Seastside Newsletter #57

February 17th, 2025

Hello everyone! Another great week of news for you. Please let us know if you have any fun events or news pieces you want to share for the upcoming weeks, we’d love to add it to the newsletter.

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Check out Headline, an app dedicated to sharing news/events across all cities in Washington!

Today’s Seastside includes:

• Parenting workshop in Mercer Island

• Redmond community award

• Eastlake students win competition

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

Bellevue:

News:

• Bellevue Council Receives Update on RapidRide K Line to Kirkland: The Bellevue City Council received an update from King County Metro on the planned RapidRide K Line, which will run between Bellevue and Kirkland by 2030. Covering 16 miles, the K Line will connect Eastgate Park and Ride, Bellevue College, and Totem Lake Transit Center. Metro is currently gathering community feedback on proposed transit infrastructure improvements to enhance speed and reliability. The council also discussed the possibility of allowing employer shuttles to use BAT lanes, pending state law changes. Metro will return in March for a letter of support to secure federal funding. In other business, the council backed adding the Medic One/EMS levy to the November 2025 ballot, ensuring continued paramedic and EMT services in King County. Additionally, Councilmember Janice Zahn announced her resignation, as she moves to the Washington State Legislature. The council also proclaimed Feb. 19 as the Day of Remembrance for Japanese American Incarceration During WWII, with a related public art unveiling at the Bellevue Library. (info)

• Bellevue Launches Office of Housing to Address Affordability and Homelessness: The City of Bellevue has established a new Office of Housing, combining housing policy and homelessness outreach efforts to improve affordability, availability, and options. Led by Bianca Siegl, the office will accelerate affordable housing projects, streamline city processes, and invest in new developments. The initiative, approved during the 2025-2026 budget process, aligns with the city’s goal of creating a welcoming and inclusive community. Near-term priorities include developing affordable housing on city-owned land and updating Bellevue’s Affordable Housing Strategy, first launched in 2017. (info)

• Bellevue Police Investigate Robbery and Stabbing of 17-Year-Old: The Bellevue Police Department has launched an investigation into a robbery incident early Friday morning that left a 17-year-old male injured with stab-like wounds. Officers responded at 5:14 a.m. to reports of a disturbance in the Newport neighborhood, where the victim met with three suspects in a parking lot. After a brief exchange, one suspect attacked the victim with a weapon before all three fled the scene. The victim was transported to Harborview Medical Center for treatment. The suspects remain at large, but authorities do not believe there is a threat to public safety. Bellevue Police urge anyone with information to contact them at 425-577-5656. Updates will be shared on the Bellevue Beat Blog. (info)

Events:

• Art on the Avenue on February 17th. (info)

• Yummy Gyros at City Hall Plaza on February 18th at 11am. (info)

• Celebrating Black History Month with 'Voices Unbounded' on February 19th at 6pm. (info)

• Bellevue Network on Aging meeting on March 6th at 8:30am. (info)

Bothell/Kenmore:

News:

• Rising Egg Prices Drive Surge in Urban Farming: As egg prices continue to soar, many consumers in Bothell and beyond are turning to urban farming to ensure a steady supply of fresh eggs. Bothell Pet and Feed Supply has seen a significant increase in demand for chicks, with manager Brandyn Loska anticipating another record-breaking season. The initial investment for a small flock, including supplies, is about $160, and experts recommend buying at least four birds for socialization. While raising chickens is relatively easy, proper preparation is crucial, and new owners should be aware of the long-term commitment. The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) warns of avian flu risks and advises purchasing from certified suppliers. Regulations on backyard flocks vary by city, and prospective owners should check local ordinances before investing. Despite backyard flocks easing household shortages, they do not significantly impact the overall food supply. Chicks will be available at Bothell Pet and Feed Supply from March 6 through early May. (info)

Events:

• Veterans Breakfast and Learn on February 17th at 8am. (info)

• Lunch & Learn Bothell Kenmore Chamber on February 19th at 11:45am. (info)

• After Hours Networking on February 20th at 5pm. (info)

• From lot to construction loans on February 22nd at 11am. (info)

Fall City/Snoqualmie:

News:

• North Bend Citizens Academy Teaches ‘Why’ and ‘How’ of Local Government: North Bend’s Citizens Academy, now in its third year, offers residents a free, multi-week program to understand city operations, meet officials, and learn how to get involved. The 2025 program includes eight courses covering topics like economic development, emergency management, and public works, culminating in a recognition event with North Bend City Council members. Participants like Jenny Hennessy and Kim Eck joined to become better informed and contribute meaningfully, emphasizing that constructive civic engagement requires education and action rather than passive complaints. Since its launch, the academy has helped graduates become local leaders, including school board members and city commissioners. (info)

• Production company expected to film downtown Tuesday and Wednesday: A production company will be working in North Bend on Tuesday, February 18, from 2 p.m. to Wednesday, February 19, at 4 a.m. Residents and businesses may notice film crews, vehicles and activity in and around Twede’s Café, located in Downtown North Bend, at 137 North Bend Way. Parking will be limited during this time. (info)

Events:

• Carnation blood drive on February 18th at 12pm. (info)

• Pajama party game night on February 19th at 5pm. (info)

• Duvall Improv Social Club show on February 21st at 7pm. (info)

• Public workshop to discuss the new North Bend Shoreline Public Access and Trail Plan on February 26th at 6pm. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

• Kelly Jiang Appointed to Issaquah City Council: On Feb. 10, 2025, the Issaquah City Council appointed Kelly Jiang to fill the seat vacated by Victoria Hunt, who joined the Washington State House of Representatives from the 5th Legislative District. Jiang’s appointment runs until the November general election, when the seat will be up for a vote to complete the remaining two years of Hunt’s term. A four-year Issaquah resident, Jiang serves as Director of Strategic Initiatives at Bright Power, was a member of the City’s Strategic Plan task force, and leads both the Issaquah Alps Trail Club and Issaquah Alps Trail Running Club. (info)

Events:

• Intro wheel workshops at Northwest Pottery Collective on February 17th from 7-9pm. (info)

• Village Theatre Presents Dial M for Murder on February 19th. (info)

• Sip and Learn: Central Italy on February 20th at 6pm. (info)

• Cooking Class: Chicken, From Pan to Plate on February 21st at 6pm. (info)

• Guided Bird Walk at Lake Sammamish State Park on February 24th at 8am. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• 3 Sentenced in 2020 Murder of Teen at Houghton Beach Park: Three individuals have been sentenced for the 2020 murder of 18-year-old Cyrus Mason at Houghton Beach Park in Kirkland. Joshua Hawthorne, Chrisean Kaufman, and Calvin Vao had conspired to rob Mason during a gun transaction, which resulted in him being shot five times. After an extensive investigation, Kirkland Police arrested the suspects, who have now been convicted. Kaufman and Vao accepted plea deals for second-degree murder, receiving 123 months and 172 months in prison, respectively. Hawthorne was convicted of first-degree murder with a weapons enhancement and was sentenced to 196 months. (info)

Events:

• City Council Meeting on February 18th at 7:30pm. (info)

• Evergreen Hill Neighborhood Meeting on February 19th at 7:30pm. (info)

• Wheels and Reels Winter-Spring Drive-In Movies on February 22nd at 7pm. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• Parenting Mercer Island Creates Interactive Workshops: Mercer Island Youth and Family Services (MIYFS) launched Parent Labs with funding from the Best Starts for Kids grant from King County to help parents connect and navigate the challenges of raising children. These 90-minute workshops, led by MIYFS staff and school counselors, provide parenting advice while fostering a sense of community. Workshops are divided into three categories—elementary, middle, and high school—with child supervision available for elementary sessions. The first lab, focused on middle school parenting, addressed stress and anxiety, giving parents tools to better communicate with their children. Attendee Michele Agosti praised the program, saying it left her feeling more supported and prepared. Parents can register at www.MIHealthyYouth.com. (info)

• Local Students Launch Voices of Understanding: In response to rising tensions and a 140% increase in antisemitic incidents since October 2023, high schoolers Alex Kalish and Kenan Katib created Voices of Understanding (VOU) to facilitate respectful dialogue between students of different backgrounds. The virtual conversation platform aims to foster understanding rather than change minds by providing a safe space for discussion on divisive issues, including the Israel-Palestine conflict. Inspired by Kalish’s cut-short study abroad program in Israel, VOU has already partnered with Talk Matters and the Alliance for Middle East Peace and seeks school sponsorships and volunteers to expand its reach. Students can sign up online to be paired with dialogue partners and engage in Zoom conversations aimed at bridging divides. (info)

• 2 Suspects Identified in Hate-Based Graffiti at Mercer Island Middle School: Mercer Island police have identified two suspects connected to antisemitic and racist vandalism at Islander Middle School on January 1, 2025. Surveillance footage captured the suspects without face coverings as they defaced exterior windows and walls of the school. Authorities have not yet released further details but promise additional updates as the investigation progresses. (info)

Events:

• AFO In Person Training - Mercer Island Beach Club — Aquatic on February 20th. (info)

• Senior Resource Fair on March 1st at 10am. (info)

Redmond:

News:

• Redmond Earns Silver-Level Bicycle Friendly Community Award: Redmond has received a Silver-Level Bicycle Friendly Community award from the League of American Bicyclists, recognizing the city's efforts in improving biking infrastructure and promoting healthier, sustainable transportation options. The city aims to upgrade to Gold-Level status as it continues to update its Transportation Master Plan. (info)

Events:

• Cirque du Soleil KOOZA (multiple dates) from 7-9pm at Marymoor Park. (info)

• Polar Plunge on Feb. 22 from 11:45am-12:30pm. (info)

• DJ Spin Live Beats at WXYZ Lounge on Feb. 26 from 6-8pm. (info)

Renton:

News:

• Middle Housing Update & Community Engagement – Washington State's Department of Commerce reported a need for over a million new housing units, leading to the passage of House Bill 1110 (HB 1110) to encourage middle housing development. Middle housing consists of multiple attached, stacked, or clustered homes, improving affordability through efficient land use. Renton's Community and Economic Development Department will host an online open house on March 1 to discuss the draft ordinance aligning with HB 1110. Residents can learn more by registering for the webinar or visiting Your Voice Renton. (info)

• Startup425 Expands Opportunities for Entrepreneurs – Startup425 kicked off its first Renton event on January 31, 2025, at the Renton Library, introducing attendees to business resources like Gale and Book a Librarian. As part of a free monthly series, the next event will take place on February 27 at Renton Technical College from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants will explore available resources, learn workforce strategy development, and engage one-on-one with Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIRs) for personalized guidance. (info)

• Renton Murder Case – A 34-year-old man, Sean Lowe, is accused of murdering his mother, Leda Files, in her Renton apartment. His sister, Jessica Foxwell, revealed a history of drug use, medical issues, and erratic behavior. (info)

• Renton Gas Leak – A gas leak in Renton's Highlands Park neighborhood prompted a shelter-in-place order after a gas line was struck during construction. Crews contained the leak by 11:43 a.m., and Renton police, along with Puget Sound Energy, are investigating. (info)

Events:

• Sushi Roll Class at New Zen Sushi on Feb. 22 from 11:30am-1:30pm. (info)

• Renton Children’s Business Fair on Mar. 29 from 12-3pm. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

• Bike and Pedestrian Community Workshop: Sammamish is hosting a workshop on Feb. 26, 2025, from 6–7:30 p.m. at City Hall to gather community input on improving walking and biking infrastructure. Attendees can join in person or online. (info)

• Eastlake Students Win Samsung Science Competition: Three Eastlake High School juniors won the Washington state-level Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition with their autonomous snow and ice removal robot. Their victory earned them a $12,000 technology package, and they now compete for a national prize of up to $100,000. (info)

• Traffic/Constructions: The City of Sammamish continues to work with Ziply Fiber to resolve issues following the suspension of Right-of-Way permits for underground fiber installation, with increased inspections and improved communication planned before lifting the suspension. Meanwhile, a City of Redmond development project will temporarily close 187th Avenue Northeast near the Sammamish border for approximately eight working days, with detours in place. Work hours for the Redmond project will be Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents can submit concerns about Ziply Fiber’s work through the MySammamish website or app. (info)

Events:

• Community workshop: bike and pedestrian mobility plan on Feb. 26 from 6-7:30pm. (info)

• Take a chance for kids fundraiser on Mar. 21 from 6:30-10pm. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

• No news this week!

Events:

• Boats and brews line dancing at Watts Brewing on Feb. 20 from 7-8pm. (info)

• Girl Scout Cookie and wine pairing at Barnard Griffin Winery on Feb. 22 from 12-7pm. (info)

• Spread the Love: Butter and Wine Tasting Experience at L’Ecole on Feb. 27 from 6:30-8pm. (info) 

Volunteering Opportunities:

• Volunteer Opportunity: Nursery Potting on February 22nd at 9am. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• Lynn’s Bistro in Kirkland, WA: Nestled in the heart of Kirkland, Lynn’s Bistro offers an intimate dining experience with its 36-seat establishment adorned with soft green walls and fresh flowers on each table. The menu showcases a delightful fusion of French and Asian cuisines, featuring dishes like escargot, French onion soup, duck breast, pork tenderloin, and the signature crab cakes. Patrons have praised the restaurant for its friendly atmosphere and accommodating staff, making it a perfect spot for both special occasions and casual meals. Reservations are recommended to secure a table at this cozy bistro.

• Dan Gui Sichuan Cuisine in Bellevue, WA: Located at 13112 NE 20th St, Dan Gui Sichuan Cuisine brings the bold and spicy flavors of Sichuan province to Bellevue. Known for its authentic dishes crafted with high-quality fresh ingredients, the restaurant offers a modern take on classic Sichuan fare. The menu features specialties like spicy beef three treasures, fresh pot rabbit, and maoxuewang, catering to those seeking a genuine Sichuan culinary adventure. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its outstanding cuisine, excellent service, and friendly staff, making it a cornerstone in the local dining scene.

Vibes:

• The weather will be generally cloudy with rain most days this week. However, the temperature will be in the 50’s! Much better than the cold we were facing the past few weeks.

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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• 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)