I find that every season has its special moments, when you are awed by something you haven’t seen before, even though you’ve passed it many times. Exploration always leads to new insights and different ways of seeing things.
Recently while out on a daily walk near Bear Haven (many locals know this as the bear-sighting spot off Issaquah-Hobart Road) I paused and admired the vibrant vine of concord grapes hidden on a well-worn path. They were sweet and poignant, as they reminded me of specialness of our town with all its marvels, large and small.
Like many of you, I can’t believe Fall is here. Summer flew by in a flurry of Alfresco on Front, Pedestrian Playground, Artisan Market, Music and Art strolls, Gas Station Blues, and so much more. Our downtown was alive with locals and tourists who were more than eager to share their love for our downtown, its businesses and myriad menus of exotic and American food.
The comment I hear the most, though, is how nice our people are. Especially when folks ran into one of the Downtown Issaquah Association’s volunteers (and they are everywhere!), they were welcomed with warmth and knowledge. The hundreds of volunteers who make everything happen are true ambassadors for our city, and I can’t thank them enough for all they do to make our downtown exceptional.
I’m excited about all the activities and yummy Fall foods we’re about to savor. Just as our spectacular Spring and Summer flower baskets harkened halcyon days, the annual Salmon Days, Pumpkin Harvest, Scarecrow, and Issaquah Goes Apples contests will bring cool, crisp weather, a rainbow of leaves, and new menu items at our restaurants with plenty of apple-inspired specials!
As we welcome Fall, I’d also like to welcome new faces (and facades) to our Historically Hip Downtown. Let’s welcome Christine Jarboe, manager of the new AAA Cruise and Travel. The office on Front Street is now open. Don’t just window shop the travel attire and accessories inside, stop in and say hello!
About the facades: Besides AAA, Downtown Issaquah soon will boast Fifty5 Sunset Café (ground level of the Masons building), and the Big Picture, in the historic Rogue Building, opening this Fall.
Finally, our businesses continue to need our support as more COVID-19 mandates are implemented on October 25. The new proof of vaccine order is going to require more of our restaurants when they are struggling to recoup from more than a year of pandemic destruction. Most of our downtown restaurants are family owned – a testament to our local charm. At the same time, they and their families need us.
Let’s stay healthy, supportive of local businesses, and enjoy the wonderment of what’s to come!
Until next time….
Christina
Author: DIA ED
Historically Hip Downtown