MOHAI Explores the History and Meaning of The Stars & Stripes in a New Exhibit

Joe Rantz 1936 Olympics Flag, courtesy MOHAI

MOHAI Explores the History and Meaning of The Stars & Stripes

 in a New Exhibit opening July 3, 2026

"For Which It Stands: The Many Threads of the American Flag" 

SEATTLE — The Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) will present an inspiring and thought-provoking exhibit just in time for Independence Day – and running through Nov. 15.

For Which It Stands: The Many Threads of the American Flag examines the evolving meaning of the American flag through art, artifacts, historic photos and personal stories. The exhibit opens July 3rd to coincide with the nation’s 250th anniversary commemoration, and it asks MOHAI visitors to reflect on how the flag has served as a symbol, and what it has meant in different moments throughout American history and in their own lives.

Through historic flags and imagery from MOHAI Collections, alongside contributions from community partners, visitors will see how people have used the flag to express themselves in moments of unity, protest, conflict, and change.

“Throughout history and modern-day America, the flag has continually evoked feelings, pride, debate and reflection,” said MOHAI Executive Director Leonard Garfield. “With this exhibit we hope visitors will consider what the flag has represented, what it means today, and what it means for future generations.”

The exhibit includes a wide range of flags and flag-related material, including a WWII burial flag from a Japanese American soldier who served in the 442nd Infantry Regiment, a flag that was found in the wreckage of the 2014 Oso landslide and a flag carried by the “Boys in the Boat” at the 1936 Olympic Games, among others.

The exhibit offers opportunities for engagement as well. Visitors are invited to honor fallen service members, write their own “Pledge of Allegiance,” and weave their own threads into a collective artwork created by a local fiber artist.

The exhibit goes on display at MOHAI during a landmark summer of America250 programming. At the end of July MOHAI will also open the Freedom Plane National Tour: Documents That Forged a Nation, making the museum a premier regional destination for America250 programming.

The exhibit is part of MOHAI’s ongoing commitment to fostering dialogue about the people, events, and ideas that have shaped the nation and the Pacific Northwest.

For Which It Stands: The Many Threads of the American Flag exhibit is included in the cost of admission. More information about this exhibit, other public programming and MOHAI membership can be found at, www.mohai.org. MOHAI is located in Lake Union Park 860 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109

MOHAI is dedicated to enriching lives through preserving, sharing, and teaching the diverse history of Seattle, the Puget Sound region, and the nation. As the largest private heritage organization in the State of Washington, the museum engages communities through interactive exhibits, online resources, and award-winning public and youth education programs. 

For more information about MOHAI, please visit mohai.org, or call (206) 324-1126. Facebook: Facebook.com/SeattleHistory Twitter: @MOHAI.

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Travels with Charlie: Log Boom Greeter Dog

Story and photos by Gordon Snyder

Charlie and I headed to Log Boom Park for some Lake Washington fresh air. Charlie sniffs as we walk along to the pier.

Once there, He seems to always know Dog People…. And he never bothers the fishers.

Great! more new Friends. Hello, I'm Charlie...

Next???

Another bonus from our walks... Seeing Charlie giving a moment to Dog Folks out enjoying the day.

Cheers,
Gordon Snyder

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ArtSplash 2026: Edmonds Summer Art Show July 18-19, 2026

ArtSplash 2026: Edmonds Summer Art Show

Runs July 18 & 19, 2026 from 10am – 5pm
At 2nd and Dayton Streets in Edmonds

Edmonds, WA, June 2026 – Celebrating the excitement of live local art, the Edmonds-Based Artists-Connect group is holding its annual ArtSplash show and sale on Saturday and Sunday, July 18th & 19th. 

ArtSplash runs from 10am to 5pm each day at the Artworks building at 200 Dayton Street in downtown Edmonds, WA. Located two blocks from the Edmonds Ferry terminal, the free show is a great destination event this summer and parking is free.

ArtSplash 2026 features twenty local artists. Artwork for sale includes original oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, and mixed media paintings of landscapes and abstract themes, art prints, undersea and nature photography, one-of-a-kind jewelry, collages, and art cards.

This is a great opportunity to come out and support local artists who are key to the vitality of our community. The Edmonds Artists-Connect group is recognized for nurturing a wide range of arts and ability levels through monthly presentations on technique and diverse approaches to involvement in the arts. For over half of the participating artists, this will be the first tine they have shown and sold their art in person.

According to Makaylaa Powers, event organizer and show artist, ARTSplash is part of Edmond’s creative heart. “It is an opportunity for people to come together in appreciation of inspired talent and beauty. And this show is linked to other important organizations.” 

Each ARTSplash artist will auction a piece of art with proceeds supporting the Edmonds Art Festival Foundation’s (EAFF) educational programs. In addition, a portion of each regular sales goes to the Edmond’s Art Festival’s support of ArtWorks – The ARTSplash venue in downtown Edmonds. 

Artists-Connect Edmonds is a no-fee art group that meets the 4th Saturday of each month from 10am to 12pm, at ArtWorks.

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Arts in the Garden with ShoreLake Arts July 9, 2026

Join ShoreLake Arts on 2nd Thursdays this summer at Kruckeberg Botanic Garden from 5:30 - 6:30pm (July 9, Aug 6) for Arts in the Garden!

Each date is a different nature themed project. Free and all-ages

Creativity and nature come together once again through a partnership with Laura James at ShoreLake Arts and Kruckeberg Botanic Garden. 

These free, family-friendly workshops invite visitors of all ages to gather inspiration from the garden and create something uniquely their own.

Featuring button making, watercolor painting, and more. Free workshops!

Kruckeberg Botanic Garden 20312 15th Ave NW, Shoreline, WA 98177

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King County: Jail bookings decline 26% in the first year after people move into housing

Clover Place at 4905 Aurora Ave N is part of the Downtown Emergency Service Center housing initiative. Photo courtesy SMR Architects.

New King County data from the Department of Community & Human Services (DCHS) shows jail bookings declined nearly 27% in the first year after people moved into housing and continued to fall over time, reaching a 37.6% reduction within three years. 

An analysis of 5,371 residents between 2021 and 2025 found that 81% of residents with a recent jail booking experienced a reduction after entering housing, with declines observed across all racial and ethnic groups included in the analysis.

The findings are a new addition to the Health Through Housing dashboard, which provides key outcomes to support transparency and ongoing learning about the initiative. 

While all other dashboard metrics focus solely on Health Through Housing residents and locations, the jail bookings data draws from all adult-serving supportive housing programs across King County. 

The findings underscore what providers and residents consistently report: stability in housing can interrupt cycles of homelessness and repeated involvement with the criminal-legal system while creating pathways to long-term stability.

"Breaking the cycle of homelessness starts with providing housing," said King County Executive Girmay Zahilay.

"Every person deserves the stability of a safe place to call home. This data shows that when people have a stable place to live, they're less likely to cycle through our jail system. That's better for individuals, better for the broader community, and a reminder that housing is one of the most effective investments we can make."

This latest data release comes after last year’s findings showed stable and dignified housing with services supported improved health outcomes for Health Through Housing’s residents.

"The data confirms what residents, providers, and communities experience every day: housing creates the stability people need to move forward," said Dr. Susan McLaughlin, DCHS Director.

"Many people enter supportive housing after years of navigating homelessness, health challenges, and repeated crises. When people have a safe place to live and access to support, they are better able to focus on their health, reconnect with their communities, and build a more stable future."

King County continues to invest in strategies that address the root causes of homelessness and create pathways to long-term stability for residents across the region.

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Pups on Parade - the best dog party ever July 11, 2026 at Cromwell Park

This event is put on by Old Dog Haven and they basically aim to make it the best dog party ever! There will be over 50 vendors as well as another field with just fun stuff for the dogs! 

There will be lick art, paw art, Zoltar, a kissing booth, a photo booth, a pawlm reader & a character artist!

It is at Cromwell Park in Shoreline on July 11, 2026 from 10am to 3pm! 18030 Meridian Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133
All leashed dogs are welcome. They don’t have to be old!

A full schedule of events during the day

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Free meals for kids at The Y - and for all ages at Ronald Café and PoPY's Café

Summer Meals are Back at The YMCA

Monday - Friday 12:00pm to 1:00pm free meals for kids are served in the Dale Turner YMCA lobby from June 22 - August 21, 2026. 

Dale Turner YMCA 19290 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133

Thank you to our food partner Hunger Intervention Program for all you do to nourish our community.

The Y also sponsors all ages meals at Ronald Café on Thursday

• Hot, sit-down meals with take-out options 
• When: Thursdays, 5:30–6:30pm (or earlier if meals run out) 
• Where: Ronald United Methodist Church, 17839 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline

As well as hot take out meals from PoPY's Café on Wednesday

• Hot, takeaway meals only
• When: Wednesdays, 5:00–6:00pm (or earlier if meals run out)
• Where: Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 14514 20th Ave NE, Shoreline

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Master Gardeners: The Lessons of Patience

By Marie Kurka-Brown

In the realm of gardening, patience is not merely a virtue; it is a fundamental lesson that unfolds over time. Each seed planted in the rich soil is a promise of potential, requiring nurturing and care to blossom into its true form. 

Just as in life, we often find ourselves eager for immediate results, yet the garden teaches us that growth is a gradual process, one that cannot be rushed. The quiet moments spent tending to plants become an invitation to reflect on our own journeys and the importance of allowing time to work its magic.

Photo by Marie Kurka-Brown

As we cultivate our gardens, we learn to embrace the cycles of nature. The changing seasons remind us that everything has its time: spring brings new beginnings, while autumn invites us to reap the fruits of our labor. 

This cyclical rhythm encourages us to slow down and appreciate the present moment, fostering a sense of mindfulness. 

In doing so, we discover that patience not only enriches our gardening experience but also nourishes our souls, helping us to find peace amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Mindfulness practices in the garden further enhance our understanding of patience. By engaging fully in the act of gardening, we cultivate a deeper connection with the earth and ourselves. 

Whether it's the simple act of watering or the meditative practice of pruning, these moments of awareness allow us to center our thoughts and feelings. 

They teach us that patience is not just about waiting but being present and attentive to the processes around us, celebrating each small victory along the way.

 
Sustainable gardening embodies the essence of patience, as it requires a commitment to nurturing the earth for future generations. Implementing eco-friendly practices may take longer to yield results, but the rewards are profound. 

As we witness the flourishing of our gardens, we realize that sustainable methods not only benefit our plants but also contribute to our mental wellbeing. 

This holistic approach helps us appreciate the interconnectedness of all living things and reinforces the value of patience in nurturing both our gardens and our lives.

 

Photo by Marie Kurka-Brown

Lastly, the culinary herb garden serves as a beautiful metaphor for the lessons of patience. Each herb, from basil to rosemary, requires time to grow and develop its unique flavors. 

As we wait for these plants to mature, we learn to savor the anticipation of using them in our cooking. 

The act of harvesting becomes a celebration of patience, transforming our meals into experiences that nourish not only our bodies but also our spirits. 

Through this journey, we discover that the essence of gardening lies in the lessons we learn along the way, ultimately guiding us towards a more fulfilling and mindful existence.

 
Understanding the Cycle of Life

 
Understanding the cycle of life is fundamental for anyone engaged in gardening or seeking a deeper connection with the world around them. Each season brings distinct changes, not only to the garden but also to our lives. 

As gardeners, we learn that growth is not a linear process; it is filled with ebbs and flows, much like the seasons that govern our planting and harvesting. Embracing this cycle allows us to appreciate beauty in both our successes and our failures, nurturing a mindset that values resilience and adaptability.

 
The act of planting seeds is symbolic of new beginnings, and waiting for them to sprout embodies patience and hope. Just as we tend to our seedlings, we must also nurture our own dreams and aspirations. 

This parallel teaches us that growth requires care, attention, and time. By observing the transformations in our gardens, we can reflect on our personal journeys, recognizing that each phase has its purpose, whether it be the excitement of budding growth or the solemnity of a dormant winter.

Photo credit: Pixel

Mindfulness practices in the garden can enhance our understanding of life cycles. By immersing ourselves in the present moment, we learn to observe the subtle shifts that occur with each passing day. 

The gentle rustle of leaves, the vibrant colors of blooming flowers, and the quiet rhythm of nature serve as reminders that life unfolds at its own pace. 

This awareness enables us to cultivate gratitude and acceptance, enriching our souls as we connect with the earth around us.

 
Sustainable gardening is not just about growing food; it is about nurturing our mental wellbeing through a harmonious relationship with nature. 

By choosing to cultivate our gardens in eco-friendly ways, we honor the interconnectedness of all living things. 

This relationship teaches us to respect the cycles of life, from composting kitchen scraps to creating habitats for local wildlife. 

Engaging in sustainable practices allows us to contribute positively to the environment while fostering a sense of peace and purpose in our own lives. 

Until next time, may your hands stay busy, your heart stay soft, and your feet carry you somewhere beautiful.

Marie Kurka-Brown, WSU Extension Master Gardener, Class of 2020, Foundation Director Member elected 2025 

Help Support King County Master Gardener Donate Support WSU King County Extension | King County | Washington State University

To learn more about becoming a Master Gardener How to Become WSU Master Gardener MG Home | King County | Washington State University

To learn more about the Japanese Beetle Spread the Word Japanese Beetle | Washington State Department of Agriculture

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Lake Forest Park residents invited to serve on Pro and Con Committees for Public Safety Levy Lid Lift

The City of Lake Forest Park invites residents to serve on the “Pro” and “Con” committees that will write the official statements in favor of and against a proposed six-year Public Safety Levy Lid Lift. 

The City Council approved placing a six year levy lid lift proposition on the November 3, 2026, general-election ballot. For a current draft of the proposal, please refer to the resolution 26-2084 found here: June 25, 2026 Regular Meeting Packet.

Under RCW 29A.32.280, each committee may have up to three voting members and any number of non-voting advisors; all members must be registered voters living in Lake Forest Park. 

If appointed, members will collaborate to draft a 200-word statement supporting or opposing the levy and may later prepare a 75-word rebuttal after reviewing the opposing side’s submission. King County Elections deadlines require the final statements to be submitted no later than August 14, 2026.

Residents interested in participating should email City Clerk Matt McLean at mmclean@cityoflfp.gov by 5:00pm on Thursday, July 16, 2026. Please include your name, residential address, phone number, and indicate whether you want to serve on the Pro or Con committee. The City Council will appoint committee members at its meeting on Thursday, July 23, 2026, and their names will be sent to King County Elections by August 4, 2026.

For additional information, contact Matt McLean at mmclean@cityoflfp.gov or 206-368-5440. Thank you for helping provide Lake Forest Park voters with balanced and informative perspectives on this important public-safety measure.

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145th Street Corridor Project is complete

Photo courtesy City of Shoreline

After more than a decade of planning, partnership, and construction, the 145th Street Corridor Project is complete, and the new double-lane roundabouts at the I-5 and NE 145th Street interchanges are now open!

Rock art in the roundabouts
Photo courtesy City of Shoreline

This milestone marks the substantial completion of one of Shoreline's largest transportation projects. The improvements along this stretch of 145th make this area safer and easier for everyone to travel through, whether that be by driving, walking, biking, taking the bus, or connecting to the light rail.

Generous sidewalks on 145th
Photo courtesy City of Shoreline

The project includes:

New sidewalks, shared-use paths, and ADA-accessible crossings
Improved bicycle connections across I-5
Better access to the Shoreline South/148th light rail station and transit
Streetscape and utility improvements
Shoreline's first-ever double-lane roundabouts, designed to improve traffic flow and reduce serious collisions

Double-lane roundabouts
Photo courtesy City of Shoreline

We’d like to extend a huge “thank you” to our community for your continued patience and understanding throughout construction and to the many agency and utility partners who helped bring this transformational project to life.

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Alphabet Resistance 6-26-26

Alphabet Resistance continues its political commentary on the 50th Street overpass to I-5 on June 26, 2026.

And the flip side of the sign...

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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Hoorah!

 

See previous cartoons by Whitney Potter HERE

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Lake Forest Park places public safety levy on November 2026 ballot

Six-year levy would fund police, 911 dispatch, and mental health services

LAKE FOREST PARK, Wash. – The Lake Forest Park City Council has approved a resolution to place a temporary, six-year police and public safety levy on the November 2026 general election ballot.

If approved by voters, the levy would raise approximately $1.24 million annually, dedicated exclusively to maintaining and supporting essential public safety services.

These services include police staffing and training, 911 dispatch, jail services, prosecution and public defense, and crisis intervention and mental health diversion programs.

“Lake Forest Park residents recognize the value of a local, dedicated police department,” said Mayor Tom French.

“This measure is about preserving those vital services and ensuring our first responders have the tools and resources they need to keep our community safe.”

The proposed levy would add $0.22 per $1,000 of assessed property value and appear on property tax bills beginning in 2027. It would remain in effect for six years, with annual adjustments based on inflation.

Rising costs for police operations, dispatch, jail services, and court-related expenses—compounded by a 24% increase in inflation over the past four years—have outpaced Lake Forest Park’s ability to collect property taxes, which are limited by state law.

Without additional revenue, the City faces difficult decisions about reducing public safety services. In the current budget, officials relied on approximately $880,000 in one-time funds and made over $455,000 in spending cuts. 

These temporary measures are not sustainable in the long term.

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Kenmore kitchen fire safely contained

Aftermath of kitchen fire. Photo courtesy Shoreline Fire.

On Friday, June 26, 2026, Shoreline Fire responded to a reported kitchen fire in a home in Kenmore.

Thanks to the quick actions of the occupants, who got out safely and called 911 immediately, and the rapid response from the firefighters, the fire was quickly brought under control and contained to the kitchen. No injuries were reported.

Fire vehicles at scene. Photo courtesy Shoreline Fire

Kitchen fires are one of the most common types of residential fires. 

Here are a few reminders to help keep your home safe:
Stay in the kitchen whenever you're cooking on the stove-top.
Keep anything that can burn—towels, paper products, oven mitts, and curtains—away from the stove.
If a small pan fire occurs, slide a lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Never use water on a grease fire.
If the fire is growing or you feel unsafe, get everyone out, close the door behind you if possible, and call 911 from outside.

We're grateful everyone made it out safely today, and we appreciate our crews' quick work to protect lives and property.

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Shoreline Youth Soccer Jamboree & International Market July 12, 2026

Shoreline Youth Soccer Jamboree & International Market

Sunday, July 12, 2026 from 9:00am – 5:00pm
Shoreline A/B Soccer Fields, 19030 1st Ave NE

Celebrate the world's game right here in Shoreline! 

As part of the Shoreline Global Celebration Events, the Shoreline Youth Soccer Jamboree & International Market brings together youth soccer, culture, and community for a day of fun. 

The event features a free 5v5 soccer jamboree for players ages U9–U12 (registration required), along with live performances, cultural celebrations, an International Marketplace showcasing local vendors, and global food offerings. 

Whether you're cheering from the sidelines, shopping the marketplace, or enjoying cuisine from around the world, everyone is invited to experience this welcoming celebration of community and culture.

Register for soccer here

  

More information here

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Shoreline Rotary Welcomes Carol Salter as President for the 2026-27 Year

On July 1, 2026 Carol Salter steps into her new role
as Club President for the 2026-27 Rotary year.
Photo courtesy of Shoreline Rotary.

The Shoreline Rotary Club is proud to announce the installation of Carol Salter as its new Club President for the 2026-27 Rotary year. Salter has been an active Rotarian for seven years and steps into the leadership role with a deep commitment to service, a strong background in community advocacy, and an energized vision for the upcoming program year serving the Shoreline Community.

Salter brings over 35 years of dedicated experience providing employment, training, and supportive housing services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She currently serves as the Executive Director of Banchero Disability Partners, where she oversees critical 24/7 wraparound and independent housing services. 

Her extensive career also includes serving as the past President and CEO for Easterseals Oregon, working collaboratively across more than 30 states to promote seamless service models for vulnerable populations—including seniors, at-risk youth, and veterans. 

Academically, she holds a master’s degree in education from George Washington University, with a specialized focus on Transitional Services for youth with Autism.

"I am incredibly honored to serve as President of Shoreline Rotary for this coming year," Salter said. "Our club has a long-standing legacy of making a tangible difference right here in our neighborhoods and around the world, and our goals for 2026-27 will keep that momentum going strong."

Under Salter’s leadership, Shoreline Rotary has laid out a robust agenda designed to support local youth, enhance education, and protect the local environment. 

Key initiatives for the 2026-27 program year include: 

• The Annual Christmas Shopping Spree: The club will once again fully fund this beloved holiday tradition, ensuring that local children in need can experience a bright and joyful holiday season.
• School Patrol Support: Recognizing the importance of student safety, the club is planning to support safety patrols at four to six different local schools over the next year.
• Expanded Academic Scholarships: The club will manage two separate, distinct scholarship funds this year. Each fund features unique eligibility criteria, allowing the club to reach a wider, more diverse pool of student applicants pursuing higher education and vocational training.
• Hands-On Community Service: Rotarians will hit the ground running with targeted community service projects focusing on local environmental sustainability and youth education.
• Empowering the Next Generation: Strong emphasis will be placed on mentoring and supporting Shoreline's Interact group, fostering leadership skills and a passion for service in local high school students.

Shoreline Rotary invites community members, business owners, and anyone interested in making a local impact across the Shoreline area to join them at an upcoming meeting. Under Salter’s guidance, the club is looking forward to a dynamic year of growth, fellowship, and Service Above Self.

For more information about upcoming meetings, scholarship applications, or how to get involved, please visit the official ⁠Shoreline Rotary Club website.

--Judy Maccully

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Driver arrested after flipping car

Shoreline Fire on scene of rollover incident. Photo by Patricia Hale

Thursday night, June 25, 2026 just before 10pm, a vehicle traveling eastbound on NE 165th St in Ridgecrest clipped the left rear corner of an unoccupied vehicle parked at the curb, just east of 6th Ave NE, and flipped on its side.

The driver and passenger, a male and female, were helped out of their vehicle by patrons of the Ridgecrest Pub.

Photo by Patricia Hale

Fire and police responded. The occupants of the vehicle stated they did not need medical treatment. Fire cleared the call and left with police department on scene. 

The driver was arrested for suspicion of Driving Under the Influence.

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Jenny the Jumping Spider says...

Photo copyright Gloria Z. Nagler

“Yeah, in kindergarten the kids used to call me Four Eyes, but then I got contact lenses and they stopped…”

Saw Jenny on a fencepost at a park the other day. Ain’t she beautiful? Especially the reddish marks above her eyes. They don’t use spider webs to catch their prey/food, but instead, yes indeed, they jump on ‘em. 

They need and have excellent depth perception thanks to their eyes. Harmless to humans, as are almost all spiders.

--Gloria Z. Nagler

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Shoreline College awards its first bachelor’s degrees to dental hygiene graduates

20 dental hygiene graduates awarded the first bachelor's degrees from Shoreline College

On Thursday, June 18, 2026, Shoreline College celebrated a historic milestone as the 20 graduates of its Dental Hygiene program became the first cohort of students to earn bachelor’s degrees from the college.

“I am incredibly proud of our graduates, and their increased participation in community health and interprofessional education with dental and medical students,” said dental hygiene professor Nikki Honey.

Launched in 2024, the Bachelor of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene (BASDH), which built upon the curriculum of the college’s Associate of Applied Science degree, requires students to complete 119 credits of intensive dental hygiene courses following the successful completion of all program prerequisites.

Shoreline’s Dental Hygiene program operates in partnership with the University of Washington School of Dentistry. Students earn their degrees through Shoreline College and are taught by Shoreline dental hygiene faculty, but the program is housed on the University of Washington Seattle campus. 

Speaking at this year’s Dental Hygiene Pinning Ceremony, Andre Ritter, Dean of the UW School of Dentistry, praised the graduates and expressed his hopes for an ongoing partnership.

“It is no surprise to us that Shoreline students are sought after by the School of Dentistry alumni and other dentists in Washington State, by DSO’s [Dental Support Organizations], and by community health centers,” said Mr. Ritter.

“The UW School of Dentistry is firmly committed to the Shoreline Dental Hygiene program. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Shoreline’s faculty and leadership for many years.”

The BASDH program was designed to prepare highly skilled healthcare professionals and to tackle the pressing need for qualified dental hygienists in Washington State, particularly in rural areas where access to dental care is limited.

The shortage of trained dental hygienists has been an ongoing challenge in Washington. According to research published by the University of Washington Center for Health Workforce Studies, dental hygienists have been in high demand for many years, and additional graduates are needed to fill long-term vacancies across the state.

To further address this need, Mr. Ritter discussed his hopes for continued growth of the program. “Ultimately, we hope to expand to 30 students in each class to help remedy the shortage of dental hygienists in Washington State.”

This first cohort of baccalaureate graduates will begin to address that shortage as they, in the words of 2026 graduate Emily Dietzel, “leave with a shared purpose: to preserve the health of our communities and improve the lives of the patients we serve.”

“This is an incredibly important milestone for Shoreline College as we award our first bachelor's degrees in dental hygiene,” shared Dr. Jack Kahn, president of Shoreline College.

“Our partnership with the University of Washington exemplifies our commitment to student success, bringing institutions together to create opportunities that are stronger and more impactful than any one of us could achieve alone. Congratulations to all the graduates and thank you to everyone past and present who helped turn this vision into reality.”

New cohorts begin the BASDH program every summer. The BASDH classes of 2027 and 2028 are both fully enrolled with 20 students each.

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Jobs: WSDOT Transportation Engineer 3 (In-Training)

WSDOT

Transportation Engineer 3
Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$68,014 – $111,409 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking multiple motivated and detail-oriented Transportation Engineer 3 In-Training professionals to join our team in Shoreline, WA. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering transportation improvements that enhance safety, mobility, and reliability for communities across Washington. You will develop plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&E) for signing, traffic signal and illumination systems, power supply systems, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), and low-cost enhancement (Q-Design) projects that help keep the state’s transportation network operating efficiently.

See link for more information, including details on how to apply: LINK

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11th Annual Snohomish Summer Smash gearing up for play

The Snohomish Summer Smash, a four day tournament for high school players ages 14-18, returns to the Snohomish High School Tennis Courts July 16-19, 2026. 

Registration costs are $45 for Singles players and $70 for Doubles and Mixed Doubles teams, with proceeds going to the Snohomish High School tennis programs.

The Summer Smash started in 2015 as an opportunity for high school players who weren't competing in USTA tournaments, giving them competition in a fun environment; that first year, 48 players took part. 

Lack of opportunities to play after the Pandemic created more demand, and now every year 185 players from high schools around the region battle it out on the courts, making the Summer Smash one of the largest non-USTA tournaments in the state.

The registration deadline for the Summer Smash is July 8th; players interested in participating can go to snohomishsummersmash.com for more information.

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15-year-old boy seriously injured in North Seattle accidental shooting

Seattle police are investigating a shooting Tuesday night, June 23, 2026 near the Greenwood neighborhood that left a 15-year-old boy seriously injured.

At about 10:47pm, officers responded to reports of a shooting near North 93rd St and Aurora Ave North. 

When officers arrived, they were updated they needed to go to the sidewalk at 10507 Aurora Avenue North.

Officers arrived at that address and found Seattle Fire Department (SFD) medics treating a male suffering from a gunshot wound to the torso. The victim was stabilized and transported to Harborview Medical Center in serious condition.

Witnesses originally reported the victim was standing on the sidewalk when a dark colored sedan approached. A passenger in the vehicle fired multiple shots, striking the victim. The vehicle left the scene in an unknown direction.

Early Wednesday morning police learned that the shooting possibly occurred inside a vehicle, not on the sidewalk. The passenger in the back seat was manipulating a handgun and accidentally shot the driver. 

Shortly after, the shooter exited the vehicle and ran away. The victim then drove a few more blocks and stopped upon seeing SFD on an unrelated call. When the gunshot victim sought out firefighter medics for help, several other passengers then exited his vehicle and ran away. 

This version of what happened appeared to be more consistent with information received from SPD’s Real Time Crime Center.

Detectives with the Gun Violence Reduction Unit will be leading the investigation are working to determine what led to the shooting.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Seattle Police Department Violent Crimes Tip Line at (206) 233-5000.

Incident: 2026-181792/North Precinct

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Food Drive Saturday June 27, 2026 Richmond Beach Congregational Church

Food drives are critical in the summer because many children lose access to free or reduced-price school meals when classes end. This massive surge in household food needs quickly drains local pantries, which historically receive far fewer donations during the summer months than during the winter. Our quarterly food drive is more important than ever. 

Please join us in helping our neighbors by dropping your donations off this Saturday, June 27, 2026 from 11:00am - 1:00pm. Drive thru…upper parking lot.

These items are particularly needed:

 Low sodium, no sugar added, packed in water or juice

 Pop-top cans are appreciated, not everyone has access to a can opener

 Canned vegetables: green beans, peas, corn

 Canned fruit (any variety) 

 Canned chicken 

 Canned tuna 

 Coffee (instant or ground)

 Shelf-stable milk 

 100% fruit juice (no sugar added)

 Brown rice

 Whole-grain pasta 

 Long-grain rice

 Spices (salt, pepper, sugar)

 Flour

 Pancake mixes

 Condiments 

 Dry black beans

 Dry red beans

 Oats

 Dry soup mix

 Mac n cheese

 Pasta

 Vegetable-based oils

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Statement on federal ruling striking down Trump's Executive Order on mail-in voting

OLYMPIA — Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs applauded a federal ruling Thursday that blocks President Trump’s unconstitutional March 2026 Executive Order on mail-in voting for the November General Election.

The order and a proposed rule by the U.S. Postal Service would require states to submit lists of voters who are eligible to receive ballots to the USPS. 

This would give the federal government control over who can and cannot vote by mail. 

At a Senate hearing on Wednesday, Postmaster General David Steiner said the Postal Service would not deliver mail-in ballots in states that refused to turn over their voter rolls.

In a multi-state lawsuit co-led by Washington state, a judge ruled that neither the President nor the Postal Service has the constitutional authority to enact these requirements, and that the USPS must continue delivering mail-in ballots to all Washington voters.

“The Postal Service’s founding mission was to ‘bind the nation together.’ Now, the federal government is using it as a tool to try and take over our free and fair elections,” Secretary Hobbs said.

“I applaud today’s ruling. I will continue to fight to protect Washington voters’ private information and our state’s constitutional right to administer elections.”

 

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This weekend - Festival of Shorts

Edmonds Driftwood Players Friday, June 26 (8:00pm) Saturday, June 27 (2:00pm matinee) Saturday, June 27 (8:00pm) Sunday, June 28 (2:00pm matinee) SOLD OUT FLASH Friends & Family Discount! Use Code: EDPFEST to save 20% Available online at www.EdmondsDriftwoodPlayers.org/shows-tickets/ or by phone at 425-774-9600 Content Info: this festival contains some mild adult themes best suited for ages teen+ PURCHASE TICKETS!

Edmonds Driftwood Players

Do you have tickets yet for THIS WEEKEND's 15th Annual Festival of Shorts!? Come support the art of playwriting THIS WEEKEND at EDP's annual playwriting festival where YOU the audience gets to vote for your favorites! The festival features 8 short play finalists that include 8 directors and 8 casts (see show descriptions below!).  The theme for 2026 is “MILESTONES: markers in time of significant achievements or events” that include both comedic and dramatic stories. The finalists were selected from 300 script submissions from around the world!    After the closing performance on 6/28, we will announce the playwright winners for: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place Judges’ Awards Overall Audience Favorite Award

Thank you to Edmonds business The Branding Iron for sponsoring the 15th Annual Festival of Shorts! The Theatre is located at 950 Main Street, Edmonds WA 98020

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