Scene on the Sound: Noctiluca scintillans

Monday, June 29, 2026

Photo by Bill Schnall

This pink or reddish orange algae bloom occurs intermittently over the warmer months caused by Noctiluca scintillans — a harmless single cell organism totally unrelated to the more worrisome red tide.

--Bill Schnall


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Financial literacy for teens - online class July 1, 2026 from 7-8pm


ShoreLake Arts and BECU present a financial literacy webinar Wednesday, July 1, 2026 from 7 - 8pm for teens and their parents.

This week, July 1 at 7pm is a webinar for tweens, teens, and the adults who care for them to be better financially educated as our youth sell their first pieces of art, start their first jobs, leave the nest.

ShoreLake Arts has partnered with Ballinger BECU because we know the credit card offers, fraud, and scams that await can trick even the most savvy into bad circumstances.

The event is free and open to all interested. It's a webinar, so one sided communication, however, we will monitor the chat for questions.

What to expect:
  • Understand the fundamentals of building credit
  • Protect from the targeted practices of credit card companies
  • Tips to protect from financial scams with the latest fraud prevention techniques and cybersecurity best practices

So, grab something to take notes and dial in at the start of the meeting. No pre-registration required, no class size limit. 

"We're doing all we can to make this easy for all."


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July 8, 2026 at Third Place Books: Elena Taylor

The latest chapter in local author Elena Taylor's Sheriff Bet Rivers saga follows the female sheriff of a small Washington town as she races against time to solve a murder at the local carnival. 

Award-winning mystery and thriller author Robert Dugoni joins in conversation.

📅 Wednesday July 8, 2026 at 7pm
📍 Third Place Books Lake Forest Park​
Town Center, intersection Bothell and Ballinger Way NE

RSVP Here


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Another Zombie flip house - this one in Kenmore

The yard clean up was partially done

Inside the preservation of a severely mold-damaged home in Kenmore's Arrowhead Point neighborhood

A Kenmore home that was nearly torn down is the subject of Episode 8 of Million Dollar Zombie Flips Season 2, which aired Saturday, June 27, 2026 on A&E, and the transformation is one of the most dramatic of the season.

The home is in the Arrowhead Point neighborhood at 15505 62nd Pl NE, Kenmore, WA 98028.

The home was purchased sight unseen, originally brought to James Dainard as a teardown opportunity.

James, host of Million Dollar Zombie Flips, chose to save it: "Once I saw it, I knew I wanted to save it. Most people would've torn it down, but I saw the potential."

Mold damage was throughout the house

Once utilities were restored, the scale of the damage became clear: a broken copper pipe inside the kitchen wall had caused a massive leak, and the home had sat vacant for six to nine months, long enough for mold to spread throughout the entire structure. 

Walls covered with mold

The team gutted the house to its framing, replaced rotten wood, and fully treated and primed the structure before any rebuild could begin.

The house was one of the most dramatic of the season.

Beyond the mold, the layout itself was one of the hardest puzzles the team has faced. Rooflines cut into the upstairs floor plan, and rooms felt chopped up. 


James and his team redesigned it from two bedrooms and an office into a true three-bedroom, two-bath home with a formal ensuite. 


They also preserved the home's original Northwest contemporary window schedule, spending an additional $15,000 on windows to maintain the original design proportions.


To address the lack of usable outdoor space, they invested nearly $40,000 in landscaping and tree limbing.

This opened up the views over Lake Washington and created a functional yard.


This was a meaningful upgrade in Kenmore's Arrowhead Point neighborhood, where the mix of renovated mid-century and Northwest contemporary homes makes outdoor living and views a big part of the appeal.

Photos courtesy Million Dollar Flip



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Porch Solar, Plug-in Solar, Balcony Solar

Plug in solar panel
By Sarah Phillips

The news is full of the rising cost of electricity. The Seattle Times reported on June 18, 2026 that Seattle City Light anticipates rate increases of 9.5 percent for each of the next three years.

Are there any solutions on the horizon?

Maybe, although it is not legal in Washington, several states including Utah and New York are allowing individuals to purchase plug-in solar, also called porch solar or balcony solar.

Three names for the same thing. 

Plug-in solar is an innovation in the solar industry. These units cost between S500-1000, can be purchased at stores like IKEA or Home Depot, and generate solar power for your home. 

The solar panel itself is a small unit that generates a direct current (DC). An inverter converts DC to alternating current (AC), which goes into your house or apartment’s electrical system through a standard wall socket.

The panels are portable
Plug-In solar is being used in Germany. In the last three years over 1 million installations have occurred. 

It is surprisingly simple. Utah and New York have recently passed legislation to allow Plug-in Solar. As of now, Washington state does not allow these units.

The energy from these small units do not fully replace all your energy costs. They are however a low-cost clean energy and they can be used in outage prone areas like Lake Forest Park when the plug-in solar is connected to a battery. 

Because they are portable, they can be moved from one home or apartment to another. Power to the People: How 'Balcony Solar' Could Help Fight Rising Utility Costs

The research suggested that the payback period is about 5 years. The payback period depends on several factors:
  • the cost of electricity
  • the cost of the initial unit

Can they be purchased in Washington state? Not yet. What needs to happen is similar from state to state.

  1. Define a new class of small solar systems, distinguishing plug-in solar from the larger rooftop arrays that existing rules were designed for.
  2. Exempt small systems from utility interconnection requirements and approvals, eliminating permitting delays and expensive interconnection fees.
  3. Require product safety certifications, protecting both consumers and utility workers.

Plug-In solar on display

Interested in seeing one of these units for yourself? The LFP Climate Hub and Third Act will be showing off one of these units at the July 19 Farmers Market. Drop by to see how it works.

Photo used with permission BrightSaver


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Shoreline / Seattle: Overnight concrete panel replacement, crack sealing work continues along I-5 during overnight hours

Photo courtesy WSDOT
Overnight lane and ramp closures along I-5 in Seattle resume Saturday night, June 27, 2026 for ongoing work on a regional pavement repair project.

I-5 lane and ramp closure details:
  • The I-5 express lanes will close early at 9:30pm Saturday, June 27.
The following closures are planned from as early as 9pm Saturday, June 27 and Monday, June 29 and will reopen at 5am the next morning:
  • Southbound I-5 on-ramp from NE 130th St.
  • Up to four lanes of southbound I-5 between NE 155th St and Northgate Way.
The following closures are planned from as early as 9pm to 5am nightly Monday, June 29, through Wednesday morning, July 1:
  • Up to three lanes of northbound I-5 between Lake City Way and Northgate Way.
  • Northbound I-5 off-ramp to Northgate Way.
The following closure is planned from as early as 9pm to 5am nightly Tuesday, June 30, through Thursday morning, July 2:
  • Up to four lanes of northbound I-5 between the Ship Canal Bridge and NE 175th St.
The following closures are planned from as early as 9pm Thursday, July 2 to 5am Friday, July 3:
  • Up to three lanes of northbound I-5 between NE 50th St and Ship Canal Bridge.
  • The northbound I-5 on-ramp from King County Metro Bus Barn.
  • The southbound I-5 on-ramp from NE 175th St.
  • Up to three lanes of southbound I-5 between NE 145th St and NE 185th St.
  • Up to two lanes of southbound I-5 between Lake City Way and NE 45th St.
This regional pavement repair project will improve the driving surface in more than 70 locations in King, Snohomish, Skagit and Whatcom counties.

As part of this project, contractor crews are replacing 89 concrete panels along the I-5 corridor in Seattle and Shoreline.


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KENMORE: Plan ahead for overnight lane closures on SR 522 this week

Bus Rapid Transit work in Kenmore
Photo courtesy Sound Transit
Sound Transit crews will close the two right lanes of eastbound SR 522 and two right lanes of westbound SR 522 at 68th Ave NE, 61st Ave NE, and 73rd Ave NE from 6pm to 6am nightly from Monday, June 29 through the morning of Friday, July 3, 2026. 

The work is to support the ongoing Bus Rapid Transit Line in Kenmore.


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Lake Forest Park: Paving complete on 35th Ave NE but more work to be done

Paving complete but more work to come
The contractor completed preliminary paving on 35th Ave NE Thursday afternoon and reopened the road at about 5pm.

This marks an important milestone for the SR 104/Lyon Creek fish passage project.

But there is still more work to be done in this area. Over the next 10 days, crews will continue working on 35th Ave NE and NE 185th St before shifting to SR 104/Ballinger Way NE. This tentative schedule depends on favorable weather and site conditions.

What to expect

NE 185th Street
  • NE 185th Street will close at Lyon Creek from 11am to 5pm Monday, June 29, 2026 and from 7am to 5pm each day Tuesday, June 30, through Thursday, July 2.
35th Avenue NE
  • At 11am. Monday, June 26, 35th Ave NE will close around the clock until Monday afternoon, July 6.
  • This closure will allow crews to complete jackhammering work around sewer covers. Getting this noisy work done during ongoing daytime sewer work on NE 185th St means we will not have to do it overnight later this summer.
SR 104/Ballinger Way NE
  • SR 104/Ballinger Way NE will close from 7am to 5pm daily starting Tuesday, July 7, between NE 195th St and 35th Ave NE.
  • Local access will be permitted between NE 195th St and Lyon Creek.
  • Signed detours will be in place.
  • This closure date is dependent on weather and site conditions and may change.


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

Sunday, June 28, 2026

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. 


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

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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 

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

Saturday, June 27, 2026

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!

 




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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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