Seastside #53

January 20th, 2025

We hope you are all having a great year so far. This week was packed with tons of important news and updates!

Please check out our Washington news app that we have been working hard on! Headline is a personalized newsletter platform for Washington news and events. You can receive your own custom weekly newsletter.

Also, check out our other events-focused newsletter where we share events happening in the greater Seattle area!

Today’s Seastside includes:

• New store openings in Bellevue

• Comcast outage in Bothell

• Cyclone disaster assistance

Enjoy and if you have any questions please reply to this email!! - Mac and Preju

Bellevue:

News:

• City Appoints Trisna Tanus as Permanent City Attorney: After serving as acting city attorney for eight months, Trisna Tanus has been named Bellevue's city attorney. Tanus, a longtime city employee and legal expert with public and private sector experience, succeeds Kathy Gerla, who retired in May 2024. (info)

• Regional Growth Center and Legislative Session Updates: Bellevue's City Council aims to retain downtown's regional growth center designation by updating its Downtown Subarea Plan. Key legislative priorities for 2025 include addressing housing, transportation, and sustainability. The Bellevue School District reported increased enrollment, enhanced programs, and funding challenges. (info) 

• Upgrade Labs Brings Biohacking to Bellevue: Founded by Dave Asprey, Upgrade Labs opened its first Washington location in Bellevue in December 2024. Located at the Elements Apartments, the center offers advanced health technologies such as cryotherapy, red light therapy, and AI-driven muscle-building machines, with memberships starting at $299 per month. (info)

• Himalayan Coffee to Open at One Bellevue Center: Himalayan Coffee, a family-owned Seattle-based business, is opening its first Bellevue location in March 2025 at 411 108th Avenue NE. Known for premium Himalayan-sourced coffee beans, the menu will feature espresso drinks, teas, smoothies, macarons, and breakfast options. (info)

• Lunar New Year Celebrations at The Bellevue Collection: Year of the Snake: Celebrate the Year of the Snake at Bellevue Square on January 25, 2025, with live performances, family-friendly activities, and festive décor. Enjoy cultural displays, crafts, and augmented reality photo opportunities through February 2. (info)

Events:

• Umami Jazz Fusion on Jan. 24 from 8-10pm. (info)

• Mirra Friday After Dark on Jan. 24 from 10pm-2am. (info)

• Lunar New Year Celebration at The Bellevue Collection on Jan. 25 from 11am-6pm. (info)

Bothell/Kenmore:

News:

• Comcast Outage in Bothell Leaves Thousands Without Service: A Comcast outage disrupted internet, Wi-Fi, and phone services for over 2,000 Bothell residents early Friday. (info)

• City of Bothell Seeking Volunteers for Boards and Commissions: The City of Bothell is looking for community members to join various boards and commissions, including Arts, Landmark Preservation, Parks and Recreation, and Planning, with applications open until February 21, 2025. A new Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion advisory committee is also being formed to support equity initiatives. Attend an open house at City Hall on January 21, 2025, from 5–6 PM to learn more. (info)

• Federal Disaster Assistance Available for King County Residents and Businesses Affected by November Bomb Cyclone: The SBA is offering disaster loans to residents and businesses in several counties, including King, affected by the November 2024 Bomb Cyclone. The loans cover home repairs, personal property replacements, and business losses, with mitigation funds available to prevent future damage. Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) are open in King and Snohomish counties to assist with applications and offer support. Appointments can be scheduled at appointment.sba.gov. (info)

Events:

• Conscious Yoga and Breathwork on Jan. 25 from 1-3pm. (info)

• Bluegrass Sessions at Copperworks Distilling on Jan. 26 from 2:30-8pm. (info)

• Alluvium Cellars Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Jan. 28 from 5-6pm. (info)

• After Hours Networking on Feb. 20 from 5-7pm. (info)

Fall City/Snoqualmie:

News:

• Snoqualmie PD Reinstates School Resource Officer Position: Snoqualmie Valley School District has reinstated Officer Austin Gutwein as its full-time School Resource Officer (SRO) after a period of light duty. This move comes amidst staffing shortages, which have made it difficult to maintain a dedicated SRO. Chief Brian Lynch emphasized the importance of having an SRO to ensure student safety, provide mentorship, and foster strong community relationships. (info)

• Fall City Fire Dept. Sends Help to LA Wildfires: The Fall City Fire Department, along with the Kirkland Fire Department, deployed to Los Angeles on January 9, 2025, to assist with ongoing wildfires. The team, including Captain Scott Fleming and firefighter Parker Dumas, is part of a broader effort from King County, which sent 12 fire engines and three strike teams to aid California. (info)

• David Lynch: Remembering the Visionary Behind Twin Peaks: David Lynch (1946–2025), the visionary filmmaker behind Twin Peaks, has passed away, leaving a profound legacy that forever changed the landscape of storytelling. His surreal narratives and distinctive style brought global attention to Snoqualmie and North Bend, with local landmarks like Twede's Café becoming icons of television history. (info)

Events:

• Saturday Night Fever Pub Crawl on Jan. 25 from 5-9pm. (info)

• Après at Alpental on Jan. 25 from 6-8pm. (info)

• Sno Valley Pride - The Sparkle Party on Feb. 22 from 7-10pm. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

• Good Lazy Donuts is Coming to Grand Ridge Plaza Soon: Good Lazy Donuts, a popular brioche donut shop from Maple Valley, is set to open in Issaquah Highlands' Grand Ridge Plaza in 2025. Co-owners Annie and Noah Kim are excited to bring their delicious, seasonally-inspired donuts to the community. With over 70 rotating flavors, including savory options like whipped cream cheese with Everything bagel seasoning, their donuts are made fresh daily with attention to detail. Alongside the donuts, they’ll serve Boon Boona Coffee and unique lattes. (info)

Events:

• Issaquah Drink N Draw at Formula Brewing on Jan. 20 from 6-8pm. (info)

• Village Theatre Presents Dial M for Murder on Jan. 22. (info)

• Sip and Learn: Northern Italy on Jan. 23 from 6-8pm. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• Three Sentenced in Kirkland Murder: Three individuals have been sentenced for the 2020 murder of 18-year-old Cyrus Mason at Houghton Beach Park in Kirkland, WA. Joshua Hawthorne, Chrisean Kaufman, and Calvin Vao received prison sentences after being convicted for their involvement in the shooting during a botched robbery. (info)

• Kirkland City Council Meeting on January 21, 2025: The Kirkland City Council meeting on January 21, 2025, will feature updates on the 2025 State Legislative Agenda, a briefing on the King County Metro K Line project, and a presentation from the Kirkland Performance Center. The meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m., preceded by a study session at 5:30 p.m., and will be streamed live on the City’s social media and website. (info)

• Traffic Alerts in Kirkland: Several streets in Kirkland are undergoing construction with varying impacts on traffic flow. On 100th Avenue Northeast, alternating traffic or temporary stops may occur between Northeast 137th and 145th streets, with a reduced speed limit of 25 mph. On 116th Avenue Northeast near Lake Washington High School, one lane will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. due to sidewalk and stormwater improvements. Construction on 132nd Avenue Northeast will reduce traffic to one lane with flaggers controlling the flow from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., while periodic lane closures will also occur on Juanita Drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Further details on these projects can be found on the Kirkland website. (info)

Events:

• Aging in Place Part 2: Construction & Remodeling on Jan. 30 from 10am-12pm. (info)

• Kirkland Lunar New Year Event on Feb. 1 from 2-4pm. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• Mercer Island Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Sexual Abuse of Teen on Flight: 72-year-old Munir Walji was sentenced on Jan. 17 for sexual abuse on a flight. According to case records and testimonies, Walji sat in the aisle seat, the 15-year-old victim sat in the middle seat and her mother sat in the window seat. While on the plane, the victim was asleep and sexually asaulted by Walji. Walji was arrested when the plane landed in Seattle. (info)

Events:

• Community Coffee on Jan. 21 at 9:30am. (info)

• Teen Table Talk: Sephardic Cooking on Jan. 22 at 6:30pm. (info)

• Winter Workshop | Learn About Native Plant Gardening on Jan. 29 at 6pm. (info)

• Mercer Island Lunar New Year Celebration on Feb. 2 from 10am-2pm. (info)

Redmond:

News:

• Public Health Investigates Gastrointestinal Illness Linked to Redmond Restaurant: Two cases of gastrointestinal illness have been reported after dining at Kobuta & Ookami Katsu & Sake in Redmond on December 22, 2024. Symptoms included vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, but no hospitalizations or specific food causes have been identified. Public Health inspected the restaurant on January 10, 2025, finding improper handwashing, glove use, and food storage practices. The restaurant was provided corrective guidance and will be re-inspected within 14 days. Laboratory testing for affected individuals has not been conducted. (info)

Events:

• Council Conversations Town Hall on January 23rd from 5:30pm - 7pm. (info)

• Stinky Spoke Mountain Bike Ride on January 25th from 9am - 2pm. (info)

Renton:

News:

• Renton Police Investigate String of January Burglaries: Renton police are investigating 11 home burglaries reported through January 17, already matching the city’s monthly average. Thieves have targeted safes, cash, and jewelry, with several incidents involving homes on Northeast 17th Street, 138th Place Southeast, 110th Place Southeast, and 140th Way Southeast. Authorities advise locking doors and windows, collaborating with neighbors, installing security measures like motion-sensor lights, and avoiding storing valuables or large amounts of cash at home. (info)

• Renton Man Sentenced to 5 Years for Money Laundering in Family Drug Ring: Frank Lozano Graves, 57, received a five-year prison sentence for laundering nearly $800,000 in drug proceeds through a fake construction company tied to a family drug trafficking ring involving his son and daughter. Arrested in July 2023, Graves admitted to using the phony business to handle funds traced to the ring. At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Tana Lin criticized Graves for endangering his family and modeling drug dealing as acceptable. His son pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute drugs and assault. Graves will forfeit cash, a vehicle, and jewelry seized during the investigation. (info)

• Shakey’s Pizza Closes Renton Location, Ending Western WA Presence: Shakey’s Pizza Parlor in Renton will close on January 20, marking the chain’s exit from Western Washington. The final Shakey’s location in the state will now be in Pasco, Eastern WA. Founded in Sacramento in 1954, Shakey’s was the first franchise pizza chain in the U.S., beloved for its cornmeal-dusted crusts, fried chicken, and Mojo potatoes. The Renton closure is due to property redevelopment, ending decades of hosting family gatherings and celebrations in the area. (info)

• $79.7 Million Federal Grant Secured for King County’s RapidRide I Line: Renton Council President James Alberson, Jr., alongside King County Metro and federal representatives, celebrated a $79.7 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Funded by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the grant will support the RapidRide I Line connecting Renton, Kent, and Auburn with hybrid electric buses. Mayor Armondo Pavone highlighted its impact, saying it will enhance access to jobs and services. The I Line, set to launch in 2027, will improve Route 160 with frequent buses, accessible boarding, and upgraded station amenities. Learn more at rapidrideiline.com. (info)

• 120-Day Closure of Houser Way North Announced: Beginning January 21, Houser Way North will temporarily close between Lake Washington Boulevard North and Lowe’s business access road for 120 days, reopening by May 22. Approved by the Renton City Council on January 6 via Resolution No. 4545, the closure supports WSDOT’s I-405 Bellevue to Renton Widening and Express Toll Lanes Project. The closure will enable safe relocation of a high-pressure water line and installation of three stormwater pipes to improve water quality from I-405 to Lake Washington. The affected portion is a southbound one-way road. (info)

Events:

• Startup 425 - Startup and Small Business Coworking on January 31st from 10:30am - 2pm. (info)

• Moonlight Masquerade Winter Family Dance on February 7th from 6pm – 8 pm. (info)

• Teen Bingo Night on February 7th from 6:30pm – 9 pm (info) 

Sammamish:

News:

• Renovations Complete at Fire Station #82: Sammamish’s Fire Station #82, operated by Eastside Fire & Rescue, has undergone its first major update in 35 years, completed in late 2024. Originally identified in a 2018 building analysis, updates were designed in 2021 and construction began in 2023. Enhancements include 900 additional square feet, gender-neutral sleeping quarters, a new fire sprinkler system, redesigned kitchen and dining areas, and a new generator for emergency power. Mayor Karen Howe and other city officials toured the improved facility this week. (info)

• Cone Zone 1/17/25: Sammamish Traffic Updates: Ziply Fiber is installing underground high-speed fiber lines in select Sammamish neighborhoods, causing minor traffic delays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Louis Thompson Road will undergo vegetation clearing, tree removal, and storm drain preparation from Jan. 21-31 between 210th Place SE and East Lake Sammamish Parkway. Additionally, 187th Avenue NE near Sammamish city limits will close for approximately eight working days starting Jan. 29 for a City of Redmond development project, with detours on East Lake Sammamish Parkway NE and SR 202. (info)

• 3 Detained After Shots Fired at Deputies, Chase in King County: Three suspects were detained following a car prowl and shots fired at deputies early Friday morning. The incident began around 3:30 a.m. near 20900 Southeast 2nd Place in Sammamish, where a Dodge Durango was reported. Deputies pursued the suspects across I-90 to I-405 with assistance from Washington State Patrol, during which shots were fired at law enforcement. No injuries were reported, and one suspect was apprehended in Renton. The investigation is ongoing. (info)

Events:

• City Council Meeting on January 21st at 6:30pm. (info)

• Coffee with Council on February 1st at 9:30am. (info)

• TechnoHacks Hackathon: Beginner Coding Competition on February 8th at 9am. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

• Volunteer with Mid Sound Fisheries in Woodinville: Join Mid Sound Fisheries Enhancement Group on January 18 or January 20, 2025, at the West Sammamish River Trail in Woodinville to help restore Chinook salmon habitat. Volunteers will remove invasive species and plant native trees and shrubs to promote a healthier environment. Participants will receive detailed site access information upon registration. Those under 18 attending without a parent or guardian must bring a signed Youth Waiver Form provided in the confirmation email. Learn more and sign up for this impactful event on the Mid Sound Fisheries website. (info)

• We’re Hiring! Join Our Team!: The City of Woodinville is seeking applicants for two Management Analyst positions in the City Manager’s Office/Executive Department. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community while pursuing a fulfilling career. For more details and to apply, visit the City of Woodinville’s website today. (info)

Events:

• Candlelight: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons & More on January 21st at 6:15pm. (info)

• Woodinville City Council Meeting on January 21st at 7pm. (info)

• Live Music at Alexandria Nicole Cellars featuring Howard Mack on January 31st at 5pm. (info)

Volunteering Opportunities:

• Jeanne Hansen Park restoration on Feb. 1 from 9am-12pm. (info)

• Restoration Event | Luther Burbank South Shoreline Trail on Jan 25 from 10am-1pm. (info)

• Volunteer for Event Clean Up Sammamish on February 1st at 4pm. (info)

• Volunteer at Sammamish Landing on February 8th at 8am. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• Ristorante Paradiso in Kirkland: Nestled in downtown Kirkland, Ristorante Paradiso offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening or a family gathering. Their menu features classic Italian dishes, including house-made pastas and fresh seafood, all crafted with authentic flavors. The attentive service and cozy ambiance make it a local favorite.

• Barking Frog in Woodinville: Located in the heart of Woodinville Wine Country, Barking Frog is renowned for its innovative Pacific Northwest cuisine. Chef Bobby Moore’s menu includes dishes like beef tartare, wild nettle tagliatelle, and grilled octopus paired with smoked brisket. The restaurant’s elegant yet relaxed setting makes it ideal for both special occasions and casual dining.

Vibes:

• This week we have a mixture of clouds, rain and some sunshine at the end of the week. The temperature will bounce around from 30-40 degrees!

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.

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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)