missing. Do you have a nightstand or bedside table? How about a chest of drawers so your guests have a place to unpack? A comfortable chair in the corner of the room or a small desk can also be a nice touch.

Now for the finishing touches! Start with freshly laundered bedding. Think about purchasing a few quality sheet sets, a mid-weight down alternative comforter, and an extra blanket for chilly nights. As we all know, laying down in a comfortable bed after a long trip is heavenly. Be sure to provide more pillows than you think you’ll need, with zippered covers so they stay nice and fresh. Add potted plants or flowers to different areas of the room. A chest of drawers can also house fluffy white towels and toiletries in a basket that can be taken to and from the bathroom. Next to the bed, be sure to have a lamp, an alarm clock, a few books or magazines, and a pen and pad of paper. Print out your WiFi password and display it in a cute frame or on a small chalkboard. I hope these tips help you to create the kind of guest room that keeps family and friends coming back to stay again and again. Next month, I'll share tips on how to organize one of my favorite areas of the home: the pantry and the kitchen.

TIPS FOR CREATING A

Welcoming Guest Space Remove clutter

Use freshly laundered bedding

Bring in natural light

Provide extra pillows

Include all the necessary comforts

Decorate with potted plants or flowers

Furnish with multi-purpose pieces

Stock the bedside table Display your WiFi password

A nightstand can hold guest room essentials, like a lamp and a pen and paper, as well as provide extra storage options for guests. Photo by Johnna Masterson.

October 2020

Highlands Council wants to showcase your business! Each month, we will choose one Issaquah Highlands-based business to profile in our print and digital media, for free! Selected Merchants of the Month will receive: • Printed profile in one monthly issue of Connections • Feature on Merchant of the Month web page with link to your business site • Feature in one weekly official Issaquah Highlands e-letter • One shoutout on official Issaquah Highlands Facebook and Twitter Questions? Contact Nina Milligan, Highlands Council Business Outreach and Services Manager at nina.m@ihcouncil.org.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Outdoor Sport Academy Steven Freygang, Founder and CEO

About the business: After 15 years of coaching and leading youth sport programs, Steven felt like there was a better way to help students learn and grow through sports. Outdoor Sport Academy features outdoor sport teams for middle and high school students including trail running, rock climbing, ski mountaineering, and more. What do you find most rewarding about this business? Steven: Teaching, inspiring, and challenging students to become great athletes and confident leaders through outdoor sports. I believe in the potential of every student to become a championship athlete, regardless of age or ability. Contact: (206) 450-8679 sfreygang@outdoorsportacademy.com outdoorsportacademy.com

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

Issaquah Highlands Connections

October 2020

DOING BUSINESS

A New Way to Self-Care Focus on Your Personal Health at New Business in Grand Ridge Plaza

by Kim Ngo Crofton Springs Resident

If you are a fitness enthusiast, an unexpected telecommuter, or even a parent navigating remote learning (admittedly, I’m all three), you might find yourself needing some selfcare. Restore Hyper Wellness + Cryotherapy, located in Grand Ridge Plaza, offers a multitude of therapeutic services meant to elevate your body to its optimal level of health.

Restore’s services include compression, IV drip, infrared light, hyperbaric oxygen, stretch base, and cryotherapy. You can choose to schedule a simple three-minute whole body cryotherapy service or spend an entire day restoring your body with services from their expansive menu of treatments. Some treatments are also available for children. I initially met with Serene Fraser, one of six registered nurses at Restore, and Ryan Foran, assistant manager of the Issaquah Highlands location. Serene, a working mother of two, revealed her fun, yet relaxing bedside manner when answering my numerous questions about the benefits of each service without overwhelming me with medical terminology. Ryan, a trail runner and kayaker, told me he could not be more excited to be in Issaquah Highlands because of the unique needs of our community.

Serene (left), a registered nurse and Ryan (right), assistant manager, are ready to help Issaquah's active residents with a range of treatments offered by Restore Hyper Wellness + Cryotherapy. Photo by Kim Ngo.

“The residents [of Issaquah Highlands] have an active outdoor lifestyle that make it worthwhile for them to visit Restore,” Ryan said.

After riding 30 miles along the John Wayne Pioneer Trail on a 95-degree day, I spent three minutes in the ice chamber and found this treatment alleviated my joint pain, rejuvenated my energy levels, and cooled me down despite the heat wave.

Location Grand Ridge Plaza 1520 Highlands Dr NE Suite 100 (Next to Verizon)

Serene, Ryan, and the rest of the staff were so personable, I decided to experience some of what Restore has to offer firsthand.

Restore also works with local naturopaths, chiropractors, personal trainers, and fitness studios.

Note from the editor: Opinions expressed are solely those of the author. No goods or services were provided to the author or Highlands Council by Restore Hyper Wellness + Cryotherapy in exchange for this article.

As an avid mountain biker and backcountry patron, I decided to try Restore’s most popular service: whole body cryotherapy. According to their website, this cold therapy treatment can reduce inflammation and boost metabolism while revitalizing the body’s natural healing process.

“Restore is a holistic spa for your insides,” Serene said. I agree. In fact, I went back the next day for an IV drip and a cryofacial to further undo the countless sun-drenched hours spent on Tiger Mountain and at Lake Sammamish this summer.

October 2020

RENTAL FACILITIES

DIRECTORY NOTE: Offices are slowly reopening in accordance with the state's Safe Start program. Contact staff members by email or call each office's main line to confirm office hours and staff availability.

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

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

Property Management Enforcement of CCRs, Rules, Regs Architectural Review Common Area Landscape

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

Funded by:

Annual IHCA Assessments Neighborhood Assessments

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

MAIN PHONE: 425-507-1107 | IssaquahHighlands.com Governing Body

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

Funded by:

Sponsorships/Grants & Advertising Community Enhancement Fees (1/4 of 1% on sale of home) Retail/Commercial pays by the square foot, Rental Apartments by the door Christy Garrard, Executive Director | christy.g@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1110 Nina Milligan, Business Outreach and Services Manager | nina.m@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1111 Michele McFarland, Controller | michele.m@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1108 Lindsey Pinkston, Community Program Manager | lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1109 Vicki Grunewald, Media Editor | vicki.g@ihcouncil.org Katie Cannon, Graphic Designer and Social Media Coordinator | katie.c@ihcouncil.org * Excluding holidays and private event closures.

HIGHLANDS FIBER NETWORK

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

Governing Body: Board of Directors Charlie Herb, President Larry Norton, Vice President Allen Enebo, Treasurer Tim Underwood, Secretary

Howard Kapustein, Director David Ngai, Director Frank Pineau, Director

Blakely Hall is Issaquah Highlands’ award-winning community center that feels like a luxury lodge. With a variety of meeting, art & dining spaces, an outdoor patio, and adjacent park, it accommodates groups from 5 -200. See BlakelyHall.com for more information or contact us with your questions.

Fire Station #73 Meeting Room Homestreet Bank

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

YWCA Family Village

HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

Blakely Hall Social Programs Community Garden Connections Newspaper IssaquahHighlands.com BlakelyHall.com E-Letter Official Social Media

Blakely Hall

2550 NE Park Drive 425-507-1107 | info@blakelyhall.com | BlakelyHall.com

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

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

Responsible for:

Issaquah Highlands Connections

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

CONNECTIONS WINNER 2020 Neighborhoods, USA Non-Profit Print Newsletter of the Year! Connections: By Community, For Community Connections is a nationally recognized monthly community newspaper written mostly by volunteer-resident writers, edited and published by Highlands Council. Connections helps Highlands Council fulfill its mission to develop a vibrant and caring community committed to service, diversity, stewardship and well-being. Join the Connections Team Highlands Council is always looking for volunteer contributors. Contact Lindsey Pinkston, Community Program Manager, at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org. Submit an Announcement for “Milestones” See your announcements published in the new life “Milestones” section of Connections. We accept birth/adoption, graduation, marriage, obituary and culturally-recognized life milestone announcements for Issaquah Highlands residents only. See submission form and guidelines at IssaquahHighlands.com. Interested in Advertising in Connections? For more information, contact Nina Milligan, Business Outreach and Services Manager, at nina.m@ihcouncil.org. More information, ad packets/pricing, editorial calendar at issaquahhighlands.com/connect/connections-news. Opinions expressed either by paid advertisers or editorial content do not necessarily reflect the views of Highlands Council or this newspaper. Highlands Council reserves the right to accept or refuse submissions, and to edit content. We also reserve the right to refuse advertising or content that in our opinion does not reflect the standards of this paper.

GET INVOLVED Getting more involved in our community is a fun and easy way to meet people and contribute to the participatory culture of Issaquah Highlands. Visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer for more information or contact Lindsey at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org or 425-507-1109.

  

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

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

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

Issaquah Highlands Connections

October 2020

Pragmatic leadership for the Issaquah Highlands 9

New turf fields at Central Park

Revitalizing Lake Sammamish State Park

New paved parking lot at Tiger Mountain High Point trailhead

Increased education funding for the Issaquah school district and much, much more...

Join our campaign: electmarkmullet.com Facebook: /electmarkmullet Paid For By Elect Mark Mullet (D) 2520 NE Park Drive Issaquah, WA, 98029 Coupon expires November 3rd, 2020

October 2020

Issaquah Highlands Connections

The Market Is Hot, The Time To List Is Now! Listing commissions starting at 1%, 2% and 3% options too Newto Listing! Upgrade Harrison! 2603 DaphneDrive St 3566 NENE Harrison

Just Listed! Pending!

SOLD/Multiple Offers! Pending! Pending Multiple Offers!

$775,000 MLS#1595809 $1,175,000 MLS#163692

$2,495,000 MLS#1583844 $875,000 $560,000 MLS#1584625 MLS#1577330

1880 25th Ave NE 3566 Harrison Way 2024 25th Ave NENE

1915 2585Kensington 20th Ave NECt.

LowerSqft level rec. room 3 Bed + Loft / 3.75 Bath / 3,210 / Green Belt

4 Bed / 3.75 Bath / 4,269 Sqft

SOLD/Multiple SOLD! Offers!

SOLD/Multiple SOLD! Offers! 2773 NE Magnolia Street 1621 30th Ave NE

$2,630,000 $1,358,000

MLS # 1583844 MLS#1657951

4 Bed + Bonus Room / 2.5 Bath / 3,520 Sqft / Immaculate Buchan SOLD/Multiple SOLD! Offers!

1873 Kenyon Ct 1717 NE 25th Walk NE

$700,000 $489,000

194332nd 12th CtWay NE 2048 2492 NE Ivy Ave NE

$$775,000 $1,880,000

MLS#1581263 MLS#1627741

$695,000 $989,000 $725,000

MLS#1600080 MLS#1567289 MLS#1554117

4 Bed / 4.5 Bath / 4,330 Sqft / Big View Home

3 Bed / 2.5 Bath / 1,535 Sqft / Amazing Value and Location

Sold for $35,000 Over List Price! SOLD! SOLD! 1489 29th Ln Pl NE 27th NE 16091733 Huckleberry Circle

SOLD/Multiple Offers! All Cash SOLD!Sale! 1880 24th 25thJulep Ave 1545 Ave NE NE 2587 NE St

1546 Ave Lane NE 2430 NE24th Iverson

$1,525,000 MLS#1554791 $775,000 $565,000 MLS#1504969 MLS#1620257

$30,000 Over List!MLS#1623953 MLS#1518922 $560,000 MLS#1577330 $775,000

MLS#1551921 MLS#1626859

2 Bed / 2 Bath / 1,396 Sqft

2 Bed / 1 Bath / 1,050 Sqft / Crofton Springs

SOLD!Sale! All Cash

$1,191,000 $785,000

MLS#1604864 MLS#1524988

4 Bed / 2.5 Bath / 3,660 Sqft

3 Bed / 2.5 Bath / 1,630 Sqft / Corner Lot

CALL (206) 890-6347 TO BUY OR SELL A HOME Cosmetic Remodeling Listing Prep Preferred placement onforZillow & Trulia Fast Listing Prep Open Houses/Brokers Open All Unlimited Weather Color Permaflyer Flyers Individualized Property Website Social Media Campaign Full Internet Exposure for your listing Professional HDR photography Virtual Home Tour Aerial drone photography 2 Listing Agents = Highest Level of Service Open Houses/Brokers Open Aerial drone photography

Direct Buy Program for a pain free sale! Professional in/out cleaning as client gift Free stagingmove consultation Free staging consultation Zero pressure, 100% friendly, in home consultation Zero pressure, 100% friendly, in home designed to inform you about yourconsultation options designed to inform you about your options Local office next to SIP! Whole house staging Whole house staging Professional video production with narration Professional video production with narration Zillow video walk through Zillow video walk through RELOCATION CERTIFIED SIRVA, CARTUS, ALTAIR & MORE RELOCATION CERTIFIED SIRVA, CARTUS, ALTAIR & MORE

Krista Mehr

Lynn Crane

Joey Dalupan

Krista Owen

Lisabet de Vos

Owner/Broker

Broker

Broker/Handyman

Broker

lynncrane.re@gmail.com

jdalupan@hotmail.com

206.890.6347

kristamehr@gmail.com

425.241.3225

206.437.0142

425.891.1545

photogbykrista@live.com

206.482.7211

ldv@lisabetdevosre.com

Carla Domingues Broker

425.614.6834

carlad47@outlook.com

Visit our NEW Issaquah Highlands Office located at 1114 NE Park Dr. - right next next to to SIP SIP Wine Wine Bar Bar