Downtown Issaquah is beautiful all times of the year, but I particularly love when the flowers start to bloom. Already the daffodils are peeking out and the trails are peppered with new life. So, I say phooey to Punxsutawney Phil: Spring is well on its way, and it is almost time for Downtown Issaquah Association’s annual Flowers on Front program. When you drive down Front from Spring late into Fall, our light poles are adorned with stunning flower baskets grown by Squak Mountain Nursery. Thankfully, someone other than me takes care of the watering and fertilizing to keep them fresh for the duration.
Each year, the Downtown Issaquah Association campaigns to raise funds for the baskets and maintenance. People donate the spectacular blooms in honor of their mother for Mother’s Day, or another special person. Some do so just to drape their town in gorgeousness. Of course, we could not hang the baskets without our committed volunteers. Last year dedicated volunteers hung and removed 50 baskets, which can weigh up to 100 pounds each!
When the call for donations opens (stay tuned for timing), you may contribute any sum. At a $50 level or more, we will send a card for a loved one conveying that the basket is hung in their honor. The donation is tax deductible! We are so grateful for all your contributions to beautifying our Historically Hip Downtown. It is because of you that we maintain our charm.
Above: Last year’s Flowers on Front line the Historic Shell garage, ready for hanging.
Above: Olga Bolgar, an oil painting professional, captures our beauty in lasting color.
“I Paint Flowers So They Will Not Die.” — Frida Kahlo
The beauty of Downtown Issaquah is evident in all forms of art. We are a Creative Arts District for good reason. It is not unusual for us to experience art in the making. Olga Bolgar, a Plein Air artist, is often seen creating oil paintings of our community in expressive splendor. She began her professional education in her native Russia and now lives and works in Issaquah. “My sphere of interest as an artist is people and everything connected to them: figure, portrait, interiors and cityscapes,” she said. One of her favorite subjects is the Historic Shell Station.
Thanks, Olga, for sharing your vision of beauty with your Issaquah friends!
February is Rife with Happenings
Issaquah History Museums is sharing compelling history for Black History Month. Thanks to Erica Maniez for researching local heroes.
More Notables:
? Valentine’s Day – Boehm’s candies are always a hit. Or visit Art by Fire for a hand-made heart.
? National Carrot Cake Day – Forest Fairy Bakery has the best!
? National Golden Retriever Day – Downtown Issaquah has the sidewalks and trails to satisfy these beautiful pups.
? Chinese New Year – Macky Dim Sum is among our favorites.
Happy Birthday Bill!
Finally, Happy Birthday to Bill Frisinger, our local celebrated volunteer and Issaquah treasure. He never says “No.” He always wants to do more, never complains, and is inspires others all the while. Pressure washing? Yes. Harvesting pumpkins? Yes. Donating his vehicles for the Streatery and other local activities? Yes. Believe it or not, he once counted all the lights and listed with exactness those that had burned out. Bill and his wife Ava, formerly Issaquah mayor, moved to Issaquah from Michigan 54 years ago. He is someone who truly represents We Love Local.
And we ? you, Bill.
Above: If you see Bill Frisinger around historic downtown
(as you often will), say “Happy Birthday!”
Christina
Christina, a long time Olde Town resident, is well versed in all things Issaquah. She is the president of the Historically Hip Downtown Issaquah Association, and ubiquitous greeter of all who enter downtown.
Comments? Email Christina at president@downtownissaquah.com
Author: DIA ED
Historically Hip Downtown