Advertise on podcast: This Week in Kirkland

Send us a text The City of Kirkland’s own Charlie Shannon tells how vendors can apply to join this summer’s Juanita Friday Market while we dream up fresh possibilities. We also learn about new firefighters, the upcoming orientation for Green Kirkland stewards, what happened at the last council meeting, and what events are coming up in February. Plus, we share our gratitude for Kirkland blood donors and announce how to enter to win a luxury hotel stay and roundtrip airfare to Maui. Shownotes: www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20260205

Send us a text Kirkland library experts Meredith Selfon and Amy Faulkner give us the inside scoop on local library resources that might surprise you, from Mandarin story times and crafternoons to snagging bestsellers and accessing newspapers from around the globe.  We also learn the importance of donating blood, why practicing a fire escape plan is critical for saving lives, and how to help kids through the LINKS program. Plus, we look ahead to the next council meeting and highlight fun upcoming events. Shownotes: www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20260129

Send us a text City of Kirkland’s own special projects coordinator Christian Lash tells us why the Kirkland Workshops and Pitch Competition offer a kinder, gentler shark tank and a prime opportunity for current and aspiring businesses. We also learn about Conversations with Council, the rules of the road for electric bikes and scooters, and how to reduce food waste. Plus, we get a recap of the latest council meeting, hear about fun upcoming events, and draw the lucky winner of Woodinville Wine Country wine tasting passports. Shownotes: www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20260122

Send us a text Adam Acampora breezes in from nearby Woodinville Wine Country to talk all about the wine and wonders of the Eastside. We also talk emergency prep, the importance of donating blood, how to win with the Recycle Right Pledge, what’s coming up at Council, and look ahead to fun events in February.  Show notes: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20260115

Send us a text Special Projects Coordinator and This Week in Kirkland podcast regular Kate Ryan joins us to highlight the many volunteer opportunities in Kirkland including the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service coming up on January 19. We also learn why it’s important to license Fido and Fluffy, how to send Christmas trees off to become compost, and why we “otter” look for wildlife in Kirkland’s parks. Plus, we recap the first city council meeting of the year and share some fun upcoming events including the winter drive-in movie series. Show notes: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20260108

Send us a text Our amazing podcast production team pulled together some of our favorite interview moments from 2025.  Hear harrowing tales from a wildland firefighter, quirky stories about animals on the loose in Kirkland, and what it took to become iconic voices in sportscasting and popular music.  Enjoy!

Send us a text Education and Outreach Coordinator Marisa Allison from Kirkland’s Public Works Department joins us to talk about rainwater, water quality, counting bugs, and her flock of fowl.  We also share tips for preventing porch pirates, take some e-bike savvy for a spin, and chat about why composting holiday trees is the noble thing to do. Show notes: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20251218

Send us a text We’re joined by former Kirkland mayor and current state representative Larry Springer who gives us a full-bodied look at what happens in the legislature. We also hear why people are flocking to cross the street with the Seahawks mascot, get tips for packing our cars for winter weather, and learn about holiday trees for salmon. Plus, we recap the recent jam-packed council meeting and list holiday events that will keep you jingling all the way. Show notes: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20251211

Send us a text We are joined by Dave Tomson of SRM Development who illuminates us on Google Lights which opens December 5 at Feriton Spur Park.  We shine light on the many festivities brightening Kirkland including a “ribbon scramble,” ice skating, the 12Ks of Christmas, the Grand Menorah Lighting, and community bonfires. Plus, we share ideas for spreading joy this season.  Show notes: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20251204

Send us a text Cassie Joyner and Leanna Thomajan of the Kirkland Downtown Association tell us all about Winterfest wonders including ice skating, tree lighting, hockey cameos, carolers, alpacas, line dancing, and, of course, hot chocolate.  We also get into the giving season with Toys for Tots and serve up some tips for Thanksgiving. Plus, we recap the last City Council meeting and highlight upcoming events like Small Business Saturday. Show notes: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20251120

Send us a text Carmine Dalziel, Executive Director of the Kirkland Community Foundation, explains how this month’s Ignite Kirkland campaign is one-stop shopping for supporting local nonprofit organizations.  We’ll also reflect on the new outdoor sculpture exhibit, get to the root of “treebates,” and get hot tips on what to do with used cooking oil. Plus, we’ll get a preview of the upcoming Council meeting and hear about upcoming events like the Turkey Trot, Winterfest and the 2026 Pitch Competition. Show notes: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20251113

Send us a text Environmental Education & Outreach Specialist Kate Schmiett tells us all about how managing leaves can mean healthier streams, safer streets, and happy plants and pollinators.  We’ll also get tips for avoiding drowsy driving, learn how Kirkland crews are gearing up for winter, and hear about upcoming events like a free CPR class, the Fisk Family Park ribbon cutting, and the Kirkland Turkey Trot. Plus, get the scoop on Ignite Kirkland and the most recent City Council meeting. Show notes: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20251106

Send us a text We’re joined by Fire Chief Joe Sanford to celebrate a major milestone: every promise of Fire Prop 1 is now complete. Plus, it’s time to set your clocks back (and check your smoke alarms), thank our first responders, manage those falling leaves, prepare for storm season, getting ready for a safe and spooky Halloween, and much more.  Show notes: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20251030

Send us a text Hear from Program Coordinator Quinn Glebe about the Kirkland Cares Low Income Support program that helps residents save on utility bills and other City fees. Plus, celebrate the completion of the Juanita Drive Corridor Improvements, a new picnic shelter at O.O. Denny Park, the Great Kirkland Tree Plant-Off, and a new pedestrian scramble in downtown Kirkland. Don’t miss updates on the latest City Council meeting, Fire Station 21’s grand reopening, and upcoming fall events. Show note links: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20251023

Send us a text Carly Pacekonis, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, gives us simple steps for be more prepared for an earthquake. Plus, mark your calendars for Dia de los Muertos. New ballot drop box location. Submit an idea for safer roads in your neighborhood. Give input on the Draft Homelessness Action Plan. Get safety news, upcoming events, and more! Show note links: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20251016