- Seastside
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- Seastside #52
January 13th, 2024
One year of Seastside!!! Thank you all so much for reading the newsletter every week. Writing this has been an absolute pleasure, and it truly makes us happy that you continue to read Seastside weekly. To another amazing year!
Also, in other news, to celebrate Seastside’s first birthday, we have decided to make Headline 100% free forever. Headline is our way to spread the Seastside newsletter experience across all cities in WA. Now, for no cost at all, you can sign up and recieve your own personalized newsletter experience weekly! (We also still would love any feedback and suggestions on Headline!)
Today’s Seastside includes:
Mercer Island Hate Crime Suspects Identified
Multiple Fire Departments Assisting in LA
Many Traffic Updates
Enjoy and if you have any questions please reply to this email!! - Mac and Preju
Bellevue:
News:
Bellevue Robbery Awareness: Bellevue Police are investigating a downtown robbery where a 72-year-old woman was injured and her purse stolen. Authorities urge vigilance and request information regarding this incident or a related armed threat reported earlier the same day near Bellevue Square. (info)
Fogo de Chão Liquor License Suspended: The Bellevue location of Fogo de Chão had its liquor license suspended until January 10, 2025, for serving alcohol to a minor. The Brazilian steakhouse continues to offer its signature Churrasco dining experience during this period without alcohol service. (info)
New Housing Plan in Bellevue Aims to Increase Affordable Homes: Bellevue's HOMA Land Use Code Amendment proposes higher-density buildings, taller structures, and zoning changes to boost housing in mixed-use areas. The plan includes an affordable housing program and community feedback sessions starting January 13, 2025. (info)
Bellevue Council Advances Housing and Arts Initiatives: The City Council moved forward with code amendments to convert commercial and mixed-use buildings into multifamily housing, aligning with HB 1042 to address housing shortages. They also approved $350,000 in arts grants for 2025, funding 61 artists and organizations, and appointed Christopher Hays to the Human Services Commission. (info)
Events:
Bothell/Kenmore:
News:
Bothell Biopharmaceutical Company Settles Federal Fraud Allegations: Athira Pharma will pay $4 million after allegations it relied on falsified research from its former CEO to obtain NIH grants. The case, initiated by a whistleblower, highlights regulatory breaches between 2016-2021, though the company took corrective action after discovering the misconduct. (info)
Kenmore Wins $46,800 State Grant for Creative Wayfinding Signage: The City of Kenmore will design and install artistic signposts and banners to connect visitors with local attractions like parks, "Brew Row," and Bastyr University. The project, funded by a competitive Tourism Regeneration grant, aims to boost tourism, support local businesses, and enhance the city's visual identity. (info)
Eastside Fire & Rescue Crew Dispatched to Fight Palisades Fire: Eight Eastside Fire & Rescue firefighters and two strike team leaders from Renton, along with teams from Bothell, Kirkland, Shoreline, and Fall City, were deployed on January 9 to help combat the Palisades wildfire in California. The crew, equipped with two type-one engines and two SUV command vehicles, is part of Washington’s aid response to the devastating fire, which is only 6% contained. Their deployment, expected to last up to two weeks, underscores Washington’s commitment to providing aid without compromising local safety. (info)
Events:
Fall City/Snoqualmie:
News:
Snoqualmie Firefighters Join Eastside Fire & Rescue in Battle Against Palisades Wildfire: A Snoqualmie fire crew, along with teams from Bothell, Kirkland, Shoreline, and Fall City, has been deployed to California to assist with the Palisades wildfire. The crew, which left Washington on January 9, is currently stationed in Davis, CA, for equipment checks before heading to the fire. (info)
Final Girders on SR 18 Deep Creek Bridge to be Placed January 13th: The last section of concrete girders for the new SR 18 bridge over Deep Creek, located about two miles south of Snoqualmie, will be lifted into place on Monday morning, Jan. 13. The work is part of the I-90/SR 18 Interchange Improvements project and will not require lane closures, though drivers are advised to remain cautious and follow signage. (info)
North Bend Approves Interim Extension of Police Services Agreement with Snoqualmie: On January 7, 2025, North Bend's City Council approved an interim extension of its police services agreement with Snoqualmie, effective from January 1 to June 1, 2025. This ensures continued law enforcement support while both cities work on a long-term contract. The extension includes a 12.9% increase in the annual payment to $2.83 million, and negotiations are ongoing to reach a final agreement. Snoqualmie’s City Council will review the extension on January 13, 2025. (info)
Events:
Issaquah:
News:
Register Now: Spring CERT Classes Start Soon: Issaquah is offering Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training to equip individuals with skills to assist their community in emergencies. Two courses will be held in the spring: one on Sundays beginning February 23 and another on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting March 18. Both courses will conclude with a final disaster simulation on April 12. The courses, which are free, cover emergency preparedness, medical triage, fire safety, and more. Registration is open on the Issaquah CERT website. (info)
HFN is Bringing Faster Internet and Wi-Fi Options!: Starting in early 2025, the Highlands Fiber Network (HFN) will upgrade the community with faster internet speeds up to 2.5 Gigs (2,500 Mbps) at no extra cost. To maximize these speeds, HFN is offering new Wi-Fi router options, including Wi-Fi 6E routers and managed Wi-Fi services. Wi-Fi 7 routers will be available next year for even faster performance. (info)
Events:
Kirkland:
News:
Two Boys Injured in Kirkland Car Crash: Two 12-year-old boys were hit by an 81-year-old driver who reportedly fell asleep behind the wheel in Kirkland, WA. The crash occurred near 84th Avenue Northeast, and both boys sustained non-life-threatening injuries. One was taken to Harborview Medical Center and the other to Evergreen. The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with the police investigation. (info)
Car Fire on I-405 Causes 5-Mile Traffic Backup in Kirkland: A car fire on southbound I-405 in Kirkland caused a 5-mile traffic backup during the morning commute on January 7, 2025. The incident blocked the right three lanes just north of Northeast 85th Street, requiring a response from fire crews, State Patrol, and Incident Response. (info)
Kirkland Firefighters Deployed to Assist with Wildland Firefighting in California: On January 9, 2025, six firefighters from the Kirkland Fire Department joined King County Strike Team 1 to assist with wildland firefighting efforts in Southern California. This marks the fourth deployment to California for Kirkland's team since its formation in 2018, which has also assisted in Oregon, Arizona, Hawaii, and East Coast hurricane recovery. (info)
Traffic Alerts in Kirkland (info)
100th Avenue Northeast: Alternating traffic and possible brief stops between Northeast 137th and 145th streets due to OMA Construction. Speed limit reduced to 25 mph.
116th Avenue Northeast: Single lane closure from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. north of Northeast 70th Street for sidewalk and stormwater improvements near Lake Washington High School.
124th Avenue Northeast: Ongoing construction on the east side, with “Right Turn Only” access to 124th Avenue. Bicyclists will merge with traffic.
132nd Avenue Northeast: Single lane with flaggers from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for sidewalk construction and stormwater improvements.
Northeast 132nd Street: Stormwater pipe repairs near Evergreen Hospital from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with Uniformed Police Officers managing intersections and pedestrian detours.
Juanita Drive: Periodic lane reduction between Northeast 124th and 128th Street, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with flaggers controlling traffic.
Eighth Avenue West & Fifth Street West: Eighth Avenue closed between Market Street and Fifth Street West for sidewalk and curb repairs; final paving in spring.
Events:
Mercer Island:
News:
Mercer Island Hate Crime Suspects Identified: Mercer Island police identified two suspects involved in a hate crime at Islander Middle School, where antisemitic and racist symbols were painted on the building on January 1. Tips from the public led to the identification of the suspects. Police continue investigating the incident, and descriptions of the suspects have been released. (info)
Events:
Redmond:
News:
DFR Technology Leads Officers to Car Prowl Suspect: On January 7, Redmond police swiftly apprehended a car prowl suspect using Drone as a First Responder (DFR) technology. After receiving a report of a vehicle break-in near Avondale Way NE and Redmond Way, officers deployed a drone to search for the suspect described by a witness. The drone quickly located the man near businesses in the 17200 block of Redmond Way, enabling officers to safely detain him without incident. (info)
Redmond Fire Department Deploys Crew to Support California Wildfires: The Redmond Fire Department has sent four firefighters and a fire engine to assist in battling the escalating wildfires in Southern California. Responding to a mutual aid request, Redmond’s team will join over 200 Washington state resources in wildfire suppression efforts. Mayor Angela Birney and Fire Chief Adrian Sheppard praised the firefighters’ commitment to supporting communities in crisis while ensuring strong local coverage in Redmond. (info)
Redmond Police Department Partners with ForceMetrics to Improve Real-Time Decision-Making: The Redmond Police Department has partnered with ForceMetrics, a leading decision-assist public safety platform, to enhance real-time decision-making and community safety. This partnership will provide officers and dispatchers with instant access to critical safety and social needs information during 911 calls. Police Chief Darrell Lowe highlighted the collaboration as part of Redmond PD’s ongoing efforts to leverage advanced technology, complementing their innovative Drones as First Responders program. The integration of ForceMetrics aims to support informed, effective, and transparent policing in the community. (info)
Events:
Renton:
News:
Disaster Loan Outreach Centers Open in Renton and Bellevue for Bomb Cyclone Relief: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has established Disaster Loan Outreach Centers in Renton and Bellevue to assist Washington residents and businesses impacted by the November bomb cyclone. Eligible applicants—including homeowners, renters, nonprofits, and businesses—can apply for low-interest federal disaster loans. Homeowners may borrow up to $500,000 for property repairs, and renters can access up to $100,000 for personal property replacement. Businesses may qualify for up to $2 million in recovery funds. Walk-ins are welcome, and appointments can be scheduled at appointment.sba.gov. (info)
WSDOT Contractor Injured in I-405 Work Zone Crash in Renton: A Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) contractor was hospitalized after their truck was struck in an active work zone on I-405 in Renton on January 8. The contractor was reducing lanes when the crash occurred, totaling the vehicle and destroying safety signage. WSDOT is reminding drivers to slow down and stay alert in work zones to protect road crews. The contractor is recovering with no life-threatening injuries. (info)
City Enforces Security Measures at North 6th and Park Avenue Buildings: The City of Renton has responded to community concerns regarding the deteriorating former Boeing buildings at North 6th and Park Avenue, now owned by a private developer since 2021. Despite efforts to collaborate with the owner on addressing code violations, progress has stalled. As of January 10, the city has mandated the replacement of damaged fencing with a higher security barrier and issued a DO NOT OCCUPY order alongside an existing NO TRESPASSING order. (info)
Renton Traffic Impact Report: Week of January 13, 2025: Expect intermittent lane closures on NE Sunset Blvd between Edmonds Ave NE and Kirkland Ave NE, and between Redmond Pl NE and Union Ave NE for construction and utility work from January 13–17, 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Rainier Ave N will have intermittent lane closures between Airport Way and S 3rd St during the same period and hours. S Tobin St will be fully closed between Williams Ave S and Burnett Ave S with detours in place. SR 515 (Benson Rd S) will have Lane 2 closed in both directions on January 14, 7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Starting January 21, Houser Way N will be fully closed through May 22 for the I-405 Widening and Express Toll Lane project. Drivers are advised to follow posted detours and drive cautiously through all work zones. (info)
Events:
Renton Art Lounge on January 15th from 4pm - 7pm. (info)
Startup 425: Library Resources & Business Discussion on January 31st from 10:30am - 2:00pm. (info)
Moonlight Masquerade Winter Family Dance on February 7th from 6 - 8 pm. (info)
Be My Valentine Disco Dance on February 13th from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. (info)
Sammamish:
News:
Sammamish City Council Selects New Mayor and Deputy Mayor: Councilmember Karen Howe has been unanimously elected as the new Mayor of Sammamish, while Councilmember Amy Lam has resumed her role as Deputy Mayor following a unanimous vote during the January 7 council meeting. Former Mayor Kali Clark stepped down to focus on completing law school but will continue serving as a councilmember for the remainder of her term. (info)
Skyline Basketball Falls to Renton in Final Seconds: In a closely contested game on January 7, the Skyline boys basketball team lost 44-41 to the Renton Redhawks. Despite leading through much of the game, Skyline couldn’t hold off a late surge by Renton. Senior Graham Hohman delivered critical blocks and points, but Renton’s Juice White-Kelley and Isaac Elegan closed the gap by halftime. The teams traded leads in the second half, but a late foul and free throw secured the Redhawks’ win. Skyline’s Noah Coffaro hit a three-pointer in the final moments, but it wasn’t enough to close the gap. (info)
Events:
Woodinville:
News:
No new news!
Events:
Volunteering Opportunities:
What we are currently loving!
La Mar Cocina Peruana in Bellevue: Opened in October 2024, La Mar brings the vibrant flavors of Peruvian seafood to downtown Bellevue. Founded by renowned chef Gastón Acurio, the restaurant offers dishes like ceviche featuring local halibut and king salmon, as well as Peruvian-style sushi and empanadas. The chic interior, adorned with marine-themed art, creates an inviting atmosphere for both lunch and dinner.
El Encanto in Kirkland: Situated along the picturesque waterfront, El Encanto offers a lively dining experience with a menu that blends traditional and contemporary Latin American flavors. Guests can enjoy dishes like grilled prawns in pesto with fettuccine, all while taking in scenic lake views. The vibrant ambiance and attentive service make it a popular choice for both casual outings and special occasions.
Vibes:
It will be a bit cloudy today, but we should see some sunshine poke through the clouds for the rest of the week. All week, it’ll be a bit chilly, ranging from the low 40’s to the low 30’s.
Snoqualmie Pass via Dave Hoefler
Final Thoughts!
Seastside Exclusive Deals:
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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)