This Week in Kirkland
Want to stay connected with your local government? Hosted by Deputy City Manager Jim Lopez, the official podcast of the City of Kirkland brings you timely topics and noteworthy news every week. It’s policy, parks, events, and democracy, so join us for the civic conversation straight from City Hall. Made in Kirkland, Washington.
9 Favorite Moments from 100 episodes Plus July 4th Fun
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100th Episode look back with 9 standout stories, fan favorites, and the moments that made us laugh, learn, and love Kirkland even more. Plus, stay out of the water at Houghton Beach. Help guide policy and apply for the Planning Commission and Tourism Development Committee. Stay up to date with City Council. Get your recycling questions answered with our Recycling Hotline. Know before you go this July 4th. Upcoming events, and more.Â
Show note links: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250703
The Free Kit Your Business Might Need One Day (But Doesn’t Know Exists)
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Cheryl Hendrix from LWSD and Ryean-Marie from the City share how you can snag a free spill kit and join the clean water movement, just like our local schools. Plus, stay out of the water at Houghton Beach for at least one week. Celebrate the new playground at Everest Park. Know the rules around campaign election signs. Get all the details about Celebrate Kirkland 4th of July event. Conserve (a lot of!) water with simple tips. Stay in the know with City Council. Get the latest on I-405 and NE 85th St interchange...
$60K Up For Grabs for Events in Kirkland - June 19, 2025
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Jen Davis Hayes, the City’s new Economic Development Manager, tells you the what, the when, and the how to turn your idea into Kirkland’s next big event. Plus, don't set off fireworks this fourth of July. Save the date for National Night Out. Stay up to date with City Council meetings. Trim your vegetation and trees the right way. Watch for extra pedestrians this summer. Learn about the security cameras at the park. Upcoming events, and more.
Show note links: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250619
Up to $8,600 in Energy Rebates to Help You Beat the Heat
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David Barnes saves you thousands as you upgrade to beat the heat. Plus, apply for a tourism grant. Take a Recycle Right Pledge and enter to win a free month of garbage services. Submit your group for a stipend to perform at a community event. Place a pin on our map and tell us your traffic safety concerns. Stay up to date with City Council. Upcoming events, and more. Â
Show note links: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250612
Learn the Code Phrase to Score a Free Juanita Friday Market Tote - June 5, 2025

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Danielle Weese, Juanita Friday Market Manager, shares her favorite tips to make the most of your Juanita Friday Market visits. Plus, learn who the Celebrate Kirkland Grand Marshal is for 2025. Use this tool to park easy downtown. Stay up to date with City Council. Lend your voice to the Juanita Zoning Code amendments. Help save a life with CPR. Observe Gun Violence Awareness Day. Upcoming events, and more.Â
Show note links: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250605
$325 in Rebates to Save Water and Your Pocket Book - May 29, 2025
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Gena Jain tells us how to save water and money this summer. Find out how Kirkland residents can grab free water-saving kits, score rebates, and pocket hundreds in savings—all while helping the planet. Plus, why not to feed the ducks. Take action now to join the 4th of July parade. Enter your cool car into the Cadet Benefit Car Show. Stay up to date with City Council business. Help us keep youth safe on e-bikes. Protect kids from sports injuries this summer. Practice safe water behavior. Upcoming events, and more!Â
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How to Age Smart, Stay Safe, and Be Heard in Kirkland - May 22, 2025
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Special guests Ingrid Martin and Jack Staudt of the Senior Council share how older adults live well and stay connected in Kirkland. Plus, beach closure update. City Hall holiday closure update. Avoid a scam that is active in our area. Celebrate Public Works Week. Volunteer at Juanita Friday Market. RSVP for the 4th of July Veterans reception. Stay up to date on Council matters. Practice grilling safety. Prep your yard to stay safe during wildfire season. Tune into WSDOT's meeting on the I405 and NE 85th St project. Upcoming events and...
Chain Reaction - 7 Ways Biking Inspires a Connected Community - May 15, 2025
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Blair Daly tells how Bike Everywhere Month is more than commuting and can connect a community. Plus, exchange your unwanted gun for a giftcard. Read your water quality report card. Bring Your Own Cup for that coffee refill and win prizes. Stay up to date on Council agendas. How to keep you and your bike safe. Join the 4th of July Celebrate Kirkland parade. Recycling events, and more! Â
Show note links: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250515
How Kirkland Celebrates July 4th and 3 Ways You Can Be Part of the Magic - May 8, 2025
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How does Kirkland celebrate the 4th of July? It's more than flags and floats, it's a group art project, food trucks, and community karaoke! Ariana and Ami share all the details and offer ways for you to get involved. Plus, know what to expect with beach water testing season. Safety tips for dipping in the lake. Win prizes with Bike Bingo. Get your pet licensed this National Pet Month. Stay safe on hitting the trails. Learn about the new HAWK crosswalk signals at 124th Street. Upcoming events and more. Â
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You'll Never Guess Where the New Kalakala Art Sculpture Is Going - May 1, 2025 with Alisa Sargsyan
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This week’s podcast is a true treat for your ears. Alisa Sargsyan—Chair of the Cultural Arts Commission (and classical pianist and amateur pool competitor)—gives the scoop on the latest public art project: a reimagined Kalakala. She also gives a podcast first: live piano performance! And good news! There’s a spot on the CAC for an arty teen. Plus, nominate someone to be the Celebrate Kirkland Parade Grand Marshal. Experience the wonder of Kirkland on May 13 at the State of the City and Community Appreciation Night. Find something special a...
$5,500 in Yard Care Rebates You Might Be Missing Out On - Kate Schmiett April 24, 2025
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What do trees, driveways, and otters have in common? Kate Schmiett—Environmental Education Specialist—explains and spotlights two simple ways to protect our water and wildlife, and get a rebate! Plus, celebrate with food, fun and fellowship May 13 at the State of the City and Community Appreciation Night event. Bike everywhere on May 14. Nominate your favorite tree for the Top 10 Trees of Kirkland 2025. Take 60 minutes to get more prepared. Practice safe driving for National Work Zone Awareness Week. Beautify Heritage Park on May 6. Enjoy community art at the Senior Art Show. And...
Think You’re Recycling Right? WM’s Grace Fletcher Has News for You - April 17, 2025
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Grace Fletcher from WM stops by to talk recycling wins, waste myths, and how Kirkland community members can make a big difference—just by sorting smarter. Plus, design our Kirkland Flag. Save the planet and switch to a heat pump for your home. Enter for a chance at a rebate for an e-bike. Be cart smart. Stay up to date on Council meetings. Stay safe in work zones. Shout out of appreciation to our Animal Control Officer. Upcoming events, and more.Â
Show notes links: www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250417
2 Homeowner Deals That Save Money and the Planet - April 10, 2025
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David Barnes, Kirkland’s Senior Planner for Sustainability, joins us with the inside scoop on heat pump rebates, solar power workshops, and other ways you can help the planet—starting now. Plus, design the official Kirkland flag. Prevent food waste with easy tips. Get money to plant a tree. Stay informed with sustainability info right to your inbox. Know what's coming up at Council. NEW - Follow the Police and Fire Departments on social. Learn CPR, join an upcoming workshop for aspiring Firefighters, and more. Â
Show note links: kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250410
Of Baseball, Bobbleheads, and the City of Kirkland - Mariner Insider (and Nate's Mom) Laura Gettleman Knocks It Out of the Park
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Laura Gettleman, a longtime Kirkland resident with a legendary Mariners bobblehead collection that could very well be the largest in the world, brings a fun conversation about baseball fandom and some unforgettable Mariners moments. Plus, mark your calendars for the State of the City and Community Appreciation Night, and the Business Pitch Competition events. Sell items your done with at our first Junk in the Trunk community yard sale. Bring your spark to the Celebrate Kirkland Planning Committee. Showcase your art at the Senior Art Show. Win a dream vacation when you donate...
5 Kirkland Park Stories You Won't Believe from Jason Filan's 35 Years on the Job - March 27, 2025
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How does a farm kid turned basketball champ end up digging graves and wrangling wildlife in Kirkland’s parks? This week, Parks Superintendant Jason Filan shares his 35-year journey from seasonal worker to seasoned pro. PLUS the wackiest things he’s encountered on the job—including a Dale Chihuly sculpture, surprise wildlife, and tasks you’d never expect. Also on the show: federal and military professionals should check out Kirkland Police Department for your next gig. Get $5,000 rebates for smarting your yard. Celebrating Women's Leadership. Stay up to date on the City Council agenda...
Carmin Dalziel Answers What Is 'For the Love of Kirkland'? - Mar 20, 2025
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Carmin Dalziel, Executive Director of the Kirkland Community Foundation, shares how For the Love of Kirkland is turning community ideas into action—and how you can be part of it! Plus, learn firearm safety at upcoming Gun Safety Class. Get $6,000 off your heat pump installation bill. Be part of keeping Kirkland streets clean of litter. Stay up to date on the City Council agenda. Avoid 'fatbergs' with this easy tip. And more.Â
Show note links: www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250320
Kirkland Integrator Dani Marie on Creativity, Business & Community - Mar 13, 2025
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Dani Marie saw a need in Kirkland’s creative community—and she filled it. Hear how she’s helping artists, businesses, and non-profits thrive. Plus, grab a summer job with Parks and Community Services. Recycle Right at an upcoming event. Set your alarms to register for Spring and Summer recreation programs. Learn, or refresh skills in, CPR, AED and First Aid. Get trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid. Get a preview of the upcoming City Council meeting. Upcoming events, and more! Â
Show note links: http://kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250313
Pickleball Wisdom with Sher Emerick and Shelley Maurer - Mar 6, 2025
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Sher and Shelley from Life Lessons from Pickleball serve up inspiring stories and laughs. They share why this sport is more than just a game and how pickleball is bringing people together in the best ways. Plus, join the conversation about homelessness at an upcoming focus group. Plan ahead for the Kirkland Shamrock Run. Mark your calendars for Spring and Summer Parks Recreation. Learn about joining the Lake Washington School District Board. Get up to date on the last City Council meeting. Experience history in downtown Kirkland. And more.Â
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Seahawks Fan of the Year and Kirkland MVP Terri Fletcher - Feb 27, 2025
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Terri Fletcher, Kirkland MVP and Seahawks Fan of the Year, shares wild game-day moments and community connections. Plus, get trained in Mental Health First Aid. Learn about solar panels for your home. Become a Parks steward. Get your teens involved at the Kirkland Teen Union Building. And more!Â
Show note links: http://kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250227
Coyotes, Peacocks & Turtles—Oh My! Kirkland’s Wild Side Revealed - Feb 20, 2025
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Angela Arnold, Kirkland Animal Control Officer, shares about the wild side of Kirkland and shares responsible pet ownership tips, unexpected wild animal encounters, and her most memorable calls. Plus, join a forum on the City's response to homelessness. Find a place for hard-to-recycle items. Donate blood and win a trip to Kauai. Take Metro Flex next time you zip around town. Learn how to save the planet with Tilth Alliance. Stay up to date with Council meeting happenings. Upcoming events, and more!
Show Note Links: https://Kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250220
Bench + Proposal = A Kirkland Love Story - Feb 13, 2025
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Special guests: Kyle and Christina, share their love story that’s now etched into the City’s landscape. Plus, coyote safety. Comment of our Stormwater Plan. Get assistance with tax filing. Plan ahead for City Hall closure Monday February 17. Join the impressive efforts of the Green Kirkland Partnership. Properly prune your trees this winter. Celebrate American Heart Month with simple habits for big health benefits. Brush up on online safety. Donate blood and help save a life. Â
Links: https://Kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250213
Why Ceramicists Love Kirkland (Hint: It Involves Cones) - Feb 6, 2025
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Special guest: David Lynx, Kirkland Arts Center Executive Director, shares about intriguing upcoming events in the Kirkland art scene - did someone say Fringe Festival? Plus, learn CPR. Join a community forum on the City's response to homelessness. Help shape policy and join a Board or Commission. Stay in the know on winter weather impacts in our community.
Show notes: https://Kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250206
The Voice of the Mariners Talks Kirkland with Us
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Special guest: Aaron Goldsmith, Mariners sportscaster, talks life in Kirkland, lessons from the booth, and coaching his son’s basketball team. Plus, grow your business and pitch an idea to win $5,000. Prep for snow. Coming up at Council. Boost your pet parent skills. Make an impact on Kirkland roads' safety. Upcoming events, and more! Â
https://Kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250130
Mariners Sportscaster and Kirklander Aaron Goldsmith - Jan 30, 2025
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Special guest: Aaron Goldsmith, Mariners sportscaster, talks life in Kirkland, lessons from the booth, and coaching his son’s basketball team. Plus, grow your business and pitch an idea to win $5,000. Prep for snow. Coming up at Council. Boost your pet parent skills. Make an impact on Kirkland roads' safety. Upcoming events, and more!
Show notes:Â https://Kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250130
From Kirkland to LA: Inside a Wildfire Deployment - Jan 23, 2025
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This week Jim, Angela, and David invite you to pitch your business for the chance to win grant money. Plus, honoring former Councilmember Dave Asher. Celebrating Kirklander of the Year. A recap of the last City Council meeting. Take actions to reduce risk. Stay vigilant and protect your pets from wildlife. Warm your home, safely. Watch for and yield to pedestrians. Recycle Right and enter to win a free month of service. Special guest: Jon Hernandez, Lieutenant with Kirkland Fire Dept, shares stories from the frontlines of the LA wildfire deployment.
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7 Fun Ways to Meet Your Police and Fire Depts - Jan 16, 2025
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This week Jim, Kate, and David invite you to reduce food waste. Plus, heads up that City Hall is closed Mon Jan 20. Upcoming at City Council. How to find your water servicer information. How to use winter salt the right way. Meet your wellness goals with local businesses on ShopLocalKirkland.com. Make a difference for youth and apply to lead a day camp. Make your home more energy efficient with a heat pump rebate. Mark your calendars for Lunar New Year. Special guest: Angela Brown, Communications Program Coordinator, shares 7 ways to...
Tales and Tips with Heather Kelly - Jan 9, 2025
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This week Jim, Kate, and David invite you to text the show! Plus, heads up on the NE 85th St closure THIS weekend. Learn CPR and First Aid at an upcoming class. Recap of the last City Council meeting. Learn about heat pump incentives at an upcoming event. Donate blood and enter to win $3,000. Volunteer on MLK, Jr. Day of Service. Compost your Christmas tree. Join an upcoming Aging in Place presentation, and a Lunar New Year event. Special guest: Heather Kelly, Emergency Manager, shares preparedness advice and stories from her vast experience...
This YEAR in Kirkland: 15 Big Stories from 2024 - Jan 2, 2025
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15 big stories from 2024 in our This Year in Kirkland year-end reflection. Plus, what's coming up at Council, a full 85th St weekend closure, and reliving the 1995 Mariner's historic post-season run.
Show notes: www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20250102
7 Holiday Trash Hacks with Gena Jain - Dec 26, 2024
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7 Hacks to cut your holiday trash with guest, Gena; garbage pickup holiday schedule; free Metro rides on New Years; safe space heaters and lithium-ion batteries; winter travel tips so you can know before you go. All that and more, This Week in Kirkland with Jim, Kate and David.
www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20241226
December 19 with Jeff Lockhart
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This week Jim, Kate, and David share heads up on City Hall holiday hours. Plus, Council passes the '25-'26 budget. Shop Local for those last minute gifts. Practice holiday shopping safety, prevent fire hazards, and prep your pets for the holidays. Let Metro Flex take you places. Drop off storm debris for free. Special guest: Jeff Lockhart, Executive Director of Kirkland Performance Center, dives into the magic of the arts, what’s coming to the theater, and how KPC continues to connect and inspire our community while preserving the arts in...
December 12 with Officer Paul Arnold
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This week Jim, Kate, and David invite you to a podcast focus group. Plus, heads up on City Hall holiday closures. Recap of the last City Council meeting. Cook safely this season. Protect your pipes from freezing. Learn about AEDs in the parks. Have an eco-friendly holiday. Check out upcoming events. Special guest: Officer Paul Arnold, Neighborhood Resource Officer, invites you down to Coffee with a Cop, to a Gun Safety Class, and shares winning stories of football, team work, and community. Â
Kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20241212
Dec 5, 2024 featuring Cassie Joyner
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This week Jim, Christian, and David prep you for winter weather, holiday events, and the season of giving with winter readiness tips from our office of emergency management, WM service delays info, December events, Toys for Tots drop offs, volunteer opportunities, and a January blood drive at City Hall. Plus, protect your identity and digital life. Take a trip with the community van. Give feedback on this very podcast! Special guest: Cassie Joyner, Kirkland Downtown Association Board President, shares a special surprise at this year's Winterfest.  Â
Kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20241205
November 27, 2024 - TWIK
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This week Jim and David are joined by Tiffany Trombley, Neighborhood Resource Officer, and Ryan Sheaffer, Fire Lt. and Inspector, to talk holiday safety tips, plus a game of Thanksgiving food "This or That?", and to share their favorite holiday traditions on- and off-duty.Â
Kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20241127
November 21, 2024 - TWIK
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This week Jim, Kate, and David share how to stay informed and safe this wind storm event. Plus, City Council recap. Upcoming winter events. City Hall Thanksgiving holiday closure. Honoring Native American Heritage Day. Recognizing Crash Responder Safety week. Donating to the Recreation Scholarship Fund. Special guest: Christian Switzer, Special Projects Coordinator, teaches us the big impact of Small Business Saturday.
Kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20242114
November 14, 2024 - TWIK
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This week Jim, Kate, and David give heads up on the NE 85th St weekend closure. Plus, Turkey Trot traffic alert. Comp Plan enters final stages. City Council meeting preview. Dark days safety tips. Get around with Metro Flex. Reduce flooding and keep storm drains clear. Special guest: Kate Schmiett, Environmental Education Specialist, talks rain, bugs, and more!Â
Kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20241114
November 7, 2024 - TWIK
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This week Jim, Kate, and Anthony invite you to plant a tree. Plus, City Hall holiday closure. City Council meeting recap. Houghton Transfer Station hours change. Join the Cultural Arts Commission for a say in Kirkland's public art. Sweater weather tips for your pets. Tips for preventing flooding. Thanks for a great AED ribbon cutting event. Become a lunch buddy and make a difference in a child's life. Special guest: Carmin Dalziel, Executive Director of Kirkland Parks and Community Foundation, shares how small gives make big impact right here in our...
October 31, 2024 - TWIK
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This week Jim, Kate and David invite your input on upcoming public hearings at the Nov 6 City Council meeting. Plus, the draft K2044 Comprehensive Plan is posted and available to review. Recognizing National First Responders Day. Public Works and Parks crews prep for winter weather. Take advantage of free extra yard waste pick up in November. Special guest: John Lloyd, Deputy Director of Parks and Community Services, takes our Parks quiz and shares about the upcoming AED ribbon cutting event.Â
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Kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20241031
October 24, 2024 - TWIK
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This week Jim, Kate, and David invite you to the AED unveiling event on Nov 2. Plus, share your input on the City budget. Submit a design for the Kirkland Flag. Get your minority- or women-owned business certified with the state for greater opportunities. Shout out to Councilmember Falcone's newest appointment. Register to the Girls Youth Basketball League. Help keep Kirkland clean and Adopt-a-Road. Join us at Dia de los Muertos and other upcoming events. Special guest: Sergeant John Ness, Kirkland Police Dept, shares about the Pink Patch Project and participates in...
October 17, 2024 - TWIK
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This week Jim, Kate, and David remind you to get your ballot in. Plus, info on the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill. Practice pedestrian safety this October and Halloween. A Council meeting recap. Provide feedback on the city's Commute Trip Reduction Plan. Join the Cultural Arts Commission, the Tourism Development Committee, or the Senior Council. Share your vision for an official Kirkland flag. Submit your pet costume photos to our #KirklandPetTags contest for a chance to win $50 Kirkland Ca$h. Donate blood and enter to win a trip to Las Vegas. Special guest: ...
October 10, 2024 - TWIK
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This week Jim, Kate, and David challenge you to a Budget Pop Quiz. Plus, party at the Pee Wee Monster Bash. Upcoming at City Council. Celebrate Green Kirkland Week and Arbor Day. Recycle your electronic waste. Check your smoke alarm batteries for Fire Prevention Week. Post your pet 'howl'oween costume photos for a chance to win. Donate blood and save a life. Mark your calendars for Dia de los Muertos event. Special guest: Carly Pacekonis, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, brings helpful and actionable tips for staying prepared and getting ready for the...