Latest news with #Issaquah
Yahoo
17-07-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Here's why those military helicopters were flying low over Bellevue
Military helicopters buzzed southeast Bellevue and Issaquah Tuesday evening, into the early hours of Wednesday. FlightRadar24 showed they were Boeing MH-47G Chinook helicopters belonging to the army, based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). Gary Dangerfield, external communications chief for the base, confirmed that and said special operations teams were conducting training flights on July 15 and 16. 'These activities are not in response to any current event, and every effort is made to limit disruptions to the community,' said Dangerfield. He added that local law enforcement and government entities had been notified and that the Army takes special safety precautions when flying over highly populated areas. Bellevue residents spot helicopters Residents spotted the three heavy lift transport helicopters flying in a 'v'-formation as early 7:30 p.m. They reported them flying so low that the air from the rotors shook the tops of trees, and the sound drowned out a dinner party conversation. 'Military helicopters comply with FAA guidelines regarding routing and altitude. In some training scenarios, aircraft may fly at lower altitudes to meet mission-specific training objectives. These flights are conducted within approved safety parameters,' Dangerfield said. Radar tracked the helicopters flying north across Bellevue, then south and east to the southern tip of Lake Sammamish at about 1,200 feet until they disappeared from radar. That can happen when aircraft fly too low or behind a mountain, or if a transponder is turned off. Video appears to show the aircraft making passes across the eastside as late as 12:05 a.m. 'Night flying is authorized and is a necessary part of aviation training. It allows pilots and crews to gain the skills required to operate safely in low-light environments. Flights at night, including those reported over the Bellevue and Lakemont areas, are conducted to support this critical training requirement,' Dangerfield explained. Residents can report any concerns they have by email or a special hotline. Over 130 aircraft based at JBLM More than 130 aircraft and more than 400 pilots are based at JBLM. They all have mandatory training hours to complete. Chinook helicopters are not small aircraft. According to Boeing, the H-47 series has a maximum weight of 54,000 pounds. The length is more than 50 feet with the rotors folded. The rotors themselves have a diameter of 60 feet. The MH-47G is considered the top of their line. According to they can conduct low-level flights in bad weather with low visibility and cover long distances. They are used to carry troops and cargo. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Yahoo
Washington county suing homeowners for $7M after allegedly felling 142 protected trees to score better views
What started as a routine wildlife check turned into a multimillion-dollar legal bombshell. A trail camera set up in Issaquah's Grand Ridge Park to catch glimpses of local wildlife like bobcats and jaguars ended up catching something entirely unexpected: a tree hurtling down a hillside. 'To see a tree just flying down the hill like a javelin was pretty alarming,' Alex Brown, the homeowner who installed the motion-triggered camera, told KING 5. 'Pretty much every day we see a bear coming by that camera, bobcats, cougars, the occasional mountain lions.' Instead, what pinged Brown's phone was a sliding tree and what he discovered when he hiked up to investigate would soon ignite a legal firestorm involving more than 140 felled trees. I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 6 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don't have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here's how Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan 'works every single time' to kill debt, get rich in America — and that 'anyone' can do it Brown said that he 'found that quite a few trees had been cut up there within the park boundary,' adding, 'A lot of them are still lying on that slope, which is alarming to those of us living down here.' Many of the scattered stumps and fallen branches were inside a protected area of Grand Ridge Park. King County has now filed a lawsuit seeking nearly $7 million in damages, accusing several homeowners of illegally cutting down 142 trees, many classified as 'significant,' allegedly for the purpose of scoring a better view of West Tiger Mountain. "This unlawful act caused serious and generational harm to a protected natural area," said King County Parks Director Warren Jimenez in a statement. He added that the cuts violated county codes, disrupted the wildlife habitat and damaged decades of public investment in conservation. Jimenez said the county is going after civil penalties, treble damages and the contractors involved in what they call an environmental breach of trust. Local resident Caitlin McNulty walks the trails daily with her young son Julian and said one of the falling trees landed just a few hundred feet from their home. 'It was just pretty scary because this is part of our regular little Julian loop that we come and walk most days,' McNulty said. She suspects those responsible assumed they could get away with it. 'I imagine they thought there was a really low probability of anyone finding out. It would have been really hard for someone to have known this happened and I think the only reason we did is we had that wildlife camera there,' she said. KING 5 spoke with one of the named homeowners in the lawsuit, who claimed the tree-cutting was done legally and for his family's safety. But county officials aren't convinced. Read more: You don't have to be a millionaire to gain access to . In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here's how You have freedoms as a homeowner in the U.S., but those freedoms stop when they infringe on public safety, environmental integrity, neighbor rights, or zoning laws. Make sure you do your homework before swinging that sledgehammer or aiming that chainsaw. What you can do While you'll want to research the specific laws pertaining to the project you want to carry out, these are general guidelines about what you're typically allowed to do. Home improvements: You can remodel, add rooms, or build a deck, but 'any project that goes beyond a simple repair or aesthetic upgrade' usually requires a permit from your local building department. If you skip this step, you can expect delays, fines, or even forced demolition. Rent your property: There's no federal law stopping you from turning your home into a cash-flow machine but be sure to check local bylaws based on where you live, because every city, county and zoning board writes its own rules, so check before you list that spare room on Airbnb, or other rental services. Landscape paradise: Want a backyard oasis? Go for it, but watch water‐use laws in drought zones and be careful not to disturb wildlife habitats (especially in conservation landscapes). Install solar and eco‑upgrades: 'Solar rights' laws in many states protect your right to go green. But you'll still need permits, interconnection inspections and sometimes an HOA notice. What you can't do Here are some things you shouldn't do if you don't want to get in trouble: Cut down trees without permission: Even if they are in your own yard, many cities and states require permits before removing trees. Fines and requirements often depend on tree size, species, or location. DIY without necessary permits: Building a fence, shed, or even a pool without pulling proper permits? Local authorities can issue a stop-work order, force you to tear it all down and slap you with a fine. It's not just a slap on the wrist; it could be demolition day. Be a noisy neighbor: Constant noise, bright lights, or strong odors from your property? You could end up paying $20,000 to $50,000 in damages under local nuisance laws. Breaking HOA rules: Break HOA rules, like say, paint your house neon green or build an unapproved deck and you could face monthly fines, legal fees, or even foreclosure proceedings. Always consult your municipality before changing property and check for permits for everything from remodeling to major landscaping. Check HOA rules, submit plans for approval and keep documented records and communications of every step along the way. Hire arborists before removing trees, especially large, habitat-important or protected species. Be a considerate neighbor by limiting noisy tools, bright lights and strong odors. While the case in King County is currently civil, the King County Prosecutor's Office says criminal charges are still on the table. As for Brown, he is still shocked by what he saw, 'The fact that so much damage was done and consequently their view was improved raises a lot of questions,' he said. This tiny hot Costco item has skyrocketed 74% in price in under 2 years — but now the retail giant is restricting purchases. Here's how to buy the coveted asset in bulk Robert Kiyosaki warns of a 'Greater Depression' coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 'easy-money' assets will bring in 'great wealth'. How to get in now Rich, young Americans are ditching the stormy stock market — here are the alternative assets they're banking on instead Here are 5 'must have' items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you? Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
CTV News
30-06-2025
- Sport
- CTV News
AFC Toronto adds to roster with defender Zoe Burns and forward Lauren Rowe
Defender Zoe Burns is shown making her debut for the Canada senior team in a 2-2 draw with Nigeria on Monday, April 11, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout — AFC Toronto (Mandatory Credit) TORONTO — AFC Toronto has signed Canadian international defender Zoe Burns and Canadian youth international forward Lauren Rowe. Burns, 23, arrives from France's FC Fleury 91 while Rowe joins from North Toronto Women after a stellar career at Cape Breton University. A native of Issaquah, Wash., Burns is a dual citizen and represented the U.S. at the under-16 and under-17 levels before joining the Canadian under-20 program in 2022. She went on that year to play for Canada at the CONCACAF Women's Under-20 Championship in the Dominican Republic, where she was named to the tournament's Best XI, and at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in Costa Rica. In 2022, she earned her first senior call-up and went on to win caps against Nigeria and Morocco. 'Adding a right-sided wingback was always going to be a priority for us this summer, so we are delighted to welcome a multi-faceted talent like Zoe to Toronto,' AFC sporting director Billy Wilson said in a statement. 'Zoe is another player with senior national team appearances, and she is eager to play her way back into national team contention,' he added. Burns played collegiate soccer at USC where she was named to the All-Pac-12 second team and All-Pacific Region first-team recognition. Selected by the Utah Royals in the second round (29th overall) of the 2024 NWSL draft, she went on to make 21 appearances before being released at the end of the 2023 season. 'I've played in the NWSL, I've played in Europe, and joining a new league like this is definitely a different kind of risk. But for me, it was important to be somewhere that's truly investing in women's sports, and in doing things the right way,' Burns said in a statement. 'What stood out about Canada is that the support has always been there. I've seen it firsthand with the national team. Canadians care, they show up, and they want to see us succeed. That kind of energy matters. The NSL might be a new league, but it's not a new fan base. The foundation is strong, the investment is real, and the level of professionalism being built around it made this a risk worth taking.' Burns officially joins the team Tuesday and will be available for selection when the NSL transfer window opens July 20. Her first eligible match will be July 24 in Vancouver. Rowe, 20, arrives from North Toronto Soccer where she scored seven goals and added 12 assists in 10 games. A native of Conception Bay South, N.L., Rowe scored the winning goal in both the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) semifinal and final, earning MVP honours in the championship match. Rowe was also named AUS Player of the Year. 'Lauren came to our attention through her performances in League1 Ontario with North Toronto,' said Wilson. 'She's been training with us for the past month and has been great in our environment. She is a very direct player who possesses electric pace and enjoys taking on players head-to-head. 'As a player from Newfoundland, her journey to this point has been a lot more challenging than others. She's forged a unique path for herself by fighting for every opportunity that's come her way. We believe we are signing a very exciting and talented player who will thrive in a professional environment.' Rowe was part of the Canadian U-20 program from 2022 to 2024. AFC Toronto plays Ottawa Rapid FC next on July 10 --- This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 30, 2025 The Canadian Press
CBC
30-06-2025
- Sport
- CBC
AFC Toronto adds to roster with defender Zoe Burns, forward Lauren Rowe
AFC Toronto has signed Canadian international defender Zoe Burns and Canadian youth international forward Lauren Rowe. Burns, 23, arrives from France's FC Fleury 91 while Rowe joins from North Toronto Women after a stellar career at Cape Breton University. A native of Issaquah, Wash., Burns is a dual citizen and represented the U.S. at the under-16 and under-17 levels before joining the Canadian under-20 program in 2022. She went on that year to play for Canada at the CONCACAF Women's Under-20 Championship in the Dominican Republic, where she was named to the tournament's Best XI, and at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in Costa Rica. In 2022, she earned her first senior call-up and went on to win caps against Nigeria and Morocco. "Adding a right-sided wingback was always going to be a priority for us this summer, so we are delighted to welcome a multi-faceted talent like Zoe to Toronto," AFC sporting director Billy Wilson said in a statement. "Zoe is another player with senior national team appearances, and she is eager to play her way back into national team contention," he added. Burns played collegiate soccer at USC where she was named to the All-Pac-12 second team and All-Pacific Region first-team recognition. Selected by the Utah Royals in the second round (29th overall) of the 2024 NWSL draft, she went on to make 21 appearances before being released at the end of the 2023 season. "I've played in the NWSL, I've played in Europe, and joining a new league like this is definitely a different kind of risk. But for me, it was important to be somewhere that's truly investing in women's sports, and in doing things the right way," Burns said in a statement. "What stood out about Canada is that the support has always been there. I've seen it firsthand with the national team. Canadians care, they show up, and they want to see us succeed. That kind of energy matters. The NSL might be a new league, but it's not a new fan base. The foundation is strong, the investment is real, and the level of professionalism being built around it made this a risk worth taking." Burns officially joins the team Tuesday and will be available for selection when the NSL transfer window opens July 20. Her first eligible match will be July 24 in Vancouver. Rowe, 20, arrives from North Toronto Soccer where she scored seven goals and added 12 assists in 10 games. A native of Conception Bay South, N.L., Rowe scored the winning goal in both the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) semifinal and final, earning MVP honours in the championship match. Rowe was also named AUS Player of the Year. "Lauren came to our attention through her performances in League1 Ontario with North Toronto," said Wilson. "She's been training with us for the past month and has been great in our environment. She is a very direct player who possesses electric pace and enjoys taking on players head-to-head. "As a player from Newfoundland, her journey to this point has been a lot more challenging than others. She's forged a unique path for herself by fighting for every opportunity that's come her way. We believe we are signing a very exciting and talented player who will thrive in a professional environment." Rowe was part of the Canadian U-20 program from 2022 to 2024.
Yahoo
29-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Homeowner sued by King County says tree cutting was about safety, not views
The Brief A viral video of a tree tumbling toward an Issaquah neighborhood led to a King County lawsuit against three homeowners for allegedly cutting over 140 trees for better views. One homeowner claims the tree-cutting was for safety, not views, and says King County gave verbal permission after a county-owned tree damaged his home. King County officials call it a severe timber trespass, with trees cut without permits, destabilizing the hillside, and filed a civil suit seeking damages. The homeowner cited damages to their home from a falling tree in the area in their decision to hire arborists. ISSAQUAH, Wash. - You've probably seen the viral video: a massive, missile-like tree barreling down a hillside toward an Issaquah neighborhood. That video is now at the center of a King County lawsuit accusing three homeowners of illegally cutting or damaging more than 140 trees — allegedly for a better view. Big picture view But one of the homeowners named in the lawsuit tells FOX 13 it was never about the view — it was about protecting his family and property. He says King County gave him permission for the work. Chain saws buzzing through the forest isn't unusual for Issaquah resident Alex Brown. "We're in a rural area. People cut firewood all the time," Brown said. But what his motion-triggered trail camera caught on March 22 stunned him. "It was flying," he said, describing a massive tree tumbling down a 500-foot slope toward his neighborhood. The tree's limbs were stripped bare, neighbors say they're lucky it wedged under another log. Officials confirmed that had it veered just slightly, it could've crashed into nearby homes — or even the interstate. Brown and his neighbors, Caitlyn and Fred McNulty, followed the destruction uphill. "Closer to the top of the hill, we found the site where many, many more trees had been cut and kind of left lying in that steep ravine," Brown said. He filed a complaint, King County officials now describe their find as one of the most egregious cases of timber trespass in memory. In early June, the county filed a civil suit against three homeowners, accusing them of cutting or damaging at least 142 trees in Grand Ridge Park — a 1,200-acre protected forest in an environmentally critical area. "We heard from a few officials that it was the worst damage they'd ever seen in decades of work with the county," Brown said. He says county officials called it a "massacre." Trees were cut, topped, and delimbed without permits — potentially destabilizing the hillside and harming the ecosystem. "We sit right below that landslide hazard area, so we're very concerned about that," Brown said. "Especially, you know, once we get back into the rainy season. There's a lot of trees missing that were helping stabilize that really steep slope." The damage is visible from I-90, where what was once thick forest now reveals a sweeping view — what the county refers to as a "substantially improved view" of West Tiger Mountain. "These trees belong to everyone," said Caitlyn McNulty, whose yard the tree landed in. "It's not something that people have the right to just take because it benefits them." King County's Department of Natural Resources tells FOX 13 the tree-cutting should never have happened. The land is protected — and only the county can authorize such work. The other side But one of the homeowners being sued says the situation is being misrepresented. He asked not to be named due to legal concerns but shared his story exclusively with FOX 13. "Everything that is existing that's problematic is not on our property. It's on King County's property," he said. He and his wife moved into their Issaquah home in September 2024 with two children and another on the way. Within months, he said, a tree owned by the county struck their home. "Our house was struck by a tree that was owned by King County, causing north of $100,000 worth of damage to our home three months after we moved into the house," he said. His daughter was asleep in the room that was hit. Water seeped through the ceiling during what was supposed to be their first Christmas in the new home. He says starting in January, he repeatedly reached out to King County — with no response — until March 2025. That's when he says he spoke with a county employee who gave him verbal permission to proceed with the work on public lands. He also heard a recording on the county line referencing tree-cutting code 16.82, which he interpreted as permission to proceed. He hired an arborist to assess and begin work on what he considered hazardous trees. "We were told that by cleaning these trees, they're less likely to fall," he said. "We're removing dead trees. We're ensuring that the trees are more aerodynamic, that the branches aren't falling off onto your house and things of that nature. So our intention was not to create a view. It was just to make sure that the trees that surround our home are healthy and less likely to fall." According to the homeowner, extreme windstorms made the situation worse. "We're talking about gusts of 70 to 80 miles an hour. It's alarming, and it's scary," he said. He pointed out dozens of leaning and fallen trees on the property — and claims around 100 more still need attention. "We didn't want to cut anything down — the trees that were cut down were clearly diseased, dead or problematic," he said. "We're still looking at hundreds of trees, and I wouldn't say that we have an improved view because of it. This has all been in an effort to protect our families and our home. In my opinion, they're healthy — healthier than what they were before, and our hope is that we can make the rest of them healthy too." He says when he learned about the tree that slid into the neighborhood, he shut everything down immediately. "We were very alarmed," he said. "In fact, the day that we heard of that news was when we completely stopped all the operations because we wanted to ensure that there was no potential threat or safety concern to any of the homes around us." The homeowner, a luxury real estate agent, was asked whether he should have known better. "I don't think that's a direct correlation, because I'm a home expert. I'm not a tree expert," he said. "Anytime I see a situation where my clients could face potential danger with trees, we guide them — we have arborists look at properties, he said. "As much as I'd like to think I know what I'm doing with trees, I don't. I'm a real estate professional. I specialize in buying and selling houses." The homeowner said he's open to apologizing to neighbors impacted by the work. "I would love to be able to have a conversation with him and apologize for what has happened," he said. "I recognize why that individual might think what we're doing was an effort to enhance views. Our only focus was to protect our family." The homeowner says he remains open to working with King County — but claims no one from the county has yet assessed the trees near his home. What's next The trial is scheduled for June 2026. The county is seeking treble damages and civil penalties. Criminal charges may also be considered. "We believe that we have permission to do this work," he said. "And we recognize that we were prioritizing our family's safety." The Source Information in this story came from original FOX 13 Seattle interviews. Climate experts sound alarm on AI's hidden environmental costs $79M Seattle-area home is now most expensive listing in Pacific Northwest WA's first In-N-Out close to opening in Ridgefield Kent man charged with supplying chemicals in CA bombing dies in jail Suspect in deadly Edmonds ferry dock crash faces murder charges To get the best local news, weather and sports in Seattle for free, sign up for the daily FOX Seattle Newsletter. Download the free FOX LOCAL app for mobile in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for live Seattle news, top stories, weather updates and more local and national news.
