Seastside Newsletter #54

January 27th, 2024

We have a jam packed week of news and events for you with some interesting stories! Special shoutout to Issaquah resident, Michelle Dvorak, who survived her scary mountain climbing experience in India.

Please check out some of the other publications we have:

Headline: Your way of getting personalized newsletters for any city in Washington.

Seativities: Your activity/event guide for the Greater Seattle area!

Today’s Seastside includes:

• New art exhibit in Bellevue

• Mercer Island condemns vandalism

• Various traffic updates

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

Bellevue:

News:

• Bellevue's Black History Month Art Exhibit: The City of Bellevue will showcase "Voices Unbounded," an exhibit featuring 21 Black Pacific Northwest artists, from February to March at City Hall. The exhibit, curated by MG2 architect Jay Taylor, will include a range of media, and an opening reception will be held on Feb. 5. (info)

• Hästens to Open First WA Location in Bellevue: Swedish luxury mattress brand Hästens will open its first Washington State store in Bellevue's One88 condominiums in 2025. The store will offer high-end bedding and mattresses made from natural materials, joining other upscale retail offerings in the building. (info)

• Mykal Aubry’s Sculptures at Avenue Bellevue: Mykal Aubry's sculptures "Liquiene Dreams" and "Into The One" are featured at Avenue Bellevue and InterContinental Bellevue. The mirror-polished stainless steel pieces, reflecting Aubry’s journey and architectural influences, symbolize uplifting energy and interconnectedness. (info)

• Bellevue Chef Jun Takai Named James Beard Semifinalist: Chef Jun Takai, known for his Edo-mae style omakase at Takai by Kashiba, has been named a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation’s 2025 Best Chef Award in the Pacific Northwest & Pacific category. Takai's expertise in aging fish and sourcing both local and international ingredients has garnered acclaim since he opened his restaurant in Bellevue after apprenticing under the renowned Shiro Kashiba. (info)

Events:

• Cards & Cocktails at Bellden Cafe on Jan. 31 at 6pm. (info)

• Mirra After Party Experience at Mirra on Jan. 31 from 10pm-2am. (info)

• Saturday Wine Tasting: Exploring the IGT at Story in a Bottle Wines on Feb. 1 from 1-7pm. (info)

Bothell/Kenmore:

News:

• City Manager Rob Karlinsey Announces Departure from Kenmore: After nearly 13 years as Kenmore's City Manager, Rob Karlinsey has accepted a new position as City Manager of Moses Lake, WA. His resignation, effective March 23, 2025, will allow for a smooth transition as he works with the City Council and staff to ensure continuity in ongoing projects, such as the downtown development and pedestrian safety initiatives. Karlinsey’s leadership has been key to several city advancements, and he will begin his new role in Moses Lake in April 2025. (info)

Events:

• Alluvium Cellars Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Jan. 28 from 5-6pm. (info)

• Pop Shops Valentine/Galentine Market on Feb. 8 from 10am-4pm. (info)

• 8th Annual anderson Winter Beer Festival on Feb. 15 from 12-9pm. (info)

• After Hours Networking on Feb. 20 from 5-7pm. (info)

Fall City/Snoqualmie:

News:

• 3.5 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Near North Bend, WA: On January 20, 2025, a 3.5 magnitude earthquake occurred near North Bend, Washington, at 1:35 p.m. The earthquake's epicenter was approximately four miles northeast of Fall City and occurred at a depth of about ten miles. No immediate reports of damage or injuries have been made, as the magnitude was considered too low to cause significant harm. (info)

• SR 18 Lane Reduction Overnight for Shift to New Lanes Near Snoqualmie: Starting at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, SR 18 will be reduced to a single lane for eastbound and westbound traffic south of Snoqualmie, between the Lake Creek and Raging River bridges. The Washington State Department of Transportation will use flaggers and a pilot truck to alternate traffic while crews place barriers and restripe the roadway. (info)

Events:

• Rippin Chix: Women’s Steep Skiing Clinics on Jan. 28 & 29 from 8:30-3:30pm. (info)

• Trivia Night at William Grassie Wine Estates on Jan. 31 from 6:30-8:30pm. (info)

• Sunday Group Trail Run (all levels) on Feb. 2 from 7:30am-12pm. (info)

• Sno Valley Pride - The Sparkle Party on Feb. 22 from 7-10pm. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

• Issaquah Climber Survives Harrowing Ordeal in the Himalayas: Michelle Dvorak, a rock and ice climber from Issaquah, faced disaster on Chaukhama III, a mountain in Northern India, when a rock dislodged and destroyed her equipment. Stranded at 20,600 feet, she and her partner survived by relying on their climbing experience and mental endurance until they were rescued by a French climbing team and the Indian Air Force. Despite this harrowing experience, Michelle remains determined to continue climbing, with future goals including summiting Alaskan peaks and climbing in Patagonia. (info)

• Community Garden Efforts in Issaquah Highlands Benefit Local Food Bank: Brian Smith, a resident of Westridge, noticed a surplus of produce at his local community garden and began donating excess crops to the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank. Since July 2024, over 70 pounds of fresh produce have been collected, with donations including tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, onions, and radishes. The initiative, which helps support neighbors in need, is being expanded to other gardens in the area, offering a productive and fulfilling way to contribute to the community. (info)

Events:

• Village Theatre Presents Dial M for Murder on Jan. 29. (info)

• Issaquah Fiber Arts Evening Meetup on Jan. 29 from 5:30-7:30pm. (info)

• Art Show Opening Gala - Northwest Watercolor Society on Jan. 30 from 3-4:30pm. (info)

• Poker Night in ISsaquah Highlands on Jan. 30 from 6:45-10pm. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• Kirkland City Council Recap (Jan 21, 2025): The Council discussed the 2025 State Legislative Agenda, King County Metro K Line project, and received a presentation from the Kirkland Performance Center. The Mayor proclaimed the Day of Racial Healing and Lunar New Year in Kirkland. The next meeting is on February 4, 2025. (info)

• Jim Lopez Named Kirklander of the Year: Jim Lopez, Deputy City Manager for External Affairs at the City of Kirkland, has been awarded the inaugural "Chamber’s Gesa Kirklander of the Year Award" by the Greater Kirkland Chamber of Commerce and Gesa Credit Union. Lopez oversees the City's economic development, civic engagement, communications, and diversity initiatives, and previously served as Assistant City Manager and Director of Human Resources. (info)

• Traffic Alerts: Multiple traffic disruptions are occurring across Kirkland due to ongoing construction projects. On 100th Avenue Northeast, traffic may be alternated or stopped briefly between Northeast 137th and 145th Streets with a speed limit of 25 mph. 116th Avenue Northeast will have reduced lanes from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for sidewalk and stormwater work near Lake Washington High School. On 124th Avenue Northeast, work continues on the east side, with "Right Turn Only" access for drivers exiting businesses. 132nd Avenue Northeast will have single-lane traffic from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. due to sidewalk construction. Finally, Juanita Drive will be periodically reduced to one lane with flaggers directing traffic between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. (info)

Events:

• Lunar New Year Celebration - Year of the Snake on Feb. 1 from 2-4pm. (info)

• Hearts & Hounds: Valentine’s Celebration with your Furry Friends on Feb. 15 from 11am-1pm. (info)

• Shelby Earl at Kirkland Performance Center on Mar. 14 from 7-9pm. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• Mercer Island Leaders Condemn Vandalism: Following hate-based vandalism at Islander Middle School on January 1, 2025, Mayor Nice and Deputy Mayor Rosenbaum condemned the act and praised the police's swift response. They emphasized Mercer Island’s commitment to standing against antisemitism and fostering unity and inclusion. The community's strong support for its Jewish residents and local schools was also highlighted. (info)

Events:

• Paco Díez in Concert - Sephardic Songs on Jan. 26 at 5pm. (info)

• Let’s Dance Club Dance on Feb. 1 at 7:30pm. (info)

• Mercer Island Lunar New Year Celebration on Feb. 2 from 10am-2pm. (info)

Redmond:

News:

• Witness Report Leads to Arrest of Hit-and-Run Suspect: On Jan. 22 at approximately 11:45 p.m., officers responded to a hit-and-run in the parking lot of an apartment complex on the 4300 block of 156th Ave. NE. A witness reported a vehicle striking two parked cars before fleeing. Using the description provided, officers quickly located the suspect vehicle and conducted a high-risk stop, pinning the vehicle to prevent escape. The driver was taken into custody without incident, while two passengers, including the vehicle’s registered owner, were questioned and released. (info)

• Redmond Fire Department Launches Full-Time Cross-Staffing at Station 17: The Redmond Fire Department has introduced full-time cross-staffing of its aid car and fire engine at Station 17, a significant enhancement to its service model. This initiative underscores Mayor Birney’s and the City Council’s strong commitment to prioritizing the health and safety of the Redmond community. (info)

• Planned Power Outage in Redmond: Puget Sound Energy has scheduled a power outage at 170th Place NE and NE 45th Street on Thursday, Jan. 30, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. The outage is necessary to make improvements to the electric system. For more information, visit pse.com/plannedoutages. (info)

Events:

• Redmond Library Teen Advisory Board on January 28th. (info)

• Flatstick Pub Bing on January 29th at 7pm. (info)

Renton:

News:

• Renton Awarded $157,700 Grant to Transition to Electric Maintenance Equipment: Renton’s Public Works Department received $157,700 from the Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) to replace some gas-powered maintenance equipment with battery-electric alternatives. This transition aligns with the city’s mission to provide a safe and vibrant community while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality for workers and residents, and fostering a healthier work environment. Renton is one of 344 communities nationwide to receive this grant, marking a significant step toward more sustainable city operations. (info)

• 60+ Cars Burglarized in Renton During Overnight Spree: Renton police are investigating an overnight rash of break-ins that targeted over 60 cars across eight locations, including area hotels, Top Golf, Boeing parking lots, and an apartment complex. The incidents occurred on Jan. 24-25, with a crew of three or four suspects reportedly responsible. Stolen items included valuables and firearms, making the suspects potentially armed and dangerous. Police are gathering evidence and urging the public to secure valuables and report any additional incidents at 253-852-2121. (info)

Events:

• Startup and Small Business Coworking on January 31st. (info)

• Winter lights at Piazza Park and downtown, 233 Burnett Ave. S., from 5 – 10 p.m as well as Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, 1201 Lake Washington Blvd. N. from 5 – 9 p.m. Both are through February 28th. (info)

• Moonlight Masquerade Winter Family Dance on February 7 from 6 - 8 pm. (info)

• Bingo Teen Night on February 7th from 6:30pm - 9pm. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

• Sammamish’s Lunar New Year Celebration to Feature K-Pop, Lion Dancing, and Kung Fu: The City of Sammamish will host its annual Lunar New Year celebration on Feb. 1, from 1 to 4 p.m., at Central Washington University’s Sammamish campus. This free, family-friendly event will feature cultural activities, educational booths, and live performances, including a K-pop dance by Victorious Dance Company and lion and dragon dances by Shaolin Kung Fu Chan Academy. Designed to honor and celebrate the city’s diverse Asian communities, the event offers residents a chance to connect and learn about Lunar New Year traditions. (info)

• Ziply Fiber Permits Suspended Following Community Concerns: On January 23, 2025, the City of Sammamish suspended all Ziply Fiber right-of-way (ROW) permits due to community concerns regarding their fiber installation work. While the permits are suspended, Ziply Fiber is only allowed to secure active sites for safety, restoration, and erosion control. The City aims to resolve the issues quickly and encourages residents to report concerns through the MySammamish website or app under “Ziply Impacts & Concerns.” For more information, visit Sammamish Cone Zone. (info)

Events:

• 2-4-6-8 Family Trivia Night on January 28th. (info)

• TechnoHacks Hackathon: Beginner Coding Competition on February 8th. (info)

• Lunar New Year Celebration 2025 on February 1st. (info)

• 2025 City Council Retreat on February 8. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

• Community Grant Application Period Now Open!: The City of Woodinville has allocated $28,000 in grant funding for eligible community organizations hosting activities or events open to the local community in 2025. Priority will be given to events that promote the local economy and benefit the Woodinville community. Applications must be submitted by Sunday, February 23, 2025, at 11:59 PM. Funds will be distributed on a reimbursement basis following the approved activity. (info)

Events:

• Village Wines Live on January 30th at Village Wines. (info)

• Live Music at Alexandria Nicole Cellars featuring Howard Mack on January 31st at 5pm. (info)

• Midwinter Crab Boil at Woodinville Cut Shop on February 2nd. (info)

Volunteering Opportunities:

• Plant Nursery Plotting at Lake Sammamish State Park on Feb. 1 from 9am-12pm. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• DERU Market in Kirkland: Located at 723 9th Ave, DERU Market is a locally-owned family business that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They focus on real, scratch-made food using locally sourced ingredients from trusted farmers and purveyors. The menu features seasonally inspired salads, wood-fired pizzas, and freshly brewed coffee. DERU Market operates daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

• Castilla Restaurant and Tapas Bar in Bellevue: Situated at 504 Bellevue Square, Castilla offers over 40 different tapas, bringing traditional Spanish dishes and design to Bellevue. Their menu includes saffron and seafood-rich paella, Serrano and Bellota Iberico hams, rustic Spanish flatbreads baked in a hearth oven, and Northwest seafood prepared in authentic Spanish styles. The vibrant atmosphere with Spanish-inspired decor makes it a popular spot for casual gatherings and family dining.

Vibes:

• The sunshine will keep up this week with some rain towards the weekend! Enjoy the sun while it lasts!

Final Thoughts!

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)