Seastside Newsletter #36

September 23rd, 2024

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Today’s Seastside includes:

• Traffic/Road Updates

• Updates on Jewelry Thieves

• Final Farmers Market Days

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

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Bellevue:

News:

• Bellevue City Council Introduces Preliminary 2025-26 Budget: The Bellevue City Council reviewed the city manager’s Preliminary 2025-2026 Operating Budget and 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Plan this week. Key investments focus on housing, human services, public safety, and community engagement, with public information sessions scheduled for Sept. 23, 24, and 26. Additionally, public hearings will be held on Sept. 24 and Nov. 12. The council also selected Diane Carlson as the permanent city manager and adopted the Bellevue Airfield Park Master Plan, which includes improvements like an aquatic facility, pickleball courts, and enhanced trail connections. (info)

• Bellevue Launches Neighborhood Planning for Crossroads and Newport: On Sept. 17, the Bellevue City Council initiated neighborhood area planning for Crossroads and Newport as part of the Great Neighborhoods program. This initiative aims to update neighborhood plans within the city's Comprehensive Plan, focusing on housing, transportation, parks, and sustainability. The planning process will involve extensive community engagement to address local needs and guide future growth. (info)

• Affordable Housing Fee Waivers Now Available in Bellevue: The City of Bellevue is offering permit review and inspection fee waivers to developers creating affordable housing. To qualify, all units must remain affordable for residents earning at or below 80% of the area median income for the project's lifetime. Projects supporting long-term housing, emergency shelters, and homelessness services may also qualify. This initiative, part of Bellevue’s Affordable Housing Permit Review and Inspection Fee Program, aims to reduce development costs and encourage the creation of affordable housing. (info)

• ​​Bellevue PD Warns of Jewelry Thieves Back in Town: Bellevue police are warning residents about a group of jewelry thieves who have returned to the area, robbing and strong-arming victims. The suspects, described as three women driving a red or gray sedan or SUV, are targeting individuals in Bellevue. Three incidents were reported on the afternoon of Sept. 17, where victims had their jewelry stolen. (info)

Events:

• 42nd Annual Kelsey Creek Farm Fair on October 5th. (info)

• Budget Information Sessions on September 23rd, 24th, and 26th. (info)

• Bellevue Farmers Market on September 26th. (info)

Bothell/Kenmore:

News:

• NBA Star Zach LaVine Gives Back to Bothell High School: NBA star Zach LaVine returned to Bothell High School, where his basketball career began, to give back by funding a fully refinished basketball court. LaVine, a 2012 graduate, covered the $100,000 cost for the new gym floor, which has been named 'LaVine Court' in his honor. His jersey will also be displayed in the gym. LaVine, who helped Team USA win a gold medal in the Tokyo Olympics, encouraged students to work hard, care about their craft, and pursue their passions to achieve success. (info)

Events:

• Startup425 - startup and small business coworking on Sep. 25th from 10:30am-4pm. (info)

• Sustainamania Festival on Sep. 28th from 10am-2pm. (info)

• Arbor Day Celebration on Oct. 12 from 10am-12pm. (info)

Fall City/Snoqualmie:

News:

• North Bend Approves Middle Fork Development Agreement: The North Bend City Council has approved a development agreement with Middle Fork Property Development LLC for a 35-acre lot at SE 140th Street and 468th Avenue SE. The property is considered a prime development opportunity that could generate approximately 600 jobs and significantly increase the property value. The agreement, which lasts through Dec. 2044, supports North Bend’s economic development goals, helping address the city’s budget gap and supporting essential services for current and future residents. (info)

• New Light Pole Banners Debut Across Snoqualmie: The City of Snoqualmie and the Snoqualmie Arts Commission have introduced new wildlife-themed light pole banners featuring artwork by Susan Hass. The banners, which include relief paintings of an owl, chickadee, woodpecker, and fox, were selected through a public call for artists. This marks the first time the Arts Commission has solicited artwork for the city’s banners, which rotate 3–4 times per year. (info)

• Snoqualmie Casino Announces Key Leadership Changes Amid Expansion: Snoqualmie Casino has announced significant leadership changes as part of its ongoing expansion. Mary Lou Patterson, formerly the Chief Financial Officer, has been promoted to Interim Chief Executive Officer. Daniel Hanson, previously Director of the Snoqualmie Gaming Commission, has been named the new Chief Financial Officer. Asim Bajwa joins the team to lead Hotel Operations, bringing extensive experience in hospitality management. These leadership changes come as the casino expands with new amenities and upgrades, aiming to enhance entertainment and hospitality services. (info)

Events:

• Biennial Budget Public Hearings on September 30th and October 3rd. (info)

• Shoulder Season Sessions on select Saturdays from 3 to 5pm. (info)

• Bike Park Rodeo on October 5th. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

• Traffic Alert: Wildwood Blvd. SW: From Monday, September 23 to Thursday, September 26, contractors will be installing a storm drainpipe on Wildwood Blvd SW between SW Gibson Lane and SW Hepler Lane. Work hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and one-way alternating traffic will be implemented. Drivers are advised to use caution when driving through the work zone. (info)

• Issaquah 10-Year-Old Receives Hero Medal for House Fire Bravery: A 10-year-old Issaquah resident, Dylan Fields, was awarded the inaugural Community Hero Award by Eastside Fire and Rescue for his brave actions during a house fire on June 22. Dylan quickly rescued his dog, Sonic, and safely exited the house before it was engulfed in flames, as taught by his family’s fire safety drills. The Fields family lost their home of 20 years, but all family members, including their dog, made it out safely. Dylan’s bravery and quick thinking were praised during the award ceremony. (info)

Events:

• Historically Hip Open Mic on September 30th. (info)

• Last of the Season: Issaquah Farmers Market on September 28th. (info)

• Entrepreneur Trail Walk Issaquah on September 24th. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• People & Pets Recommended to Stay Out of Water at Houghton Beach: Public Health – Seattle & King County has advised that people and pets should avoid the water at Houghton Beach Park from September 17, 2024, due to elevated bacteria levels. The rest of the park remains open. Water quality tests conducted by King County revealed unsafe bacteria levels, prompting the closure of the swimming area. King County crews will conduct further tests next week. For updates, visit the City of Kirkland's website. (info)

• Contractor to Close 124th Avenue Northeast’s Southbound Lane: Starting September 23, 2024, a Kirkland contractor will close the southbound lane of 124th Avenue Northeast between Northeast 116th and 124th streets for road grinding and repaving. The closure will be in place 24/7 until October 14. Southbound traffic will be detoured onto Slater Avenue Northeast, with access to Totem Square available from westbound Northeast 120th Street. Metro King County will move a nearby bus stop to accommodate the work. This project aims to enhance Totem Lake by adding new lanes, wider sidewalks, bike lanes, pedestrian lighting, and upgraded utilities. (info)

Events:

• Juanita Friday Market on Fridays from 3-7pm. (info)

• Future Women in EMS and Fire Workshop on Oct. 19 & 20 from 8am-5pm. (info)

• Free Kirkland Health & Wellness Fair from 10am to 2pm. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• Soccer Community Gathers for MIFC’s 60th Anniversary Event: The Mercer Island FC (MIFC) celebrated its 60th anniversary on Sept. 22, 2024, at Islander Middle School/South Mercer Playfields. The event featured guest speakers, including former professional soccer player Brad Evans and former Seattle University head coach Pete Fewing. The day also included a performance of the National Anthem by eighth-grader Ava Carlson, entertainment from the Mercer Island High School pep band, and a variety of games and prizes. (info)

• Chinese Classical Dancing and More at Festival Carnival: The Mercer Island Chinese Association (MICA), in collaboration with the city of Mercer Island, hosted the inaugural Mid-Autumn Festival Carnival on Sept. 22, 2024, at the Mercer Island Community and Event Center. The event featured performances such as the Ink Plum Blossom dance by the Flying Fairies Dance Center, traditional Chinese music, martial arts demonstrations, and interactive activities including a tea ceremony, lacquered fan and lantern making, and face painting. Attendees enjoyed carnival games. (info)

Events:

• Family Movie Night: Kung Fu Panda 4 on Sep. 27th at 5:30pm. (info)

• Community Kindness Day on September 29th. (info

Redmond:

News:

• Redmond Police Warn Public About Organized Crime Group Targeting Asian Community: The Redmond Police Department has issued a warning following a series of 14 jewelry thefts, including one robbery and two attempted robberies on September 19, 2024. The suspects, part of an organized crime group, target older Asian Indian community members, approaching victims in SUVs and using distraction techniques to steal valuable jewelry. Police urge caution, advising people to avoid accepting offers from strangers and remain vigilant in public areas. (info)

• Redmond City Council Approves New Projects for Community Facilities District: The Redmond City Council has approved new projects for the Community Facilities District (CFD) in partnership with Microsoft. These projects aim to improve transportation infrastructure, including extending shared-use paths, upgrading ADA ramps, enhancing bike lanes, installing adaptive traffic signal controls, and adding accessibility features at Redmond Technology Station. The initiative is designed to make transportation safer and more efficient, supporting the city’s vision of a walkable, accessible community. (info)

Events:

• All About Pumpkins on Sep. 28th from 10:30-11:30am. (info)

• Ponies in the Park on Oct 5th from 12:30-2pm. (info)

• Redmond Historical Society’s 25th Anniversary Celebration & Social on September 28th at 3pm. (info)

Renton:

News:

• Hispanic Heritage Month in Renton: Renton celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 with various events honoring the Latin community, including a formal proclamation and cultural celebrations. This year's theme, "Pioneers of Change," highlights community leaders like Ted Rodriguez. (info)

• Story Walk at Sunset Neighborhood Park: A new story walk featuring "The Wild" by Yuval Zommer, presented in English and Spanish, was launched to promote reading and wellness in Sunset Neighborhood Park. The story encourages environmental responsibility and is available until October 14. (info)

• Final Day of Renton Farmers Market: The last market of the season will be held on September 24, featuring over 60 vendors, with live music and free parking available at Piazza Park. It's the perfect opportunity to stock up on fall produce. (info)

Events:

• Senior 50+ Resource Expo (Sep 27): Held at Don Persson Renton Senior Activity Center at 9 a.m., this free event offers resources and services for Renton’s senior community. Hosted by the Parks and Recreation Department. (info)

• Enjoy community celebrations: Good Neighbor Day on September 28th from 11am-2pm. (info)

• Halloween costume swap on Sep. 28th at the Redmond Community Center. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

• Stormwater Pipe Inspection (Sep 23 - End of Year): The City will inspect and clean pipes across various Sammamish roads, including Issaquah Fall-City and Issaquah Pine Lake Roads. Minimal traffic disruptions are expected with occasional single-lane closures and traffic control in place. (info)

• ADA Barriers Construction (Sep 24): Southeast 27th Street and Wells Fargo entrance will face temporary closures from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Traffic control will be in place, and right lanes on 228th Avenue Southeast may also be affected. (info)

• Community Van Trip Requests (Starting October): Hopelink will manage requests for King County Metro’s Community Van program, which provides pre-scheduled rides for errands, appointments, and activities. You can volunteer to drive or book a ride for 2+ passengers. (info)

• Virtual Focus Groups for Arts Strategic Plan: The City of Sammamish is seeking feedback on its first Arts Strategic Plan to enhance public artistic experiences, with online surveys and virtual focus groups. The first focus group is on September 25 at 6:30 p.m., and the second on October 15 at the same time; participants can join via provided Zoom links. (info)

Events:

• Community Recycling event. Benefit the environment and recycle a myriad of items on Oct. 19th from 9am-3pm. (info)

• Sammamish Spooktacular event on Oct. 26th from 6-8:30pm. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

• Northbound I-405 in Bothell Reopened: The paving work on northbound I-405 from SR 522 to SR 527 has been completed, and the lanes reopened at 5 a.m. today, providing a smoother ride for travelers. Thank you for your patience during the construction, and please continue to drive safely in the area. (info)

Events:

• Guerilla Marketing Workshop on Sep. 25gh from 11am-12:30pm. (info)

• Live music at Goose Ridge Estate Winery on Sep. 27 from 4-7pm. (info)

• Woodinville Farmers market on Sep. 28 from 10am-2pm. (info)

Volunteering Opportunities:

• East Sammamish Park Volunteering on Sep. 24th at 5pm. (info)

• Restoration event at Upper Luther Burbank Park on Sep. 28th at 10am. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• The Great American Diner & Bar in Issaquah offers a cozy and welcoming environment with a wide variety of classic American dishes. Known for its hearty meals, like burgers and meatloaf, the diner also serves a great selection of cocktails and beers. The diner is perfect for both family outings and casual dinners with friends.

• August Moon Chinese Restaurant in Sammamish is a local favorite for Chinese and Cantonese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its flavorful dishes, including egg flower soup, walnut shrimp, and kung pao chicken. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make it a great spot for a satisfying meal.

Vibes:

• Please try out Headline and let us know what you think!

• We’ve got a mixture of rain, clouds and sunshine for the week.

  

  Mt. Rainier via Peter Hulce

Final Thoughts!

Happy Monday everyone!