Local student named to Columbia College Summer 2026 Semester Dean's List
COLUMBIA, Mo. (September 3, 2026) - Columbia College recently announced its dean's list for the Summer 2026 Semester (May-August 2026). To be named to the dean's list, a student must have completed 12 undergraduate credit hours in a 16-week period and achieved a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0-point scale.
Students from the area who received this honor include:
Founded in 1851 in Columbia, Missouri, Columbia College has been helping students advance their lives through higher education for more than 175 years. As a private, nonprofit institution, the College takes pride in its small classes, experienced faculty and quality educational programs. With locations across the country, more than half of which are on military installations, students may enroll in Day, Evening or Online classes. Columbia College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and maintains a network of more than 100,000 alumni worldwide. For more information, visit ccis.edu.
Read more...
HOMETOWN; NAME
Seattle
Ian Pelky
SESPA to rally before school board meeting Tuesday September 8, 2026
They are strongly supported by SEA (Shoreline Education Association) - the teachers' union.
The two unions will hold a rally on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 5:30pm at the flagpole outside the Shoreline School District offices, 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline 98155. The school board meets at 6pm.
SESPA includes school support professionals such as library assistants.
LFP Rotary to hear from new Rotary District President Patricia Chapman September 9, 2026
Lake Forest ROTARY is celebrating our 40th anniversary in Rotary, on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 7:15am.
 |
| Patricia Chapman, Rotary District President |
Breakfast is included, if you would like to join us to hear our new Rotary District president, Patricia Chapman. She is a former Mrs. Washington. She is elegant and a wonderful speaker. You are invited to be inspired.
We meet at LFP PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 17440 Brookside Blvd NE, Lake Forest Park, WA 98155
It’s our birthday party!
we have cupcakes and a beautiful breakfast put on by the JUICEMAN from the LFP Town Center.
It’s our birthday party!
we have cupcakes and a beautiful breakfast put on by the JUICEMAN from the LFP Town Center.Please be our guest.
BrickCon LEGO® fan convention in Bellevue September 12-13, 2026
 |
| Photo courtesy BrickCon |
BrickCon, the longest-running LEGO® fan convention in the world, is hitting the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue Saturday and Sunday September 12-13, 2026
Proceeds from the show go toward supporting the BrickCon Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting science, technology, engineering, art, and math skills (STEAM) in children.
Join the fun!
Tickets
Tickets are available here There are staggered entry times Saturday, 9am to 4pm and Sunday, 10am to 4pm.
Read more...
 |
| Photo courtesy BrickCon |
Join the fun!
- Hundreds of models to see! Trains, cities, castles, spaceships, robots, art, and much, much more.
- Brickmaster Jamie, from LEGO® Masters will be there for a special interview Saturday at 1:00. Over his 20-year career, Jamie Berard has also worked as a LEGO® set designer and designer for The LEGO® Movie.
- The Grant Imahara Foundation will be teaching how to build and battle robots in the very popular Bot Box.
- The play area and mosaic wall will be open for anyone to build something fun.
- Vendors will have sets, minifigures, or other items for sale.
- The LEGO® Group will have a special interactive booth to show off the new LEGO® Pokémon™ sets. Kids can battle it out with Pikachu and other characters. Kids will also be able to build their own Premier Poké Ball and bring home other cool LEGO Pokémon merchandise, while supplies last.
- Special commemorative 25th BrickCon merchandise!
Tickets are available here There are staggered entry times Saturday, 9am to 4pm and Sunday, 10am to 4pm.
Governor Ferguson signs executive order to mitigate impacts of federal legislation gutting health care and food assistance
 |
| Gov Bob Ferguson announcing plans to preserve health care and food assistance for Washingtonians |
Governor Bob Ferguson signed an executive order to help mitigate the impacts in Washington state from H.R. 1, federal legislation gutting health care and food assistance nationwide.
President Donald Trump signed H.R. 1 more than a year ago, cutting more than $1.3 trillion in health care and food assistance nationwide. Many health care coverage impacts are coming in the next several months.
Washington is required to implement H.R. 1, and has already been forced to spend nearly $100 million to do so. If Washington state were to pay for everything H.R. 1 cuts, it would cost an estimated $3.2 billion per biennium.
Two major impacts are coming in the next several months:
- Starting Oct. 1, H.R. 1 drastically limits the Medicaid eligibility for lawfully present immigrants. Before the state took action, 14,000 lawful immigrants were set to lose their Apple Health coverage.
- Starting Jan. 1, more than 600,000 Washingtonians will be subject to work requirements for the first time in order to keep their Apple Health coverage. These individuals will also be required to reapply twice as frequently.
“The Big Bad Betrayal Bill is devastating to our health care system. But we are not powerless. I asked my team to find ways to blunt the impact of H.R. 1 on Washingtonians, and they delivered. Their work has preserved health care coverage for hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians. The work continues, and my executive order lays out our next steps.”
Governor Ferguson highlighted two major achievements:
Governor Ferguson highlighted two major achievements:
- Saving Apple Health coverage for 3,000 Washington immigrants, and
- Implementing an automated verification hub to help 400,000 Washingtonians keep their Apple Health coverage.
The governor encouraged everyone with Apple Health to make sure their information is current, and to look out for communications from Apple Health. He asked Washingtonians to help spread the word, and help loved ones verify their information.
The verification hub will bring together data that is already available to automatically confirm eligibility, so people don’t have to submit new paperwork every six months.
Washington state expects this will help 400,000 people keep their Apple Health.
More information here
Gun buy-back at Shoreline College September 12, 2026
The King County Sheriff's Office will conduct a gun buy-back at Shoreline College, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133 on Saturday September 12, 2026 from 8am to 12pm.
Signs will direct drivers to a drive-through station.
The purpose of the buy-back is to get the guns off the streets. Guns collected will be destroyed.
Participants will not have to provide identification and will remain anonymous. They will receive gift cards with the amount based on the type of firearm surrendered.
Deputies will be on the premises to supervise activities.
Read more...
Dramatic differences at Sears demolition 9-7-2026
David Carlos took these photos only six days after the previous batch but the site looks dramatically different.
Apparently the crew didn't work on Labor Day so he was able to get close-ups of the interior, including the escalators.
The escalators on the lower floor look pretty intact but the upper floor tells the story.
It helped that the external walls were gone.
--Diane Hettrick
So lucky to have beautiful Echo Lake in Shoreline
 |
| Wendi Valle's State Farm and other volunteers at Echo Lake |
By Ann Michel
Echo Lake Native Plant Area celebrated the end of summer with a wonderful weeding and mulching party.
Thanks to all our volunteers, and a special shout out to the hard working team from Wendi Valle’s State Farm. The Native Plant Zone is absolutely transformed with all the love it got this summer. Thanks to the Green Shoreline Partnership!"
Echo Lake is home to many native conifers and other natives. This year we even had a pair of nesting Green Heron, which was very special. Thanks to Nancy Morrison for this amazing photo, back before they left the nest.
And many thanks to our crew of King County Lake Stewards who go out on the lake 12 times a year to check the water quality and take samples for the lab.
 |
| Nesting herons at Echo Lake Photo by Nancy Morrison |
Echo Lake is home to many native conifers and other natives. This year we even had a pair of nesting Green Heron, which was very special. Thanks to Nancy Morrison for this amazing photo, back before they left the nest.
And many thanks to our crew of King County Lake Stewards who go out on the lake 12 times a year to check the water quality and take samples for the lab.
Huge thanks to Joe Hannan, Nancy Morrison, Manuèle Mayer, Stevie Kallos, Mark Enders, John Brannan, Marné Kristen, John Merriam and Kaye Walker.
Echo Lake will have a healthier future thanks to them and to the Surface Water Divisions at the City of Seattle and King County: thank you Stefan Grozev and Wafa Tafesh.
Bonsai for Beginners at Sky Nursery September 13, 2026
Always wanted to try your hand at this ancient, centering and meaningful craft?
Robert Cho, owner of Asia Pacific Gardening, comes to this in-depth hands-on workshop in the Sky greenhouse with more than *40 years* of Bonsai experience. 40 Years!
With a little history, the fundamental principles of successful bonsai, and expert in-person advice, you'll learn everything you need to know to plant, shape and care for your very own 5-6 year old juniper bonsai tree (outdoor) for decades to come!
Sky Nursery 18528 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133
September 13, 2026
- Morning Session, 11am - 1pm
- Afternoon Session, 3-5pm
Class Fee - $120 + tax
Register over the phone at 206-546-4851 or at the Sky Nursery registers. Starter tree, planting materials, and ceramic bonsai container included.
Imagine's 4th Annual Community Festival in Kenmore September 13, 2026
Sunday September 13, 2026 from 4-7pm
Northlake Lutheran Church 6620 NE 185th St. Kenmore
Read more...
Northlake Lutheran Church 6620 NE 185th St. Kenmore
There will be 3 different food options including a Pakistani BBQ, which is always a big hit as well as traditional Hot Dogs Chips etc.
There will be a variety of Games and an Inflatable Obstacle Course (Bouncy House) for the Kids, and Art projects.
Multiple Booths will provide information about Nonprofit Organizations in the Community.
Live Music Including
- "The Imagine All Stars" performing a variety of musical theatre songs performed by cast members of our previous broadway shows
- The Amazing Fingerpicking Stylings of Guitarist "Anton Betia"
- Classic R&B Blues with "Luther's Collective"
Community Sing at Third Place Commons - September 13, 2026
 |
| Community Sing at Third Place Commons |
Second Sunday Sings is back for another season!Join us Sunday, September 13, from 3–4 p.m. (new time!) for a free, casual community sing featuring familiar, non-religious music.
No experience or materials needed—you’ll be taught everything you need to know! All ages and voices are welcome.
Come make some music and enjoy an afternoon of community singing!
Third Place Commons is in the upper level of the main building at Town Center, intersection Bothell & Ballinger Way NE, Lake Forest Park.
Red Sky Gallery presents Artistic Virtuoso Liang Wei
 |
| Liang Wei at the show opening with two showcase paintings reflecting life in China. |
Red Sky Gallery is honored to host the extraordinary work of Liang Wei throughout August and September.
His captivating paintings transport us through treasured moments and places— from intimate family celebrations and the farms of Eastern Washington to the unforgettable energy of a beloved Bob Dylan concert. Each scene tells a story and leaves a lasting impression.
Liang Wei’s current show is a 38-year fascination with American landscapes and cross-cultural figures.
In Liang Wei’s beautiful book, "My 20 Year Romance with the American Landscape,"
Read more...
Liang Wei’s current show is a 38-year fascination with American landscapes and cross-cultural figures.
In Liang Wei’s beautiful book, "My 20 Year Romance with the American Landscape,"
Gunnar Nordstrom, prominent PNW art dealer and director of Gunnar Nordstrom Gallery, describes the artist perfectly:
Debbie Tomassi, owner of Red Sky Gallery, said,
“Not a Realist, not a Naturalist and not an Impressionist, Liang Wei is a ‘Moodist.’ The Impressionists wanted to capture the moment; Liang Wei captures a mood. Lingering and delicious, his paintings of long afternoon shadows or a dawn’s rising sun are remembrances of feelings long put away in our memories that are awoken again and again when viewing his paintings.”
Debbie Tomassi, owner of Red Sky Gallery, said,
“Liang Wei’s consciousness and emotion flow throughout the remarkable exhibition at Red Sky Gallery. His use of whimsical colors conveys excitement of the natural wildlife in the Grand Tetons.
"He is masterful in the ways he explores light and shadow. His paintings invite us to linger, to remember a special place, feeling, or moment we nearly forgot. I am thrilled he agreed to show his art at our gallery. He is a beautiful storyteller through paint and fortunate for this show.”
Liang Wei and Tomassi share a friendship over 30 years, and both showed at the Gunnar Nordstrom Gallery together in the early years.
We invite you to visit Red Sky Gallery during August and September and experience the artistry of Liang Wei in person. Catch the show at Red Sky Gallery, 17171 Bothell Way NE, Ste. A011, Lake Forest Park Town Center.
We invite you to visit Red Sky Gallery during August and September and experience the artistry of Liang Wei in person. Catch the show at Red Sky Gallery, 17171 Bothell Way NE, Ste. A011, Lake Forest Park Town Center.
Flags at Half-Staff September 11, 2026 Patriot Day
Gov. Bob Ferguson hereby directs that Washington State and United States flags at all state agency facilities be lowered to half-staff on Friday, September 11, 2026, for national Patriot Day, the annual memorial to the victims of the 2001 tragedy.
Flags should remain at half-staff until close of business or sunset on Friday, September 11, 2026.
Please notify all of your field offices and facilities around the state.
Other government entities, individuals, and businesses are encouraged to join this recognition.
Sip & Paint September 10, 2026
Thursday, September 10, 2026 from 7-9pm
Vault 177
1430 NW Richmond Beach Rd, Shoreline WA 98177
Join local artist Nancy Malek as she shows you how to work with alcohol ink to create a vibrant 6"x6" artwork! Explore & create a masterpiece to display in your home, OR consider submitting your final work for ShoreLake Arts' 6x6 NW Art Showcase hosted in October!
$65 per person. Sign up using the QR code or learn more here.
All supplies will be provided, as well as one complimentary glass of wine or draft beer of your choice - OR - enjoy our specialty cocktail made just for this event!
Tickets on sale now for Nile Nightmares
More than just a Haunted House, Nile Nightmares is a Haunted Experience!
Enjoy the Midway while you wait in our virtual queue, where you can grab a bite or a treat, play an escape game, or get your courage up in the Fear Garden!
We will send you a text when its your groups time to enter the Attraction.
All Admission tickets include a one time walk through the Haunted Attraction. (Average walk through time is 20 minutes) This is a No-Touch Haunted Experience, with live actors, and “state of the art special effects".
New for 2026 "The Abyss dark maze", and "The Secret Bar" (Secret Bar add on is only available on select nights) Use the drop down calendar to show tickets available for that specific day.
Real Woods, Real Fog, Real Actors! Book your Haunted Experience Now! Featuring Washington's only “Secret Bar”VIP Experience!
2026 SHOW DATES AND TIMES:
October 2nd,3rd,9th,10th,11th,16th,17th,18th,23rd,24th,25th,29th,30th,31st
- Fri/Sat 7pm-11pm
- Sundays 7pm-10pm
- Thursday 10/29 7pm to 10pm
- Halloween Night 7pm-11pm
Nile Nightmares is held on the grounds of the Nile Golf Course 6601 244th St SW, Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
AG Brown, coalition secure new court order blocking illegal USPS attack on mail-in voting
Attorney General Nick Brown and a coalition of 25 states have secured a preliminary injunction (PI) blocking illegal efforts by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) that would have disrupted vote-by-mail systems ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.
The block prevents implementation of the rule for the November 3 election while the coalition’s lawsuit challenging the rule proceeds. The administration is expected to appeal the order.
The order in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts blocks USPS from requiring states to obtain the federal government’s approval of new ballot and return-envelope designs, register for a new USPS portal for tracking voter information (which is not yet operational), input information for each of their state’s mail voters into the portal, and comply with other provisions. It blocks USPS from rejecting ballot mail USPS believes does not comply with the rule.
On March 31, President Trump issued an executive order directing the U.S. Postal Service to adopt new regulations that would prohibit USPS from transmitting mail ballots to voters who are not on a USPS-controlled list.
On August 26, USPS finalized a new rule implementing the President’s demands that require states to register every voter who is eligible to vote by mail with USPS and tasking USPS with compiling the registered voters into state-specific lists.
The order in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts blocks USPS from requiring states to obtain the federal government’s approval of new ballot and return-envelope designs, register for a new USPS portal for tracking voter information (which is not yet operational), input information for each of their state’s mail voters into the portal, and comply with other provisions. It blocks USPS from rejecting ballot mail USPS believes does not comply with the rule.
“As the court previously said, states’ compliance with this illegal order would be ‘practically impossible’ before the November elections given the unprecedented demands it would put on state and local elections officials,” Brown said. “The chaos that would cause is exactly what Trump wants. That’s why we continue to fight for a fair and properly administered election.”
On March 31, President Trump issued an executive order directing the U.S. Postal Service to adopt new regulations that would prohibit USPS from transmitting mail ballots to voters who are not on a USPS-controlled list.
On August 26, USPS finalized a new rule implementing the President’s demands that require states to register every voter who is eligible to vote by mail with USPS and tasking USPS with compiling the registered voters into state-specific lists.
The rule also establishes new design requirements for the mail-in ballot envelopes created by states, which states are required to meet and get approved by USPS. Under the rule, USPS will not deliver ballots to voters who do not appear on the USPS-generated lists and will not deliver ballots in envelopes that fail to comply with the rule’s new standards.
Brown swiftly co-led a coalition of 25 states in filing a lawsuit to block the unlawful rule. Two days after the rule was finalized, on August 28, the court granted the coalition’s request for a temporary restraining order, finding that compliance with the rule before the November elections was “practically impossible” and that it created a significant risk of disenfranchisement.
With the November general election near, and states sending ballots in the coming days and weeks, the coalition argued the rule inflicts significant, irreparable harm on states by imposing burdensome mail voting requirements that risk disenfranchising eligible voters. The coalition argues that USPS’s rule upends successful, longstanding vote-by-mail procedures and violates federal statutes and the Constitution, which makes clear that states have the primary authority to administer elections.
Brown was joined in filing this lawsuit, which he co-led with the attorneys general of California, Massachusetts, and Nevada, by the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaiʻi, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin, and the Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Brown swiftly co-led a coalition of 25 states in filing a lawsuit to block the unlawful rule. Two days after the rule was finalized, on August 28, the court granted the coalition’s request for a temporary restraining order, finding that compliance with the rule before the November elections was “practically impossible” and that it created a significant risk of disenfranchisement.
With the November general election near, and states sending ballots in the coming days and weeks, the coalition argued the rule inflicts significant, irreparable harm on states by imposing burdensome mail voting requirements that risk disenfranchising eligible voters. The coalition argues that USPS’s rule upends successful, longstanding vote-by-mail procedures and violates federal statutes and the Constitution, which makes clear that states have the primary authority to administer elections.
Brown was joined in filing this lawsuit, which he co-led with the attorneys general of California, Massachusetts, and Nevada, by the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaiʻi, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin, and the Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Scene on the Sound: The Walla Walla
Sunday, September 6, 2026
 |
| Photo by Steve Schneider |
The WALLA WALLA being towed to our Eagle Harbor Maintenance facility. Shipyard work is completed and the vessel will have sea trials probably next week in preparation for returning to service.
Cyclocross event at Shoreview Park - "It's all hard"
 |
| The Shoreview challenge was the first of four events. |
Story & Photos by David Carlos
On a sunny, pre-Autumn Saturday with temperatures between 65 and 70 degrees, bike riders were up for the challenge at the Northwest Grand Prix Shoreview.
 |
| All the riders chose to walk up the stairs |
The event was held from 9am to 4pm on Saturday September 5, 2026 at Shoreview Park, 17229 3rd Ave. NW in Shoreline. The course incorporated several areas of the park and included stairs, sand, grass and sloped terrain.
 |
| Obstacles |
Cyclocross riders complete multiple laps on a short course featuring a variety of surfaces and obstacles. Depending on the terrain, riders may need to dismount, carry their bicycles and run through certain sections.
 |
| The course featured steep hillsides and sharp turns |
I spoke with one rider as he watched the other competitors while drinking bottled water. When asked about the most challenging part of the course, he said, “You know, it’s all hard. I’m more of a fitness person, not the technical stuff.”
 |
| The ankle bracelet holds a timing chip |
When asked what he meant by the technical portions, he pointed toward a hairpin turn.
“This turn right here,” he said. “That’s hard. I saw some people get off and walk.”
Where did he find himself out of breath?
“Everywhere,” he replied. “See, there are also the stairs right here. Some people run them.”
When asked whether he planned to race again that day, his answer was brief: “No.”
 |
| The course was set up with different start time for each category of rider |
The event included divisions for beginners, juniors, masters, women, men, nonbinary riders, single-speed riders and elite competitors. No USA Cycling license was required. Junior races were free, while adult registration was $45, with an additional race available for $20.
 |
| None of the course was easy |
The Shoreview race was the first event in a four-race Northwest Grand Prix series organized by Lemon Peel Productions. The remaining races are scheduled for Squalicum on September 19, Lake Padden on October 3 and Steilacoom on October 10.
 |
| The right gear is important |
According to Lemon Peel Productions, the series combines elements of European cyclocross course design with the distinctive features of venues in the Seattle and Bellingham areas. The Northwest-based event production company specializes in cycling races and promotes inclusive events for competitors of all experience levels.
If I Were A Tree: Book Walk at Kruckeberg
Join us this September for a Book Walk at the Kruckeberg Botanic Garden, in partnership with Richmond Beach Library and the King County Library System!
The story starts at the base of the boardwalk in the lower garden, follow along with If I Were A Tree by Andrea Zimmerman and use your own senses to explore the woodland around you!
Read one page at a time along the boardwalk.
Murder, Mystery, and Miss Marple - Edmonds Driftwood Players Announces 68th Season Opener
Edmonds Driftwood Players is thrilled to announce their upcoming production of Agatha Christie’s A Murder is Announced to open their 68th Season. This adaptation of the classic Agatha Christie novel by Leslie Darbon will be running September 18-October 11, 2026, at the Wade James Theatre in downtown Edmonds.
A newspaper announcement sets the stage for murder: “A murder is announced and will take place on Friday, October the thirteenth, at Little Paddocks – at six-thirty p.m.” When the occupants of Miss Blacklock’s Victorian home gather to discover what they initially believe to be a joke, the evening takes a turn when an unexpected visitor is killed.
What follows is a classic Christie puzzle of mixed motives, concealed identities, a second death and unexpected revelations. As a determined inspector works to unravel the case, the mystery becomes increasingly complicated. Fortunately, the astute Miss Marple is on hand to help uncover the truth.
With signature Christie twists and turns, intricate plot, and colorful characters, A Murder is Announced promises suspense, intrigue, and theatrical fun for mystery lovers and longtime fans of Agatha Christie alike.
WHEN: September 18-October 11, 2026 – Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 2pm. An additional 2pm matinee performance has been added on Saturday, 10/3. (16 total performances).
WHERE: Wade James Theatre, 950 Main Street, Edmonds.
TICKETS: $31 General Adults (ages 19-59); $28 Youth/Senior/Military. Tickets available online here or by phone at 425-774-9600. Discounted tickets for groups of 10+ people are also available.
Content Information: this production contains some mild adult themes and is best suited for ages teen+.
Approximate Run Time: this production is anticipated to be 2 hours, plus a 15-minute intermission.
A MURDER IS ANNOUNCED is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf Samuel French.
We would like to thank our Season Sponsors Rick Steves’ Europe, Humana, Edmonds Village Senior Living, and Koenig Financial Group for their support and commitment to the creative arts in Edmonds.
Read more...
A MURDER IS ANNOUNCED is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf Samuel French.
We would like to thank our Season Sponsors Rick Steves’ Europe, Humana, Edmonds Village Senior Living, and Koenig Financial Group for their support and commitment to the creative arts in Edmonds.
Lakeshore Garden Club to hear from Susan Ryan September 8, 2026
 |
| Susan Ryan of Gardendigs |
Our speaker this month will be Susan Ryan of Gardendigs, Gardens & Botanical Design.
Susan will be speaking on "Floral Foraging Inspiration".
She has a unique outlook on how to view our gardens and use our shrubs and trees and perennials. It should be a colorful and inspirational presentation, and all are welcome.
See Lakeshore Garden Club for more information on the club.
See Lakeshore Garden Club for more information on the club.
Grief support group at Acacia begins September 9, 2026
Rather than concluding our relationship after the funeral, Acacia will continue to walk alongside you through grief support, education, healing, reflection and community connection.
Grief support group meets Wednesday September 9, 2026 from 6pm - 7:15pm at Acacia Funeral Home, 14951 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park WA 98155
While crisis resources are always important, we believe that long-term healing happens through
relationships, education, ritual, conversation and community.
Our events create a space for people to feel seen, supported, and less alone as they navigate life's inevitable losses.
Programs are open to the general public to help create meaningful relationships before our services are needed, and to offer resources for all - including those supporting someone going through grief, or for anyone interested.
Please give us a call for any questions! 206-362-5525.
Officially Fall - Spirit of Halloween in Ballinger Village
 |
| Photo by Lis Johnson |
Now I know it's fall. The first Spirit of Halloween store has popped up in the neighborhood.
I've never been in one but will have to check them out this year. They appear every September, in stores that have been sitting vacant. They sell Halloween costumes and goods and after the end of October, they disappear.
This one is in the old Rite Aid store in Ballinger Village, 20330 Ballinger Way NE, Shoreline 98155. Rite Aid closed in August 2025. (see previous article)
-Diane Hettrick
August 2026 Shoreline Market Overview
Shoreline Market Overview
Year to date, 293 homes have sold in Shoreline, continuing to track ahead of last year's cumulative pace. While volume has stabilized, several underlying metrics tell a more nuanced story.
Elevated mortgage rates, rising inflation, and higher gas prices continue to shape buyer behavior, and their effect is showing up more clearly in pricing and negotiation data than in raw transaction counts.
Pricing Trends
Shoreline's median sale price rose to $902,500 in August, up from $850,000 last month and 1.4% above August 2025's $890,000. Year to date, the median stands at $825,000, still trailing last year's overall pace but showing gradual improvement.
Shoreline homes averaged 31 days on market in August, an improvement from July's 39-day outlier and closer to the year-to-date average of 30 days. That said, August 2025's pace was 26 days, so homes are still taking 19% longer to sell than a year ago. The market has not returned to the urgency-driven conditions of last year, and sellers should plan accordingly.
The sold-to-list price ratio came in at 99.4% in August, below August 2025's 99.94% and the second consecutive month where the average Shoreline sale closed under asking price. Year to date, the ratio stands at 100.72%, compared to 102.09% through the same period in 2025.
August delivered a stabilizing sales count and a median price that edges above last year's figure, but those headline numbers need context. The median price gain and the per-square-foot drop are both being driven by the mix of larger homes that sold this month, not by a broad shift in market values.
Read more...
Elevated mortgage rates, rising inflation, and higher gas prices continue to shape buyer behavior, and their effect is showing up more clearly in pricing and negotiation data than in raw transaction counts.
Pricing Trends
Shoreline's median sale price rose to $902,500 in August, up from $850,000 last month and 1.4% above August 2025's $890,000. Year to date, the median stands at $825,000, still trailing last year's overall pace but showing gradual improvement.
However, both the median price and price per square foot need context this month. The average size of homes sold in August 2026 was 2,091 square feet, compared to 2,243 square feet in August 2025, and July's average was even larger at 2,357 square feet.
Larger homes typically sell at a lower price per square foot, so when bigger properties dominate a month's sales, the median price rises while price per square foot drops, which is exactly the pattern playing out here.
Price per square foot came in at $467, down from $508 last month and 8.8% below August 2025's $512, but that decline is partly a reflection of what sold rather than a true read on value direction.
The year-to-date comparison is more reliable: average home size in 2026 is 1,917 square feet versus 1,954 square feet in 2025, nearly identical, making the YTD price per square foot of $515 a cleaner apples-to-apples indicator. That figure is holding essentially in line with last year's pace, suggesting underlying values are more stable than the monthly swings imply.
Days on Market
Shoreline homes averaged 31 days on market in August, an improvement from July's 39-day outlier and closer to the year-to-date average of 30 days. That said, August 2025's pace was 26 days, so homes are still taking 19% longer to sell than a year ago. The market has not returned to the urgency-driven conditions of last year, and sellers should plan accordingly.
Negotiation Trends
The sold-to-list price ratio came in at 99.4% in August, below August 2025's 99.94% and the second consecutive month where the average Shoreline sale closed under asking price. Year to date, the ratio stands at 100.72%, compared to 102.09% through the same period in 2025.
While the YTD figure remains above 100%, the monthly trend is clear: buyers are consistently negotiating below list price in the summer months, and the gap versus last year is widening. Sellers who price optimistically are absorbing price reductions, while those who price accurately are closing closer to or above ask.
August Summary
August delivered a stabilizing sales count and a median price that edges above last year's figure, but those headline numbers need context. The median price gain and the per-square-foot drop are both being driven by the mix of larger homes that sold this month, not by a broad shift in market values.
The year-to-date per-square-foot comparison, where home sizes are nearly identical between years, is the most reliable value indicator right now, and that figure is holding steady with last year's pace. Days on market remain elevated compared to 2025, and the sold-to-list ratio has now come in below 100% for two straight months. The Shoreline market is transacting at a consistent pace, but buyers hold real leverage, and accurate pricing from day one remains the deciding factor in how quickly and at what price a home sells.
Investing in Local Students: Shoreline Rotary Scholarships Help Open Doors
September is Rotary’s Basic Education and Literacy Month, a time to recognize the power of education to create opportunity—and the role a community can play in helping students pursue their dreams.
For Shoreline Rotary, investing in education is an important part of Service Above Self. Each year, the club provides scholarships to local students who have worked hard in school, served their communities and are ready to take the next step in their education.
Meet Scholarship Recipient Hugh Hoff, one of this year's Shoreline Rotary's Scholarship recipients. A graduate of Shorewood High School, Hugh is now attending the University of Washington.
For Hugh, the value of the scholarship is not simply the dollars it contributes toward college. It also provides greater freedom to concentrate on the opportunities that higher education offers.
“To me, getting this scholarship has allowed me to pursue a higher education and follow my interests without having to worry as much about tuition and the financial side of things. This scholarship has helped present me with the opportunity to enjoy college and all of the things that come with it.”
Hugh also sees the award as an investment extending beyond an individual student.
“I am incredibly grateful to the Shoreline Rotary Club for investing in the education that supports the future of students in our community—so thank you!”
That idea—investing in students as an investment in the future of the community—gets to the heart of Shoreline Rotary's scholarship program.
The deadline for Shoreline Rotary's next scholarship cycle will be announced soon.
Know a student who should apply next year? Follow Shoreline Rotary on Facebook or on our website and share the scholarship announcement when the next application cycle opens.
S.C.O.T. scholarships awarded to two recent Shorecrest graduates
 |
| (L-R) SC counselors Jenny Breed and Wendy Friedman; scholarship recipients Camron Catt; Lyla Higgins; Ava Watson; benefactors Krist and Stephen Growdon; recipients Hermela Dagenchew, Lila Seda and Olive Ziliak |
As hundreds of Shorecrest High School alumni return to two- and four-year colleges this fall, two recent graduates start their new school year with up to $10,000 in local scholarships.
The Shorecrest College Opportunity Tribute (S.C.O.T.) scholarships for the Class of 2026 were awarded to Hermela Dagnachew (University of Southern California) and Lila Seda (Washington State University/Pullman).
This year marks the first time recipients since 2021 have met their previously anonymous benefactors: Stephen and Kristi Growdon.
The couple – with a strong commitment to higher education and the local community – has been selecting and awarding the S.C.O.T. awards to Shorecrest graduates based on students’ academic and extracurricular achievements; volunteerism, and financial need for six years.
Past recipients include: Oliver Lohrentz (2021 – now a University of Washington/Seattle graduate); Lyla Higgins (2022 – now a U.W./Seattle graduate); Samia Ahmed (2023 – U.W./Seattle); Ava Watson (2024 – U.W./Seattle); Olive Ziliak (2025 – U.W./Seattle) and Camron Catt (2025 - Central Washington University).
S.C.O.T. benefactors Stephen Growdon, a retired Shorecrest High School social studies teacher and cross-country coach, and his wife, Kristi, started the awards with $2,500 a year per recipient for up to four years as long as students maintained a 3.2 college GPA. The couple chose from among more than a dozen self-nominated applicants each year. They opted to remain anonymous until the last of Stephen Growdon’s past students graduated from high school.
The Shoreline Public Schools Foundation has served as the conduit for these awards. Starting with the Class of 2027, The Seattle Foundation will fulfill this role. Details for this year’s Shorecrest seniors interested in applying will be available through their high school counselors, and college and career center.
Read more...
Call for vendors: Outdoor Winter Market November 21, 2026
CALL FOR VENDORS: Outdoor Winter Market, November 21, 2026 from 10am-3pm in Ridgecrest!
ShoreLake Arts is accepting applications for vendors for the 2026 Outdoor Winter Market!
Letter to the Editor: Ballot initiatives I-001 and I-638 are not good for our children
I was deeply relieved to read that our city council passed a resolution opposing two harmful ballot initiatives, I-001 and I-638. It speaks volumes that the resolution passed unanimously — it’s clear to many Washingtonians that these measures are not good for our children.
As a physician, I’m outraged by I-638. This initiative targets trans girls, but will impact all girls. I-638 would require all girls who want to participate in school sports to medically verify their sex, defined as a physical “reproductive organ exam,” or costly genetic or hormone testing. This means many elementary, middle, and high school-aged girls could be forced to undergo invasive genital exams, just so they can play on a team.
I’m one among a hundred Washington medical professionals who’ve issued a statement opposing I-638 because it would be harmful for young girls. Major medical organizations, including the AAFP and the AAP, do not recommend genital exams for girls as a part of sports physicals.
Initiative 001 would force schools to hand over sensitive information about child abuse victims to their parental abusers. This put children at a greater risk of violence at home, and discourages students dealing with sexual abuse from seeking help at school. As a survivor of child sexual abuse, I would not have felt safe speaking to school counselors if I-001 was in place when I was young. Our students deserve safe spaces to get support.
These two initiatives will cause harm, are based in harmful far-right ideology, and do not have a place in WA state law. Voters can join me and Shoreline City Council by rejecting both measures this November.
Caitlin Blau, DO,
Shoreline
Read more...
Briarcrest Neighbors meet September 8, 2026 in person and online
It will be in person at the North City Water District meeting chamber, 1519 NE 177th St, or online here.
We will recap the Summer Picnic (woo!), discuss the Library of Things project, and have a return visit from the City traffic folks. Please write to briarcrestneighbors@gmail.com with any questions.
ShoreLake Arts September events
Hang out with ShoreLake Arts this month! We have several fun events coming up in September.
- 9/3 Arts in the Garden @ Kruckeberg Botanic Garden
- 9/10 Sip & Paint (21+) @ Vault 177 / Spin Alley Bowling Center
- 9/14 55+ Art Class: Drawing Flora, led by McKy Karvounis @ Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center
- 9/24 Ridgecrest Art Walk @ ShoreLake Arts Gallery along NE 165th
Information and signups for these events & more can be found on our website events calendar.
Hope to see you soon!
Read more...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
