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ISSAQUAH SAMMAMISH + Sept / Oct 2012 THE INTERNATIONAL ISSUE BACK TO SCHOOL: LESSONS LEARNED FROM FINLAND ISSAQUAH’S ‘GERMAN OCCUPATION’ PORTOFINO, MONTE CARLO, LUCERNE FOOD FROM AROUND THE WORLD  PLUS LANDSCAPING INTERIOR DESIGN REMODELING ROWING ON LAKE SAMMAMISH

Sept/Oct 2012

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A bi-monthly community magazine serving Issaquah and Sammamish Washington

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Page 1: Sept/Oct 2012

issaquahsammamish+

Sept / Oct 2012

theinternational

issueback to school:

lessons learned From Finlandissaquah’s ‘German occupation’

portoFino, monte carlo, lucerneFood From around the World

 

plus landscapinG interior desiGn remodelinG roWinG on lake sammamish

Page 2: Sept/Oct 2012

If your child struggles to learn or read—but you don’t know with absolute certainty WHY—have your child’s underlying cognitive skills tested at LearningRx. The specific knowledge you gain will help you know exactly how your child learns, why he struggles in specific areas, and what you can do to help him overcome these problems and enjoy a lifetime of learning and reading success.

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(425) 657-0908LearningRx Issaquah

Testing normally costs $249. Similar professional testing costs $600 and up.

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“My LearningRx trainer helped me learn HOW to learn. I now have better grades, higher self-esteem and my love of learning skyrocketed! LearningRx changed my life.” ~ Ryan - Issaquah, WA

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OVERCOME LEARNING CHALLENGEStrain the brain. get smarter. guaranteed.

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REP. JAY RODNE

5TH DISTRICT GOP

ENDORSED BY:

ASSOCIATION OF WASHINGTON BUSINESS (AWB)

ATTORNEY GENERAL ROB MCKENNA

VISIT OUR WEBSITES FOR MORE INFORMATION:

JAYRODNE.COM & VOTE4CHAD.COMPAID FOR BY

FRIENDS OF JAY RODNE P.O. BOX 2848,

ISSAQUAH WA 98027

“This is a great area in which to work and

raise a family. I’m dedicated to improving our schools and getting

the state government

back on track.”

Together we can make Washington work again.WE ASK FOR YOUR VOTE

BECAUSE WE SHARE YOUR PRIORITIES IN THE

5TH LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT:

ELECT

CHADMAGENDANZFor State Representative, 5th LD

PAID FOR BY CITIZENS FOR CHAD MAGENDANZ

P.O. BOX 1362 ISSAQUAH, WA 98027

(425) 395-4895

RATED:

“OUTSTANDING” BY MUNICIPAL LEAGUE

OF KING COUNTY

ENDORSED BY: THE SEATTLE TIMES

8/9/12

CHAD MAGENDANZ

5TH DISTRICT GOP

“I will take my proven

experience as Issaquah School Board president

to Olympia to promote meaningful

spending restraint over budget gimmicks.”

Page 3: Sept/Oct 2012

i s s aq ua h s a m m a m i s h . co m s e p t e m b e r /o c t o b e r 2 01 2 3

con tents

departments

8shoppinG

Wine gadgets and glasses

10a taste oF the World

Culinary delights

12

international cheese

Six locally sourced

international cheeses

18

the Grass isn’t

alWays Greener

Landscaping without

a lawn

20

the british invasion

Interior design

22

tankless Water heaters

European standard

becoming a hot ticket

in America

24

a vieW From above

The Issaquah Skyport

26

local real estate

What are you waiting for?

i s s a q u a h s a m m a m i s h . co m your community lifestyle magazine September / October 2012

features

14the German occupation

Issaquah’s surprising history

16education abroad

Lessons learned from Finland

16

27

10

8

18

Created using the strength of today’s high yield Galvalume® steel, the PACIFIC SHAKE® marries with the environment, and enhances any home without the fear of fi re or weather concerns normally associated with wood roofs. It’s exceptionally lightweight at only 1.5lbs/sq. ft. Combining the Strength of Steel with the durability of rock, SteelROCK roof products offer the best protection for your home.

Whether you need a new roof or a replacement roof, SteelROCK PACIFIC SHAKE’S® specially designed deep wood grain grooves and modular sections within each panel create a rich wood shake profi le to blend perfectly with the surrounding architecture.

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27

on the Water

Rowing for fitness and fun

28

calendar oF events

Make the most of

your autumn

sections

4 publisher’s note

5 contributors

Page 4: Sept/Oct 2012

4 i s s aq ua h s a m m a m i s h . co m s e p t e m b e r /o c t o b e r 2 01 2 i s s aq ua h s a m m a m i s h . co m s e p t e m b e r /o c t o b e r 2 01 2 5

Ewing & ClarkChristine Kipp & Jay Kipp

425-260-3934 [email protected]

Expert Representation & Unique Marketing Services

Issaquah & Sammamish LivingEwing & Clark

5 Bdr, 4.75 Bth, Media Room, Wine CellarMarivauxLiving.com

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Beaver Lake WaterfrontBeaverLake-Waterfront.com

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5 Bdr, 3.5 Bth, Kids’ SuiteIssaquahFoothills.com

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ACREAGE

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a note from the publisher❉

You have heard broadcast and online media gurus telling us for several years that print is a dead media, everything is going digital… Really?

The truth is far more interesting than the self-servicing pronouncements. Sure media consumption patterns are changing but to think for even a second that the multi-billion dollar print industry is dead is silly. Let’s look at just the magazine portion and you may be surprised to learn that in March there were 71 new magazines launched. April had 61 more, May added another 82 titles followed by 59 in June and 52 in July. These numbers demonstrate the deep-seated strength of magazines in particular and print in general.

It ain’t what you don’t know that gets you into trouble. It’s what you know for sure that just ain’t so. —Mark Twain

Part of the reason magazines like ours are growing is that they cover topics of specific interest to you—your home, your children’s education, great foods, local real estate values, local history and special shopping opportunities. You will find all these in this issue and in most of the other 6 editions delivered to you each year.

p r i n t i s d e a d !

❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉

❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉

SubScribe Make sure you keep receiving Issaquah+Sammamish for FREE! Fill out the subscription form at IssaquahSammamish.com.

issaquahsammamish+

P u b l i s h e r s

Fred & Mardi Nystrom [email protected]

e d i t o r i a l d i r e c t o r

Paul [email protected]

d e s i g N + P r o d u c t i o N

connie bigelow

b u s i N e s s d e v e l o P M e N t

brenda [email protected]

Pam [email protected]

issaquah+sammamish is a publication of Kellstrom

Publishing, llc. ©2012 - all rights reserved. No part of this magazine

can be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher.

if you would like to change the name of the recipient or the address

where you are receiving issaquah+sammamish magazine, email us the info on your current mailing label and the corrections

that you would like made to:

[email protected]. box 378, issaquah 98027

office: 425.392.0451

Kellstrom Publishing sets high standards to ensure forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial and economically viable manner. this copy of issaquah+sammamish was printed by Journal graphics in hayden, idaho on paper from well-managed forests which meets ePa guidelines that recommend use of recovered fibers for coated papers. inks used contain a blend of soy base. our printer meets or exceeds a l l federa l resource conservation recovery act (rcra) standards and is a certified member of both the Forest s t ewa r d s h ip c o u nc i l ( F s c ) a nd t he sustainable Forestry initiative (sFi). When you are done with this piece please pass it on to a friend, or recycle it. We can all have a better world if we choose it together.

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Page 5: Sept/Oct 2012

i s s aq ua h s a m m a m i s h . co m s e p t e m b e r /o c t o b e r 2 01 2 7 6 i s s aq ua h s a m m a m i s h . co m s e p t e m b e r /o c t o b e r 2 01 2

mike pernack is a licensed Architect based in Issaquah for 26 years with projects all over the state and beyond. His residential work includes new homes, additions and remodels.

jeFF skierka is the owner and designer of Reflections Landscaping located in Sammamish.

contributors ❉

New Location!80 NE Gilman Blvd in Issaquah

On the corner of Gilman Blvd and Front Street next to XXX Rootbeer

“It’s more than a name...it’s how we do business.”425.557.8665 • www.IntegrityAutoRepair.com

Everyone is welcome. Financial assistance is available. The YMCA of Greater Seattle strengthens communities in King and south Snohomish counties through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

HEART OF THE COMMUNITYYMCAs on the Eastside

The Y has been part of our local community since 1987, guiding kids & teens as they build skills, gain confidence & make new friends. It’s also been a place where adults & seniors have turned to for a healthy start to a lifetime of wellness. So, get in on the action today – there’s something for the whole family!

• Youth Sports

• Birthday Parties

• Aquatics & Swim Lessons

• Exercise Classes like Zumba® & Pilates

• Family Programs & Community Events

• Senior Programs

• Volunteer Opportunities

JOIN IN OCTOBER & SAVE

P 425 391 4840W seattleymca.org

Need Balance?If you are just starting on an exercise program or you want to take your training to the max …Metabolic Testing can help get you there.

• Resting Metabolic Testing is a simple 15 minute breath test that tells your precise caloric needs.

• VO2 Testing measures your current fitness level and tells your precise fat burning zone —plus more.

• We will customize an individual diet and exercise plan based on your Metabolic Tests.

At Balance Physical Therapy, all of our therapists are trained medical professionals who combine hands on therapy with movement, exercise and education to help you reach your goals.

730 NW Gilman Blvd C108 • Issaquah 425-391-6794 • www.BalancePT.org

Reflections Landscape & ConstructionBefore

“Creating Homes Reflective of Our Clients Dreams”

After

“Reflections Landscape & Construction turned our plain backyard into an oasis that we love sharing with our friends and family. We enjoyed every aspect of working with them”

-Brooks & Carmen McCartney

Reflections Landscape ServicesDesign • Lighting • Fire Features • Decks

Retaining Walls • Outdoor Kitchens • Stone Work Patios • Driveways • Pavers • Prunning

425-891-0747j e f f @ r e f l e c t i o n s l a n d s c a p i n g . c o m

Like Us on Facebook!www.facebook.com/ReflectionsLC www.reflectionslandscaping.com

anGela hildre is an experienced Interior Designer and avid blogger. She has been serving the residents of Issaquah and Sammamish for a number of years. Her work includes both residential and commercial projects.

Author of the food blog Positively Ravenous,

jessica coWan is a food loving, tequila drinking, law firm escapee currently at large in Seattle.

christine kipp is a residential real estate Broker with Ewing & Clark. She represents fine waterfront, view, acreage, and executive homes in Issaquah & Sammamish.

craiG Williamson is owner of MM Comfort Systems which is celebrating 35 years of servicing the Seattle/ Tacoma area.

Page 6: Sept/Oct 2012

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❉ shopping

Just when you think your wine aficionado has enough gadgets and glasses, there is always something new on the horizon for picnics at outdoor concerts and tailgates.

With a 24-hour chilled beverage thermos, you no longer need to ice your drinks. Sip while your purchase helps build safe water sources internationally.

A super find is Cheese Paper for all those leftover pieces! Because cheese won’t breathe in plastic bags, wrap it in paper for longer lasting freshness.

Another must have for every travel pack is Wine Away, which miraculously removes red wine stains. Last but not least, a local couple has created an easy way for wine drinkers to count calories and, with a sense of humor, solutions to life’s challenges with a stein.

4 caloric cuvee

Hand-etched glasses, measure wine in two- ounce increments or number of children. Lead- free, dishwasher safe.

5 caloric or

mother’s helper

Wine Glasses

Single Stem oz. or metric $18.95

Stem-less Wine Glasses $18.95The Solution 15oz. Stein “Problem and Solution” etched $21.95

The Kitchen CupboardGilman Village425-392-7284Issaquah, WA 98027 caloriccuvee.com

❉ ❉ ❉

do you have local products you think others should know

about? please contact [email protected]

❉ ❉ ❉

2 true Wine box

with accessories

$35

cheese paper

$9

Wine aWay

2oz $5

slate cheese board

includes soapstone chalk

$16

Capri Cellars88 Front Street SouthIssaquah, WA 98027425-369-4289capricellars.com

1 s’Well

in a variety of colors

25oz/750 ml $4417oz/500ml $329oz/260ml $25

CleanScapesGilman Village317 NW Gilman BlvdIssaquah, WA 98027425-392-0285cleanscapes.com

3 smart Glass

recycled jeWelry

Coke Bottle Earrings $39Single Circle $57Double Circles $57

Also from CleanScapes

31 2

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Wine not?

Page 7: Sept/Oct 2012

10 i s s aq ua h s a m m a m i s h . co m s e p t e m b e r /o c t o b e r 2 01 2 i s s aq ua h s a m m a m i s h . co m s e p t e m b e r /o c t o b e r 2 01 2 11

with a particularly delicious plate, consider asking how it was prepared. Willing restaurants, the kind without secret recipes, will be more than happy to give you a few pointers.

For those of you who prefer a less scholastic environment, one increasingly popular trend is to do it yourself. Many local residents have formed cooking groups wherein those with similar tastes (or similarly iron-clad stomachs) can sample the creations of friends, peers and strangers. The groups can be themed by country, spice, ingredients or just simply ‘bring what you do best.’ There are a number of these groups floating around the internet on sites such as angieslist.com. Perhaps you could even start one yourself. Here’s how…

Begin by posting your idea on a social media site; set a time, date and location for the meeting. Make sure to include a list of foods you’re looking to prepare or sample. Include your expectations for the class (to meet new people, enjoy the company of foodies, gain 20 lbs etc...) For best responses, include a picture of something scrumptious from your kitchen. But, be warned. If you do…we might just come along.

For more information on cooking classes and walking tours available from PCC Natural Markets, visit their website at pccnaturalmarkets.com/pcccooks. ❖

food ❉

magine yourself standing in a Patisserie in Paris, surrounded by the decadent aromas of freshly baked pastries. The pain au chocolat in your hand perfectly crisped to a light golden brown, with a melted center of the finest confection. Perhaps you are in England preparing the most succulent lamb, or mastering the art of paella in Valencia.

Food has always been a way to identify and enjoy other cultures. Many of our most familiar dishes, originated elsewhere. With the provenance of each dish a reason to buy and world travel being a luxury so many of us enjoy, it’s easy to forget the many options available to us in our home towns. In fact, most of our vacation favorites can be re-created with produce found in our local stores. Some even offer cooking classes to show you how.

Begin with a free ‘Walk, Talk and Taste’ class at PCC Natural Markets

in Issaquah. This free class gives customers the opportunity to experience a guided tour through the aisles, to taste and learn about

organic produce. You can try-before-you-buy and even learn to make culinary connections between local and global communities. Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the produce, try recreating some of your favorite memories with themed cooking classes available in the well equipped kitchens housed in the store. Many less exotic favorites are also included in the curriculum.

One way to get tips and tricks from the best is quite simply to ask. Next time you find yourself in a restaurant

a taste oF the World From the culinary delights of foreign shores to all-american comfort food, Issaquah never tasted so good.

i425.369.1181 | siprestaurant.com 1084 NE Park Drive, Issaquah

Club 1084Explore & Experience the Love of Food, Wine, & Spirits in our new wine club. Inner Circle Membership (limited to 100 members) o� ers Exclusive Benefi ts. For details & Club application, visit our website.

1/2 Price Wine Wednesdays Enjoy a bottle of wine $100 & less for 1/2 o� the listed price.

Welcoming. Sophisticated. Comfortable. Lively. Life’s fast…sip slow.

Open Weekdays 5PM • Weekends 4PM

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

B

L

D

Brunch

Happy hour

Full Bar

Kid friendly

Outdoor dining

Private parties

Reservations

Catering

Takeout/delivery

RBr

D

425.369.8900 | agaverest.com 1048 NE Park Dr., Issaquah 17158 Redmond Way, Redmond | 425.881.8252

Family owned and operated. Catering available.

Mexican food for today’s eating habits, because FRESHNESS makes a di� erence. Our menu items are prepared to order, proudly using sustainable seafood, free range meats, no preservatives, trans fats or lard. 90% Gluten Free menu.

Also o� ering over 100 limited edition, hard to fi nd premium tequilas and of course our very well known scratch margaritas made with FRESH lime and NATURAL fruit puree combinations.

Open 7 Days a Week at 11AM L D

425.391.9097 | lombardisitalian.com 695 NW Gilman Blvd, Issaquah

Issaquah’s Best Happy Hour Everyday 3pm to close

Share the best of local Italian with family and friends. Drop in to share some of Chef

Matt’s great small plates with your favorite WA and Italian wines, or a handcrafted cocktail. Meet our friendly bartenders and sta� .

We look forward to seeing you soon. Voted Best Italian in Issaquah for 12 years running.

Open daily — Lunch, Dinner, Happy Hour L D

Captivating CuisinesWhether it’s casual/fi ne dining, take out/delivery, or happy hour, enjoy your favorite cuisine at restaurant close to home…

Page 8: Sept/Oct 2012

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cheddar, and a complex, unexpected nuttiness that rounds out the flavor.

colston bassett stilton

Another product of Neal’s Yard, this is the best of the blues, made in Nottingham from cow’s milk at the Colston Bassett Dairy, one of the smallest stilton dairies in Britain, established in 1920. This cheese presents the most complexity and overall depth of flavor I’ve encountered in a blue, which are typically one note and an unexpectedly luscious texture.

So now you have your cheese, let’s talk a little about some of the best ways to serve it with some guidance from Sheri at Calf & Kid:

❉ Like any good wine needs to breathe, cheese should be rested at room temperature before serving. A good rule of thumb is half an hour.

❉ Store it properly. If I’m breaking into some Red Dragon cheddar from Trader Joe’s, it goes in a zip lock bag, but these cheeses go in cheese paper. Yes, cheese paper, a parchment like sheet that allows your cheese to breathe but still protects it from outside odors.

❉ Don’t overdue the accompaniments. We all love the jams and the mustards and the pastes…but a little goes a long way. Just a touch of honey with a tangy blue, a dab of spicy jam with a sweeter cheese such as the Grand Ewe and so on.

❉ Do have fun with your pairings. Give beer a try as it holds up well to most flavorful cheeses without overwhelming them. If you’re serving multiple cheeses, try a mixed six-pack so that you can explore a range of pairing options and don’t forget to slice some crisp apples or melon to cleanse the palate in between bites. ❖

inte rnational che ese Six Locally Sourced International Cheeses Will Expand the Borders of Your Palate. By Jessica Cowen

t’s safe to say that I’ve yet to meet a person who does not like cheese. If I have, I’ve promptly erased them from memory, such is my commitment to the stuff. As most Seattleites, in an effort of sustainability and community I’ve mostly focused my

attentions on the vast offerings of Pacific Northwest cheesemakers; as such I was quite excited to broaden my horizons and learn more about the world of international cheese for this special issue.

In the spirit of “think globally, act locally” I found myself visiting Seattle’s own artisan cheese shop Calf & Kid in the Melrose Market. Owner and cheesemonger Sheri LaVigne started Calf & Kid two years ago with a focus on local artisan cheeses that comprise the majority of her inventory. As a lover of French cheeses she also carries a select few imports and introduced me to six of her favorites.

le pommier camembert

Camembert is a creamy, popular soft-ripened style of cheese (the same family as brie). This cows milk camembert hails from Normand, the taste is everything that a camembert should be, creamy, buttery with an added depth of

earthiness and mushroom that takes it to the next level.

tomme crayeuse

Tomme Crayeuse is a newer cheese, created by Max Schmidhauser of the Savoie region of France in 1997. “Crayeuse” means “chalky” in French and refers to the chalky center of the cheese. It’s cave aged and when you taste the peaty, damp earthiness of it you can almost imagine you’re in the cave with it and then you notice the subtle taste of citrus and you’re back to reality. Schmidhauser cheeses are well known for their consistency, so keep that name in your pocket.

Grand eWe

This cheese only sounds like it comes from Portland, it’s actually from Holland and is a rare find among the Dutch producers as it is made entirely from sheep’s milk. A vintage gouda, this is the dessert of cheeses with a rich milky taste, notes of butterscotch and just enough salt.

lou berGier pichin

The first of the Italian cheeses on this list, from Piedmont, Lou Bergier Pichin is a semi-soft, lactic style cheese made from raw cows milk and aged for 2 months.

taleGGio

Taleggio always brings to mind “stinky”, as it is often a quite pungent cheese. This taleggio from the producer Perolari in Lombardy, Italy, is the mildest of the taleggios that I’ve tried and is a perfect entry point for anyone interested in exploring the “stinky” cheeses. While the rind can be pungent, the taste of a taleggio is creamy, buttery and increases in tanginess depending on how long they are aged.

keen’s cheddar

Made by the Keen family in Somerset this is as Sheri put it “the best import cheddar, ever”. She’s not kidding. Another raw cows milk cheese, this has the bite you want in a good

i

food ❉meats

PhotograPhy

sBa Lending

shoPPing

Meat, Poultry, Sausage, Service

425.392.3131fischermeatsnw.com | 85 Front Steet N.

fischerMeats-2in-MP-novDec-2010.indd 1 10/12/10 11:04:19 PM

marketplace

SBA Loans offer a Flexible Alternative in a Tight Credit Market.

Specializing in SBA lending, our dedicated team in the Northwest stands ready to help your small business grow.

Lisa Forrest [email protected]

The Caloric Cuvee™

The Calorie Counting Wine Glass™ offers a guideline for people who enjoy drinking wine but would also like to regulate their intake; it’s an easy measurement solution based on the typical glass of red or white wine.

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Tuscany To IssaquahVoted No. 1 Top 100 wines by Wine Enthusiast Magazine

Poggio Nardone Brunello Di Montalcino from Tuscany has local ties.The Nardone family now living in the area not only import this wine to the U.S., it is also showcased at the family’s restaurant in Issaquah, a restaurant aptly named Montalcino.At Montalcino Ristorante Italiano all dishes are prepared with passion and tradition, using only the freshest, highest quality real Italian ingredients. Charismatic Italian family ownership brings a classic atmosphere to the restaurant where everyone is a part of the family; Mamma even sings opera at your table. A quality menu with many family recipes and a top unique wine list make for a truly authentic Italian experience.

Lunch Monday–Friday • Dinner Every Night15 NW Alder Place, Issaquah, WA 98027

www.montalcinoristoranteitaliano.com

For reservations call: 425-270-3677

Page 9: Sept/Oct 2012

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he tagline to this article may read like an introduction to some far-fetched anecdote, but, delve a little into the history of Issaquah and you’ll find that these three have a lot more in common than you might think.

Our story begins in 1913. The world was vastly different to the one we know now. It was in this year, that amidst a flurry of

monarchist sentiment, the Romanov family celebrated 300 years of royal succession in Russia. It was a time of suffragettes, of engineering marvel, industry, great expansion and an ever widening gap between the regal and the common man. Adolf Hitler was actively avoiding arrest in Munich and kings of states reigned throughout Germany.

It was also the year that the Issaquah and Superior Coal Mining Company acquired surface and coal rights to around 2000 acres of land. Mining was relatively new to the area and miners flocked to the Evergreen State in hopes of finding work. The company itself was organized by Count Alvo Von Alvensleben, a German national, who had incredible ties to the aristocracy of the day.

Von Alvensleben was a socialist and somewhat of a revolutionary in mining circles. In previous endeavors he had been known to provide above average housing and recreation for his soot-covered men. The same was true in Issaquah. There was even talk of a golf-course. This endeared the miners to him and rumors abounded of his generosity and lavish taste.

In fact, in 1913 more homes were built in Issaquah than had been built in the preceding 20 years. This was solely due to the work of Von Alvensleben. The enterprise was a welcome addition to the area. Some 500 men were employed during the preparatory stages of the mines. Von Alvensleben, being himself part of the noble Brandenberg family, kept his ties with the Germans throughout his time in the Pacific Northwest. He soon became an American citizen, but the investment in the mines still came from Germany. With such lofty names as the Grand Duke of Mecklenburg on the books, the story of the mines and their investors quickly became something of a fabled relationship throughout the area.

During the European war, speculation had reached its peak. There were whispers, then evidences, eventually accusations that the Kaiser himself had money invested in the mines. In 1928, Von Alvensleben vehemently denied the claims stating, “I wish to deny unequivocally that the Kaiser ever had money invested in the Issaquah mine.” However, miners and locals alike had become enchanted with the romance of the rumor. Most probably as a form of escapism from the dreary days in the ground, miners often waxed lyrical of the royal wages they were receiving.

The rumor refused to be buried in the mines and perhaps facetiously, maybe even fondly, mining in Issaquah became known as the German Occupation.

For more information on the mines and what exists today along cougar mountain, visit: issaquahhistory.org. ❖

this 1910 photograph shows the superior coal and improvement company’s climax locomotive used to haul coal from the mines south of Goode’s corner to a connector

with the northern pacific railroad. the connection was located near what is now the intersection of rainier and Gilman bouelvards. victoria ek, the city’s treasurer in 1914,

is standing second from the left in front of the engineer’s cabin. the issaquah and superior coal company bought out the superior coal and improvement company.

From left to right on ground: john talus, charles

johnson, paul neupauer, j.r. Watkins (english mining

engineer), a. p. burrows, elmer c. anderson (on

wagon), charles larson (on top of bunker) and andrew

thompson (on bunker shute level). the photograph was taken by issaquah

photographer Wilfong at about 10:30 am, september

12, 1912. it was run in the issaquah newspaper on

Friday september 20, 1912 with a story under the

headline “plan to market issaquah coal this Winter.”

the German occupationPaul W. Fraser

The Grand Duke of Mecklenburg, the Kaiser and an Issaquah Miner walk into a bar….

mining bunkers and washing plant of issaquah and superior coal 1913. alvo von albensleben, a German citizen backed by German investors, owned the issaquah and superior coal mine. the mine, part of the claim originally discovered by andrews, was said to be capable of producing more than 2,000 tons of coal daily. albensleben’s financial support dried up when World War i started in 1914. albensleben was interned and all of his assets seized at the beginning of World War i, august 1, 1914.

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inland, commonly known for its “sauna society” and towering ever-greens is quickly becoming world renowned for its outstanding educa-tion. Lying deep within the country’s burgeoning intellectualism is a philos-ophy that seems, to some in the western world, daring — but in Finland, it’s paying dividends.

“Equality in the classroom” seems to be the mantra ring-ing in the ears of Finnish education, and the country has adopted a Marine-like philosophy wherein no one is left behind. This has proven startlingly effective in recent years as Finnish students consistently rank highly in worldwide standardized testing.

Those tests are known as PISA, an exam for 15-year-olds in which some 50 countries throughout the world partici-pate, including the United States. The Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development conducts the examination in an effort to assess the global funding of edu-cation verses the effectiveness of it, among other things. According to the official OECD website, these tests assess “to what extent students near the end of compulsory educa-tion have acquired some of the knowledge and skills

essential for full participation in soci-ety.” In these tests, and surprisingly consistently, Finnish children rank first and second respectively in sub-jects deemed “key indicators,” such as science, reading and math.

The attitude in Finnish classrooms centers on the idea that every child has something to offer, regardless of aptitude. Children are provided with free meals, and there are no tuition fees. A compulsory, basic, comprehen-sive-school education begins at age 7 and ends at 16 with no transitions between schools, therefore avoiding any adjustments to surroundings that can affect educational development.

Much of the success has been attributed to a second teacher, who is ever-present in the classroom to help those children who may be struggling with some aspect of the cur-riculum. Teaching in Finland is a prestigious profession and the selection process is much more comprehensive. Some attribute the success to a publicly-funded, incredibly focused schooling system. Others still attribute it to an emphasis on continuing adult education (in which Finland has always excelled) which motivates students to excel during those “compulsory years.”

The secret to Finland’s educational success could be all of the above — then again, perhaps not. Speak to a Finnish par-ent and they would likely attribute the success to the time spent at home before age 7.

While riding in a taxi in Helsinki, my driver Tapio, a native Finn, quipped this in response to my question about the Finnish language: “How long does it take to learn Finnish? Oh, about two years. By the time Finnish children are 2 they can already speak the language.” He added with a grin, “But really, we parents in Finland really focus on our children’s schooling from an early age, like nowhere else in the world.”

Finnish parents pride themselves on providing a solid plat-form of learning on which school-age children can then

build. During those formative years, Finnish children find much of their intellectual stimulation coming from parents and friends. In fact, statistics show that Finnish children spend fewer years in school than any other country in the developed world.

So during these early years of education, what is making the difference?

Well, as my new friend Tapio suggested, in Finland it is common and not exceptional to spend hours upon hours reading with your children.

“But Education should be fun, not strict,” he said, adding, “Pick books they enjoy, especially for the young.”

There may be some serious merit to his philosophy: A recent study from the Society for Research in Child Development suggests that “mothers who begin reading to their children at a very early age have toddlers with greater language comprehension; larger, more expressive vocabu-laries; and higher cognitive scores by the age of 2.” This trend continues as age increases.

Education in Finland almost takes the form of an enjoyable pastime, to be relished rather than endured — an attitude which is reflected in both the classroom and at home. It is all a rather laid-back and informal atmosphere; simply put, it’s becoming part of the culture.

the Finnish eFFect: hoW can We apply the philosophy?

Here in America we often find parents bribing their children with candy (when young) or special rewards for doing their homework or reading a book, but this may be the wrong ap-proach. So here are a few ideas to help your children make the most of their education.❉ Begin by creating an informal atmosphere of learning within your home. Ideas such as a “Reading Date” can be helpful wherein a parent and child can lock out the world for a 30-minute period just to read.❉ You may let your children see your efforts to learn. Few things can be more motivating to a child than seeing a par-ent consistently striving to learn and improve themselves.❉ Provide dinner conversation wherein you may discuss what you learned as well as inquiring of your child.❉ Most of all, schedule some time to just listen to or experi-ment with your child.

Whether your child is in pre-school or high school, sharing in your child’s learning, taking an active interest daily, and giving of your time to do so can greatly increase your child’s chances of success.

Remove the formality from the education and cultivate it within in your home, and who knows, perhaps you’ll learn a thing or two yourself. ❖

education abroad:

lessons learned from finlandWhether the kids are returning to skyline, iHs or one of the many other schools in the area, september can be a time of anticipation and struggle. With ever increasing pressure to excel in the classroom and college appli-cations becoming more stringent, the key to success may lie in the home. We can all learn lessons from finland…paul W. fraser

learning together can give your family the greatest chance to succeed

f

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materials installed. For example, a heavily used walkway might justify solid paving. A lightly used walkway may be done with crushed-gravel, bordered by pavers.

Mortar set stone instead of sand set stone would be another option when dealing with pathways that have differing traffic flows.

Once the lawn is removed and the pathways are installed, then the fun really begins. With all this extra space, you can now add a variety of plants to fill it. Ground covers like thyme or moss can be added to the layout and will make your new landscape easy to maintain.

Many of the projects that I design are done over a span of a few years. In the case of this project it was a 4 year process to eliminate all of the lawn and convert into walkways.

Today you would not be able to tell where the project started and where it ended. This is simply a matter of consistency, using the same materials from beginning to completion. Now, this once boring backyard is an enchanting resort on the property. ❖

ne increasingly common request I receive involves a layout without a lawn.

With the high amount of clay in our native soil, many people are living with lawns that are not functional or attractive. If you don’t need a lawn area, then a layout that is easy to care for and attractive year round is possible!

One of the ways to achieve this is to use pathways throughout the landscape.

By having pathways, you can create areas of interest and stopping points. You may add features into the landscape that you would not otherwise have room for. These stopping points can include some of the following: water features, fire pits, secondary sitting areas, vegetable gardens, gazebos and more. In fact, one of my clients is an artist who has added art to their landscape, creating an art-walk or exhibit. With the use of low voltage up lighting, the walkway is even more dramatic after sunset.

When choosing the materials to use for your walkways, it is important to look at pre-existing elements in the home and landscape and use those options for the walkways. If the exterior of the home has a lot of stone then a sand set stone walkway would be one of the first options to consider. If I am dealing with a home with a lot of brick, then I would opt for a pathway that has brick pavers. You should always match the brick or stone so that it complements the home’s existing features.

The amount of traffic that these walkways will accommodate should also play a factor in the type of

the G r ass isn ’t alWays G re e ne r Incorporating beauty into your landscaping without a lawn can be tricky but rewarding. Here’s how… By Jeff Skierka

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smartEugene Shamshurin and his wife, Tatyana, fell in love with a zHome at Issaquah Highlands. Tatyana also made sure they did the math! The numbers showed how much they would save each year on energy costs, demonstrating the long-term value of a “green” home. Now they look forward to a walk to the new Safeway being built just down the street.

Good things are happening at Issaquah Highlands.

www.issaquahhighlands.com

Eugene Shamshurin tells how natural ventilation, solar

power and geothermal heat greatly reduce the operating costs of their new zHome in

Issaquah Highlands.

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reat Britain’s Diamond Jubilee, the Summer Olympic Games in London and the popular PBS series Downton Abbey have been recent reminders to us here in the Pacific Northwest of British history, culture and design creativity.

Consider British Interior Design, it might be your cup of tea. Whether it’s spelled “colour” or “color”, on both sides of the pond we are proud of our red, white and blue. Great Britain and our region may already have rainy weather in common, but, I think we could use a bit of a British invasion when it comes to our interior decorating.

When my children were very small we lived in a converted barn on the outskirts of Cambridge. It was during my two years there that I developed my understanding and love of British Interior Design. Contrasting images of aristocratic mansions and London’s ultramodern minimalist look may come to mind when we think of Britain. However, true British style has the lived-in look that prizes

comfort and tradition over perfectly coordinated and orchestrated interiors; nothing is too matchy-matchy or trendy. Home is a place that expresses the personality of the people who live there and the look can’t easily be defined.

There are a number of ways to go when considering a British influence. You might be drawn to the Country Cottage look that brings to mind Laura Ashley florals or Shabby Chic white tone on tone. This is a comfortable, feminine style that can be neutralized so that even the boys in the family will feel right at home. To get the look, combine toile upholstered or slip-covered furniture with wallpaper, white pottery and gilt frames around botanical prints. Bring in antique wood furniture to create focal points in the room as well as contrast with chintz, toiles, florals and striped textiles. Sisal and wool rugs create a neutral floor covering that absorbs noises and dirt. Layering of patterns and textures is essential to achieve a sense of tradition and a feel of a home that has evolved over time.

British design elements such as dark Chippendale wood furniture, Gray wool tweed, Wedgwood blue, English silver and sparkling Waterford crystal are iconic, traditional and expensive. To achieve the look of an impeccably tailored, traditional style, mix new and vintage items from an antique store that don’t cost a lot. There are lots of these stores

scattered throughout Issaquah and Sammamish, so go digging. If you don’t find items that work with your space, remember, Keep Calm and Carry On, you can add pieces over time for an authentic lived-in look.

You may begin with a neutral background on floors, paint walls a contrasting color and add base and crown molding to frame the walls. If your home has tall ceilings then take advantage of the height by painting the ceiling a lighter color and add a brass chandelier with a decorative plaster ceiling medallion.

The Seattle Design Center is a wonderful place to shop for all things British. Showrooms such as Kravet/Lee Jofa and Schumacher have a great selection of textiles—wool tweeds, toiles chintz and stripes. Showrooms such as The Dixon Group, MJ Interiors and Michael Folks have gorgeous selections of upholstered and wood furniture and accessories such as rugs and lamps. The furniture, fabrics and other design elements you find at the Seattle Design Center aren’t available at other stores. Products are customized for each client and can be purchased through designers. ❖

Seattle Design Center Studio Program(206) 957-7018

American Society of Interior Designers | WA State Chapter (206) 762-4313

the british invasionLondon’s Calling when it come to interior design… By Angela Hildre

g

home ❉ re mode l , addition or n eW hom e ? pl an ah e ad…

Planning a new addition to your home can be a daunting task. architect mike Pernack walks us through the process.

❶ Write out a scope of the work. this should be an outline of what the project will involve, be thorough.

❷ Gather info. Find the original plans of the house (or from a previous remodel.) this should include: survey drawing, checking property and building restrictions, finance options, potential architects and builders.

❸ preliminary budget. Come up with a realistic target budget based on what you would like it to cost.

❹ involve an architect early. an architect can act as a guide in the preliminary work and tell you where to find the info, or gather it for you. record your decisions...you’ll make many.

❺ research. read and learn basic construction terms. Books by local author Frances d.K. Ching are best. get information from your builders department.

❻ codes. a) iCC (international Building Code),

irC (international residential Code). these codes are based around life safety and include all aspects of construction standards that must be met by law.

b) the zoning code is different for every area. it covers setbacks from property lines, lot coverage, height, etc.

c) the energy code dictates energy values for walls, floors, and roofs.

❼ building departments. if you are within the city limits of issaquah/sammamish, you will get your permits at the city offices. your architect can help with this. make an appointment to have a ‘pre-design meeting’ with the Building and Land Use department.

there you have it…seven simple steps to make any construction go smoothly.

Learn more about our amazing opportunities in the arts, no-cut athletics, International Baccalaureate Programme, hands-on learning and global travel.

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It’s time for someone with small business experience in Olympia:

Elect Mark Mullet to the State Senate.

electmarkmullet.com

• Mark owns the Zeeks Pizza and Ben and Jerry’s in Issaquah.

• Mark has never voted to raise property taxes during his time on the Issaquah City Council.

• Mark worked hard to help pass the Rowley Properties Development Agreement to improve the Issaquah business district.

• Mark worked hard to get the Issaquah Highlands Retail Project successfully off the ground ($70 million retail project).

Paid for by Elect Mark Mullet 20122525 NE Park Dr., Suite A, Issaquah, WA 98029

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REFLECTIONS LANDSCAPE & CONSTRUCTIONBefore

“Creating Homes Reflective of Our Clients Dreams”Reflections Landscape & Construction used their expertise to help us transform our previous neutral garden into what we and all of our visitors claim as an oasis! The space has become a rich outdoor room with the quiet reflective feeling we were seeking. Jeff at Reflections Landscape & Construction was able to effortlessly translate our ideas, and with his insightful suggestions he was able to create this perfect setting for us! -Ted & Kerstin McKee

Reflections Landscape ServicesDesign • Lighting • Fire Features • Decks

Retaining Walls • Outdoor Kitchens • Stone Work Patios • Driveways • Pavers • Prunning

425-891-0747j e f f @ r e f l e c t i o n s l a n d s c a p i n g . c o m

Like Us on Facebook!www.facebook.com/ReflectionsLC www.reflectionslandscaping.com

After

Before

square footage previously occupied by the unsightly water heater. Many times the tank-less unit is located outside on an exterior wall freeing up even more space.

Tank-less water heaters typically cost anywhere from 15% to 20% more than conventional tank water heaters.

GettinG it riGht

As in any home improvement project, it is important to work with experts and avoid common mistakes. In the case of tank-less hot water adequate gas supply and proper venting are critical. Some older homes will need to upsize natural gas meter and/or piping to accommodate requirements of the tank-less unit in combination with other gas consuming devices such as furnaces, ranges or fireplaces which may be operating at the same time. Unfortunately, some contractors avoid this important sizing review in order to simplify the sales process. As with any gas consuming device, proper venting is required for safety and proper operation. Once again, this will not be an issue for the qualified installer. Be sure to understand vent pipe location and esthetics prior to installation. ❖

about the author

Craig Williamson is owner of MM Comfort Systems, a leading Seattle area heating and air conditioning company, celebrating 35 years of service in 2012.

Comfort and efficiency from friendly experts you can trust.

home ❉

ank-less water heaters do not store hot water—rather they heat water upon demand. This “demand” is sensed by flow when hot water is called for. Since there is no tank to run out “endless hot water” keeps everyone happy—even when you have a house full of kids and/or company.

save enerGy / save space

Tank-less water heaters operate with either natural gas or propane and can result in energy savings of up to 40%. The savings are made possible by eliminating the need to keep water hot when not being used. When demand for hot water ceases (no water flow), the tank-less unit shuts down and no energy is used. Some of the biggest savers are vacation homes or homeowners who travel frequently leaving their house unused for days at a time. A digital “set point” is available which allows homeowners to adjust hot water temperature to their preferences.

Since there is no storage tank, space savings is also a much appreciated benefit. Typical installations locate the tank-less system on a wall allowing better use of the valuable

tankless Wate r he ate rsThe standard in Europe is rapidly becoming a hot item in local homes By Craig Williamson

t

Go tank-less and save 40% on your energy bill

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community❉

n the 1950’s, the quaint town of Portofino on the Italian Riviera became the haunt of the international jet set. After the tragedies of World War II, air travel and airplanes were redefined as a glamorous and modern

means to explore the world. Private Jets were the new luxury and in 1957, for the first time, more people crossed the Atlantic by plane than by boat.

However, it wasn’t just those who desired to explore new countries and cultures who found themselves captivated by the skies. At a time when young men assembled model planes and daydreamed of daring heroics, hurtling toward the horizon at neck breaking speeds soon became a means of recreation. It seemed for a time that man had found a new playground.

Indeed, the fun didn’t stop with the cosmopolitan cities of Europe and the eastern United States. In fact, in our very town, on Pickering family land, the friendly skies opened to the Pacific Northwest.

It was here in King County, in 1961, that Linn Emrich founded the Seattle Sky Sports Club on the Issaquah Skyport. The club’s mission statement indicated that it was dedicated to the encouragement of “the use

of the sky as a playground.” Such was the dedication of the club that it ran as a non-profit organization. The club offered training in gliding, parachuting and even ballooning. Once a week the club hosted air shows which attracted scores of spectators and plane enthusiasts. It was not uncommon to drive along I-90 and witness a breathtaking barrel roll or see parachute after parachute opening in the sky above you.

If you’re thinking that a good air show would ease the pain of rush-hour today and you’re wondering what happened to the Skyport…well, here’s a little history: According to the Issaquah Historical Society, the airfield was originally built in 1941 by partners Ab Davies and Al Lockwood. It was known as the Seattle Sky Ranch. An influx of new business was enjoyed at the end of World War II when former soldiers took advantage of the G.I. Bill to go to flight school. The Sky Ranch operated until 1951, when the end of the G.I bill and rising rent forced it to close. Some ten years later, Linn Emrich leased the ranch from the Pickering family. It was at this time that it became known as the Issaquah Skyport.

The Skyport became such a part of Issaquah’s identity, that Issaquah T-shirts featured parachutes and balloons floating over the Issaquah

Valley. However, in the late 1970’s the Skyport became something of a controversy. New housing and commercial developments began to limit the Skyport. In 1975 the Pickerings sold their land to a real estate company. While Emrich continued to lease the property, they soon sought to terminate the contract. Emrich fought against their desires, so much so, that the case eventually reached the Washington Supreme Court. It was a sad day in 1987, when they ruled in favor of the land owners and the lease came to an end. Residents fought for public ownership of the land, but, following years of debate, a plan was approved for a business park to be built on the site.

On July 8, 1987 the last flight took off from the Issaquah Skyport. Four men flew high above the valley, enjoying the stunning vistas below. Three made the final parachute jump just minutes before developers marked the Skyport as closed.

If you’re wondering where it is… well, you know it. As of 2003, you just know it as the Pickering Place shopping center. So, next time you buy your groceries, or a new book, take a moment to look to the skies and imagine a distant figure, living out his boyhood dreams, floating calmly to the earth, a golden era in the history of our town. ❖

Portofino, Monte Carlo……Issaquah? By Paul W. Fraser

a vieW From above

i

spectacular stunts, soaring planes and free-falling residents could all

be seen along i-90.

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real estate ❉

hether Lucerne or Sammamish, rowing is a beautiful sport. The Sammamish Rowing Association (SRA) provides an opportunity for adults and teens, beginners and Olympians, to get out on the water and enjoy the peace of Lake Sammamish. It’s one effective workout too…

Rowing has long been considered de rigueur by those in attendance at Prep Schools and Ivy Leagues, just one of the many experiences associated with an elite education. Rowing therefore, has gained a reputation as being elitist, unavailable and expensive. Those who row can often be overheard using terms such as: double sculls and coxless fours, indulging in terminology unique to those who enjoy the sunset from a rather unique perspective. All of this can make rowing and indeed rowers seem, well…snobby.

However, spend a morning on the water with the Sammamish Rowing Association and you may find yourself replacing words such as snobby, unavailable and elitist, with words like camaraderie, welcoming and fit. In fact, the SRA encourages and invites those who

haven’t tried it, to participate in the sport. The SRA is open to all.

Why roWinG?

Rowing allows you to see the world from a new perspective. There are few experiences that can compare to seeing an autumnal sun rise or set while out on the lake. Especially with the peaceful man-powered engines (known as oars) gliding smoothly atop the water. It’s a surprisingly serene sport.

However, rowing is not just an incredible way to make friends and enjoy nature. It’s also a fantastic way to get in shape. The benefits of rowing are outstanding and as listed on the SRA website, include:❉ Fitness: Rowing is a total body workout. Rowing only looks like an upper body sport. Although upper body strength is important, the strength of the rowing stroke comes from the legs. Rowing is one of the few athletic activities that involves all of the body’s major muscle groups. It is a great aerobic workout, in the same vein as cross-country skiing. And the class times at SRA are so varied that rowing can be worked into almost any fitness schedule.❉ WeiGht loss: Combined with healthy eating, rowing will help quickly shed pounds as it builds muscle and increases your metabolism.❉ rehab: Although rowing is a full-body workout, it’s low-impact, so people recovering from knee injuries can often row even though they can’t do other sports. It’s a great way to

work your lungs for recovering smokers. Or rowing can help you get in shape after a long recess from exercise. It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before starting any athletic endeavor.

Rowing can be a great summer sport for those who enjoy skiing in the winter. It will challenge your body in new ways and is sure to give you great results, whatever your goal.

GettinG involved

If you’re interested in trying rowing, the SRA offers an introductory course which includes both land training and on-the-water instruction. After the class, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the many classes on offer by the SRA. The classes can fit almost any schedule.

Children as young as 13 can take part in youth classes. In fact, the youth program at the SRA is one of the most successful youth rowing programs in the country, frequently qualifying for national and international competitions.

For the high achieving, should you excel in the boat, you may find yourself competing in numerous regattas throughout the year.

For more information about rowing and the SRA, visit their website at sammamishrowing.org. ❖

WLucerne, Eton Dorney, Lake Sammamish— a serene path to fitness

wellness ❉

on the Wate r

communities, the Issaquah Highlands remains a buyer’s market especially in the upper price range where the previous vision of a $3+ million dollar Harrison Street neighborhood is now more realistically aligned with high end affordability and prudent investment. And, oh, by the way, the views are stunning!

Issaquah 98027 values are now and will always be a good, solid, predictable investment. With its excellent freeway access, waterfront opportunities, and proximity to downtown shops and entertainment 98027 is the center of the universe for Issaquah. Lots tend to be a little larger as original plats were developed years ago. Homes can be

smaller than Sammamish but remodel and expansion is easy on these solid architectural designs.

A key to homeownership in any region is the availability of funds to make the purchase. Alas, the recent financial meltdown has taken its toll, no doubt, in our area just like in others. Gone are the days when a buyer offers to buy without first selling their

home. Contingent offers are unlikely to be accepted by a seller who knows it will take a while to sell and cannot be assured a contingent buyers home will sell any quicker. Financing is finally becoming more predictable, however, with stated guidelines for down payment, work history and credit. These guidelines are far more stringent than in years past making homeownership a serious step for even the most creditworthy. ❖

ellers’ market, buyers’ market, prices up then down, interest rates rising; now dropping…what is really going on with our local real estate market?

Let’s look at some facts based on current listing inventory in Issaquah and Sammamish with a separate view of the Issaquah Highlands inventory.

While Sammamish properties tend to price the highest, they also offer the most in terms of square footage and baths to bedrooms. Sammamish is a very desirable locale for commuters taking I-90 into Seattle and for all those working in Redmond and surrounding eastside areas. Sammamish has been voted one of the best US Cities and no wonder. The housing stock as one component offers all the options, floorplans, amenities that our current buying public appreciates. Sammamish homes are often newer than those offered in Issaquah zip 98027 but for the newest architecture the Issaquah Highlands is the place to be.

The Highlands has been a real winner on many levels even now after its pricing has taken perhaps the biggest hit of all our communities. The area is very attractive to first and second home buyers as well as condo and townhome dwellers with a wonderful mix of architecture and size. Issaquah Highlands crested in sync with the financial markets as investment dollars became scarcer before the project was complete. Much of the area is being repurposed adding more residential and less commercial as the community gathers steam again to be completed in the years ahead. In Median terms the area is expensive per square foot and the homes are small on small lots. With more short sales and foreclosures than our other

sammamish98074-5

issaquah 98027

issaquah highlands 98029

median List Price $689,925 $509,450 $450,000asking Price Per square Foot $205 $192 $214average days on market 118 130 101median house size 3298 2720 2082median Lot size .25–.50 .50–1.0 4501–6500median number of Bedrooms 4 4 3median number of Bathrooms 2.8 2.5 2.5

❉ the housing and financial markets experienced a near catastrophic crash at the end of 2007.

❉ during the subsequent 3.5 years the 30 year fixed rate mortgage for new home purchases has declined from over 6.17% interest to just below 3.67% providing greater purchasing power for the average consumer.

❉ the effect on a $500,000 monthly mortgage payment is from 3052.62 to 2292.94 for a net savings of almost 25% per month.

❉ combine this drop in interest expense with a reduction of 20-30% in purchase price and one has to ask…what are you waiting for?

local re al estate What are you waiting for? By Christine Kipp

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september 4th

Issaquah School District – Back to School! (Annual Parent’s Celebration Day)

september 14th-16th

First Annual Issaquah Film Festival The City of Issaquah’s Art Commission presents “A History of Musicals.” Held in the First Stage Theatre, the festival will feature plenty of Gene Kelly (for those Hollywood purists) and even the Beatles’ groundbreaking “Hard Day’s Night.” For more information visit issaquahfilmfestival.com

september 15th

Jason Parker Quartet Amante Pizza on Front Street will host a night of live music beginning at 6:00 pm. Admission is free

and the quartet will be playing new music as well as some older favorites.

september 16th

Cycle the Wave As featured in the last issue of Issaquah+Sammamish, this cycling event will help to raise money to combat domestic violence. Join women everywhere as they cycle for this wonderful cause. See “Cycle The Wave” July/August Issaquah+Sammamish, page 12 or visit cyclethewave.org

september 30th

The 36th Annual Issaquah Run Once again over 2,500 participants will take part in the 10K Run, the 5K Run/Walk and the Kids Run. You must

register to take part. The Issaquah Run is produced by The Foundation of the Rotary Club of Issaquah. issaquahrun.com

october 6th & 7th

Salmon Days The Pacific Northwest’s most beloved,

family-friendly, award winning festival is back. Flood the streets of Issaquah for arts, crafts, music, food and plenty of excitement. It’s the biggest weekend in October and simply not to be missed! salmondays.org

❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉

calendarevents around town september through october

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TRAT 8_375x10_875 693347 4C .indd 1 6/5/12 10:02 AM

did you spot him? yep that’s our very own publisher Fred nystrom, mcing the issaquah 4th of july parade.

Unflattering

photo, courtesy

of the Editor.

Page 17: Sept/Oct 2012

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