Kirkland Weblog

Seven Hills and Summerfest (say that seven times fast!)

The 7 Hills of Kirkland is a very popular Northwest cycling event and a fundraiser for KITH that happens right here in Kirkland. Hurry and sign up if you haven't already- it's this Monday 5/28, Memorial Day, and registration is limited to 1500 people.  There are three routes to choose from ranging from 38-99 miles long and 3000-7000 feet of elevation depending on what kind of challenge you are up for.  There is also a Kiwanis pancake breakfast at the Peter Kirk Community Center on Sat 5/26 to support KITH/Seven Hills from 7-noon.  And having a  post about bicycle racing seems like an opportune time to tell you about our two newest advertisers: Gregg's Cycles and 1st Rate Insurance  (just voted best insurance agency in Kirkland by the Reporter) - thanks guys, for being Kirkland Blog supporters!

Now back to our regularly scheduled programming..

Mark your calendars for August 10-11 which is the big Summerfest Event in Kirkland.  Don't worry, of course I will remind you again when it's a bit closer, but thought you might want to preview the website to start getting excited about the food, music, and art that's awaiting us this summer.  There are lots of ways to get involved either as a vendor or volunteer.

Last info nuggets of the day for you..

I noticed this week on Kirkland Avenue there are a few new stores with posters announcing new arrivals.  Plume is a Vietnamese restaurant with bahn mi sandwiches, spring rolls and french Vietnamese iced coffee opening in May.  Next door will be Savrika Tea opening this summer. More details when I get em....

Mother's Day Ideas

I know my sister is doing the Kirkland Half Marathon on Sunday 5/13, but I am still deciding if Mother's Day will include sleeping in or not.  Tough choices.  It does sound like a great way to get a day started. Here's the link for all you moms that won't be enjoying breakfast in bed at that time (or those that choose to celebrate in their running shoes).

A few local restaurants are doing something special too.  Check out Purple's Mother's Day menu- they are opening early (10am), featuring sparkling wine and mimosa flights, and of course fun specials for the kids.  Bin on the Lake's new chef, Dylan Giordan, has carefully crafted a Mother’s Day brunch, with unique seasonal offerings for the occasion from 10-2.  Beach Café will offer a  Mother’s Day breakfast buffet in the morning and then brunch buffet until  3 p.m.  Adults are $39 (plus tax and gratuity), and children 5-12 years old are $20. Brix is doing a Mother's Day brunch from 10-2 (call for reservations!) with special scrambles, crepes and delights for the adults and the kids.

I've noticed some good conversation going on about a previous post re: the two new frozen yogurt shops in Juanita Village.  Maybe you should take your mom to both of those on Sunday so you can do a taste test and report back to us with your review.  Cherry de Pon vs. Chilly Wave .  We like them both for different reasons-hopefully there are enough fro-yo eaters in Juanita to keep them both around!

And spoiler alert- LOVED  Happy Hour by Marisa, the new gym in Totem Lake where you can take some killer classes.  Review is coming with all the juicy details- but wanted to share this asap since you will be eating brunch and frozen yogurt with your mom, you should go work it off with her too.  Marisa is offering our readers a "flight of classes" to try out-- for the month of May you can buy 3 classes for $30  (normally $22/ea).  Get in there- you'll be glad you did!

And Happy Day to all of you Mudders out there ;-)

Kirkland Boating/Watercraft Noise- Meeting May 3rd

The City of Kirkland is hosting an informational meeting on Thursday May 3rd  from 6:30-8pm in the Peter Kirk Room at City Hall to hear residents and boaters concerns about boat noise.  About a month ago, the city was looking into passing some amendments to Title 14, which was created in 1960, and does not have provisions for excessive watercraft noise.  There was a large public attendance of passionate boaters and waterfront homeowners at that city council meeting, raising the awareness of how many citizens would like to provide input on the issue.   The amendments were trying to eliminate rafting boats together (do they have any idea how much fuel costs right now?).  So, City Council decided to do some more researching and public feedback, while still hoping to make changes before the summer months arrive.

So, if you care...get there.  A mailer went out this week from the Juanita Bay Neighborhood Association, encouraging people to view this video and stand up for their peace and quiet.  There needs to be a balance- I loved Amy Walen's analogy to "Footloose" at the last meeting-they didn't realize we 'just want to dance.'  As a Kirkland boater and Juanita Bay resident, I hope there is thoughtful measure put into the differences between lake fun and lake nuisance.  I am a responsible boater and still like to laugh loud, listen to music and tie up with other boats.  At our home I consider it a privilege to hear the boat sounds and lake fun in the background of everyday life.  Until they're blasting music at 2am.  Then it's a nuisance. ;)

Go ahead and comment away..

Kirkland Events- Mark Your Calendar!

First things first- grab at least $10 and head down to Simplicity Decor on Weds 4/11 at NOON for the 'cash mob.'  It's a fun and thoughtful way to support local business and this community effort will be the first of its kind in Kirkland.  Find a fun gift for someone and stimulate the local economy while you are at it!

Captain Jack's 8K is Sun 4/15 at 8:30 am at Juanita Beach Park.  Proceeds benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.  Everyone gets a prize!  Free kids dash too.  Register in person at Everyday Athlete.  425-821-4301. 

On Friday 4/20 the band, Wickerman, is going to be rockin' out at the Kirkland Eagles Aerie #2681 at 258 Central Way.  Just $5 at the door is entry/donation to help support "Celebrate Kirkland" which puts on our 4th of July festivities.  Those fireworks aren't cheap.  And notably, the FOE makes some stiff drinks, so you might be seeing fireworks that night anyway.

Canvas Paint & Sip, at 122 Central Way,  is holding a benefit to raise money for the Kirkland Summer Concert Series on Thursday 4/26 7-9:30pm.  For $45 per person,  you will enjoy complimentary appetizers and a wine tasting and will walk out with your own masterpiece and maybe even a door prize (a stay at the Heathman Hotel perhaps??).  Register here or call 425-822-2266.

All out of money to share for this array of good causes? No worries.  Donate your time.  The 7 Hills of Kirkland Bike Event needs lots of volunteers still for 5/28.  Contact Marylue Gutow if you'd like to learn more about what jobs are available (I saw one was to 'chat' with the riders, c'mon, even you can do that!). 425-821-5553.

 

Join us THIS Friday 3/9: A Really Fun Way to do Something Good....

 

<---Sydney at the AG Doll Show 2011

Our daughters would like to invite you  to a Kirkland event to help them raise money for uncompensated care at Seattle Children's Hospital.  We love Simplicity Decor, so having a % of our purchases go towards a great cause is just a bonus!   Please come by and say hello.  

  Riley is already in bed, but here is a note from Sydney ( a budding blogger?):

Hi my name is sydney I am 8 years old and almost 9 and I am doing the  Amarican girl doll fashon show. I think you should come visit me at the store on friday because there are some really cool things at the store like uguly dolls or coffe mugs and there is also some really cool lights with dimonds om them and stuff! we are raising money for seattles childrens hospitil because parents might not be able to aford to have there kid get surgery or get anything that you might need if you get sick so we just raise money for that. So I hope you praticipate in it. So thank you so much.                                                     

Simplicity Décor + American Girl Fashion Show =

donations for Seattle Children’s Hospital.

 

                                                         ________________________________ 

Friday March 9, 2012

4-8pm

 _____________________________

Simplicity Décor * 126 Park Lane * Kirkland

Join us on Friday, March 9th between 4-8pm to get a sneak peak at the arrival of new Simplicity spring treasures. 

Come sip and snack  while

20% of  the proceeds from your purchases will be donated towards uncompensated care.   

American Girl Fashion Show models, Sydney & Riley,  will be at the event to personally thank you for your support.

 Plan to have happy hour,  dinner, or enjoy an art walk  in downtown Kirkland and then  swing by Simplicity to pick out a few gifts or spring  items for your home.  The American Girl Fashion Show, hosted by Star Guild and benefiting Seattle Children’s Hospital will be held on March 17 and 18 at the Bellevue Hilton. For tickets or more information, please visit : www.americangirlfashionshow.org

 

 

Hearts and Shamrocks

First I want to say thank you for all of the comments and emails I have received on my recent PSE post.  I am now able to sleep at night knowing I am not the only person getting these nasty report cards from the power company.  The PSE marketing dept must have some anger mgmt issues.  Apparently they compare you to 100 neighbors with proximity and a home size  similar to yours.  Yet nobody has stepped forward as getting a positive report.  If you are up for it, I heard that PSE provides a free service of coming to your home and checking where you may be able to be more efficient in your energy usage (call the number on your bill).  Might want to wait til they are done getting everyone's power restored from the storms and wind first.  They have some tips on their site too.

Need a last minute Valentine's Idea? I get hungry just thinking about this one.

Northwest Face Spa at the Woodmark 

Be My Chocolate Valentine Couple’s Chocolate Treatment

A one-of-a-kind chocolate lover’s experience. Cocoa inducts the production of endorphins in the body and stimulates the senses, releases tension and produces wellbeing. The treatment includes: chocolate mask, side-by-side hydrating body wraps, relaxing massages using organic chocolate, signature chocolate martinis and executive chocolate pedicure. Package price is $330 per couple. To schedule your appointment, please call 425-803-9000.

Super Cute Valentine Card Idea...xoxoxoxo....

A mini photo shoot at Classic Kids Photography and 25 cards for $135.  Hurry- ends Jan 27th! Call: 425-739-9761

 

Kirkland's First Shamrock 5K Race and Family Fun Run on Saturday 3/17.  Sign up by Feb 1st to get a shirt! Costumes are encouraged so don't be shy for this fun run around scenic downtown Kirkland.  Post race festivities at the Wilde Rover.  Fee is $35.  Volunteers are still needed so if you'd like to register or just sign up to help, click here.

Kirkland Family Raises Funds for FSH Research

Terry Colella has lived in the same Kirkland home since 1980.  But in 2004, everything changed when her son, Brian, was diagnosed with FSH (Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy) and they turned from your typical Kirkland family looking forward to college and grandchildren, into one of fundraisers.  What they discovered was that very few researchers were studying this condition due to lack of funds and its complexity.  This family does not sit and ponder.  Now they head up a non-profit charity, Friends of FSH Research, and raise money for research.

They have raised more than $1.5M from their home-based charity with a volunteer crew.  Today, researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Research Center and the University of WA are leaders in FSH research and are working in collaboration with researchers in the Netherlands and Rochester, NY as a result of their funding and support. 

Please consider joining the Colellas for the 8th annual gala auction event to benefit FSH on January 28th at 5pm/Bellevue Hyatt.  There will be a silent auction, champagne/appetizers, 4 course gourmet dinner with wine and a live auction led by auctioneer David Silverman.  1976 Gold Medalist Wendy Boglioli will be emcee for the evening.  And local band The Offenders will be playing after the auction so don't forget your dancing shoes!  Tickets are $110/per person and parking is free.  100% of the proceeds from the event go towards supporting FSH research.  Purchase online or call 425-827-8954.

520 tolling? I'll drink to that...

Beach Cafe has decided to help ease the pain of the new 520 tolling.  How thoughtful of them! For $5.20 during happy hour (4-6 and 9-close) you can enjoy the following drink specials:

The Good to Go Cosmo: Rejuvenate your commute with freshly muddled Basil and Lime, Veev, Acai Superfruit Spirit, Pama Pomegranate Liqueur and Absolut Mandarin that is shaken and served up in a chilled martini glass

 Bumper to Bumper Special: Choose your favorite draft beer - from Mac & Jack’s to a rotating local IPA, there are eight options to choose from - and pair it with a Fresh Made Pretzel served with Chef Matt’s delicious Signature Cheese Sauce

Today was Steve's first day back at work and he breezed over the 520 into South Lake Union and home to Kirkland at what used to be high traffic hours.   Whether you are doing the 520, the park/ride, the 90, going around the lake or just working from home these days- you can still raise a glass and toast to the bridge from the Kirkland shoreline at Beach Cafe. Just don't drink and drive, of course.

City Council members Bob Sternoff and Penny Sweet aren't scared!
Christi looks like the happiest first time turned lifetime plunger I have ever witnessed. Can you spot her?

Speaking of shorelines, here are a few photos from the Polar Plunge on Sunday.  The water and the air were both in the 50's so it was more like a springtime dip.  Lots of takers this year, my dear fair weathered friends.  You could tell by everyone's smiles as they WALKED out of the water....no screams or running or ghastly faces of shocking electric cold.  It's still a good cleanse and a fun way to start the new year with some good luck (at least that's what I told my friend Christi to convince her to do it and she believed me). :-)

It's a Beautiful Day for a Plunge: Kirkland 2012

<---me & my friend Lenore (she was a first timer in 2011! Way to go!)

This level of crazy doesn't care about the weather.  The tradition of running into a freezing cold body of water to ring in the New Year is something you have to experience for yourself to understand it.  You don't need skills or even brains...just a whole lot of heart and maybe a few friends to help nudge you along.  It's exhilarating!

Bock bock bock-don't be a chicken! New Year's Day - this Sunday, at 1pm masses of plungers will converge on Marina Park in Kirkland. These renegades have no concern that this is no longer an organized event, they are thrill seekers that cannot be stopped.  Some are even in costume and rush all over Seattle/Eastside doing as many plunges as they can squeeze in for the day.  Not even the fruit cakes they ate over the holidays will slow them down from charging into the 47 degree waters.  It's just a quick dip- then off for some soup, coffee and a huddle near the bonfire. 

<--from a few yrs ago, but I love the face on the lady in the red/white bathing suit

I just surveyed my family to see who's participating.  We're 3 for 5: One 39 year old that's more scared to put her bathing suit on than get in the water.  One 8 year old that did it last year and is grinning ear to ear to do it again.  And a 6 year old first timer that I suspect will make it to his knees and run back to his bockbock chicken Daddy and sister (who tried it last yr).  But at least he's man enough to try.  

Get there a little early so you have time to park and situate your towel and warm clothes for when you get out.  Water shoes help too.  Will we see YOU there????? 

Kirkland Author Honors Local Police Officers

Stacey Sanner was looking for a way to pay tribute to the officers that were tragically murdered in late 2009.  She heartfully put together her first book, "Keeping a Blue Light On: A Citizen's Tribute to the Seattle Police Department" which not only honors the fallen, but shows support for all law enforcement.  She says, "these are the stories that don't make the news and they show the daily commitment and sacrifice all officers make to protect their community.  And for which they are rarely thanked."  Stacey was given permission to interview and photograph members of the Seattle Police Dept.  There are personal stories about experiences, events and people along with the rewards and challenges that come along with the job. It is a beautiful tabletop book with amazing photos (also by Stacey) and stories of each officer that, once your pick it up, it's hard to put down.  

The title of the book reflects the community's gesture during that sad time; putting a blue light in the window to show their support. Stacey will be doing a book signing at ParkPlace Books (348 Parkplace Center) on Weds, Nov 30th at 7pm.  She will be talking about the book, how and why she did it, taking questions and signing your copy.  Net proceeds from sales go to the Seattle Police Foundation. You can also buy her book at the Bridle Trails ACE Hardware, a local business that helped lead the sale of blue lights in '09 and donated profits to the fallen officers' families. 

With the 2 year anniversary of the murders, it seems a poignant time to say THANK YOU to our officers for all that you do (with the small exception of giving expensive tickets for expired tags that nobody told us about, but other than that you guys are awesome). Thank you. ~j