Seastside Newsletter #41

The best news, events and deals on the Eastside

October 28th, 2024

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Hello everyone! Another great week of news for you. We’ve sent out almost 500 newsletters to you all on our new platform, Headline! Headline provides you super personalized newsletters right to your inbox. Please continue to sign up and give us feedback on our personalized newsletter website.

Today’s Seastside includes:

  • New restaurants in Bellevue

  • Crash that led to a road closure

  • Tons of spooky events!

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

Seastside Exclusive Deals:

(deals have been moved to the end of the newsletter!)

Bellevue:

News:

  • Budget Talks and Preparation for the 2025 State Legislative Session: During the recent City Council meeting, updates were provided on the Grand Connection Crossing project and the proposed 2025-2026 budget, which emphasizes community engagement and human services support. Key legislative priorities for 2025 include funding for the Grand Connection design, ongoing transportation projects, and addressing housing affordability in Bellevue. (info)

  • Meydenbauer Bay Park Expansion Webinar: The Parks & Community Services Department will host a webinar on November 7 to present prospective designs for the expansion of Meydenbauer Bay Park, featuring a Q&A session with the design team. Community feedback will be gathered through an online survey from November 7 to December 15, with respondents eligible for a raffle of free ice-skating tickets. (info)

  • West Main: A New Culinary Destination in Downtown Bellevue: West Main, a three-tower mixed-use development in Downtown Bellevue, has become a hub for dining and leisure, recently debuting the acclaimed La Mar Cocina Peruana Bellevue, known for its fresh seafood and traditional Peruvian dishes. The development also features Tapster, a self-pour tasting room offering a unique drinking experience, showcasing a variety of beverages and encouraging guests to bring their own food. (info)

  • Theo Chocolate Opens Holiday Pop-Up Shop at Bellevue Square: Theo Chocolate has launched a holiday pop-up shop on the second level of Bellevue Square, offering a variety of festive gifts, including themed chocolate items and apparel. (info)

  • Bellevue City Council Approves 2024-2044 Comprehensive Plan Update: The Bellevue City Council unanimously approved the 2024-2044 Comprehensive Plan update, which aims to add 35,000 housing units and 70,000 jobs over the next 20 years, focusing on transit-oriented developments and mixed-use centers. The plan also incorporates climate-focused strategies to align with new state regulations and was recognized with a Vision 2050 Award for its community engagement efforts. (info)

Events:

  • Closing: Fallowween at The Bellevue Collection on Oct 31. Snap photos in front of Halloween backdrops! (info)

  • Diwali Event at Bellevue Square featuring displays, complimentary henna and more. Nov 2. From 11am-6pm. (info)

  • Sip and Knit on Nov 8 from 6-9pm at The Knitters Studio. (info)

Bothell/Kenmore:

News:

  • Whooping Cough Cases Confirmed at Bothell High School: Bothell High School has reported confirmed cases of pertussis (whooping cough) among its students. The administration notified families and provided guidance on recognizing and managing symptoms. While there is no widespread exposure, authorities emphasize preventive measures such as staying home when unwell, wearing masks if symptomatic, and avoiding sharing personal items to reduce the risk of transmission. (info)

  • Bridge Closure in Bothell: The 102nd Avenue bridge over State Route 522 is closed due to a truck crash. Traffic is being redirected while authorities conduct a routine bridge assessment, which has also reduced SR-522 to one lane in each direction. The truck driver is cooperating with police, and delays are expected as investigations continue. (info)

  • Kenmore Deputy City Manager Wins National Award: Stephanie Lucash has been honored with the 2024 Leadership Trailblazer Award by the League of Women in Government at the ICMA Annual Conference. This award recognizes her significant contributions to public service since joining the City of Kenmore in 2021, including her leadership in COVID-19 response, regional partnerships, and advocacy for mental health and affordable housing access. (info)

Events:

  • Trick-or-Treat on Main Street in Bothell on Oct. 31 from 5-7pm. (info)

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

  • Winterfest and Pop! Shops on Dec. 14 from 11am-3pm. (info)

Fall City/Snoqualmie:

News:

  • Community Gathers in Fall City to Heal: In the wake of a tragic shooting that claimed five lives, about 100 residents attended a community meeting at Snoqualmie Valley Alliance Church. Organized by the King County Sheriff’s Office, the gathering aimed to provide support and foster healing. Attendees expressed sorrow and emphasized the importance of community resilience in moving forward. Pastor Baly Botten highlighted the need to focus on hope, while Captain Tim Meyer noted the strength of communal connections during such heartbreaking times. (info)

  • Teen Charged with Murder in Fall City Shooting: A 15-year-old has been charged with five counts of first-degree aggravated murder for the shooting deaths of his parents and three siblings in Fall City on October 21. The family members were found dead in their home, with the teen allegedly using his father’s handgun. He is currently in secure detention, and a court decision regarding whether the case will be tried in adult court is expected in January 2025. (info)

  • Opioid Overdose Training for Parents: An Opioid Overdose and Emergency Reversal Training session will be held on November 6, 2024, from 6 to 7 PM at Mount Si High School. Led by EMT Robert Angrisano, parents will learn to recognize and respond to opioid overdoses, including administering Naloxone. Local experts will also discuss community resources. Parents can RSVP via ParentSquare. (info)

Events:

  • Dungeons and Dragons at The Trail Youth on Oct. 30 from 3-5pm. (info)

  • Nosferatu featuring live soundtrack accompaniment by Danny Kolke on Oct 31. From 7-9pm. (info)

  • Live music with Sheyenne Leonard at William Grassie Wine Estates on Nov. 2 from 5-8pm. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

  • Highlights from Highlands Council: Issaquah Highlands is hosting a New Neighbor Social breakfast on Nov. 23, following a successful dinner event. In 2025, the community will transition from a newspaper to a glossy magazine format called Community Connect. Upcoming events include art receptions, fitness initiatives, and the introduction of a CERT training course in February. (info)

  • ISD Proposes New High School to Relieve Overcrowding: The Issaquah School District (ISD) is seeking approval for a $642 million bond measure on November 5, which includes $182 million to build a new high school at Providence Heights to address overcrowding at Skyline and Issaquah High Schools. The proposed location, chosen due to proximity to the district’s largest student populations, would ease enrollment pressure and reduce the use of portables. If approved, construction could begin as early as spring 2025 to meet projected enrollment growth. (info)

Events:

  • Toddler playgroup on Oct. 30 from 10-11:30am. (info)

  • Senior Center Halloween Party on Oct. 31 from 11am-1pm. (info)

  • Halloween Bash at Vino Bella (adults only) on Oct. 31 from 6-8:30pm. (info)

  • Meditation Group at Blakely Hall on Nov. 1 from 2-3pm. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

  • Help the City Reduce Commutes: Comments are invited on the draft 2025-2029 Commute Trip Reduction Plan, which aims to cut carbon emissions and alleviate traffic congestion. Feedback is due by October 31 and can be submitted through the Washington State Department of Transportation website. (info)

  • Share Your Budget Input: The community is encouraged to participate in the 2025-2026 budget planning process by reviewing the preliminary budget and providing feedback by November 5. Participants can also take a quiz for a chance to win $60 in Kirkland Ca$h. (info)

  • Help Design an Official Kirkland Flag: Residents are invited to submit designs for an official Kirkland flag by November 15, 2024. The design criteria can be found on the city's website, allowing community members to contribute to Kirkland's history. (info)

  • Police Wear Pink for a Purpose: Kirkland Police are selling pink patches to support pediatric cancer awareness. Proceeds from the sales will contribute to awareness initiatives and local organizations. (info)

  • Girls Youth Basketball League Registration: Registration is open for the Girls Youth Basketball League for 3rd to 6th graders, with a deadline of November 5. The registration fee is $160, providing an opportunity for young athletes to participate in the sport. (info)

  • Traffic alerts: Kirkland is currently experiencing road work in multiple locations, including 124th Avenue Northeast and 116th Avenue Northeast, which may affect traffic patterns and travel times. Residents are advised to plan their routes accordingly and stay informed about specific construction schedules and potential detours by checking the city’s website for ongoing updates. (info)

Events:

  • Kirkland Blood Drive on Nov. 6 & 7 from 9am-4pm. (info)

  • Kirkland Teen Union Building open house on Nov. 12 from 6:30-8pm. (info)

  • Wheels and Reels Drive In Movies on Nov. 23 at 7pm. (pre-registration required) (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

  • Mercer Island City Council Reviews Preliminary 2025-2026 Budget: At an Oct. 15 meeting, Mercer Island City Council discussed the initial 2025-2026 budget draft, available for review on the city website. City Manager Jessi Bon highlighted budget priorities, such as critical infrastructure improvements, partnerships with Eastside Fire & Rescue, and maintaining core services. Revenue projections for 2024 indicate growth, with sales tax expected to reach $7.3 million. Further budget hearings will occur on Nov. 19, with final adoption slated for Dec. 3. (info)

  • Mercer Island Mansion Sale Leads Washington's Top Residential Deals of 2024: The sale of a 10,000-square-foot mansion located at 7002 N Mercer Way on Mercer Island ranks as one of Washington’s largest residential transactions this year. After two years on the market, interest in the property surged recently, resulting in its sale. The property, which boasts luxury features and prime location on the north end of Mercer Island, highlights the continued demand for high-end real estate in the region. (info)

  • Mercer Island E-Bike and E-Scooter Safety Guidelines: Mercer Island emphasizes the importance of understanding local laws for e-bike and e-scooter use to ensure road and trail safety. E-bikes are classified as Class 1, 2, or 3, with speed restrictions and specific access rules. Class 1 and 2 e-bikes, limited to 20 mph, can be used on most trails and bike lanes, while Class 3 e-bikes (up to 28 mph) are restricted from sidewalks and shared-use paths. Electric motorcycles exceed these speeds, requiring licenses and are restricted to roads only. Riders must yield to pedestrians, obey speed limits, and use safety gear, especially helmets. (info)

Events:

  • Community Coffee Halloween at the Community Center on October 31st at 9am. (info)

  • Parents Night Out on November 1st (info)

  • Bloodworks Northwest Blood Drive on November 4th from 10:30am to 4:30pm. (info)

Redmond:

News:

  • Redmond Lights Celebration to Illuminate Downtown Park: Redmond Lights, a month-long winter celebration, will transform Downtown Park with art and light installations from Dec. 7, 2024, through Jan. 6, 2025. The festivities kick off on Dec. 7 from 4-8 p.m. with family-friendly activities, food vendors, and a Luminary Trail. This event, sponsored by local businesses like Amazon and Microsoft, will feature works from artists Anika Goyal, Britta Johnson, and others, alongside activities at Redmond Town Center. For more information, visit redmond.gov/RedmondLights. (info)

  • Redmond Police Alert Community to Organized Jewelry Theft Ring: On September 21, 2024, Redmond police issued a warning about a series of jewelry thefts and robberies believed to be tied to an organized crime group. In total, there were 14 incidents, including one robbery and two attempted robberies on September 19. Police released surveillance footage and are urging residents to stay vigilant as these thefts continue to increase in the area. (info)

Events:

  • Trick-or-Treat at RTC on October 31st at 4pm - 6pm. (info)

  • Flatstick Pub Trivia on November 7th at 7pm - 9pm. (info)

Renton:

News:

  • Motorcyclist Injured After Collision with Abandoned Trailer in Renton: On October 24, a motorcyclist suffered serious injuries after colliding with an abandoned trailer in the HOV lane on northbound I-405 near 44th Street in Renton, Washington. The motorcyclist was ejected after hitting both the trailer and a semi-truck. Washington State Patrol (WSP) is requesting that anyone with dashboard camera footage or other relevant information about the incident contact Detective John Ford at [email protected]. (info)

  • WSP Seeks Missing Man Last Seen in Renton Adult Care Facility: Washington State Patrol has issued a Missing Indigenous Person Alert for Talin Morris, a 34-year-old man last seen on October 13 around 5:30 p.m. at an adult care facility on 126th Place Southeast in Renton. Morris, described as 6'2" and 240 lbs, with black hair and brown eyes, was last seen wearing a brown canvas jacket and dark blue jeans. He mentioned visiting his grandmother's home in Bellingham, but his family has not heard from him. Anyone with information is urged to call 911. (info)

  • Future Women in Fire and EMS Workshop Inspires Next Generation of Firefighters: The Renton Regional Fire Authority, in collaboration with the King County Fire Association, hosted the 11th annual Future Women in Fire and EMS Workshop from Oct. 19-20. The event, designed by and for women, welcomed 40 participants to explore firefighting and EMS careers through hands-on activities, such as ladder use, hose handling, chainsaw operation, and CPR training. Led by female instructors, the workshop aimed to inspire attendees to consider firefighting as a viable career path by showcasing the daily tasks and challenges faced by firefighters. (info)

Events:

  • Free Museum Day at the Renton History Museum on November 6th from 10am - 4pm. (info)

  • The Renton American Legion Fred Hancock Post 19 Business Meeting on November 12th. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

  • Eastlake Student to Conduct Zero-Gravity Science Experiment: Lily Myers, a Running Start student at Bellevue College, has been selected by NASA to test a science project tackling fuel sloshing in jet engines on a zero-gravity flight in April 2025. Her experiment, which uses polyurethane foam to stabilize liquid fuel, aims to improve balance and energy efficiency in aerospace vehicles. Inspired by her NASA SEES internship, Myers will test her design on 30 parabolic flights, representing one of only four U.S. students chosen for this rare opportunity. (info)

  • 8th District Race Pits Schrier and Goers on Moderate Appeal: As the race heats up in Washington's 8th District, incumbent Kim Schrier (D) and challenger Carmen Goers (R) focus on issues like the economy, public safety, and agriculture. Schrier, a pediatrician and House representative since 2018, highlights her bipartisan legislative track record and endorsements, while Goers, a commercial banker, emphasizes her community service and aims to tackle high costs and bolster law enforcement funding. Both candidates oppose extreme stances, with Goers pledging to resist a national abortion ban, and Schrier aiming to protect healthcare access and oppose corporate consolidations. (info)

  • Citywide Stormwater Pipe Inspection Underway: The City of Sammamish began inspecting and servicing stormwater pipes on Sept. 23, with work expected to continue through the end of the year. Current projects are located along Klahanie Blvd at 242nd Ave South, 23918 Southeast 42 Place, and 4366 239th Place Southeast. Traffic disruptions will be minimal, with occasional single-lane closures managed by signage and traffic control. (info)

Events:

  • City Council Meeting on November 4th at 6:30pm. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

  • No new news this week! Have a good week everyone!

Events:

  • Live Music at Goose Ridge Estate Winery on November 1st at 4pm. (info)

  • Woodinville Farmers Market on November 2nd at 10am. (info)

Volunteering Opportunities:

  • Volunteer at Big Rock Park South on November 2nd at 4pm. (info)

  • Volunteer Work Party at Swamp Creek South on Nov. 9 at 11am. (info)

What we are currently loving!

  • Heritage Restaurant|Bar in Woodinville is a community-centered establishment located in the heart of Woodinville Wine Country. This full-service restaurant, led by a local chef-owner, combines modern American flavors with a welcoming ambiance. Menu highlights include dishes that celebrate locally sourced ingredients, and the wine list is curated to complement the region’s offerings. Whether you're in for brunch or dinner, Heritage is ideal for a relaxed yet refined dining experience.

  • Vinason Pho & Grill in Sammamish offers a cozy and casual dining option focused on Vietnamese cuisine. Known for its flavorful pho and fresh ingredients, the restaurant also features a variety of rice bowls and grilled options. Vinason is perfect for a quick, comforting meal, ideal for families or individuals looking for a taste of authentic Vietnamese flavors in Sammamish.

Vibes:

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

  • It will be mostly rain this week with some sun poking through the clouds.

Mount Baker via Aaron Bishop

Final Thoughts!

Happy Monday everyone! Exclusive deals below:

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  • 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)