Seastside Newsletter #40

The best news, events and deals on the Eastside

October 21st, 2024

This newsletter is brought to you by: Puget Sound Cleaners

Looking for a house cleaner? Let Puget Sound Cleaners take care of the cleaning and spend more time enjoying life. Enjoy free oven cleaning with your first service. Mention the newsletter to get the deal. (website) 

10 whole months of Seastside!! Thank you to everyone who has been reading the newsletter. We appreciate all of you 🙂 . Please try out our personalized newsletter website, Headline! You can receive newsletters just like this, for any city in the world.

Today’s Seastside includes:

  • A smash and grab in Kenmore

  • New parking fees at Snoqualamie

  • Many traffic updates

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

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)

Bellevue:

News:

  • Bellevue City Council Meeting Summary: The council proposed lowering speed limits on most local streets to 20 mph for safety and discussed budget plans for economic growth and environmental quality. They also reviewed streamlining permits for housing development and issued proclamations for Arbor Day and Hindu American Awareness Month. (info)

  • 3-Year-Old Struck and Killed by Pickup in Bellevue: A 3-year-old girl was tragically killed Tuesday night after being hit by a pickup truck backing into a parking stall at an apartment complex near Sammamish High School. Despite life-saving attempts by the mother and driver, the child died at the scene. The 45-year-old driver cooperated with the police investigation, which is ongoing. (info)

  • Classic Collision Acquires Factory Finish in Bellevue: Classic Collision has acquired Factory Finish, a Bellevue-based collision repair business with over 75 years of service, expanding its national presence and enhancing customer service in the region. (info)

  • Bellevue Arts Listening Session Highlights: Over 60 participants attended an Oct. 9 session to discuss the future of arts and culture in Bellevue, focusing on more galleries, youth engagement, and broader audience access. Feedback will guide city and Arts Commission decisions, with a related survey open until Oct. 31. (info)

  • Bellevue Collection Fashion Week Raises $96,000 for Nonprofits: The 2024 Bellevue Collection Fashion Week raised $96,000 for local nonprofits, with $56,000 benefiting KidsQuest Children's Museum and $40,000 supporting WWIN. The event featured runway shows, interactive experiences, and shopping, and has donated $1.4 million to community organizations over 19 years. Tickets for the 2025 event will be available next summer. (info)

Events:

  • Live performance by Alex Chadsey at the Rouge Cocktail Lounge on Oct. 24 from 8:30-10:30pm. (info)

  • Dracula - A Haunting Fusion of Movement and Sound at the Meydenbauer Center Theatre on Oct. 26 from 7-9pm. (info)

  • Saturday Wine Tasting: European Wines (other than France & Italy) on Oct. 26 from 1-7pm. (info)

Bothell/Kenmore:

News:

  • Bothell Seeking Proposals for Downtown Event Series: The City of Bothell is inviting proposals for the creation, production, and management of a recurring outdoor community event series in downtown Bothell. The goal is to enhance downtown vibrancy and benefit local businesses and the community. The deadline for submissions is November 15, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. (info)

  • Bothell Explores Renter Protection Measures: The Bothell City Council is considering initiatives to improve housing stability amid rising rents, including longer notice periods for rent increases and caps on move-in fees. Feedback is sought from property owners and landlords of smaller rental units, though rent control is not an option due to state law. (info)

  • Smash-and-Grab Burglary at Kenmore Cannabis Store: Early Tuesday, Theorem Cannabis in Kenmore was hit by a smash-and-grab burglary around 4:20 a.m. Suspects backed a vehicle through the front door, stole approximately $2,500 worth of merchandise, and caused significant damage. Six individuals, dressed in black and wearing masks, arrived in three vehicles and were captured on surveillance video. This incident marks the first smash-and-grab burglary since the business opened at its current location in 2021. (info)

Events:

  • EV Charging Community Workshop on October 22nd from 6:30pm - 8:30pm. (info)

  • Startup 425 - Startup & Small Business CoWorking on October 23rd. (info)

  • Hiking, Social Circle Event on Oct  27th. (info)

  • Dia de los Muertos event on November 2nd. (info)

Fall City/Snoqualmie:

News:

  • Women Honored for Heroism in Cougar Attack: Four women received the Carnegie Medal for saving their friend, Keri Bergere, during a cougar attack in Fall City on February 17. While cycling, Bergere was attacked by a young male cougar. Bilotta jumped on the animal, Tietz pulled its legs off her, and Schmidt-Williams used rocks to fend it off. Wolf attempted to call for help. Their bravery was recognized at a ceremony in Seattle City Hall. (info)

  • Snoqualmie Introduces Parking Fees for Skiers: This winter, skiers at Summit at Snoqualmie will need to purchase a parking pass in addition to their lift ticket, starting November 18. The resort is implementing this fee to manage overcrowding in parking lots from Alpental to Summit East, as increased visitors have made parking challenging. Season passholders will receive free parking permits. The new system will operate daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. through April 30. (info)

Events:

  • Live Music at Sigillo Cellars on Oct. 25. (info)

  • Live Music with Larry Murante at William Grassie Wine Estates on Oct. 26. (info)

  • Sunday Group Trail Run for all levels on Oct. 27 from 7:30am-12pm. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

  • Family Friendly Activities In The Highlands: The Highlands Youth Advisory Board is hosting a series of fun events for all ages, including the annual Treats & Tails on Oct. 19, Halloween Bingo, and the inaugural Teen SINGO Night on Nov. 22. Families can also send letters to Santa until Dec. 8 and enjoy Parents Night Out for kids in K-5th grade on Dec. 13. Reserve your spots early for these exciting community activities! (info)

  • Library Closure: The Issaquah library is closed for construction through November 30th. (info)

Events:

  • Nights of the Bricks - Adults Only Lego Event on Oct. 23 from 5-7pm. (info)

  • Henna Workshop | Diwali Celebration on Oct. 24 from 6-8pm. (info)

  • Trunk or Treat at St. Joseph Parish School on Oct. 25 from 6-7:30pm. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

  • City Council Discusses 2025 Legislative Agenda: The City Council reviewed and set priorities for the upcoming legislative agenda, focusing on key community issues and initiatives. (info)

  • Utility Rates Adopted: The Council approved new utility rates, impacting residents' water and sewer services, ensuring continued funding for infrastructure. (info)

  • Proclamation of Arbor Day: The City proclaimed Arbor Day and plans community events, highlighting the importance of tree planting and care. (info)

  • Community Input for Budget: Residents are encouraged to provide feedback on the 2025-2026 budget, fostering community involvement in financial planning. (info)

  • Senior Council Applications Open: Applications are now being accepted for senior council positions, offering opportunities for community members to participate in local governance. (info)

  • Recruitment for Flag Learners Advisory Group: The City is looking for flag enthusiasts to join the Kirkland Flag Learners Advisory Group, promoting community engagement with local symbols. (info)

  • Traffic Alerts: Southbound 124th Avenue Northeast has reopened between Northeast 116th and 124th streets, while construction on 116th Avenue Northeast is causing lane shifts due to sidewalk and stormwater improvements. Daytime road closures are expected on Northeast 116th Place in Goat Hill, and Juanita Drive will be reduced to one lane with flaggers directing traffic from Northeast 124th to Northeast 128th Streets, along with ongoing stormwater work at 86th Avenue Northeast. Additionally, alternating traffic is being managed on 100th Avenue Northeast, and water service installation is underway on 8th Avenue West, with pedestrian detours in effect at the Kirkland Avenue and Lake Street intersection. (info)

Events:

  • Día De Los Muertos event on Oct. 26 from 2-4pm. (info)

  • Pumpkins in the Park on Oct. 26 from 11am-3pm. (info)

  • Jenner Fox Band featuring the music of Paul Simon on Oct. 27th at 7pm. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

  • Mercer Island City Council Recruiting for Planning Commission Positions: The Mercer Island City Council is seeking applicants for five positions on the Planning Commission, with terms starting on January 1, 2025. The Planning Commission advises on land use and planning matters affecting the community. The commission will include two resident laypersons, one resident paid practitioner, and two non-resident paid practitioners from the industry. Applications are open through October 25 and can be submitted online at mercerisland.gov. (info)

  • Mercer Island Road Reopened After Two Men Discard Explosive Devices: Two suspects were apprehended after allegedly tossing explosive devices from their vehicle while evading a police traffic stop, which led to the temporary closure of I-90 in both directions on October 12, 2024. The incident, initiated by Bellevue Police, resulted in a significant three-hour traffic jam in the Mercer Island area. Washington State Patrol joined the pursuit, and traffic was halted as a precaution. Authorities successfully located and detonated two discarded explosive devices, and a third item was identified as a firework. The westbound lanes reopened at 3 p.m., while eastbound lanes cleared around 2 p.m. (info)

  • Council Adopts Ordinance Regarding Bond Issuance for Water Infrastructure Improvements: The Mercer Island City Council unanimously passed an ordinance on Sept. 17, authorizing the issuance of bonds to fund essential upgrades to the city’s water utility infrastructure. The bond financing allows the city to distribute project costs over time, providing stable utility rates and ensuring equitable cost-sharing for current and future residents. The city’s Aaa credit rating was affirmed by Moody’s Ratings, indicating a strong financial capacity. The bond sale is slated for the week of Oct. 21, with proceeds expected by Nov. 7. (info)

Events:

  • Mercer Island Treat Walk on October 25th at 4pm - 6pm. (info)

Redmond:

News:

  • Redmond City Council Adopts Resolution Opposing Washington Initiative 2066: At its October 15, 2024, meeting, the Redmond City Council voted unanimously to oppose Initiative 2066, which would prohibit discouraging or penalizing the use of natural gas in Washington. The Council expressed concerns that the initiative would undermine Redmond’s ability to meet its climate goals, including carbon neutrality by 2050. If passed, I-2066 could also hinder the City’s efforts to promote electrification through programs like the Energy Smart Eastside heat pump initiative. (info)

Events:

  • Craft, Sip, and Snack Party on October 22nd at 6pm. (info)

  • Pumpkin Patch and Fall Festival at Little Green Acres on October 27th at 12pm. (info)

Renton:

News:

  • Life and Longevity Law Enforcement Conference Focuses on Officer Stress: On September 23, the first Life and Longevity Law Enforcement Conference was held at the Renton King County Sheriff’s Office, bringing together officers from multiple departments to address stress and its effects on their well-being and community interactions. Led by Bishop Ivy Gaines and psychologist David Lewis, the conference explored how stress impacts the brain and nervous system, offering strategies for officers to manage stress effectively. The aim was to provide a roadmap for enhanced quality of life, fostering better officer-community relationships through stress mitigation. (info)

  • Road Work Closures: There will be intermittent lane closures on Northeast Sunset Boulevard from Monday, October 21, to Friday, October 25, between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. There will be shifting lane closures on both east and west sides from Monday, October 21, to Friday, October 25, between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Westbound lane closure at 3408 NE 4th St from Monday, October 21, to Friday, October 25, between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Park Avenue North (N 8th St to N 6th St) road closure from Monday, October 21, to Friday, October 25, between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., with detour signs in place. (info)

  • Bankruptcy at Renton’s Southport: The developer of the Southport complex, Michael Christ, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to sell the Hyatt Regency Lake Washington hotel and pay off $145 million in debt. This filing follows a lawsuit by 59 Chinese EB-5 investors accusing Christ and SECO Development of fraud over their nearly $100 million investment in the hotel, which they claim will recover only 10% of their funds after the sale. The hotel’s sale was paused due to the lawsuit, but bankruptcy proceedings aim to resolve creditor claims, with a $157 million offer from Ohana Real Estate Investors being the top bid. (info)

Events:

  • Fall Gardening Classes on October 23rd from 6pm - 7:30pm. (info)

  • Truck or Treat on October 25th from 5pm - 7:30pm. (info)

  • Costume Contest at the Olde Fashioned Halloween Party on October 26th from 1pm - 4pm. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

  • Puget Sound Energy Seeks 11% Gas Price Increase for November: Puget Sound Energy (PSE) has proposed a 10.6% increase in natural gas prices, set to take effect on Nov. 1, 2024, pending approval from the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission. This increase is driven by a reduction in a previous rate credit as part of PSE's annual Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA) filing. The average household would see an additional $8.97 per month on their bill. PSE is offering income-qualified assistance programs and encourages customers to explore energy efficiency options to offset costs. (info)

  • Eastlake Defeats Skyline in Rivalry Game: In a highly anticipated rivalry match, Eastlake Wolves triumphed over the Skyline Spartans 29-12 on Friday, Oct. 4. Despite a slow start and an early 6-0 lead by Skyline, Eastlake took control in the second quarter, scoring a pick-six and a 2-point conversion to end the half 14-6. The Wolves extended their lead in the final quarter with a 60-yard touchdown pass and a final rushing touchdown. Skyline managed a late touchdown, but Eastlake's defense held strong, sealing the victory. (info)

  • City of Sammamish Conducting Stormwater Pipe Inspections and Well Installations: The City of Sammamish began inspecting stormwater pipes on Sept. 23, with work continuing through the end of the year. The inspections, which include cleaning and related services, will affect various roads, including Issaquah Fall-City Road and Issaquah Pine Lake Road, with minimal traffic disruptions and occasional single-lane closures. Additionally, starting Oct. 8, monitoring wells are being installed on East Lake Sammamish Parkway Northeast as part of a future sewer main extension. The work, expected to last 10-15 days, will involve alternating one-lane closures between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. (info)

Events:

  • Legal Essentials for Operating a Business on October 23rd at 9:30pm. (info)

  • Halloween Party at Big Block Brewing on October 26th at 9pm. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

  • Woodinville Man Asked to Leave Store Over Service Dogs: James Oneal, a 62-year-old Woodinville resident who relies on his two service dogs, Sprinkles and Otis, to alert him to migraines, claims he was asked to leave a Value Village store after an employee questioned the legitimacy of his service dogs. Despite showing the employee an official card and explaining their role, Oneal was told to check out and leave. He expressed frustration with the encounter but hopes the store staff will receive better training on service animals in the future. (info)

Events:

  • Village Wines Live on October 24th at 4pm. (info)

  • U-Pick Pumpkin Path on October 25th at 11am. (info)

  • Arbor Day on November 16th from 10am-1pm. (info)

Volunteering Opportunities:

  • Duthie Hill Dig Day. Take care of the trails at Duthie Hill Park on Oct. 23 from 12-4pm. (info)

What we are currently loving!

  • The Well & Table in Issaquah is a cozy farm-to-table restaurant offering locally sourced ingredients and a variety of gluten-free options. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, this spot is a gem for those seeking fresh, seasonal dishes. Popular choices include the short rib ravioli and various brunch options. It's perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family. ​

  • Sparrow in Kirkland is a chic and contemporary dining spot offering a creative take on American cuisine. Guests rave about the well-curated menu, which features dishes like the short rib and scallops, alongside expertly crafted cocktails. The elegant setting and great service make Sparrow an ideal choice for date nights or special occasions.

Vibes:

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

  • There will be a mix of clouds, rain and some sunshine peeking through this week.

Seattle via Edoardo Busti

Final Thoughts!

Happy Monday everyone!