Seastside Newsletter #44

November 18th, 2024

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.

Today’s Seastside includes:

• Affordable Housing Updates

• Restaurant Reopening

• Traffic and Road Closures

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

Bellevue:

News:

• Bellevue Naturalist Training Program: Applications are open for Bellevue's free Naturalist training, aiming to develop volunteer environmental stewards. Training runs Feb. 6 to April 29, 2025; applicants must commit to 100 hours of service post-training. (info)

• Bellevue Apartment Fire Displaces Residents: A fire in a Bellevue apartment complex temporarily displaced residents from 15 to 20 units due to smoke and water damage. The building's sprinkler system controlled the fire, preventing more severe damage, and the Red Cross is assisting affected families. (info)

• Bellevue City Council Budget Hearing & Affordable Housing Update: The Bellevue City Council held its final public hearing on the 2025-2026 budget and discussed the Affordable Housing Strategy update, aiming to create or preserve 5,700 affordable units by 2034. The council also proclaimed Dutch American Heritage Day, recognizing contributions from the Dutch-American community. (info)

• Bellevue Tree Giveaway Distributes Over 700 Trees to Residents: In partnership with 300 Trees and Amazon, Bellevue provided more than 700 free trees to community members and organizations this year, bringing the total to over 3,200 trees since the program began. Aiming for equitable canopy growth, the city uses Tree Equity Scores to prioritize areas in need. Participants also received watering bags, mulch, and planting guidance. Applications for next year’s program open in June, with notifications sent in September 2025. (info)

Events:

• Saturday Wine Tasting: Bdling Tastings: at Story in a Bottle Wines on Nov. 23 from 1-7pm. (info)

• Bellevue Arts Museum Holiday Arts Fair on Nov. 29 from 4-8pm. (info)

• Opening: Garden d’Lights at Bellevue Botanical Garden on Nov. 30 - Dec. 31 at 4:30pm nightly. (info)

Bothell/Kenmore:

News:

• School Bus, Pickup Truck Crash Closes I-405 in Bothell: A crash involving a school bus carrying the La Conner girls’ soccer team and a pickup truck blocked southbound lanes of I-405 in Bothell. Thankfully, no injuries were reported among the students or staff, though the pickup driver sustained minor injuries. The lanes reopened by 3:10 p.m., and first responders ensured safe transportation for the team via a city bus. The Washington State Patrol is investigating the cause of the collision. (info)

• Community Development Director Debbie Bent Recognized with Myer Wolfe Award: Debbie Bent, Community Development Director for Kenmore, WA, was honored with the prestigious Myer Wolfe Award by the APA Washington Chapter on October 17. With over 30 years of experience, including 26 years at Kenmore, Bent has significantly influenced the city’s growth, leading numerous projects, including the city's first comprehensive plans, parks, and waterfront developments. (info)

Events:

• Christmas Outdoor Market on Dec. 7 at 12pm. (info)

• Bothell Holiday Wine, Beer & Spirits Walk on Dec. 15 at 5pm. (info)

• Career in Law Enforcement Workshop on Dec. 4 at 6pm. (info)

Fall City/Snoqualmie:

News:

• Defense Team Accused of Tampering with Evidence in Fall City Murders: Prosecutors allege that the defense team for a 15-year-old boy accused of murdering his family in Fall City violated a court order by altering or removing items from the crime scene during an unsupervised visit to the home. Investigators claim photographs show missing items and tampered evidence, and are seeking to compel the defense to hand over materials collected during their visit. The boy is accused of shooting his parents and siblings, and staging the scene to make it appear as if one of the victims committed the murders. (info)

• Volunteer on City Commissions | Help Shape Your Community: The City of Snoqualmie is seeking volunteers for multiple commissions to influence local development, parks, arts, and economic growth. Open positions include the Arts Commission, Economic Development Commission, Parks & Events Commission, and Planning Commission. Volunteers help shape decisions that directly impact the city's future. For more information and to apply, visit the City of Snoqualmie's website or contact the City Clerk. (info)

• Celebrate the Magic of the Season at Snoqualmie Winter Lights: Join the festive spirit at Snoqualmie Winter Lights on Saturday, December 7, from 4-6 p.m. in Historic Downtown Snoqualmie. The event will feature live music, holiday tree lighting, and a special visit from Santa. Enjoy family-friendly activities like photo ops with the tree, ice carving, free face painting, and cider. Afterward, stay downtown to enjoy the lights and local dining options. Don't miss this annual tradition! (info

Events:

• Post-Thanksgiving North Snoqualmie Ridge Plantin Event on Nov. 30 from 9am-12pm. (info)

• Beginning Acrylic Painting Workshop on Nov. 23 at 1pm. (info)

• Fall City Holiday Market on Dec. 7th from 10am-3pm. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

• The Egg & Us Reopens in Issaquah: After a closure since May 2021, the popular Issaquah restaurant, The Egg & Us, has officially reopened. (info)

• Kirk Park Playground Construction Begins: The Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) has started the playground equipment replacement project at Kirk Park. Beginning November 13, the playground area will be closed for about two months, while the gazebo will remain open. This improvement project, supported by the IHCA Playground Improvement Committee and approved by the Board, aims to bring more fun to the community. A formal announcement will be made once the playground reopens. (info)

Events:

• Village Theater Presents Legally Blonde, The Musical on Nov. 20 (info)

• Comedy Night at Vino Bella on Nov. 20 from 7-8:30pm. (info)

• Thanksgiving Luncheon at the Issaquah Senior Center on Nov. 21 from 12-1pm. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• City Council Meeting Preview: Kirkland's next City Council meeting will be on November 19, 2024. Highlights include discussions on the 2025 property tax levy, feedback on the 2025-2026 budget, adoption of the Transportation Strategic Plan, and the final draft of the 2044 Comprehensive Plan. The meeting will be held both in person and via Zoom, with a study session at 5:30 p.m. (info)

• Stormwater Innovation Awards: Kirkland has won several prestigious awards for its stormwater projects, including a first-place award from the National Association of Flood and Stormwater Management Agencies (NAFSMA) for its Interactive Creek Health Dashboard and successful stormwater infrastructure work at 132nd Square Park. (info)

• Budget Planning for 2025-26: The city is seeking community input on the budget for 2025-26. Residents can take a 10-question quiz and share feedback on key issues such as public safety and parks funding. The city is also encouraging donations to local nonprofits through the Ignite Kirkland initiative, which funds various community projects. (info)

• Fall Leaf Management: Kirkland is offering additional yard waste pickup through November, with up to five 32-gallon bags allowed for free. Residents are urged to manage fallen leaves to prevent flooding and water quality issues. (info)

• Weekend Closure of NE 85th St at I-405: NE 85th Street will be closed for construction from Friday, Nov. 15 at 11 p.m. until Monday, Nov. 18 at 4 a.m. This closure is part of a project to build new travel lanes on I-405. Detours will be in place. (info)

• Kirkland Police Investigate Fatal Crash: On November 15, 2024, a 92-year-old Kirkland resident died in a single-vehicle rollover crash on 98th Avenue NE. The driver hit a light pole, causing the vehicle to flip. Despite emergency efforts, the driver did not survive. The Kirkland Police Traffic Team is investigating the cause, with the King County Medical Examiner examining potential contributing medical conditions. (info)

Events:

• Frostival with Santa + Winter Markets at Kirkland Urban on Nov. 30- Dec. 21 from 4-7pm. (info)

• Sound Bath Class at Heritage Hall on Dec. 10 from 6:30-7:30pm. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• Mercer Island Planning Commission Recruitment Extended: The City of Mercer Island is extending its recruitment for the Planning Commission through November 19, 2024. There are five open positions, including two Resident Lay Persons, one Resident Paid Practitioner, and two Non-Resident Paid Practitioners, with terms beginning January 1, 2025. Applications can be submitted through the provided link before the deadline. For more information or questions, contact the City Clerk, Andrea Larson. (info)

Events:

• Blue Friday Community Coffee on Nov. 22 at 9:30am (info)

• Seahawks Watch Party on Nov. 24 at 1:25pm. (info)

• Illuminate Mercer Island: Tree Lighting on Dec. 5 at 5:30pm. (info)

Redmond:

News:

• Redmond Library Closed for Construction: The Redmond Library will be closed for construction from November 18 to December 25, 2024. During this period, the library will replace its heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, as well as the system that processes materials returned through self-check-in machines. Patrons are advised to plan accordingly and utilize other nearby library services during this time. (info)

• Redmond Firefighters Return from Hurricane Deployment: Four Redmond firefighters have returned from their deployment in response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, serving in various roles such as safety officer, logistics specialist, and medical specialist. Their efforts were part of the third largest mobilization of FEMA search and rescue resources, contributing to national resilience and security. Redmond Mayor Angela Birney praised their dedication, highlighting the city's commitment to service and community. The experience provided professional growth opportunities while reinforcing disaster preparedness for local residents. (info)

Events:

• Live Music at WXYZ Lounge on November 20th from 5:30pm - 7:30pm. (info)

• Flatstick Pub Trivia on November 21st from 7pm - 9pm. (info)

• Thanksgiving Dinner at Brown’s Stockyard Exchange on November 28th from 5:30pm - 10pm. (info)

Renton:

News:

• Holiday Celebrations in Renton: Holiday Market, Tree Lighting, and Small Business Saturday: Renton kicks off the holiday season on November 30, 2024, with a full day of festive activities. The Renton Farmers Market’s Holiday Market will run from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Piazza Park, offering local produce, artisan goods, and handcrafted gifts. Small Business Saturday will feature sales and promotions from businesses across the city, encouraging residents to shop locally. The day concludes with the return of the downtown tree lighting at 5 p.m., followed by Santa’s arrival. (info)

• Local Traffic Impacts in Renton: November 18-22, 2024: Several streets in Renton will experience intermittent lane closures due to ongoing construction projects from Monday, November 18 through Friday, November 22. On Northeast Sunset Boulevard, there will be lane closures between Edmonds Ave NE and Kirkland Ave NE, and shifting lane closures between Redmond Pl NE and Union Ave NE for utility installation and frontage improvements, both occurring from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For Williams Avenue South, intermittent lane closures will take place between Cedar River and S 3rd St for construction work, also from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Additionally, Grady Way South will experience eastbound lane closures west of the Grady Way S and Talbot Rd S intersection, and Talbot Road South will have lane closures up to the Grady Way S intersection, both between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Finally, Wells Avenue South will see intermittent lane closures north of the S 2nd St intersection from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (info)

Events:

• Small Business Saturday Ornament Craft Kits - Claim your DIY Kits on November 30th all day. (info)

• Startup 425: Idea to Business Workshop and CoWorking Renton on November 21st from 1pm - 4pm. (info)

• Holiday Bazaar on November 22nd and November 23rd from 11am - 7pm and 9am - 5pm. (info)

• Renton Holiday Farmers Market on November 30th from 12pm - 4pm. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

• Sammamish Traffic Updates: Cone Zone for November 15, 2024: The City of Sammamish is currently inspecting and cleaning stormwater pipes along various roads throughout the city. The work, which began on September 23, is expected to continue until the end of the year. While there will be some traffic disruptions, they are anticipated to be minimal, with occasional single-lane closures. Additionally, Ziply is working to install new fiber optic lines, which will involve trenching in the right of way and public utility easements, mostly in front yards. This may result in some minor traffic impacts. (info)

• Eastlake Ends State Bid with 27-14 Loss to Puyallup: On November 8, 2024, the Eastlake Wolves were eliminated from the state tournament after a tough 27-14 loss to the Puyallup Vikings. The game started with a strong defense from Puyallup, which allowed them to take an early lead. Eastlake responded quickly, with a touchdown pass from quarterback Ryder Barrysmith to Bryson Hodges, tying the game. The Wolves briefly gained a 14-7 lead in the second quarter, but the Vikings came back to tie the game 14-14 at halftime. In the second half, Puyallup dominated, scoring twice with a touchdown and two field goals, while Eastlake's efforts were stifled by turnovers. Despite a late push, Eastlake could not overcome the Vikings' lead, ending their postseason bid. (info)

• King County Secures Additional Rescue Boat for Lake Sammamish: The King County Sheriff's Office has introduced a new 23-foot Safe Boat for its Marine Rescue Dive Unit, designed to patrol Lake Sammamish. This vessel, capable of reaching speeds up to 55 mph, is equipped with advanced technology, including radar, sonar, and FLIR, all funded by a $150,000 federal grant and $40,000 in county funds. The addition of this boat enhances the Sheriff's Office's ability to conduct searches, enforce maritime laws, and perform rescues. The new vessel replaces a nearly 20-year-old boat and increases the fleet to 13 boats, strengthening law enforcement’s water safety efforts in the area. (info)

Events:

• City Council Meeting on November 19th at 6:30pm. (info)

• Singing Thanksgiving on November 21st at 6:30pm. (info)

• Snowing Ice Cream on November 5th at 6:30pm. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

• Woodinville Repertory Theatre Partners with The Restaurant at DeLille Cellars: The Woodinville Repertory Theatre has announced an exciting new partnership with The Restaurant at DeLille Cellars for the upcoming 2024-2025 season. This collaboration aims to enhance the cultural offerings in Woodinville, combining theatrical performances with fine dining experiences. (info)

• Diana and Regan Keo Honored for 32 Years of Coaching: Diana and Regan Keo were honored by the Woodinville Junior Football & Cheer for their 32 years of coaching in the league and other local organizations. Their dedication and contributions have had a lasting impact on the youth sports community in Woodinville. (info)

Events:

• Sip and Centerpiece - Thanksgiving Floral Design on November 23rd at 5:30pm. (info)

• Tinsel & Tires at Tend Home Team Offices on November 25th. (info)

• Ladies Night at The Cottage on November 28th starting at 4pm. (info)

• Floral Design Holiday Advent Wreath Class on November 30th at 1pm. (info)

Volunteering Opportunities:

• Volunteer at Sammamish Landing on November 20th at 10am. (info)

• Volunteer at Lower Commons on November 23rd at 11am. (info)

• Restoration Event at Gallagher Hill Open Space on Nov. 23 at 10am. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• Matts' Rotisserie & Oyster Lounge in Redmond offers a vibrant dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and rotisserie meats. Known for its extensive oyster selection and signature dishes like the rotisserie prime rib, Matts' provides a lively atmosphere suitable for both casual outings and special occasions. The restaurant also features a well-curated wine list and craft cocktails to complement your meal.

• JaK's Grill in Issaquah is a classic steakhouse renowned for its high-quality cuts and cozy ambiance. Popular dishes include the tender filet mignon and the flavorful New York strip, all cooked to perfection. The warm, inviting setting makes it an excellent choice for a romantic dinner or a family celebration. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity among locals.

Vibes:

• It will be mostly rainy this week with some sunshine on Sunday!

Final Thoughts!

Seastside Exclusive Deals:

• 20% off your next private swim lesson booked with Jump In Swim Academy with code JUMPIN20 if you book within the next 30 days. Offering private and semi-private swim lessons year round in Bellevue and Kenmore. Please visit their website for more details!

• 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)