Lights Lifted; Spirits Undimmed

✨Lights Lifted; Spirits Undimmed

Someone took our lights. More specifically, they lifted the electrical box and extension cord powering our brilliant, cheery lights in Downtown Issaquah Centennial Park and in front of Chicago Pastrami, presumably for money. First, I was disheartened. Then, I do what I usually do. I go for a walk through our historically hip downtown. Take the curves alongside Issaquah Creek, up into the foothills of Tiger Mountain. And I steep in the positive vibe of others. You will see the remainder tree lights through mid-February, and along Alder Street for a while longer.

The rope lights around the streetlamps remain year-round. Yes, this theft takes a bite out of the Downtown Issaquah Association’s (DIA) beautification funds. As a nonprofit, we carefully manage our coffers to fulfill our mission of cultivating a thriving Olde Town that builds community and celebrates our charm. But I am often reminded that Issaquah truly is its people. When this community get knocked down, someone always helps us up again with words and deeds.

 

When I spoke with our neighbors about what the lights mean to them, their words of joy put a spotlight on the spirit and hope of the Issaquah Community.

Here is a smattering of what the Lights of Hope mean to them:

“DIA did a great job. It gave my little girl something fun to see while in the car driving through front street every day. It was even a learning experience (from counting to recognizing each color in 2 different languages). Thank you! ~ Bella Petrovich

“Driving home from work exhausted and a little down, these lights never ceased to improve my mood. They are beautiful and highlight our important downtown corridor…very artistic!” ~ Faith McDevitt Likala

“Keep them up to at least Valentines Day. They represent hope and love!!!” ~ Donna Abbey

“I love our downtown lights, especially during these dark – literally and figuratively – times. They welcome me home.” ~ Alyson

“We love them! They add ambiance and elegance, and our customers love them!” ~ Rick and Riesa, owners of Montalcino.

“I can take my kids to Downtown Issaquah to see the lights instead of driving to Leavenworth. Holiday cheer while on COVID-staycation!” ~ Anna

“Our lights this year brought brightness and warmth to our little town. We need that more than ever this year. We especially loved the Shell Station and Horse!” ~ Kalley

“I really enjoy the lights and the joy they bring downtown. I also know the labor of love that went into bringing it all together. Thank you for making downtown a special place for the community.” ~ Melissa

“I love the lights, especially during these times of isolation. Whenever I drive down Front Street, they put a smile on my face.” ~ Kim

 

While a few may try to dampen our spirits, the year ahead for Downtown Issaquah holds so much promise.

If you haven’t noticed the colorful banners framing Sunset and Front Street from the North and South, take a walk to check them out. The new colors mimic the historic Shell Station — the most photographed site in Issaquah! It is a symbol of what we know: Issaquah is historic, yet timeless, small, but big of heart, tried, but true. We will continue to keep you abreast of downtown activities as COVID regulations shift. Be assured we will continue to keep our city vibrant and alive throughout 2021.

 

One thing to put on your calendars now:

Keep Issaquah Beautiful on Earth Day, Saturday, April 22. Based on the tremendous interest from volunteers and businesses, our goal is to continue this tradition on a quarterly basis. We are also talking to the city about re-enacting the popular Streatery again this year. Many of you are telling us you would love to see it open as soon as May. Thanks for your plea to resurrect it. Our businesses much appreciate it!

If you have ideas of how to help our community and businesses thrive, send us a note. Take a picture of your favorite beautification project, historic site, business. We will post them on our website and on social media for inspiration!

Hanging our lights takes time, heavy equipment, expense and hard work. Thank you to everyone involved!

 

Yours,
Christina

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