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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS

FALL 2025 | FREE

Stronger than the Storm: Building Community Resilience in Issaquah Highlands

2550 NE Park Drive Issaquah, WA 98029

POSTAL CUSTOMER

Plus! Meet the Candidates Running for Local Elections

ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

LISTING FEE!*

+2.5% BUYER BROKERAGE

TOTAL 3.5% Commissions. Reserve by October 31st*

OVER TWICE AS MANY HOMES SOLD THAN THE CLOSEST COMPETITION IN ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS!

INCREASING YOUR BOTTOM LINE! SELL FOR YOUR HIGHEST & BEST!

SOLD FOR $1,710,000! seetheproperty.com/484761 3 bedrooms / 4 baths / 2,630 sqft

SOLD FOR $880,000! seetheproperty.com/480312 2 bedrooms / 3 baths / 1,346 sqft

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SOLD FOR $1,095,000! seetheproperty.com/475246 3 bedrooms / 3 baths / 2,059 sqft

PRE-MARKET MAKEOVER & PREPARATION Painting, flooring, carpet, counters, backsplash, light fixtures, landscape design Highest quality, fast & inexpensive vendor database Timely planning & coordination of listing prep services Fast turnaround & flexible timelines Ask me about our professional service agreements! SUPERIOR SERVICES - APPEAL TO MORE BUYERS Pre-inspection provided prior to listing preparation High-end whole house staging (interior & exterior) and/or FREE staging consultation FREE 1 year home warranty provided to buyers, plus sellers during listing period Relocation certified with ALL RELOCATION COMPANIES

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

SOLD FOR $1,075,000! seetheproperty.com/485478 3 bedrooms / 3 baths / 1,840 sqft

SOLD FOR $1,505,000! seetheproperty.com/483471 4 bedrooms / 3 baths / 2,288 sqft

SOLD FOR $1,565,000! seetheproperty.com/481487 4 bedrooms / 3 baths / 2,620 sqft

SOLD ABOVE LIST FOR $1,155,000! seetheproperty.com/482504 3 bedrooms / 3 baths / 1,940 sqft

SOLD ABOVE LIST FOR $1,340,000! seetheproperty.com/472392 3 bedrooms / 3 baths / 1,687 sqft

SOLD FOR $1,175,000! MLS# 2281362 4 bedrooms / 3 baths / 1,446 sqft

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SUPERIOR MARKETING & SHOWCASING YOUR LISTING Top-quality HDR photography, videography, twilight shoots & aerial photography 360 Matterport true virtual tour Smart-flyer-board with QR barcode pointing to your exclusive personal property website Floor plan online JPEG’s with dimensions Target marketing & dynamic copywriting Exclusive personal property website for your listing HIGHEST & BEST RESULTS Thorough contract knowledge & advanced negotiation #1 Broker in Issaquah Highlands 2008 through 2024 Market timing & strategic planning Buyer procurement and highest rate of closed sales

Paid For By Elect Mark Mullet

“

My wife Kelley and I are proud to call Issaquah Highlands our home, and I will always fight to make sure our neighborhood is a great place to live and raise a family. I was proud to be the first resident of the Issaquah Highlands elected to the Issaquah City Council in 2009, and proud to secure funding during my time in the State Senate to turf the fields at Central Park.

FIXING OUR TRAFFIC PROBLEMS We can fix our traffic problems. We simply need the political will to get it done. I’ll increase the urgency on finishing Highway 18 construction to minimize cut through traffic on our Issaquah roads, expedite light rail to Issaquah, and make smart investments to improve the traffic flow on SR 900. We desperately need practical solutions that get Issaquah moving. IMPROVING PUBLIC SAFETY Supporting local businesses in combating shoplifting and continuing safety efforts started by the current mayor.

Mark lives with his wife, Kelley, and their kids in the Issaquah Highlands. Mark owned and operated Zeeks Pizza Issaquah from 2009 to 2019, and owns and still operates Ben & Jerry’s Issaquah.

MARK IS ENDORSED BY: Current Issaquah Mayor Mary Lou Pauly (who praised Mark as someone “qualified to step in and lead on day one”), and former Mayors Fred Butler and Rowan Hinds. Current Governor Bob Ferguson and Lt. Governor Denny Heck, along with former Governor’s Chris Gregoire and Gary Locke. Current Issaquah City Councilmember Chris Reh, and former councilmembers Stacy Goodman and John Traeger. Mayors across our neighboring cities, including Snoqualmie, North Bend, Carnation, Bellevue, Maple Valley, Renton, Kent, Auburn, Everett, Woodinville, and Mercer Island.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 8 Stronger than the Storm 14 Games & Puzzles

Spotlight: 16 Neighborhood Wisteria Park

18 Meet the Candidates

30 Paw-sitively Perfect Neighbors Tales from 34 Trick-or-Treat Highlands Youth

38 Event Calendar

40 Explore Community Groups

43 Highlands Council Happenings Guide 45 Beginner’s to Bird Watching

47 From the City

52 Safety Tips from Issaquah Police 54 Fall Galleries at Blakely Hall 58 Homeowners Association

62 Recipes from Around the Block 64 The Importance of Self-Care 67 Volunteers of the Month 68 HFN Speed Upgrades

71 Growth on the Horizon 72 Business Directory

About the Cover: Issaquah’s Community Resource Officer Alex Helms gives Addie, age 6, a turn behind the wheel of his police cruiser.

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

Treats & Tails is a family favorite during the Halloween season! Join our fourth annual trick-or-treating event at Blakely Hall on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 12–2 p.m.

A NEIGHBORLY

VIEW Editor’s Note

Hello, Autumn! As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, we welcome the season of cozy sweaters, warm drinks and the beginning of holiday cheer.

MADDIE COATS Highlands Council Communications Manager

Fall is the perfect season to reflect on the importance of staying prepared and resilient—both as individuals and as a neighborhood—especially when it comes to emergencies. Whether it’s severe weather, power outages or other unexpected events, having a plan and knowing your resources ensures that we can take care of ourselves, our loved ones and each other.

Turn to pages 8-10 to read about upcoming programming around community resilience in Issaquah Highlands. We encourage you to save the sign on pages 11-12 so that you can alert your neighbors to your well-being in the event of an emergency. Plus, quiz your knowledge on emergency preparation by completing the puzzles on pages 14-15! This season, it’s also crucial to pay attention to local elections. Decisions made at the city, county and school district levels have a direct impact on our daily lives—from how our streets are maintained to how emergency services operate, and how our schools and parks are supported. Get to know our local candidates on pages 18-28. Don’t miss the chance to hear from the two Issaquah Highlands residents running for mayor during our Candidate Forum on Wednesday, Oct. 22. View our event calendar on pages 38-39 to see our jam-packed schedule of programs for the remainder of 2025. Save the date for holiday classics like the Village Market: Holiday Pop-Up, Holiday Tree Lighting, Parents Night Out and more! While big community gatherings bring us together, sometimes it’s the smaller traditions like holiday cookie swaps that add the most warmth and connection among neighbors. We’ve included a few favorite cookie recipes from residents on pages 62-63 to help you get started.

Resident Photographer Wing F. Wong Issaquah Highlands Neighborhood Summit Park About the Photo “Our family on the way to an outdoor movie at Village Green.”

Share your “Neighborly View” with Issaquah Highlands media! Email your high-resolution photograph taken in Issaquah Highlands as well as your first and last name to maddie.c@ihcouncil.org. You can also scan the QR code below to submit photos. Highlands Council may share your photos in the printed Community Connect magazine or on official Issaquah Highlands digital media channels.

Keep reading for updates from the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA), Highlands Fiber Network (HFN), City of Issaquah and more local resources. Cheers to a happy and healthy fall season! ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

Community Management Directory More information available at issaquahhighlands.com

Issaquah Highlands Community Association

Our Dedicated Homeowners Association Executive Director: Sarah Hoey 2520 NE Park Drive, Suite B Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 425-427-9257 425-223-8887 (after hours only) asktheihca@ihcommunity.org

Highlands Fiber Network

Community-Owned Fiber to the Home General Manager: Jeremy Fallt 2550 NE Park Drive (inside Blakely Hall) Customer Service: 425-427-0999 support@hfnservices.com General Inquiries: 425-394-4184 jfallt@hfn.org highlandsfibernetwork.com

Highlands Council

A Community-Building Organization Executive Director: Lindsey Pinkston 2550 NE Park Drive (inside Blakely Hall) Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 425-507-1107 info@ihcouncil.org

Blakely Hall

Community Space, Art Gallery & Rental Facility 2550 NE Park Drive info@blakelyhall.com blakelyhall.com

Do you have questions or concerns? Visit issaquahhighlands.com/contact-us or contact the appropriate community organization directly. Get weekly Issaquah Highlands updates to your inbox! Subscribe at issaquahhighlands.com/e-news. Get social with us!   

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS

By Community, For Community Community Connect magazine is published quarterly and produced mostly by Issaquah Highlands residents, including volunteer contributors, edited and published by Highlands Council. Community Connect helps Highlands Council fulfill its mission to develop a vibrant and caring community committed to service, diversity, stewardship and well-being.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTORS Interested in volunteering your skills or pitching a story? Contact Maddie Coats, Highlands Council communications manager, at maddie.c@ihcouncil.org.

ADVERTISE WITH US

We offer print ad sizes in every price range; digital advertising opportunities are also available. Contact Highlands Council at info@ihcouncil.org.

SUBMIT A FREE ANNOUNCEMENT

For Issaquah Highlands residents only. See submission form and guidelines at issaquahhighlands.com/announcements.

MORE INFORMATION

Find additional news and updates at issaquahhighlands.com/news.

Opinions expressed by editorial or paid content do not necessarily reflect the views of Highlands Council. Highlands Council may refuse content that does not meet quality standards or reflect the organization’s mission. Photo by Suzanne Hobbs

WEDDINGS RECEPTIONS BANQUETS PARTIES EVENTS MEETINGS WORKSHOPS SEMINARS

RECEIVE NEWS AND EVENT INFO EVERY THURSDAY!

issaquahhighlands.com/e-news

Download the Block Party Toolkit

BLAKELYHALL .COM

Your Guide to Hosting a Neighborhood Block Party

COMMUNITY CONNECT | WINTER 2025

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ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

STRONGER Storm than the

Building Community Resilience Through Preparedness

LINDSEY PINKSTON Highlands Council Executive Director & Wisteria Park resident

While it may feel uncomfortable to think or talk about emergencies, the reality is that they happen—and often without warning. From natural disasters and accidents to acts of terrorism, emergencies can come in many forms.

Ignoring this truth doesn’t make it go away. In fact, it can increase the likelihood of harm and the severity of the consequences that follow. The good news? We can take meaningful steps—individually and as a community—to reduce the damage and discomfort that disasters bring, whether large or small. According to FEMA’s National Risk Index, King County faces an exceptionally high risk of natural hazards—99.7%. Our greatest vulnerabilities stem from earthquakes, landslides and volcanic activity. What does this mean for us? It means

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), serve as a Resilience Hub volunteer, or simply begin preparing at home. Whatever path you choose, I encourage you to take small steps each month to build your readiness for whatever may come.

Resident volunteers, CERT members and city staff have joined forces to keep Issaquah Highlands prepared for emergencies.

Even a basic power outage can be disruptive and uncomfortable. With a little preparation—like knowing how to stay connected to the internet, manually open your garage door, and having supplies for comfort and entertainment—you can maintain a sense of normalcy (right down to your daily cup of coffee). In the face of larger disasters, like a major earthquake, those same preparations could be life-saving. Let’s build a culture of readiness—because community resilience starts with each of us.

we must continue working together to strengthen our community’s resilience. FEMA defines community resilience as “the ability of a community to prepare for anticipated natural hazards, adapt to changing conditions, and withstand and recover rapidly from disruptions.” There are many ways to get involved. You might attend our Are You Ready? Workshop Series, join Issaquah’s

Prepared Together: Progress at the Blakely Hall Resilience Hub The Blakely Hall Resilience Hub Task Force—comprised of residents, CERT volunteers, Highlands Council staff and city employees—is actively developing an operating plan to guide emergency services at Blakely Hall. In addition to finalizing the plan, we’re currently focused on three key priorities: 1. E stablishing resilient power. We are working to have generator power available during power outages, so Blakely Hall can remain a reliable resource when it’s needed most. 2. B uilding and training a volunteer team. In an emergency, staff may not always be available, so we’re assembling a team of trained volunteers ready to assist the community at Blakely Hall. Interested in joining? Reach out to me at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org. 3. S tocking emergency supplies. We are gradually building a supply of essential items to meet the community’s most urgent needs during a crisis. As this initiative progresses, we’ll continue to share updates on the services you can expect from the Blakely Hall Resilience Hub in an emergency. Stay tuned—and thank you for being part of a more prepared and connected community!

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

Preparedness Resources at Your Fingertips BY MADDIE COATS Highlands Council Communications Manager Issaquah Highlands offers incredible access to nature and city life, but living near the mountains and a big city means preparing for a wide range of emergencies. Our region faces a wide range of potential emergencies, from everyday disruptions to large-scale disasters. While some events may only last a few hours, others can have longer-lasting impacts on our homes, health, and daily routines. Some emergencies are seasonal and familiar, such as summer heat waves, winter freezes, smoke-filled skies and power outages. These situations can disrupt daily life and, if prolonged, pose real health and safety risks. Knowing what to expect and how to respond can make all the difference in staying comfortable and safe during these events.

ARE YOU

READY? WILDFIRES F O R A N E M E R G E N C Y

FREE PREPARATION WORKSHOPS FIRST THURSDAYS, 6:30 PM BLAKELY HALL, 2550 NE PARK DRIVE

Beyond these short-term challenges, our community also faces the possibility of more serious disasters such as earthquakes, wildfires, landslides or potentially acts of violence. While these incidents are less frequent, they have the potential to cause widespread damage and require neighbors to rely on one another.

Considering the various risks of short- and long-term emergencies, Blakely Hall is preparing to serve as a safe and supportive hub for residents. When activated as a Resilience Hub, the community center plans to offer tools and resources, refrigeration for medications and breast milk, charging stations and WiFi, community engagement, basic first aid, emotional support and more. While we’re taking steps to use Blakely Hall as a resource for emergencies, Highlands Council is launching a monthly Are You Ready? Workshop Series. The series will cover topics related to household emergency planning, basic disaster medical, emergency kits, fire safety and much more. Join us at Blakely Hall on the first Thursday of every month from 6:30-8 p.m.

Explore Our Emergency How-To Guide Learning never stops, and that includes staying prepared for emergencies. It’s never too late to educate yourself on how to keep your family and community safe, and in today’s world, the resources you need are right at your fingertips. To make it easy, we’ve launched a new online resource featuring a comprehensive Emergency How-To Guide. Explore the webpage to find step-by-step instructions for essential skills like filtering water, using a generator safely, signing up for emergency alerts, using your WiFi in an outage and more. The webpage also includes detailed information about local hazards, evacuation routes, and a wealth of other resources to help you feel confident and ready no matter what comes our way. Visit our website at issaquahhighlands.com/ community-preparedness.

2025

OCT

BASICS OF EMERGENCY PREP

NOV

RESILIENT POWER

DEC

HOUSEHOLD EMERGENCY PLAN

Explore potential disasters and learn how to prepare for them.

Learn about options to keep the lights on when the power goes out.

Build an emergency plan together with your family.

2026

BASIC DISASTER MEDICAL

JAN

Gain hands-on skills to treat injuries in an emergency.

FEB

Pack your emergency kit with supplies and learn how to use each item.

EMERGENCY KIT & SIP

MAR

COMMUNICATING IN A DISASTER

APR

DISASTER PSYCHOLOGY

MAY

FIRE SAFETY

JUN

PREPAREDNESS FOR PETS

Learn how to stay connected when it matters most.

Discover simple tools to stay calm and help others in a crisis.

Master the basics of fire safety to protect your home.

Prepare your pets for disasters and unexpected events.

ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM/EVENTS

ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

STRONGER than the Storm

Invest in Resilience:

Join an Upcoming CERT Program BY MADDIE COATS Highlands Council Communications Manager

The Issaquah Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) plays a vital role before, during and after disasters by stepping in where help is needed most. Volunteers are trained to check on neighbors, share important information, support emergency operations, and assist with tasks such as traffic and crowd management. Through CERT, everyday community members gain the skills to support their families, coworkers and neighborhoods in times of crisis. The CERT Basic Training program follows FEMA’s national curriculum, giving participants hands-on experience with essential disaster-response skills. This includes what to do when professional emergency services are delayed or unavailable. With practice and teamwork, CERT members are prepared to protect themselves while helping the greatest number of people during an emergency. The course is offered for free multiple times each year in Issaquah. Every spring and fall, the class is held at Issaquah Public Works. This January, we’re excited to offer CERT Basics at Blakely Hall. Information on all courses is available at issaquahcert.org.

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The final drill will take place on Sunday, Feb. 1. Attendance at all sessions is required to graduate. Our free CERT Basic Training requires an application to register, with priority given to Issaquah residents. Youth ages 13–17 may participate with written parental consent, while children 11–12 may attend if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Apply here: issaquahhighlands.com/ winter-CERT-course-2026

“I pursued CERT training to care for myself, family, neighbors and community in emergency situations. The training provided increased hazard awareness, basic emergency responses, and the confidence to calmly respond when necessary. My eight-week CERT training was completed in April 2025 and included classroom and real-world exercises. The instructor’s experience and expertise provided an entertaining and informative learning environment. In summary, I am convinced the knowledge gained from CERT training will enable a calm and effective response to a variety of emergency situations.” —Samuel T., Ashland Park

The January training will take place over two weekends, with classes held at Blakely Hall on Jan. 23, 24 and 31 from CERT volunteers practiced radio communications, cribbing, fire safety, medical, triage and more during the Issaquah Highlands spring 2025 course.

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

“The CERT course is a commitment—but you gain so much more. The course requires your participation and your time. But it’s manageable, and the staff REALLY support you. You learn that you are an important part of something bigger. You’re helping your neighbors, your community, yourself.” —Sarah L., Black Nugget Park

“CERT training gave me the tools and confidence to respond if an emergency happens here in Issaquah. What surprised me most was the sense of community I found among people who all want to help. Since graduating, CERT has led me to other valuable training such as CPR/AED, bleeding control and radio communication, as well as new opportunities to volunteer locally. It’s been an experience that continues to grow.” —Jason C., West Highlands Park

HELP

PLE H ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

“As Council President and acting Issaquah Mayor pro tem, I’ve been a tireless champion for residents.” Public Safety Improved neighborhood safety through investments in police, fire, crisis response, and emergency preparedness New Connections Advocated for local lastmile bus service + new I-90 crossing to improve traffic flow Climate & Environment Implemented our Climate Action Plan + fought to protect our forested hillsides from development Local Impact Championed 2x investments in safe, walkable neighborhoods across Issaquah

Learn more at VoteLindseyWalsh.com

ONLY Democratic Party Endorsed Candidate State Senator Victoria Hunt

State Representative Zach Hall

King County Councilmember Sarah Perry

15+ Mayors and Councilmembers from Sammamish, Kirkland, Redmond, Maple Valley, Renton, Bothell, and more

Paid for by Lindsey Walsh for Mayor | 1567 Highlands Dr. NE Ste 110-193, IssaquahISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM WA 98029

Games & Puzzles CRISIS CROSSWORD

1 2

Test your readiness! Use the clues to fill in the crossword with words related to emergency preparedness.

7 8

ACROSS 3. Program that trains community members (abv.) 7. Practice version of a real disaster. 8. Water shortage condition. 9. Used to purify drinking water. 14. Portable power source for phones or radios. 17. You should review your emergency plan every _______. 19. International drill to prepare you for earthquakes. The Great _______. 20. Emergency contact method if cell towers are down. 22. Know your local _______ routes. 24. These light up the dark. 26. Blakely Hall is designated as this in an emergency (2 words). 28. Used to power flashlights, portable radios, etc. 29. Dangerously high temperatures over several days. 30. Keep this under your bed in case of nighttime emergency.

DOWN

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

16 17 18

20 21 22

1. Prepare by taking a _______ aid class. 2. Common summer hazard in forests. 4. Local _______ groups help with 28 community readiness. 5. A common weather event that can knock over trees, cause power outages. 30 6. Used to cover wounds. 10. This natural hazard tends to be destructive in steep mountainous areas. 11. This is often stocked with first aid, flashlights, and water (2 words). 12. You should _______ your emergency plan yearly. 13. County’s emergency alert system (3 words). 15. Keep one gallon of this on hand per person per day. 16. Emergency caused by heavy rain. 18. Some flashlights and radios are _______ powered. 21. This can help you breathe during smoke or dust. 23. Volcanoes can release this. 25. Way to signal for help or alert others. 27. Useful to have in an emergency if credit cards won’t work.

SCRAMBLED SIGNALS Once you finish the crossword, unscramble two words using the white gold and white boxes. HINT: Neighbors working together.

Answers on Page 70 WORD SEARCH & RESCUE Prepare for the unexpected by finding all the hidden words in the grid. Words may be hidden up, down, backward or diagonally. FLASHLIGHT FOOD GLOVES HAZARD KIT

ALERT BATTERIES BLANKET EARTHQUAKE FIRE

PACK YOUR GO BAG Draw a line from each emergency item on the right to its correct use or purpose on the left. FLASHLIGHT

Signal for help

MAP PLAN POWER RADIO RESCUE

SHELTER STORM SUPPLIES WATER WHISTLE

Purchase supplies if systems are down Show identification, access info

WHISTLE FIRST AID KIT WATER BOTTLES

Treat injuries Protect hands, handle debris safely

BATTERIES EMERGENCY BLANKET

See in the dark Power radios, flashlights, etc.

DUCT TAPE

Stay warm in cold conditions

RADIO (NOAA)

Quick repairs or sealing windows

DUST MASK

Get weather/emergency updates

CANNED FOOD

Protect lungs from smoke/dust

MULTI-TOOL

Provide non-perishable nutrition

PHONE CHARGER

Stay hydrated

Perform small tasks, repairs

Keep phone powered

CASH GLOVES (LATEX OR WORK) ID/DOCUMENTS

EVACUATION ROUTE Help your neighbor find their family!

GRIDLOCK EMERGENCY Fill in the grids so that every row, column and 3×3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 — with no repeats. 2

6 4

9 7

1 5

9 1

9 8

3 8

2 5

7 8

8 6

4 8 ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

• NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT •

Wisteria Park:

A Neighborhood Stitched Together by Simple, Everyday Moments cans. Wisteria Park has always been where neighborhood and nature meet, and sometimes a little too close for comfort.

TRACIE JONES Wisteria Park Resident We moved into Wisteria Park in the winter of 2006, right in the middle of the big ice storm. Issaquah Highlands went dark for days, and I was eight months pregnant. It wasn’t exactly the peaceful move-in we’d imagined. We bundled up, lit candles and learned quickly that when you don’t have power, your neighbors really check up on you. Looking back, that storm set the tone: life here has always been about leaning on each other and finding warmth in unexpected places. Our kids grew up in Wisteria Park, and the “blue park” became their second home. It’s where friendships formed over racing around the loop, and scraped knees were forgotten in minutes. Parents stood on the sidelines with their “coffee,” sharing stories and day-to-day minutia, offering snacks and occasionally refereeing. The park wasn’t just a playground, it was the neighborhood’s meeting ground, our unofficial town semi-circle. Seasons came and went, but each brought its own unique beauty. Spring brought wisteria blossoms to brighten the sidewalks; summer meant evening strolls when you’d wave five times before making it to the corner; fall painted the trees in a fiery color; and winter hushed everything under a blanket of snow. Wildlife was part of the backdrop: deer grazing like they owned the yard, coyotes calling at night, and occasionally, a bear reminding us to double-check the garbage

And then, there were the traditions. The Fourth of July in our neighborhood was always a highlight, with kids riding bikes adorned in red, white and blue streamers as neighbors gathered in lawn chairs to celebrate together. Halloween was its own kind of magic. Wisteria Park became a moving parade of costumes, with porches glowing and candy bowls overflowing. Parents gathered in driveways, sipping “coffee” from travel mugs and catching up as kids darted from house to house. Those nights brought us together in ways only shared laughter and simple joy can. What makes Wisteria Park different isn’t just the tucked-away quiet or the greenbelt views…it’s the people. Over the years, we’ve seen neighbors deliver meals to families in tough times, shovel driveways “just because,” and check in with a knock on the door. Some friendships started with a wave; others started with a borrowed ladder that never quite made its way back. Generosity has always been the undercurrent, showing up in big ways and small.

parties and science projects sprawled across the kitchen table. It’s bittersweet, but it’s also a gift. We get to look back at the years here and forward to whatever comes next. I don’t know if our children will someday raise their families in a community like this, but I do know Wisteria Park has left its mark on them—and on us. It’s been about kindness, conversation and the beauty of the everyday. If I had to sum it up: Wisteria Park is connection. It’s neighbors who become lifelong friends, families who become memories, and seasons that pass but always return. It’s what holds us together: the generosity, the humor, the little things that add up to everything. It’s moments like these that define life here and remind us why, even after all these years, we’re grateful to call it home.

Connection here comes easy. It might be a quick online post about a missing cat, stopping mid-walk to chat with a neighbor, or simply the comfort of knowing the person next door will notice if your porch light hasn’t been on for a while. It’s ordinary, everyday stuff, but it matters more than you think. Now, nearly two decades later, our kids have grown and moved on. We’ve circled back to where we started—just the two of us—empty nesters in the same home that once held midnight feedings, birthday

Wisteria Park serves as a central gathering place for neighbors to come together for holidays like Easter and the Fourth of July, as well as casual weekend mornings over coffee and pastries. Photos by Jennifer Choi.

ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

Meet

THE

Candidates

Issaquah Mayor LINDSEY WALSH

1. Introduce yourself. Lindsey: Hello neighbors, I’m Lindsey Walsh, a small business owner and mom of 2 teenagers who has lived in the Highlands for 16 years. It has been my honor to serve you on the Issaquah City Council since 2019, including the last 3 years as the Council President and acting Mayor pro tem. Mark: Our family moved to the Issaquah Highlands in 2006. Our kids attended both Lakeside Montessori School and Grand Ridge Elementary. In 2009, I opened Zeeks Pizza Issaquah, which I operated until 2019. In 2010, I opened Ben & Jerry’s, which is where you will often find our children scooping ice cream. 2. What inspired you to run for mayor, and what’s your top priority if elected? Lindsey: My deep commitment to Issaquah as a longtime resident, parent, and small business owner is what inspires me to serve as Mayor. I have no ambitions for higher public office, preferring to focus solely on making Issaquah a better place to live—protecting our beautiful hillsides, ensuring our small businesses thrive, and promoting safe, walkable neighborhoods. My top priority is public safety—ensuring residents feel safe around town and we are well prepared for emergencies. Mark: My dad became the mayor of Tukwila in 1999, the town where I was born and raised. This was my inspiration to devote more of my life to public service when I moved to the Issaquah Highlands in 2006. My top priority as mayor will be making smart investments and working with our regional partners to reduce traffic congestion. 3. What leadership qualities do you bring that make you the right choice for mayor? Lindsey: My experience as acting Mayor makes me ready on day one to get to work for you. For the past 6 years I’ve been singularly focused on the needs of Issaquah residents. While others may talk about state budgets, I’ve delivered real results right here in Issaquah to improve your quality of life—safer neighborhoods, increased street and sidewalk maintenance, and local transit options—and I will continue to put you first as Mayor. Mark: I own and operate five Ben & Jerry’s scoop shops, Alki Coffee Co., and Zeeks Pizza Sammamish. I have experience hiring leaders for each location and helping guide them into providing excellent customer service. This is my hope at the City of Issaquah, to bring a customer service mentality to all departments. There is no reason for any Issaquah resident to be afraid of our permit department if we create the right customer service mentality.

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

MARK MULLET

4. Issaquah Highlands has a unique mix of residential, retail, parks and open spaces. How would you balance preserving our community character with the city’s need for growth? Lindsey: I’ve fought hard to ensure the Highlands has a balance of work and play to support our housing, especially with upcoming development in the West Highlands and Lakeside. I’m committed to protecting our open spaces and parks while encouraging development on the valley floor as is intended by our Central Issaquah Plan. This is the future of walkable, transit supported neighborhoods in Issaquah. Mark: During my time on the IHCA Board of Directors and my time on the Issaquah City Council, I was proud to help bring long needed retail shops to the Issaquah Highlands. The Highlands has already taken on its share of housing; it is time to execute on the Central Issaquah plan to bring new housing to the valley floor. I strongly oppose letting Bellevue College sell their land to a housing developer. 5. As mayor, how would you stay connected with Issaquah Highlands residents and ensure our neighborhood’s priorities are reflected in city decisions? Lindsey: My commitment is simple: listen first, lead with integrity, and put Issaquah residents at the heart of every decision. I will collaborate closely with community leaders and local groups to ensure that neighborhood priorities drive policies to reflect what matters most to the Highlands. As Mayor, I will prioritize regular communication through neighborhood coffees, weekly email newsletters, and sharing important information on social media to ensure you remain well informed about what’s happening in your city. Mark: I was proud during my time in the State Senate to stay closely connected to the needs of the Issaquah Highlands. I was able to secure state funding to provide turf fields at Central Park as it was obvious the grass fields did not provide adequate year-round use. As Mayor I will make sure that the Issaquah Highlands is not shortchanged just because we have a HOA that does landscaping. 6. What steps would you take to make Issaquah more resilient to emergencies—whether that’s crime prevention, disaster readiness, wildfire protection, etc.? Lindsey: I care deeply about resiliency as a member of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). The Bomb Cyclone showed the importance of preparedness. As Mayor I commit to adding Resilience Hubs, including at Blakely Hall. As a board member for Eastside Fire & Rescue, I’ve advocated for wildfire readiness programs to keep us safe. As Council President I helped hire our police chief and as Mayor I will ensure there is funding to increase neighborhood patrols.

Mark: In meeting with Issaquah police officers I have become convinced there is excellent technology that can be deployed to read license plates and alert police when vehicles associated with property theft enter our neighborhood (Flock Safety systems). We also need to educate Highlands residents about evacuation routes by the preschool roundabout that can be used in an emergency. 7. What is your favorite thing about Issaquah Highlands? Lindsey: The community! I love living in a place designed to get people out of their homes and engaging with their neighbors. Whether it’s taking a morning walk to Caffe Ladro, doing a weekend hike through our wonderful trail system, joining one of the many community groups, or attending the great events hosted by the Highlands Council—it’s all there to bring us together as a community.

Mark: Our family moved to the Highlands for the combination of access to the outdoors, retail, and good public schools. I loved the morning routine of walking our dogs on the Grand Ridge Trail, and then walking our kids from Zeeks to Grand Ridge for school in the morning. I remain amazed at how many customers at Ben & Jerry’s get there on foot. We love the Highlands community. Candidate statements not edited by Highlands Council. For full answers from each candidate, visit issaquahhighlands.com/ general-election-candidates-2025.

2025 Elections

CANDIDATE FORUM ISSAQUAH MAYOR WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22

BLAKELY HALL

Meet the two candidates running for Issaquah Mayor! Forums are moderator-led and driven by community-generated questions. Submit your questions at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

Lindsey Walsh

DOORS OPEN AT 6:30 P.M. FORUM BEGINS AT 7 P.M.

Mark Mullet ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

Meet

THE

Candidates Issaquah City Council Position 1

CHRIS REICHLEY

1. Introduce yourself. Chris: My name is Chris Reichley. Born and raised in Southern California, I’ve proudly called Issaquah home for the past 11 years. My wife, Amy, and I have been happily married for 23 years and are raising two wonderful daughters, Megan (21) and Madison (17), along with our beloved cats, Lola and Cheeto. Growing up in a small business family instilled in me a strong work ethic, integrity, and a deep commitment to community. Kelly: I’m Kelly Jiang, your newest City Councilmember here in Issaquah. Since moving to Issaquah 5 years ago, I’ve been engaged in a wide variety of community groups, including as President of the Issaquah Alps Trails Club (IATC), member of the Mayor’s Strategic Plan Taskforce in 2024, and Chair of the Leafline Trails Coalition. I was appointed to fill a vacancy on the City Council in February 2025, and I look forward to continuing to serve you. 2. What inspired you to run for Issaquah City Council, and what’s your top priority if elected? Chris: I’m running for City Council to help protect what makes Issaquah special while taking a proactive approach to the challenges ahead. After 11 years here, raising a family and volunteering in the community, I want to give back in a bigger way. My top priority is preserving our quality of life by focusing on public safety, smart infrastructure, and managing growth in a way that keeps Issaquah safe, livable, and connected. Kelly: Through my work with IATC, I’ve worked with and learned from the leaders who have shaped Issaquah to be what it is today, with vast open spaces like Grand Ridge Park conserved next to higher-density neighborhoods like the Issaquah Highlands. My top priority as your

OPEN MIC NIGHT

city councilmember would be to continue Issaquah’s leadership in balancing development with environmental conservation, ensuring our growth maintains our beloved open spaces while providing affordable housing for our community. 3. What leadership qualities do you bring that make you the right choice for this position? Chris: With over 20 years of leadership, management, and financial experience, I bring a steady and results-driven approach to serving Issaquah. I’ve served as Chair of the City’s Economic Vitality Commission for the past five years, serve on the Kiwanis Club board, and am Treasurer and Trustee for the Issaquah Highlands Council and Vice Chair of the City’s Strategic Plan Task Force. I am committed to listening carefully, collaborating openly, and working diligently to deliver thoughtful solutions that reflect our community’s values. Kelly: As your city councilmember, I bring a listening ear, strong work ethic, and creative problem-solving ability. I hear your concerns about affordability, traffic, and public safety. I’m committed to finding real solutions for Front Street and SR 900, and to ensuring our community remains a safe place to raise a family. And, I’ll ask tough questions to ensure that we can be proud of what we’ve done in 20, 50, and 100 years. 4. In your view, what’s the most important step the city should take to build resilience against emergencies and keep our community safe? Chris: The most important step Issaquah can take to build resilience is to proactively strengthen our infrastructure and emergency preparedness. This means investing in our first responders, upgrading communication systems, and empowering residents with the knowledge to stay prepared. I am proud to be endorsed by Local IAFF

Immigration Services for Highlands Families from Around the World NOV. 7 7-8:30 PM BLAKELY HALL

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KELLY JIANG

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025 www.issaquahhighlands.com/openmic

- Citizenship & Naturalization - Reentry Permits - Sponsorship of Relatives - Permanent Residence & Employment-Based Green Card Applications - Temporary Nonimmigrant Employment Visas - Small Business Immigration Solutions

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1762, the International Association of Fire Fighters, which reflects my deep commitment to supporting those who protect our community. By working together, city services and residents can create a safer, stronger Issaquah ready for whatever comes. Kelly: The city must develop resilience strategies for all emergencies, including wildfires, extreme heat, storms, and floods. Wildfire: Issaquah should work with land managers, like WA DNR, to improve forest health and reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires. Extreme heat / storms: Issaquah should invest in community resilience centers and ensure community members know how to access them. Flood resilience: Issaquah and King County should continue purchasing land to restore floodplains, which reduces flooding downstream in Issaquah. 5. How will you keep residents engaged in city decisions and ensure their voices are heard? Chris: Staying connected to city decisions and making sure every resident’s voice is heard isn’t just a promise—it’s how I lead. I live and work in Issaquah as the Community Branch Manager at Harborstone Credit Union, and through my volunteer work on local boards and commissions, I’ve become deeply connected with our local small businesses, city staff, local city leaders, community leaders, and everyday residents. I listen to understand, take a truly collaborative approach, and make it a priority to show up for my community.

about your concerns. I’ll continue to publish a blog at kellyjiang.com that explains city council happenings in digestible, accessible terms. I’ve knocked over 1,000 doors throughout my campaign, and spoken to hundreds of you about your priorities for Issaquah. Your input is invaluable as I make decisions that shape the future of our city. 6. What was the first thing that made you fall in love with Issaquah? Chris: The first thing that made me fall in love with Issaquah was its genuine small-town feel, a place where community connection and a welcoming spirit created a true sense of belonging. I still remember the first time we visited: a band was playing at the Shell Station, community members were walking around with smiles, and the restaurants were vibrant and full of life. I am committed to advocating for fostering this unique character and quality of life. Kelly: The wonderful trail network of the Issaquah Alps made me fall in love in Issaquah. After moving back to the area in 2019, the Issaquah trails are where I found my community. I started the Issaquah Alps Trail Running Club post-pandemic in 2021, which has grown to dozens of members that run and hike together every week, and we just celebrated our 200th run / potluck in August! Candidate statements not edited by Highlands Council. For full answers from each candidate, visit issaquahhighlands.com/ general-election-candidates-2025.

Kelly: On Council, I plan to work with neighborhood organizations, like Highlands Council, to conduct listening sessions and learn more

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Meet

THE

Candidates Issaquah City Council Position 5

DIOGO MAGELHAES

1. Introduce yourself. Diogo: From Macau to Portugal to the United States, my journey as a first-generation immigrant has shaped my deep belief that America’s greatest strength lies in its diversity and shared purpose. With over 20 years’ experience in community engagement, legal education, and corporate and nonprofit leadership, I bring a global perspective and a commitment to building bridges across cultures—guided by compassion and sustainability as the core values of our community. Russell: I am a 30-year resident, a father of two teenagers, and a dedicated advocate for Issaquah. I believe making Issaquah a “Special Place Where People Care” is a worthy civic goal. Therefore, you might see me leading a committee meeting, MCing the Salmon Days Parade, or singing in the community choir. It has been an honor to serve on the Issaquah City Council, and it would be my privilege to continue to serve you. 2. What inspired you to run for Issaquah City Council, and what’s your top priority if elected? Diogo: I believe local government offers our best chance to foster respectful politics and inclusive governance. As neighbors equally invested in our community’s success, we can move beyond partisan divides to focus on what matters most: our families, our homes, and our shared future. My top priority is ensuring Issaquah grows sustainably and compassionately, creating a community where every resident feels supported, valued, and engaged. Russell: My initial decision to run for City Council was driven by a desire to ensure that local government operated efficiently and delivered essential services effectively. Through regional collaboration on parks, police, drinking water, and fire services, we have managed to keep costs down while maintaining a high-quality level of service. If re-elected, my top priority will be to continue advancing policies that keep Issaquah affordable and safe for all that choose to live here. 3. What leadership qualities do you bring that make you the right choice for this position? Diogo: While my background includes launching a nonprofit in corporate governance, working for a Fortune 5 subsidiary, and teaching law for over a decade in Europe and the U.S., I believe leadership is about more than credentials. What I bring are the qualities that matter most: cultural elasticity, deep empathy and compassion, a willingness to listen and adapt, and a genuine commitment to building alliances so that we can grow and thrive together as a community.

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

RUSSELL JOE

Russell: I believe in leading by listening. I approach each conversation with a foundational understanding but prioritize hearing the perspectives and concerns of others. This enables me to lead with authenticity, thoughtfully synthesize information, and adapt my views when warranted by new insights. While consensus is not always possible, I am committed to making my reasoning transparent, so that residents not only understand my position, but also the rationale behind my decisions. 4. In your view, what’s the most important step the city should take to build resilience against emergencies and keep our community safe? Diogo: The most important step is strengthening our shared sense of community. Emergencies—whether natural, or rooted in broader challenges like gun violence, mental health, or economic inequality—are best faced together. Resilience is built when neighbors see themselves as an extended family, supporting and protecting one another. By fostering stronger neighborhood connections and investing in inclusive safety measures and training, Issaquah can ensure every resident feels prepared, supported, and secure when challenges inevitably arise. Russell: Investing in emergency energy infrastructure—such as the development of a microgrid—is a crucial step toward resilience. The bomb cyclone served as a reminder that weather-related challenges will continue to impact our community. Ensuring that resilience centers and other critical locations have reliable power, allows residents to remain safe, connected, and supported during emergencies. I fully support the City’s ongoing efforts to study the feasibility of microgrids and to secure additional emergency generators. 5. H ow will you keep residents engaged in city decisions and ensure their voices are heard? Diogo: Effective governance demands transparency and genuine engagement. Voters deserve to know where their representatives stand on key issues and to be heard in shaping those decisions. I’m committed to regular town halls and accessible feedback portals while being present throughout our community soliciting input —you’ll find me approachable and always willing to engage constructively. I welcome your perspectives as opportunities to deepen my understanding on the issues. My campaign website continuously shares updated policy positions.

Russell: Meaningful engagement begins with visibility and accessibility. I prioritize attending community events, visiting neighbors, and connecting with residents in our parks and public spaces. These interactions create opportunities for open, honest dialogue and help me stay attuned to a broad range of perspectives. I believe that by being present, actively listening, and fostering two-way communication, we can ensure residents remain informed and their opinions are genuinely considered in city decisions. 6. What was the first thing that made you fall in love with Issaquah? Diogo: What first made me fall in love with Issaquah was the stunning Issaquah Alps and natural beauty surrounding us, then discovering an old historical town with a young, innovative, and diverse identity nestled amid it all. Here, neighbors still smile at each other, creating genuine community. Most importantly, there’s so much hope for future generations—a shared belief that we can build something meaningful together for those who will call Issaquah home. Russell: After moving to Issaquah, I paused one morning to take in the mist gliding through the forested hills. It was a quiet moment that revealed Issaquah’s natural beauty. I learned that in 1993, the City Council had identified this very phenomenon, “Clouds, mists that float and rise through Issaquah Alps,” as one of the city’s official treasures. That moment captured the essence of Issaquah for me and has remained a lasting symbol of its beauty. Candidate statements not edited by Highlands Council. For full answers from each candidate, visit issaquahhighlands.com/ general-election-candidates-2025.

VOICES & VISIONS Teenagers are invited to join a safe, inclusive space after school to study, hear from guest speakers and discuss ideas—from mental health and medicine to neuroscience and health.

EVERY THIRD TUESDAY OF THE MONTH FROM 4:30-6PM

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YOGA GROUP EVERY SATURDAY, EVERY SATURDAY, 7:30 7:30 AM AM

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ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

Meet

THE

Candidates Issaquah City Council Position 6

KATIA ZAKHAROFF

1. Introduce yourself. Katia: I’m Katia Zakharoff, a five-year Issaquah resident, a worldclass professional dancer, and a first-generation immigrant who is now a proud US citizen. I am currently serving on the Issaquah Planning Policy Commission. I’ve owned a small business for over twenty years and have an MBA with a concentration in Small Business Management Strategies. Kevin: I’m Kevin Nichols, a scientist and father who’s called Issaquah home for 12 years. My wife and I are raising two children here, and I’m a frequent school volunteer who serves on the ISD levy committee as well as the Capital Projects Oversight Committee. I will bring a data-driven, collaborative approach to solving complex problems while ensuring Issaquah remains affordable for families. 2. What inspired you to run for Issaquah City Council, and what’s your top priority if elected? Katia: As a small business owner, I encountered zoning and permitting challenges, which led me to join local boards and commissions for a deeper understanding. Through volunteering, I saw how improving these processes can benefit our community. Issaquah’s ambitious plans need careful budgeting without overburdening residents. I’ll prioritize community input in these tough decisions because the Council should truly represent the voices of our population. Kevin: I’m running to address our twin crises of traffic and housing, which threaten our quality of life. Watching my parents struggle to find an apartment while downsizing here, and knowing that my children likely won’t be able to afford living here as adults, made

CHESS CLUB

Every Wednesday | 6-9 p.m. at Blakely Hall IssaquahHighlands.com/Events 24 COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

KEVIN NICHOLS

housing personal. Meanwhile, worsening traffic robs families of time daily. My top priorities are improving traffic flow through better transit and intersection design, while accelerating affordable housing development in Central Issaquah. 3. What leadership qualities do you bring that make you the right choice for this position? Katia: Listening to our citizens is essential. Good decisions come from understanding what our community really wants and needs, and that means being open to a variety of ideas and perspectives. As a small business owner, I know that every choice I make can impact lives, and this responsibility really motivates me and drives my commitment to serving the community thoughtfully and effectively, ensuring people’s needs are met. Kevin: I bring a data-driven approach from my scientific background, combined with proven skills in coalition building. Solving complex problems, such as traffic, requires bringing diverse stakeholders together. This involves coordinating with state agencies on signal timing, partnering with neighboring cities on intersection design, and building regional support for transit infrastructure. I’ll work to unite government agencies, community groups, and regional partners to implement solutions that extend beyond city boundaries. 4. In your view, what’s the most important step the city should take to build resilience against emergencies and keep our community safe? Katia: The city must prioritize residents’ concerns, especially after the recent Lake Tradition brush fire. Strengthening our Fire and Rescue team, Police, and Human Services is crucial. While the evacuation

OCT 30 | NOV 20 | DEC 18 7 PM @ BLAKELY HALL

plan is a good start, educating residents on fire risks and emergency preparedness is essential. We also need to address safety issues comprehensively. Programs like CERT and Block Watch can unite us in building a safer, more resilient community. Kevin: We must fully fund emergency services, strengthen our electric grid, and establish additional evacuation routes throughout the city. Had we built all the planned electric substations in the Highlands, last year’s bomb cyclone might not have caused widespread outages. Further, according to city analysis, the Highlands faces up to four hours for complete evacuation, which is dangerously inadequate if we ever need to evacuate. I’ll advocate for completing critical infrastructure, new emergency corridors, and pursuing state grants for public safety. 5. How will you keep residents engaged in city decisions and ensure their voices are heard? Katia: I’ve visited over 6,000 Issaquah homes during my campaign, gaining valuable insights into neighborhood issues. Many of you voiced feeling overlooked in city processes, so I will continue regular walks through neighborhoods and businesses to stay accessible. I’ll also organize and participate in community events to ensure all voices are heard. Additionally, I encourage residents to engage in public comment periods at city meetings and join our commissions and committees to foster community involvement.

and schools. I’ll advocate for additional citizen advisory groups on major initiatives and push for measuring engagement success by participation across all demographics, not just traditional council meeting attendees. We need to make it convenient for working families, seniors, and young people to have their say in shaping our city’s future. 6. What was the first thing that made you fall in love with Issaquah? Katia: The moment I fell in love with Issaquah was back in 2006. I was driving from Klahanie down Issaquah Fall City Road, and the breathtaking view of the mountains completely mesmerized me. From that day on, I couldn’t stop dreaming about living in Issaquah. Kevin: Driving down Front Street to hike Poo Poo Point after our daughter was born, we found the perfect place to raise a family. The combination of top-rated schools where teachers truly care, a walkable downtown with small-town charm, and wilderness trails just minutes away immediately captured us. Issaquah offered everything excellent for our family: education for our children, genuine community connections, and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Candidate statements not edited by Highlands Council. For full answers from each candidate, visit issaquahhighlands.com/ general-election-candidates-2025.

Kevin: I’ll champion bringing more meetings directly to residents through neighborhood forums at community centers, senior facilities,

The must–see, dance–filled musical based on the hit 1980 film!

ISSAQUAH: NOV 18–DEC 28 VillageTheatre.org/9to5 9 to 5 is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTISHOWS.com

ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

Meet

THE

Candidates Issaquah School Board Director District 2

CHINMAY NAGARKAR

1. Introduce yourself. Chinmay: I'm Chinmay Nagarkar—family man, STEM / Olympiad mentor, and Stanford-trained technologist leading engineering programs at Google. We moved to this district for the schools, and my daughter thrived in the special-education programs until she graduated two years ago. My son is homeschooled so he can pursue his passion for math. Life has taught me that one size doesn’t fit all, and incredible talent often hides in plain sight. No Talent can be Left Behind. VoteChinmay.org. Natalie: I am Natalie Anderson and I am running for Issaquah School Board Director, District 2. With a strong background in school volunteerism and community involvement, I am committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. I look forward to working collaboratively with parents, students, educators, and community members to ensure the success and well-being of our children. 2. What inspired you to run for Issaquah School Board, and what’s your top priority if elected?

NATALIE ANDERSON

Natalie: I bring strong leadership qualities, including collaboration, excellent communication, and dedication to education. With two decades of aerospace leadership experience, four years in Quality, and experience serving on a PTA Board, I have honed my skills in strategic planning, team management, and problem-solving. I am also known for my ability to inspire and motivate teams, adapt to changing environments, and make data-driven decisions to achieve the best outcomes. 4. How will you ensure all students—regardless of background or learning style—have access to a high-quality education? Chinmay: We need to broaden opportunities + refocus funds on Science of Reading in K–3, targeted tutoring for the lowest quartile, faithful implementation of IEP/504 plans, reduce punishment disparities, and district-wide enforcement of phone-free instruction so teachers can focus on teaching. Let us expand Career and Technical Education (CTE) labs, dual-credit (with Bellevue College, Renton Tech, LWTech), paid internships with industry support, fee waivers, and transportation help for economically disadvantaged students, engaging the community to help.

Chinmay: Routine concerns about spending and declining outcomes prompted me to review budgets and results. After thousands of doorsteps in my campaign, I hear the same ask—safe, focused classrooms that prepare young adults for college or the trades. My priority is linking the superintendent's evaluation to clear “North Star” targets—e.g., 90% K–3 reading proficiency by 2026, equal academic and extra-curricular opportunities across district schools, and a oneclick “Goals-vs-Outcomes” dashboard on the ISD website.

Natalie: I will ensure all students have access to high-quality education by advocating for differentiated instruction, which tailors teaching methods to meet diverse learning needs. I will also advocate for providing necessary resources and support services, promoting a culturally responsive curriculum, and engaging with parents, teachers, and community members. These strategies will help create an inclusive and supportive educational environment that meets the needs of all students, regardless of their background or learning style.

Natalie: I have two children in the Issaquah School District and what inspired me to run is my passion for protecting and promoting programs such as Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Ensuring every student feels valued and supported is a top priority. If elected, I will work tirelessly to uphold and expand these programs, fostering an inclusive environment where all students can thrive and have more opportunities for their future.

5. What is your long-term vision for the Issaquah School District, and how would you help us get there?

3. What leadership qualities do you bring that make you the right choice for a director position?

Chinmay: We have a highly educated and diverse community with access to resources. My vision is for a large plurality of students to read at grade level if they are in school, for all classrooms to be safe and welcoming to ideas, and for all high school graduates to be college- or career-ready. Achieving this requires trust, including SMART goals, public accountability, community engagement, teacher investment, significant CTE growth, and prioritizing basic infrastructure over big-ticket projects.

Chinmay: I am a great listener, skilled at focusing on what we share in common and synthesizing new ideas that incorporate the best of all views. I’m pro-student—committed to academic / career outcomes. I’m pro-teacher—committed to cutting red tape, protecting prep time. I’m pro-parent, committed to collaboration with families to support student success. I’m a pro-taxpayer, committed to responsible spending and accountability. I will represent everyone in this district, not the special interests.

Natalie: My long-term vision for the Issaquah School District is to continue to support inclusive, innovative, and high-performing educational environment. I will advocate for integrating cutting-edge technology and teaching methods, ensuring access to a well-rounded education, prioritizing mental health and well-being, and fostering strong community partnerships. By focusing on these areas, we can create a supportive network that enhances the educational experience and ensures the success of our students.

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

Meet

THE

Candidates

Issaquah School Board Director District 4

MARC LAZZARA

1. Introduce yourself. Marc: I am a former Navy servicemember with well-rounded experience in field operations, administrative management, and leadership roles. My background has taught me discipline, adaptability, and the ability to lead teams effectively while also managing complex organizational tasks. I bring a balance of hands-on operational experience and strong administrative skills, with a proven commitment to service and teamwork. Sydne: I am Sydne Mullings, a Highlands resident since 2014, an ISD parent, and an Issaquah School Board Director since 2019. I have over 25 years of corporate leadership experience and a long history demonstrating my commitment to the community and to youth through service on non-profit boards. 2. What inspired you to run for Issaquah School Board, and what’s your top priority if elected? Marc: Our district is committed to maintaining integrity while fostering a rich and meaningful educational experience for every student. By providing a culturally diverse and academically rigorous program, we prepare students to thrive in an ever-changing world. Together, we ensure that excellence, inclusivity, and opportunity remain at the heart of education. Sydne: I am inspired by my children and our vibrant community. My top priority is ensuring every student receives a high-quality education that prepares them for success in a rapidly changing world. I am committed to providing all students with the resources and support that they need to reach their potential. I believe that it is critical to have open lines of communication between the district and the community. 3. What leadership qualities do you bring that make you the right choice for a director position? Marc: My military training has laid the foundation and I am a strong advocate for early learning programs, recognizing that the foundation of a child’s education begins long before kindergarten. By investing in early learning, we give children the tools to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally while strengthening families and communities. Every child deserves the best possible start to their educational journey.

SYDNE MULLINGS

4. How will you ensure all students—regardless of background or learning style—have access to a high-quality education? Marc: I will work to ensure that every student, regardless of background or learning style, has access to a high-quality education by supporting culturally responsive teaching, expanding early learning opportunities, and promoting curriculum that challenges all learners. I will also advocate for resources that address individual needs—from special education to advanced placement—so that every student has the chance to thrive. Collaboration with families, teachers, and the community will be at the center of building a district where equity and excellence go hand in hand. Sydne: I have a proven track record of advocating for students with diverse learning styles, fostering inclusive environments, and strengthening partnerships with educators, families and district residents to ensure every student—regardless of background—has access to excellent educational opportunities. Key to supporting student learning is ensuring that our schools are safe and that our facilities are well maintained to inspire success. 5. What is your long-term vision for the Issaquah School District, and how would you help us get there? Marc: My vision for the Issaquah School District is the same as any other parent’s: I want the very best for my child. I am committed to ensuring that my son—and every student in our district—has access to the highest quality education, resources, and opportunities to thrive. Sydne: My vision is for Issaquah schools to provide exceptional educational experiences for all students. To accomplish this goal, we must empower every student to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Critical initiatives to move the district in the right direction are ensuring high academic standards, providing a broad set of engaging course offerings, and funding comprehensive special services programs. Recruitment and retention of talented teachers and staff is imperative. Candidate statements not edited by Highlands Council. For full answers from each candidate, visit issaquahhighlands.com/ general-election-candidates-2025.

Sydne: I offer collaborative leadership, strategic vision, and innovative thinking. Decision making and clear communications are strengths that have been foundational while serving on the Issaquah School Board. Currently, I am the General Manager for Marketing at Microsoft covering the United States, Canada and Latin America. My experience in both business and public service equips me well to advocate effectively for students and families. ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

Meet

THE

Candidates

1. Introduce yourself. Victoria: It is my honor to serve as your State Senator, and before that as State Representative and as an Issaquah City Councilmember and Council President. I’m Victoria Hunt, a scientist with a Ph.D. in Ecology, a mother of two kids in the Issaquah School District, and a CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) volunteer. I’m a collaborative problem-solver; I love being able to stand up for our community and take on local challenges together. Chad: I’m a father, veteran, former Microsoft developer, Issaquah school board president and two-term state representative, and current public school teacher running to bring balance and common sense back to Olympia. I’ve spent my career solving problems in education, technology, and public service focused on real results, not party politics. I’ve lived in Issaquah for over 30 years and I’m running because I believe our communities deserve thoughtful leadership that puts people, not politics, first. 2. What inspired you to run for Senate, and what’s your top priority if elected? Victoria: I was inspired by my years in local government and experience as affiliate faculty in Urban Design and Planning at University of Washington, where I saw how thoughtful planning strengthens communities. I wanted to bring that experience home, so I did! As a mom, I know the work we do today shapes the world for future generations. I’m focused on strengthening communities through affordable housing, excellent public education, protecting our environment, and strong healthcare protections. Chad: I was inspired to run because Olympia has lost its balance, passing record tax hikes while delaying critical projects like Highway 18. As a teacher, parent, and former legislator, I’ve seen the consequences when the government puts politics over people. My top priority is restoring fiscal responsibility and accountability so families can afford to live here and our district can finally get the investments in safety, schools, and infrastructure it needs. 3. What leadership qualities do you bring that make you the right choice for this position? Victoria: I bring evidence-based decision-making from my scientific career, a proven collaborative style from the Issaquah City Council, and a track record of bipartisan policy wins in the legislature. At a time when science is increasingly under attack at the federal level, I’m ready to defend it. As a mom and longtime neighbor, I also bring the everyday perspective of working families across our district. Chad: I bring a record of service, accountability, and problem-solving. As a veteran, I learned discipline and leadership under pressure. As

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

a legislator, I worked across the aisle to deliver results. As a teacher, I’ve seen firsthand how policy impacts families. These experiences give me the perspective and integrity to represent our district and restore balance in Olympia, highlighted by my seven Seattle Times endorsements and consistent Outstanding ratings from the Municipal League of King County. 4. What is your long-term vision for Legislative District 5, in particular Issaquah, and how does it fit into Washington’s future? Victoria: I envision the 5th Legislative District and Issaquah as sustainable, connected, and inclusive, with affordable housing, strong public schools, beautiful natural areas, and accessible services to support our communities’ needs. This aligns with Washington’s broader future of resilience, environmental leadership, and economic opportunity for everyone. By working together with the community, I believe we can make this future a reality. Chad: My long-term vision for the 5th District is a community where families can afford to live, work, and thrive. For Issaquah, that means reducing taxes and mandates, supporting local businesses, and ensuring schools partner with parents to prepare students for tomorrow’s jobs. Our district can be a model for Washington’s future by balancing smart growth with quality of life. I will work to ensure Olympia invests here and supports sustainable, family-friendly communities across the state. 5. What do you see as the most pressing issue facing our district right now? Victoria: Cost of living in our area, especially cost of housing, is a pressing challenge and one that I hear about when I talk to folks at their homes across the district. We need to have more options for affordable housing, and reliable ways to get around and to get to and from work. I’m focusing on addressing these challenges, investing in transportation and infrastructure, and balancing growth with the unique needs of each community. Chad: The most pressing issue is affordability. Families are being squeezed by rising costs for housing, groceries, and gas, while Olympia keeps raising taxes and offering the same costly “solutions” that haven’t worked. Critical projects like Highway 18 are still delayed, and daily life is getting more and more expensive for residents. My focus is restoring fiscal responsibility and finding smarter solutions that ease costs and deliver real results for families in the 5th District. Candidate statements not edited by Highlands Council. For full answers from each candidate, visit issaquahhighlands.com/ general-election-candidates-2025.

ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

Coconut

beau & row JOJO LUNA

honey bean

celeste, weiss & kleine

HappyTails

from Issaquah Highlands Meet Some of Our Paw-sitively Perfect Neighbors

beluga & Bo

chewy & charlie

LUNA 30

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

jasmine

teddy doodle

LUNA

lucy LUNA

isa kirby

BEAN

nelson lucy

olive

moose

sundew

nigel

ziggy ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

Ask

Roo

Your Go-To Guru for Pawsitive Living

Roo, a lovable 15-pound mixed-breed rescue, has found her happily-ever-after in the Wisteria Park neighborhood after a challenging start in life. When she’s not busy snuggling, snacking or strolling, Roo loves dishing out life advice to her furry friends and their humans. Her motto? “Treat yourself…literally.” Have a question for Roo? Email IssaquahAskRoo@gmail.com.

Dear Roo, What’s the deal with human noses? I know my human can smell some things. She’s always going on about how I “need a bath” (eye roll). But I catch scents all the time that she seems to miss entirely. Is this a universal human flaw, or is mine just broken? Still sniffing, Lucy Dear Roo, I am baffled by something my humans do. They take our most prized possessions—we’re talking brand new tennis balls, favorite frisbees, the works—and throw them far away. As a loyal and speedy pup, I do my part by chasing after them and bringing them back, which seems to make my humans very happy. But then, they throw them away again! Why, oh why, do humans engage in this bizarre behavior? Thanks in advance, Flash Hi Flash! Ah, yes, you’ve stumbled upon one of the greatest mysteries of human behavior. Scientists have yet to crack the code on this, but one thing is proven: it’s fun! We get to run, stretch our legs, and make our humans happy. And sometimes, there are even treats involved! So, my advice? Just go with it. The truth is… humans are equally confused by some of our behaviors—zoomies for one—so some things are simply beyond explanation.

Hi Lucy, Oh, the great nose mystery! You’ve sniffed out one of the many ways we dogs are, frankly, superior to humans. We have up to 60% more smell receptors than they do, and our brains dedicate 40 times more processing power to smell. We even detect odors while both inhaling and exhaling—talk about multitasking! And here’s the real kicker: while humans rely on words to communicate, we’ve got a secret weapon called the vomeronasal organ tucked between our nasal cavity and the roof of our mouth. It’s designed to detect pheromones, giving us insight into the emotional and social states of other animals. Most humans navigate the world primarily through sight, but for us, scent is everything. That’s why with a little training, we’re able to detect medical issues, guide people safely and sense danger long before it arrives. It’s not magic—it’s just good sniffing.

Fetch on, my friend!

So yes, Lucy, your human’s nose is working about as well as most. But hey, they’ve got opposable thumbs and car keys, so we’ll let it slide.

Paw-sitively yours,

Roo

Dear Roo, I’m worried there might be something wrong with my dog. About once a day, he goes wild—spinning in circles, springing back and forth, and acting totally possessed. Should I be concerned about this behavior? Please help, Concerned in Crofton Springs Hi Concerned, It’s very kind of you to look out for your pup, but rest assured, what you’re describing is perfectly normal. That burst of wild energy is called a “Frenetic Random Activity Period,” or commonly known in the dog world simply as “the zoomies.” Zoomies are usually a sign of joy or a way for us to shake off stress. My brother gets them every night before bed. He zooms around to burn off the leftover energy from his day before settling in for sleep. Other common triggers include post-bath relief (because let’s be honest, baths are weird), or the excitement of seeing you again after a long day apart. So, what should you do when your furry friend goes full rocket mode? My advice: sit back, enjoy the show and laugh along. It’s our way of saying, “life is good!” Once we’ve zoomed it out, we’re usually ready for snuggles, belly rubs or a nap by your side. Paw-sitively yours, Roo

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

TRICK-OR-TREATING FUN FOR FAMILIES, KIDS & PETS!

TREATS & TAILS

SATURDAY, OCT. 25, 12 - 2 PM Free to attend. Time slot reservations strongly recommended.

PRESENTED BY:

The

VILLAGE

market

SHOP LOCAL ARTISANS & VENDORS

HOLIDAY

pop up Nov. 23 | 11 am-3pm ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

HIGHLANDS YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD

TALES FROM THE HY BOARD Halloween holds a special meaning for everyone—whether it’s dressing up in costumes, spending time with friends, or creating memories that last a lifetime. These traditions and moments are what make the season so magical. On the topic of Halloween, the Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board is gearing up for our fourth annual Treats & Tails event on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 12-2 p.m.

AVIK SITANI Highlands Youth Advisory Board & Logan Park Resident Every Halloween, I make my costume completely different from the previous year, sticking to original designs! No vampires, ghosts, ghouls, zombies, angels, demons, etc. I always choose to wear Halloween costumes that I never see commonly! For example, in the last few Halloweens, I’ve worn Rengoku from Demon Slayer, an owl, a phoenix and a few other eccentric costumes!

Behind the scenes of this popular event, teen volunteers work hard to transform Blakely Hall with festive Halloween decorations and fun activities suitable for all ages. Members are dedicated to making this one of the most memorable events of the year. You can catch sneak peeks of the preparations on our brand-new HY Board YouTube channel (@HYBoard) and Instagram (@IssaquahHYBoard). Looking ahead, don’t forget about the HY Board’s annual holiday event, Parent’s Night Out. This special evening gives parents a well-deserved break while kids enjoy a night of holiday-themed fun with HY Board members. Mark your calendars for Friday, Dec. 12. To celebrate the season of jack-o’-lanterns and trick-or-treating, we asked HY Board members to recount a special Halloween tradition or memory that has stayed with them over the years…

—Saira Hashmey My favorite Halloween memory is probably when I went trickor-treating with my friends in sixth grade. We were out for a long time and got a ton of candy. —Lily Pinkston

One of my favorite Halloween memories took place a couple years ago as some friends and I were getting ready to go trick-ortreating. Just as I pushed the door open, a scary Grim Reaper leapt out and yelled, “Boo!” I nearly jumped out of my costume. To this day, we still laugh about that night, and my friend never misses a chance to remind me of the terrified look on my face. —Anisha Arasu

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

Trickor-treating with my brother is one Halloween custom that has stuck with me over the years. Weeks in advance, we would map out the houses that distributed the “good candy” and organize our costumes. Under the streetlights, I recall the thrill of rushing from door to door while giggling and comparing our stashes. What makes it unique is how those evenings transformed a typical neighborhood into a magical and adventurous place, strengthening my bonds with my family and community. —Atharv Rastogi Last year, I was outside with my family trick-or-treating when my parents saw it was going to rain and suggested we head back. I didn’t want to go back as there were still lots of houses in front of us, so we kept going with my parents reluctantly following. A minute later, it started drizzling and then raining and then pouring. We kept moving, knocking on doors and collecting candy. We cared about the candy a lot more than some water. Trudging back home through the mud, my brother and I had grins plastered to our faces, our candy overflowing. Sadly, at home, half our candy was soaked. Still, I enjoyed the challenge. My parents? Not so much. —Noah Meckstroth

I loved trick-ortreating on Harrison Street as a kid! It was always so much fun walking up with my friends and seeing everyone’s cool decorations. —Tvisha Shah

HIGHLANDS YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD My favorite Halloween tradition is when my brother and I come home and compare candy with each other. When we both finish Trick-or-Treating with friends, we come home and dump our candy on two sides of the living room. We then sit and compare who got more, then we start trading and making deals for the candy we enjoy most. This tradition is special to me because it represents a special bond with my brother that I’ll always remember, even as we get older and trick-or-treating becomes a memory. –Avik Sitani

A Halloween tradition that is really special to me is watching scary movies with friends. Ever since freshman year of high school, we gather to eat Halloween candy and watch Jordan Peele movies. This is special to me because I hate scary movies, so experiencing that emotion with friends is really memorable and special.

When I was in 5th or 6th grade, I went trick-or-treating with a group of my friends because one of them was about to move to another state. We walked around for a while, and when we got tired, we stopped at Logan Park. We hung out for a while eating candy and chatting, saying our goodbyes. I normally don’t care about trick-ortreating, but this memory was more meaningful as it was the last time I saw this friend. —Haley Lim

—Zinna Park

Ever since I was young, my family friends would gather to carve pumpkins and make jack-o’-lanterns. Although it can get messy, it’s such a fun experience because you can make a plain, boring pumpkin into a piece of art! Along with that, trick-or-treating every year with my friends is an experience I will always cherish, too. From Halloween costumes to counting candy, trick-or-treating has never failed to bring me closer to my friends. —Nikitha Kondapi

My family always goes to Jubilee Farms to pick out pumpkins and carve them the week before Halloween. Then, we take the pumpkin seeds and roast them. My favorite part of the Halloween season is the haunted hayrides we enjoy as a family. This makes Halloween special to me. —Zach Rich

Every Halloween season, I love baking pumpkin chocolate chip cookies with my family. We put on a Halloween movie and drink warm apple cider. It’s a simple, yet meaningful tradition that I look forward to every year! —Grace Rich

Every year, I love going to Spirit Halloween and browsing all the decor and costumes, even if I don’t buy anything. It always helps me brainstorm ideas for costumes as well as gets me in the Halloween spirit. It’s also just an enjoyable outing with my family and a short break from the world. —Asher Pinkston

Every year, my family decorates the house and carves pumpkins. We decorate the house to the max by putting lots of pumpkins and ghost inflatables. Furthermore, my brother and I sometimes carve pumpkins to either make them look happy or scary, then place them outside for everyone to see.

As a kid, I really loved going trick-ortreating in Dahlia Park. The houses there always had the best decorations, and a lot of people were dressed up to answer the door. The effort people put in made it really fun! —Maia Esbensen

—Nikhil Khatwani

I always loved bartering my Halloween candy with friends and my sister. This memory has stayed with me because it’s the only time of the year when I can get my hands on Almond Joys! It’s special to me because I love bargaining for candy by offering anything of mine. It’s just so fun!

—Arjit Singh A few years ago, my siblings and I dressed up as Seahawks football players, putting on jerseys to represent different players. This meant that our jerseys each had a different number on it. When we went trick-or-treating to one of the houses, a guy saw our jerseys and decided to give each of us the same number of candies as the number that was on our shirt. However, while my brother and I both had the number “3” on our shirt, my sister had the number A “25.” In the end, he still gave her Halloween three candies, but it was a tradition or memory funny memory we still that really stayed with me talk about today. was carving pumpkins. Every year, I would sit around the table —Jeric Yuen with a bunch of newspapers, tools, and of course, the pumpkin. I would try my best to gut the pumpkin and carve spooky designs, but most of the time, I would make a huge mess and my designs would never go to plan. However, the outcome didn’t matter to me. The reason I did it was because I enjoyed the process of making a jack-o’-lantern to display during trick-or-treating. —Saahil Jain ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

EVENT CALENDAR OCTOBER OCT. 2, 6:30-8 p.m.

BASICS OF EMERGENCY PREP WORKSHOP Blakely Hall Windstorms, earthquakes, wildfires... oh my! In this free workshop, you will learn about emergency risks in the area and cover the basics of what you need to know to prepare your household for a disaster, including supplies, local resources and steps you can take to be ready for the unexpected.

OCT. 25, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

MONSTER MASH 5K Lake Sammamish State Park Dash with the Monster Mash to benefit local students through the Issaquah Schools Foundation! All ages and abilities welcome Professionally chip-timed Costumes encouraged Raffle prizes Register by Oct. 12 to get your tee and medal!

- Sponsored Listing -

TREATS & TAILS OCT. 25, 12-2 p.m.

TREATS & TAILS * Blakely Hall OCT. 12, 4-5:30 p.m.

GALLERY RECEPTION: STEFANIE ANGELINA ALLISON Blakely Hall Enjoy local art with friends and neighbors as you view “Visual Transcendence” and meet artist Stephanie Angelina Allison! Open house-style. Refreshments provided.

OCT. 23, 6:30-8 p.m.

CANDIDATE FORUM: ISSAQUAH MAYOR Blakely Hall

Meet and hear directly from Mark Mullet and Lindsey Walsh, the two candidates running for Issaquah mayor. Moderated forum begins at 7 p.m. Submit questions in advance at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

All kiddos (and well-behaved pets) are invited to put on a Halloween costume and join us for some early trick-or-treating fun! Bring a bag to collect your goodies. The event is free, but time slot reservations are recommended. Kids and pets must be accompanied by an adult. Sponsored by Highlands Fiber Network.

For more event information, scan the QR code or visit the Issaquah Highlands event calendar at issaquahhighlands.com/events. OCT. 31, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

BLOOD DRIVE Blakely Hall Donate at our mobile pop-up drive with Bloodworks Northwest. Appointment required.

NOVEMBER NOV. 6, 6:30-8 p.m.

RESILIENT POWER WORKSHOP Blakely Hall Don’t be left in the dark! Learn about options to keep the lights (and other conveniences) on when the power’s out.

NOV. 7, 7-8:30 p.m.

OPEN MIC NIGHT Blakely Hall

Celebrate the talent in our community! All ages are welcome to participate or join the audience for an evening of fun and entertainment!

As we As we wrap wrap up up this this summer summer and and start start planning planning for for next next year, year, please scan scan the summer please the QR QR code code and and share share your your thoughts thoughts on on summer events. Your events. Your input input is is extremely extremely valuable valuable as as we we plan plan ahead! ahead!

NOV. 13, 6:30-8 p.m.

GALLERY RECEPTION: YIJU MILLER Blakely Hall Enjoy local art with friends and neighbors as you view YiJu Miller’s “Beautiful Northwest” exhibition and meet the artist! Open house-style. All are welcome. Refreshments provided.

NOV. 15, 1-3 p.m.

NEW NEIGHBOR SOCIAL Blakely Hall New to Issaquah Highlands? Residents who’ve moved in during the past year are invited to join us to meet other new neighbors and learn about the community. Families welcome - childcare and a teen table provided. Please register in advance by emailing lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org.

NOV. 20, 5-6:30 p.m.

HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING Village Green Park Kick off the holiday season with a special tree lighting at Village Green Park! Warm up with free cider and hot chocolate, courtesy of the Issaquah Ice Cream Trike.

NOV. 23, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

VILLAGE MARKET: HOLIDAY POP-UP Blakely Hall

Festive fun and fabulous shopping await! Sip on hot cider and enjoy tasty snacks while browsing a curated selection of vendors offering perfect holiday gifts for everyone on your nice list (and even a little something for yourself)!

DECEMBER DEC. 4, 6:30-8 p.m.

HOUSEHOLD EMERGENCY PLAN WORKSHOP Blakely Hall It’s vital for every household to have an emergency plan. Bring your family or roommates and we will walk through the process of building your plan together. Kids are welcome to join. Think of it as family time with a purpose!

NOV. 20 to DEC. 7

LETTERS TO SANTA * Blakely Hall Kids are invited to drop letters to Santa in the special mailbox outside Blakely Hall. No stamp needed. Letters dropped between Nov. 20 and Dec. 7 will receive a response. Printable letter template online.

DEC. 12, 6-9 p.m.

PARENT’S NIGHT OUT *$ Blakely Hall Drop your kids (K-5th grade) off for a fun night of games, crafts, snacks and a movie with the Highlands Youth Advisory Board. $20/child.

DEC. 14, 4-5:30 p.m.

GALLERY RECEPTION: GREG GOOLSBY Blakely Hall Enjoy local art with friends and neighbors as you view Greg Goolsby’s “Revel in Winter” exhibition and meet the artist! Open house-style. All are welcome. Refreshments provided. EVENT CALENDAR KEY * Hosted by Highlands Youth $ Paid Event

IHCA Finance Committee UPCOMING GOVERNANCE IHCA ARC IHCA Board of Directors MEETINGS Second Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m.

HFN Board of Directors Third Mondays, 5 p.m.

First Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m.

Highlands Council Board of Trustees

Fourth Mondays, 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 21, 12 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, 12 p.m. ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

GET CONNECTED! Explore Community Groups for Every Interest

To learn more about each community group, visit the Issaquah Highlands event calendar at issaquahhighlands.com/events or scan the QR code.

CHESS CLUB

SENIOR SOCIAL GROUP

Challenge your mind! All ages are invited to join Chess Club at Blakely Hall every Wednesday from 6-9 p.m. Photo courtesy of Daniel Kaseumsouk and Chad Fondren.

Senior Social Group plays bingo, courtesy of Sunrise Senior Living, at Blakely Hall every third Thursday from 2-3:30 p.m.

ADHD Caregivers Group

First Thursdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Blakely Hall If you care for someone with ADD/ ADHD, you are welcome to join us to chat, share experiences and get support. Caregivers and parents with kids of all ages welcome!

Book Club

Second Tuesdays, 7-8:30 p.m. Blakely Hall Meet neighbors, socialize and explore a variety of books! Learn more at issaquahhighlands.com/events or facebook.com/ihbookclub.

Chess Club

Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m. Blakely Hall All ages and experience levels are welcome for fun and chess! Learn more at facebook.com/issaquahchess and check online at issaquahhighlands. com/events for special tournaments. No meeting on Oct. 22.

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

Co-Working Group

Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Blakely Hall Grab your laptop and head over to Blakely Hall on Tuesdays for free Wi-Fi, coffee and snacks. All adults looking for a place to get some work done while enjoying the co-work environment are welcome.

$ Figure Drawing Group

Mondays, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Blakely Hall Join fellow artists for weekly threehour sessions to draw from a live nude model. Please bring your own drawing materials. $15 per person.

$ Go Figure! Drawing Group

Second Sundays, 7-10 p.m. Blakely Hall Delve into the art of figure drawing at these monthly immersive sessions. Artists of all skill levels are welcome to practice sketching a professional model in a series of poses. $15 per person donation collected on entry. Please bring your own drawing materials.

NEW! Her Time: Talk, Laugh, Repeat

Third Fridays, 7-9 p.m. Blakely Hall Need a little more connection in your life? Join a monthly gathering for women of all ages to unwind, share stores and build friendships in a relaxed, welcoming space. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime local, bring along your favorite beverage, laugh out loud and enjoy meaningful conversation with kindred spirits.

Media Club

First Thursdays, 7-8:30 p.m. Blakely Hall Join a dynamic group for anyone 14 and up who lives discussing books, movies, shows, podcasts or any other type of media. Bring your unique take on your current favorites and get ready for lively, thoughtful conversations.

Meditation Group

Fridays, 2-3 p.m. Online Practice exercises that promote balance, strength and calmness while relaxing your mind. Contact ih.meditation@gmail.com for more information.

$ Portrait Drawing Group

Fridays, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Blakely Hall Join fellow art enthusiasts for portrait drawing from a live clothed model. There is no instruction provided, although many group members are willing to share insights. Please bring your own drawing materials. $15 per person will cover the cost of the model.

$ Poker Night

Oct. 30, Nov. 20, Dec. 18, 7-10 p.m. Blakely Hall Whether you are a novice or a salty vet looking for some steep competition, you will love our monthly Texas Hold’em tournament! $40 buy-in to play.

Senior Social Group

Tuesdays, 2-3:30 p.m. Blakely Hall Meet fellow seniors for casual social time every week. Coffee, tea and snacks will be provided, courtesy of Sunrise Senior Living. Check the calendar for planned activities!

Tai Chi Fitness Class

Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 a.m. Blakely Hall Increase flexibility, calm your breath and clear your mind with free Chenstyle Tai Chi for all who are interested in learning and practicing together.

$ Toastmasters

First and Third Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Fire Station 73 Expand your knowledge and horizons while sharing your interests and goals in a positive, supportive environment. Visit ihtm.tastmastersclubs.org for more information.

NEW! Voices & Visions

Third Thursdays, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Blakely Hall Teenagers are invited to join a safe, inclusive space after school to study, hear from guest speakers and discuss ideas—from mental health and medicine to neuroscience and health.

Yarns & Threads Group

Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon Blakely Hall Second and Fourth Fridays, 9-9:45 a.m. Online All knitters, crocheters, and stitchers are welcome. For more details or questions, please contact catherine.coulter@ ihmail.com.

Yoga Group

Saturdays, 7:30 a.m. Blakely Hall Explore the mental and physical benefits of yoga with friends and neighbors as we follow videos together. Bring your own mat, towel, water bottle and props. For more details, please reach out to jyothypraveen@hotmail.com.

COMMUNITY GROUPS KEY $ Participation Fee

Book Club Celebrates 20 Years Together BY MADDIE COATS, Highlands Council Communications Manager

For two decades, the Issaquah Highlands Book Club has been bringing neighbors together over a shared love of reading—and building lasting friendships along the way. What started as a casual conversation among a few residents during a Bunco game has grown into a thriving group that continues to meet monthly at Blakely Hall. Over the years, the book club has nurtured friendships that extend far beyond the pages. Lifelong friendships have blossomed among members, with many continuing to thrive long-distance after people leave the community.

believes community grows stronger when people feel respected and free to share their perspectives—even if tastes differ. Does this long-standing community group interest you? Drop by Book Club at Blakely Hall every second Tuesday of the month from 7–8:30 p.m. “Reading books never goes out of style,” Lisa said. “The club will be here when it fits into your life, and it will be waiting until you can come back when life gets hectic.”

“People have come and gone from the group, but most still remain linked,” said Lisa Collins, the current Book Club group leader. “Sharing a love of reading is very powerful.” Lisa said the Book Club stands out because members explore a wide range of books, not just bestsellers. She especially enjoys the variety of titles they read together. She still remembers the very first meeting at Blakely Hall, when the group discussed “The Mermaid Chair” by Sue Monk Kidd. Any member can nominate books throughout the year. In December, the group votes on each selection. The titles with the most votes are added to the reading calendar for the following year. Members don’t even need to have read the selected book to attend the discussions, though they must be comfortable with spoilers. “Funnily enough some of the best discussions come from books that didn’t land,” Lisa added. “There’s a lot to discuss when the writing or editing goes wrong.” Lisa reflected that one of the biggest lessons over the years has been the importance of making space for everyone’s voice to be heard. She

Book Club meets at Blakely Hall every second Tuesday of the month from 7-8:30 p.m.

ISSAQUAHHIGHLANDS.COM

POL

Parent's Night Out

FOR ELEMENTARY-AGED STUDENTS (K-5)

Games Crafts Snacks Movie JOIN THE HIGHLANDS YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD FOR A FUN NIGHT AT BLAKELY HALL

Santa

BY ER V I L DE E P R E X

Letters to

Send a letter, receive a reply! Mailbox outside Blakely Hall.

FRIDAY

Deadline: Sunday, Dec. 7

issaquahhighlands.com/holidays

DEC 2025

6-9 PM

YOU RE INVITED! YOU’RE I NV I TED!

y a d i l o ’

H 42

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

Fall into Community

Highlands Council Welcomes New Trustees We are excited to welcome three new trustees to the Highlands Council Board. This ninemember advisory board represents a diverse range of stakeholders—including homeowners, commercial property representatives, multi-family housing management, and the greater Issaquah community. The newest trustees, elected during the June and August meetings, bring a wealth of experience, insight and dedication to our shared mission.

CHRIS REICHLEY — Commercial Representative

LINDSEY PINKSTON Highlands Council Executive Director & Wisteria Park resident As the leaves turn, our team is gearing up for fourth quarter events. This month marks the kickoff of the Are You Ready? Workshop Series, featuring Basics of Emergency Prep on Oct. 2. Join us each month to strengthen your personal readiness and build community resilience together. On Oct. 22, we’re excited to host a Candidate Forum for the two candidates running for Issaquah mayor—both proud Issaquah Highlands residents. Hear their positions on community issues and gain insight ahead of the election. And don’t miss Treats & Tails on Oct. 25. Our teen-led Halloween celebration is perfect for kids, families and even pets. Come show off your costumes and enjoy some fa-boo-lous fun! November brings festive cheer to Issaquah Highlands with the Village Market: Holiday Pop-Up, Community Tree Lighting and New Neighbor Social.

Chris Reichley balances two roles in Issaquah Highlands—Harborstone Credit Union branch manager in Grand Ridge Plaza and Dahlia Park homeowner. This dual perspective gives him the unique perspective to balance the differing needs of stakeholder businesses and residents. With his background in finance and banking, Chris immediately stepped into the role of board treasurer, succeeding Phil Nored, who concluded his six-year term in June.

LYNDA TAMMONE — Homeowner Representative A resident of Issaquah Highlands for seven years, Lynda Tammone has consistently demonstrated her commitment to our community. She has served on the IHCA Board of Directors and the IHCA Playground Improvement Committee, and she continues to be an active volunteer on Highlands Council’s Equity Committee, Community Safety Committee and Resilience Hub Task Force. Lynda’s passions for inclusion, equity and emergency preparedness align nicely with Highlands Council’s values and priorities.

MARY ANNE DILLON — Multi-Family Housing Representative Mary Anne Dillon brings decades of leadership and advocacy to Highlands Council. Currently vice president of permanent housing at YWCA, she has held multiple leadership positions since joining the organization in 1997. Her extensive experience working with local governments and nonprofits brings a valuable perspective to the board. Mary Anne currently serves on the Human Services Commission in Lynnwood and is board president of the Housing Consortium of Everett and Snohomish County.

The Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board is already planning Parent’s Night Out for Dec. 12. This year’s theme? Let’s just say you will want to “run, run, as fast as you can” to sign your kiddos up for this fun night out! This October through December, the Blakely Hall Gallery will showcase an incredible lineup of local artists. Visit during regular business hours to enjoy the art or join us for gallery receptions to mingle with neighbors and meet the artists. Receptions are free and include refreshment, thanks to the support of the Issaquah Arts Commission! Learn more on pages 54-56. However you choose to engage this fall, we wish you a season filled with pumpkin spice and everything nice!

Goodbye Sun, Hello Flannel!

As summer fades into fall, the Highlands Council team is reflecting on the variety of summer events we hosted—and we’re already dreaming up ideas for next year. From our first-ever Movie on the Green to the beloved Global Grub & Groove and Community Picnic, we had a blast connecting with neighbors and celebrating summer together. Now, we’d love to hear from YOU! What did you enjoy? What could be improved? And what do you definitely want to see next summer? Please take a minute to fill out our brief, anonymous survey to help us make the summer of 2026 even better!

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When Passion Meets Partnership:

Issaquah Brokers Lynn Crane and Barb Pexa Join Forces BY SUMMER TAYLOR, FREELANCE WRITER

There’s a kind of alchemy that happens when two people are perfectly matched—and that’s what sparked when local real estate brokers Lynn Crane and Barb Pexa teamed up to sell a home on Harrison Street. What began as a one-time collaboration evolved into a powerful partnership rooted in shared values, complementary strengths, and a deep love for the Issaquah Highlands and surrounding communities. “With this partnership, our clients benefit from two of Issaquah’s top realtors working on their behalf,” Barb said. “Lynn and I operate similarly. We strive to deliver great customer care and have our clients’ best interests at heart. Plus, we have fun together.” Lynn shared that their new venture allows them to do even more.

was a Division I All-American gymnast at Pennsylvania State University, later coaching at the University of Florida and serving as head coach at the University of Illinois. Barb was a Division I swimmer for the University of Hawai‘i and represented Guam at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona. “That competitive mindset drives us,” Barb explains. Lynn seconded that sentiment, adding that the duo is “tenacious, focused, and always striving for excellence,” whether it’s negotiating a deal or preparing a home for market.

Meet the Brokers

“Barb and I strive to live big lives,” she said. “This relationship lets us expand on the things we enjoy while ensuring that our clients have a seamless experience and our businesses keep moving forward.”

Committed to the Community Both Lynn and Barb have strong ties to Issaquah and extensive knowledge of the area. Lynn has lived in three Issaquah Highlands neighborhoods over the last 18 years, and her three sons made their way through the Issaquah School District while she worked at Grand Ridge Elementary. “I love living in the Highlands and the relationships I’ve built here. I take pride in caring for my neighbors and clients as if they were family,” Lynn said. “Trust is everything—especially when I’m helping clients navigate one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.” Barb moved to Issaquah a decade ago when she discovered a mid-century modern gem on Cougar Mountain and quickly immersed herself in the local scene. She serves on the City of Issaquah’s Economic Vitality Commission, and her two children attend district schools and play for local soccer clubs. Barb also co-founded two popular Issaquah restaurants: Flat Iron Grill and The Black Duck Cask and Bottle House. “I’m proud to walk the talk on investing in real estate,” Barb said. “I’ve spent 20 years as a broker, restored my own home, bought and sold multiple properties, and managed long-term and vacation rentals. These experiences allow me to give clients honest, authentic advice.”

Competitive Spirit, Elevated Service A key element that differentiates Lynn and Barb is their competitive edge, shaped by years as elite athletes. Lynn

Barb Pexa and Lynn Crane at one of their joint listings in Issaquah.

Lynn Crane • Lives in Issaquah Highlands with her husband, Jeff • Builds deep, long-lasting relationships with her clients • Praised as “expert,” “proactive,” and “totally trustworthy” • Contact: 425-241-3225, lynncrane.re@gmail.com

Barb Pexa • Lives on Cougar Mountain with her two kids and their dog • Brings high energy, precision, and a flair for design • Commended for being “communicative,” “knowledgeable,” and “patient” • Contact: 425-753-0230, barb@barbpexa.com Together, Lynn and Barb bring more than 30 years of experience, deep knowledge of Issaquah Highlands and a genuine passion for the Issaquah community. Whether you’re buying, selling or simply exploring your options, they invite you to reach out for a coffee and conversation.

Want to see their energy in action? Check out their announcement video to get a feel for what makes this duo dynamic.

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

Spot, Listen, Observe A BE

GINN

ER’S GUIDE TO B

W IRD

The Art of Observing Birds

FORREST KORAN Alton Heartwood Resident

Did you know that our neighborhood is a uniquely good spot for birding? It’s true! We have so much green space just outside our doors, and a diverse set of habitats like meadows, ponds, wetlands and forests that each host a different population of birds.

So, what’s it like to watch birds? That depends on how you approach it! You might feel the thrill of spotting a new species, turning your birdwatching into a real-life version of Pokémon GO™. Or you may experience a comforting sense of connection by keeping tabs on your local Junco family. Over time, you can even develop a sense of mastery as you train your brain to recognize sparrows by their calls or identify tiny brown birds in flight. Birdwatching is as much about listening as it is about looking. Birds are constantly communicating—chirping, trilling and calling—to let each other know where they are, what they’re up to, and whether any predators are nearby. Tuning in to these sounds can transform your birdwatching experience.

How Do I Start? 1. Notice the Bird and Get Curious The first step is simply to pay attention! Did you notice a bunch of tiny birds zipping around? Is there a bird chirping outside your house? Take a moment to really observe and spark your curiosity. 2. Identify Your Feathered Friend • If you can see the bird clearly, try using a guidebook or narrating what you notice—its shape, colors and behaviors can help you figure out what it is. A swallow soars through the air.

• If you hear the bird but can’t see it well, apps like Merlin Bird ID can help you identify species by sound. • If you take a photo, upload it to iNaturalist to share your observation and get help from the community in identifying it.

3. Share Your Discovery Once you’ve identified the bird, tell someone about it! Sharing your observations adds to the fun and helps build a community of fellow bird enthusiasts.

Helpful Tools for Magnification The killdeer is often found in fields, lawns and parking lots.

Birds are small and quick, so a little optical help goes a long way. For binoculars, the Vortex 8x42 is a great choice, offering a wide

AT C H I N G

field of view at an affordable price. If you want to photograph birds, even an older DSLR with a telephoto zoom lens is sufficient to capture images for identification.

Underrated Birds and Where to Find Them 1. Dark-Eyed Junco Once you notice them, you will see them everywhere. These little birds stick close to their family groups, maintaining small territories where they chatter amongst themselves. You might find them pecking for tiny seeds and grubs on gravel paths and parking lots. 2. Northern Flicker Among the quirkiest woodpeckers, the Northern Flicker prefers ground foraging to tree drilling. Keep an eye out for them poking around sidewalk cracks in search of ants. 3. Osprey A true athlete of the sky—and my personal favorite—the osprey is a master fisher. Watch them in the afternoons as they circle, hover and plunge into stormwater ponds to snag fish. 4. Pacific Wren This tiny, secretive bird makes up for its size with one of the most complex and beautiful songs in the forest. You’ll most likely hear it before you see it, especially along shaded forest trails near Central Park.

Beyond Birds: Explore Bugs! If you’ve gotten familiar with your neighborhood juncos and ospreys, try shifting your attention to dragonflies, beetles or even spiders. While North America has around 800 species of birds, it has more than 30,000 species of beetles. Bird species shift with the landscape; a cattail marsh and a conifer forest will host very different residents. With bugs, the scale is even smaller. The trunk of an alder tree and the sword fern two feet away can host completely different communities of tiny creatures. All photos by Forrest Koran.

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COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

FROM THE CITY Fall into Fun with Issaquah Parks & Community Services Youth Basketball: Building Skills and Teamwork

JEFF WATLING Parks & Community Services Director, City of Issaquah

As the leaves turn golden and the crisp autumn air sets in, Issaquah Parks & Community Services is ready to help residents make the most of the season. This fall’s lineup is filled with exciting activities for all ages. Whether you’re looking for active recreation, festive events or enriching programs for your children, there’s something for everyone.

Our popular youth basketball leagues are back, giving kids the chance to learn the fundamentals of the game while having fun and making friends. Open to various age groups, youth basketball offers an opportunity for players to develop coordination, teamwork and sportsmanship in a supportive, positive environment. Practices and games are designed to help kids grow their skills on the court and their confidence off it. Learn more: issaquahwa.gov/YouthBasketball

homework and enjoy active play. Whether it’s a specific day of the week or every day, it’s an excellent way for students to transition between school and home while staying engaged and social. Learn more: issaquahwa.gov/SchoolhouseRec

Volunteer with Green Issaquah Fall is the perfect time to make an impact on our natural environment. Our Green Issaquah team has plenty of options in store. From planting events to tree giveaways to Green Issaquah Day, there’s something for everyone.

BOO at the Barn: A Spooktacular Tradition

Learn more: issaquahwa.gov/GreenIssaquah

BOO at the Barn, one of Issaquah’s favorite fall traditions, returns to Pickering Barn on Oct. 24 and 25. This family-friendly event features festive activities, seasonal crafts, and of course, a little Halloween fun! Kids can dress in costumes, enjoy themed games and enjoy a night of thrills along a haunted trail. BOO at the Barn is the perfect way to celebrate the season and connect with neighbors.

Fall is the ideal time to get involved in community programs, whether that means signing up your child for a sports league, attending a seasonal event or taking advantage of after-school activities. Issaquah Parks & Community Services is proud to offer high-quality, inclusive programming that strengthens our community and provides something for everyone.

Learn more: issaquahwa.gov/BooAtTheBarn

We encourage all community members to explore the full range of offerings and register early to secure spots in popular programs. With so many choices, you can create a personalized fall calendar that fits your family’s schedule and interests.

Before and After School Programs: Schoolhouse Rec! With the school year in full swing, our Schoolhouse Rec! program is here to support working families and enrich students’ days. Available before and after school, this program offers a safe, supervised environment where kids can engage in creative activities, complete

Plan Your Family’s Fall Activities

Don’t miss out on a season of fun, connection and new experiences! Explore updated program listings and register online at issaquahwa.gov/register.

Whether you’re shooting hoops, dressing up for BOO at the Barn or planting trees, Issaquah Parks & Community Services is here to make your autumn memorable. Photos by City of Issaquah

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FROM THE CITY Rethink Your Ride:

Cut Carbon with Smarter Transportation Why Transportation Matters

STACY VYNNE MCKINSTRY Sustainability Manager, City of Issaquah

When the city launched the Climate Action Plan in 2021, it set ambitious goals to address climate change by reducing emissions from transportation. Even though the plan is getting a 5-year refresh in 2026, helping people drive less and use more sustainable options will remain a cornerstone of the city’s strategy. In addition to supporting our community in making progress towards climate goals, rethinking how we move around the community has many other benefits:

WINDLEY KNOWLTON Civic Spark Fellow, City of Issaquah

Did you know that over one-third of Issaquah’s total carbon emissions come from transportation? The way we get to work, school and around town plays a major role in our community’s carbon footprint. That’s why one of the city’s top priorities in updating the Issaquah Climate Action Plan is helping residents make low-impact travel choices.

1. Cleaner Air Means Healthier People! Reducing major sources of air pollution from transportation can lower asthma rates (especially for kids), reduce heart and lung disease, and provide overall improved public health. 2. Less Traffic Means More Livable Neighborhoods! Traffic is one of the biggest areas of concern for our residents, according to the 2025 Community Survey. Rethinking how we get around town can make for less traffic congestion, safer streets for walking and biking, and stronger local connections. (You might discover something new if you walk or bike instead of drive.) 3. Save Money for Households and the Community! When you choose to walk, bike, carpool or take transit, that means more money in your pocket by saving on fuel, vehicle maintenance and parking. For the city, fewer cars on the road means savings on repair and maintenance. Instead, that money can be spent on projects that improve and enhance our transportation infrastructure such as bike lanes, sidewalks and technology to boost traffic flow.

Smart Choices You Can Make Right Now Whether you’re heading to school, commuting to work or running errands, small changes in how you travel can save money and reduce your impact. Utilize our expansive trail system to run your errands or commute to work. Photo by City of Issaquah

COMMUNITY CONNECT | FALL 2025

Students & Families: Ride the school bus, play Bus Bingo, walk, ride your bike or carpool with friends.

Metro Flex makes getting around easy, plus kids and teens ride for free.Photo by City of Issaquah

Youth 18 & Under: Ride most transit services for free with the Youth Transit Pass or hop on MetroFlex within Issaquah and Sammamish at no cost. College Students: Many schools offer discounted ORCA cards. Check MyORCA.com for details. Seniors & Riders with Disabilities: Reduced fares are available through ORCA LIFT and the Senior Regional Reduced Fare Permit. Working Adults: Join Switch Your Trips to track commutes and win prizes, explore employer commute incentives, or save costs with Vanpool, Vanshare or MetroFlex ondemand rides.

The City’s Role: Making Sustainable Travel Easier The City of Issaquah continues to invest in: • EV charging infrastructure • Bike lanes and safety improvements • Better transit access • Pedestrian safety projects • MetroFlex and services that support short trips throughout the community Plus, state and city programs offer occasional incentives like e-bike rebates or transit discounts to help make the switch even easier.

Let’s Move Toward a Cleaner Future The climate crisis requires all of us— residents, businesses, city staff and leaders—to take action. By rethinking how we move through our community, we can create a cleaner and healthier Issaquah for generations to come. Every trip matters. Let’s make them count.

Empowering Local Entrepreneurs for Long-Term Success

JACK PEDLOW Economic Development Coordinator, City of Issaquah

The City of Issaquah’s Economic Development team is here to help your business thrive. Guided by the priorities outlined in the Economic Development Action Plan, our mission is to foster a vibrant and resilient local economy—one where businesses of all sizes can grow and succeed. Whether you have an established business or are starting to debate a new one, we invite you to take advantage of our programs, events and resources designed to connect you with opportunities, strengthen your network and support your goals.

Business Visits: Connecting Directly With You

•C oworking Sessions: Winter gatherings to collaborate and share ideas.

One of the most effective ways for us to understand and support your business is through an in-person visit. During these visits, we learn about your experiences in Issaquah, discuss any challenges you may be facing and share resources that could benefit you.

•W orkshops: Join us for a Social Media Marketing Workshop in November, with more events planned into 2026.

If you’d like to schedule a business visit—or simply reach out with questions, ideas or feedback—contact our team at ED@Issaquahwa.gov. We welcome the opportunity to connect.

Programs & Events Through Startup425 Issaquah is proud to be a member community of Startup425, a regional partnership offering entrepreneurial programs to residents and businesses in Issaquah, Bothell, Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond and Renton. Highlights include: •S tartup Accelerator Program: Two annual cohorts designed to help entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. •N etworking Walks: Monthly events in the warmer months, perfect for building connections.

The city’s Homegrown Retail program gives Issaquah-based home and online retailers the chance to sell their goods at the Issaquah Farmers Market. Photo by City of Issaquah

Learn more and find the full event schedule at Startup425.org.

Homegrown Retail at the Farmers Market In partnership with Parks and Community Services, our Homegrown Retail program gives Issaquah-based home and online retailers a free opportunity to sell their goods at the Issaquah Farmers Market. Two local retailers are featured each May and September, helping them gain exposure, connect with customers and grow their brand. If you’re interested in participating in future seasons, reach out to the Economic Development team to join our update list for the 2026 program.

Here to Help Your Business Succeed From one-on-one visits to regional programs and special initiatives, the Economic Development team is committed to ensuring Issaquah remains a place where businesses flourish. We look forward to partnering with you and supporting your journey every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at ED@issaquahwa.gov.

Wine Me Up, a new business in Gilman Village, recently opened its doors. Photo by City of Issaquah

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Is Your Family Ready to Evacuate Safely? You just learned that you need to evacuate from a wildfire. What do you grab? What’s your plan? The tragic Los Angeles wildfires earlier this year claimed the lives of 29 people and thousands of structures. Events like this may have you wondering what you can do to prepare your family for wildfire.

JARED SCHNEIDER Emergency Manager, Summers are getting hotter and drier in City of Issaquah the historically “too-wet-to-burn” Pacific Northwest. Under the right climatic conditions, Issaquah could experience an impactful wildfire. We have two types of wildfire scenarios in Issaquah. The first are smaller, localized fires that can occur in a variety of conditions. These fires are kept small by response efforts and may tend to smolder for some time due to wet undergrowth and challenging conditions like steep elevations that impede access by firefighters.

The other fire scenario, large and fast-moving, requires the right blend of climatic scenarios—dry fuels and strong east winds that bring low humidity. Wind, in particular, is a critical factor that turns a routine wildfire into a fast-moving, destructive and deadly event. The 2017 Tubbs Fire, 2018 Camp Fire and 2023 Maui Wildfire were all characterized by high winds. Wildfires may necessitate evacuations to protect you and your family. This year, Issaquah completed a wildfire evacuation study estimating how long it would take 90% of residents to evacuate each neighborhood. The table below shows midday summer estimates. Lake

Sammamish

PROVIDENCE Time to Evacuate 90% of POINT Community (Hours)

Neighborhood

KE SH

All Neighborhoods