Thanksgiving in Issaquah has taken on a new meaning this year

as families impacted by last week’s catastrophic bomb cyclone strive to find gratitude amidst devastation. The storm's wrath left an indelible mark on neighborhoods, particularly around Mt. Fury Circle on Squak Mountain, where the cleanup is only just beginning.

Residents face physical and emotional challenges

Residents have not only grappled with physical damage but also emotional upheaval. Bob Brock, a longtime resident, expressed his sorrow while surveying the destruction around him. "It’s very disappointing to see how much damage there is across the street—three trees smashed through their house, and many others bore the brunt of it as well," he lamented. Brock encountered challenges of his own when a century-old tree in his yard fell onto power lines, leaving him with a massive stump and expensive removal costs. For days, he and his family relied on a generator for basic power needs, making traditional holiday preparations nearly impossible.

Community spirit shines amidst adversity

Despite the challenges, the community spirit shines brightly. Nearby, Hannah Rankin was grateful to host her family in her father’s home. "It’s incredibly special to have my grandparents here this Thanksgiving," Rankin shared enthusiastically. While her culinary skills might need some work—"I don’t really know what I’ve made besides a mess," she joked—she was proud of her Oreo truffle balls for dessert, infusing the holiday with a bit of sweetness.

Unity in action and progress towards recovery

As neighbors come together, there are many reasons for gratitude beyond mere survival. The community united in action, with residents stepping up to clear debris and chop wood, not to mention the relentless efforts of the power company to restore services. "I’m extremely relieved to have power back and even the Internet and cable. They were here yesterday working on the lines, and it’s such a relief to see that progress," Brock remarked with appreciation.

A reminder of Thanksgiving's true spirit

Amidst the turmoil, there’s a poignant reminder of Thanksgiving's true spirit. "Just hold your loved ones close," Rankin advised, urging everyone to show affection and care for one another. "Make sure they know they're loved and that happiness remains in our hearts during such difficult times."

Ongoing recovery efforts in Issaquah

Currently, Puget Sound Energy reports that around 75 customers are still experiencing power outages, with only two of those located in Issaquah. The city is actively facilitating recovery with ongoing cleanup events every Sunday, allowing residents to drop off yard waste for free at Tibbets Valley Park.

Resilience and unity in the Issaquah community

As the Issaquah community navigates this challenging Thanksgiving, the resilience and unity displayed are a testament to their strength—turning adversity into a reason to be grateful for the bonds that hold them together.