Summer - Snoqualmie Ridge ROA
Transcription
Summer - Snoqualmie Ridge ROA
Summer 2015 Our Outdoor Spaces Yard of the Month page 7 Artificial Turf: Just the Facts page 13 Trees, Drought and the Long Hot Summer page 14 Container Gardening page 15 News You Can Use City of Snoqualmie News Let Us Introduce You Events Recap The Value of Collaboration page 6 page 8 Upcoming Events page 10 Wags & Wine page 11 page 2 Meet the Candidates page 4 Resident Spotlight page 12 Director’s Letter SNOQUALMIE RIDGE RESIDENTIAL OWNERS ASSOCIATION 7713 Center Blvd. SE, Suite 100 Snoqualmie, WA 98065 phone: (425) 396-5430 e-mail: [email protected] fax: (425) 396-5432 www.RidgeROA.com STAFF Amy Atchison Director [email protected] Kayte Beatie Community Manager [email protected] Jules Binder Communications Manager [email protected] Rhonda Harder Office Manager [email protected] Connie Harrington Accounting Manager [email protected] Jacki Jones Outreach Manager [email protected] Graphic Design/Layout Brin Hamilton www.brinhamiltonphotography.com Printing aaa Printing www.aaa-printing.com © Copyright 2015 Snoqualmie Ridge ROA 2 Snoqualmie Ridge ROA Newsletter The Value of Collaboration I’ve said it multiple times, (and I hope you have heard me Y), there are MANY things I’ve come to appreciate during my tenure at the Association. At the top of the list is the value of collaboration. I’m writing this after just working at my ninth ROA hosted 4th of July Community Celebration. My post-4th reflection has been centered on the deep gratitude I feel for the many community organizations that partner with us on this huge event – which would not happen without their generous support. Collaboration is important in all aspects of our life. Humans have a “pack mentality” and we depend on those around us – in our personal life, at work, in our neighborhoods and across the country – while navigating our life journey. The Association is no different. We look to key community partners for support, feedback, information, and even on occasion a little “TLC”. Following is a salute to our key collaborators in recognition of their value to the Association. Snoqualmie Police and Fire Departments The focus of these organizations is on public safety, and so our staff of six looks to them for direction when residents have safety concerns. The Ridge is fortunate to have strong, communitycentered leadership with Chief McCulley at the Police department and Chief Correira at the Fire department. We often share resident input between us to ensure that complaints and concerns are handled appropriately and consistently. While the ROA cares deeply about the safety of the Snoqualmie Ridge residents, we are not the correct office to guarantee your safety. When public safety is involved, we always suggest you contact the police/fire departments directly. We will also pass concerns on ourselves if we are receiving a lot of calls on an issue, or we feel the matter warrants extra attention. Outside of direct communication about specific issues, our offices calendar regular meetings to make sure communication channels stay open and we are all aware of any pressing concerns within the community. TPC (Tournament Players Club) The TPC or just “Club” to many, has been a strong and consistent partner with the ROA through the years. They have opened their doors to host neighborhood socials, pool parties and golf tournaments, donated prizes for events, and worked hard to be accessible to the Association membership. This is a premier golf club, with world class greens, amazing dining facilities, and a beautiful pool area, but they are also our neighbors. TPC management has a solid perspective on their role in the community and actively looks for ways to collaborate with the Association to demonstrate their genuine care for Snoqualmie residents. We are always grateful and appreciative for the opportunity to partner with them. City of Snoqualmie We are deeply entwined with the City as upwards of 85% of the Snoqualmie population resides on the Ridge, making the Association an important avenue for City personnel to connect with their constituency. The City and Association actively discuss how development of the community impacts us both, as well as how to best serve the residents of Snoqualmie Ridge. As a result of these conversations we have partnered on large landscape improvements in the neighborhood, and developed common strategies for natural resource conservation. We share responsibility for a myriad of matters within the Ridge, from drainage and asphalt maintenance to Design Guideline interpretation and event marketing. The City owns and maintains 90% of the parks in our community, and the Association maintains a large percentage of the City-owned public right of way streetscapes. Regular meetings between City management and the Association staff tackle broad issues to specific concerns, are loud, productive and always fun. The City and Association staff value the way we work together, and are ever mindful about tending our relationship to ensure our collaboration remains positive and beneficial to the citizens of Snoqualmie. Local Businesses and Organizations The 4th of July celebration, where 100’s of volunteers from many organizations join our small staff of six to serve the Snoqualmie community, and generous sponsors allow us to host the “party of our dreams”, reflects the importance of our collaboration with local merchants and organizations. (Please see a list of our 4th of July sponsors on page 9). Whether they provide a small favor, a generous donation, a room to host a meeting, or just come alongside us with a few bodies to help at a function, we are grateful for their support and continually seek ways to return the favor. Local businesses and organizations strongly contribute to the vibrancy of our community: this is not lost on our office and we appreciate opportunities to support them. Association Members All of you, the Association members, are our most important and vital collaborator. YOU definitely keep us busy, sometimes confuse us, often make us smile, occasionally make us feel a bit anxious, but always leave us grateful that we have a community to serve! YOU are the volunteers that organizations rally to help us at events; YOU are the bodies that fill our neighborhood socials, committee meetings and other functions with laughter and conversation; YOU are the folks that volunteer for the Board, on Committees, for the Garden Tour and attend the annual meeting; YOU make modifications on your home, ask questions, sell/buy properties and ASK MORE questions that keep us busy, engaged and informed. We can’t thank you enough for making it so dang interesting to come to work each day! The Association staff values you and is committed to positive collaborations with YOU. I’ll leave you with this quote from funny, but insightful Amy Poehler: “As you navigate through the rest of your life, be open to collaboration. Other people and other people’s ideas are often better than your own. Find a group of people who challenge and inspire you, spend a lot of time with them, and it will change your life.” Our collaborations with community partners are all different but equally important. Relationships are hard work but you get what you give and so we are committed to always seeking ways to improve our partnerships. Our key collaborators are smart, helpful, kind and do teach us a lot. For that we are grateful! Enjoy the end of your summer and please make time to connect in your community. With that in mind, I hope to see you at the annual community picnic on September 12th! Credit/Debit Card Transaction Fees begin October 1st Since introducing the credit/debit card payment option last Spring, the ROA has absorbed all service fees associated with credit and debit card transactions. Beginning October 1, 2015, the ROA will charge a service fee of 3.5% for all credit and debit card transactions in order to partially recover our processing costs. Please make note of this change. www.RidgeROA.com 2015 Summer 3 Meet The Candidates Board Candidate Statement Kamran Mostofi Board Candidate Statement Larry D. Fischer, Incumbent I am a local on the Ridge now for nearly a decade and I love it. I love everything about this community — from the view as we drive in coming down the parkway to the plethora of children and their parents outside playing until the late hours. My wife Jenna and I have 3 kids, one more since the last time I ran for office. My son, Karston is 4 and my two daughters, Kensington and Kennedy, are 2 and 6 months. I would like to thank the residents of Snoqualmie Ridge for electing me to serve as a Member of their Board for the past two years and as Treasurer this year. I would like your support to continue in this position. I will use my acquired knowledge and experience of this Association to maintain the high quality of life we all expect from our community. Every parent wants the best for their kids, as do I. Getting involved to help build, preserve and protect the community you love is my “why”. I have a degree from the UW in Geographical Economics and I have spent the last 11 years in real estate, from building towers in Dubai to selling local real estate here in Snoqualmie helping families find the home of their dreams. I truly “live” here. I find so much joy in our town. I coached my niece’s soccer team here in Snoqualmie for three years. I play soccer every week with our community and my kids too. My wife and I go on walks regularly into town to grab coffee and dine at our favorite Mexican restaurant, thanks to Ana! My entire family now has homes here, from my parents to my brother and sister and their respective families with 10 children between us all. Family dinners are quite often and quite loud. This is home! I saw a statistic a couple years ago that Snoqualmie Ridge is the #1 township with kids per household in the U.S. I love our town! I like to get involved, I like to help. I care about the “what” as much as the “why”. With the expansion of the Ridge and the many new homes being built I want to be an ear for our community first and a voice second. My other community service activities include being Treasurer of the Rotary Club of Snoqualmie Valley, a member of the Snoqualmie Economic Development Commission and working as a volunteer to restore stained glass windows on railway cars for the Northwest Railway Museum in Snoqualmie. My wife, Linda, and I have been visiting The Ridge frequently since 2000 when our daughter and her husband bought a new home here. We watched the progress, growth and maturity of the area and decided to relocate here to enjoy the quality of life and to participate in our grandchildren’s activities. We have lived in multi-phased HOA’s, as well as a two-phase condominium complex for 13 years before purchasing our home here in 2011. For most of that period I was President or Vice President of the HOA Board and Linda was in charge of landscape maintenance and upgrades. My background and experiences working for Pacific Northwest Bell, AT&T and US West include leading management and non-management work groups, forecasting and developing company operating budgets (totaling approximately $2B/year in today’s dollars), and building new operating units to increase productivity and reduce costs. Our opportunity going forward is to continue to grow our community both in numbers and the overall family experience that we offer, while balancing the economic and social challenges that come with growth. I believe that I offer the experience, passion and love for the neighborhood that is needed as a board member. This work experience and training has enabled me to be an independent consultant for over 20 years. I am a Certified Disaster Recovery Planner and a Fellow of the Business Continuity Institute. Industries served include communications, health care, aerospace, military, financial and manufacturing. Thank you for your consideration and I will be happy to provide any additional details you may need. Kamran Mostofi, [email protected] Larry Fischer, [email protected] VOTE for the 2016-2017 Resident Seat (Class A) Board of Director Voting open August 5 – September 10 4 VOTE electronically: www.RidgeROA.com, click Association Business/VOTE tab Snoqualmie Ridge ROA Newsletter Drop off or mail your ballot: Snoqualmie Ridge ROA 7713 Center Blvd. SE, Suite 100 Snoqualmie, WA 98065 Board Candidate Statement Justin Rodino Board Candidate Statement Eileen Fisher My name is Justin Rodino and I’d like to introduce myself as a candidate for the Residential Owners Association (ROA) Board of Directors. Hello - thank you for your consideration of my application as a Board member for the ROA. First off let me express how exciting it is to live on the Ridge and the pride I’d have serving on the Board. Since moving to the area in 2011 after living overseas, it’s amazing to see the growth, development, and culture that has come to the place that many of us get to call home. I’ve been blessed enough to live in various countries around the world, including Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, and in the Channel Islands, but nowhere has excited me more than here in Snoqualmie. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in all kinds of industries from Retail to Hospitality, as well as most recently in the Technology industry. The various roles I’ve performed as both an employee, as well as my most recent role as a Director, have given me a solid background not only to understand the needs of people, but also has taught me how to communicate on an individual level that each person can understand and relate to. Additionally, my current role requires me to manage many different tasks and priorities, each competing for the same resources, which I have consistently delivered on time and within budget. Lastly, my passion for Board service is to help the people around me. As a volunteer firefighter, I know exactly what it means to serve, I know what challenges are, and most of all, I know this position exists to serve the community and is not just another bullet point on my resume. I kindly ask for your support and consideration. If you have any questions about myself, my background or my family, please send me an e-mail. I’d be happy to hear from you. I am a seasoned marketing and business professional. In addition to many of my professional experiences, I worked for Microsoft for 16 years of progressively more responsibility in my roles. I retired as a Director. I have managed people and process in many forms. My experience with HOA's is extensive. I ran the Avonlea HOA and the Lakemont Meadows HOA (condo neighborhood and high-end housing development). I was the President for both of these HOA's, forming both from "scratch" as the neighborhood was handed off from the developer. I have experience ranging from dealing with pet, yard and compliance issues, as well as negotiating (through an attorney) successfully to avoid a lawsuit against a builder. I am Founder and President for my own company, Fisher Consultants, focused on Branding for Technology Experts. I work out of my home and am flexible with my hours. I'm anxious to help and hope you will favorably consider my application. I would love the opportunity to talk with you further about the position. I am looking forward to hearing from you. Eileen Fisher, [email protected] Welcome! The ROA office is open Monday-Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm Justin Rodino, [email protected] 2015 ROA Board of Directors Mike Behn Declarant Appointed [email protected] Dave Dorothy Declarant Appointed [email protected] Larry Fischer Resident Seat [email protected] Kevin Hahm Declarant Appointed [email protected] Ruth Johnston Resident Seat [email protected] General Inquiries: [email protected] a Subject: Board ................... Committee Chairs Landscape Committee Jordan Cranwill [email protected] a Subject: Landscape Pet Committee Sher Bowman-Klug [email protected] a Subject: Pet Budget Committee David Heyting [email protected] a Subject: Budget www.RidgeROA.com Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (425) 775-1311 Report Street Light Outages via PSE “Lights Out” www.intolight.com (888) 225-5773 2015 Summer 5 City of Snoqualmie News Fall & Winter Events Preview The following community events are hosted by the City of Snoqualmie. August 17-23 Boeing Classic at the TPC Snoqualmie Ridge August 20 Outdoor Concert at Ridge & Center Amphitheatre August 21-23 Gigantic Bike Festival at Centennial Fields August 27 “The LEGO Movie” (PG) Snoqualmie Community Park August 29-30 Battle of Snoqualmie Civil War Reenactment at Meadowbrook Farm September 3 “Monsters University” movie (G) Snoqualmie Community Park September 12 CPR, AED, and First Aid Training at Snoqualmie Fire Department September 12 Fall Recycling Event at Centennial Fields October 24, 25, 31 Halloween Train at Historic Snoqualmie Depot October 31 Treat Harvest in Downtown Snoqualmie November 7 CPR, AED, and First Aid Training at Snoqualmie Fire Department November 28 December 19 Santa Train at Northwest Railway Museum December 5 Snoqualmie Tree Lighting and Holiday Festival in Historic Snoqualmie Sign Up for the City of Snoqualmie “City News” e-newsletter Get timely information about events (locations, times, updates), city classes and programs, sports for kids, public safety alerts, and city government business. E-mail [email protected]. R Accepting Applications for 10th Annual Citizens Academy The City of Snoqualmie invites you to attend “Citizens Academy”, a free 7-week course designed to give residents a first-hand look at how Snoqualmie’s government works. Students will learn: • What a Mayor-Council form of government is; • Where city revenues come from; • Where property taxes go; R 6 Snoqualmie Ridge ROA Newsletter • Who is responsible for capital planning; • How public safety programs are put into action; • How citizens can be more involved in the decisions that influence quality of life, and more. The sessions are led by Snoqualmie city leaders in an informal, interactive, and fun environment. Most sessions will be held on Wednesday evenings, beginning September 9. Some sessions will include tours of city facilities. Space for this course is limited so register now by contacting Jodi Warren at [email protected] or via phone at ................ (425) 888-1555, ext. 1118. R Help Snoqualmie Save Water Governor Jay Inslee has declared a statewide drought emergency due to a widespread lack of snowfall last winter which is directly impacting Snoqualmie. The Snoqualmie River flow is down 60%, while water consumption is much higher than this time last year. To reduce potential hardships from water shortages, conservation is critical. The City of Snoqualmie is taking action by limiting water use in parks, planting beds, and roadside bio-swales; increasing production of reclaimed water; identifying conservation opportunities with local businesses, and working towards optimizing irrigation. Please join us in supporting water conservation by following these easy steps to save water: • Install low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets; • Turn off water while brushing teeth, washing face, or shaving; • Plant native and drought-tolerant landscaping. • Additional tips are posted on the city website. For more information, please contact the Parks & Public Works Department at (425) 831-4919. Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training Plan ahead and register for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training October 3-31. Learn how you can help your family and neighbors in case of emergencies or disasters. CERT training will cover topics such as: R • • • • • Disaster preparedness and fire suppression Disaster medical operations Search and rescue Incident Command System Disaster psychology and terrorism The course concludes with a disaster simulation and drill. A schedule of session topics is available on the City of Snoqualmie Emergency Management website. To register, call (425) 888-1551 or e-mail [email protected]. Yard of the Month May Winner June Winner July Winner 6223 Whitaker Lane SE 36911 SE Braeburn Street 9224 Nye Avenue SE Thank you Northwest Landscape Services for generously providing each Yard of the Month winner with a gift certificate to Squak Mt. Nursery. To nominate a Yard of the Month, e-mail the address to: [email protected]. REMINDER: The ROA assessment was changed to an annual obligation last year. Your 2016 ROA Assessment will be due in full on January 1, 2016. ® • 2016 budget and assessment information will be sent to all owners in October 2015. ® • Once the budget is ratified by Association membership, specific information on the assessment amount and payment options will be provided. (early November 2015) ® ® ® • As 2016 budget and assessment information becomes available, it will be posted at www.ridgeroa.com. y Valley Sign up, stay informed & stay connected! FREE Haircut FREE with anyHaircut paid color service with any paid color service FREE Haircut ($45-$55 Value) ($45-$55 Value) with anyforpaid color Good first time clientsservice only. Good for($45-$55 first time only. Value) Not valid with otherclients offers. Expires 11/30/15. Not valid with Good other for offers. 11/30/15. first Expires time clients only. 10% OFF 10% OFF 10% OFF Not valid with other offers. Expires 11/30/15. Retail Products Retail Products Retail Products With coupon. Not valid other offers. With coupon. Notwith valid with otherExpires offers.11/30/15. Expires 11/30/15. With coupon. Not valid with other offers. Expires 11/30/15. Mens, Womens & Childrens 77217721 Center Blvd SE SE Womens & Childrens Mens, Mens, Womens & Childrens Center Blvd 7721 Center Blvd SE Hair Services • Facial Waxing Snoqualmie Ridge Hair Services • Facial Waxing Hair Services • Facial Waxing Snoqualmie Ridge Ear Piercing • Make-Up & Bridal Snoqualmie Ridge Ear Piercing • Make-Up & Bridal Ear Piercing • Make-Up & Bridal Open Mon 10-8, Tues. Wed. & Wed. Thurs&9-9, Open Mon 10-8, Tues. Thurs 9-9, www.acaciahairsalon.com 9-6, Sat 8-5, Sun 11-5 Open Fri Mon 10-8, Tues. Wed. & Thurs 9-9, www.acaciahairsalon.com Fri 9-6, Sat 8-5, Sun 11-5 425.396.7036 425.396.7036 425.396.7036 Fri 9-6, Sat 8-5, Sun 11-5 later than __/__/__ han __/__/__ ROA e-blast submit your e-mail address to [email protected] & begin receiving our weekly e-blast every Wednesday www.acaciahairsalon.com www.RidgeROA.com Rep’ s Signature: Rep’s Signature: 2015 Summer 7 Events Recap Annual YMCA on the Ridge Saturday, October 24 ~ 10am-1pm Join the YMCA and local Snoqualmie Ridge merchants for our Annual Trick or Treat on the Ridge Halloween event. Begin your adventure at the IGA, where you will pick up your passport and treat bag, and trick or treat through the Ridge. Collect prizes and stamps along the way and then finish your journey at the Y where you’ll enjoy carnival games, bounce houses and a special surprise! 24/7 Emergency Services Fast, Convenient, Expert Care We treat ANY emergency, ANY time. 425-831-2300 snoqualmiehospital.org 9801 Frontier Avenue SE, Snoqualmie Just off Snoqualmie Pkwy and I-90, via SE 99th St. 8 Snoqualmie Ridge ROA Newsletter The ROA Thanks Our Generous 2015 July 4th Partners Premier Red, White & Blue Level Sponsor Church on the Ridge Red Level Sponsor City of Snoqualmie White Level Sponsors Dr. Kirby Nelson My Cakes Ridge Supermarket IGA Snoqualmie Valley Hospital Waste Management Blue Level Sponsors Boeing Classic Cascade View Elementary School Encompass LifePointe Community Church New York Life Bellevue Office Pulte Homes Snoqualmie Ridge Storage Snoqualmie Valley YMCA Summit Classical Christian School The Cascade Team www.RidgeROA.com 2015 Summer 9 ROA Event Policies Upcoming Events •ROA event dates are subject to change. •If an event requires a participation fee, your account will be billed at time of registration. •ROA events requiring a participation fee are only for residents in good financial standing with the Association. •Cancellations for a full refund of participation fees will be accepted via e-mail up to 72 hours prior to event. E-mail [email protected], subject: “Event Cancellation” •In order to avoid late fees, event participation fees must be paid in the year they occur. Event details are available at www.RidgeROA.com under the Social Events tab. For your convenience, event registration fees can be paid with your credit or debit card. (A 3.5% transaction fee will apply beginning October 1st) Boeing Classic Ticket Distribution Saturday, August 15 10:00am to 2:00pm Monday – Thursday, August 17-20 10:00am to 12:00pm and 5:00pm to 7:00pm Snoqualmie Community Park 35016 SE Ridge Street Residents only; each household will receive four (4) complimentary Weekly General Admission Tickets. Tickets are for personal use ONLY. *Tickets are NOT available at the ROA office. Annual Meeting & Community Picnic Saturday, September 12 4:00pm to 6:30pm Snoqualmie Community Park 35016 SE Ridge Street Watch your mailbox for more details. Fall Community Garage Sale Friday & Saturday, September 18 & 19 9:00am to 4:00pm To participate, e-mail your street address to [email protected] and place a RED balloon in your front yard on the day of the sale. Donation trailers will be available at Community Park on: •Saturday, September 19 ~ 11:00am to 7:00pm •Sunday, September 20 ~ 9:00am to 5:00pm Snoqualmie Valley Block Party Saturday, September 19 12:00pm to 6:00pm Snoqualmie Ridge ~ Center Boulevard Don’t miss this FREE event filled with fun for the whole family! Enjoy live music, bounce houses, outdoor games, beer and wine gardens, and more! Like us on Facebook at “Snoqualmie Valley Block Party”. 10 Snoqualmie Ridge ROA Newsletter Pumpkin Picnic Saturday, October 3 11:00am to 3:00pm Remlinger Farms Cottonwood Grove Residents only; RSVP required by September 24 or until event is full. $10 per person; children 12 months & under enjoy free admission. Rain or shine event! Monday Night Football Party Seattle Seahawks v. Detroit Lions Monday, October 5 5:00pm to 9:00pm TPC Snoqualmie Ridge HAWKS fans – come show your team spirit! RSVP required by September 29 or until event is full. $15 per person; must be 21 and older to attend. Fall Neighborhood Socials Wednesday, October 7 Wednesday, November 11 7:00pm to 9:00pm TPC Snoqualmie Ridge October Social for neighbors in: Abbey Road, Bandera, Braeburn, Crestview, Eagle Lake, Eagle Nest, Edgeview, Ironwood, Koinonia Ridge, Palisades and Woody Creek. November Social for neighbors in: Aster Creek, Cascade Ridge, Deer Park, Eagle Pointe, Mt. Si Cottages and Ridgestone. Invitations will be mailed in advance of the socials. Night on a Dark Trail Friday & Saturday, October 9 &10 6:30pm to 9:00pm Snoqualmie Valley Hospital East Campus $10 per person; proceeds benefit the Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank. Volunteers are cheerfully welcomed. We need actors, dancers, musicians, artists, stage crew, scene writers, tech support, concession sales and more! Contact us via nightonadarktrail.weebly.com or call Mark Hennig at (425) 466-6158. 2016 Budget Q&A and Ratification Meeting Thursday, October 29 (Time TBD) SR ROA Office Holiday Tree Lighting Saturday, December 5 5:30pm to 8:00pm Railroad Park & Gazebo Pets on the Ridge Wags & Wine The Snoqualmie Ridge Pet Committee is hard at work on behalf of the pets and pet owners of our community. “To further our goal of connecting Snoqualmie Ridge pet lovers,” said Pet Committee Chair, Sher Bowman-Klug, “we have a fun-filled event planned in September that includes our K9 companions and will help to benefit some of the animals and children right here in Snoqualmie.” The Pet Committee has planned its first “Wags & Wine” event with hopes of making it an annual occurrence. Enjoy a wonderful evening of exquisite wines from our very own Snoqualmie Valley awardwinning winery Sigillo Cellars, delicious appetizers, exciting raffle prize drawings and the opportunity to meet some of our friendly neighbors. Guests may Wags & Wine Event DATE: September 16, 2015 (Wednesday) TIME: 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm COST: $25 per person PLACE: Sigillo Cellars 8086 Railroad Ave SE, Snoqualmie Net proceeds to benefit Canine Connections opt to bring along their four-legged family members. (NOTE: Participants must be 21 years of age or older and dogs must be leashed at all times.) Ticket Sales Tickets will go on sale beginning August 17th and will be available for purchase online or at the ROA Office. Net proceeds from this year’s fun-filled event will benefit “Canine Connections” in Snoqualmie. What is “Canine Connections”? In February 2000, the Canine Connections Pet Therapy Program began pairing Echo Glen juvenile offenders with abandoned or unwanted dogs (some that would otherwise be euthanized) with the goal of healing and rehabilitating both child and animal. This innovative program offers Echo Glen residents: • The chance to build confidence and self-esteem; • Skill development, including a strong work ethic, conflict resolution, patience, time management, and follow-through; • The excitement of exploring career options that involve working with animals; • The responsibility of dog ownership; • Skills to begin a lifetime. The dogs bring students together for a common goal. Within this atmosphere of teamwork, they learn how to ensure their dogs get the best possible care and training. Students also learn how positive reinforcement can shape their dogs’ training. By learning to manage their dogs’ behavior, they learn the ultimate goal: to manage their own. Through this process, students gain a much-needed chance to learn acceptance, and begin their own journey to healing and well-being. The once deemed unwanted dog, gets a second chance to be cared for, loved, and adopted into a permanent home. For information about this and other upcoming events, simply join the “Pets on the Ridge” private Facebook group or contact the Pet Committee at [email protected]. www.RidgeROA.com 2015 Summer 11 Resident Spotlight Bill and Judi Maxwell Snoqualmie Ridge Residents the Amazon River; Australia; New Zealand; Russia; safaris in Africa; and this past May, rafting 277 miles on the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. They have enjoyed volunteering at the Boeing Classic, serving on the Eagle Nest Neighborhood Committee and supporting the Snoqualmie Valley Pet Food Bank. The Maxwells love living in Snoqualmie – a great place to retire! Bill and Judi Maxwell designed and built their new home in the Eagle Nest neighborhood of the Ridge eight years ago after raising their four daughters — Colleen, Erin, Alison and Megan in the town of Clyde Hill in Bellevue. They have two grandsons: Alex 22, Austin 20, and four granddaughters: Jenna 13, Grace 10, Ava 7, and Mia 5. Bill is a retired Vice-President of the former Washington Natural Gas Company in Seattle and also ran his own Remodel-Construction Company, “Creative Home Solutions” for 12 years following retirement. He graduated from the University of Washington in Civil Engineering. Judi taught first grade before raising the girls full–time, volunteering for many organizations and taking post-graduate studies at the UW and Bellevue College. When the girls were in high school, Judi began skiing – eventually becoming a professional ski instructor for Ski Masters Ski School for 23 years! This led to many fun ski trips to Europe in Austria, Switzerland, Italy and France. Both Bill and Judi have been active members of The Mountaineers Club in Seattle for 40 years, where Bill served as President and Judi was the club representative on The Mountains to Sound Greenway Board. They both taught mountaineering classes and led climbing trips for many years. Avid adventure travelers, Bill and Judi have experienced incredible trips around the world: climbing in Mexico; Patagonia; Mt. Olympus in Greece, and Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. They have summited the “Five Majors” in Washington: Mt. Rainier, Mt. Baker, Mt. Adams, Mt. Olympus in Olympic National Park, and Mt. Saint Helens. They have also climbed Mt. Hood in Oregon and Mts. Shasta, Lassen and Whitney in California. Some of their favorite adventures include visiting Antarctica; the Arctic; Egypt; boating 2,300 miles up 12 Snoqualmie Ridge ROA Newsletter Bill, Judi, and their four daughters. From A To Z. We’ve Got It Covered. Adventure Guides Birthday Parties Community Day Camp Exercise Family Nights Giving Back Healthy Living Initiatives Jr. Hang Time Kids University Leadership Clubs Membership Nutrition Open Gym Partnerships Quality Time Relationships Scholarships Teen Trips Unlimited Fun Volunteerism Weight Training eXtreme Fitness Youth Sports Zipline MORE THAN A GYM. WE’RE A CAUSE. GIVE, JOIN, VOLUNTEER, AND DO SO MUCH MORE. SNOQUALMIE VALLEY YMCA 425.356.3115 snovalleyymca.org 35018 SE RIDGE ST SNOQUALMIE, WA 98065 Compliance Corner Community Corner Artificial Turf: Just the Facts As mentioned in the last issue of the ROA Newsletter, the use of artificial turf within Snoqualmie Ridge was being reviewed and considered by the ROA Board of Directors, the New Construction Committee and the City of Snoqualmie. After a great deal of research and investigation, the Association and its partners have reached the following conclusions: • Although the Snoqualmie Ridge Residential Guidelines prohibit the use of artificial turf in front yards, residents interested in installing artificial turf may apply for a limited exception by submitting a completed Modification Application to the ROA; • Only those Modification Applications providing for strict adherence to the ROA’s recently established product specifications and performance standards will be considered for approval; • Only those Modification Applications providing for strict adherence to the ROA’s recently established installation requirements will be considered for approval; • No artificial turf shall be installed at a residential property within Snoqualmie Ridge unless and until the homeowner has received prior approval from the ROA Community Manager; • If an exception to the prohibition against artificial turf is granted to a homeowner, that homeowner must comply with specific maintenance requirements as provided for by the ROA. Should you have any questions about the use of artificial turf, please contact the ROA Community Manager, Kayte Beatie, at [email protected]. www.RidgeROA.com 2015 Summer 13 Trees, Drought and the Long, Hot Summer By Phil Bennett, Urban Forester City of Snoqualmie Parks Department We are in the middle of an unusual weather pattern in the Pacific Northwest: this summer is looking to be long, dry and hot! It is more typical for our region to have spells of rain intermixed with the sunshine rather than long, extended periods with no precipitation. We also didn’t receive significant snowfall in the Cascades this winter, so the snowmelt that feeds watersheds through the summer is minimal. These conditions affect agriculture, fisheries, native ecosystems, and planted landscapes. We can expect to see increased mortality of trees in both natural areas and landscapes throughout the Ridge (and Snoqualmie as a whole). Some deciduous trees may go into an early fall response, with leaves displaying their autumn color earlier than usual, followed by early leaf shed. They may well recover and send out new leaves next year, but if you see a tree with brown leaves, it’s dead. Interestingly, many of our native evergreens (Douglas Fir, Sitka Spruce, Western Hemlock and Western Red Cedar) will not show the full impact of drought stress until next year. These trees often make it through the winter, but are so compromised by the previous year’s drought that they do not have enough energy to send new foliage out in the spring, and die in the process. Mulching can really help the trees in your yard survive these conditions. Apply 3-4 inches of woody mulch (“arborist chips”) or the chipped remains of trees (better than “Beauty Bark) around the base of the tree in a 3-4 foot circle. Mulch retains moisture in the 14 Snoqualmie Ridge ROA Newsletter soil below and provides nutrients to the tree. Trees can survive without constant irrigation, but an occasional slow, deep watering can help. Better to put a dripping hose at the base of the tree for an hour or two, than a gushing hose for a few minutes since most of the water from the gushing hose will evaporate and never penetrate the soil. If you do lose trees or shrubs due to drought, consider re-planting with drought-resistant species (Pines are an example). On the Ridge, our soils are shallow and poor, so adding soil and ensuring proper drainage will also help improve your tree’s chances. Enjoy the summer, stay cool, and good luck with your landscape! Aphids on Linden (Tilia species). P-patch Place Container Gardens By Pamela Wickard, Master Gardener For a successful container garden, you need good potting soil with ample nutrients and good drainage. Certain materials will affect fertility and have an impact on drainage. Start with a soil that is labeled “potting soil”. If it has compost in it, even better! Then you'll need some slow-release fertilizer. Just about anything can be used as a container. The most conventional is the clay, terra cotta or wooden pot. But why not try an old wagon, a pair of boots or a basket? Just make sure that whatever you choose has holes for ample drainage. Avoid the suggestion to put gravel in the bottom of your container to increase drainage as it doesn’t work … in fact, it’s counterproductive. If using a large container, think about how you will transport it. For extra-large containers, try filling the bottom half with empty gallon milk jugs as they are lightweight and will save you from having to fill the whole container with soil, making it heavy and cumbersome to move. Now the fun part – the plants! When you are choosing plants for your container, make sure that they are "like" plants. This means that all the plants in one container should thrive in the same conditions. If you combine plants with different needs (one prefers direct sunlight while another prefers shade; one plant requires daily watering while another needs only occasional moisture), some plants will suffer. If you’re not sure of a plant’s optimal conditions, ask for guidance from your local nursery or garden center. The three key elements in successful container designing are simple to remember: (1) the thriller; (2) the filler; and (3) the spiller. This design technique utilizes three different types of plants to create wellrounded containers that look great every time. Thrillers are plants with height that add drama and a vertical element to the combination. They are generally put either in the center or at the back of the container. Next is the filler. Fillers tend to be more rounded or mounded plants and make the container look full. Finally, add the spiller. Spillers are trailing plants that hang over the edge of the planter and add a soft edge to your garden. For greater visual interest, consider varying the leaf texture, color and size of the plants you’re choosing. For example, try this recipe for a container in the sun: The Thriller Cordyline australis (Burgundy Spire) The Filler The Spiller Euphorbia (Ascot Rainbow Spurge) Creeping juniper (Juniperus horizontalis) Each has a unique quality (color, texture), but all have the same sun-loving conditions, increasing the likelihood that they will all thrive together. For additional resources, check out: ÎÎ Container Gardening: 250 Design Ideas & Step-By-Step Techniques ÎÎ Small Space Container Gardens ÎÎ The Vegetable Gardener’s Container Bible ÎÎ Container Gardening for All Seasons Happy gardening! www.RidgeROA.com 2015 Summer 15 7713 Center Blvd. SE, Suite 100 Snoqualmie, WA 98065 We’re Convenient for YOU! With extended hours to meet your busy schedule, Snoqualmie Ridge Family Dental is open more days and has more flexible hours than any other dentist in the Valley. • • • • • • Open every Friday for Early School Release Early AM and PM Appointments 24-hour Emergency Care Available Child Friendly Environment Free Teeth Whitening for Life (See office for details) State of the Art Dental Technology Susan K. Robins, DDS, PS. Chosen as one of America’s Top Dentists’ by the Consumer Research Council of America - 2009 Make an appointment to experience the Snoqualmie Ridge Family Dental advantage. 7719 Center Boulevard SE - Snoqualmie - 425.396.5555 www.SnoqualmieRidgeFamilyDental.com