Latest News
December 23, 2025
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Bellevue Chamber Renews Opposition to State Payroll Tax with Seattle Exemption: The Bellevue Chamber of Commerce has reiterated its opposition to a proposed statewide payroll tax, citing concerns over a legislative plan that would exempt businesses already paying Seattle’s JumpStart tax. Under this proposal, Seattle employers would be spared from the new state tax, while companies in Bellevue and other cities would be required to pay. Chamber leaders argue this would shift the tax burden to non-Seattle businesses. Supporters of the exemption say it protects Seattle firms from added costs. (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Dec 23)
December 17, 2025
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Workshop in Woodinville Introduces Furoshiki Gift-Wrapping Traditions: Local residents participated in a workshop at the Woodinville Library focused on Furoshiki, a traditional Japanese method of wrapping gifts using reusable cloth. The event, held in partnership with the Seattle Consulate-General of Japan and the King County Library System, aimed to promote eco-friendly alternatives for gift wrapping. Attendees learned about the cultural significance and practical techniques of this sustainable practice. The session reflected growing interest in environmentally conscious traditions. (Source: Kirkland Reporter on Dec 17)
December 16, 2025
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Pagliacci Pizza Unveils New Location in Old Town Redmond: Pagliacci Pizza has launched its newest pizzeria in Old Town Redmond, revitalizing the corner near the light rail station with its ninth Eastside outlet. The renovated former gas station at 16311 Redmond Way features a design inspired by the Pacific Northwest and Redmond's historic core, offering indoor dining, takeout, and expanded delivery for area residents. The site now includes enhanced landscaping, outdoor seating, and large windows overlooking the dining room. The opening brings additional dining options to Redmond's community. (Source: Redmond Neighborhood Blog on Dec 16)
December 15, 2025
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Man Wounded by Bellevue Police After Allegedly Making False Emergency Call: A man is receiving treatment at Harborview Medical Center after being shot by a Bellevue police officer, according to prosecutors. Authorities report the man allegedly called 911 to lure officers to the scene under false pretenses. He is now in custody and faces assault charges. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about police response and misuse of emergency services. (Source: The Seattle Times on Dec 15)
December 9, 2025
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Persian-Inspired Skincare Brand T Bazi Now Available at Bellevue Locations: A new skincare line called T Bazi, founded by Bellevue resident Nina Hajian, is now being sold at Viktorya Wellness, Cadell Laser Clinic, and Pure Aesthetics in Bellevue. Drawing on Persian traditions, the products incorporate pomegranate, Persian rose, and cardamom as key ingredients. Hajian developed the brand after personal health challenges led her to research botanical formulas rooted in Persian culture. T Bazi aims to bring clean, research-backed products to the local beauty market. (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Dec 9)
December 8, 2025
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Bellevue Recognized as Top Sustainable and Scenic City for 2026 by Good Housekeeping: Bellevue has been honored as the Best Sustainable and Scenic City for 2026 by the Good Housekeeping Travel Awards. The recognition highlights the city's commitment to sustainability, its extensive network of over 100 parks, and the presence of an all-electric shuttle service within downtown. Evaluators noted Bellevue’s recreational opportunities, diverse cultural attractions, and vibrant dining scene as standout features. The award underscores the city's appeal both as an environmentally conscious and visually attractive destination. (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Dec 8)
December 2, 2025
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King County Sues Trump Administration Over Federal Housing Grant Restrictions: King County, along with six other local governments and four nonprofit organizations, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration regarding recent federal housing policy changes. The legal action challenges restrictions to the Continuum of Care grant program, which funds permanent supportive housing and services for people experiencing homelessness. Local officials warn that federal grant renewals are at risk, potentially affecting housing support for thousands of households in the region. The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for Rhode Island. (Source: Redmond Neighborhood Blog on Dec 2)
November 26, 2025
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EvergreenHealth and Seattle Children's Partner to Expand Pediatric Care in Kirkland: EvergreenHealth Medical Center in Kirkland and Seattle Children's have entered into a strategic affiliation focused on expanding neonatal and pediatric specialty care services for families on the Eastside. As of July 1, 2025, pediatric specialists from Seattle Children's, including cardiologists, neurologists, and surgeons, are now providing care at the EvergreenHealth facility. Officials say additional pediatric specialty services will be introduced over time. The partnership aims to improve access to specialized care within the local community. (Source: Redmond Neighborhood Blog on Nov 26)
November 24, 2025
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EvergreenHealth Leaders Discuss Hospital Challenges With State Legislators: Executives from EvergreenHealth recently met with several Washington state legislators at their Kirkland campus as part of preparations for the upcoming legislative session. The discussions focused on the hospital's role as a public health provider and outlined ongoing financial pressures stemming from updates to state and federal policies. Hospital leaders emphasized the importance of community investment and highlighted new partnerships to strengthen care delivery on the Eastside. These conversations aim to ensure continued support from lawmakers. (Source: Redmond Neighborhood Blog on Nov 24)
November 21, 2025
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Bellevue Sees Above-Average Influx of New Residents Amid National Moving Slowdown: While residential mobility in the United States has reached its lowest point since tracking began in 1948, Bellevue, Washington, continues to experience a strong influx of new residents. In 2024, 15% of Bellevue residents moved, surpassing the national rate of 11%. Many newcomers are renters, and a notable portion, over 7,000, arrived from out of state. Washington as a whole also sees higher mobility than most other states, indicating ongoing demographic activity in the region. (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Nov 21)
November 18, 2025
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Providence Swedish Announces Nearly 300 Job Cuts Across Multiple Hospital Locations: Providence Swedish plans to cut almost 300 jobs at its hospitals in First Hill, Cherry Hill, Ballard, and Issaquah, along with nearby outpatient clinics. The health system's workforce reduction will impact both clinical and non-clinical roles in these Seattle and Eastside communities. Hospital representatives cited organizational restructuring as the reason for the decision. The affected employees are expected to receive support during the transition period. (Source: The Seattle Times on Nov 18)
October 30, 2025
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Suggestions for Lesser-Known Horror Films to Watch This Halloween: A selection of underrated horror films has been recommended for Halloween, with storylines set in locations ranging from Seattle to rural Japan. The list highlights movies that may have been overlooked by mainstream audiences but are well-suited for a chilling night in. These films offer a variety of cinematic experiences ideal for those seeking something different this Halloween season. The recommendations aim to add suspense and intrigue to holiday viewing plans. (Source: Redmond Reporter on Oct 30)
October 29, 2025
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Bellevue Invites Local Businesses to Plan 2026 World Cup Events: Bellevue is reaching out to local businesses, artists, and organizations to participate in community events during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. An informational meeting will be held at City Hall on October 22 to discuss opportunities for hosting themed activities along the 2 Line corridor. Grants and in (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Oct 10)
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McKnight Middle School Student Recognized as Seattle Police 'Chief for a Day': Ino Reyes Jr., a student at McKnight Middle School in Renton, was recently selected for the Seattle Police Department's 'Chief for a Day' program. His participation followed the remission of his leukemia, which was also recognized during the Seafair Torchlight Parade where he was honored as a VIP. The event aims to bring joy to children who have overcome serious illnesses while highlighting community support. Reyes' recognition marks a proud moment for both his school and the local community. (Source: Renton Reporter on Sep 13)
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Downtown Bellevue Schedules Range of Halloween Events on October 31: Downtown Bellevue will offer an array of Halloween activities for all ages on October 31. Reality Break Escapes features themed escape rooms available through midnight, challenging groups with different adventures. Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi will host a Gothic Glam party with specialty drinks, music, and photo opportunities that evening. Forum Social House is set to present an Angels and Demons party, including costume contests and themed entertainment. (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Oct 27)
October 21, 2025
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Medspa of Seattle Closes One88 Tower Location in Downtown Bellevue: Medspa of Seattle, previously operating as Sevid Beauty, has closed its business at the One88 condominium tower in downtown Bellevue. The spa, which opened in early 2022 and rebranded in mid-2024 to focus on aesthetic treatments, had been located at 170 Bellevue Way NE. No information on relocation, (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Oct 21)
October 16, 2025
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Bellevue Selects Developer for Affordable Housing Project in Wilburton by 2030: Bellevue officials have chosen Bellwether Housing to develop a mixed-use affordable housing project on city-owned land in the Wilburton Transit-Oriented Development District. The plan includes at least 127 affordable homes for households earning 30% to 80% of area median income, along with community (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Oct 16)
October 14, 2025
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Paris Baguette to Open Bakery at Salesforce Tower in Downtown Bellevue: Paris Baguette, an international bakery-café chain, is set to open a new location at 929 108th Avenue Northeast in Downtown Bellevue, occupying the former Sam’s Tavern space in the Salesforce Tower. The bakery will offer a variety of breads, pastries, cakes, and donuts, expanding local dining and sn (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Oct 14)
October 12, 2025
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King County Introduces Hotline for Reporting Hate Crimes and Bias Incidents: King County has established a new hotline operated by Crisis Connections to allow residents to confidentially report hate crimes and bias incidents. The service aims to connect callers with support resources and, if desired, assist with reporting incidents to law enforcement. The hotline is part of (Source: Redmond Neighborhood Blog on Oct 9)
October 10, 2025
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Diwali Celebrations at Bellevue Square Feature Cultural Displays and Activities: Bellevue Square is hosting a week of Diwali festivities from October 10 to 19, including cultural displays, live performances, and family activities. The event highlights traditional Indian art, such as rangoli, and offers craft kits and photo opportunities for visitors. The celebration concludes on (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Oct 10)
October 8, 2025
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Bellevue Restaurants Join Seattle Restaurant Week With Special Menus: Several Bellevue dining establishments will participate in Seattle Restaurant Week from October 26 to November 8, offering fixed-price menus at various price points. The event, organized by the Seattle Good Business Network, aims to support local restaurants and highlight diverse cuisine options in (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Oct 8)
October 3, 2025
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Bellevue Jazz & Blues Music Series Scheduled for October 8–12 Downtown: The Bellevue Jazz & Blues Music Series is set to return to downtown Bellevue from October 8 to 12, 2025. The event will feature performances by both national and local jazz and blues artists across several venues. Notable acts include Lee Oskar and Friends on October 10 and the Dee Daniels Quartet, (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Oct 3)
September 29, 2025
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Snapdoodle Toys to Launch Temporary Store at Bellevue Square This Fall: Snapdoodle Toys & Games will open a seasonal pop-up shop at Bellevue Square from October through January, located on the shopping center's second floor near Macy’s. The move comes as the retailer prepares to close its Bellevue North Plaza location, which will be redeveloped for a mixed-use project. (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Sep 29)
September 25, 2025
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Medina Waterfront Estate and Bellevue Towers Condo Listed as Combined Offering: A newly built waterfront estate in Medina and a high-rise condominium at Bellevue Towers are being marketed together. The Medina property, completed in 2024, features over 12,000 square feet, six bedrooms, and extensive amenities including a dock and lake views. The combined listing is situated in a (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Sep 25)
September 19, 2025
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Park Metro Apartments in Bellevue Acquired for $33 Million: The Sobrato Organization has bought the Park Metro Apartments at 11101 NE 12th Street in Bellevue for $33 million. The property features 78 residential units, a retail space currently leased to a float therapy center, and parking for 100 vehicles. The building is fully leased and offers amenities, a (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Sep 19)
September 16, 2025
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King County Executive Candidates to Discuss Mental Health Policy in Online Forum: An online forum featuring King County executive candidates Claudia Balducci and Girmay Zahilay will focus on mental health policy, including expansion of local services and oversight issues. The event, hosted by The Seattle Times and the League of Women Voters, is scheduled for October 9 and will be (Source: Redmond Neighborhood Blog on Sep 16)
September 13, 2025
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Seattle Files Lawsuit Against Renton and Auburn Gun Shops Over Glock Sales: The City of Seattle has initiated legal action against gun retailers in Renton and Auburn, claiming the stores are involved in selling Glock pistols that are later modified into automatic weapons. The lawsuit alleges these sales contribute to illegal firearm conversions in the region. (Source: Renton Reporter on Sep 13)
September 12, 2025
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Weekend Closures Planned for I-405 and I-90 Near Bellevue and Issaquah: Drivers in the Seattle area should expect delays this weekend as southbound I-405 between Bellevue and Renton will be closed. Additionally, westbound I-90 in Issaquah will be reduced to a single lane, affecting local and regional traffic flow. (Source: The Seattle Times on Sep 12)