More background about the Houghton Development Framework and 10-15 minute walkable neighborhoods here:
bsky.app/profile/alyc...
@alyciaramirez3.bsky.social
Good troublemaker, Activist , antifa mom. I tweet about alt right + hate in the PNW, local politics , & social justice. Local organizer. #BlackLivesMatter
More background about the Houghton Development Framework and 10-15 minute walkable neighborhoods here:
bsky.app/profile/alyc...
Kirkland City Council agenda shows meeting details, abbreviation lists, and a city logo. Key sections include regular meeting schedule and department names.
Agenda for Kirkland City Council on December 9, 2025. Includes special and regular meetings with topics on care actions, finance, public safety, and planning.
Aerial view of a cityscape labeled "Houghton Village Development Framework, City of Kirkland, February 28, 2025," showing dense housing and greenery.
Reminder: Upcoming #Kirkland City Council meeting on Nov 9th.
City Council is expected to adopt the Hougton Village Development Framework.
There's still time to contact council in support of the Houghton Development plan and walkable neighborhoods β¬οΈ
www.kirklandwa.gov/Government/C...
"Infographic titled 'Guidelines for Bystanders & Observers' explaining rights to film ICE activity. Includes tips on distance, recording, and safety."
"Infographic titled 'Guidelines for Bystanders & Observers' explaining rights to film ICE activity. Includes tips on distance, recording, and safety."
Alt text: "Informative flyer for witnesses and observers on documenting ICE activity. Includes tips on keeping distance, video protection, and focusing on officers. Advises against live streaming for privacy. Contact details for Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network provided at the bottom."
Alt text: A guide on documenting ICE interactions, with icons and text in Spanish detailing what to note: officer ID, date, language used, vehicles, and force used. A contact for the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network is provided for reporting.
This is a simple and low-cost way to look out for your neighbors.
Link to pick up hubs:
maps.app.goo.gl/ophdCyVrKaMv...
Printable Zines:
drive.google.com/drive/u/0/mo...
Resource hub for WA Whistles Project:
linktr.ee/wa.whistles
Bystander Intervention Guide:
waisn.org/bystander-an...
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Black-and-white poster with a large whistle emitting rays of light, a star above, and silhouettes of raised fists. Text below reads "FORM A CROWD STAY LOUD".
Black-and-white poster with a large whistle emitting rays of light, a star above, and silhouettes of raised fists. Text below reads "FORM A CROWD STAY LOUD".
Image of a flyer with a bold heading, "Β‘Silbatos!" showcasing a whistle alert system for community safety against ICE. Instructions and codes provided.
These whistles are being handed out by volunteers to both immigrants and black/brown folks, in case they are questioned by #ICE, to alert those around them to what's happening.
This idea originated in L.A, and in our state we have the WA Whistles Project.
southseattleemerald.org/news/2025/11...
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A close-up of a card in a clear bag, featuring a graphic of a whistle with radiating lines, a star, and silhouettes of raised fists. Text says, "We protect each other. Form a crowd, stay loud. Protegernos unos a otros." A hand with purple nail polish holds the bag.
A hand holds a clear plastic bag containing a green whistle wrapped in string and a card. The card displays emergency contact numbers and websites for assistance if ICE is seen. The background is a textured surface, and the mood is focused and informative.
This whistle kit was given to me by a community member who picked it up from Third Place Books.
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If you want to support Zahid's family directly, his wife, Mellisa, has a GoFundMe for his legal fees:
www.gofundme.com/f/help-us-fr...
melissa4congress.substack.com/p/a-thanksgi...
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There is no reason for him to be detained, let alone in such grim conditions, other than intentional cruelty that amounts to torture.
We must keep fighting, not just for Zahid & his family, but for all immigrants, both documented and undocumented.
www.thestranger.com/news/2025/11...
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Alt text: A blog post titled "A Thanksgiving Update: We Keep Moving Forward" by Melissa Chaudhry, dated November 27, 2025. It discusses a procedural delay in Zahid's case, highlighting judicial orders and filings. The tone conveys determination, gratitude, and cautious optimism. The post details court actions, expressing thankfulness for the judge's understanding and patience. There are also mentions of personal efforts and updates on filings made to the court. Social media interaction icons are visible.
Text on a blue background recounts an attempt to serve legal papers. The writer documents conversations with Lieutenant Stokes and explains court delays due to Thanksgiving. The tone is hopeful yet anxious, as Mondayβs ruling coincides with their sonβs birthday, hoping for the gift of freedom.
Alt text: A heartfelt letter expresses gratitude for support during a difficult time, mentioning Thanksgiving and a family circle of strength. The tone is hopeful and appreciative. Below the text, a photo shows a smiling person, wearing a red scarf, and a smiling child. Buttons for sharing and subscribing are visible.
An update on beloved community member and veteran, Zahid Chaudhry, who is being held by #ICE in Tacoma:
He may be coming home soon, but only because his health has deteriorated to the point where he will lose his eyesight if detained much longer, due to medical neglect and the poor conditions
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I couldn't be there so I submitted written comments in support and encouraged others to do the same.
When I pressed Catie further about her outsider comment she did a quick heel turn that almost seemed like she was blaming me directly for the "wrong turn" of city council...as if I have any control
Alt text: A detailed online post discusses a city's handling of a development project, criticizing the lack of affordable housing and public benefits. It mentions financial issues, unrealistic expectations, and lack of pressure from higher authorities. Hashtags like #DueDiligence, #CutOurLosses, and #SpeakUp emphasize the need for practical solutions and community advocacy.
Screenshot of a Facebook post from "Committee to Elect Catie Mal..." discussing issues with a city housing proposal. It criticizes developers' responses, mentions a $7 million mitigation request, and accuses the city of ignoring residents' concerns. The post emphasizes themes of affordability, community, and advocacy with hashtags like #DueDilligence and #SpeakUp.
Screenshot of a Facebook post from "Committee to Elect Catie Malβ¦". The text discusses an incident involving a council meeting and highlights issues of accountability, public commentary, and political transparency. The tone is critical of certain council members, expressing gratitude for personal support systems while advocating for change in city governance.
Alt text: A Facebook post by "Committee to Elect Catie Malik" responds to Alycia Ramirez, emphasizing local input in council decisions. Below, Alycia responds, clarifying her involvement and objecting to the tone. A shared post about a public hearing on local development is included, highlighting the community's focus on walkable neighborhoods.
One of Catie Malik's first moves after losing her election was to speak against the Houghton Development plan at the last council meeting....
Then write up a conspiratorial post about "outsiders from other neighborhoods being sent in," to which she seems to be implying was in part referencing me
Im excited to take what I've learned and incorporate it into my organizing in the future (stay tuned for 2026 and beyond!)
If you're interested in taking this class, you can email the coordinator to be added to the waitlist for the 2026 cohort.
www.kirklandwa.gov/Government/C...
Last night, I graduated from the Kirkland Initiative, an 8 wk program designed to cultivate future city leaders by making leadership accessible to residents.
I had the opportunity to meet all the City department heads and learn about how their departments function in tandem with the council.
Facebook conversation about voting issues. Users discuss adding pressure on the council to rethink voting methods, emphasizing common sense and verified voting.
Facebook comment thread discussing concerns over voter turnout in Kirkland, King County. Users express distrust in the county's voting process, with skepticism about ballot counting and mail-in voting. Emotions of suspicion and doubt are evident.
A Facebook comment expressing skepticism about mail voting, suggesting in-person voting for same-day results. Tone conveys frustration and distrust.
Facebook conversation about election results and voter ID laws. Participants express frustration and discuss tax burdens based on voting patterns. Tone is tense and contentious.
Cherish Kirkland's reaction to 3 out of 4 of their slate losing is to 1) claim election fraud and 2) imply they're going to organize around working to end mail-in voting.
Thanks to The Northshore Sassquatch for bringing this to attention:
www.facebook.com/share/p/1Bq4...
@theurbanist.org
You can support the Houghton Development Plan by:
1) Sending an email to: CityCouncil@kirklandwa.gov
2) Submit feedback via Our Kirkland:
kirklandwa.gov/ourkirkland
3) Attend the public hearing on Nov 18th at 7:30pm and sign up to speak in support
www.kirklandwa.gov/Government/C...
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One way the city is trying to address its growing housing needs is by creating walkable 10 & 15 min neighborhoods (which is the hope for the Houghton site), where residents can meet their basic needs within a 10-15 min (or less) walk from their home.
www.theurbanist.org/2024/07/22/k...
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Aerial view of Kirkland urban landscape with text overlay: "Houghton Village Development Framework, City of Kirkland, February 28, 2025." Dense housing and roads are visible.
Collage of various housing projects with modern architectural designs, labeled with affordability rates. Mix of lush greenery and urban surroundings.
Alt text: "A collage of images showcasing diverse urban open spaces and ground floor activities. Features include public courtyards, outdoor dining, play spaces, lounges, and community areas. People are seen interacting and enjoying various settings, emphasizing a vibrant, communal atmosphere."
This proposed conversion of the shopping center is part of the overall vision outlined in the #Kirkland 2044 comprehensive plan, which aims to address the city's housing shortage and facilitate further growth over the next 20 years.
www.kirklandwa.gov/files/shared...
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Call to Action: Tell #Kirkland City Council to adopt the Houghton Development Plan. π£
In 2022, the city purchased the old strip mall in Houghton with the express purpose of converting it into a mixed-use center, with businesses and affordable housing units interspersed.
π§΅
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Election result table for Kirkland Council Position No. 3. Shilpa Prem leads with 12,395 votes (51.2%). Catie Malik follows with 11,742 votes (48.5%). Total votes: 24,210.
Portrait of a woman smiling confidently in a pink blazer. Text says, "History Maker! First South Asian Woman Elected to Kirkland City Council!" with a colorful gradient background.
The image is a Facebook post by the "Committee to Elect Catie Malik." It expresses gratitude for supporters and volunteers and criticizes local government actions in Kirkland, mentioning previous votes and issues like comp plan corridors. The tone is determined, focusing on persistence and future plans. Hashtags include #StayTuned and #ThisIsJustTheBeginning.
Alt text: A text-heavy image conveys a motivational message about political and community engagement. It discusses the progress and future goals for Kirkland, emphasizing resilience, voter participation, and grassroots efforts. It reflects optimism and determination, encouraging continued activism and highlighting hashtags like #YourVoiceMatters and #GrowthMindset.
Congratulations to council member elect Shilpa Prem, who is set to become #Kirkland's first ever woman of color to serve on the council since the city's inception.
Her opponent, conceeded this morning.
Persistence and organizing can lead to real change.
results.vote.wa.gov/results/2025...
Alt text: A tweet from the Seattle Police Officers Guild featuring a statement from President Mike Solan. It comments on the lengthy vote count for Seattle's mayoral election, suggests election process reform, thanks outgoing Mayor Harrell, and looks forward to working with Mayor-Elect Wilson. Tone is formal and anticipatory.
Mike Solan, SPD guild president, issued a statement openly questioning the validity of the votes for Katie Wilson.
Solan's embrace of the far right & SPD's history of aggression could make a dangerous situation if the national guard is sent to #Seattle.
www.theurbanist.org/2021/01/12/b...
Profile with a woman's image and scuba diving background. Text shows "1,007 points," membership in "Moms for Liberty," and badges for "Admin" and "Rising contributor."
Profile page of JoAnn Tolentino, member of Moms for Liberty, featuring a banner with a boat and a profile photo with a man. Text invites comments on patriotic principles.
Alt text: "Election results for King County School Director positions as of November 4, 2025. Sandy R Hayes and Kimberlee Kelly lead in Districts 4 and 5."
Moms 4 Liberty (an aggressive anti LGBTQ hate group) has gotten much more discreet in their candidate support.
Lynda Schram & JoAnne Tolentino, who both lost their races for #Northshore School Board, are involved with the M4L King County Chapter, with Lynda serving as admin β¬οΈ
Election results for Burien City, updated on November 6, 2025. Ballots: 8,340. Hugo Garcia (55.81%) leads for Council Position 1. Sam MΓ©ndez (58.86%) for Position 3. Sarah Moore (63.81%) for Position 5. Rocco DeVito (54.82%) for Position 7.
This is a hopeful outcome in #Burien. With a progressive majority on the council there is a greater chance to 1) overturn the city's camping ban, 2) Restore funding to REACH, and 3) replace the current city manager
election-results-pdf.kingcounty.gov
b-townblog.com/burien-polic...
Alt text: "Informational poster titled 'Your Rights with Immigration.' It outlines rights when interacting with ICE and CBP, such as not opening the door, remaining silent, and refusing a warrantless search. It encourages documenting events and reporting them to a hotline. Includes contact info and QR code for more resources."
Judicial and immigration warrants: Top shows invalid arrest warrant with guidance on rights; bottom displays removal warrant, noting limits on ICE.
Everyone, regardless of immigration status or lack thereof, has certain unalienable rights under the Constitution, including the right to remain silent and the right to refuse to answer any questions or sign any paperwork without a lawyer present.
waisn.org/kyrice/
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Alt text: "Infographic titled 'Guidelines for Bystanders & Observers' detailing how to document ICE activity. Key points include staying at a safe distance, speaking calmly if officers approach, protecting phone content, focusing recordings on ICE actions, and not going live on social media. Includes a contact number for the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network deportation defense hotline. Blue and white design with icons representing each guideline."
Informational graphic titled "What to Document" with tips for observing ICE activities, including officer ID, location, language, vehicles, and force. Icons accompany each point, with a contact for submissions at the bottom.
If you believe you are witnessing #ICE activity, report it to WAISN's reporting hotline at: 1-844-724-3737, record what you see (please DO NOT go live for the privacy of those being detained), and send the footage and/or photos to waisn@hotline.org.
waisn.org/bystander-an...
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With elections in #Kirkland and elsewhere still shaking out, who ultimately wins and loses will have a significant impact on how and if cities push back against the increasingly aggressive kidnappings of our immigrant community members
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As more and more of our community members are being disappeared by the Federal government, the pressure and expectation will be on our local governments and city officials to respond and do what they can to protect those at risk.
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On Mon, ICE violently kidnapped several folks in #Redmond while they were working. During one of these arrests, they broke their vehicle windows and dragged them out.
This comes amongst a trend of rising #ICE activity, including here on the Eastside.
www.king5.com/article/news...
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This hilarious video has been circulating in the comment sections of news articles about the race in #Woodinville, where one person (Jeff Lyon) is spending big $$ to buy seats on the council.
The creator of the video is unknown.
Background:
www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news...
The endorsement by Judy Nicastro of this slate is especially...interesting.
Nicastro didn't just take a $25k bribe (+$40k today), she took it from a family (the Caluccios) widely believed to be affiliated with the mob.
www.thestranger.com/slog/2019/09...
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Judy Nicastro praises four candidates in Kirkland for being smart, collaborative, and community-focused, emphasizing affordable housing and quality of life.
Seattle City Council member Judy Nicastro smiles in a close-up. The article discusses her large campaign donations connected to strip clubs, sparking scrutiny.
Text about adult entertainment businesses in Puget Sound and their legal and political challenges, including a fundraising issue with cash donations.
Text document describes a political donation issue involving Nicastro, who received over $25,000 linked to Colacurcio connections. A donor, Gary Gill, was unaware of his $650 contribution, attributed to a joint account with his wife. Marsha Furfaro, a manager at a Colacurcio company, supports the donations as family support. Nicastro pledges to freeze the funds pending further investigation.
It's been quite the year in local politics.
Jeff Lyon is trying to buy an election in #Woodinville & in #Kirkland, the Cherish Kirkland-backed slate was recently endorsed by Judy Nicastro, the former council member involved in #Strippergate in '06.
www.seattleweekly.com/news/nicastr...
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Alt text: A social media post features Ken MacKenzie discussing solutions to homelessness. It includes text about a meeting led by Kristine Moreland and mentions speakers like Billy Baldwin and Dave Reichert. The post emphasizes unity and compassion, with hashtags related to community solutions. Below, an event logo reads "The More We Love: Real Solutions for Homelessness" and includes a photo of three smiling individuals standing together, with a backdrop of hanging lights.
Alt text: A Facebook post from a city council candidate discusses their campaign and homelessness awareness event. Mentions meeting experts, collaboration, and reducing political polarization, emphasizing community issues.
Alt text: "Article titled 'Documentary Hopes to Inspire Nation to Address Homelessness Crisis' by Bruce Chapman, discusses a new documentary, 'Americans With No Address,' screened in Bellevue, aimed at raising awareness about homelessness and issues like addiction and mental illness. Bruce Chapman emphasizes the need for action."
Two of the Sanity Kirkland slate, Ken M & Catie Malik, have been promoting the controversial non-profit The More We Love & the docu "Americans With No Address" that's executive produced by the Discovery Institute.
publicola.com/tag/the-more...
fixhomelessness.org/2024/documen...
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