Issaquah

SPECIAL SECTION OF THE ISSAQUAH PRESS

SALMON-CENTRIC THEME PERMEATES ISSAQUAHHIGHS AND LOWS OF HIKING IN THE ISSAQUAH ALPSLAKE SAMMAMISH STATE PARK READIES FOR A FACELIFT

LIVINGVISITORS

GUIDE2013

2

3

4

PUBLISHERDeborah Berto

MANAGING EDITORKathleen R. Merrill

WRITERSDan AznoffEunbi Cho

Peter ClarkChristina Corrales-Toy

Joe GroveDavid Hayes

Megg JoostenKevin Lee

Katherine LohMichele Mihalovich

PHOTOGRAPHERGreg Farrar

PAGE DESIGNDavid Hayes

COVER DESIGNDona Mokin

COVER PHOTODrew McNabb

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Nathan Laursen

ADVERTISING STAFFMichelle Comeau

Deanna JessCarolyn TrujilloSyrianah Vance

PRODUCTION Breann Getty

Dona Mokin

PRINTINGRotary Offset Press

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF

P.O. Box 1328Issaquah, WA 98027

Phone: 392-6434Fax: 392-1695

www.issaquahpress.com

HIKING PAGE 6Discover adventures, exercise, solitude in the Issaquah Alps.

PICNICKING PAGE 12Pack some goodies in your basket and head to a city park.

ARTS & MUSIC PAGE 14Should I choose arts or music? Why not both?

VISITOR’S CENTER PAGE 16Got questions? Get answers and tourist tips, too.

LODGING PAGE 17Hotels, B&Bs and treehouses, oh my!

LAKE SAMMAMISH STATE PARK PAGE 18Park prepares for its centennial and a facelift.

FISHING PAGE 24Find the best places to put your line in the water.

BOATING PAGE 26Get out on the water, whatever your craft.

Issaquah

LIVINGINSIDE STAFF

SWIMMING PAGE 28The water is fine in local lakes.

BICYCLING PAGE 30Find fun on two wheels any time of year.

COUGAR MOUNTAIN ZOO PAGE 32Get close to exotic animals right in your back yard.

PARAGLIDING PAGE 34Be a part of the “Issaquah Air Force.”

FARMERS MARKET PAGE 36Fresh food and family fun await you all summer.

SUMMER CALENDAR PAGE 38

VILLAGE THEATRE PAGE 41Come see a high-end hometown production.

SALMON-CENTRIC ISSAQUAH PAGE 42There’s something fishy about “salmon city.”

MUSEUMS PAGE 46Step back in time at town hall, depot and jail.

VISITORS GUIDE 2013

5

By Greg Farrar

Traffic stops at North Front Street North as the restored Issaquah Valley Trolley makes its way to the Train Depot barn. It is hoped the trolley will return the summer of 2013.

6

6

HIKING The path to discovery leads up an Issaquah Alps woodland trail

7

BY PETER CLARK

More than anything else, Issaquah is known for picturesque surround-ings that not only provide beautiful landscapes, but also an escape into a lush wilderness.

This is made easier by the mul-titude of well-kept trails that wind around the three “Alps” of Tiger, Squak and Cougar mountains. Hiking is extensively available from a variety

of locations that highlight many gor-geous attractions and vistas. There are opportunities for all ages and skill levels to experience the sights that envelope Issaquah.

Issaquah’s Open Space Steward Matt Mechler helped break down the myriad trails into suggestions for different skill levels. This way, you should easily recognize what would be appropriate for personal adven-tures on the mountains.

What to knowLearn more about the Issaquah

Alps Trails Club, and local hikes and other trails events, at http://iatc.riminisoftware.com.

q Cougar Mountain visi-tors can park off of Lakemont Boulevard Southeast, Clay Pit Road, Renton Issaquah Road Southeast and at the end of Southeast Cougar Mountain Drive, which takes you to the Anti-Aircraft peak trailhead and Radar Park.

q Squak Mountain visitors can park off Issaquah Hobart Road Southeast at the beginning of the Chirico Trail or off Southeast May Valley Road.

q Tiger Mountain visitors mostly park at the High Point parking lot. Take the High Point exit 20 on Interstate 90 east and heading west on Southeast 79th Street to the parking lot. Tradition Lake is within easy reach. Additionally, visitors can park off Issaquah Hobart Road where the many paraglider pilots head up to Poo Poo Point.

q A Discovery Pass is needed to park within park boundaries and can be purchased at regional offices or at discoverpasswa.gov.

By Peter Clark

Signage at Radar Park on Cougar Mountain gives a history of the anti-air armaments that were installed on the site during the Cold War.

By Peter Clark

Cassidy Follins makes her way up a fallen log amid trails on the top of Cougar Mountain. Many different terrains and attractions can be found while hiking in the backwoods.

8

Taking it easy

For those wanting an easy, laid-back stroll through the beautiful regions or beginning hikers looking to develop their skills, Mechler rec-ommends the trail around Tradition Lake on Tiger Mountain. A scenic route winds its way around the serene lake on a flat, easily navigable stretch of forest. Along the pathways, a boardwalk takes you around the thick trees, occasionally jutting out to give a clear view across the stretch of the mountain’s lake. There are benches and convenient points along the way for rest that allows for a relaxing hike.

“It’s a good starting point for basically any hike,” Mechler said. “Another really good trail for families is the Swamp Trail.”

The Swamp Trail, adjacent to Tradition Lake, curves around a wetter and mossier part of the mountain with periodical signs that tell a story of a raccoon’s adven-tures on the same path. Along the green, flat guided wetland way, Mechler said kids enjoy reading the story.

The Swamp Trail is also near a

number of other easily treaded hikes like the Bus Trail, which features an old rusted school bus. Close by is the Big Tree Trail as well, where you can glimpse some lovely vistas under-neath towering Douglas firs. It curves along toward a large slope of the mountain and offers impressive views

of nature. Mechler said that these connected

trails around Tradition Lake make for an easy and enjoyable day of explora-tion on Tiger Mountain.

“These are all flat and easy to do,” he said, suggesting that hik-ers get maps from the city’s Parks &

By Christopher Huber

Issaquah resident Joann Reider and Ranger, a Rocky Mountain horse, lead the way down a path on Squak Moun-tain on an equestrian-approved trail.

9

With your new home comes new responsibilities like protecting your new investment with the right amount of homeowners insurance. That’s where I can help.Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®CALL ME TODAY.

Kathy Johnson, Agent240 NW Gilman BlvdIssaquah, WA 98027Bus: 425-392-2224

kathy.johnson.b73d@statefarm.com

317 NW Gilman Ave., #5 • Issaquah, WAorders@stevesdoughnuts.com

7730 Center Blvd, Suite D, Snoqualmie, WA

Your D ughnut Destination!

Every 6th doughnut

FREE!

Come in and enjoy a handmade doughnut,

always fresh, always delicious!

Recreation Department. “When you get the maps, you can do a whole bunch of loops on the mountain.”

Kiosks and trail maps are also sta-tioned on various paths.

Cougar Mountain also offers beginner trails along the Coyote Creek Trail or along Radar Park. It is

an intriguing historical site as well as a beautiful hike.

Radar Park was the site of intercep-tive missile silos during the Cold War. While few signs of the defensive base remain, signs and descriptive maps tell a neat tale of the peak’s history. Parking adjacent to the park offers

a wide field to take animals into the sunshine.

Increased elevation, solitude

For those looking for a more medi-um hiking experience that involves increases in elevation and less flat-tened trails that take you deeper into the wilderness, Mechler recom-mends many of the trails on Squak Mountain.

Although Squak Mountain is not as populated as the other two alps, Mechler said that is a benefit.

“Squak doesn’t have as many good views, but it’s less crowded,” he said. “There are some neat areas up there.”

Because of that, he said that the region works well for hikers seek-ing a little more of a challenge. The Squak Mountain access trail begins at the end of Sunrise Place Southeast and provides an excellent entry onto other mountain paths.

Along state Route 900, there are also many entrances into Squak Mountain State Park. With multiple trailheads along all sides, it is possible to explore miles of trails at ease on

By Greg Farrar

Morning sunshine peeks through the forest canopy to paint one of the tree trunks along a Squak Mountain trail, near Squak Mountain Loop Southwest.

10

Bringing You

Generations of

Smiles

Voted Best Dentist in

Issaquah & Seattle MET Magazine

Mark Germack, DDS450 NW Gilman Blvd, Suite 103425-392-7541 Issaquah www.drgermack.com

Three generations of the Finkelstein Family

uncrowded paths. Further trips near the top also offer spectacular views of the south Rainier Valley.

Mechler also said that the talus rocks on Tiger Mountain provide another great medium-difficulty hike. It is also accessible from Tradition Lake Trail. A well-known attraction by many guides and journals, the talus rocks of Tiger Mountain are a unique natural attraction jutting out from the ground, which has become a natural habitat all its own.

Cougar Mountain also offers a number of sights for a more challeng-ing hike. The Coal Creek Falls Trail snakes around and links up with a number of other attractions. Striking green canopies line the paths along the way, providing delicious shade against the summer heat.

Rougher terrain, adventures

There are a number of options for the more advanced hikers on the three mountains. Long stretches of heightened escalation on rough ter-rain afford skillful adventurers great exercise and amazing views for miles around.

Mechler recommends hiking to

the peak of Tiger Mountain from the Tiger Mountain Trail. He notes that the Seattle Seahawks use it for training. Making the long hike to the top affords numerous chances to glimpse the animals that live in the Issaquah Alps. With bridges over waterfalls and winding around

dynamic growth, the 16-mile round trip is difficult and extremely reward-ing.

Mechler also suggests trekking up to Poo Poo Point on Tiger Mountain from the high school trail. There is a small parking lot off Second Avenue Southeast right before it merges with

By Christopher Huber

Sturdy foot bridges are maintained and replaced to keep trails such as this on Tiger Mountain accessible throughout the Issaquah Alps.

11

Wouldn’t you rather say it came from Nault Jewelers?Wouldn’t you rather say it came from Nault Jewelers?

Town & Country Square 1175 NW Gilman Blvd.

Suite B-4, Issaquah (425) 391-9270

Town & Country Square 1175 NW Gilman Blvd.

Suite B-4, Issaquah (425) 391-9270

Best of Issaquah16 consecutive years! 1996-2012

Best of Issaquah16 consecutive years! 1996-2012

Front Street South that puts you at the start of the path. The trail follows around Issaquah High School and heads up the side of Tiger Mountain. Poo Poo Point is the launching area for the many hang glider enthusiasts in the area and gives amazing views of the land below.

Additionally, each of the three mountains have trails that lead to their peaks or near them, giving an extended challenge from many points on the mountains.

For those looking for the most strenuous exercise in the Issaquah Alps, all of the paths make fantastic

trail running courses. The Adventure Trail, also on Tiger Mountain, pro-vides an excellent path through rough terrain, offering a truly exciting journey along root-strewn, uneven forest floor.

Safety first

Mechler cautions safety on any hike that you might take. The Issaquah Alps offer fantastic experi-ences in nature, but they can also be treacherous and are full of wild-life. He said hikers should always have access to the 10 essentials: navigation (map and compass), sun protection (sunglasses and sun-screen), insulation (extra clothing), illumination (headlamp/flashlight), first-aid supplies, fire (waterproof matches/lighter/candles), repair kit and tools, nutrition (extra food), hydration (extra water) and emer-gency shelter.

Perhaps most important is the need to communicate with someone else about your hike.

“It’s important to let people know where you are going,” Mechler said. “So if something does happen, you can let someone know.”

By Christopher Huber

Douglas fir trees mature and grow along a Tiger Mountain trail, after the timber industry clearcut most of the ancient forests at the turn of the last century.

Going on a picnic is a great way to enjoy any lazy afternoon. Issaquah offers more than a dozen parks with perks for everyone.

“It’s a great place to visit because we have great mountain views and lots of activities with the creek and Lake Sammamish,” said Matt Mechler, open space steward for the city. “They can watch the paragliders on a good day, and we have a great trail system, both urban trails and regular hiking trails.”

Visitors who are looking for a pic-nic shelter for those rainy picnicking days can visit Gibson Park, Central Park, Tibbetts Valley Park and the new Confluence Park, which is opening in early July. Picnic shel-ters are available to rent, and are otherwise available on a first-come,

first-served basis. The parks with shelters are also ideal for families with young children.

“These shelters are in wonderful parks with wonderful opportuni-ties,” said Ross Hoover, recreation supervisor. “There are baseball fields and playgrounds so you can go to one spot and have a picnic, and it’s a great spot to have your kids play, too.”

Veterans Memorial Field, Depot Park, Squak Valley Park and Grand View Park not only have picnic tables but also mountain views, Mechler said.

None of the Issaquah parks have community grills, but Mechler said visitors can bring their own. The dumping of charcoal and grease is not allowed, but a gas grill is fine to use.

“If you’re at a facility that doesn’t have trash cans, it’s pack it in, pack it out,” said Mechler, adding that most

parks do have trash cans.The parks that don’t have picnic

tables do have other amenities, Mechler said. Timberlake Park has beach access to Lake Sammamish, and Berntsen Park is along the creek.

“Lake Tradition is more of a hik-ing trail area, if you’re looking to get out in the woods and have lunch,” Mechler said. “There are some family friendly hikes, if you have kids and want to take a short family walk.”

On the plateau, Pine Lake Park and Beaver Lake Park both have picnic shelters, and Pine Lake Park also has a roped-off swimming area. Pine Lake has a boat launch (for smaller crafts), baseball field and a basketball court as well.

In summer, you can park down-town and have access to a lot of trails, as well as the local salmon hatchery.

12

BY MEGG JOOSTEN

Nearby parks are the perfect spot

Find your parkq Beaver Lake Park, Southeast 24th Street at 244th Avenue Southeastq Berntsen Park, 810 Fourth Ave. N.W.q Centennial Park, Front Street North and Rainier Boulevard Central Park, 1907 Park Drive N.E.q Depot Park, 2 E. Sunset Way Gibson Park, 105 Newport Way S.W.q Grand View Park, 2306 N.E. Natalie Wayq Pine Lake Park, 228th Ave. S.E. at Southeast 24th Streetq Squak Valley Park, 10319 Issaquah-Hobart Road S.E.q Tibbetts Valley Park, 965 12th Ave. N.W.q Timberlake Park, 4500 W. Lake Sammamish Parkway S.E.q Veteran’s Memorial Field, 140 E. Sunset Wayq Rent a picnic shelter area at www.issaquahwa.gov/picnic- shelters.

Pack a picnic!

12

PICNICKING

By Greg Farrar

Lake Sammamish State Park is one of many perfect picnic spots throughout the greater Issaquah area.

13

(425) 392-NUDE • (425) 392-6833 www.fraternitysnoqualmie.com

Tiger Mountain Issaquah

1st time visitors receiveFREE 1 day membership! 

1st time visitors during Bare Buns Fun Run

July 14th &Nudestock August 24th

receive voucher for next visit FREE

Family Nudist Park

*Couples, families & singles are welcome*Kids welcome with their parents.

* Photo ID required.

32610 NE 32nd StreetCarnation, Washington 98014

(425) 333-4135www.remlingerfarms.com

Come and enjoy total family fun!

Country Fair Family Fun Pack, Market, Restaurant, Gift Shop, Festival, U-Pick Fields, Birthday Parties, Wine Dinner

Series, Corp. Events, Weddings & More.Golf Digest “Best Places to Play”

in 2004 and 2008

Scenic 18 hole public golf coursein Fall City, Washington

Must bring ad in to redeem.Special Expires June 30, 2014

4 CAN PLAY FOR THE PRICE OF 3

14

of The Monkees, and Ray Dorset, front man for Mungo Jerry.

Not content with just setting the music lineups for Issaquah’s annual festival, Harris saw an opportunity 17 years ago that is now commonplace throughout the region.

When the community center was built, Harris was friends with its event organizers.

“I suggested why not put on con-certs out front,” he said.

The idea — Concerts on the Green — was green-lighted as long as Harris also took charge of funding costs. Over the years, he’s tried to bring in the best bands he can find, not just bar bands. Issaquah becomes a music destination on Tuesday nights.

“We became a leader in eve-ning concerts. There were no other concerts around, but now they’ve popped up all over,” he said. “It’s really helped bring a lot to the com-munity.”

While many music venues and schools have also popped up in downtown Issaquah, Karen Donovan, of the Downtown Issaquah Association, points out that so have the arts venues and schools. The event created in 2002 to link them all together was ArtWalk.

Held the first Friday of each month June through September, ArtWalk features artists displaying their cre-ations while demonstrating their techniques, spread out among many venues in downtown Issaquah. In between the venues, visitors enjoy live music, shopping and dining options. Last year, Donovan estimates more than 10,000 people took part in ArtWalk last year.

“The community loves it,” she said. “Between the volunteers and participants and attendees, it brings everybody together as a community.”

Then, to attract the crowd miss-ing out on ArtWalk, the associa-

Issaquah has developed a reputa-tion throughout the region. However, it depends upon who you ask which is it more renowned as — a music town or an arts destination.

Ask David Harris and it’s defi-nitely a music town. Just check his Facebook page where he regularly makes the boast. As owner of Hts Audio & Concert Production, Harris has been cultivating the music scene in Issaquah for 30 years.

“For such a small town, the music we get here has a number of bands that are certainly not rubbish,” Harris said.

Through his contacts in the music industry, Harris has been luring region-al acts to perform at Salmon Days for 30 years. In addition, he’s convinced quite a few recognizable names to per-form in Issaquah, including Peter Tork,

14

ARTS & MUSIC

BY DAVID HAYES

Issaquah is equal parts music town, arts destination

Shelley and the Curves performs

for a packed audience at

the Issaquah Community

Center, during a Concert on the

Green show.

By Greg Farrar

tion recently introduced WineWalk. By combining Issaquah’s already huge art element and music scene, Donovan said, with the introduction of local wineries, the association has succeeded in bringing in a different audience than ArtWalk.

“It’s been great,” she added.So, whether you’re looking

for sounds to tap your toes to or sights to let your eyes wander over, there’s something in the downtown Issaquah arts and music scene for you. Here’s a look at the year’s high-lights offered to entice residents and visitors alike.

ArtWalkThe annual downtown ArtWalk is

now in its 12th season and runs the first Friday of each month through Sept. 6. The event invites the com-munity to experience in one big package the opportunity to meet local business owners, enjoy live music, watch artists in action, and shop and dine downtown.

Farmers marketEvery year, the Issaquah Farmers

Market season runs from April to October, rain or shine, on Saturdays at Pickering Barn. While shopping for the latest in freshest produce, baked goods and cut flowers, be sure to stop by the weekly entertainment, indoors and outside.

Chocolate, Wine & All That Jazz

Combine three of the best things in life with the annual Chocolate, Wine & All That Jazz on July 25. While sampling a variety of foods and wines from local restaurants and wineries, listen to the sounds of live jazz musicians at Boehm’s Candies. Purchase tickets at www.issaquahchamber.com/schedule/event/ chocolate-wine-and-all-that-jazz.

Concerts on the GreenTuesday evenings in July and

August features the best of regional acts outside the community center, performing musical genres for every-one, from big band to 80s hair rock and Latin fusion to industrialized country.

Salmon DaysThe summer music scene wraps

up during the year’s biggest event

in Issaquah — Salmon Days. On the first weekend in October, after get-ting your fill of food and perusing the wares of arts and crafts ven-dors, pull up a chair to one of the four stages featuring local talent, regional headliners and everything in between.

Live musicThroughout the year, be sure to

check The Issaquah Press calendar to schedule a night out on the town, and discover music at several ven-ues. Don’t miss Tribute Tuesdays at Amante, the rotating regulars at Vino Bella and performers at Pogacha.

15

By Greg Farrar

Pedestrians pause to look at art displayed in at the Up Front art gallery sidewalk on Front Street North during an ArtWalk, held each first Friday of the month May through September.

By Greg Farrar

Chuck Jensen, an instructor at artbyfire and a glass blower for more than 10 years, rolls out a new piece in the gallery’s studio on Front Street, giving the crowd at ArtWalk a show.

16

Open Monday to Saturdaywith evening appointments available

Complimentary Teeth Whitening with new patient exam, cleaning & xrays

22525 SE 64th Place • Suite 170

425.837.0383www.apexdentalcare.netEnvironmentally friendly office

Gentle personal care using the latest technology

Dr. Baptista Kwok DDS • Dr. James Ma DDS Dr. Kiki Chow • Dr. Ann Hua

Dental Careavailable

when you are

“walking boss” for the Seattle Lake Shore and Eastern Railroad, had a heart attack and died in 1910. That same year, Caroline opened the home as a hunting lodge for folks coming by to fish, enjoy the beach and her “home-cooked meals.” Caroline died in 1932, and for decades various rela-tives lived in the home.

Beginning in the 1980s, the home was owned by many different enti-ties, and was moved to Issaquah, to its current resting place at 155 N.W. Gilman Blvd.

Rupe said the visitor center aver-ages about 10,000 contacts a year, in person or through emails and phone calls.

“We provide hiking information on the local area hikes, informa-tion on things to see and do in Issaquah, local area maps, things to see and do in the surrounding

area — including wineries, Mount St. Helens, Mount Rainier, local accommodations, local area restau-rant information, state maps and Issaquah area postcards for pur-chase and Salmon Days wear for purchase,” she said. “We also have transportation schedules — both bus and ferry. If we don’t have the answer our visitors need, we find the answer for them.”

The visitor center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Call 425-392-7024 or email tourism@issaquah-chamber.com for information.

The Issaquah Chamber of Commerce’s Visitor’s Information Center is tucked among trees on Gilman Boulevard, surrounded by pink roses and rhododendrons.

Mary Ann Rupe, coordinator for the center, said visitors have been dropping by for all things Issaquah since the center opened in the his-toric Alexander House in October 1989.

The two-story yellow Victorian home, trimmed in white, makes the stop worthwhile, even if you’re not focusing on what to do and where to go in Issaquah.

Caroline and Thomas Alexander built the house on the shore of Lake Sammamish in 1902. Thomas, a

16

VISITORS CENTER

BY MICHELE MIHALOVICH

Visitor’s center offers tourist tips

By Greg Farrar

Alexander House, at 155 N.W. Gilman Blvd, is home to the Issaquah Chamber of Commerce, its Visitor’s Information Center and the Salmon Days Festival office.

a remodeled coal miner’s shack from 1914. The home is at 140 Sixth Ave. S.E.; call 246-8382.

You will be a few steps away from miles of scenic Tiger Mountain hiking trails or the historic walking tour of Issaquah and a visit to the salmon hatchery, the Issaquah Depot Museum and the Gilman Town Hall Museum. You will also be in a good place to enjoy the night life in the historic downtown.

If you prefer a water environment, try Lake House Bed and Breakfast, 415 E. Lake Sammamish Parkway S.E., on the shores of Lake Sammamish.

Birders to bikers will find tranquil-ity in this lakeside lodge with its holistic approach. The hosts promote a healthful environment, serving local organic meals and using nonallergen-ic bedding and all-natural, chemical-

free cleaning aids in a nonsmoking atmosphere.

If you are towing your lodging behind you, you can set up in one of two RV parks with entirely different settings.

The Issaquah Village RV Park, 650 First Ave. N.E., offers 56 sites with full hookups and daily, weekly and monthly rates. It doesn’t have an in-town feeling, as it is on a quiet side street, but it does have a short bike or walking path to the historic down-town. Take a virtual tour of the park at www.ivrvpark.com.

If you want to get out of town a little ways, try Blue Sky RV Park, 302nd Ave. S.E., just off the Preston-Fall City Road exit from Interstate 90.

Blue Sky is in a quiet, woodsy setting and all of its spaces feature paved parking pads and full hook-ups. It also features daily, weekly and monthly rates.

If you are a more orthodox trav-eler, you can find refined accommo-dations at Hilton Garden Inn, 1800 N.W. Gilman Blvd.; Holiday Inn, 1801 12th Ave. N.W.; and of course Motel 6, 1885 15th Place N.W., will leave the light on for you.

17

Quilting and Stitching SuppliesFabrics * Patterns * Classes

355 NW Gilman Blvd Suite 102Issaquah, WA 98027

425-557-7878www.gossypiumquilt.com

Quilting is both an art form and a relationship between

you and your fabric.

Only 15 miles from downtown Seattle and minutes from the Eastgate/I-90 CorridorFree high-speed Internet access (HSIA) and the 24-hour Business Center.

After a full day, you can relax in the (seasonal) heated, outdoor pool before enjoying an incredible meal in the full-service restaurant.

You can even keep up your workout regiment for free in the extensive Sammamish Club fi tness center.

Come see for yourself why The Holiday Inn in Issaquah is the Torchbearer Award-winner and an 11-time Quality Excellence Award winner.

425-392-6421• 1801 12th Ave. N.W. Issaquah

Holiday Inn

welcomes

you…

Visitors to Issaquah have access to a variety of lodging styles, with one of the most unique being Treehouse Point, a bed and breakfast at 6922 Preston-Fall City Road, Preston.

The website www.treehousepoint.com describes it as “an intimate Issaquah alternative for individuals and groups who seek comfort and style in friendly and natural surroundings.”

To fully appreciate the uniqueness of tree house lodging and the woodsy setting of Treehouse Point, click on “galleries” on the website menu.

If you can’t picture yourself eat-ing breakfast with the birds, there is Issaquah Bed and Breakfast in historic downtown Issaquah, where you can spend the night in a cottage next to

17

LODGING

BY JOE GROVE

Hotels, B&Bs and treehouses offer beds

Stay the night

18

18

STATE PARK

After a Pacific Northwest fall, winter and spring that seemingly blend together, muddied by a persistent rain, summer can never come soon enough.

When it does, however, it’s a thing of beauty, filled with blue sky, sunshine and a temperate climate that just beckons locals to come outside.

There is no better place to soak up those all-too infrequent rays than at Lake Sammamish State Park.

The 512-acre day-use park includes 6,858 feet of waterfront on scenic Lake Sammamish, miles of hiking trails and comfortable grass lawns, perfect for a family picnic. Washington State Parks cel-ebrate its centennial this year.

Lake Sammamish State Park is also an ideal location to bird watch thanks to the diverse natu-ral wetlands and a large great blue heron rookery.

Visitors can take to the water with one of the park’s nine boat ramps, or even rent a canoe, kayak or paddleboard right on the beach from Issaquah Paddle Sports.

“What’s great about Lake Sammamish is that it’s right in the population center of the state and not many of our state parks are,” said Nikki Fields, a parks planner with Washington State Parks. “It’s one of our gems.”

There is no doubt, though, that this gem could use some polishing.

“I would call the park tired, and clearly a tired park needs some energy,” said Connie Marsh, a member of the newly formed Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park, a group of volunteers dedi-cated to supporting the park.

A needed faceliftIn 2007, state parks commission-

ers approved a bold plan to remake and restore the park, including the construction of a new bathhouse,

State park centennialLake Sammamish park readies for a facelift

BY CHRISTINA CORRALES-TOY

By Greg Farrar

Peaches, the giant Schnauzer, looks on with curiosity as her owner Connie Marsh (left) and David Kappler, board members of the recently formed Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park, chat at the park’s rotunda shelter built in 1975, when Dan Evans was governor.

19

Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission

Architectual plans and sketches for the improve-ments at the park show the planned boardwalk and new bathhouse on Sunset Beach with green roof, solar panels, restrooms, concessions, covered outdoor picnic bench seating area, new sand on the beach and floating docks. A drawing by Patano + Hafermann Architects shows features such as the green roof, timber construction and native grasses.

20

beach improvements, a lakeshore walkway and other amenities.

Funding was hard to come by for the projects, though, as the state struggled financially.

In 2013, however, construc-tion will begin on at least one park improvement, and potentially more if the state Legislature includes funding in its final budget.

Beginning in July, the state will start building a 500-foot boardwalk that travels from the park’s Sunset Beach out to the mouth of Issaquah Creek, Fields said.

The boardwalk will replace what is currently just a muddy trail surround-ed by wooden fencing on either side.

“It’s right by the creek and it’s right by the lake, and a lot of the park is wetland, so it’s not an easy place to walk,” Fields said.

So many visitors do travel along the trail in part because of the beau-tiful view looking back at Sunset Beach from the mouth of Issaquah Creek.

The project will make that trek much easier, with the installation of a boardwalk that will generally be less than 30 inches off the ground.

“The boardwalk’s intention is to allow people to get out to the end of the spit to look at the lake from there, but it will also make sure they walk on the boardwalk versus walking through the restoration work right along the shoreline that we’ve com-pleted,” Fields said.

Interpretive signage will also be placed on the boardwalk, giving visi-tors an opportunity to learn more about the park, creek and lake.

The boardwalk will take three months to construct but it should be ready by fall, Fields said.

Bathhouse, beach improvements coming

If funding comes through, the state could also begin the much-needed construction of a new bath-house on Sunset Beach in 2013.

Designs for a new structure are already complete and the necessary permits are in hand.

The current bathhouse appears worn and outdated and is an eyesore on what is an otherwise majestic view of the Lake Sammamish shoreline.

The new project would involve removing the current bathhouse to build an entirely new structure, com-plete with bathrooms and a conces-sion area, Fields said. The building would also have unique environmen-tal features.

“It is a green design,” Fields said. “It will have a planted roof and another part of the roof will have solar panels. We’re very excited about it and hopeful we get funding.”

Fields expects the bathhouse to be completed by June 2014.

The state also has plans to improve the beach itself, adding new sand and filling small sinkholes in the swimming area.

Amenitiesq 1.5 miles of biking and hiking trailsq 2 beaches — Sunset Beach and Tibbetts Beachq 2 horseshoe pitsq 2 softball fieldsq 5 volleyball fieldsq 2 bathhousesq 2 children’s play areasq 475 unsheltered picnic tablesq 80 barbecue grillsq 9 boat launches

Watercraft owners can launch their boat at the park, provided they secure a $7 launching per-mit. Annual and one-day permits are available online at 1.usa.gov/190XEEy, at regional offices and at the park when staff is available.

The park also has a campsite. The Hans Jensen youth group camping area accommodates up to 200 people and 40 cars. There are 36 picnic tables, 12 stoves, a covered picnic shelter and four vault toilets.

Call 888-CAMPOUT (226-7688) to reserve any day-use facilities, including covered pic-nic shelters and the camping site.

Learn more about Lake Sammamish State Park at www.parks.wa.gov.

Source: Washington State Parks website

21

425.888.7108 • 650 E. North Bend Way • North Bend • www.redoakresidence.com

Senior Living at its FinestSenior Living at its FinestJoin the Fun!

“See why Red Oak is the best value for Senior Carein the Valley and on the Eastside.”

Discover a retirement & lifestyle that's just right for you! You'll � nd Independent Living and Assisted Living Services at the foot of Mt. Si.

Voted Best in the Valley2005-2013!

If you goLake Sammamish State Park

is conveniently located just off Interstate 90 at 2000 N.W. Sammamish Road in Issaquah.

A Discover Pass is required for motor-vehicle access to state parks. An annual pass costs $30, while a one-day pass costs $10. The Discover Pass allows users access to nearly 3 million acres of state recreation lands.

Purchase passes online at www.discoverpass.wa.gov. There is a $99 fine for failing to display the pass while visiting a state park. Revenue from the Discover Pass supports recreation on state lands.

Anyone can visit a state park without charge, though, on a handful of selected “free days” — Aug. 4, Sept. 28 and Nov. 9-11.

The park is open from 6:30 a.m. to dusk during the summer.

The other state parkLake Sammamish is not the

only state park in the area. Squak Mountain State Park is

a 1,545-acre, day-use park just outside Issaquah. The forested park features miles of trails in wil-derness solitude for equestrians and hikers alike.

The park offers six unsheltered picnic tables, a horse-loading ramp and 13 miles of hiking trails on the mountain that juts 2,024 feet into the air.

The same state park admis-sion standards apply to Squak Mountain.

Squak Mountain State Park is at 21430 S.E. May Valley Road, Issaquah.

Become a friendThe newly formed Friends of

Lake Sammamish State Park is a group of volunteers and commu-nity leaders committed to sup-porting, preserving and strength-ening the local park.

Learn more about the Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park on the group’s Facebook page, on.fb.me/YR6mSg. Get involved by emailing friendsoflakesa-mmstatepark@hotmail.com.

“The beach currently is not a very inviting place,” Fields said. “It was last improved in the 1970s. In the intervening years, a lot of the sand that was added back then has been washed away or covered over with silt.”

Repairing the sinkholes is one of the state’s priorities with its beach improvements, Fields said.

“There are also a number of sink-holes out in the water, so you could be walking in knee-deep water, and then take a step and suddenly you are in waist-deep water,” she said. “We’ve been concerned about it for awhile.”

The aim is to do the project in two phases. The first phase will include about 200 linear feet of beach improvements and the construction of a ramp that will allow people with disabilities to access the water. The state is seeking grant funding for the second phase, which would add another 200 to 250 feet of improve-ments.

The state is in the initial design phase of the project and still needs to acquire permits, which can take several months. It is likely that construction of phase one will not begin until summer 2014 at the earliest.

“That one is kind of a complicated

project to lay the sand down the way we want it,” Fields said. “I don’t know exactly how long that construc-tion will take, but I expect that it’s more complicated than the board-walk project.”

Making an inviting park

Lake Sammamish State Park is in a prime location, deep in the heart of the highly populated Puget Sound area. The hope is that the improve-ments will make the park more invit-ing to locals and people across the state.

Along with the proposed upgrades, the state has plans to improve the lawn area, create new meeting spaces and add an RV/tent campground. When these things will happen, however, is anyone’s best guess.

Local volunteers recently mobi-lized to offer its support with the formation of the Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park.

With volunteers and fundraising, the group expects to help ensure the 2007 conceptual park plan is implemented. The group will also make recommendations on other park upgrades that the community desires.

“There are other friends groups in

the state and they’ve proven to be a valuable asset to the park in terms of helping get funding,” said David Kappler, one of the group’s board members.

Kappler used the Bridle Trails Park Foundation as an example of what a friends group can do. In 2002, when the state park in Kirkland was in jeopardy of closing, the Bridle Trails group agreed to act in partnership with the state in funding the cost of operations and maintaining the trails, with assurance the park would remain open.

While Lake Sammamish State Park is in no danger of closing, it does yearn for some community support, Marsh said.

“In cooperation with state parks and the city of Issaquah, there was sort of a push to see what the inter-est was and to potentially begin a friends group to help try and provide the sort of community support and improvements the park deserves,” she said.

Locals can support the park in a variety of ways, but any little bit helps, Marsh said.

“Community support or improve-ments could be going out for grant funding, actual physical labor on the ground or just a little bit of beautifi-cation,” she said.

The group is still in its infancy, but both Marsh and Kappler said they hope that it can one day have as large an impact on its park as the Bridle Trails organization did.

Kappler has dreams of lifeguards returning to the park one day with the Friends group’s support.

“I think lifeguards are just a critical thing for safety of the swim-mers,” he said. “I think the park would get a lot more use, a lot more family and kid use if lifeguards were there.”

Marsh, on the other hand, just wants to see the vision of the park as a multi-use recreation area truly come to fruition.

“One of the main efforts is to try and make the park multi-user, so people don’t go and only visit their section of the park,” she said. “We want them to know that there are other things to do at the park.

“I want a great park that people want to go to,” she added. “That means that it’s beautiful, it’s main-tained and there are things to do.”

22

By Greg Farrar

Employees of a Bellevue firm enjoy barbecue, chitchat and volleyball during a company picnic in a reserved party area at Lake Sammamish State Park.

23

ISSAQUAH MEADOWS - ISSAQUAH1580 NW GILMAN BLVD. - 425.391.9690 - www.cafesinc.com

MON-SAT 6AM-3PM • SUN 7AM-3PM

Eat here...it’s good!

Breakfast & dessert served all

day

Submit JPEG by email: contest@isspress.com

Include name, address, phone, email, and the photo’s story. Limit 3 entries per photographer.

Deadline: August 11, 2013

Winners announced:Sept. 4 in The Issaquah Press & Sammamish Review

ISSAQUAH - SAMMAMISH

In 3 categories:PEOPLE • SCENICS ANIMALS

AmateurPhoto

Contest

All submissions come with permission to be reproduced, with photo credit, in any publication of The Issaquah Press or Sammamish Review.

Judging criteria:Originality, composition, lighting & strength of Issaquah/Sammamish identity.

WINNERS!

1ST PLACE!

2013

24

The state Department of Fish and Wildlife made a fishy Father’s Day for thousands of families this year with the announcement they would release 10,000 triploid rainbow trout into local lakes.

The release included hungry young fish into Lake Sammamish and Pine Lake to boost the number of native trout and small mouth bass in local waterways. The state released more than 42,000 young trout earlier in the year.

“This is the second straight year we’ve stocked trout before Father’s Day. This year, we’ve doubled the number of fish and added six more lakes to the list,” said Chris Donley, department Inland Fish Program manager. “A fish-ing license is a great Father’s Day gift and catching these big fish will make for some wonderful memories.”

May and June are tradition-ally the best months of the year for local anglers, according to Annette Hoffmann, the regional manager of the state’s fish program. She said the number, and size of fish that have been caught in lakes in the Issaquah region have met or exceeded the numbers recorded in past years.

“Father’s Day is traditionally one of the busiest times of the year for fishing, second only to Opening Day in the spring,” Hoffmann said.

Records kept by the state indicate that May, June and July are the best opportunity to catch both large-mouth and small mouth bass on the south end of Lake Sammamish. The same months have also been the best times to fish for coastal cutthroat and yellow perch.

You have to have patience

The most popular places to fish on the lake are near South Cove and across the highway from the 7-11 convenience store on East Lake Sammamish Parkway, accord-ing to Rich Benson, manager of Lake Sammamish State Park. Benson admitts he has not fished in nearly 40 years, but said he knows the best catches have traditionally come from the Sunken Forest at the southwest corner of the lake. Jensen’s Cove has also proven to be a reliable spot to hook some good-sized keepers.

He did warn amateurs to not bother vesting their lines into the water anywhere in the vicinity of the

Trout vs. bassDiscover the best place to drop your

bait into the water this summerBY DAN AZNOFF

24

FISHING

By Greg Farrar

Will Benson (seated) has a duck eating bread crumbs out of his hand, as he and his dad Bill Benson fish at Beaver Lake on a first day of fishing season.

25

Yourneighborhood

pub

www.pinelakealehouse.com

Join us!

425.898.9099425.898.9099640 228th Ave NE, Sammamish

Also servesbreakfast8-12 Sat8-1 Sun

in addition to full lunch & dinner menu

One of Eastside’s best craft beer selections, featuring 21 rotating taps

THE EASTSIDE’S PREMIER FLY SHOP

425.392.38001410 NW Gilman Blvd(Behind Firestone Off Gilman)

Issaquah www.FishCreekside.com

Summer Classes Available NOW!

boat launch. He recommends the use of a bait-caster or spinning rods and reels to cast soft baits, plugs, buzz baits or spinner baits.

“I’m not a fisherman, but the sto-ries I hear are often impressive from the people who have the patience to wait for just the right time of day,” Benson said. That time, he said, is normally at sunrise or sundown.

There are no public fishing docks on Lake Sammamish, but Benson said angling is available year round from the shoreline or from tie-ups for boats available at the park. Fishing for bass at the state park traditionally picks up from November until March. District biologist Aaron Bosworth said trout are plentiful on the lake from January until April.

Many bass clubs stage annual tour-naments in Lake Sammamish, accord-ing to Bosworth. The best results, he said, are divided between trolling and using jigs to attract the fish from shaded areas along the shoreline.

State records indicate that bass catches usually outnumber the num-ber of trout taken from the lake by almost 3-to-1, but Bosworth said those numbers may reflect the fact that many bass fishermen practice

catch and release. The same statistics showed significant catches of other types of fish depending on the time of year. The other species included coho, sockeye and chinook salmon, kokan-ee, bullhead bass, suckers and varieties of the three-spine stickleback.

Pine Lake fishing

Families who have their hearts (and dinner menu) set on trout will probably have a better oppor-

tunity for success at Pine Lake in Sammamish. The release of young trout is expected to boost catches on the plateau lake from fair to good to excellent. April and May are tradition-ally the best months to fish at Pine Lake for largemouth bass, rainbow trout and yellow perch. Carry-over trout (from last year’s release) can range from 12-14 inches.

Shore-bound anglers can fish from a wraparound-style pier or from the public access points of the lakeshore. Outboard motors are prohibited, but a boat ramp allows access to smaller boats and float tubes.

Anglers at Pine Lake have also reported significant catches of brown bullheads and pumpkinseed, more commonly known as sun fish.

Dedicated anglers have also land-ed potential dinner at the popular fishing sites at Hope Creek, along the East Fork of Issaquah Creek, on Tibbetts Creek, Yellow Lake, Beaver Lake, Long Lake and Round Lake. Portions of Issaquah Creek are limited to only young anglers.

Bosworth noted that Beaver Lake always draws a crowd in November when select 3-pound trout are released into the lake.

Get your line inLicenses for fishing are

required for all anglers 16 or older. Individuals are limited to only one active pole in the water at any time.

Purchase fishing licenses online at fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov, by telephone at 1-866-246-9453 toll free or at hundreds of license dealers across the state.

Get details on license vendor locations at www.wdfw.wa.gov/licensing/vendors.

26

Hours: 9am-6:30pm Mon.-Sat. • 10am-6pm Sunday

Rent Your Paddle Now!

Open Friday, Weekends and Holidayswww.Issaquahpaddlesports.com

Kayakacademy.com 206.527.1825

Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP), Kayak and NuCanoe Rentals at Lake

Sammamish State Park, Tibbett’s beach

Get started with your paddle sports experience at the

Snack Shack-snacks, hot dogs and beverages available

Register for Youth Camps and Adult Programs with Kayak Academy

For tourists: $10 Discover Day Pass is required when driving into the Park

Walking distance or hotel transporation is available to the Park

“Adventures in Boating Washington Handbook” is also a great resource for new boaters to learn about rules and regulations.

All vessels must have a Washington title and be officially registered, except smaller vessels not propelled by a motor or sail, such as canoes and kayaks. If a vessel is properly reg-istered by a resident of another state or country, it is cleared to be used

on Washington waters for 60 days or fewer. There are also numerous boat rentals near Issaquah.

A sunny and breezy day marks the perfect opportunity for boating. Be sure to check out these amazing waters and have a refreshing experience!

Kevin Lee is a student in the University of Washington Department of Communication News Laboratory.

Enjoy getting out on the water? Lake Sammamish, Pine Lake and Beaver Lake are all perfect local boat-ing locations.

Lake Sammamish State Park offers 6,858 feet of waterfront, surrounded by a 512 acres that include a multi-lane boat launch. Pine Lake and Beaver Lake are community parks that have relatively small bodies of water. During summer, the parks are typically open from dawn until dusk.

State law requires boat operators to carry a Washington State Boater Education card when operating motorboats with 15 or greater horse-power. This card can be attained by taking an approved boater education course (online or at home), which teaches boating safety and skills. The

26

BOATING

BY KEVIN LEE

The Nelson family, of Bothell, pre-pare their boat at the Lake Sammamish boat launch for innertubing in 90-degree heat.

By Greg Farrar

Area lakes offer ideal boating

27

Visit Bainbridge Island

We also offer everything you need for memorable everyday dinners. From locally made pasta and sauces and a well stocked cheese case to seasonal island veggies and a unique selection of beer and wine.

4569 Lynwood Ctr. Rd. NE Bainbridge Island, WA 98110206-780-1902 • www.panedamore.com

The South End’s source for artisan bread and pastries

Seattle to Bainbridge Summer Ferry Schedule at BainbridgeIsland.com/ferry

Take a short drive or the shuttle south to Lynnwood. Enjoy tasty

treats for the whole family in a lovely, relaxing atmosphere.

Not to be missed!

There’s a wealth of things to do on Bainbridge Island for all ages and interests. Check out events at

bainbridgechamber.com

Your next getaway is only a short ferry ride

away and the commute is breathtaking

28

It’s a known fact that water and summer go together better than pea-nut butter and jelly, and Issaquah is filled with spots to quench that need for a nice, refreshing swim.

Whether you want to revel in the natural setting of a local lake, or play in the secure confines of an indoor community pool, a dip into the water is the perfect complement to a warm Issaquah day.

The city-operated Julius Boehm Pool offers a safe place for swim-mers of any age to take to the water under the watchful supervision of a lifeguard.

“We’re very busy,” said Jen Newton, a city recreation supervisor. “We offer everything from drop-in swimming, to swim lessons, to adult exercise classes.”

The indoor facility gets a lot of use. It serves as the home pool for local high school swim teams, and is a fun and unique tool that visitors use to get into shape.

Julius Boehm Pool is also that spe-cial place where many local young-

sters first get their feet wet. Children as young as 6 months, accompanied by a parent, can begin to understand the basics of swimming, thanks to the facility’s course offerings.

The whole family is invited to a night of aquatic fun on special Fridays during the summer. On July

5 and Aug. 2, from 6:30-9 p.m., parents and kids alike can drop in for water games appropriate for all ages and swimming abilities.

“We reach every age range and we do a lot of fun stuff here,” Newton said.

If the open, natural air is more to your liking, head over to Lake Sammamish State Park, where you can choose from two beaches and immerse yourself in the serene waters of Lake Sammamish.

Tibbetts and Sunset beaches are open to swimmers, but the area lacks lifeguards due to state budget cuts. Visitors can borrow a life jacket from a beach kiosk, though.

If you are looking for something a little smaller than Lake Sammamish, travel to the Sammamish Plateau, where Beaver Lake and Pine Lake await.

Beaver Lake does not have an official swimming area, but that does not keep locals from testing the waters. It also does not have life-guards.

SWIMMING

If you goJulius Boehm Pool50 S.E. Clark St.www.issaquahwa.gov/pool

Lake Sammamish State Park2000 N.W. Sammamish Roadwww.parks.wa.gov

Beaver Lake25101 S.E. 24th St.www.ci.sammamish.wa.us

Pine Lake2401 228th Ave. S.E.www.ci.sammamish.wa.us

By Christina Corrales-Toy

A loaner life jacket station is offered on Tibbetts Beach at Lake Sammamish State Park, where a float boundary keeps boats out and children in for added summer swimming safety.

JUMP IN!The water is fine in

local swimming holesBY CHRISTINA CORRALES-TOY

28

29

Don’t let your kids fall behind in Math!

4546 Klahanie Dr SE Issaquah, WA 98029

(425) 270-1054

$50 OFFWhen you sign up for

Summer Camp before July 15Free Assessment & Registration

• Most students fall more than two months behind in math over the summer.• Teachers spend four to six weeks in the fall re-teaching forgotten material• Our children’s counterparts in China, India, Sweden, Singapore for sure, are not taking 2 whole months off from school.

Summer SessionEnrollingNow!

30

30

BICYCLING

If you are a visitor and have been here for more than 24 hours, you might have noticed that Issaquah is bicycle friendly.

Bicycling is the way some people do their part to keep up Washington’s reputation as the Evergreen State. For others, it is the way they get out and enjoy the syl-van setting.

If you wish to join the bicycle crowd, there are several ways to go about it. As you drive along East Lake Sammamish Parkway, you will see a newly finished, paved bike trail. This 11-mile trail starts at Second Avenue in Issaquah and ends at Marymoor Park in Redmond.

It follows an old railroad bed, and the newly paved portion has gone from a crushed rock surface to a 12-foot-wide paved trail with a 2-foot soft surface shoulder on each side, making it more accessible to bicyclist, skaters, walkers and joggers of all ages and abilities.

The 2.2-mile stretch from Gilman Boulevard to Southeast 43rd Way is part of a 44-mile bicycling cor-ridor that will eventually connect Seattle’s Ballard and Issaquah. For a little adventure, borrow a bicycle if you didn’t bring one along, and take a ride on this feature of the King County Parks system.

If you are the more rugged type and like the mountain bike approach to two-wheeling, make your way to the 130-acre Duthie Hill Park, 27101 S.E. Duthie Hill Road, where you will find something for every rider, including 6 miles of cross country bike trail and 2 miles of free-ride trail with jumps and built features, a central clearing with a shelter, kids’ biking area and opportunities for skill building.

Duthie Hill Park opened for moun-tain biking in 2010, the first phase

of construction, and the park was completed in 2012. The park now gets more than 75,000 rider visits per year. Riders of all ages and skill levels can find the perfect trail for them at the park.

What, no bike?So, you’ve discovered Issaquah is

bicycling paradise.Unfortunately, your bike is sitting

at home because you don’t have one of those racks on the back of your car

to transport a bike, nor do you have one of those Bike Fridays that you can fold up and put in your luggage. You’ve watched all the daytime tele-vision you can handle, and you and your guests are starting to tell each other the same story for the third time, so you need to get out of the house.

Bicycle Adventures, at 29700 S.E. High Point Way in Preston, is your answer. While they can arrange a bicycle tour for you in New

Finding fun on two wheels

BY JOE GROVE

By Greg Farrar

Mikey Inman (left) and brother Marshall, of Issaquah, are much safer bicycle users after completing obstacle courses and having bicycle safety checks performed at Issaquah Valley Elementary School in the annual Bike Safety Fair.

31

Dance with Miss Sue425.443.5737

Tuition or Drop In • 27 years experienceMbr. of Dance Educators of America

• Ages 3-7Pre-ballet, basic tumbling, tap

• Ages 8-10Hip Hop

• on the Plateau • 6 week summer

program

Schools & Activities

Zealand, Hawaii or dozens of places in the world, the United States or Washington, they also have daylong rides in places like the East Lake Sammamish Parkway Bike Trail or the Iron Horse State Park for mountain bikers.

The good news is, they provide everything; you just have to show up.

If you can latch on to a bicycle on your own, download the free State Park app “Pocket Ranger,” click on the “by activity” icon and then the “Mountain Biking” icon and feast your eyes on the banquet of oppor-tunities to get out of the house and exercise your legs.

By Greg Farrar

Dan Veitch, of Klahanie, takes a jump at one of the BMX trails at Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park.

32

32

ZOO

Talk to the animals

Bellevue residents David and Kuniko Jacobson picked a great time during June’s warm stretch to take their children, Elina, 2 ½, and Roman, 6 months, on their first visit to Cougar Mountain Zoo.

“It’s great. It’s a perfect size for here on the Eastside,” David said. “It lets you get so close to the tigers. Plus, you get to go and feed all the animals.”

In fact, they so enjoyed their visit, they decided to become members,

so they could return anytime they wanted, and it allows the Jacobsons to bring their kids for an hour at a time and go home.

“Elina was very upset it was closed Monday and Tuesday,” David said.

“The white alpaca was her favorite. Elina was screaming and crying when she wasn’t able to say goodbye.”

For zoo manager Robyn Barfoot, the Jacobsons are the perfect first-time visitors to Cougar Mountain Zoo. She likes to promote the zoo’s ability to get visitors closer to the ani-mals in a safer environment.

“It allows you to see and hear them all the better and have unfor-gettable interactions,” Barfoot said.

Cougar Mountain Zoo was estab-lished in 1972 to primarily focus on endangered species and education. The collection of animals has since

If you goCougar Mountain Zoo q 19525 S.E. 54th St.q 391-5508q www.cougarmountainzoo.org

By Greg Farrar

Lisa Land (right), Cougar Mountain Zoo lead bird keeper, shows Kiwi the scarlet macaw to visitors David Jacobson and his daughter Elina, 2, of Bellevue, during a preview of the new bird habitat.

New programs let visitors get close to wildlife at Cougar Mountain Zoo

BY DAVID HAYES

33

grown to include birds (macaws, emus and cranes), cats (cougars, tigers and, coming soon, cheetahs) and other animals such as wallabies, lemurs and reindeer.

“Zoos all over the world each have a different collection that you can travel to, to get a special experi-ence,” Barfoot said. “Our collection was chosen for its educational value and their ability to be comfortable in our weather system.”

However, while focusing on ani-mals other zoos may not feature, Barfoot said the trick to attract visi-tors who’ve been to zoos is to offer unique experiences.

For example, Cougar Mountain Zoo boasts the largest bronze animal zoo art collection of any zoo in the world. Its wildlife museum features “a very unique and priceless collec-tion of wildlife and paraphernalia.” The pieces, donated both by private individuals and public agencies, are used in its broad array of educational programs.

And not many zoos can lay claim to hosting annual visits by Santa Claus during the annual Reindeer Festival, while providing a year-round respite before they hit the skies Dec. 24.

The zoo is a grassroots organi-zation that does not receive state or federal funds, Barfoot said, so entrance fees and membership costs go to fund operations and expan-

sions.Several of the more popular pro-

grams the zoo features are its Close Encounters tours. Zoo regulars can get closer than ever to their favorites, from the tigers to the reindeer. Making bigger donations, such as a minimum of $250, gets visitors a behind-the-scenes tiger tour. Book a Close Encounter by calling the zoo’s education depart-ment at 392-6278.

The zoo is in the midst of expand-ing its World of Macaws, already one of the top such exhibits in the country, Barfoot said. Come August, it will feature covered flights, a larg-er, enclosed area with covered ceil-

ings, and expanded showbird and grotto areas for the birds to literally hang out in and be admired by the masses.

In addition, the zoo is expanding to include a cheetah exhibit and a new, world-class lemur exhibit.

Although the only other zoo David Jacobson has taken his family to is Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, he said Cougar Mountain Zoo has every-thing they need, all in one package.

“Woodland may be bigger, but Cougar’s convenience to the Eastside and mix of animals make it much more fun,” he said. “Here, you’re guaranteed to always see some-thing.”

MembershipSociety Member and Friend of the Zoo benefits include:q Free admissionq One guest ticket per memberq Two half-price admission coupons per memberq 15 percent off gift shop itemsq 15 percent off zoo productsq Free copy of Zoo Journalq 20 percent discount to Close q Encounters Program

Membership categoriesq Single person — $52

q Dual — $72q Family or group of three — $85 ($25 for each additional person)q Business (four admission cards) — $845q Lifetime (4 persons) — $1,580 $300 for each additional person

To joinq Download a membership appli- cation at http://bit.ly/126gIRE.q Write to: Cougar Mountain Zoo, 19525 S.E. 45th St., Issaquah, WA 98027q Call 392-6278.q Email info@cougarmountainzoo. org.

EAST AFRICAN CROWNED CRANE BAGHEERA, A BENGAL TIGER EJEA, A BLUE AND GOLD MACAW

34

sky’s

Paragliders are as much a part of the community as

salmon in the creek

After years of launching himself off the sheer cliffs of Tiger Mountain, there is very little that surprises Marc Chirico anymore.

“I’ve heard them all, from the

screams of pure joy to the most out-rageous expletives that cannot be printed in the newspaper,” the owner and operator of Seattle Paragliding said with a wide smile.

Chirico takes special pride in his role as instructor for first-time fly-ers during tandem flights from the

thelimit

By Greg Farrar

An instructor and student fly tandem during a lesson above Tiger Mountain, as a passenger jet flies several miles overhead.

PARAGLIDING

34

By Greg Farrar

Seattle Paragliding owner Marc Chirico prepares a glider for takeoff from Poo Poo Point on Tiger Mountain, with downtown Issaquah and Lake Sammamish in the background.

The

BY DAN AZNOFF

launch area perched above Issaquah-Hobart Road.

“The nervousness usually disap-pears the moment our feet leave the ground and the student can feel the wind provide the lift that we promised during our Ground School instruction,” he said.

The launch area is almost always filled with curious onlookers.

“The students did not seem ner-vous or scared,” said Jason Hallgren, of Bothell, who hiked up the steep

trail with his dog Jake. “Most of the people at the top were in awe. Just watching the experience is inspira-tional.”

First-timers have the security of a qualified instructor strapped into the harness behind them and the calm-ing sound of advice through their headset from Chirico’s wife Lan, who serves as manager of the landing field on the ground below.

Seattle Paragliding offers flights every day of the year, depending on

the weather, beginning at noon and until 8 p.m. during the long days of summer. The Paragliding Center located north of the landing area fea-tures 12 harness simulators, a grassy beginner training hill with stadium lighting, an emergency reserve zip line trainer as well as a full classroom with maps and a widescreen televi-sion for instruction.

“Our exceptional instruction facil-ity, combined with our passionate team of instructors, allows us to deliv-er an unparalleled program,” Chirico explained. “We take our instruction and our attention to safety very seri-ously. But we also have a lot of fun here every day.”

The founder’s only regret is the name of his facility.

“We consider ourselves to be a true community treasure of Issaquah, proudly based right here on Tiger Mountain,” he said. “We refer to our-selves as the Issaquah Air Force.”

Chirico takes the business-side of paragliding seriously. Seattle Paragliding was the first authorized school in the Seattle area. Chirico proudly pointed out an eagle’s nest located in the trees near the hilltop launch area. His personal YouTube channel features the release of injured hawks during mid-flight.

Videos of TeamChirico in action are available on its own channel of the Internet search engine.

Chirico has been a certified instructor since 1982. His personal memory book includes the 83-year-old novice he took soaring over the Memorial Day weekend and intro-ducing his 8-year-old granddaughter Kaela to the joy of paragliding (which you can see at http://youtu.be/ W_e2QkEnkJo).

“My family had no fear of me tak-ing Kaela on a tandem flight,” he said. “We have taken up first-timers as young as 4 or 5. They all know me as the wild and crazy grandpa. But I would never take chances with the safety of any of our students, regard-less of how old they are.

“Or how much they scream.”The owners of Seattle Paragliding

live less than 100 yards away from their school. Each night, as they walk toward their home, Chirico takes the time to be grateful to each student with his parting words, “Thank you for not hurting yourself today.”

35

By Greg Farrar

An experienced paraglider brings his wing in for a soft touchdown in the landing zone, — called the LZ for short — a cleared meadow below Poo Poo Point along Issaquah Hobart Road.

36

36

FARMERS MARKET

Farmers marketsBringing families together with food, fun

Every Saturday brings a swarm of hungry, smiling people to Pickering Barn for the weekly Farmers Market. It’s easy to see why.

The largest farmers market on the Eastside is put on by the city of Issaquah and has a great amount to offer all ages. With more than 100 booths weekly and multiple activities, anyone could likely find a reason to attend.

The variety of food items available is nothing short of impressive. Many local farmers come from surround-ing areas to offer up their produce. With most advertising organic goods, mountains of fruit and crisp vegeta-bles are readily available for purchase. But it does not stop there.

There are extended varieties of plants for sale. From bouquets of flowers to potted plants, the new growth of the season blossoms into the lot next to the barn. Nursery

BY PETER CLARK

By Peter Clark

Open rain or shine, the Issaquah Farmers Market never fails to bring out a crowd. People of all ages find some entertainment, whether it is listening to live music, eating hot food or jumping in the inflatable castles.

By Peter Clark

Green thumbs find plenty of reasons to attend the weekly farmers market. Many local gardeners enjoy shopping for seasonal plants to add to their gardens.

37

plants, seedlings and seasonal horti-culture are on display.

Besides the produce, food choices are extensive. Baked bread, home-made pasta, cooking oils and much more can be found regularly. Many options of prepared food await those who cannot wait to cook their mar-ket-bought fare. Sausage sandwiches, homemade doughnuts and pastries add their smells to the air.

The market is also home to a unique assortment of crafts. Jewelers, weavers and sewers bring their talent and impressive work weekly. A local alpaca farm sells socks and garments made from harvested wool. They even go out of the way to bring the friendly animals to the market.

Though the goods are an excellent reason to attend the farmers market, there are many activities as well. Not every child is passionate about

supporting local merchants, so the market always offers something more on their level. Pony rides and inflat-able bouncy houses are among the attractions that serve to keep children entertained.

Activities aren’t just for the young, and the city chooses a weekly theme. Whether they are master gardener displays or cooking demonstrations, the activities pair up to make the most out of the ingredients and spirit cultivated at the market. Seattle Tilth, the sustainable gardening organiza-tion, also provides regular informa-tional tours of the garden that grows on the side of the barn.

Music at the gazebo can take many forms. Ukulele groups could be teach-

ing a hula dance or a ventriloquist could be launching a music show.

Space is not wasted inside the barn. There, craftspeople spread out in the musty, comfortable air. Wooden pieces are sold next to woven items while antique dealers offer old treasures. By the large open door, face painters take a seat to decorate children.

Though there has been some con-sternation over parking changes that will take place through the 2013 sea-son as Costco builds a new parking structure, it does not seem to slow down people attending the event.

The market is open rain or shine. Find more information at issaquahwa.gov/market or call 837-3311.

If you goIssaquah Farmers Marketq 1730 10th Ave. N.W.q Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Oct. 12

Pony rides are a kid favorite. The gazebo features live music.

FREE LIFETIME WHITENING*

*For new patients only, after exam, X-rays and cleaning; not valid with any other offer; as long as the patient keeps his/her 6 months check up appointments.

425.391.7645

Dentistry made affordableGentle, comfortable and personalized care.

• Comprehensive Exam and Diagnosis• Intra-oral Camera and Digital X-rays• Implants and Wisdom Teeth Extractions• Cosmetic Dentistry - Porcelain Veneers• Invisalign - Clear Braces• Dentistry for Kids• Root Canals, Periodontics

Our family caring for your family

5006 E. Lake Sammamish Prkwy • sunrisedental.com

FREE Consultations and second opinions

Open Sundays

38

1

A Magical Musical Adventure into the Earth Concert, 1 and 2 p.m., Issaquah Library

2Family Volunteer Event, 10 a.m. to noon, Sammamish Commons

Teen Book Club, 3-4 p.m., Issaquah Library

3

Sammamish Farmers Market, 3-8 p.m., Sammamish Commons

4Heritage Day, 11 a.m., Train Depot, Issaquah

Down Home Fourth of July, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., downtown

Fourth on the Plateau, 6-10 p.m., Sammamish Commons

5 6Issaquah Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pickering Barn

7All Chevy Show, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

8Rock-it Science Concert, 1-2 p.m., Issaquah Library

9 10Sammamish Farmers Market, 3-8 p.m., Sammamish Commons

Opera Preview: ‘Die Walkure,’ 7 p.m., Issaquah Library

11 13Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pickering Barn

Summer History Program: Bad Ben Legg, 11 a.m., Train Depot

‘Kiss Me, Kate,’ through July 21, Village Theatre

14Bare Buns Fun Run, 11 a.m., Fraternity Snoqualmie

Burgers, Bikes and Babes McRally, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

15Treasure Island Puppet Show, 1-2 p.m., Issaquah Library

16 17

Opera preview: ‘Siegfried,’ 7 p.m., Issaquah Library

Trunk & Treasure, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., community center

18Concerts in the Park: Creme Tangerine, 6:30-8 p.m., Pine Lake Park

19 20

21Classy Chassis Car Show, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

22Dig into Magic Show, 1 and 2 p.m., Issaquah Library

Read and discuss ‘The Paris Wife,’ 6:30-8 p.m., Issaquah Library

23 24

Opera preview: ‘Götter-dämmerung,’ 7 p.m., Issaquah Library

25

Chocolate, Wine and All That Jazz, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Boehms Candies

Eclectic Approach, 7 p.m., The Treehouse Point, Preston

26 27History Hike, 11 a.m., Train Depot, Issaquah

Wooden O Shakespeare: ‘The Tempest,’ 7 p.m., Pine Lake Park

Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pickering Barn

28Cascade Cougar Cub Prowl, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

29Funny Folktales Unearthed, 1 and 2 p.m., Issaquah Library

30 31Farmers Market, 3-8 p.m., Sammamish Commons

In the Kitchen with Pike Place Fish Guys, 5 p.m., Sammamish Library

JULY Fifth of July

cleanup, 9 a.m. to noon, Sammamish Commons

Game Night, 6:30-9 p.m., Julius Boehm Pool

ArtWalk, 6-9 p.m., downtown Issaquah

Kidsfirst! Performance Series: Eric Herman and the Thunder Puppies noon to 1 p.m., Beaver Lake Lodge

Concerts on the Green: Big Dog Revue, 7-8:30 p.m., community center

Wooden O Shakespeare: ‘Henry V,’ 7 p.m., community center

The Staxx Brothers, 7 p.m., The Treehouse Point, Preston

Concerts in the Park: Mulligans Rock, 6:30-8 p.m., Pine Lake Park

Family Volunteer Event, 10 a.m. to noon, Sammamish Commons

Eric Herman and the Thunder Puppies, noon to 1 p.m., Sammamish Commons

Concerts on the Green: Sly Mr. Y, 7-8:30 p.m., com-munity center

Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pickering Barn

Sammamish Walks, 10-11:30 a.m., Big Rock Park

Wooden O Shakespeare: ‘Henry V,’ 7 p.m., Pine Lake Park

Concerts on the Green: Chance McKinney, 7-8:30 p.m., community center

Brian Waite Band, noon to 1 p.m., Sammamish Commons

Chalk Art Fest, noon to 5 p.m., Community Center

Concerts on the Green: Steve Kelley’s Little Big Band, 7-8:30 p.m., community center

AUG.

Farmers Market, 3-8 p.m., Sammamish Commons

Farmers Market, 3-8 p.m., Sammamish Commons

Concert: Chance McKinney, 6:30-8 p.m., Pine Lake Park

39

1Wooden O Shakespeare: ‘The Tempest,’ 7 p.m., commu-nity center

Concerts in the Park: The Tropics, 6:30-8 p.m., Pine Lake Park

2ArtWalk, 6-9 p.m., downtown Issaquah

Game Night, 6:30-9 p.m., Julius Boehm Pool

35K Foam Fest, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Lake Sammamish State Park

Grand Ridge Trail Run, 8:30 a.m., Grand Ridge trailhead

Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pickering Barn

4Old Rides Car Show, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

6 7Beat the Heat Splash Day, 1-3 p.m., com-munity center

Farmers Market, 3-8 p.m., Sammamish Commons

8Concerts in the Park: Cherry Cherry, 6:30-8 p.m., Pine Lake Park

Film Series, ‘Lassie Come Home,’ 7 p.m., City Hall

913th annual Festival of New Musicals, Village Theatre Aug. 9-11

10

11N.W. Muscle Car Meet, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

13

Concerts on the Green: Randy Linder Band, 7-8:30 p.m., community center

14Sammamish Farmers Market, 3-8 p.m., Sammamish Commons

15Moonshiner, The Treehouse Point, Preston

Concerts in the Park: Petty Fever, 6:30-8 p.m., Pine Lake Park

17

1814th annual NWCCC ’55-’56-’57, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

Muddy Buddy Adventure, 7-11 a.m., Lake Sammamish State Park

19 20 21Sammamish Farmers Market, 3-8 p.m., Sammamish Commons

22

24Issaquah Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pickering Barn

Lake Sammamish Triathlon, 7 a.m., Lake Sammamish State Park

25

All Corvette Car Show, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

26

Vintage Chevy Club of America, 5 p.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

27 28Farmers Market, 3-8 p.m., Sammamish Commons

In the Kitchen with Pike Place Fish Guys, 5 p.m., Sammamish Library

AUG.

Beaver Lake Triathlon, 7:45 a.m., Beaver Lake Park

Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pickering Barn

Trunk ‘n’ Treasure, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., community center

Eric Ode, noon to 1 p.m., Ebright Creek Park

Concerts on the Green: Manigua, 7-8:30 p.m., community center

Kidsfirst! Performance Series, noon to 1 p.m., Sammamish Commons

Concerts on the Green: Hairstorm, 7-8:30 p.m., community center

29Concerts in the Park: North Country, 6:30-8 p.m., Pine Lake Park

30 31Issaquah Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pickering Barn

National Night Out, 5-7 p.m., Issaquah City Hall

Safe and Sound Sammamish fair, 2-5 p.m., Sammamish Commons

Concerts on the Green: Kalimba, 7-8:30 p.m., com-munity center

Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pickering Barn

Sammamish Days, 10 a.m. to noon, Sammamish Commons

Sammamish Nights, 6:30-10 p.m., Sammamish Commons

Concerts in the Park: Sammamish Symphony, 6:30-8 p.m., Pine Lake Park

40

1Sixth annual Rat Bastards Rat Rod Show, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

XXX Car Show/Shop N’ Swap Meet, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

4

Farmers Market, 3-8 p.m., Sammamish Commons

First day for Issaquah schools

5 6ArtWalk, 6-9 p.m., downtown Issaquah

7Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pickering Barn

Movie on the Green: ‘Sandlot,’ 8-11 p.m., community center

8Eighth annual All Ford Show, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

11 12 13 14Issaquah Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pickering Barn

15Cycle the Wave, 6:30 a.m., Issaquah High School

Mega Cruise, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

18Sammamish Farmers Market, 3-8 p.m., Sammamish Commons

19 20 21Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pickering Barn

Sammamish Walks, 10 a.m. to noon, Beaver Lake Preserve

22

Fifth annual Mini Cooper Show, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

23 24 25

Sammamish Farmers Market, 3-8 p.m., Sammamish Commons

26

Swil Kanim Storytelling, 6-9 p.m., Beaver Lake Lodge

27 28

Issaquah Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pickering Barn

29Draggin’ into winter with no regrets, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

Lake Sammamish Cyclocross, 9:30 a.m., Lake Sammamish State Park

30

SEPT

Farmers Market, 3-8 p.m., Sammamish Commons

Village Theatre: ‘Xanadu,’ times vary, through Oct. 20

Oct. 5Salmon Days, Issaquah (also Oct. 6)

Oct. 12Arts Fair, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sammamish Commons (also Oct. 13)

Oct. 13Magnums, Chargers, 300s, and Challengers, 8 a.m., Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-In

Oct. 19

Sammamish Walks, 10 a.m. to noon, Soaring Eagle Park

Known for being one of the only theaters in the Pacific Northwest that builds its own stage sets, Village Theatre has created a unique, inti-mate haven for its productions.

“We design all the scenery ourselves and build everything in Issaquah,” said Robb Hunt, theater managing director.

The theater has a “construction house” on an adjoining property where the work takes place.

“Our sets give us a unique pro-duction in the end because we are working with a set that was designed in collaboration with the director,” Hunt said. “It is more the director’s vision as opposed to some set that is featured on Broadway.”

Jamie Lily, director of marketing communications, agreed and said that the custom-made sets allow the director of the show to really create something new and fresh.

“The director can then stage the whole show around this set that they have created to create a really unique and cohesive final product,” Lily said.

Village Theatre opened in 1979 and has been the source for a number of popular musicals including “Chicago” and “Million Dollar Quartet.” The latter has helped the theater gain national attention. According to Hunt, the 1956 musical went to Chicago and then to Broadway for over a year, where the actor who played Jerry Lee Lewis won a Tony Award.

Locally, Village Theatre supports some of Issaquah’s most wonderful talent.

“What makes it a great attraction is that it is really an enjoyable evening out on the town to see some great theater in a local community with real-ly amazing professional work that the theater is able to put together within

the Seattle community,” Lily said. “The shows we do are just extraordinary.”

She said that the work she and the marketing promotions team does in support of the production’s path to greatness is something that makes the theater unique in the world.

Youth education is also an impor-tant aspect of helping students build self-confidence through involvement in KIDSTAGE, the Village Theatre Institute, and its Teen Apprenticeship Program. KIDSTAGE classes and rehearsals encourage youths to be creative, collaborate and develop public speaking skills and strong work ethic. The sessions take place once a week for eight to 10 weeks.

Aside from its developmental pro-grams, the theater produces one new musical per season. That includes special set design, original music and actors creating characters from the ground up.

The theater offers five shows a season, including four musicals. The season runs from September through May each year.

Katherine Loh is a student in the University of Washington Department of Communication News Laboratory.

41SE

PT41

VILLAGE THEATRE

Staged right

Village Theatre offers a community, high-end experience

Catch a show2013-14 season‘Xanadu,’ Sept. 12 to Oct. 20‘Les Miserables,’ Nov. 7 to Jan. 5‘The Foreigner,’ Jan. 23 to March 2‘The Tutor,’ March 20 to April 27‘Funny Girl,’ May 15 to July 6

www.villagetheatre.org/issaquah

By Jay Koh/Village Theatre

Village Theatre’s ‘Million Dollar Quartet’ went on to Broadway and earned three Tony Award nominations in 2010. Levi Kreis (second from left), who originated the role of Jerry Lee Lewis in the Issaquah production, won the Tony for Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical.

BY KATHERINE LOH

42

42

SALMON-CENTRIC

Something’s fishy

aroundhere

Salmon capture the passion, humor of Issaquah

Like the fish that inspired the annual citywide street party, visitors quickly learn that Issaquah is salmon-centric. The fishy theme permeates the city — from art to festival fun.

The 44th annual Salmon Days Festival will be held, as always, the first weekend of October. This year, those dates are Oct. 5-6.

The theme for this year’s event will be “Streaming Live” to reflect both the high-tech changes in the com-munity and the fish-centric mindset of the community. The name is also another example of how much fun the organizers have putting the cel-ebration together every year.

“We love puns. The salmon and the fish theme give us an opportunity to be extremely creative every year,” said Robin Kelley, the director of festivals at the Issaquah Chamber of

By Greg Farrar

An adult chinook salmon returning to spawn tries to surmount the weir at the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery.

Something’s fishy

around here

Salmon capture the passion, humor of Issaquah

BY DAN AZNOFF

By Greg Farrar

Brenda Johnson, of Battle Ground, wears her best regalia with the Friends of the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery group during a Salmon Days Grande Parade.

43

Commerce. “Everybody in this office is encouraged to be punny.”

Her office is filled with salmon and fish-related souvenirs that friends and co-workers have given her over the years. Kelley wears fish earrings and has “several” pieces of salmon-themed jewelry that she rotates as part of her regular ward-robe.

The calendar that promotes Salmon Days is filled with “Ohfishal Events.” Business owners who lend financial support to the annual event are considered “Spawnsors” and the “schools of fin-atic” volun-teers who want to become a “big fish in a small pond” are known as “Salmbassadors.“

Badges of honor Brian Twiggs serves as the spawn-

sorship development manager. He said his duties include presenting the salmon-themed plaque to each busi-ness to thank them for their support. Many established backers display the plaques on their wall where they can easily be seen by customers.

“The plaques are like a badge of honor,” Twiggs said. “Each one is different and each one proves just how crazy this community goes for salmon every year.”

The walls of the chamber office are covered with posters from each year of Salmon Days. Each one was designed by a local artist and chosen in an open competition that is held every spring.

“I am amazed at the talent in this city every year,” Kelley said. “We do not provide the artists with a theme, other than the salmon. Each year, we are overwhelmed with submissions that capture the essence of Salmon Days and the love affair this city has with a fish.”

A salmon-centric sense of humor is not limited to the chamber office on Gilman Boulevard. Businesses are encouraged to use the theme for their own marketing purposes. Kelley admits that most business owners are not as “punny” as the staff in her office, but that the salmon has become the “unofficial mascot that represents the city and the people who live in Issaquah.”

She went on to say that books are filled with stories about people who have died in the name of love. The lifecycle of the salmon from strug-

gling young fry darting downstream to avoid predators to their battle upstream three years later to mate and produce offspring is a classic tale worthy of great literature.

“There is nothing fishy about that story,” she said.

Celina Steiger, the education coordinator at the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery on Sunset Way, said salmon are as synonymous with Issaquah as Squak Mountain and Boehm’s Chocolate.

Starting when they’re youngThe salmon hatchery is not

immune to jokes. The scavenger hunt held during the festival at the state facility is named Gill-iver’s Travels. The activity requires young partici-pants to visit various nature-themed exhibits.

Kelley pleads: “Don’t call it an educational activity.”

Steiger described Salmon Days as “craziness” at her facility. She enjoys watching parents guide their children

By Greg Farrar

Issaquah’s new Highmark Medical Building includes a sculpture on the lobby floor of salmon swimming in a riverbed.

44

around the pools and the children, in turn, teaching their parents what they learned about salmon in their classroom.

The lifecycle of the salmon is part of the curriculum at many schools in Western Washington. But students in Issaquah are taught the importance of salmon from an early age, accord-ing to Steiger. Tours at the hatchery are not limited to field trips from local schools. Many parents bring their youngsters to the hatchery when they are young so they can begin to appreciate the importance of nature.

She laughed at how many fathers have walked away from the tanks of young fish with the warning, “We’ll see you at the end of my fishing line in a few years.”

The hatchery maintains a close relationship with local schools. In addition to the annual field trip for youngsters, the hatchery provides salmon eggs to elementary school classrooms throughout the district for the Salmon in the Classroom project.

The unit on salmon is a three-step process, according to Steiger. First, a member of the hatchery staff visits each class to discuss the lifecycle of the salmon and then the students are given the eggs to watch until they hatch in the spring. The unit con-cludes with a release of the salmon into local streams.

This year, students raised and released chinook and coho salmon

as well as kokanee. The land-locked salmon were released back into the lakes where the eggs were laid.

A salmon educationA unit about salmon is part of the

third-grade curriculum for students across Western Washington. But the unit is more personal for the young-sters in Issaquah, who are witness to the return of the native fish every fall.

Elementary school students in Issaquah are not only taught about the journey of the salmon from the creek to Puget Sound and back again, explained Sara Niegowski, executive director of communication for the Issaquah School District. The unit also gives students the opportu-nity to understand the relationship between the fish and the environ-ment and introduces them to the delicate economic balance with the need to generate electricity.

“The Issaquah art docents love salmon projects, and every elemen-tary school now incorporates a salmon project,” Niegowski said. “Some do clay salmon. Others do a Native American mask of our favorite salmon.

“Overall, you could say we love salmon.”

The scholastic unit concludes with a comparison of species that rely on clean water to predict how the differ-ences might help one survive better than the other.

“The kids understand how the system works,” Steiger said. “Salmon are a keystone species in the food chain. Everybody knows that eagles and bears feed on salmon, but stu-dents in the Issaquah schools learn that raccoons, ducks and great blue herons feed on the eggs that are laid along the rocky shore. They also know that resident Orca whales in Puget Sound are dependent on a diet of the chinook salmon that make their way from stream beds like the ones we have here in Issaquah.”

Community benefitsSteiger tries to be more serious

when talking about the relationship between the city and the fish that are raised at her facility. She understands the importance of tourism and tries to return the favor by supporting local merchants.

She credits science and engineer-ing for overcoming the damage done

Enter your fishThe Issaquah Festivals Office

is accepting submissions of fine art, illustrations and/or graphic designs for potential “Salmon Days, salmon or Issaquah-oriented” print, promotions and/or festival gear consideration.

Submissions should be repre-sentative of Northwest salmon, Issaquah, local/regional scenery, Salmon Days and/or this year’s festival theme, “Streaming live.”

All styles and mediums of art suitable for high-quality reproduction are welcome. Submissions must be original/completed artwork not previ-ously used in other commercial reproduction. Artwork/artist selected compensated based upon usage/agreement.

Submit art for consideration to vendorinfo@SalmonDays.org no later than 5 p.m. July 1.

By Greg Farrar

Ryker Welke, 3, of Issaquah, with his grandmother Carolyn Whiting, holds his finished fish print at the Watershed Science Center as families enjoy educational displays during the hatchery’s 75th anniversary open house.

45

by the winter floods that scour the bottom of the river and eliminate the normal breeding grounds for the returning salmon. The floods, she said, are a result of the massive amount of pavement that covers over ground that would normally absorb rainwater.

The abundance of salmon ben-efits the community by purifying the water and eliminating many of the insects that normally swarm around bodies of water. She described the salmon as partners for the environ-ment.

Her job is not without its own laughs. Steiger smiled when she remembered the faces of the parents during her question-and-answer ses-sion with one classroom. One stu-dent asked why the fish have to die. Another asked innocently why the “Daddy fish need to add fertilizer to the eggs.”

“Sex and death,” Steiger said while cringing. “The two topics that make every parent squirm.”

Plans are under wayThe 2012 celebration of Salmon

Days attracted more than 180,000 visitors to the streets of Issaquah.

Plans for this year’s event include the annual parade on Gilman Boulevard, displays from an estimated 300 art-ists, 70 food booths and another 70 stands sponsored by nonprofit orga-nizations.

Kelley said returning vendors often request the same location year after year to better serve customers who do repeat business with them every October. More than two-thirds of the vendors from last fall have already applied to return. The wait list for commercial craft vendors gets longer every year.

“The answer to the question is yes: Vendors in the food court do serve salmon,” Kelley said.

According to Twiggs, Salmon Days attracts an average 150,000 people every year. The actual number each year is totally dependent on the unpredictable weather the first week-end of October.

The annual community celebra-tion dates back to the 1920s and ‘30s when Issaquah was the site for an authorized rodeo, according to Kelley. The party evolved along with the demographics of the city when the event was changed to commemorate Labor Day. The large

number of visitors from surrounding communities that came to Issaquah to watch the return of the chinook every October inspired the chamber to “offishally” rename the celebra-tion as Salmon Days in the late 1960s.

Like the namesake salmon, visitors to the community festival are often forced to swim upstream against traf-fic to find long-term parking. Well-marked park-and-shuttle lots will be established at the Issaquah Transit Center, downtown and from the parking lots of sponsoring businesses outside downtown.

With a wide smile, Kelley explained that Salmon Days has become synonymous with Issaquah. The lifecycle of the salmon and class-room visits to the salmon hatchery are part of the curriculum at every school in the area and the festival has connections with virtually every group in the city.

“Everybody knows at least one kid who marches in the parade. If you’re not participating through work or at school, then there is probably a sign-up sheet at your church,” Kelley said. “Salmon Days gets into your gills and under your scales.”

46

Step into one of Issaquah’s two history museums and take a break from the hustle and bustle of today’s modern world. Even before you enter, you get a sense of the town’s history from the buildings’ well-pre-served architectural styles.

The Gilman Town Hall Museum focuses on the general history of Issaquah, while the Issaquah Depot Museum specializes in the role the railroad played in the town, according to Erica Maniez, the director of the Issaquah History Museums. The museums are open to everyone, including families with children.

The Issaquah History Museums not only exhibit the artifacts and photographs of the town over the course of time, but also offers sev-eral free or inexpensive programs to the general public, such as a guided tour, a lecture series and other com-munity events. Upcoming events this summer include the Downtown History Hike, Heritage Day and a presentation about the life of Ben Legg.

Issaquah History Museums also presents the life of Ben Legg. He was Issaquah’s early resident who was titled as “Bad Ben Legg” by a newspaper after firing shots at his neighbors. The background stories about Ben Legg and his family rep-resent various aspects of the early days of Issaquah, including a labor organization, mining and logging industries at the time. Taking a closer look at the life of Ben Legg provides a greater scope of the his-tory of the town.

“This is a way to talk about how some of those events and trends affected actual people,” Maniez said. “It is taking a historic microscope and looking closely at one person, and seeing all the different historic factors that went into shaping his life and

figuring out what that tells us about Issaquah.”

The two museums in downtown Issaquah are about five minutes apart in walking distance. They attract about 7,000 visitors every year and have a collection of 8,000 artifacts and more than 10,000 photographs.

The Gilman Town Hall Museum (the city was once known as Gilman) served as town hall from 1898 until 1930. It housed offices for the mayor and city councilmen and also included a courtroom, library, poll-ing place, fire department, school-house and jail.

The two-cell jail is located at the back of the museum. It was actu-ally Issaquah’s second jail. Issaquah’s first jail — made of wood — posed a security threat when a group of loggers locked in the jail wearing hobnail boots were able to kick the jail down. The second one is made of concrete, with 8-inch walls and an iron lock bar that weighs about 80 pounds. The concrete jail was used from 1914 until 1930.

The Gilman Town Hall Museum also has a historic kitchen and antique utensils that visitors can touch. The museum also houses the David J. Horrocks Research Center for the public to use historical books, documents and photographs.

The Issaquah Depot Museum is another historical must-see in down-town Issaquah.

“The biggest thing to see in the depot is the depot itself, because it is restored to look the way it did in 1920s. The building itself is an exhib-it,” Maniez said.

The Issaquah Depot Museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and exhibits photo-graphs, artwork and artifacts related to its history. On the grounds outside are three historic trolleys. One of them may be in service soon.

Issaquah Depot, the former rail-way station, was built in 1889 as a passenger station and freight ware-house. The railroad and the depot hold significance to the Issaquah community since they contributed greatly to the development of the town in the late 1800s.

The Issaquah Depot Museum also offers a Family Activity Guide to make the most of the museum experience. This is kid-friendly and designed to stimulate activities and conversation while touring the Depot. The guide is available for a suggested donation of $1.

Each museum takes about an hour to complete the tour.

“History belongs to the commu-nity,” Maniez said.

Eunbi Cho is a student in the University of Washington Department of Communication News Laboratory.

46

HISTORY MUSEUMS

Revel in the city’s days of old at the history museums

BY EUNBI CHO

Where to goThe Gilman Town Hall Museumq 165 S.E. Andrews St.q Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Issaquah Depot Museumq 150 First Ave. N.E.q Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. q Additional summer hours (June 1 to Aug. 31), are from 4-8 p.m. Thursdays for free admission.

Admissionq $2 for adults/q $1 for childrenq $5 per family of three and moreq $10 for a family pass that gives all-day access to both museums. q Members of the Issaquah History Museums visit for free.q Learn more at www.issaquah history.org or call 392-3500.

The History Museum’s two-cell jail is located behind the Gilman Town Hall Museum.

47

48