Seastside Newsletter #58

February 24th, 2025

Hi everyone! We hope you are doing well. We have another amazing week of news and events for you. Now that it has been a little over a year of Seastside, we’d love to hear any and all feedback that you may have. We’re constantly looking to improve this newsletter, so please reply if you have any suggestions, ideas or feedback.

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Today’s Seastside includes:

• Metal bar flies through windshield

• Council approves project in North Bend

• Redmond smash and grab

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

Bellevue:

News:

• Executive Chef Kaoru Chang Brings Global Expertise to La Mar Cocina Peruana: Executive Chef Kaoru Chang, a Le Cordon Bleu graduate with experience at Nobu, leads La Mar Cocina Peruana in Downtown Bellevue. Drawing on Japanese precision and French culinary techniques, Chang crafts a menu that balances tradition and innovation, highlighted by signature dishes like the Cebiche Clasico and Nikkei cebiche. The restaurant offers an immersive dining experience with an expansive cebiche bar, Peruvian specialties, and craft cocktails. As Bellevue’s dining scene grows, La Mar emerges as a standout destination, blending authentic Peruvian flavors with exceptional service and atmosphere. (info)

• 51st BDA Annual Celebration Recap Photo Gallery: The 51st BDA Annual Celebration, taking place on February 19, 2025, in Celebration, Florida, promises to be a significant event focused on community engagement and business networking. This year's recap photo gallery showcases highlights from the event, emphasizing the importance of local business gatherings and community spirit. (info)

• Forum supports inclusive innovation: Bellevue continues to foster innovation and community engagement through its Inclusive Innovation Forum, scheduled to start on March 5, 2025. This initiative encourages collaboration between local businesses, nonprofits, and residents to enhance city services and promote equity in technology. The forum aims to address critical issues like policy development and digital equity. (info)

• Car Crashes Into Light Pole in Bellevue; DUI Suspected: A 62-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of DUI after crashing his car into a light pole at the intersection of Northrup Way and 124th Street Avenue Northeast in Bellevue. The incident caused significant traffic delays, impacting access to State Route 520 as crews worked to replace the damaged pole. Police reported the driver showed signs of impairment at the scene. (info)

Events:

• Bellevue Symphony on March 2nd at 3pm. (info)

• Bellevue Better Cities Film Festival on March 6th at 5:30pm. (info)

Bothell/Kenmore:

News:

• Metal Bar Flies Through Windshield, Strikes WA School Bus Driver in Chest: Stewart O’Leary, a Northshore School District bus driver, was struck in the chest by a metal bar that smashed through his windshield while driving on I-405 near Bothell on February 7. O’Leary was transporting the North Creek High School girls basketball team when the incident occurred. Despite being covered in glass and sustaining minor bruises, he remained calm, safely stopping the bus with the help of onboard coaches. After a hospital checkup, O’Leary returned to work the following Monday. The origin of the metal bar remains unknown, though O’Leary kept it as a memento. (info)

• 102nd Ave Bridge Set to Reopen Ahead of Schedule After Truck Collision Repairs: The 102nd Ave Bridge, closed since late October after a truck struck its underside on SR 522, is expected to reopen by Friday, February 28. Construction, which began on January 9, is nearing completion ahead of schedule. Overnight closures of SR 522 between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. will continue until repairs are finalized. Drivers should also note additional traffic impacts from the 102nd Ave NE Downtown Access Improvements Project and NE 185th St traffic revisions. (info)

Events:

• Break Even Bottle Program – Every Tuesday at The Cottage! on Februrary 25th at 4pm. (info)

• Wine Wednesday at The Cottage on February 26th at 5pm to 8pm. (info)

• Transportation Job Fair on March 1st at 9am to 12pm. (info)

Fall City/Snoqualmie:

News:

• A Self-Guided ‘Twin Peaks’ Tour Around the Snoqualmie Valley: Fans of the cult 1990s TV drama Twin Peaks can explore 10 iconic filming locations in Washington’s Snoqualmie Valley. Highlights include the “Welcome to Twin Peaks” sign spot on SE Reinig Road, the majestic Snoqualmie Falls, and Salish Lodge, which served as the exterior for the Great Northern Hotel. Other notable stops are Reinig Bridge (Ronette’s Bridge), Centennial Log at Railroad Community Park, and the former sheriff’s office building, now DirtFish Rally School. Visitors can dine at Twede’s Cafe, the real-life Double R Diner, or visit The Roadhouse Restaurant in Fall City, known as The Bang Bang Bar in the series. (info)

• 60th Anniversary Celebration of King County Search and Rescue Highlights Decades of Service: The King County Search and Rescue Association (KCSARA) celebrated its 60th anniversary on February 13 at South Fork Restaurant in North Bend, with 150 attendees honoring the organization’s achievements. Executive Director Carrie Lee Gagnon led the event, recognizing the 600-plus volunteers and King County Sheriff’s Office deputies who collaborate on rescue operations. Key honorees included Deputy Ed Christian, SAR coordinator since 2012, and volunteer Bob Gordon, recognized for 50 years of service. (info)

• City Council Approves TIB Grant for North Bend Way Complete Streets Project: On February 18, the North Bend City Council unanimously approved a resolution to accept a $1,002,519 Transportation Improvement Board (TIB) grant, with $220,066 in matching city funds, for Phase 1 of the North Bend Way Complete Streets Corridor Project. The plan aims to enhance accessibility, safety, and pedestrian connectivity while preserving North Bend’s small-town character. Phase 1 covers 2,400 feet from the Tollgate Park entrance to Ribary Creek Bridge, reducing North Bend Way from four to two lanes. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 following the selection of a design consultant. (info)

Events:

• Chat with Duvall City Council on February 25th from 10-11 am. (info)

• North Bend shoreline access workshop on February 26th from 6-7 pm. (info)

• North Bend Ballarat Plaza Workshop on February 26th from 7-8 pm. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

• A Peek Behind the Curtain Building the IHCA Budget: The Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) is currently drafting its annual budget, focusing on maintaining community property and planning for future developments. The budgeting process involves the Finance Committee, composed of homeowner volunteers, who work closely with staff to create a recommendation for the Board of Directors. This budget is crucial as it outlines how homeowners' monthly dues will be spent on essential services like maintenance, insurance, and community improvements. The committee also assesses the need for reserve funds to replace community assets. On February 24, the finance committee will present its budget proposal to the board, which will review and potentially modify it before approval. A public ratification meeting is set for April 28, where homeowners can express their views, with a 75% majority needed to reject the budget. (info)

• Issaquah Police Arrest Driver for DUI After Car Found in Trees: Issaquah police arrested a man for driving under the influence on February 15 after finding his silver Audi sedan lodged in the trees near East Sunset Way and Highlands Drive Northeast. The car was on its side, deep in the foliage. Officers determined the driver had been drinking, and breath tests showed his blood alcohol level was nearly double the legal limit. Police urged the public to use sober transportation, emphasizing the dangers of impaired driving. (info)

Events:

• Guided Hike: Moonlit Hike, See Poo Poo Point from a Different Light on February 25th at 6pm. (info)

• Cooking Class: Italian American Classics on February 27th at 6pm to 8:30pm. (info)

• Celebrate 90 Years with The Grange on March 1st at 9am to 6pm. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• Kirkland City Council Recap: February 18, 2025: The Kirkland City Council convened for a hybrid meeting on February 18, 2025. Key outcomes included an update on the 2025 Legislative Session, adoption of an ordinance extending the term for the Parkplace Project (now known as the Kirkland Urban Project), and a mayoral proclamation marking the Day of Remembrance of Japanese American Incarceration in Kirkland. Additionally, during a Study Session, the Council discussed the King County Metro RapidRide K Line project.  (info)

• Your New Favorite Way to Travel Kirkland Is Just a Tap Away: Metro Flex, an on-demand transit service, offers a convenient way to explore Kirkland for the same fare as a bus ride. Riders can easily book a comfortable minivan through the app by entering pickup and drop-off locations, with nearby pickup spots and estimated arrival times provided. Metro Flex offers a flexible, efficient transportation option for accessing shopping, dining, parks, and more within the neighborhood. Book your ride today. (info)

• Weekly Traffic Alerts for Kirkland: Drivers in Kirkland should expect various traffic impacts this week due to ongoing construction projects. Beginning February 24, Reed Excavating will close the west end of Northeast 120th Street near 124th Avenue Northeast for a week. On February 28, lane reductions will occur from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Northeast 124th Street near North Kirkland Community Center as pedestrian crossings are upgraded to High Intensity CrossWalK (HAWK) signals, with additional safety improvements to Central Way medians and new bike lanes from Market to Lake Street. Lane shifts and restricted turns will affect Central Way and Market Street between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., with parking restrictions in work zones. Alternating traffic continues along 100th Avenue Northeast between Northeast 137th and 145th streets, where the speed limit is reduced to 25 mph. On 116th Avenue Northeast, Kamins Construction will alternate traffic north of Northeast 70th Street during sidewalk and stormwater system upgrades. Drivers on 132nd Avenue Northeast will encounter periodic lane closures between Northeast 95th Street and Lake Washington Technical Institute for similar improvements. Lane shifts are also expected on Northeast 132nd Street between 118th and 120th Avenues Northeast as storm piping repairs are completed under the 2025 Aging and Failing Infrastructure project. Meanwhile, Juanita Drive will be reduced to one lane periodically between Northeast 124th and 128th streets from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with flaggers managing traffic flow. (info)

Events:

• Get Involved in Shaping Kirkland’s Homelessness Response on February 26th at 5pm. (info)

• I-405/Brickyard to SR 527 Improvement Project quarterly update meeting on February 26th. (info)

• Wheels and Reels on March 22nd at 6pm. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• MI’s Chase Warnick Claims 3A State Wrestling Title: Mercer Island High School senior Chase Warnick secured the 3A state wrestling championship in the 157-pound division on February 21 at the WIAA Mat Classic XXXVI in the Tacoma Dome. Warnick edged Tyrese Guzman of Shadle Park, 9-8, in a hard-fought final match. His path to victory included dominant wins over competitors from Liberty, Kent Meridian, Central Kitsap, and Lakeside. Mercer Island’s boys team finished eighth overall, with additional top finishes from Gordon Gibson, Maxwell Martin, Luke Sincock, and Lincoln Woods. On the girls’ side, freshman Emerson Woods made history by becoming the school’s first girls district champion and placing fourth at state in the 115-pound division. (info)

• MIHS Freshman Connor Carson Wins 3A State Diving Title: Mercer Island High School freshman Connor Carson capped off a dominant season by winning the boys 3A one-meter diving state championship on February 20 at the King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way. Carson, who also claimed the 3A KingCo and District 2 titles, secured first place with 428.85 points, edging out two-time state champion Alma Smith of Cheney. In state swimming, MIHS finished fifth overall, with standout performances from freshman Luke Dunn, who placed third in both the 200 IM and 500 freestyle. (info)

• MIYFS Foundation Fundraising Breakfast Draws Massive Crowd, Raises $416,000: The 23rd annual Mercer Island Youth and Family Services (MIYFS) Foundation fundraising breakfast drew over 500 attendees on February 12 at the Mercer Island Community and Event Center, raising $416,000 toward its $450,000 goal. The event featured speakers from the foundation and YFS department, along with residents sharing how YFS programs have impacted their lives. Highlights included videos showcasing mental health counseling at Northwood Elementary and the Hopelink Mobile Market partnership, which provides food to more than 100 people twice monthly. Carin Mack, a retired social worker, received the 2025 Philanthropy Award for her contributions to senior programs on the Island. (info)

• Roanoke Park Playground Construction Underway; Mercer Island Partners with PSE for Green Power Program: Construction has begun on the new playground at Roanoke Park, marking the first replacement project funded by Mercer Island’s 16-year parks levy renewal, approved in 2022. The renovation includes poured-in-place surfacing to ensure accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. R&R Construction will handle demolition, drainage work, and equipment installation, with the final surfacing added when warmer weather arrives. The project is expected to take three to four months, with the park’s tennis court remaining accessible via 70th Avenue Southeast. Additionally, Mercer Island has partnered with Puget Sound Energy (PSE) to boost participation in PSE’s Green Power Program, which matches electricity use with renewable energy from wind and solar sources. The initiative supports the local economy by creating green jobs and contributes to the city’s Climate Action Plan goals. PSE aims to enroll 100 new participants on Mercer Island this year, offering a $10,000 award for a community solar panel project if the target is met. (info)

Events:

• 3rd Annual Black Student Union Dinner on February 26th at 6pm. (info)

• Bond information meeting on February 27th at 6:30pm. (info)

Redmond:

News:

• Redmond Cannabis Store Hit with Sixth Smash-and-Grab, Owner Criticizes City Response: Hashtag Cannabis in Redmond was targeted for the sixth time in 18 months when thieves used a stolen car to ram the storefront early Friday morning. Co-owner Logan Bowers blames the city for blocking his efforts to install protective bollards, despite previous break-ins. The city argues that security improvements must comply with regulations and that bollards would not have prevented the latest incident. Frustrated by repeated burglaries and denied permits, Bowers calls for better cooperation to prevent future crimes. (info)

Events:

• DJ Spin Live Beats at WXYZ Lounge on February 26th at 6pm. (info)

• Taste & Torque: A Luxury Tour of Culinary Delights, Fine Wines & Rare Autos on March 7th at 6:30pm. (info)

Renton:

News:

• WA man linked to Aryan prison gangs sentenced to 13 years for drug trafficking: A Renton man, Shawn Ellis, has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for his role in a drug trafficking operation linked to Aryan prison gangs. The extensive investigation led by federal agents resulted in significant drug and weapon seizures, showcasing the ongoing battle against organized crime in Washington. (info)

• Renton police seek additional info following deadly crash that killed homeless man: Renton police are investigating the death of 44-year-old John W. McBride, who was struck by an SUV on February 8 while attempting to cross Southeast Carr Road. Authorities are seeking witnesses and video evidence, as initial assessments suggest there may have been additional circumstances surrounding the incident. The driver remained on the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. (info)

• Renton Police Arrest Dangerous Fugitive After Crime Stoppers Tip: Renton Police arrested Alberto Nunez, a known gang member considered armed and extremely dangerous, after a Crime Stoppers tip from a FOX 13 viewer led them to a home in Burien. Nunez, wanted for assault and illegal firearm possession, was found hiding in a closet alongside a rifle, pending forensic testing. Previously arrested for domestic violence assault, his bail was reduced last year but is now set at $37,500, with potential increases if new gun charges are filed. (info)

Events:

• Small Business Owners Networking event on February 27th at 10:30am. (info)

• ‘Parent Academy’ community meeting on February 28th at 6 pm. (info)

• Dragon’s Landing Celebration on April 13th from 10am to 5pm. (info)

• State of the City on March 26th at 6:30pm. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

• Sammamish Fiscal Sustainability Efforts: The City of Sammamish has identified a structural financial imbalance, with expenses outpacing revenues, leading to budget reductions and considerations for new revenue sources. A Fiscal Sustainability Taskforce recommended a $1M budget cut, a 6% utility tax, and a future Metropolitan Parks District, with the City exceeding the reduction target but still unable to sustain services. Public discussions on the proposed utility tax continue, with a possible vote in late March. (info)

• Kokanee Salmon Recovery in Sammamish: Sammamish has supported regional efforts to restore the native Kokanee salmon population, with this year's returns exceeding 8,000 fish—the highest in nearly a decade. Key factors include improved spawning habitat access through culvert replacements and dedicated volunteer efforts in fish counts, egg incubation, and habitat restoration. (info)

Events:

• Community Workshop: Bike and Pedestrian Mobility Plan on Feb. 26 from 6-7:30pm. (info)

• Coffee with City Council on Mar. 1 at 9:30am. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

• Woodinville’s ‘Community Conversations’ Launch: The City of Woodinville is hosting monthly informal gatherings where residents can engage with City Councilmembers and staff. The first session takes place on March 8 at Sidekick Coffee, providing a casual setting for discussions on local issues and city initiatives. (info)

Events:

• Silent Sky presented by Woodinville Repertory Theater on Feb. 28 from 7:30-9:30pm. (info)

• Sip & Silent Reading at Barnard Griffin on Mar. 6 from 6-8pm. (info)

• Boots and Brews Line Dancing on Mar. 6 from 7-8pm. (info)

Volunteering Opportunities:

• Volunteer at Lower Sammamish Commons Park on Mar. 5 from 3:45-5:30pm. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• Naan -N- Curry in Renton, WA: Established in 2005, Naan -N- Curry has become a cornerstone for authentic Pakistani and Indian cuisine in Renton. Specializing in halal dishes, the restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring classics like tikka masala, vindaloo, and their signature freshly baked naan. Patrons appreciate the consistent quality and friendly service, making it a popular choice for both takeout and dine-in experiences. The Renton location operates Tuesday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 7:30 PM, Friday and Saturday until 8:30 PM, and Sunday until 7:30 PM; it is closed on Mondays. For more information or to place an order, visit their official website. 

• Nine Way in Redmond, WA: Located at 14808 NE 24th St, Suite A, Nine Way brings the rich and spicy flavors of Sichuan cuisine to the Pacific Northwest. Known for their handcrafted noodle dishes and flavorful broths, the menu features specialties like the Braised Beef Noodles and Minced Beef with Green Pepper Noodles. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity is evident in their use of traditional Sichuan cooking techniques and fresh ingredients. Operating hours are daily from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Diners can enjoy a cozy atmosphere that reflects the warmth and vibrancy of Sichuan culture. For more details or to explore their menu, visit their official website.

Vibes:

• We are looking to partner with local businesses to help grow our little community! If you run one or know of someone who runs please let us know and we would love to talk with them and learn more. 

• This week in expect a mix of rain and clouds, with temperatures ranging from mid-40s to low 60s Fahrenheit. Notably, Monday may bring strong winds capable of causing downed trees and power outages.

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)