- Seastside
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- Seastside #51
January 6th, 2024
Hello everyone! We hope your New Year is off to a fantastic start! This week, we’ve packed our newsletter with tons of exciting updates, so dive in and enjoy.
We’re also thrilled to introduce something new: events-only newsletters! These newsletters focus entirely on upcoming happenings in Seattle and several Eastside cities, perfect for those who love staying in the know about local gatherings, activities, and celebrations. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or looking for something new to explore, these newsletters are your ultimate guide to what’s happening in your community.
Explore Headline, the ultimate personalized news experience! Unlike Seastside’s weekly updates for all cities, Headline lets you choose your city and topics, creating a custom newsletter and feed just for you. Stay informed your way with our app and custom newsletters!
Today’s Seastside includes:
New pop-up shops in Bothell
School funding crisis town hall
Safety improvements in Bellevue
Enjoy and if you have any questions please reply to this email!! - Mac and Preju
Bellevue:
News:
Seattle Seahawks Rookie Dinner: The Seahawks held their 2025 rookie dinner at Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi in Bellevue, with rookies covering a $38,015 bill. By comparison, their 2024 dinner at El Gaucho Bellevue cost $22,203.60. (info)
Bellevue Approves $2M for Traffic Safety Improvements: Bellevue City Council secured over $2 million in grants to enhance road safety under its Vision Zero initiative. Funded projects include protected bike lanes on Northeast Eighth Street, high-visibility crosswalks at 56 intersections, and traffic data collection at 79 locations to guide future safety enhancements. (info)
New Members Join Bellevue Diversity Advisory Network: Seven new members, representing diverse backgrounds, have been appointed to Bellevue’s Diversity Advisory Network for two-year terms starting January 1. The group meets monthly to advise the city on serving and engaging Bellevue’s diverse communities. (info)
Events:
Bothell/Kenmore:
News:
Bothell Activates Downtown Lot with Pop Shops and Food Truck Pad: The City of Bothell is transforming Lot EFG into a temporary community space with additional Pop Shops, a food truck pad, and ADA accessibility. This initiative, part of a long-term remediation plan, aims to enhance downtown engagement and recreational opportunities while permanent site uses are explored. (info)
Events:
Wine Wednesday at The Cottage on Jan. 8 from 5-8pm. (info)
Pickleball OPEN Play Night on Jan. 9 from 6-10pm. (info)
Guided Historical Tour at The Lodge at St. Edward on Jan. 10 from 5-7pm. (info)
Intro to Vinyasa Yoga on Jan. 11 from 12-2pm. (info)
After Hours Networking on Feb. 20 from 5-7pm. (info)
Fall City/Snoqualmie:
News:
Mariners Grounds Crew Improves Aldarra Ballfield: The Seattle Mariners grounds crew has recently collaborated with Falls Little League to restore Aldarra's grass outfields. Through Rick Rizzs' charity, Rick's Locker, and the efforts of Mariners Grounds Director Kevin Dvorak, local volunteers like Shawn Frisbee and Justin Valente joined forces to enhance the fields for youth baseball. (info)
Fall City Quarry Transformed into Conservation Land: King County Department of Natural Resources has recently acquired the final parcel of the 51-acre Raging River Quarry site as part of its Land Conservation Initiative. Purchased with funding from the Conservation Futures and County Parks levies, the site will now be restored for passive recreation and ecological preservation, aiding wildlife and Chinook salmon habitats while engaging the Fall City community and Snoqualmie Tribe in its future use. (info)
Public Hearing on Proposed Utility Rate Changes: The City of Snoqualmie invites community feedback on proposed 2025-2030 utility rate adjustments at a public hearing during the Jan. 13, 2025, City Council meeting at 7 PM. The changes aim to cover operating costs and capital improvements for water, sewer, and stormwater services. Rate increases for residential bills are expected to range from 4% to 12% annually, with multifamily bills increasing 1% to 5%. Comments can be made in-person at the hearing or submitted in writing by Jan. 10 to Dylan Gamble at [email protected]. (info)
Events:
Issaquah:
News:
Applications Open for Summer Concert Series: Perform at Concerts on the Green, a free community series running July through August. Apply online. (info)
District-Wide Middle School Dance - Volunteers Needed: Issaquah Parks and Community Services is looking for adult volunteers (18+) to chaperone the District-Wide Middle School Dance on January 17 from 6:30-10 p.m. at the Issaquah Community Center. Volunteers will assist with event activities and safety. A background check is required. Submit the Volunteer Interest Form by January 13. (info)
Swap ‘N Share: Give New Life to Old Items: Issaquah Highlands is hosting quarterly Swap ‘N Share events to promote sustainability and community connections. The first event will be held on January 18 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Blakely Hall, featuring the New Year Swap for toys, puzzles, and books. The event is open to everyone, with no registration required. Participants can bring up to 20 items to swap, and unused items should be taken home at the end. Future swaps include spring, summer, and winter dates with specific item themes. (info)
Events:
Buffalo Trace Whiskey Tasting at Gas Lamp Bar and Grill on Jan. 6 from 5-7pm. (info)
Issaquah Drink N Draw at Formula Brewing on Jan. 6 from 6-9pm. (info)
Free Guided Hike: Explore Grand Ridge Park on Jan. 9 from 9:30-11:30am. (info)
Issy Hacks Coding Competition (ages 13-17) on Jan. 11 from 9:30-3:30pm. (info)
Kirkland:
News:
City Council Preview January 7, 2025: The Kirkland City Council meets on January 7, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. to discuss the 2025-2030 Transportation Improvement Program, fire code amendments, and a Bike Valet Volunteer Program presentation. A 5:30 p.m. Study Session will cover Houghton Village Development and code amendments for residential zones. Public comments are welcome in-person or via Zoom. (info)
Kirkland offering Christmas Tree Compost Program: During the weeks of Jan 6 and 13, WM will pick up undecorated, unflocked, real trees (up to 6 feet tall) for free! Place them next to your cart or, if you’re in an apartment, by the dumpsters. Taller trees? Cut them down to 4-foot segments. After that, trees must be in 3-foot pieces inside your yard waste cart. You can also drop them off at the Factoria Transfer Station for some composting fun! (info)
Traffic Alerts: NE 85th Street at I-405 will be closed from Friday, January 10 at 11 p.m. to Monday, January 13 at 4 a.m. for bridge construction, with both the street and ramps shut down while I-405's mainline remains open. Construction work on 100th Avenue Northeast resumes on Monday, January 6, with alternating traffic between Northeast 137th and 145th streets. On 116th Avenue Northeast, reduced lanes will occur between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. near Lake Washington High School, also starting January 6. Traffic on 124th Avenue Northeast and 132nd Avenue Northeast will be impacted by sidewalk construction with lane reductions and flaggers controlling traffic. Lastly, periodic lane reductions will occur on Juanita Drive from Northeast 124th to 128th streets, and Eighth Avenue West remains closed for sidewalk and roadway repairs, with final paving scheduled for 2025. (info)
Events:
Mercer Island:
News:
Mercer Island Hosts School Funding Crisis Town Hall: A "School Funding Crisis" town hall will take place on January 8, 7–8:30 p.m. at Sammamish High School in Bellevue, addressing issues like school closures and cuts in special education. Mercer Island PTA leaders will join representatives from Eastside school districts to meet with state legislators, including Reps. Shelley Kloba and Lisa Callan. The event is the first collaboration between PTAs, teachers' unions, and school districts to discuss education funding gaps. Washington State Superintendent Chris Reykdal will also attend. (info)
Mercer Island City Council to Hold Public Hearing on Housing Regulations: The Mercer Island City Council will hold a public hearing on February 4, 2025, at 5 p.m. to discuss Ordinance No. 25C-02, addressing interim regulations related to middle housing and accessory dwelling units. The hearing will focus on the implementation of HB 1110 (increasing middle housing) and HB 1337 (expanding housing options). The public can participate in person or via Zoom, and written comments may be submitted by email to [email protected]. Instructions for commenting will be posted online by January 29, 2025. (info)
Mercer Island Leaders Condemn Vandalism at Islander Middle School: Late night on January 1, individuals vandalized Islander Middle School with antisemitic and racist symbols. The Mercer Island School District (MISD), City Manager, and Police Chief condemned the act, emphasizing the community's commitment to inclusion and respect. The Mercer Island Police Department (MIPD) is investigating, and MISD is removing the graffiti to ensure a welcoming campus. Additional support is being provided to students and staff affected by the incident. The community is urged to report any information to assist in the investigation. (info)
Events:
Redmond:
News:
Drone Tracks Domestic Violence Suspect in Redmond, WA: Redmond police utilized a thermal imaging drone to locate a domestic violence suspect on Nov. 27, 2024. The suspect fled into the woods near Bear Creek Trail after an assault call on 164th Ave NE and Redmond Way. The “drone as a first responder” approach allowed officers to safely track the suspect without risking officer or community safety. After pinpointing the suspect’s location, officers apprehended him with the help of a K9 unit. (info)
Events:
Renton:
News:
North Bend Couple Survives Road Rage Shooting on I-405: A North Bend couple narrowly escaped injury after a road rage incident on northbound I-405 near State Route 169 on Dec. 29, 2024. While returning from Sea-Tac Airport, a suspect driving a light-colored Ford Crown Victoria fired four to five shots at their SUV, shattering a window and hitting the side panel. The couple speculates the shooting stemmed from a merging delay. They managed to safely pull over and call authorities. The suspect, described as a white male with dirty blonde hair wearing a black hoodie, remains at large. Washington State Patrol urges anyone with information to come forward. (info)
Thieves Steal Rare E-Scooter from Renton Home: Renton Police are seeking public assistance in identifying suspects caught on camera stealing a limited-edition Formula 1 Red Bull racing e-scooter from a home on Lake Washington Boulevard North on Dec. 28, 2024. The scooter, signed by race car drivers Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez, is one of only 30 in the world. The suspects reportedly used a Mercedes GLC 300 to gain access to the garage, escaping with the prized scooter. They are also believed to be connected to nearby thefts, including stolen iPads from a rental car. Anyone with information is urged to contact Renton Police. (info)
Coyote Attacks 5-Year-Old Boy in Renton Neighborhood: A 5-year-old boy in Renton’s Maplewood Heights neighborhood was bitten by a coyote on New Year’s Eve, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. The attack occurred around 6:00 p.m. when the coyote bit the child in the upper body and attempted to drag him toward a greenbelt. The boy’s mother intervened, causing the coyote to release him. While the child was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and released later that evening, the coyote fled into a nearby forested area before officers could capture it. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and report coyote sightings to local authorities. (info)
Councilmember Ed Prince Unanimously Elected to Renton Regional Fire Authority Governance Board: Renton City Councilmember Ed Prince was unanimously elected to a three-year term on the Renton Regional Fire Authority (RFA) Governance Board during the December 9 council meeting. The six-member board, which includes three Renton City Councilmembers and three Fire District 25 Commissioners, is tasked with approving the annual RFA budget. Prince will serve alongside Council President James Alberson, Jr. and Councilmember Ryan McIrvin. Currently in his fourth council term, Prince also holds leadership roles with the Washington State Commission on African American Affairs, the Sound Transit Board, and the King County Regional Homeless Authority Governing Board. (info)
Events:
Family Story Time at Boon Boona Coffee on January 8 at 10:30am.
Comics and Crafts on January 8 at 6pm.
AlterKnits! on January 10 at 2:30pm.
Sammamish:
News:
Eastside Catholic’s Football Team Reaches 3A State Semifinals, Eager for 2025 Title: Eastside Catholic High School’s football team, renowned for its dominance in Washington’s 3A division, capped a successful 2024 season with a 10-2 overall record, reaching the state semifinals before falling to defending champions O’Dea High School in a dramatic 17-14 loss. Despite the heartbreak, the Crusaders demonstrated resilience, building on their regular-season momentum of high-scoring victories, including a 64-0 shutout against Garfield and a narrow 27-26 comeback against Roosevelt. Head coach Dom Daste highlighted the team’s growth and commitment to maintaining their competitive standard throughout the season. (info)
New Klahanie Restaurant Aims to Unite Sports Teams and Community Groups: Opened in November at the Klahanie Shopping Center, 2-4-6-8 is a new dining destination focused on serving youth sports teams, community organizations, and families. Founded by Alex and Jen Barth, the restaurant offers a warm, sports-themed atmosphere featuring local memorabilia and arcade games. Designed with flexibility in mind, it includes group rooms accommodating up to 40 guests for celebrations and meetings, complete with TVs and smart screens. The menu offers classic American fare, including family-friendly after-school and late-night specials. Located at 4512 Klahanie Drive SE in Sammamish, 2-4-6-8 aims to be a hub for connection and pride for locals. (info)
Events:
Woodinville:
News:
No news this week! Check out headline.club for more news!
Events:
Volunteering Opportunities:
Restoration Event | Luther Burbank South Shoreline Trail on Jan 25 from 10am-1pm. (info)
What we are currently loving!
Kobuta & Ookami in Redmond: This Japanese pub, also known as an izakaya, offers a delightful array of small plates and comfort foods. From crispy tonkatsu to savory ramen bowls, each dish is crafted with authentic flavors. The cozy, casual atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for unwinding with friends over shared plates and sake.
Whistle Stop Ale House in Renton: Established in 1995, this neighborhood pub has become a local favorite, celebrated for its eclectic decor and welcoming ambiance. The menu features comfort food classics like hearty burgers, fish and chips, and a variety of craft beers on tap. Voted the best lunch and family restaurant in Renton in 2023, Whistle Stop Ale House is an ideal spot for family gatherings or a relaxed meal with friends. They also host brewer’s nights every third Thursday of the month, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.
Vibes:
This week in the area, expect typical Pacific Northwest winter weather with a mix of clouds and rain. Daytime temperatures will be in the mid-40s, with lows in the mid-30s°F. Keep your umbrella handy and enjoy the cozy indoor activities the region offers.
Stevens Pass via Adam Ulrich
Final Thoughts!
Seastside Exclusive Deals:
50% off the first hour of personalized remote tech assistance for new customers at Issaquah’s GentleTechHelp.com. Bridget offers patient concierge tech assistance for seniors and the tech-uncomfortable. Mention the newsletter for the discount.
10% off every service purchased at KennyDale Exterior Washing. They provide comprehensive exterior cleaning services including power washing, window cleaning, gutter cleaning, and roof cleaning, ensuring your property looks its best. Mention the newsletter to get the deal!
10% off your next car, boat or RV detail with Detail Kings NW! Mention the newsletter!
10% off your first painting job from Liike Home Painting. Mention the newsletter!
20% off any gym membership at Hustle Fit in Redmond. Mention Seastside or use code HUSTLE when signing up!
10% off at Anchovies & Salt in Renton - mention code ‘Beehiiv’
In need of a handyman, real estate repairs, damage restoration or home remodeling? We Honey Do has offered all you readers an exclusive 5% off their services. Mention the Seastside newsletter to Eric! (info)