Seastside Newsletter #42

The best news, events and deals on The Eastside

November 4th, 2024

This week’s newsletter is brought to you by Shining Armor Media!

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Hello everyone! Another great week of news for you. We are releasing a mobile app for our personalized news platform, Headline, very soon. We would greatly appreciate your feedback on our new service before we launch the mobile app! If you have tried it out so far, please let us know what you think 🙂 

Today’s Seastside includes:

  • New supermarket in Bellevue

  • King County acquires new helicopter

  • Sammamish Town Square updates

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

Seastside Exclusive Deals:

(moved to bottom of newsletter)

Bellevue:

News:

  • Bellevue Police Report Five-Year High in DUI Incidents: In October 2024, the Bellevue Police Department recorded a significant increase in DUI arrests, marking a five-year high. Authorities are urging residents to utilize alternative transportation options when impaired to ensure community safety. (info)

  • City Council Meeting Highlights: The City Council discussed the 2025-26 budget and CIP process, updating the environmental plan, the sunset of the Bellevue Library Advisory Board, data collection on mandatory minimum sentences for public disorder crimes, and issued a Veterans Day proclamation. (info)

  • Startup Accelerator Launch: The 15-week program, launched in partnership with The Founder Institute and supported by several local cities, provides free entrepreneurial training and resources to 37 participants, prioritizing founders from underrepresented communities. Funded by the Port of Seattle and Amazon, the accelerator aims to foster innovation and collaboration without requiring fees or equity from participants. (info)

  • Meydenbauer Bay Park Expansion Webinar: The Parks & Community Services Department will present prospective designs for the park's expansion during a Zoom webinar on Nov. 7, with a Q&A session and an online survey open until Dec. 15. The second phase of development aims to improve connectivity, amenities, and accessibility, incorporating community feedback gathered over the past year and a half. (info)

  • T&T Supermarket U.S. Flagship Opening: T&T Supermarket will open its largest U.S. store at The Marketplace at Factoria in Bellevue, WA, on December 5, 2024, offering a wide range of authentic Asian products and culinary experiences. The grand opening will feature cultural performances, giveaways, and a rewards program offering exclusive discounts and benefits through the T&T App. (info)

  • Bel-Red Development Plans Shift to Condos and Townhouses: Developers in Bellevue's Bel-Red area are considering converting a previously planned apartment complex into 106 condominium and townhouse units. This change reflects evolving market demands and aims to provide diverse housing options in the region. (info)

Events:

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

  • Opening: Puffs by Matt Cox on Nov. 14 from 7:30-9:30pm. (info)

  • 44th Seattle International Comedy Competition Finals on Nov. 29 at 8pm. (info)

Bothell/Kenmore:

News:

  • Fatal Crash on I-405 in Bothell: A crash on northbound I-405 near Northeast 195th Street resulted in one fatality Thursday night. A vehicle spun out, hit a barrier, and was struck by another car. The driver of the spun-out vehicle died. The freeway was fully blocked for several hours, causing two-mile backups, but has since reopened. Authorities are investigating whether impairment played a role in the crash. (info)

  • Suspect Arrested in Bothell Homicide: A 49-year-old man was arrested for the homicide of a 42-year-old found dead in a Safeway parking lot on Friday night. Witnesses reported hearing a "pop sound," and text messages about drug sales were discovered, although no drugs were found at the scene. The suspect allegedly admitted to the shooting and has been charged with second-degree murder. (info)

  • King County Sheriff's Office Acquires New Helicopter: The King County Sheriff's Office has added a new helicopter to its fleet, replacing an older model from 1973. This upgrade aims to enhance the department's aerial capabilities for various operations. (info)

Events:

  • Speakeasy Chamber Auction at Copperworks Distilling Co., Kenmore: Nov. 8 (info)

  • Holiday Wine Beer and Spirits Walk on Dec. 14 from 5-8:30pm. (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. (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)

Events:

  • Dungeons and Dragons with community members on Nov. 6 from 3-5pm. (info)

  • After Hours Networking Fab 5 event on Nov. 7th from 4-6pm. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

  • Issaquah's 2025-26 Proposed Budget Presented: Mayor Pauly presented the 2025-26 Proposed Budget to the Issaquah City Council on October 28, 2024. Budget presentations and review sessions will begin on November 12, with final adoption expected on December 9. Community members are encouraged to participate in the budget process. (info)

  • Issaquah School District Proposes New High School to Relieve Overcrowding: The Issaquah School District 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:

  • Whiskey Tasting at The Gaslamp Bar and Grill on Nov. 4 from 5-7pm. (info)

  • Issaquah Fiber Arts Evening Meetup on Nov. 6 from 5:30-7:30pm. (info)

  • Open Mic Night at the Train Depot on Nov. 6 from 6:30-9:30pm. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

  • City Council Meeting Preview: The next Kirkland City Council meeting is on November 6, 2024, with a study session at 5:30 p.m. and the business meeting at 7:30 p.m. Key agenda items include discussions on the City Budget and public hearings on the Capital Improvement and Transportation Improvement Programs. (info)

  • AED Installation Celebration: Join the City on November 2 at Crestwoods Park for a ribbon-cutting event to celebrate the installation of a new Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The event will include CPR training and special guests from the Seattle Seahawks. (info)

  • Traffic Alerts in Kirkland: Traffic disruptions are occurring due to various construction projects. On 124th Avenue Northeast, traffic is shifted to the west side as work begins on the east side. Additionally, drivers near Lake Washington High School will experience single-lane reductions on 116th Avenue Northeast from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Other areas with expected daytime road closures and lane reductions include Goat Hill, Juanita Drive, and Eighth Avenue West, with flaggers managing traffic flow. (info)

  • Kirkland Police Investigate Violent Home Invasion: On Sunday, October 27, 2024, Kirkland police responded to a home invasion on Northeast 45th Street. An intruder entered through an unlocked sliding door and fired shots inside the residence, which was occupied by parents and young children. No injuries were reported, and the suspect remains at large. (info)

  • Kirkland Performance Center Announces Upcoming Shows: The Kirkland Performance Center has unveiled its November lineup, featuring performances such as "The Best of Pink Floyd" on November 15 and a "Studio East Family Weekend: Sing-a-Long" on November 16. Tickets are available through their official website. (info)

Events:

  • Frostival with Santa + Winter Markets at Kirkland Urban: Starting Nov. 30 and recurring weekly on Saturdays through Dec. 21, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM (info)

  • Kirkland Civic Orchestra Concert: "Tributes" performance on Nov. 9 at 1:00 PM at Lake Washington High School Performing Arts Center. (info)

  • Peter Kirk Community Center's 21st Holly-Day Brunch: Dec. 7 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

  • Planning Commission Recruitment Extended: The City Council is seeking applicants for the Planning Commission, with recruitment extended until November 19, 2024. There are five available positions: two Resident Lay Persons, one Resident Paid Practitioner, and two Non-Resident Paid Practitioners. Terms for these roles will begin on January 1, 2025. Interested individuals can apply through the provided link, and for more information, inquiries can be directed to the City Clerk via email. (info)

  • Mercer Island City Council Reviews Preliminary 2025-2026 Budget: On October 15, 2024, the Mercer Island City Council discussed the initial draft of the 2025-2026 budget, emphasizing 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 are scheduled for November 19, with final adoption slated for December 3. (info)

  • Mercer Island E-Bike and E-Scooter Safety Guidelines: The city has issued guidelines for e-bike and e-scooter use to ensure safety on roads and trails. Class 1 and 2 e-bikes, limited to 20 mph, are permitted on most trails and bike lanes, while Class 3 e-bikes (up to 28 mph) are restricted from sidewalks and shared-use paths. Riders are advised to yield to pedestrians, obey speed limits, and use safety gear, especially helmets. (info)

Events:

  • Bloodworks Northwest Blood Drive: Nov. 4, 2024, from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM (info)

  • Seahawks watch party on Nov. 17 at 1pm. (info)

Redmond:

News:

  • Cirque du Soleil 'Kooza' Coming to Redmond, WA: Cirque du Soleil’s “Kooza” will debut at Redmond's Marymoor Park from January 19 to March 2, 2025, under the White Big Top. Tickets range from $55 for midweek afternoons to $65 for weekends, with VIP packages offering backstage tours and exclusive access to a VIP suite. “Kooza” tells the story of The Innocent, a lonely character on a journey of self-discovery, and features a blend of acrobatics and clowning, exploring themes of fear, identity, and power. (info)

Events:

  • Flatstick Pub Trivia Night on November 7 from 7 PM to 9 PM. (info)

  • Holiday Centerpiece Craft, Sip and Snack Party on November 12 at 7pm. (info)

  • Redmond Lights Festival from December 7 to January 6. (info)

Renton:

News:

  • Renton City Budget Targets Public Safety, Cleanliness, Social Services: Renton Mayor Armondo Pavone introduced a conservative biennium budget proposal focusing on public safety, cleanliness, and social services for 2025-2026. Plans include adding eight police officers, expanding cleanliness initiatives in public areas, and investing in social services such as the Renton Student Health Hub and affordable housing support through HB 1590 funds. The budget, expected for final adoption by Dec. 31, aims to align with the city council’s business plan and meet the growing needs of Renton's 108,000 residents. (info)

  • U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree to Visit Renton: In partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, Renton will host the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree as part of its 4,000-mile journey from Alaska to Washington, D.C. Renton, the only city in Washington chosen for this year’s Whistlestop Tour, will hold the event on Wednesday, November 6, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park. Residents are invited to enjoy hot chocolate, holiday music, and take photos with the tree, along with sharing messages of peace and joy. (info)

Events:

  • Free Museum Day on November 6 from 10 AM to 4 PM at the Renton History Museum. (info)

  • US Capital Christmas Tree Whistlestop Tour on November 6 from 4:30 PM to 7 PM. (info)

  • Eastside Virtual Job Fair on November 14 from 10 AM to 1 PM. (info)

  • Project Be Free Family Resource Night on November 19 from 3 PM to 7 PM at VFW Post 1263. (info)

  • Renton Parkrun every Saturday at 9 AM at Cedar River Trail trailhead by the I-405 overpass. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

  • Town Square Funding and Budget Consideration: A proposed amendment to the city's budget suggests using $4.3 million from the Parks Department's Land Acquisition Fund to purchase land for a Town Square, replacing the initial plan to transfer $5 million from the General Fund. The six-year Transportation Improvement Plan primarily allocates resources to Town Center projects, with fewer improvements planned for other areas, such as E Lake Sammamish Pkwy. The city is also addressing a projected $42.5 million budget deficit and is considering a new utility tax to help manage operating expenses. (info)

  • Catch Basin Cleaning on 228th Avenue: From November 5 to November 8, the right lanes on both northbound and southbound 228th Avenue, between Southeast 4th and Southeast 32nd, will be closed for catch basin cleaning. Work is scheduled between 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Motorists should anticipate delays and consider alternative routes during these times. (info)

  • Eastside Catholic Ends Regular Season with 49-6 Victory Over Rainier Beach: Eastside Catholic (EC) dominated Rainier Beach with a commanding 49-6 win in their regular-season finale. Quarterback Isaac Corey and running back Jeremiah Burroughs led the Crusaders, with Corey securing multiple touchdowns, including a 20-yard pass to Carson McKelheer. By halftime, EC held a 35-0 lead. Rainier Beach managed a single touchdown late in the game, but EC sealed their victory with another score in the fourth quarter. The 3A postseason tournament kicks off on Nov. 15, with brackets yet to be announced. (info)

Events:

  • Creating Worlds for Games Workshop on November 5 at 8:30 PM. (info)

  • Cooking Club: Preserving Family Holiday Recipes on November 9 at 7 PM. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

  • No new news this week! Have a happy Monday!

Events:

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

  • Village Wines Live on November 7 from 5 PM to 7 PM. (info)

  • Trothe Winemaker Dinner at Barking Frog on November 11 from 6 PM to 9:30 PM. (info)

Volunteering Opportunities:

  • Volunteer Work Party at Swamp Creek South: November 9, 2024, at 11:00 AM

  • Volunteer at Duthie Dig Day on Nov. 6 from 12-4 PM. (info)

  • Volunteer at the Sammamish Lower Commons on November 6 at 3:30 PM. (info)

What we are currently loving!

  • Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar in Bellevue offers an exceptional dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and an extensive raw bar. Known for its elegant atmosphere and innovative dishes, Seastar is perfect for special occasions or a sophisticated night out. Signature items include the Dungeness Crab Cakes and the Seared Ahi Tuna. The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list to complement your meal.

  • 151 Days Chicken Soup House in Redmond offers an authentic Taiwanese dining experience, specializing in Bresse chicken soups. The restaurant's signature dish features Arlington Bresse chicken, renowned for its rich flavor and tender texture, raised locally in Washington. Guests can enjoy a variety of soups and traditional Taiwanese dishes, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort food with a cultural twist.

Vibes:

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

  • It will be mostly rainy this week with some sunshine peeking through.

Bainbridge Island via Feiyou Guo

Final Thoughts!

Happy Monday everyone!

Exclusive deals for you:

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  • 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)