Sunset and clear skies
Monday, September 21, 2026
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| Photo by Lee Lageschulte |
We are being warned that the weather is about to change, turn cold and cloudy.
So enjoy the sunsets while we can still see them!
--Diane
We are being warned that the weather is about to change, turn cold and cloudy.
Shoreline Fire commits to training and education
At Shoreline Fire Department, every position is committed to continuous training and education—because our profession is always evolving, and so must we.
This week showcased that dedication across multiple divisions:
• Our entire Fire Mechanics Division attended the 2026 Washington Fire Mechanics Fall Conference.
• Members of our Executive Team and Bothell's participated in the King County Fire Chiefs Leadership Summit.
• Our Public Information Officer represented us at the PNW Comms Summit.
We’re proud of our people for staying sharp, staying informed, and staying ahead in the industry.
Always learning. Always improving. Always ready. 🔥💪
A New Era for Amtrak Cascades: Airo Fleet Debuts September 30, 2026
Pacific Northwest customers will be the first in the nation to experience Amtrak’s newest trains
PACIFIC NORTHWEST – Beginning Sept. 30, customers can experience the new Airo trainsets on the Amtrak Cascades as Amtrak introduces its newest fleet into passenger service. Two trainsets, operating four daily trips, will begin carrying customers on launch day, marking the first phase of Airo’s introduction between Vancouver, B.C., Seattle, Portland and Eugene, Oregon.
As the rollout continues, additional trainsets will enter service through early 2027 bringing more seats, modern amenities, enhanced accessibility, panoramic windows and a refreshed onboard experience to even more Amtrak Cascades customers.
“The arrival of the new Airo fleet marks an exciting moment for the Amtrak Cascades and passenger rail in the Pacific Northwest,” said Amtrak Interim President Byl Herrmann.
“After extensive planning, design, manufacturing and testing, we’re just weeks away from welcoming customers aboard. This is an important milestone not only for Amtrak Cascades customers, but for Amtrak’s broader effort to modernize and expand passenger rail across the country.”
Designed for the Pacific Northwest
The new trainsets feature the signature Amtrak Cascades evergreen, cream and mocha color palette along with design elements inspired by the Cascade mountain range. The arrival of the new fleet marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for passenger rail across the Pacific Northwest.
“These new Amtrak Cascades trains are a game-changer for rail travel in the Pacific Northwest,” said WSDOT Secretary Julie Meredith. “They bring improved reliability, comfort, and amenities to one of the most scenic rail corridors in the country. We’re particularly excited to be the first in the nation to introduce these new trains into service.”
A New Experience Onboard
The new trainsets are designed to make every trip more comfortable, convenient and connected. Inside, customers will find more than 300 seats per trainset along with a range of features that enhance the onboard experience.
- Enhanced comfort: Ergonomically designed seating with adjustable headrests, panoramic windows, enhanced lighting and modern interiors.
- More ways to stay connected: Complimentary Wi-Fi, individual power outlets and USB ports, and digital customer information displays.
- Improved accessibility: Accessible seating and features throughout the train, automated steps, enhanced wayfinding and six spacious restrooms with touchless controls.
- A refreshed Cafe experience: Featuring food and beverage offerings inspired by the Pacific Northwest.
Be Among the First to Ride
The initial launch on Sept. 30 will feature two trainsets operating four daily trips, connecting communities across the Pacific Northwest.
Northbound*
- Train 516: Seattle → Vancouver, B.C. | 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
- Train 508: Eugene → Seattle | 4:30 p.m. – 10:50 p.m.
- Train 503: Seattle → Eugene | 7:10 a.m. – 1:48 p.m.
- Train 519: Vancouver, B.C. → Seattle | 4:45 p.m. – 9:10 p.m.
AG Brown leads coalition to block feds from obtaining personal information of commercial driver's license holders
Attorney General Nick Brown and a coalition of 23 attorneys general secured a preliminary injunction that blocks the federal government from demanding the sensitive personal information of 17 million drivers who hold commercial driver’s licenses, and from terminating more than $10 million in federal funding to the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA).
“When Washingtonians give the government their private information, it should be kept safe and secure—and it should only be used for its intended purpose,” said Brown. “This order is the latest example of our office keeping Washingtonians’ personal data safe from federal overreach.”
In August, Brown and the coalition filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, as well as an additional related lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security. The lawsuits claim the federal agencies are violating multiple federal privacy laws by secretly setting up their own database with records extorted from AAMVA, with no guardrails on the use or sharing of drivers’ Social Security numbers and other personal information, and no notice to the public.
A week later, the court issued a temporary restraining order, immediately blocking the administration from obtaining this sensitive information. Today’s preliminary injunction extends that relief by continuing to block the demand going forward as the attorneys general continue to litigate the ongoing case.
Brown filed these lawsuits with attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin, as well as the states of Kentucky and Pennsylvania.
Brown has joined fellow state attorneys general in several legal challenges to the Trump administration’s attempts to unlawfully use Washingtonians’ personal data for improper purposes, including immigration enforcement. Washington has successfully challenged the administration’s attempt to access Washingtonians’ data retained through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Medicaid, and recently filed a similar case released to the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program.
Shoreline student named 2026 Davidson Fellow
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| Khaos Kook named Davidson Fellow |
Motivated by a serious head injury that forced him to reconsider his identity as a musician, Kook explored how musicians and newcomers can remain deeply engaged with music through listening, historical research, score study, scientific inquiry, teaching, advocacy and other forms of participation.
Drawing on his own recovery, Kook also developed an evidence-based return-to-instrument protocol designed to provide structured support for musicians returning to their instruments after a concussion.
More information about Kook here
“Being named a Davidson Fellow in Music is especially meaningful to me because my work was born from a period of my life when a serious head injury left me without access to classical music,” Kook said.
“The fellowship provides valuable affirmation that adversity can be turned into a powerful source of inquiry.”
Kook has been invited to solo with six different orchestras across the U.S. and Europe.
More information about Kook here
About the Davidson Institute
Founded by Bob Davidson in 1999, the Davidson Institute recognizes, nurtures and supports profoundly intelligent young people and provides opportunities for them to develop their talents to make a positive difference. The Institute offers support through a number of programs and services, including the Davidson Fellows Scholarship and the Davidson Academy of Nevada.
Founded by Bob Davidson in 1999, the Davidson Institute recognizes, nurtures and supports profoundly intelligent young people and provides opportunities for them to develop their talents to make a positive difference. The Institute offers support through a number of programs and services, including the Davidson Fellows Scholarship and the Davidson Academy of Nevada.
Sears: Going, going...
When you drive into the upper section of Shoreline Place, next to Town & Country Market the Sears building looks pretty much the same.
Aerial views and the back side of the building show a different story.
The final days of the former Sears building in Shoreline are approaching.
The 1967 building is close to being fully demolished, making way for new residential, retail and public open spaces.
When it is gone and replaced with new buildings, will anyone remember or care? Several generations back the Sears catalog was ubiquitous in the western United States. People bought everything from the Sears catalog including houses which were shipped in pieces on the railroad.
I own a beautiful two piece roll top desk (a secretary/china closet) which my great-grandfather bought from the 1910 Sears catalog and had shipped to Washington.
Sears catalogs were used as toilet paper and featured in jokes for many years as a symbol of rural life.
--Diane Hettrick
--Photos by David Carlos
State supreme court candidate Sean O'Donnell visits Sunday sign-waving
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| "In America we don't pledge allegiance to a President" |
At Shoreline-Edmonds line
State supreme court candidate Sean O'Donnell visits Sunday sign-waving
This week's "Social Justice Sundays" sign-waving at the Shoreline-Edmonds line had a short-notice special guest when Washington State Supreme Court Justice Position 4 candidate Judge Sean O'Donnell had a window in his schedule open up.
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| Candidate for re-election Sean O'Donnell speaks to a protestor whose sign reads "Put ballot in dropbox - don't mail" |
O'Donnell, a King County Superior Court judge, made the rounds introducing himself to the roughly 40 area residents attending the regular sign-waving at the intersection of Aurora Avenue North (Hwy 99) and N. 205th St., answering questions on his background, experience, and challenges facing the court and Washington residents.
He was the eighth candidate to accept the invitation sign-waving organizers Everyday Activists extended to the candidates vying for the five open state supreme court positions, along with those for state senate and state representative (positions 1 and 2) in legislative districts 21 and 32 (which together include all or parts of Shoreline, Edmonds, Woodway, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, and North Seattle) after the primary election in August.
They were invited to come by any Sunday sign-waving between then and October 25, 2026. Invitations are still open and additional visitors may be scheduled before the election (Tuesday Nov. 3)
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| "Donald J. Trump - Cheater in Chief" |
Concern for free and fair elections amid President Trump suggesting he and his supporters should cheat and calling for federal interference in state elections (particularly those like Washington State largely conducted by mail), continued violent ICE activities, lack of tax fairness benefitting billionaires over the vast majority, and ever-rising costs exacerbated by the ill-planned war with Iran were among a few of the sign topics this week.
Sign-waving is held every Sunday at this location, 1-2 p.m. Some signs are available to borrow and, as usual, donations of non-perishable food, personal care items and school supplies are accepted for donation to a local organization assisting those in need.
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| "Vote early. We have elections to win. A country to save." |
Also, voters should start planning to fill out their ballots as early as they can and bring them to an official ballot dropbox, if possible. Join a "No Kings! Early Voter Turnout" event October 17 to raise awareness/get info to make sure every vote counts!
Everyday Activists and Indivisible Shoreline WA are collaborating on sign-waving and info-sharing events Saturday, October 17, 10:30am to noon, on Aurora Avenue North (Hwy 99) at the intersections with N 155th St, N 175th St, and N 205th St.
Another opportunity for a CERT class September 23, 2026
Do you live in Kenmore or Lake Forest Park or didn't register in time for the Shoreline CERT class, the Northshore Emergency Management Coalition (NEMCo) is pleased to offer the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Basic Training beginning Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
This free, seven‑week course equips any community member with practical skills to prepare for emergencies, disasters, and other incidents. No prior training or experience is required. CERT is designed for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Classes are taught by trained CERT instructors in Fire Safety, Basic First Aid, Disaster Medical Operations, Light Search & Rescue, Utility Management, and overall preparedness. Regardless of age, background, experience, or capabilities, there is something everyone can do to help themselves, their families, and their community.
The program features interactive, easy‑to‑follow lessons with hands‑on practice, culminating in a realistic disaster simulation to apply new skills with confidence.
Course Details
Dates:
Dates:
- Weekly: Wednesday evenings, September 23rd to November 4th
- Final Exercise: Saturday, November 7th
- Wednesdays: 6:00 – 9:00pm
- Final Exercise: Saturday 8:00am – 4:00pm
- Kenmore, Shoreline Fire Station 51, 7220 NE 181st Street Kenmore, WA 98028
Registration: Sign up online at bit.ly/4bJI3S3
For more information, contact:
- Robin McKenzie, NEMCo Volunteer
- NEMCo.outreach@gmail.com
Flowers for Fall
Sunday, September 20, 2026
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| Photo by Lee Lageschulte |
What better flower for fall then a spectacular orange one? Fancy breed of dahlia perhaps? Come on gardeners - bail me out on this one!
Diane
Vicki Klein, Unsung Hero, Retiring Soon
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| District Athletic Director Don Dalziel with Vicki Klein |
By Frank Workman
There are those people who crave the spotlight, live for it, are even willing to loudly hog it and demand attention, whether they deserve it or not.
Then there are the quiet ones who want nothing to do with being the center of attention, even when the length and the quality of their work calls for it.
Look up the term ‘unsung hero’ in the dictionary (the Shoreline School District version) and you’ll see a picture of Vicki Klein.
Vicki is retiring on October 2, 2026.
For over thirty years she has worked for the District, first in the main office at Parkwood Elementary, and, for the last 19 years, in the District’s Athletic Department as ‘Technician’.
That word ‘technician’ does some seriously heavy lifting.
In addition to handling the administrative details of the District’s Athletic Department during the day, the duties have also included extra work, serving as Events Manager for Shorecrest and Shorewood athletic events at Shoreline Stadium.
In the course of a typical school year, this involves about 30 girls soccer games and 10 football games in the fall. In the spring, there are another 30 boys soccer games and 10 track meets, including the massive production of the Shoreline Invitational Track Meet, held annually on a Saturday in late April/early May, which features close to a thousand athletes from nearly 80+ schools.
Over 19 years, she has witnessed upward of 1,500 games and track meets, and thousands of athletes. Since most games are played in the evening, that’s a lot of nights having dinner at work, usually while standing up and eating with her hands.
District Athletic Director Don Dalziel sings her praises. “Vicki has gone above and beyond in service to the District, and has been an invaluable member of the athletic department. She has been a team player and a true professional.”
Shorecrest Athletic Director and Baseball Coach Alan Bruns cites “her ability to know the many personality types that make up our collection of coaches and she is able to communicate with all of us effectively.”
Vicki says “It’s hard to leave something that you love doing, and working with Don has been amazing. But it’s time to let someone younger take the reins.”
Yet for all the admirable qualities she has brought to her position, what stands out most is the patience, kindness, and grace she carries with her on a daily basis.
She’s quick to laugh out loud and has the brightest smile, plus she has that rare ability to make each person she encounters feel like they’ve been seen, heard, understood, and cared for.
If you’ve attended sporting events at Shoreline Stadium in the last 19 years, chances are they came off without a hitch, and yet you neither saw or noticed Vicki.
That’s how unsung heroes are.
You don’t even notice them.
Read more...
Hillwood Neighborhood to tour Hopelink September 25, 2026
This is a rare opportunity to learn more about Hopelink's broad range of services beyond the no-cost Food Market that Shoreline has supported so generously. The Center is located behind Ronald Methodist Church at 17837 Aurora Ave. N. The tour will last 45 minutes to one hour. Space is limited.
Please sign up via this link by Wednesday, September 23rd:
Please sign up via this link by Wednesday, September 23rd:
Kids Clothing and Gear Sale Saturday October 3, 2026
Seattle Families of Multiples
Saturday October 3, 2026 from 10:00am - 12:30pm
St. Matthew School
Seattle WA 98125
Our community of families with twins and triplets sell a diverse selection of gently used, seasonally appropriate children’s clothing and equipment.
From preemie to pre-teen sizes, including maternity wear, we'll have tons of clothes and shoes.
We also sell toys, books, games, and gear, such as bedding, strollers, crib mattresses, high chairs, potty chairs, safety items, and more.
We’re open to the public and can’t wait to see you there!
Learn more: https://www.seattlemultiples.org/sale
Curious what past sales have looked like? Check out our profile! https://www.facebook.com/seattlemultiplessale
Read more...
Our community of families with twins and triplets sell a diverse selection of gently used, seasonally appropriate children’s clothing and equipment.
From preemie to pre-teen sizes, including maternity wear, we'll have tons of clothes and shoes.
We also sell toys, books, games, and gear, such as bedding, strollers, crib mattresses, high chairs, potty chairs, safety items, and more.
We’re open to the public and can’t wait to see you there!
Learn more: https://www.seattlemultiples.org/sale
Curious what past sales have looked like? Check out our profile! https://www.facebook.com/seattlemultiplessale
Help color the Shoreline Nature Mural at the Downtown Ridgecrest Art Walk September 24, 2026
At the Shoreline Rotary booth, Art Walk visitors of all ages will be invited to participate in the Shoreline Nature Mural, a community art project celebrating the natural places and wildlife that make our area special.
Five large, black-and-white illustrated panels will be waiting for the community to bring them to life. Each 24-by-36-inch panel celebrates a different part of our natural environment: Shoreline Beach, Shoreline Forest, Pollinator Garden, Salmon Stream, and Community Park.
Visitors of all ages can choose colored pencils, markers, or crayons, find a part of the mural that catches their eye, and add their own color. Color a salmon, butterfly, flower, cedar tree, heron, stream—or something entirely different.
No artistic experience is needed, and there’s no “right” way to color it. Each person adds just a little piece, and together those individual contributions will transform five black-and-white drawings into a colorful community-created mural.
That’s part of the idea behind the project: many hands, each making a small contribution, can create something none of us could create alone. It’s also a fitting reflection of how Rotary approaches community service.
The project also introduces visitors to an important part of Rotary service: protecting the environment, Rotary’s seventh Area of Focus. Healthy forests, clean waterways, pollinator habitat, thriving wildlife, and welcoming parks are all part of creating healthy and resilient communities.
The Nature Mural is particularly well suited to the Downtown Ridgecrest Art Walk, where local arts, businesses, neighborhood organizations, and community members come together. The Art Walk is supported by a partnership that includes ShoreLake Arts, Ridgecrest Books, Drumlin, Ridgecrest Public House, and the Ridgecrest Neighborhood Association.
For Shoreline Rotary, the activity is also an invitation to conversation. While someone is adding color to a butterfly, salmon, or cedar tree, Rotarians will be there to talk about local service, environmental stewardship, and ways neighbors can work together to make a difference.
Come find the Shoreline Rotary booth, choose your favorite part of the mural, and paint a piece of Shoreline with us.
Together, we protect our Shoreline.
That’s part of the idea behind the project: many hands, each making a small contribution, can create something none of us could create alone. It’s also a fitting reflection of how Rotary approaches community service.
The project also introduces visitors to an important part of Rotary service: protecting the environment, Rotary’s seventh Area of Focus. Healthy forests, clean waterways, pollinator habitat, thriving wildlife, and welcoming parks are all part of creating healthy and resilient communities.
The Nature Mural is particularly well suited to the Downtown Ridgecrest Art Walk, where local arts, businesses, neighborhood organizations, and community members come together. The Art Walk is supported by a partnership that includes ShoreLake Arts, Ridgecrest Books, Drumlin, Ridgecrest Public House, and the Ridgecrest Neighborhood Association.
For Shoreline Rotary, the activity is also an invitation to conversation. While someone is adding color to a butterfly, salmon, or cedar tree, Rotarians will be there to talk about local service, environmental stewardship, and ways neighbors can work together to make a difference.
Come find the Shoreline Rotary booth, choose your favorite part of the mural, and paint a piece of Shoreline with us.
Together, we protect our Shoreline.
Shoreline Police collect 211 guns at buyback event
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| Photos courtesy Shoreline Police |
Our recent GUN BUYBACK event was a success! Thanks to the amazing support from our community, we achieved the following:
Firearms collected: 211, and distributed $34,050 in gift cards.
Thank you to our partners, Public-Health King County, Shoreline Community College and King County Sheriff’s Office.
Activity at site of former Shari's restaurant
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| Site of former Shari's at Parkwood Plaza Photo by David Carlos |
There's activity at the former Shari's Restaurant and Pies at 15252 Aurora Ave. N. in Parkwood Plaza.
A leasing listing on cityfeet.com describes plans for a small multi-tenant retail strip: a 4,800-square-foot, one-story building that could accommodate up to four tenants, each with about 1,200 square feet.
The listing estimates availability around February 2027.
A commercial permit (COM25-2716) is under review and nearing completion but hasn't been formally issued yet.
The Shoreline Shari's closed in August 2024, with demolition following in July 2025.
Read more...
The listing estimates availability around February 2027.
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| Parkwood Plaza photo by David Carlos |
A commercial permit (COM25-2716) is under review and nearing completion but hasn't been formally issued yet.
The Shoreline Shari's closed in August 2024, with demolition following in July 2025.
Federal cuts to public health system and Harborview Medical Center
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| King County Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda |
Presenters at the King County Board of Health on Thursday outlined in stark detail sweeping federal cuts to the county’s public health system and to Harborview Medical Center due to the impacts of federal House Resolution 1 (HR1).
The first major coverage losses go into effect in two weeks, when lawful permanent residents lose Medicaid coverage, followed by major enrollment changes and reimbursement cuts starting in 2027.
Representatives from the County Executive’s federal team, Harborview Medical Center, and Public Health – Seattle & King County detailed the expected coverage loss for upwards of 215,000 residents in King County alone, and the loss of tens of millions of dollars to the county’s public health system and county hospital.
The expected federal cuts compound existing revenue shortfalls projected at Harborview and Public Health – for which two revenue tools were already passed by the State Legislature to provide additional taxing authority to King County after outcry about the projected deficit even prior to HR1.
The expected federal cuts compound existing revenue shortfalls projected at Harborview and Public Health – for which two revenue tools were already passed by the State Legislature to provide additional taxing authority to King County after outcry about the projected deficit even prior to HR1.
On Thursday, Board of Health Chair Teresa Mosqueda noted the need for the council to activate the revenue tools granted by the state Legislature to invest in the King County-owned Harborview Medical Center and the public health clinics and services:
Devastating impacts in King County alone include:
Beginning October 1, an estimated 4,000 lawfully present residents in King County will lose federally funded Medicaid eligibility starting October 1st—this population includes refugees, people granted asylum, and survivors of human trafficking.
- HR 2442: Approximately $45.8 million could be generated annually for public health investments with councilmanic passage of the five-cent property tax authorized for King County by the state legislature earlier this year.
- SB 2348: An additional $45.8 million could be generated annually for Harborview Medical Center by fully implementing the taxing authority, another five cents, within the authority granted by the state legislature in 2024.
- Further, the council could release $31 million set aside for Harborview’s Medicaid cut responses from the amount already collected from this taxing pool to help respond, in part, to the expected impact of HR1.
Devastating impacts in King County alone include:
Beginning October 1, an estimated 4,000 lawfully present residents in King County will lose federally funded Medicaid eligibility starting October 1st—this population includes refugees, people granted asylum, and survivors of human trafficking.
Beginning Jan. 2027, new federal work requirements and more frequent eligibility checks will affect an Apple Health coverage group that includes about 215,000 King County residents. Many will remain eligible, but the additional requirements and paperwork are expected to cause some people to lose coverage.
Beginning Jan. 2028, reductions to Medicaid directed payments that help hospitals cover the cost of care will begin taking effect. Harborview currently receives more than $260 million annually in supplemental Medicaid payments and projects that funding will decline to roughly zero over the following decade.
HR1 is expected to dismantle healthcare coverage to pre-Affordable Care Act (ACA) levels. The ACA reduced uninsured patients at Harborview to 4%, and due to HR1 their uninsured population served is expected to climb back to 13%. The hospital projects $120 million in enrollment-related losses in the first full year of HR1 alone.
HR1 is expected to dismantle healthcare coverage to pre-Affordable Care Act (ACA) levels. The ACA reduced uninsured patients at Harborview to 4%, and due to HR1 their uninsured population served is expected to climb back to 13%. The hospital projects $120 million in enrollment-related losses in the first full year of HR1 alone.
Harborview leaders told the Board that patients who lose insurance do not stop needing care. They are more likely to delay treatment and arrive sicker and with more complex needs, while Harborview receives less funding to provide that care.
Sommer Kleweno-Walley, CEO, Harborview Medical Center said during Thursday’s BOH hearing, “one incorrect thing that people think is this is only going to impact marginalized individuals, individuals who are vulnerable. That is not true. When hospitals, health systems and clinics close programs - because they can’t afford to keep the doors open anymore - they don’t close them just for Medicaid or just for underinsured or uninsured. When programs close, those programs close for everybody.
"We shouldn’t think this is a problem for just those who are most vulnerable, this is a problem for all Washingtonians and particularly for those in King County.”
Mark Ritacco, Senior Policy Advisor at Manatt noted, “people who lose access to Medicaid, who lose access to behavioral healthcare don’t simply get better on their own, they end up showing up for county services more often than they would otherwise.”
Mosqueda concluded, “the state cannot fill this gap, and King County cannot fill it alone, but that does not mean we are powerless. We know these cuts are coming. We have these revenue tools at our disposal to invest in the safety net that is Harborview and our public health clinics - the time to act is now.”
Constitution with a Beat - join as reader or musician September 24, 2026
The Constitution Day Collective is excited to share a community project that a group of community members have started to organize, and more importantly, to invite you to be part of it.
The idea is called “Constitution with a Beat” It will be a community reading and spoken-word performance of the United States Constitution, bringing together local community members, elected officials, students, artists, musicians, and performers on Thursday September 24, 2026 starting at 6:30pm.
At its heart, the idea is pretty simple: we want to hear the Constitution spoken aloud by the people who make up our community.
Rather than having one person stand at a podium and read the document, we’re envisioning a collective performance where different people take on different sections. Local officials and community members will read portions of the Constitution, while musicians and performers help create an engaging atmosphere around the reading.
This is intended to be a civic education event—not a political rally or partisan event. The goal is simply to create an opportunity for people to come together, listen to the words of the Constitution, learn a little more about the document itself, and think about what those words mean within the context of our communities today.
We really want this to feel like a community-created event, rather than something organized by just a small group of people. That’s why we’re reaching out as we’d love to have members from every Shoreline neighborhood represented in this event.
There are two primary ways we’re hoping people might participate:
Rather than having one person stand at a podium and read the document, we’re envisioning a collective performance where different people take on different sections. Local officials and community members will read portions of the Constitution, while musicians and performers help create an engaging atmosphere around the reading.
This is intended to be a civic education event—not a political rally or partisan event. The goal is simply to create an opportunity for people to come together, listen to the words of the Constitution, learn a little more about the document itself, and think about what those words mean within the context of our communities today.
We really want this to feel like a community-created event, rather than something organized by just a small group of people. That’s why we’re reaching out as we’d love to have members from every Shoreline neighborhood represented in this event.
There are two primary ways we’re hoping people might participate:
The first is as a reader.
We’re looking for community members who would be interested in reading a portion of the Constitution aloud. You don't need to be a professional actor or public speaker. You don't need to have any particular political background. We’re looking for people who simply want to lend their voice to the project. We’ll divide the Constitution into manageable sections, so no one person has to read the entire document. Depending on the number of participants, your section might only take a few minutes.
We’re also especially interested in involving young people and students. We think there’s something really powerful about having different generations of our community literally share the document with one another.
We’re looking for community members who would be interested in reading a portion of the Constitution aloud. You don't need to be a professional actor or public speaker. You don't need to have any particular political background. We’re looking for people who simply want to lend their voice to the project. We’ll divide the Constitution into manageable sections, so no one person has to read the entire document. Depending on the number of participants, your section might only take a few minutes.
We’re also especially interested in involving young people and students. We think there’s something really powerful about having different generations of our community literally share the document with one another.
The second way to participate is through music.
We’re looking for local musicians who might be interested in providing live instrumental music or ambient accompaniment during portions of the reading. We’re imagining something that supports the performance without distracting from the words—music that helps create a sense of occasion and gives the reading an artistic dimension.
What we love about this idea is that the Constitution itself becomes the thing that connects all of these different voices. A student might read one section, a longtime community member might read another, a local elected official might read another, while a musician provides the soundtrack. The result is something that none of us could create individually.
Many voices. One Constitution. One community.
We also want to make sure that the event remains accessible and welcoming to people with very different perspectives and backgrounds. You don't have to agree on everything to participate. You don't have to come with a particular political viewpoint. The purpose is to create a shared civic and educational experience where we can encounter the document together.
If you’re interested in reading, let us know. If you’re a musician and would like to participate, we would love to hear from you. If you work with students, theater groups, music programs, or other community organizations, we’d love your help connecting us with people who might be interested.
We’re looking for local musicians who might be interested in providing live instrumental music or ambient accompaniment during portions of the reading. We’re imagining something that supports the performance without distracting from the words—music that helps create a sense of occasion and gives the reading an artistic dimension.
What we love about this idea is that the Constitution itself becomes the thing that connects all of these different voices. A student might read one section, a longtime community member might read another, a local elected official might read another, while a musician provides the soundtrack. The result is something that none of us could create individually.
Many voices. One Constitution. One community.
We also want to make sure that the event remains accessible and welcoming to people with very different perspectives and backgrounds. You don't have to agree on everything to participate. You don't have to come with a particular political viewpoint. The purpose is to create a shared civic and educational experience where we can encounter the document together.
If you’re interested in reading, let us know. If you’re a musician and would like to participate, we would love to hear from you. If you work with students, theater groups, music programs, or other community organizations, we’d love your help connecting us with people who might be interested.
If this sounds like something you'd like to be part of, please reach out to us via the link to add your name to our interest list.
Officially Fall: Pumpkins
Saturday, September 19, 2026
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| Photo by RJ Perna |
Display at Home Depot. It must be Fall.
The farmers markets are running through most of October. Shoreline is open Saturdays through the month. Lake Forest Park ends its Sunday run October 17 but moves inside for some special events.
Both markets are 10am to 2pm.
Robot at Fred Meyer
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| Photo by RJ Perna |
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| Photo by RJ Perna |
Time for everyone to start rereading the science fiction classics about the robots taking over the world.
Sound Transit Announces Publication of Everett Link Extension Draft EIS and Start of Public Comment Period
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| Planning begins for extension to Everett |
The public has through November 2, 2026 to review and comment on the Draft EIS as part of a 45-day public comment period.
Another exciting step forward for the expansion of regional light rail as Sound Transit and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) have published the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Everett Link Extension. The document's publication begins a 45-day public comment period that runs through Nov. 2.
“Release of the Draft EIS is an important milestone for Everett Link and for the future of Snohomish County. This project is about more than building light rail. It’s about connecting people to jobs, education, housing, and opportunity, while completing the regional spine that voters approved.
"We’re already seeing how light rail is shaping our region through the connections and opportunities created by Lynnwood Link, as well as the growth and investments happening around our transit system,” said Sound Transit Board Chair Dave Somers.“Everett Link builds on that momentum and brings us one step closer to delivering light rail to downtown Everett. There’s still important work ahead. I encourage residents, businesses, and community leaders across Snohomish County to review the Draft EIS, provide public comments, and make their voices heard. The decisions we make will shape how this project serves our communities for generations to come.”
First Annual Shoreline Chocolate Festival - tickets on sale now
Join the Shoreline Senior Center for a fun and delicious Saturday of CHOCOLATE! Taste your way through 7 local artisanal chocolate makers and support your local senior center.
Saturday October 24, 2026 from 11am to 3pm
Shoreline Senior Center
Each vendor will have samples and a wide variety of handcrafted chocolates for sale. When we say ‘chocolate’ we don’t mean your stock-standard chocolate bar – we mean Anise & Honey Fig Truffles, Bean-bar Espresso Dark Chocolates, layered truffles with passionfruit gel, brown butter rum bonbons, and much much more.
100% of ticket sales support ongoing programs and operations at the Shoreline Senior Center, and 100% of chocolate sales at the event go directly to the people who made the chocolates.
Support small local businesses! Support your senior center! EAT CHOCOLATE!
Participating Vendors: Cocoa Legato – Dolcetta Chocolates – Bon Chocolats – The Chocolate Man – Brugge Chocolates – Allelon Chocolate – Bellflower Chocolate Co.
Event Sponsors: Gentiva Hospice – Destination Shoreline – Seniors Helping Seniors – Minuteman Press – Front Door Creative
Jayapal: Big Tech and Surveillance AI
As a co-chair of the Monopoly Busters Caucus, I hosted a hearing on Big Tech’s race to monopolize the AI industry and find new ways to profit off the surveillance of Americans.
During this hearing, we heard incredibly powerful witness testimony from a mother whose son died following false advice from a ChatGPT model that was updated to be more addictive and manipulative, a Meta whistleblower sounding the alarm on the surveillance schemes targeting every user, a former Big Tech worker organizing against AI displacement and monitoring, and a former government expert pushing for big AI companies to be broken up and their executives held accountable for the dangerous AI they unleash.
Read more...
This was an informative and compelling hearing that exposed the horrors of what unchecked AI development, mass surveillance of our private lives, and dangerous models are doing to our kids, our jobs, our economy, and our future.
As this industry continues to grow, Congress must act urgently to rein in the AI industry and shut down their defective, rogue models. I am doing that work, and plan to release a bill with comprehensive solutions soon.
I did a deep dive on this hearing and all things AI on my podcast this week — you can watch HERE or listen wherever you get your podcasts.
Seattle-area older adults with chronic pain sought for a UW study evaluating mind-body treatments for pain management
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| Photo by Sasun Bughdaryan on Unsplash |
Chronic pain is often inadequately treated in older people. Despite the high prevalence and substantial burden of pain among older adults, important knowledge gaps remain, because this age group has been historically underrepresented in pain research.
“As we age, we have more aches and pains for all kinds of reasons, including arthritis, general wear and tear, and a decrease in our physical resilience to injury,” said Dr. Mark Jensen, professor of rehabilitation medicine at the UW School of Medicine.
“Pain is an inevitable part of life, but it hurts. It's not comfortable and it can restrict our functioning.”
Jensen is co-leading a study to learn how non-pharmacological pain treatments regulate and alter the nervous systems of older adults. Improved understanding could better match patients with treatments and increase treatment effectiveness.
Participants will be randomly assigned one of three treatments: mindfulness meditation, therapeutic hypnosis or listening to stories. They will undergo brain imaging to identify how the brain reacts to pain and who benefits most from these treatments.
Doctors and patients are eager to find non-opioid approaches for managing pain. Opioids can provide short-term relief, but regular use increases pain because they stop the brain's ability to generate its own pain-fighting chemicals. Opioids can also cause addiction and have dangerous side effects, especially for older adults.
“We can use non-pharmacological approaches like self-hypnosis, distraction and mindfulness meditation to give people pain relief, to allow them to function in their lives with less pain, improved sleep and more hope,” Jensen said.
“These treatments change how the brain is responding to the input the body provides so that the person feels more comfortable and in control.”
Jensen describes mindfulness meditation as focused, non-judgmental acceptance of one’s current experience.
“As a result, you end up reducing pain by not doing useless things like ruminating and worrying,” he said.
Self-hypnosis is focused attention, said Jensen: “In that state of focused attention, the brain is more open to suggestions. You can suggest good things, like your body can feel more comfortable, and the brain will respond. It's a natural process.
“I've talked with patients who learned hypnosis skills and 25 years later, they’re still using this approach to manage all kinds of things in their lives, not just their pain,” he said.
The third study arm, listening to a story, uses the power of distraction to lessen pain by asking participants to hear an interesting tale.
“We anticipate that everyone in the study will benefit, no matter what arm they are in,” Jensen said. “What we want to understand is how each of these treatments work, because we already have evidence that they work.”
Who can enroll in the REsearch on Focused Relaxation and Awareness for Managing Everyday (REFRAME) Pain Study?
- Adults 60 and over experiencing chronic pain (ongoing pain medication use is acceptable)
- Seattle-area residents
- Must have internet access and a computer or smartphone
What does study participation involve?
- Three in-person brain-imaging tests (non-invasive, radiation-free) at UW Medical Center – Montlake (about two hours each)
- Four virtual audio treatment sessions (30 minutes each)
- Survey completion and sensory testing
- Compensation up to $300 for study completion
For details: The researchers aim to enroll 375 participants in the REFRAME Pain Study. If you or an older adult you know think you are eligible, please email the study coordinator or visit the enrollment site for more information.
Flag Lowering - September 26, 2026 (Former Legislator Mike Cooper)
I am deeply saddened by the death of former Legislator Mike Cooper, and direct that Washington state and United States flags at all state agency facilities be lowered to half-staff in his memory on Saturday, September 26, 2026.
I have no objection to agencies lowering the flags at the close of business on Friday, September 25, 2026.
I have no objection to agencies lowering the flags at the close of business on Friday, September 25, 2026.
Flags should remain at half-staff until close of business or sunset on Saturday, September 26, 2026, or first thing Monday morning, September 28th.
Other government entities, individuals, and businesses are encouraged to join this recognition.
A celebration of life will take place on September 26, 2026, at the Olympia First Baptist Church at 2PM.
Please email FlagDirectives@gov.wa.gov if you have any questions about this flag directive.
Read more...
Other government entities, individuals, and businesses are encouraged to join this recognition.
A celebration of life will take place on September 26, 2026, at the Olympia First Baptist Church at 2PM.
Please email FlagDirectives@gov.wa.gov if you have any questions about this flag directive.
Travels with Charlie: Something New at Log Boom Park
Friday, September 18, 2026
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| Charlies enjoying the fresh aid |
Nice to head to Log Boom Park for some fresh air and sniffs. Let’s get going!
Charlie spotted Something New at Log Boom Park. These wonderful Memorial benches at the foot of the pier.
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| New memorial benches at the foot of the pier |
It will be nice to have these new benches to sit and enjoy the views and sounds and sniffs… (Nice little wetlands area behind them.)
Stop by and enjoy new Log Boom Park Benches when you get a chance. We will be there often, say Hello.
Cheers,
Gordon Snyder
Gordon Snyder
Calling All Young Musicians! Join Our Young Persons' Open Mic September 20, 2026
Calling All Young Musicians! Join Our Young Persons' Open Mic
Sunday, September 20, 2026 from 3–5pm
Third Place Commons
Lake Forest Park WA 98155
Do you love to sing or play an instrument? Whether you're a seasoned performer or stepping onto the stage for the very first time, the Young Persons' Open Mic is a fun, welcoming opportunity for musicians ages 17 and under to share their talents in front of a supportive community.
No auditions, advance registration, or rehearsals are required - just show up, sign your name on the performer list beginning at 2:30pm, and get ready to perform!
What can I perform?
The Open Mic is designed for solo and duo musical performances. Performers are welcome to sing, play an instrument, or both. Third Place Commons is a family-friendly venue, so all performances should be appropriate for audiences of all ages and should not include partisan or explicitly religious material.
What equipment is provided?
Just bring your instrument if you play one! We'll provide:
Do you love to sing or play an instrument? Whether you're a seasoned performer or stepping onto the stage for the very first time, the Young Persons' Open Mic is a fun, welcoming opportunity for musicians ages 17 and under to share their talents in front of a supportive community.
No auditions, advance registration, or rehearsals are required - just show up, sign your name on the performer list beginning at 2:30pm, and get ready to perform!
What can I perform?
The Open Mic is designed for solo and duo musical performances. Performers are welcome to sing, play an instrument, or both. Third Place Commons is a family-friendly venue, so all performances should be appropriate for audiences of all ages and should not include partisan or explicitly religious material.
What equipment is provided?
Just bring your instrument if you play one! We'll provide:
- Vocal and instrument microphones
- Instrument cables
- An upright piano
- A guitar amplifier
- Music stands
How long can I perform?
Performance time will depend on the number of participants. Each performer may perform up to three songs or 15 minutes, although performances may be limited to one or two songs if we have a full lineup.
Can I use a backing track?
Yes! You're welcome to perform with a pre-recorded backing track from your phone or other device. To ensure everything runs smoothly, please download your track ahead of time rather than streaming it over Wi-Fi.
Can an adult perform with me?
Absolutely! Adults are welcome to accompany young performers, provided the focus remains on the young musician.
Whether you're ready to perform or simply want to cheer on some incredible young talent, we hope you'll join us for an afternoon of music, encouragement, and community. We can't wait to see what our local young musicians have to share!HomeTechHacker: Can AI Really Make Life Easier?
By Marlon Buchanan
Five years ago, if someone had told me I'd be using artificial intelligence almost every day, I probably would have been skeptical.
But now, I find new uses for it all the time. AI has become a helpful assistant that saves me time, helps me think through problems, and lets me spend more time on the parts of life and work that I enjoy most.
One of the biggest ways AI has helped me is with my marathon training. It doesn't run the miles for me, but it can analyze my workout data, identify trends, and help me understand what my training is telling me. That gives me more confidence in my plan and helps me make informed adjustments along the way.
I also use AI when I'm writing. Whether I'm brainstorming article ideas, organizing an outline, or finding a better way to explain a complicated topic, it helps me get past the blank page more quickly. The ideas and opinions are still mine, but AI often helps me present them more clearly.
Another benefit has been comparing products and services. Instead of opening a dozen browser tabs and trying to keep all the information straight, I can ask an AI assistant to summarize the differences, explain the tradeoffs, and point out questions I should be asking before making a decision. I still verify important details, but it gives me a much better starting point.
It's how much more efficient I've become by using AI. Because I spend less time on repetitive tasks and organizing information, I have more time for my family, hobbies, and projects that matter to me.
That doesn't mean AI is perfect. It still makes mistakes, and I always verify important information before acting on it. I also avoid sharing sensitive personal, financial, or confidential information unless I'm using a service with privacy settings that I'm comfortable with.
If you've been curious about AI but haven't tried it yet, here's a simple challenge: the next time you're trying to decide between two products or services, ask an AI assistant to compare them. You might be surprised at how quickly it organizes the information and helps you think through the decision.
Many of these everyday uses inspired my newest book, Your Life, Solved: 42 Practical Ways AI Can Help You Save Time, Reduce Stress, and Get More Done. It shows how anyone can use today's AI tools to make life easier.
Technology doesn't have to be complicated to be useful.
I also use AI when I'm writing. Whether I'm brainstorming article ideas, organizing an outline, or finding a better way to explain a complicated topic, it helps me get past the blank page more quickly. The ideas and opinions are still mine, but AI often helps me present them more clearly.
Another benefit has been comparing products and services. Instead of opening a dozen browser tabs and trying to keep all the information straight, I can ask an AI assistant to summarize the differences, explain the tradeoffs, and point out questions I should be asking before making a decision. I still verify important details, but it gives me a much better starting point.
It's how much more efficient I've become by using AI. Because I spend less time on repetitive tasks and organizing information, I have more time for my family, hobbies, and projects that matter to me.
That doesn't mean AI is perfect. It still makes mistakes, and I always verify important information before acting on it. I also avoid sharing sensitive personal, financial, or confidential information unless I'm using a service with privacy settings that I'm comfortable with.
If you've been curious about AI but haven't tried it yet, here's a simple challenge: the next time you're trying to decide between two products or services, ask an AI assistant to compare them. You might be surprised at how quickly it organizes the information and helps you think through the decision.
Technology doesn't have to be complicated to be useful.
Sometimes the biggest improvements come from finding a tool that helps you spend less time on the little things so you can focus on what matters most.
Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, technology educator, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, where he helps people make technology simpler, safer, and more useful in everyday life.
If you have questions or comments about this article, you can contact Marlon through his website or X (Twitter).
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| HomeTechHacker Marlon Buchanan |
If you have questions or comments about this article, you can contact Marlon through his website or X (Twitter).
Shoreline Police test drones to help with 911 responses
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| Skydio Drone |
The purpose of this test is to see if a DFR program is a worthwhile investment.
The drones are activated when a dispatch comes in for a police response. The drones are often the first on the scene watching from above. The drone operator can then advise responding officers of the situation on the ground before they arrive. This can be especially important if Police are coming to a dangerous situation.
Drones can also respond to area checks for suspicious behavior prior to a patrol being dispatched. In some cases, the drone operators may determine that an in-person investigation isn’t necessary.
On the second day of tests, the drones flew 28 times and were the first on the scene 75% of the time. In 25% of those instances, they cleared the calls without the need for a patrol response.
The drones are not equipped with license plate readers and are not used for continual surveillance. They act as first responders and are used only to respond to calls that come through 911 dispatch.
Read more...
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