City Guides November 29, 2017

Your Guide to Mill Creek Community Events All Year Long

If there is one thing that Mill Creek does right, it’s hosting amazing community events. From 5K charity runs and holiday happenings to fun festivals and solemn ceremonies, Mill Creek does it all and then some!

Here is your complete guide to upcoming 2017-2018 community events in Mill Creek:

SEPTEMBER

Run with Heart

  • Where: McCollum Park (600 128th St. S.E. Everett, WA 98204)
  • 2017 Dates & Times: September 16; 7:30am-10:45am

Grab your best pair of tennis shoes and join the community in the 5th annual Run with Heart, benefiting the Ironheart Foundation and Colton’s Army. This event offers a 5K, 8K, Kids 1K, and Toddler Dash races, so the whole family can compete, have fun, and support two wonderful non-profit organizations. Click here to register today.


OCTOBER

Treats on Main Street

  • Where: Town Center (1/2 mile north of S.W. 164th St. on Bothell Everett Hwy. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
  • 2017 Dates & Times: October 31; 4:30pm-6:30pm

Bring all of your little ghouls and goblins down to Mill Creek Town Center for some fun trick-or-treating. “The merchants at the Town Center…participate in handing out treats to children,” Travis DeFries explains. Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, you will definitely enjoy this event.


Trunk or Treat

  • Where: City Hall North Parking Lot (15728 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
  • 2017 Dates & Times: October 31; 6:30pm-8:00pm

After hitting up the Town Center on Halloween, head to City Hall and continue the fun at Travis’ other suggested event. “At Halloween, they [Mill Creek] host[s] a “Trunk or Treat” event at City Hall where the city employees decorate their vehicles parked throughout the parking lot and hand out treats to kids as they walk by.” A safe and fun alternative to traditional trick-or-treating, this is one annual event you will not want to miss.


NOVEMBER

Veteran’s Day Ceremony & Parade

  • Where: Ceremony: Mill Creek Veterans Monument (15429 Bothell Everett Hwy. Mill Creek, WA 98012); Parade: LA Fitness (15024 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)-City Hall (15720 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
  • 2017 Dates & Times: November 11; Ceremony: 9:00am; Parade: 11:00am

Come out on November 11 and honor those who have fought for our freedom. According to Travis, “the city…has a yearly Veteran’s Day Parade. There is a large monument area to honor its veterans and it is located just south of the Mill Creek Library on Bothell-Everett Hwy.” With a ceremony at the monument before the parade, this event is the perfect way to show your support for our nation’s armed forces.


DECEMBER

Santa Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony

  • Where: Santa Parade: LA Fitness (15024 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)-City Hall (15720 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012); Tree Lighting: City Hall (15720 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
  • 2017 Dates & Times: December 2; Santa Parade: TBD; Tree Lighting: 4:00pm

When the holiday season rolls around, Mill Creek celebrates in style. “Around Christmas time, the city has a Santa Parade and Tree Lighting ceremony that is a lot of fun,” Travis shares. Past events have included complimentary train rides for the kids, pictures with Santa before the parade, and other activities provided by the merchants in Town Center. Keep your eyes peeled for more information about this year’s rendition of this yuletide favorite.


APRIL

Flashlight Egg Hunt

  • Where: Heatherwood Middle School (1419 Trillium Blvd. S.E. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
  • 2018 Dates & Times: TBD

Let your teens get in on the Easter fun at Mill Creek’s annual Flashlight Egg Hunt. Students from 6th-12th grade can bring a flashlight and scour Heatherwood Middle School for candy and other fun prizes while listening to today’s top radio hits. This year’s hunt has already passed, but stay tuned for more information on this event for next year.


Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt

  • Where: Heatherwood Middle School Field (1419 Trillium Blvd. S.E. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
  • 2018 Dates & Times: TBD

A Mill Creek Easter tradition, families love coming together for the Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt. Over 18,000 eggs are spread out across multiple egg hunts and there is also face painting, balloon animals, music, fire truck tours, bounce houses, and a special visit from the Easter Bunny himself. Check back in 2018 for updated information on this festive event.


MAY

Memorial Day Commemorative Ceremony & Parade

  • Where: Ceremony: Mill Creek Veterans Monument (15429 Bothell Everett Hwy. Mill Creek, WA 98012); Parade: LA Fitness (15024 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)-City Hall (15720 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
  • 2018 Dates & Times: May 28; Ceremony: 9:00am, Parade: 11:00am

Join the community on May 28 to pay respects to those who have given their lives for our country at Mill Creek’s Memorial Day Commemorative Ceremony & Parade. The event kicks off with a ceremony at the Veterans Monument featuring remarks by the mayor, a prayer from the police chaplain, a laying of a wreath, and more, and continues with the parade. Pay remembrance to a group of brave men and women at this touching event.


JUNE

Summer Art Walks

  • Where: Town Center (1/2 mile north of S.W. 164th St. on Bothell Everett Hwy. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
  • 2018 Dates & Times: June 7, July 12, August 9; 5:00pm-8:00pm

Explore the talent of the local community at Mill Creek’s annual Summer Art Walks. Stroll through Town Center, visit local artists and businesses, and observe a variety of art forms from photography to jewelry and even music. Free for all, this event is a great way to connect with the creative minds that make Mill Creek a beautiful place to live.


Run of the Mill

  • Where: In the Mill Creek Town Center (15418 Main Street, Mill Creek WA 98012)
  • 2018 Dates & Times: TBD

Enjoy some healthy competition at Mill Creek’s Run of the Mill 5K. “This is…becoming a very popular 5K run/walk that attracts the highest of competitors from the area, along with parents pushing their children in strollers,” says Travis. “All proceeds are donated to local charities! This event is normally held the end of June each year.” Keep your eyes on the Run of the Mill website for more information on registration for 2018.


JULY

3-on-3 Star Fest Basketball Tournament

  • Where: Mill Creek City Hall Annex Parking Lot (15720 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
  • 2018 Dates & Times: July 7-8; Time is TBD

Unleash your inner basketball star at Mill Creek’s 3-on-3 Star Fest Basketball Tournament. “…The city hosts a very popular outdoor 3-on-3 basketball tournament for participants of all ages and abilities,” Travis shares. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or still learning the ropes, you can have a great time at this event. Check the website for updates on registration for 2018.


Mill Creek Festival

  • Where: Part of Mill Creek Blvd. behind Albertsons, Heading up a Portion of 161st Between Bank of America and Rite Aid (for full festival map, click here)
  • 2018 Dates & Times: July 14 11:00am-6:00pm; July 15 11:00am-5:00pm

No city is complete without an annual summer festival and Mill Creek is no exception. “One weekend each July, the city hosts the Mill Creek Festival and it is quickly becoming a hot ticket item,” shares Travis. “There are several stages set up around the festival to host music, a community stage with family friendly acts and even a large pet plaza! There are also over 50 vendors for shopping and eating opportunities!” If you want a sample of what Mill Creek has to offer, you will find that and so much more at this fabulous event.  


Summer Children’s Concerts

  • Where: Library Park (15429 Bothell-Everett Hwy. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
  • 2018 Dates & Times: Wednesdays in July & August; 12:00pm-1:00pm

If you want a fun summer event for your little one, look no further than the Summer Children’s Concerts at Library Park. Featuring four concerts over four weeks full of music, laughs, and entertainment for all ages, this event is sure to make for a memorable afternoon picnic for the whole family.


AUGUST

National Night Out

  • Where: Buffalo Park (13401 44th Ave. S.E. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
  • 2018 Dates & Times: August 7; 5:30pm-8:30pm

Working to build communities across the country, National Night Out is a campaign that promotes police-community partnerships, camaraderie among neighbors, and the development of safer, more caring communities overall. Block parties, cookouts, and other events are hosted throughout local neighborhoods and feature visits from emergency personnel, safety demonstrations, exhibits, and more. Mill Creek’s National Night Out is being held at Buffalo Park on August 7, so come out and show your support for local law enforcement and healthy neighborhood building at this event.



City Guides November 29, 2017

Your Guide to the Town Center at Lake Forest Park

More than just a mall, the Town Center at Lake Forest Park is where the community comes together to share and indulge in all of the fun and convenience the area has to offer. From food to shopping and other services, this is your one-stop spot!

Here is your go-to guide to the Town Center at Lake Forest Park:

FOOD

If you’re looking to satisfy your hunger, the diverse food options at the Town Center will do the trick. Make a caffeine run to Starbucks and enjoy the scenery: “The neighborhood ducks are a fun attraction when they visit,” says Bernice Whitney. You can also stop by the Third Place Booksfood court and check out Claudette Meyer’s recommended spot, the Honey Bear Bakery: “[I often] meet a friend or client for lunch at the Honey Bear Bakery, which serves up wholesome, delicious sandwiches (my favorite is the BLTA) and delectable large slices of cake,” she shares. “Honey Bear is one of three restaurants in the comfortable Third Place Commons located within the book store,” so no matter what you’re craving, you are guaranteed to find something you love. For a complete list of the restaurants in the Town Center, click here.

SHOPPING

With the holidays around the corner, the Town Center is your go-to for finding that perfect gift. “Mud Bay in [the] Lake Forest [Park] Town Center has my attention these days,” Bernice shares. “It is a great place to bring your pet while shopping for that something special or that top of the line food product. The customer service is so helpful and friendly.” She adds that “[Town Center] Hardware is another really fun place. “They have pretty much something of everything.”

Claudette loves “stopping in at Third Place Books… where you can study, eat, read, play (there’s a small play area for toddlers), or just watch people come and go. A truly wonderful community gathering space!” A final shoutout goes to the Avid Angler, the premier shop for your fly fishing needs. Wherever your interests lie, you’re bound to find something that catches your attention!

SERVICES

The Town Center offers more than just food and shopping—there are also great services you can take advantage of. Pamper yourself with an appointment at A Better Day Salon, where you can get a haircut, facial, massage, and more. Plan your next vacation at the Expedia Cruise Ships Center, or bring your laundry to the Forest Park Cleaners. There are also medical and financial services available, so whatever you may need is at your fingertips!

For updates on sales, discounts, and events, check out the Town Center at Lake Forest Park Facebook page.


City Guides November 29, 2017

Lake Forest Park: A Guide to the Best Parks & Outdoor Activities

If you’re an outdoor lover, you’re bound to love the opportunities that await in Lake Forest Park! Located right along Lake Washington, “the hilly topography …translates into many homes enjoying [views of the] Cascade Mountains, or verdant territorial views, and some with Lake Washington views, too,” shares Claudette Meyer. From catching these stunning views to enjoying some local amenities, you’re sure to find something to suit your every mood, whether you want to go out for a day of adventure or simply relax with a pretty view.

Here is our guide to the best parks & outdoor activities in Lake Forest Park:


PARKS ALONG LAKE WASHINGTON

*NOTE: All parks are open from dawn-dusk daily.*

Grace Cole Nature Park

  • Located at 30th Ave. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

For a peek at the wildlife that makes up Lake Forest Park, check out the Grace Cole Nature Park. A wetland teeming with native plants, birds, and amphibians, it is a crucial habitat and a valuable resource for nature lovers.


Pfingst Animal Acres Park

  • Located at 17435 Brookside Blvd. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

Another great spot to catch nature in action is at the Pfingst Animal Acres Park. If you stop by the edge of the park, you’ll have a perfect view of the salmon as they swim through McAleer Creek. With unique amenities like a metal dogwood flower drinking fountain, this is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

 


Horizon View Park

  • Located at 19845-20099 47th Ave. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

Affectionately nicknamed “Choo-Choo Park,” Horizon View Park is your all-purpose space. Enjoy a picnic, hike through the wooded areas, or join your kid for a ride on the play train.


Lyon Creek Waterfront Preserve

  • Located at 17337 Beach Dr. N.E. Poulsbo, WA 98370

For a moment of quiet contemplation, nothing beats looking out at the waters at the Lyon Creek Waterfront Preserve. Containing 100 feet of Lake Washington shoreline and 250 feet of Lyon Creek, it’s one of the most peaceful parks around.


Eagle Scout Park

  • Located at 3715 N.E. 180th St. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

Owned by the Lake Forest Park Civic Club, Eagle Scout Park is perfect for those who are looking for a good workout. Take a break from running and stretch your muscles on their exercise bars while you let the little ones run wild on the play toy!


Blue Heron Park

  • Located at 17043 Brookside Blvd. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

A hidden gem at a busy intersection, Blue Heron Park is filled with lush native landscaping and primitive pathways lined with lovely plants. Stop by to view the salmon and look out for herons; you may see them fishing for lunch!


Whispering Willow Park

  • Located at 17038 44th Ave. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

Acquired in 2011, Whispering Willow Park is in the perfect location to help restore the water quality and habitat of Lyon Creek. Located right next to Lake Forest Park’s Town Center, this park is a diamond in the rough that cannot be missed.


BEACH CLUBS

Lake Forest Park Civic Club

  • Located at 17301 Beach Dr. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA  98155

With gorgeous scenic views and events the whole family will love, the Lake Forest Civic Club is definitely worth checking out. “The Civic Club is well known with plenty of surrounding homes being deeded in,” says Casey Bui. If you’re interested in all the Civic Club has to offer, submit a membership application today.

Sheridan Beach Community Club

  • Located at 16500 Shore Dr. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

With a swim team, water polo, and other aquatic programs, the Sheridan Beach Club is perfect for those who love the water and want to be more involved. “[The] lesser known…Sheridan Beach Club…provides excellent amenities, shore access, a pool and most importantly, a heightened sense of community,” says Casey. “If you’re looking for it all in LFP, the Beach Club is where you should start.”


THE BEST WAYS TO GET AROUND

Burke-Gilman Trail

When it comes to commuting through Lake Forest Park to surrounding communities, the preferred method of travel may not be what you’d expect. “Lake Forest Park residents predominantly rely on car & bus for their commutes to Seattle or the Eastside,” Claudette shares. “However, with convenient access to a 2-mile stretch of the Burke-Gilman Trail that passes through the city, there is a robust population of residents that commute into Seattle by bicycle, and particularly work centers such as the University of Washington & Children’s Hospital.”

If you’re looking to cut down on gas costs, help the planet, and enjoy some great views on your way to work, grab your bike and start pedaling!

McKinnon Creek Trail

If you’re in the mood for getting around on foot, the McKinnon Creek Trail is going to be the best spot to check out. A 0.5 mile forested trail located about half a mile northwest of City Hall, it’s perfect for everything from a short jog to a slow-and-steady hike.

For more tips on how you can enjoy the outdoors in Lake Forest Park, click here.


City Guides November 29, 2017

4 Tips for Meeting Your Neighbors & Connecting with the Community in Lake Forest Park

If you’re new to Lake Forest Park or are just looking to try something new, Lake Forest Park offers some wonderful ways to connect with others in the community. From the bustling Commons to private clubs, an opportunity waits around every corner!

Here are 4 tips for meeting your neighbors and connecting with the community in Lake Forest Park:


Third Place Commons

  • Located at 17171 Bothell Way N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155
  • Hours: 7:00am-9:00pm Monday-Thursday; 7:00am-10:00pm Friday-Saturday; 7:00am-8:00pm Sunday

If you want to get involved but don’t know where to begin, check out the Third Place Commons. “Third Place Commons…[is] where you can study, eat, read, play (there’s a small play area for toddlers), or just watch people come and go,” shares Claudette Meyer. “[It’s] a truly wonderful community gathering space!”

Every Sunday (Mother’s Day-mid-October) from 10:00am-3:00pm, they host their Farmers Market, with local vendors selling some of the best food, flowers, and plants around. It’s the perfect way to get acquainted with the talent that makes this city thrive.

If you’re looking for more involvement, the LFP Garden Club meets in the Commons on the 2nd Tuesday of each month from September-May. With knowledgeable speakers from all walks of gardening life, this club is a great way to snag some tips while meeting your friends and neighbors.


Lake Forest Park Civic Club

  • Located at 17301 Beach Dr. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

Providing a family-friendly environment for members and guests, the Lake Forest Park Civic Club is a private waterfront oasis where you can enjoy scenic views and connect with the community as you wish. “The Civic Club is well known with plenty of surrounding homes being deeded in,” says Casey Bui. If you want to experience this club for yourself, submit your membership application today.


Sheridan Beach Community Club

  • Located at 16500 Shore Dr. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

For a little bit of everything, check out the Sheridan Beach Community Club. “ [The] lesser known…Sheridan Beach Club…provides excellent amenities, shore access, a pool and most importantly, a heightened sense of community,” Casey shares. With swimming lessons, a swim team, and so much more, “if you’re looking for it all in LFP, the Beach Club is where you should start.”


Recreation Partnership with the City of Shoreline

Offering extensive recreation options, the partnership between Lake Forest Park and the city of Shoreline gives Lake Forest Park residents discounted access to all-ages classes, workshops, camps, memberships, and enrichment programs. LFP residents receive an 8% discount on program fees and early registration before other non-Shoreline residents. You can get the whole family involved!

Other partnerships: Other partnerships with Lake Forest Park include: Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council, the Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Center, and Hang Time.


City Guides November 29, 2017

11 *Stunning* Photos That Show Off Lake Forest Park’s Natural Beauty

Treasured in part for its stunning natural beauty, Lake Forest Park is nestled right along the shores of Lake Washington. Home to parks, trails, and of course the shimmering lake, gorgeous natural scenes are aplenty in this lovely community!

Below, we wanted to show off some of our favorite photos of this special neighborhood from Instagram:


1. Beautiful view of Lake Washington from Lake Forest Park:

2. Lake Forest Park is extra photogenic in the summertime!

3. Autumn perfection at Animal Acres Park:

4. Horizon View Park is one of this community’s many idyllic parks. Click here for our guide to outdoor activities in Lake Forest Park!

5. Another scenic spot at Horizon View Park:

5. One of the many water sports you can take advantage of on Lake Washington:

6. A snapshot of lakeside living in Lake Forest Park:

7. One of the many stunning views:

8. Heading out for a day on the water? Get your cameras ready!

9. Perfect picnic scenery:

10. A gorgeous sunrise over Lake Washington is truly a lovely way to start the day:

11. The mountain is out!


City Guides November 29, 2017

The 5 Best Things About Living in South Everett

What’s so great about living in South Everett? There are several reasons why people choose to call South Everett “home,” and we asked locals what they love about the area so much. Here’s what they shared:


1. Quick access to Boeing and Paine Field.

As local Heather Potts points out, South Everett’s easy access to Boeing is definitely a perk of living in the area! This location will only become more desirable when Alaska Airlines starts running commercial flights from Paine Field in fall of 2018. For those in the area who have to head to SeaTac often, this will be a *huge* timesaver.

2. Several great transit options.

In addition to upcoming commercial flights, South Everett already has several excellent transportation options whether or not you have a car. With access to several freeways (including Interstate-5), local and regional bus routes, the Sounder Train (find stations in nearby Mukilteo and of course in Everett), and the light rail expansion, getting around the area just keeps getting easier. Having options like the train and light trail (in the future!) make it so you don’t even have to deal with car traffic, a definite bonus as our highways become more and more congested. (Be sure to take advantage of these South Everett commuting tips!)

3. Nice neighborhoods with affordability.

According to local Brian Hayter, South Everett is a top choice for many people due to its “nice neighborhoods and affordability.” As Zillow reports, the median home price in Everett is $337,700 (August 2017). With prices steadily increasing, it’s significantly more affordable than nearby cities like Seattle (with a median home price of $690,200 for August 2017).

4. Unique outdoor opportunities.

Many people don’t know all that South Everett has to offer, and this includes some unique outdoor activities! Local Jen Bowman especially loves McCollum Pioneer Park: “McCollum Park is a fabulous Park and Ride but there are other unique amenities including an outdoor seasonal pool, BMX park, and walking trails linking to Mill Creek Town Center. For even more tips on what to do outdoors, don’t miss our Outdoor Lover’s Guide to South Everett!

5.  There’s tons of great shopping!

…And we really mean *tons*. Costco and T.J. Maxx are Heather Potts’ favorite places to stop by, but no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll probably be able to find it in South Everett. The Everett Mall is packed with shopping, dining, services, and entertaining, and here you’ll find Regal Cinemas, LA Fitness, Bed Bath & Beyond, PetSmart, Best Buy, Sears, and so much more. Nearby you’ll also find Walmart, Target, WinCo, not to mention several sit-down restaurants and fast food options!


City Guides November 29, 2017

Live in South Everett? Here’s What You Need to Know About Commuting

Many people choose to live in South Everett for its central location, affordability, and great commuting options. According to local Heather Potts, it’s “Close enough to the city and the I-405 interchange yet far enough to feel like you’ve somewhat escaped!” She also shares that it’s a “Quick commute up north if you’re headed to Lake Stevens or Bellingham.”

Whether you work at Boeing or need to commute into Seattle for work, we have several commuting tips to share. From taking the train or bus to developments you can expect in the future, here are a few things you need to know:

  • Easy access to highways, including Interstate-5 and Highway 99.

No matter where you live in South Everett, you’re never more than a few minutes away from highways if you’re getting around by car. Both Interstate-5 and Highway 99 conveniently run right through the area, and 526 and 525 cut through the area as well.

  • The Sounder Train has stops in Everett Station and in Mukilteo.

The Sounder Train runs from Everett all the way south to Lakewood (just past Tacoma), presenting another excellent commuting option that helps you avoid roads altogether (a definite perk during rush hour)! While the Sounder typically only runs in the mornings and afternoons on weekdays, it also runs when there are big weekend events going on, like Mariners or Seahawks games. Avoid the hassle of parking and traffic if you’re heading to a game! You can plan your trip on the Sounder here.

  • South Everett Freeway Station Park & Ride

Located at I-5 & 112th Street S.E., Everett, this handy park and ride includes 399 parking spaces in addition to bike racks and lockers. Park and catch the 510, 512, or 532 buses, and various Everett Transit buses as well. Learn more about the freeway station here, and check out 510 and 512 bus routes into Seattle here.

  • Everett Transit

Everett has its own transit system for navigating the city, and there are several stops for your convenience! From routes and schedules to tips on planning your journey, EverettTransit.org has everything you’ll need to know to take advantage of this great community amenity.

  • Biking in Everett

Featuring a maze of convenient trails in addition to the Interurban Trail, biking is a popular way to exercise or just get around Everett. There is an extensive network of bike trails, and the popular Interurban Trail runs north and south. You can see a map of the Snohomish County portion of the trail here. For a map of all of the bike trails and the Interurban Trail in Everett, click here!

  • Light Rail Expansion

It’s still awhile out, but the light rail is coming to South Everett with a projected completion in 2036. Currently, the light rail runs from Angle Lake (just past SeaTac) to University of Washington. There are stops planned at Southwest Everett Industrial Center, SR 526/Evergreen and Everett Station in the future! (There is also a provisional station, at SR 99/Airport Road, but this stop can only happen if additional funding is acquired.) Click here to see an interactive map of the plan!

  •  Commercial Flights out of Paine Field

In the fall of 2018, Alaska Airlines will begin offering commercial flights out of Paine Field! Alaska Airlines will begin announcing flight routes in early 2018, so stay tuned. You can learn all about this new service here.


City Guides November 29, 2017

Your Guide to Making the Most of a Day at Silver Lake in South Everett

Make your day at Silver Lake memorable with our go-to guide. From parks, to picnics, to dining, we have your scoop on not-to-miss spots.

Here’s our guide to making the most of a day at Silver Lake in South Everett:


PARKS

For a getaway by the lake, check out Hauge Homestead Park. A picnic pavilion, waterfront access for fishing, and a soon-to-be new playground make it a great place to unwind. Another urban oasis is the popular Thornton A. Sullivan Park. “This park at Silver Lake is the perfect home base for an afternoon of fun at the lake,” says Jen Bowman. “Plenty of shade, playground equipment, and covered pavilions. This non-motorized lake is perfect for kayaking and paddle boarding!”

Janet Buehler agrees, saying “I love Silver Lake Park. Excellent facilities for big or small events at Fort Patterson and great big huge place for kids to play. Paddle boarding kayak and tubing!” A final spot that’s worth checking out is Green Lantern Park. From spots to catch bass to a tot lot for the youngsters, this park has something for everyone.


PICNIC GRUB

Across the street from Green Lantern Park is a shopping center with local eateries perfect for grabbing picnic food. For a seafood lunch, Sushi Ringserves up nigiri, hand rolls, and other sushi that will satisfy your craving. If you have a sweet tooth, the L’Artisan French Bakery has tarts, eclairs, and cakes that transport you to Paris. Fans of Chinese cuisine need to check out the homemade selections at China Dumpling & Noodle House. With a line that’s often wrapped around the building, it’s a local favorite. Another top spot is Viet Thai Cuisine Noodle Bar. Quality pho and curry dishes make it a go-to for adding some kick to your picnic. Finally, on chillier days, stop by the Safeway Starbucks and pick up a coffee before walking along the lake. You’ll love it!


LAKESIDE DINING

When night falls, enjoy it at Emory’s on Silver Lake. “Emory’s…is my favorite place for great happy hour with a beautiful, sunny patio in South Everett,” says Jen. “They also have live music in the bar, so check their website for details. They also have a banquet room in case you need to host an event! The main restaurant is lined with windows to take advantage of the western facing lake views.” It’s the perfect end to a day at Silver Lake!


City Guides November 29, 2017

The Outdoor Lover’s Guide to South Everett

The great outdoors are calling! Gorgeous parks, opportunities for golfing, and farms are all in the mix—adventures await!

Here’s a look at the outdoor lover’s guide to South Everett:


GOLF

For local golfers looking to practice their skills, no place is better than Jen and Brian Hayter’s pick. “Columbia Super Range is the best spot to work on your golf game,” says Jen. “Located just east of I-5 on 128th, it’s easy to stop and hit a bucket of balls on your way home! Open til 10pm in the summer!” Or, if you just want a relaxing space to play a couple rounds, the Walter E. Hall Golf Course offers a tranquil forest setting and stunning views of the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. No matter which course you pick, you will be treated to a top-notch experience that will make you want to return again and again.


PARKS

There’s certainly no shortage of great local parks to enjoy while out and about in the South Everett area. For example, Jen shares that “McCollum [Pioneer] Park is a fabulous Park and Ride but there are other unique amenities including an outdoor seasonal pool, BMX park, and walking trails linking to Mill Creek Town Center.” Sports fans can also head over to Kasch Park and catch a game of softball, Little League, soccer, or lacrosse.

Searching for something extra adventurous? Jen also recommends High Trek Adventures at the Paine Field Community Park. Rope obstacle courses and ziplining offers something new and exciting to try out, and with over 60 challenges to try, you can keep coming back to try something new! (It’s also a great place for corporate events or parties!)

Finally, those with four-legged friends can bring them down to Loganberry Lane Park to enjoy the wooded trails off-leash. There really is something for everyone at these parks!


FARMS

According to Jen Bowman, “In the fall, South Everett residents head down the hill to the Snohomish River Valley where pumpkin patches, hay mazes, and harvest fun can be had!” One farm in particular to take advantage of all of this fun at is the nearby Farm at Swan’s Trail. A 50-acre pumpkin patch, the Washington State Corn Maze, wagon rides, and much more promise a great time for the whole family. For adults and older kids, the Thomas Family Farm features unique nighttime activities like zombie paintball, a haunted house, and a flashlight corn maze. It’s only the best way to spend this spooky time of year in the South Everett area.


Newsletter November 28, 2017

What Does Median Price Buy You In Each Area?

Most recently, the Seattle Times published an article about Seattle being the hottest real estate market in the country. This phenomenon has been taking place for over a year and experts don’t see this slowing down. According to the Case-Schiller Index, over the last 5 years since the market started to recover from the downturn, there has been an 80% increase in prices! I thought it would be interesting to take a look at the median price in each of our market areas to illustrate the price differentiation and affordability. If you are curious how this increase relates to your home, please contact me. It is my goal to help keep my clients informed and empower strong decisions.
North Snohomish County
Sale Price:  $380,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  3/2
Square Footage:  1,551
Year over Year Appreciation:  13%
South Snohomish County
Sale Price:  $500,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 3/1.75
Square Footage:  1,784
Year over Year Appreciation:  14%
North King County
Sale Price:  $715,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  3/1.75
Square Footage:  1,980
Year over Year Appreciation:  14%
Seattle Metro
Sale Price:  $725,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  3/1.75
Square Footage:  1,780
Year over Year Appreciation:  14%
Eastside
Sale Price:  $855,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  4/2.5
Square Footage:  2,170
Year over Year Appreciation:  14%
South King County
Sale Price:  $400,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  3/3.75
Square Footage:  2,400
Year over Year Appreciation:  13%
Windermere Foundation Quarterly Update
I am excited to share the most recent update from the Windermere Foundation. Thanks to the generosity of Windermere agents and the community, the Windermere Foundation collected over $1,537,000 in donations through the third quarter of 2017. This is an increase of nine percent compared to this time last year! Individual contributions and fundraisers accounted for 62 percent of the donations, while 38 percent came from donations through Windermere agent commissions. So far, we have raised a total of $34,643,324 in donations since 1989.

Each Windermere office has its own Windermere Foundation fund account that they use to make donations to organizations in their communities. Year to date, a total of $1,179,202 has been disbursed to non-profit organizations dedicated to providing services to low-income and homeless families throughout the Western U.S. Check out my office’s specific contributions below!

Through the Windermere Foundation, my office had the privilege to donate $13,360 this year to YMCA Camp Orkila and Colman; sending 40 kids to summer camp that would not have otherwise had the opportunity. This past spring, we also spent a full day helping the Snohomish Garden Club provide thousands of pounds of fresh produce to local food banks, and this holiday season we will be able to provide approximately 24 foster boys a plentiful Christmas morning and give full holiday dinners to families receiving aid from Pioneer Human Services. These are all causes that are close to my heart, and I am so glad to partner with an office that strives to make a difference.

If you would like to help give back to your community, you can do so through the Windermere Foundation here.

Happy Holidays!