Photo: Christmas dragon

Photo by Steven H. Robinson

It really isn't Christmas without a dragon, is it?

This guy is in the yard on the northeast corner of NE 155th and 5th NE.

He's particularly delightful at night. He lights up, his belly glows with red fire, and his majestic wings slowly flap back and forth.

His predecessor, the Halloween dragon, was kidnapped, so help keep an eye on this one to make sure he stays put for everyone to enjoy.

DKH

Read more...

Shoreline Fire toy drive goes digital

Photo courtesy Shoreline Fire

Shoreline firefighters were out at Fred Meyer on Saturday, asking shoppers to contribute toys to the annual toy drive - held in partnership with the Shoreline PTA Council.

However, knowing that they were not reaching everyone with their in-person efforts, they set up an online Wishlist. 

Donors can select any of the items on the Amazon Wishlist to contribute it to the toy drive.

Help support our Toy Drive and help make sure every kid gets a toy this Christmas!!

You can click on the link and shop via Amazon Wishlist!

Another option? Feel free to swing by any of the stations in Shoreline to drop off your donation until December 13th.

Read more...

SAGA school bazaar featured contacts to the German-speaking community

The SAGA School held their annual Winter Bazaar on St. Nicholas Day, Friday, December 6, 2019. 

SAGA (Seattle Area German American School) offers youth and adult education programs throughout the year.

Its Winter Bazaar featured traditional handicrafts, art, food, literature, clothing and accessories of the season, along with contacts to the German-speaking community.

Christmas caroling and musical performances enhanced the holiday spirit.

The bazaar was a benefit for SAGA School, which is located at 11010 Greenwood Ave N. Seattle.

For information about the school contact 206-442-2023 or info@sagaschool.org

Read more...

Financial aid for college - completing the FAFSA

High school student with FAFSA forms.
Photo courtesy Partnership for Learning

Completing the FAFSA (the federal financial aid application) is a key step toward earning a credential after high school. 

Doing so helps students understand the types and amount of financial aid available to them. 

However, only 54% of Washington state seniors completed the FAFSA in 2017 — among the lowest completion rates in all 50 states, according to the Washington Student Achievement Council. 

In this article from Partnership for Learning published in The Seattle Times, read more about the importance of the FAFSA (and the WASFA — the Washington Application for State Financial Aid), how it opens the door to credentials after high school, and what schools are doing to support students to complete the form.

Read the article

Read more...

Elf hats, kids, and ornaments at library craft party Saturday

Brittany Gallaher and her daughters, Maisy on left, baby Laney,
and Hartley were busy selecting just the right pieces to add to a project.

Photos and text by Wayne Pridemore

The Christmas craft party on Saturday, December 7, 2019 at the Richmond Beach Library started at 10am and lasted until noon.

Drumhiller siblings. Blakely shows off his ornament
while his sister Brody works with ribbon.

There was a big turn out of kids and parents to make ornaments, elf hats, and other holiday decorations.

Several tables were set up with many different materials at each table for unique holiday craft pieces.

Ashyr Jain, age 4, takes a little break before
moving on to another project.

Hot chocolate and goodies were available to keep the youngsters' strength level high. Good times for good memories.

Read more...

The Christmas Ship is coming to RB Saltwater Park on Wednesday

Legal bonfire on the beach for Christmas Ship celebration
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

On Wednesday, December 11, 2019 you won’t want to miss the CHRISTMAS SHIP CELEBRATION with a raging bonfire, holiday music, and cookies.

This free, family friendly event is a Pacific Northwest tradition, taking place at the Richmond Beach Saltwater Park, 2021 NW 90th St.

The evening begins at 7:30pm with music by the Seattle Shores Sweet Adelines Women's Chorus.

Photo by Pam Barrett

The Christmas Ship, followed by a fleet of Argosy vessels, private yachts, sailboats and other small crafts decked out with holiday lights, will arrive off the Saltwater Park at 8:20pm for a 20-minute performance by the Center for Spiritual Living Choir.

Gather on the far side of the bridge to have the best view of this special night.

This event is jointly sponsored by the City of Shoreline and Richmond Beach Community Association.

Read more...

Santa arrives in style to greet the children and light the North City Christmas tree

Photo by Carl Dinse

Santa came in with his usual style in a beautifully bedecked and lighted reindeer topped sleigh to a gathering place under the Les Schwab covered area on 15th NE in the North City business district.

Musicians played, elves assisted, the crowd sang, and small children confided their Christmas wishes.

Photo by Carl Dinse

After an appropriate build-up, Santa waved his hand (over the light switch) and the tree now glows blue and green in the night time atop the North City water tower.

Read more...

Cartoon by Whitney Potter: a bunch of ....

Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter can be found under Features 

in the first column of the front page of the Shoreline Area News

Read more...

And how was your drive Friday night?

There was a collision where I-405 and 236th St SW join I-5.

The right lane was blocked and traffic was backed up for miles.

This traffic camera captured this shot at NE 205th around 7pm.

Read more...

Photos with Santa for Fido and friends

Fido can get his photo with Santa at Mud Bay in Lynnwood

Fido can get his photo taken with Santa Norm - and perhaps woof gently into Santa's ear about that nice red ball he'd like to have for Christmas.

This Saturday, hosted by Mud Bay in Lynnwood, a $15 suggested donation will get you a digital photo of your adorable furry friend with Santa!

All donations benefit Whisker City in Shoreline!

Saturday, December 7, 2019 from 10am - 3pm at Mud Bay (Lynnwood), 2800 196th St SW, Lynnwood, WA 98036

Read more...

I-976: Some local transportation projects are safe - some are in jeopardy

RapidRide E Line service could be affected
depending upon court ruling
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

By Jamie Holter

Voters statewide passed Tim Eyman’s I-976 $30 car tabs initiative by a wide margin in November. Currently, the initiative is on hold and making its way to the State Supreme Court for a decision on its Constitutionality. If it holds, it presents a mixed bag of challenges for the City of Shoreline and residents who walk, drive, or take transit.

Here’s a look at the projects and programs in jeopardy and others that appear to be safe.

Money to repair minor pavement damage is
in jeopardy
Photo by Diane Hettrick

Roads

In 2009, the Shoreline council passed a $20 vehicle license fee (car tabs) for road preservation in Shoreline. 

The fee goes toward repairing pavement early before it gets too bad and needs to be completely replaced - which is more expensive. This is in jeopardy.

Sidewalks

In 2018, voters approved a 0.20% sales tax earmarked for new sidewalks. That is NOT a vehicle license fee so it does not appear to be in jeopardy.

Money for sidewalk repair is in jeopardy
Photo by Diane Hettrick

However, the council did pass $20 vehicle license fee for sidewalk repair and maintenance. This is also in jeopardy.

The combined vehicle license fees account for $1.66 million annually for the city. Losing even a portion of this will require the council to look at the entire budget, reprioritize and reallocate based on discussions and recommendations from council, staff and input from the community.

Buses

Buses that head south into Seattle may be affected. In 2014, Seattle voters approved an increase in fees to cover an increase in transit service. Our transit is their transit once it hits the Seattle city limits. So the Rapid Ride E and other buses that stop in Shoreline AND Seattle could be affected IF the court rules that I-976 can remove transit fees approved by city voters for city transportation programs and projects.

The bottom line is that this initiative will affect transit revenue stream and if it is lost, it will be up to state leaders and policymakers how to generate new funds.

Other projects

The City of Shoreline partners with WSDOT on two key major construction projects along the 145th Street / SR 523 corridor.

Conceptual drawing only - not the final design

The first is the I-5/145th Interchange project. It would radically change the area by adding two roundabouts.

This is a companion project to our new 145th Link Light Rail Station.

This redesigned interchange would make it easier to get to and from the new light rail stop, improve traffic flow in that entire area, and make it safer. 

Shoreline is a financial partner with $12.5 million invested, but this is an expensive, wide ranging project so it would be impossible for Shoreline to go it alone.

Concept drawing for 148th pedestrian bridge

148th Street Pedestrian Bridge

This bridge will go over I-5 and connect residents from the northwest corner of the area (northwest of I-5/145th Street) to the new Light Rail Station.

The link is designed to encourage people to walk or bike to transit and connect to the network of bike trails on both sides of I-5.

Currently the city is in the design phase with construction scheduled for 2022 and completion in 2023. 

The $17 million project has state, county and federal funds. And WSDOT is a partner. WSDOT generally prioritizes safety projects first then projects that will benefit the greatest number of commuters second and other projects last. It’s not clear whether this would be in two categories – safety for pedestrians and ease for future light rail users. This is definitely a wait-and-see project. 

The Lynnwood Link stations appear to be safe

Sound Transit Projects
145th and 185th Link Light Rail Stations

These projects appear to be safe from I-976 cuts. The bonds to build them were issued far enough in advance to be out of reach of this initiative. However, it is always possible that Sound Transit will be forced to retire these bonds early and then the Sound Transit Board will determine how to manage that.

Another project is 145th from I-5 to Lake City Way, also a companion project to Light Light Rail at 145th. This creates Sound Transit Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) which is like Metro’s Rapid Ride Program. These east-west corridor connections are key to building out a better transportation system by creating feeders to the north/south link light rail system. 

Bus Rapid Transit - to connect riders from Woodinville
through Kenmore and Lake Forest Park to the
145th station - in jeopardy

This may actually be in jeopardy because bonded funds are NOT already allocated. IF I-976 goes forward and it interpreted in the simplest way, it means: if it’s not currently funded, you can’t do it. At least not now and not with vehicle tab fees. So no Bus Rapid transit.. as yet.

Lake Forest Park Transit Center + Park and Ride Garage

This is another corridor connection project. It brings ST Bus Rapid Transit via SR 522 and 145th Street. It also potentially builds a 300-stall parking structure at Town Center. This project is in jeopardy because it is not currently under construction.

What’s next

On Wednesday, the State Supreme Court decided to let the injunction stand which means car tabs fees remain in place while the court decides whether to hold a full hearing on the constitutionality of the measure or sends it back to the lower court.

Given all this, the facts remain that agencies and organizations have a long list of projects and a lot of decisions to make if I-976 goes forward. It will be up to the legislature, city leaders and the ST board to decide which projects, which bus routes, and which light rail projects are built and which ones are cut, trimmed or delayed.

The Federal Highway Trust Fund that built major infrastructure projects like I-90 and I-5 back in the day is running out of money and will be gone by 2022 unless Congress takes steps to fund it. There is a bill to reauthorize $287 billion by fall 2020.

Sound Transit

According to a spokesperson for Sound Transit,

Following litigation on I-976, if Sound Transit were required to retire existing bonds to enable elimination of the MVET (Motor Vehicle Excise Tax) absorbing the loss of revenues would require the Sound Transit Board to implement delays and/or cuts affecting projects for which the agency has not already issued construction contracts. 

Board direction would determine the degree and distribution of delays and/or cuts on specific projects."

Read more...

Holiday Events in Richmond Beach on Saturday

There will be trees inside and out at the
fire district training station 

By Teresa Pape
RBCA Executive Director

The Holiday season is upon us and the community spirit is flowing through the streets of Richmond Beach. The Richmond Beach Community Association (RBCA) has a variety of free, family friendly events to get you into the holiday spirit.

The season kicks off with a CHILDREN’S HOLIDAY CRAFT PARTY. Join us for this free family event for all ages at its new earlier time. 

On Saturday, December 7th from 10:00am to noon the RBCA and Richmond Beach Library are hosting a craft party for children to create holiday decorations. Come take your picture with “Elfie” the elf who likes selfies. One special craft activity is making cards for Richmond Beach Rehab residents that will be handed out during the caroling event later in the day. The Holiday Craft Party will be in the meeting room of the Richmond Beach Library, 19601 21st Avenue NW.

Also on Saturday, December 7 at 4:45pm, RBCA will light up the night when Santa counts us down to the lighting of the community tree at the annual TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY at the Fire Safety Center located at the intersection of Richmond Beach Road and 20th Avenue NW (next to Streetzeria). Parking is limited to neighborhood streets, so please walk or carpool if possible. Enjoy refreshments and seasonal music while waiting for Santa to arrive on his fire engine.

After the Tree Lighting festivities, join your neighbors at the Richmond Beach Rehab, 19235 15th Avenue NW, at 5:30pm to spread holiday cheer to the residents with the gift of song as we join our neighbors for some COMMUNITY CAROLING. 

Every year we hear how much the residents enjoy the event – your visit has a much larger impact than the hour of your time the activity involves. Please join us, even if you can’t carry a tune! Song books will be provided, and residents will receive holiday cards our community created for them.

Read more...

Start Saturday with pancakes

Mrs. Wigglesworth will tell a story or two...

Pinky's Passion for Pancakes with Santa, Saturday, December 7, 2019 from 10am - 12:30pm at Easy Monkey Event Center, 17537 15th Ave NE, Shoreline

Pancakes will continually be served - 10:15am until 12:15pm, all you can eat. 

Admission price, $25 for Adults and teens age 13 and over. Admission price for children ages 12 and under - $10.

Tickets here

Music provided by members of the Seattle Ukulele community. Special Guest Mrs. Wigglesworth will perform. Photos with Santa from 10am - 12 noon.

All proceeds go to Pinky's Passion for a Parkinson's Cure.

Schedule of events:

10:15 AM Ukelele players perform
10:15 AM - 12:15 PM Santa visits
10:15 AM - 12:30 PM Breakfast served
11:15 AM Mrs. Wigglesworth will tell a story or two

Read more...

Sense and Sensibility continues on Saturday and Sunday - then next weekend at Shoreline Community College

Sense and Sensibility opened Friday night, December 6, 2019 at Shoreline Community College. There are performances on Saturday at 7:30pm and Sunday at 3pm.

Next weekend, Friday and Saturday, December 13 and 14, and Sunday at 3pm.

TICKETS - general admission $18; Seniors and college employees $16; Students and children $8.

Shoreline Community College Theatre, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline 98133.

Read more...

Basketball: Shorecrest girls claw their way to a 2-0 victory over Juanita

Coaching at half-time
Photo by Justin VanNess

The Shorecrest girls varsity basketball team (2-0) overcame a halftime deficit to defeat the Juanita Rebels 47-39 on Wednesday night, December 4, 2019.

The game was scrappy, and back-and-forth game through the first half, with Juanita leading 26-25 at the first half. It remained tight in the third, until Shorecrest pulled ahead for good, winning the 4th quarter, 10-6.

For the second night in a row, Shorecrest spread the scoring, with three players in double digits. Senior Sydney VanNess and Junior Kiana Lino both had double-doubles, with 10 points/11 rebounds, and 13 points/13 rebounds respectively.

VanNess got the crowd on its feet with a blocked shot on the baseline to start the game, and the intensity continued from there with the first quarter ending 14-10.

Juanita took the lead in the 2nd quarter until a steal and layup from senior Taylor Svenson kept them in the game. Shorecrest’s strong rebounds and tight defense kept them in the lead.

The Scots struggled in the 3rd quarter, but with the game tied at 30, senior Amanda Lee hit her first of three three-pointers in the quarter to give them the lead they would never give up. Lee’s offense was matched with Senior Maura “Mo” Weaver’s amazing defense, including three steals.

Earlier in the evening, the Shorecrest JV team (2-0) won 42-28, and the C team (2-0) won 44-17.

Shorecrest travels to Redmond at Redmond High School on Monday, December 9th. 7:15pm start.

--Ela Nordfers

Read more...

Free performances: Piano Juries at SCC Friday afternoon

Piano Juries, Friday, December 6, 2019, 2:30pm, Shoreline Community College, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline 98133, Music Building 800, Room 818. Free

Please join us for this formal performance event featuring our talented music students who are currently enrolled in private instruction on the piano. Students will perform a solo piece for a jury comprised of piano faculty as part of their final exam.

Everyone is welcome to attend this free performance.

Read more...

Get Jazzed - Friday 12:30pm showcase - free

Get Jazzed: An Ensemble Showcase, Friday, December 6, 2019, 12:30pm, at Shoreline Community College, 16101 Greenwood Avenue North, Shoreline, WA 98133, Music Building 800, Room 818, Free.

Join us for an afternoon of ensemble performances in the Music Department.

Get Jazzed is a showcase featuring four different ensembles: Jazz Repertoire, Jazz Improv, Jazz Ensemble, and Vocal Jazz Ensemble. Everyone is welcome to attend this free event.

Background Info:

Jazz Ensemble is an 18-20 piece traditional big band comprised of SCC's more advanced jazz players and is open to all students through audition. While focused on traditional big band arrangements from Basie, Kenton and Ellington the ensemble also performs more modern arrangements including Funk, Latin and Fusion styles. This group performs at least two major concerts a year and tours in the spring quarter. Jazz Ensemble has participated in the Las Vegas Invitational Jazz Festival and they earned the 2nd place award from the Reno Jazz Festival in 2016. In 2019, the group will perform in New Orleans. Directed by Jeff Kashiwa.

Vocal Jazz Ensemble: A beginning look at jazz concepts, style, production, technique, and more. Between 8 and 16 voices, one-on-a-mic, with rhythm section, students work on various styles and grooves such as swing, Latin, funk, and ballads. Students explore improvisation in a friendly, low stress environment and discuss jazz harmonies, chord function, and vocal color. Directed by Evan Norberg.

Jazz Repertoire students learn jazz vocabulary and improvisation techniques while performing classic jazz standards. The range of instruments varies with the students who enroll, and may include a few vocalists too. The group meets weekly in preparation to perform in the Small Ensemble Recital near the end of the quarter and at other events on campus or in the community. Directed by Steve Kim.

Jazz Improv is an ensemble class with the band typically comprised of students playing guitar, bass, drum, keys/piano and various horns. Some quarters we will joined by a vocalists as well. What is Jazz Improvisation? Improv is a key aspect of jazz. Basically, improvisation is composing on the spot, in which a singer or instrumentalist invents solo melodies and lines over top of a chord progression played by rhythm section instruments (piano, electric guitar, double bass, etc.) and also accompanied by drum kit. The intended outcome is individual expression, emphatic musical interaction, and creative response to shifting contents. Directed by Steve Kim.

Read more...

Shoreline Recreation Guide for Jan - Mar 2020

Recreation Guide

Shoreline Parks and Recreation

Winter Programs Guide and News 

Start out the New Year Right... 

Check our winter after school activities and events! 

We are offering New Classes and Events for Winter - Register Soon

Registration Starts at 8:00am

December 17th for Shoreline Residents

December 20th for Non- Residents

Apply for a Scholarship

Solicitar Una Beca

Donate To Scholarship Fund

Check Out The 2020 Winter Recreation Guide

Please see the attached: Video for hints on how to use our registration system.

Read more...

Frank Workman on Sports: How soon is too soon?

Photo courtesy US Youth Soccer

By Frank Workman

Down here in the San Diego area, I spent my Saturday mornings this fall watching my granddaughter play soccer for a team with the delightful name Glitter Sparkles. By my count, they played .500 ball.

When their season ended, the league’s coaches were asked to nominate their two best players from their own teams to be included in an all-star game that was played last weekend. My granddaughter was chosen to play in it.

Right before the games started, an impromptu meeting was held for the parents/guardians to hear of that night’s format. But before we were told that there were four teams, and that each team would play two 30-minute games, we heard from the event’s organizer, the league’s Director, who, we learned, is also the varsity soccer coach for the local high school the league feeds into.

What came next was part genius, part demonic.

First he congratulated us on the girls’ success in being recognized as all-stars.

Then he let it be known that in two weeks he would be starting a winter soccer camp for those kids whose parents wanted to see their skills rise to ‘the next level’ (for a fee, no doubt).

Turned out this entire ‘all-star’ event was a thinly disguised commercial to recruit kids to join the ranks of year-around Select soccer, so they can begin to hone their skills for when they’re able to play for his high school team.

The All Stars soccer team
Photo by Frank Workman

And by the way……my granddaughter is four years old.

Maybe this is how local greats Michelle Akers (Shorecrest) and Lori Henry (Shorewood) started on their paths to winning the Women’s World Cup for USA, but four years old seems way too young to be emphasizing one sport over the vast cornucopia of other games a child can try out.

I’m a big advocate of kids playing sports.

Sports has been called ‘life’s non-traditional classroom’.

A whole lot of good comes from it.

Lasting memories are created, lifelong friends are made (for both the players and their parents), and many valuable lessons are learned by playing.

Kids learn teamwork, unselfishness, and dedication. They compete with, and against, people who have different traits, qualities, and values than they have. They learn how to win and lose with grace, dignity, and humility. They learn to push their physical limits beyond what they imagined possible. In the process they acquire self-esteem and gain confidence in themselves. There are almost as many benefits to be had as there are people who derive them.

By all means, let your kids play sports. That’s ‘sports’, plural. Expose them to a variety of games, see which ones they enjoy and/or have an aptitude for.

It’s their life, not yours, and they should have a say in the matter of which sport they’re going to settle down and specialize in.

And that means they need to be old enough to take ownership of whatever decision it is they make.

Maybe wait until they’re at least in kindergarten.

Read more...

Tickets on sale now for the Shorecrest / Kellogg Big Band Swing Dance

Saturday, January 18, 2020 - the Shorecrest / Kellogg Big Band Swing Dance

Get your Toes a tappin’! 

The evening starts with Swing Dance Lessons with Jonathan Keith from 6:30 to 7:30pm. 

Then dance the night away from 7:30 to 10pm.

Amazing Jazz Standards, including Glen Miller, Count Basie and more. Featuring the Shorecrest High School Jazz and Stage Bands and the Kellogg Middle School Jazz Band -- an amazing group of talented kids. You won’t believe the stellar performance these groups turn out.

Refreshments will be available. Ticket prices: $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Students $6 w/ASB, $8 without. $6 extra for the dance lesson. Tickets can be purchased online through Brown Paper Tickets

Funds raised benefit The Shorecrest High School Jazz Band program. Held in the Shorecrest High School Commons, 15343 25th Ave NE, Shoreline.

Read more...

LFP Tree Board meeting Tuesday

LFP Tree Board meets Tuesday

The Lake Forest Park Tree Board will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, December 10, 2019 from 7 - 9pm in the City Hall EOC Room, 17425 Ballinger Way NE, Lake Forest Park. 

This meeting is free and open to the public.

They plan to approve the 2020 Work Plan and finalize the Tree Code Amendments

On the agenda:

• review their Proposed Code Changes
• synopsis of Tree Intern’s studies and Tree Canopy Report
• letter of support for increased Arborist Hours
• Preparation for 2020 Tree Inventory

Email: Lauren Hoerr, Assistant Planner

Read more...

Jobs: Real estate professional at WSDOT

Property and Acquisition Specialist 3 In-Training (Multiple Positions)

Closing Date/Time: Continuous - the first resume review will be conducted on December 19, 2019

WSDOT is seeking dedicated real estate professionals to join the successful Property Acquisition/Relocation team at our Shoreline office in north Seattle.

The Property and Acquisition Specialist 2 or 3 will assist in negotiating acquisitions needed for highway construction from commercial, residential, agricultural, and industrial parcels. The PAS 2 or 3 acts as the lead agency representative to property owners and the public, coordinating the flow of information and activities between owners and staff from other disciplines for each assignment. Property acquisition and relocation of displacees are among the final activities to be completed before a project can be advertised, therefore delays can significantly impact the project schedule. As the agency's public representative, this role will support the WSDOT mission by developing relationships and providing timely information to stakeholders. We are looking for someone who has an extensive background in real estate with an emphasis in eminent domain acquisition.

This position is open until filled. The first resume review will be conducted on December 19, 2019.

To view the entire posting and apply, please visit: Property and Acquisition Specialist 3 (In-Training)

Read more...

Second session: Photos with Black Santa in Shoreline on Saturday Dec 7

Photos with Black Santa in Shoreline on Saturday Dec 7, 3:00pm-6:00pm

Dale Turner Family YMCA, 19290 Aurora Ave N

Free event - enjoy holiday cheer, crafts, treats, and photos with Black Santa! 
Photos by AshleyKay Photography (suggested photo donation $5-10).

Donations will be collected for Hopelink: new, unopened, unwrapped toys and games; new, unwrapped kids clothing; canned and dry pet food; baby items: size 3-6 diapers, wipes, formula; hygiene Items: toothpaste/toothbrushes, shampoo, soap, deodorant, razors, lotion, combs, brushes;  paper Items: toilet paper, paper towels, foil, zip-lock bags; and household and cleaning items: dish or dishwasher soap, laundry soap. 

Contact blacklivesmattershoreline@gmail.com with any questions.

Read more...

Not all fats are created equal - free lecture Friday

Christy Goff, RD will offer a free
session Friday at the Senior Center

Join Christy Goeff, RD as she discusses the ‘good and bad’ fats we encounter in our daily diets. Friday, December 6, 2019 from 1:30pm – 2:30pm at the Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Senior Center, southernmost building on the Shoreline Center campus, 18560 1st Ave NE, Multipurpose Room.

Christy is a Registered Dietitian at Pacific Medical Center who provides workshops regularly at the Senior Center, often including cooking sessions. She completed a dietetic internship at Bastyr University.

She encourages questions during her presentations and has specialized in Diabetes Type I and II.

This is a great time to join us as we enter the holiday season. The session is free and membership is not required.

Read more...

Live and local Saturday December 7, 2019

There's a lot of live and local music to choose from each weekend. Most venues have food, some have dancing. Most have a cover charge and require reservations.

All have great local bands and entertainment!

This Saturday, December 7, 2019 here's what's happening:

Photo courtesy Sky Nursery
STRUM

SKY NURSERY

STRUM - Seattle's Totally Relaxed Ukelele Musicians - free - 2 - 3pm

Sky Nursery 18528 Aurora Ave. N

Enjoy live holiday and Hawaiian music!

Sky brings in musicians for special occasions and STRUM is a regular.

DARRELL'S TAVERN

Duvcon, Steel Tigers of Death, Carnotaurus - 9pm – 1am - $8 cover - 21+

Darrell's Tavern 18041 Aurora Ave N. 206-542-6688.

Heavy rock metal and punk bands at Shoreline's own Dive Bar. Live music, vintage decor, pizza, tacos, hotdogs, and free pool.

EASY MONKEY TAPHOUSE

Little Bill and the BlueNotes - $7 cover - 8 - 10pm

17537 15th Ave NE Suite B, Shoreline 98155
Call for Reservations: (206) 420-1326

Little Bill and the Blue Notes are an institution more than a band. Since 1956 Bill and various lineups have been wowing audiences with their take on rhythm and blues.

In 1959 the BlueNotes made the national charts with the teenage love song “I Love an Angel” and since then have released a bevy of recordings.

The Daily Flash at Grinders

GRINDERS

The Daily Flash - 8-10:30pm - $10 cover
Reservations highly recommended: call 206-542-0627. And call if you can't make your reservations!

19811 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline 98133

In the mid '60s, The Daily Flash found a way to fuse folk, rock, blues, bluegrass and jazz. That process lives on in this stunning line up.

The new edition of The Daily Flash has earned a reputation as a dynamic vocal band of consummate instrumentalists. The band features ASCAP composers and does original tunes, but their favorite trick is interpretation. They breathe life into an eclectic repertoire of folk, rock, Celtic and Delta swamp fusion. The Daily Flash brings the spirit of the sixties into the 21st century and delivers to stages all around the Northwest.

EntreMundos Quartetos at The Bistro

NORTH CITY BISTRO and WINE SHOP

Brazilian music with EntreMundos at North City Bistro $15 Cover - 8pm - 10:30pm
Reservations and Tickets required
North City Bistro and Wine Shop, 1520 NE 177th St, Shoreline 98155,

Call 206-365-4447 or go to website and fill out the simple reservation request form in order to secure seats for the show. Then buy your tickets here.

EntreMundos Quarteto returns to North City Bistro for another evening of exciting Brazilian music!

Adriana Giordano on vocals
Eric Verlinde on piano
Dean Schmidt on bass
Jeff Busch on drums

85th Street Big Band at The Commons

THIRD PLACE COMMONS

85th Street Big Band - FREE and family friendly. 7:30 - 9:30pm

Third Place Commons Town Center, intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way NE in Lake Forest Park.

Swing music to dance to! This lively 19-piece big band is always a hit with their swinging favorites from the 30s, 40s, and 50s, plus a festive repertoire for the holiday season!

Thanks to sponsor Merlone Geier, Third Place Commons has free music every Friday and Saturday.

AURORA BOREALIS

John English Charity Jazz Jam for NWHarvest  - 3 - 6pm

John English and his friends play some amazing jazz tunes and fundraise for NWHarvest.

The Aurora Borealis 16708 Aurora Ave N, 206-629-5744.

The Borealis has events almost every night - sports, trivia, benefits, reunions, comedy, music

Read more...

Snohomish County Prosecuting attorney defends decision not to file charges in Harvey’s Lounge case involving Shoreline student

Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney Adam Cornell, left,
listens as Diversity Commissioner Mindy Woods, right, asks a question.

Text and photos by Teresa Wippel

Lynnwood Today

Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney Adam Cornell came before the Edmonds Diversity Commission Wednesday night, December 4, 2019 to defend the decision of his office not to charge a Lynnwood woman with malicious harassment in connection with racially motivated threats involving two African American teenagers outside Edmonds’ Harvey’s Lounge.

Police charging documents filed with the prosecutor’s office following the Feb. 4, 2018 incident included a statement by one of the victims, an 18-year-old man — who said he feared for his safety after a woman carrying a baseball bat threatened him and his 14-year-old sister, a Shorecrest student, using a racial slur.

The two teens told police that they were taking pictures for a school project in the parking lot outside the Jack in the Box, located next door to Harvey’s in the 21100 block of Highway 99, when a man came out of the bar and told them to leave. The older teen discovered later that his wallet was missing and so he returned to look for it. 

He said he then saw a woman appear outside Harvey’s holding a baseball bat, and heard her say to him and his sister, “We want you n-word off the property.”

Cornell, who lives in Edmonds and was elected as Snohomish County Prosecutor a year ago, said that the Edmonds police investigation — which included both witness statements and extensive video footage from Harvey’s — did indicate the woman — a Harvey’s employee — was holding a bat and that she did direct racial slurs at the teens. However, the bat “was not brandished in a threatening way,” Cornell said. “And the video proves that.”

The woman appearing at the door of Harvey’s with the baseball bat
Feb. 4, 2018, as captured on surveillance footage.

“In this case there were insufficient facts for my office to charge the suspect with the crime of malicious harassment,” Cornell said. 

However, declining to file charges “in no way endorses the vile and shameful words that were uttered by this person,” he added. 

“This language has no place in a civil society. But the law does not allow me, under the specific facts of this case, to charge this person for their vile and shameful words because the words and the actions did not constitute a true threat under the law. It is not against the law for a person to utter vile and shameful things absent a true threat.”

Cornell also said that Edmonds police “did a fine investigation. It would be unfair for the community to think that the police in this matter didn’t do everything that they possibly could have.” While there was probable cause for referral of charges to the prosecutors office — which police did — prosecutors “have to believe there is proof beyond a reasonable doubt, which is the highest standard in the law,” he said.

Edmonds Diversity Commissioner Donnie Griffin challenged the decision of the prosecutor’s office, stating he believes “there are a couple of things that don’t square up.” One was the lack of the response to citizens’ inquiries regarding the status of the investigation. “Seems to be poor communication,” Griffin said. “What’s most important when these things happen is that we hear from the prosecuting attorney’s office.”

The second issue, Griffin said, is whether the police “dropped the ball in their investigation.” 

“Either the police department didn’t do a very good job with their investigation and (didn’t) bring a case to you that is winnable, or maybe it’s not a priority,” Griffin said.

Cornell replied that “there wasn’t anything else that police could have done.” Video obtained by police was “crystal clear as far as showing our inability to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt,” Cornell said. “We can’t make up the facts. We had everything we needed to make a decision, and it was the right decision.”

The decision not to file charges in the Harvey’s case was made “a long time ago,” Cornell said, but he added that his office doesn’t send out press releases about those decisions. He agreed to come to Wednesday night’s meeting to speak about the issue when the commission inquired earlier this fall about the status of the Harvey’s incident.

Commissioner Mindy Woods asked Cornell why — if the woman was holding a bat and using racial slurs in “a threatening manner” — the case didn’t qualify as a hate crime.

“It doesn’t rise to the level of a prosecutor being able to prove that crime beyond a reasonable doubt based on facts,” Cornell replied. “It just doesn’t.”

“I know you’re all disappointed in this decision and I’m sorry you’re disappointed,” Cornell continued. “But if some day the shoe was on the other foot and somebody wanted me to charge somebody where we didn’t have enough evidence, you would demand that that person not be charged. We don’t pick our causes. We make our decisions based on the facts and the law. And we should not want to live in a society that is any different.”

The mother of the two teens involved in the Harvey’s incident — Darnesha Weary of Edmonds — was present to hear Cornell’s presentation. Commissioner Sarah Mixson nodded to Weary when she asked Cornell if the prosecutor’s office has a policy of informing those involved in such incidents regarding their charging decisions. 

Cornell replied it was his understanding that an assigned victim advocate from his office “reached out to the family” regarding the decision, but Weary responded that she never heard from anyone. 

“That was not information that was provided to me,” replied Cornell, who added that if Weary or other family members weren’t informed, “that’s a miss on my office’s part clearly.”

Commissioner Maria Montalvo said the Harvey’s situation is a good reminder of the work that the Edmonds Diversity Commission can do in the future, such as having an “official channel” open to the prosecutor’s office to monitor charging decisions and to ensure that a victim’s advocate is assigned in similar cases so that followup occurs.

Read more...

Step by step...inch by inch...

Photo by Gloria Nagler

What ARE those red things, anyway, wondered Oscar?

--Gloria Z Nagler

Read more...

LFP Rotary Giving Tree at Town Center

Darlene Zulauf and Carol Dahl

Every year, the Rotary Club of Lake Forest Park sponsors a Giving Tree, which is set up in the lower lobby of Town Center, Lake Forest Park.

The tree has tags with the gender and age of a child whose Christmas needs a little help.

Anyone can take a tag, buy an age appropriate present and return it to the tree for delivery to the child.

Rotary volunteers stay with the tree to answer questions and collect the toys are they come in.

On this day, Darlene Zulauf and Carol Dahl were the angels by the tree.

Gifts are distributed through Hopelink, Shoreline PTA Council Holiday Baskets project, and North Helpline.

Read more...

Crest Theatre special film performance of Les Miserables

Les Miserables – The Staged Concert, Sunday December 8, 2019, 11am - 2pm - Tickets $15

Seen by over 120 million people worldwide, LES MISÉRABLES is undisputedly one of the world’s most popular musicals. 

Coinciding with its 35th triumphant year in London’s West End, Cameron Mackintosh produced a spectacular sold-out staged concert version at the Gielgud Theatre featuring an all-star cast. 

Now cinema audiences can experience the musical phenomenon which broke box office records and sold out its entire 16-week season. The Staged Concert will screen here on December 8 at 11:00am and advance tickets are on sale now!

This is a special event so no discounts/passes will be accepted.

TICKETS $15

Landmark's Crest Cinema Center16505 5th Ave NE, Shoreline 98155

Read more...

Help the Center for Human Services by completing an anonymous survey about health care

Center for Human Services' Family Support Department is partnering with Healthier Here King County in an effort to obtain feedback from the community about health care needs and experiences. 

The intent of the survey is to provide information that will inform improving the health care system for the state, particularly those that receive Washington Apple Health/Medicaid.

We encourage you to have your voice and experiences heard through this community feedback opportunity by completing a short online survey.

Your responses are anonymous and confidential. It takes about 15 minutes to complete the survey if you have children under the age of 18.

Majority of the questions are to get your feedback on the barriers to accessing health care for your family.

We ask that when you complete the survey, please indicate Center for Human Services under question #1 so they know what region/area of the county the survey was disseminated to the community.

The deadline to complete the survey is December 13, 2019.

The link to the online survey is HERE

Learn more about the efforts and work of Healthier Here King County, here.

Read more...

Flags at half-staff December 7 - Pearl Harbor Day

Flag Lowering - 12/7/19 (Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day)

Governor Inslee hereby directs that Washington State and United States flags at all state agency facilities be lowered to half-staff Saturday, December 7, 2019, for National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day was created by Congress in 1994 in honor of those Americans killed or injured as a result of the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

The Governor’s Office has no objection to agencies lowering the flags at the close of business on Friday, December 6, 2019. Flags should remain at half-staff until close of business or sunset on Saturday, December 7, or first thing Monday morning, December 9.

Other government entities, citizens and businesses are encouraged to join this recognition.

Please call (360) 902-0383 if you have any questions about this flag lowering.

Read more...

Basketball: Shorecrest girls win season opener against Jackson

Photo from last season shows
the sentiment 
s cho

By Ela Nordfers

The Shorecrest varsity girl’s basketball team (1-0) defeated the Jackson Timberwolves (0-1) in their season opener on Tuesday night, December 3, 2019, 54-29.

Third year coach Carlos Humphrey returns with a balanced and experienced team, featuring four returning seniors in Amanda Lee, Taylor Svendsen, Sydney VanNess, and Maura Weaver, along with three juniors, and three sophomores.

Returning junior, Kiana Lino, opened the game with a tip to Lee, who passed to VanNess for a layup and the first points of the season. Lee would end the game with six assists and 10 points.

Shorecrest opened the game with a tight press defense, and ended the first quarter 12-6, led by sophomore Leila Hosn’s electric six first quarter points.

Shorecrest struggled in the second quarter, getting outscored 14-10, as Jackson staged a bit of a comeback to end the half down 22-20. But they came back strong in the second half, shutting out Jackson for the first 11 minutes of the half.

The fourth quarter started with a fake and a layup by Weaver that excited the crowd and ended with three straight layups by Hosn, who ended the game as she started it.

Hosn ended the game with 16 points, and VanNess and Lino each pitched in 10 and 9, respectively.

The Shorecrest JV team also won 45-18, and their C team, playing an away game at Mountlake Terrace, won 51-20.

Shorecrest takes on Juanita at Shorecrest High School Wednesday night at 7:15pm.

Read more...