City of Kirkland hosts and staff used the May 1 episode of the city podcast to preview a series of upcoming community events and volunteer opportunities.

Highlights announced on the podcast included a call for volunteers for the Celebrate Kirkland July Fourth Parade and open nominations through May 10 for the parade grand marshal; Community Appreciation Night on Tuesday, May 13 at the Kirkland Performance Center (free, with limited seats); Kirkland’s “Junk in the Trunk” community sale on Saturday, May 3 at the former Houghton Park & Ride; applications open through May 16 for a youth seat on the Cultural Arts Commission; and the Kirkland half marathon and 5K on Sunday, May 4, with expected traffic and parking changes around Juanita Beach Park.

The podcast also noted other city events or programs: the Kirkland Police Department’s guns‑for‑gift‑cards event on Saturday, May 17 at the Kirkland Justice Center; a senior art show with opening reception May 9 at Merrill Gardens; a Solarize Eastside workshop May 15 at City Hall for residents interested in solar energy; and monthly business advising at City Hall (second Wednesday of the month). The podcast reminded listeners that parking in restricted areas during the half marathon may result in towing.

The podcast additionally noted a Light the Night tribute by the Kirkland Fire Department: four fire stations were lit red to honor fallen firefighters and to remember firefighter Terrence Goldberg, who died in February 2009 after a battle with cancer.

Why it matters: These events involve neighborhood traffic and parking changes, volunteer recruitment and civic‑engagement opportunities. The podcast repeatedly reminded listeners to consult show notes or the city website for links, RSVP information and more details.

Source: City of Kirkland podcast episode (May 1), remarks by podcast hosts and staff.