Mountlake Terrace Community Parade

The Shriners were out in force

Story and Photos by David Carlos

Hundreds of spectators lined 56th Avenue West Friday evening July 17, 2026 as the Mountlake Terrace Community Parade brought people together for a lively summer celebration.

Sunny skies and mild temperatures provided a welcome contrast to the thunder and lightning that swept through the area the day before.

Bubblemaker

The parade continues a longtime Mountlake Terrace tradition, although its name and organizers have changed in recent years. After the Smith family retired from organizing the three-day Tour de Terrace festival, the nonprofit MLT Cares sponsored last year’s MLT Parade. This year, the Mountlake Terrace Chamber of Commerce took over as host of the newly named MLT Community Parade.

Dance troupe

Friday's parade offered a little bit of everything: Performance groups, community organizations, marching bands, cultural groups, local businesses, classic cars and plenty of colorful characters. Young dancers displayed brilliant traditional dresses, musicians performed along the route, Scouts carried flags, and first responders greeted spectators from vintage to modern fire engines.

Seafair Pirates aboard the cannon-blasting Moby Duck

The pirates were VERY noisy

Other crowd-pleasers included the Seafair Pirates aboard the cannon-blasting Moby Duck, Shriners performing on miniature and custom rides, a mariachi band, costumed dancers and children participating alongside their families. Spectators also enjoyed a steady procession of Ford Mustangs.

The City of Mountlake Terrace served as the event’s Terrace Title Sponsor. In announcing the partnership, the Chamber said in its Facebook page:

"The MLT Community Parade wouldn't be possible without the incredible support of our Terrace Title Sponsor, the City of Mountlake Terrace. From day one, the City has been more than a sponsor; it's been a true partner. Their guidance, resources, and willingness to help navigate everything from permits and logistics to event planning have been invaluable throughout this process.

The Chamber of Commerce organized the event

"As this is our first year organizing the parade, we've had a lot to learn, and the City's support has helped turn this vision into reality. Their investment in this event reflects a shared commitment to bringing our community together and continuing a tradition that means so much to Mountlake Terrace. 

"Please join us in thanking the City of Mountlake Terrace for helping make the 2026 MLT Community Parade possible. We couldn't have done it without them, and we're grateful for their partnership every step of the way."

Western Vigilantes with their kneeling car

I asked Mayor Woodard, "Why was it important for the city to step up as the title sponsor for the MLT Community Parade?"

He replied: "Well, I would say from where I said, right now, protect your joy should be a theme throughout the county. This is a wonderful opportunity to just bring people out and make sure that we see each other and recognize our needs while we also just enjoy each other's presence"

Concern for Neighbors Food Bank

I asked Councilmember Doyle, "What does the city hope residents will take away from this parade?"

She said: "To find your joy, like the mayor said, and that everybody belongs."

The Double D crew in 1970s dress

One of the most eye-catching groups was the crew from Double D Meats. The group dressed in hip early-1970s clothing, complete with flower-power prints, bell-bottoms, fringe, tinted glasses and peace signs. I dug the far-out, groovy scene.

For the people watching from lawns, sidewalks and folding chairs, the evening offered a chance to reconnect with neighbors—and perhaps collect a little parade loot.

I asked one spectator, who has lived in Mountlake Terrace for 25 years, "What's been your favorite part of the parade so far?"

Free stuff

He said: "All the free stuff." He then pointed to a bag his wife was holding, already filled with giveaways from merchants and parade participants.

Joy, sunshine, and a bag full of freebies. For this year's MLT Community Parade, that sounds like a pretty groovy scene.

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Statements from all candidates in the 32nd Legislative District

By Diane Hettrick

Today's edition has statements from Lauren Davis and Imraan Siddiqi. This completes the information from all 11 legislative candidates in the 32nd Legislative District.

32nd District Representative, Position #2 has two candidates:

• Lauren Davis, incumbent
• Imraan Siddiqi

Because there are only two, both will advance to the general election in November.

Three candidates for 32nd District State Senator:

• Cindy Ryu incumbent Representative (relinquishing Representative seat)
• Ira McBee
• Jesse Salomon incumbent senator

32nd District Representative, Position #1 - open seat

• Jenna Nand
• Will Chen
• Keith Scully
• Danica Noble
• Lisa Rezac
• Chris Bloomquist

Check your personal voter data at this link VoteWA.gov If you have not received your ballot, you can get a replacement there.

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32nd LD Pos #2 Candidate: Lauren Davis

Lauren Davis

Lauren Davis - candidate for 32nd LD Pos #2

It has been an extraordinary honor to represent our community for the past 8 years in the State House. My job title is “Representative” and I take that extremely seriously. I represent you. I am one of three voices you have at the state capitol and that is an enormous responsibility. I pour my whole heart into this work and pride myself on being active and accessible.

I first ran for office in 2018 with the goal to reform our state’s terribly broken mental health and addiction treatment system. I have made tremendous strides in this area, authoring sweeping legislation to allow same day inpatient treatment admissions with no insurance paperwork required, to require a naloxone kit to be provided to every patient with opioid use disorder, and to expand access to medications for alcohol use disorder. I created the Recovery Navigator Program—the only behavioral health program that exists in every county of our state. I have secured tens of millions of dollars to expand recovery housing so that people in early recovery have the best shot at keeping the disease of addiction in remission after they complete treatment.

Having served on the House Community Safety Committee for my entire tenure in the legislature, I have become one of the most pivotal players in crafting our state laws related to crime prevention, criminal justice reform, police oversight, juvenile justice, services to support reentry from incarceration, and domestic violence.

I am running for re-election because the work is not yet finished and because I am a much more competent, skilled lawmaker now than I was when I was first elected. I have amassed tremendous knowledge about our state’s agencies and systems and which levers to pull to most effectively create change. I hope to earn your vote!

Feel free to reach out anytime  I can be reached at lauren@electlaurendavis.com.

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32nd LD Pos #2 Candidate: Imraan Siddiqi

Imraan Siddiqi

Imraan Siddiqi - candidate for 32nd LD Pos #2

We are living in a time where our fundamental rights as Americans are under attack. Our right to speak freely. Our right to assemble. Our right to live in safety and dignity without fear of being targeted based on our race or status. Many Washingtonians feel helpless in this moment, or that their voice is not being represented. In Washington State, there is something we can do to push back against these violations by our federal government. We can actually use our state laws to push back and ensure all Washingtonians are protected. As a longtime civil rights and immigrant rights leader, I have long served on the frontlines of defending the Constitution. The 32nd Legislative District needs a representative who will be that strong voice and fighter for the rights of everyone, and I am that fighter.

I am also the father of three teenage sons, two of whom are in college. My wife and I are both nonprofit professionals and have acutely experienced the affordability crisis that is hitting the middle and working classes the hardest. Our democracy was founded to be the voice of the people – not corporations, and I will be a voice within the legislature to ensure the people are heard once again.

As a former small business owner, I know the deep struggles that our small businesses in the district face. Bringing this well-rounded background into the legislature will allow me to represent the perspectives of so many communities who have not been heard for far too long. I am endorsed by many sitting legislators and respected organizations throughout the state, who are ready for a change from the status quo.

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Hey kids! Want to have fun / learn English by reading out loud - Shoreline Library has Reading Buddies

Reading Buddies at the Shoreline Library

Tuesdays, July 21 and 28 and August 4, 11 and 18, 1:30-3pm

Volunteers help students practice reading out loud for up to 30 minutes! Two students are paired by reading level with each volunteer. Book selection focuses on readers in grades K-8 and English language learners in grades K-12.

Reading Buddies choose from a cart of books or share eBooks on an iPad.

345 NE 175th St, Shoreline 98155
206-362-7550
www.kcls.org

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July 25th is Kids Day at the Market

The Shoreline Farmers Market celebrates Kids Day on Saturday July 25, 2026 from 10am to 2pm with an array of events and activities for young ones.

A real cow - plant flowers - get your face painted!

Listen to a story or check out a beehive. Or participate in the ever popular Build a Birdhouse.

The market is held at the BikeLink Park 'n Ride at 192nd and Aurora. 

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Celebrate the Richmond Beach Library July 28, 2026

Celebrate the Richmond Beach Library

Tuesday, July 28, 2026 from 5:30 - 7:30pm

Richmond Beach Library

19601 21st Ave NW

All ages welcome.

To celebrate 25 years in our beloved building, we're hosting an open house.

Explore old photos, reconnect with library memories, and enjoy light refreshments.

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Collision on Westminster Way

Medics check person sitting on the ground.
Photo by Bruce Miller

A collision on Westminster Way, about a block north of N 145th on Friday July 17, 2026 sent one person to the hospital.

A black SUV was traveling south on Westminster Way when it collided with a silver vehicle apparently exiting from the driveway at Bullseye Creative (Building to the right in the photo).

Photo by Bruce Miller

The impact spun the SUV around, where it landed pointing in the opposite direction. The silver vehicle went off the road and ended up in the bushes next to the road.

Shoreline medics responded and transported one person to the hospital. Another was checked at the scene.

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Travels with Charlie: A bit of Good News… Rescue Time

Photo by Gordon Snyder

This Western Flycatcher was in the Cabin kitchen window sill when Charlie and I came in from a warm walk. 

Getting exhausted looking for a way out. Chris had it walk into a jar. Worked perfectly. She freed it in a hanging flower basket to recuperate 

Fly Away… Gone.

Unexpected Joys,
Gordon Snyder

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Ballots have been mailed out for the primary election

Photo by GM Wiegand

By Diane Hettrick

Ballots should be arriving soon for the August primary election. The 32nd Legislative district, which includes all of Shoreline and extends southwest into Seattle and north into Snohomish county, has a crowded field.

We have published statements from the candidates for Representative Position #1 (see below).

Now we have the statements for the three candidates for 32nd District State Senator:

• Cindy Ryu incumbent Representative (relinquishing Representative seat)
• Ira McBee
• Jesse Salomon incumbent senator

32nd District Representative, Position #1 - open seat

• Jenna Nand
• Will Chen
• Keith Scully
• Danica Noble
• Lisa Rezac
• Chris Bloomquist

Check your personal voter data at this link VoteWA.gov If you have not received your ballot, you can get a replacement there.

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Candidate for Senate 32nd Legislative District - Ira McBee

Ira McBee

Ira McBee - Candidate for Senate 32nd Legislative District

I never wanted to be a politician.
A few years ago I started sending emails to my representatives about decisions being made in Olympia and their impact on our communities. Eventually I realized that if people who believe accountability matters don't step forward, things don't stay the same. They get worse.

I've spent most of my adult life doing work that required exactly what I think a good legislator needs: bringing together people who disagree, building trust where little exists, and helping them solve problems they couldn't solve alone. I've worked in over twenty countries, including active conflict zones, helping deeply divided communities find a way forward. I wrote a conflict reconciliation curriculum while living in the West Bank. I've been doing that kind of work for more than two decades.

I've done that in harder rooms than Olympia.

My wife and I live in Edmonds and are raising our family here, and like many families, we've felt the pressure of rising costs and growing frustration with the direction of our state. Washington isn't delivering the results families were promised. The state budget has more than doubled, yet too many people feel like they're working harder, paying more, and falling behind. Healthy government requires balance, scrutiny, and people willing to ask hard questions about whether spending is actually working.

The question isn't how much government spends. The question is whether people are seeing the results. We should feel it in our paychecks, on our roads, and in our schools. Most families don't.

I would bring to the Senate a track record of building trust with people who had every reason not to give it, and a genuine commitment to asking whether we're getting the results we're paying for, not as a slogan, but as a standard I've applied throughout my career.

If Washington were working, we'd all know it. We'd feel it. The fact that we don't is the reason I'm here.

Ira McBee
Republican Candidate, Washington State Senate, 32nd District
iramcbee.com

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Candidate for Senate 32nd Legislative District - Cindy Ryu

Cindy Ryu

Cindy Ryu - Candidate for Senate 32nd Legislative District

I am seeking election to the Senate to continue delivering effective, reliable leadership for the 32nd District to address affordability, access to healthcare, and fully fund our schools.

I have served the 32nd Legislative District since 2011. As a Shoreline City Councilmember, I became the first Korean American woman elected mayor. I am a Husky, a small business owner, and a longtime advocate for consumers and working families. We raised our children in the Shoreline and Edmonds Schools before they attended UW-Seattle.

I have championed legislation expanding housing, protecting workers, strengthening consumer rights, and investing in transportation and economic development while serving as chair of Housing and Community Development, and now as chair of the Technology, Economic Development and Veterans Committee, with jurisdiction over disaster preparedness and resilience.

I have expanded accountability for hate crimes, supported public schools, invested in broadband and local businesses, and fought to make government more efficient, transparent and accountable.

The state’s budget shortfall only highlights how Washington’s tax system is failing to meet the needs of our rapidly growing state. Our unfair structure is contributing to ever-growing income inequality. I will continue to support progressive taxation.

I served on the Appropriations Committee and had direct input on the state’s Operating budget. We are facing unnecessary pressure from the federal government’s passage of H.R. 1, and our state now has a greater administrative burden and cost to provide less in SNAP and Medicaid benefits as more of our most vulnerable people struggle to survive.

Despite those pressures, I am committed to supporting Washingtonians who are struggling and keeping core services funded. I stood against calls to slash the budget and cause pain to people, and in the Senate, I will continue to advocate for the most vulnerable among us. I ask for your vote.

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Candidate for Senate 32nd Legislative District - Jesse Salomon

Jesse Salomon

Candidate for Senate 32nd Legislative District - Jesse Salomon

It has been an honor to serve the people of the 32nd Legislative District in the Washington State Senate. One of the most gratifying parts of my job is helping individual people with problems. For example, cutting red tape so a child can get a life- saving operation and helping people get unemployment checks they need.

Since March when I launched my re-election campaign, I have gone door to door listening to your concerns and ideas. As I talk to people in the district, I sense a deep sadness about our federal politics. But there is hope and I have not given up.

I am proud of what we have done to respond to the Trump chaos. The legislature has restored money Trump cut from Planned Parenthood, protected your voter information from Trump, passed a law to ban ICE face masks, continued access to preventive healthcare and vaccines.

I have also worked to provide more funding for education. One bill I am planning to introduce is for the state to pay the cost of utilities and insurance for local school districts so they can hire more teachers.

Many of our Veterans suffer from PTSD. I support new innovative drug treatments to help the men and women who have given so much to our country live fruitful lives. Unlike my opponent, I support requiring legislators to comply with the Washington Public Disclosure Act as local elected officials are required to do.

We need to address our drug problem. I support requiring drug treatment to help end the cycle of addiction rather than looking the other way. We must also crack down on the pimps that traffic women on Aurora. I also support banning the sale of synthetic heroin that is sold in convenience stores.

My email is info@votesalomon.com

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Tiny Art Drop-in for the Richmond Beach Library 25th Building Anniversary July 22, 2026

Tiny Art Drop-in

Wednesday, July 22 6–7pm

Richmond Beach Library

19601 21st Ave NW, Shoreline, WA 98177

One canvas per person while supplies last, or use your own 5” x 5” canvas.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Richmond Beach Library.

Paint a tiny masterpiece to display for the 25th Building Anniversary of the Richmond Beach Library on July 28, 2026. 

Themes are “Why I Love My Library,” “What My Library Means to Me,” and “Celebrating My Library.”

Create your masterpiece during our drop-in program or take a blank canvas and bring your piece back for display by July 27. Registration not required.

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Start planning for National Night Out for Community in Shoreline on August 4, 2026

Bring your neighborhood together for National Night Out for Community on August 4, 2026.

Registered block parties may request visits from the Shoreline Police Department, Shoreline Fire Department, and City officials, subject to availability.

National Night Out is a chance to strengthen neighborhood connections, meet local public servants, and celebrate community together.

Learn more and register your event at here.

If you wish to close your street for the event, you will need to apply to the City of Shoreline. One of the requirements is a copy of the invitation to neighbors and the city provides a sample.

View application requirements and resources at here.

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Thunder and lightning

Map courtesy Lightning Maps.org

The Washington Emergency Management Division published this map of lightning strikes within a 24 hour period.

Did you notice how the thunder came in bands? One would move on and it would be quiet for a space, then the next would come in louder.

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Mud Bay brings people and their pets together to Beat the Heat on National Ice Cream Day July 19, 2026

Photo courtesy Mud Bay

This National Ice Cream Day, Mud Bay is inviting pet parents across the Pacific Northwest to cool off with their dogs and cats during a free community celebration at every Mud Bay location.

On Sunday, July 19, 2026 from 1:00–3:00pm, every Mud Bay location will offer free Boss Dog Peanut Butter & Applesauce Frozen Yogurt for dogs and cats, while supplies last. 

We have a Mud Bay in Shoreline at 1201 N 175th St, Shoreline, WA 98133 across from City Hall AND a Mud Bay in Lake Forest Park, 17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park, WA 98155 on the lower wing of Town Center.

Customers are encouraged to bring their pets, meet fellow pet lovers, and enjoy a fun summer outing together.

 

"One of the best parts of what we do is creating moments that bring pets and the people who love them together," said Mud Bay’s Marketing Manager Justin Anderson.

"National Ice Cream Day gives us a fun opportunity to celebrate the special bond people share with their dogs and cats while welcoming our neighbors into our stores for a simple afternoon of connection."

Made with 100% human-grade ingredients and formulated specifically for pets, Boss Dog Peanut Butter & Applesauce Frozen Yogurt provides dogs and cats with a safe, refreshing way to cool off during the summer.

Founded in Olympia in 1988, family and employee-owned Mud Bay has grown to become the Pacific Northwest's largest independent pet retailer, with 64 locations across Washington and Oregon. 

Known for its knowledgeable staff and commitment to helping dogs and cats live happier, healthier lives, Mud Bay has built its reputation by creating meaningful connections with pets, pet parents, and the communities it serves.

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Kids can practice reading with Reading Buddies at the Shoreline Library Tuesdays in July and August 2026

Reading Buddies at the Shoreline Library

Tuesdays 1:30-3pm

• July 21 and 28
• August 4, 11 and 18

Volunteers help students practice reading out loud for up to 30 minutes! 

Two students are paired by reading level with each volunteer. 

Book selection focuses on readers in grades K-8 and English language learners in grades K-12. Reading Buddies choose from a cart of books or share eBooks on an iPad.

345 NE 175th St, Shoreline 98155

206-362-7550 

Summer Reading at the King County Library

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Local Rotarian selected as the District 5030 Governor for 2029-2030

Jim Pullin Jr. Rotary District 5030 Governor 
2029-2030

By Judy Maccully

The Rotary Club of Shoreline is proud to announce that member Jim Pullin Jr. has been officially selected by the District 5030 Governor Nominating Committee to serve as District Governor for the 2029–2030 Rotary year. 

As a result of this prestigious selection, the Rotary Club of Shoreline will have the distinct honor of serving as the host club during District Governor Jim’s upcoming leadership tenure.

Jim brings a proven, deep-rooted record of servant leadership and professional excellence to the position, embodying the core Rotary mission of "Service Above Self".

A Legacy of Dedicated Leadership

Within the local community, Jim has been a vital pillar of the Rotary Club of Shoreline. Throughout his years of membership, he has stepped up to serve in nearly every major executive capacity, including roles as Vice President, President-Elect, President, and Immediate Past President.

His steady guidance has extended well beyond the local club level. At the regional level, Jim currently serves District 5030 as the District Member Attraction Chair and currently is serving as an Assistant Governor. Jim also played a pivotal leadership role in orchestrating major regional events, including the planning of the recent District 5030 Conference in Walla Walla.

Professional and Civic Excellence

Professionally, Jim is a highly respected, nationally recognized real estate professional.. He is a Managing Broker with Skyline Properties and is the owner of PJK Enterprise. Known as a natural mentor, public speaker, and trainer, Jim possesses deep corporate expertise in negotiation, team building, and business development.

A Foundation Built on Excellence

Jim’s discipline and team-first mindset were forged early during his academic and athletic career. He is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, where he earned a degree in Economics. During his time as a collegiate athlete, Jim distinguished himself as an elite competitor, becoming a three-time NCAA Division I National Champion and an 18-time First Team All-American in swimming.

The exact same qualities that propelled Jim to the pinnacle of collegiate athletics—discipline, fierce determination, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to excellence—are what he brings to regional Rotary leadership today.

Looking Ahead to 2029–2030

Jim’s collaborative leadership style, strategic vision, and passion for developing leaders uniquely prepare him to strengthen clubs and build meaningful relationships across District 5030.

The Rotary Club of Shoreline invites the entire community to join them in congratulating Jim Pullin Jr. on this remarkable achievement. Local members look forward to supporting his upcoming administration and witnessing the positive, lasting impact his leadership will make throughout the district.

How to Join or Support Shoreline Rotary

The ⁠Shoreline Rotary Club welcomes all local business owners, professionals, and civic leaders who want to give back to their community. The club relies on active members and neighbors to drive its outreach initiatives.

The club hosts bi-weekly hybrid gatherings (1st and 3rd Wed 7:30-8:30am). These meetings are used to share ideas, connect, and plan upcoming service initiatives. Check out our website and plan on a visit to one of our next meetings. Prospective members can reach out via the Shoreline Rotary via email to contact@shorelinerotary.com to receive direct login credentials and upcoming schedule details.

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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Nailed it

 Cartoons by Whitney Potter

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Movies @ the Square Event in Kenmore July 22 & August 19, 2026

We are in prime event season and the Movies @ the Square event series are a must to experience in the summer. 

Set in Kenmore’s Town Square, 6728 NE 181st St #3805, Kenmore, WA 98028 the movies offer a free, family-friendly summer activity. The movies were selected by the community via an online vote. 

We are excited to show Zootopia on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 and Ratatouille on Wednesday, August 19. 

Pre-movie activities begin at 8pm and include family friendly arts and crafts in the Hangar. The movie starts at dusk. Bring your own low chair or blanket to sit on. High chairs allowed in the back area. Food trucks will be on site.

Event details here

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Shoreline High School Class of 1963 Mini Reunion August 24, 2026

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King County Assessor mailing out property valuations - some residential values are down

The King County Assessor’s office has begun the annual process of mailing property valuation notices to taxpayers. 

While the valuation process is not yet complete countywide, it is clear that upward market pressure was easing in 2025 and, in some cases, lowering residential values in neighborhoods across King County. 

“After several years of significant value increases, the residential housing market in King County is cooling. This cooling is happening in other parts of the state and the country, as well,” said Al Dams, Chief Deputy Assessor. 

“On the commercial side in King County, the high vacancy rates and corresponding value decreases in the big Seattle office towers are dramatic, but the overall commercial market remains stable.”

On the commercial side, as has been widely reported, major office buildings in the Seattle central business district have experienced declining values and rising vacancy rates. According to preliminary figures, values have receded between 5% and 20% in the downtown Seattle office buildings. 

These major office buildings, however, are only a small part of the commercial sector. Commercial values remained relatively stable over the last year, and the decline among downtown office buildings will not create an appreciable increase in property taxes for the vast majority of taxpayers across King County.

It is important to remember that voter approved levies have more impact on property tax increase than do changes in home values.

The total amount of property tax collected is derived from the budgets passed by state, county, and local governments, and by locally approved levies. The value of each property determines proportionally how much each taxpayer will pay of that total amount.

Each year, County Assessors set values on every commercial and residential property value in the state. These values – set effective as of January 1 by state law – are then applied to the next year’s tax bill. Property values are being set as of January 1, 2026, for taxes due in 2027.

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Ballots are in the mail for the August Primary Election

Charlie at the ballot drop box at Lake Forest Park Town Hall
Photo by Gordon Snyder

King County Elections (KCE) mailed ballots to over 1.4 million registered voters today, marking the start of the August Primary voting period. Election Day is Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

Voters will receive their ballots in the coming days and should have them by Monday, July 20. If they don’t see their ballot by then, voters should call KCE at 206-296-VOTE (8683).

Official ballot drop boxes are the best and fastest way for voters to return their ballot directly to KCE. Those who vote within a week of Election Day, or on Election Day itself, should make a plan to use a ballot drop box to ensure their ballot is on-time to be counted.

Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked by Election Day. USPS recommends mailing your ballot at least one week before Election Day.

In recent months, KCE has added six new drop box locations, including at the Central Library in downtown Seattle, Northgate Library in Seattle, Kent-Kangley Safeway in Kent, on the Bellevue College and Green River College campuses, and in front of the Skykomish Community Center.

“I want to see every single voter in King County make their voice heard in this August Primary. As vote-by-mail continues to be under attack, there is no better way to show up for democracy than to turn out to vote,” stated King County Director of Elections Julie Wise.

“We have been planning and preparing for months for both the Primary and General Elections, and we are ready to help our voters every step of the way. Whether it’s expanding in-person service or access to drop boxes, or improving election security, Elections is doing the hard work to make democracy happen.

"Now, it’s our voters’ turn. Vote early. Use a drop box. Make your vote count.”

The deadline to register to vote online in the August Primary is July 27. After that, voters can register in-person at a Vote Center or Accessible Voting Event through 8 p.m. on Election Day.

All voters are strongly encouraged to vote early in this year’s elections, and to track their ballot until it’s counted. Voting early not only ensures that the ballot is on-time to be counted but also helps KCE post more robust election results on Election Night and in the days following.

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ICE ramps up presence in Shoreline as witnesses push back

A sign along Aurora Avenue North in Shoreline marks where a person was arrested by federal immigration agents in June. (David Mendez/The Osprey)

Reprinted with permission from The Osprey

For more reporting from The Osprey, please visit OspreyNews.net

By David Mendez

Federal agents driving unmarked cars chased an unknown person through residential side streets at high speeds in Shoreline’s Parkwood neighborhood on Sunday.

The Osprey witnessed the chase, in which agents drove through neighborhood streets at high speeds with flashing lights and sirens, before it ended near Stone Avenue North and North 161st Street.

Watch video on YouTube
Warning: strong language

Witness video taken by a neighbor showed apparent federal agents wearing tactical vests with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement patches. Some were seen wearing facial coverings while others covered up once they learned they were being recorded — all apparent violations of Washington State law. 

Video then showed the agents getting into unmarked vehicles and driving away, apparently without the person they were chasing.

James Rietzke is used to hearing sirens from his backyard — his home is a long stone’s throw from Aurora Avenue. But as he heard the sirens getting louder, he realized they were coming down his street.

“We saw a car drive by, saw another car drive by, and I was like, those are unmarked vehicles — was that ICE? So we ran out of the gate and came around the corner immediately,” Rietzke told The Osprey.

He heard yelling as agents identified themselves as “police” and “ICE” and took out his phone.

Soon after agents saw him, they left the area. It wasn’t immediately clear that they had detained anyone. The civilian car that was being chased — a blue sedan — was initially left behind at the scene.

According to additional witnesses, federal agents were chasing a man before he hastily parked his car on the side of the road, jumped out and hid on a nearby residential property. ICE agents sought access to the property, but were denied entry by the person living there, a resident named Kyle.

Neighbors were shaken up. Kyle was in his driveway, working on his car, when he heard the commotion.

“I got up, was looking around, and this guy runs past me. He ran through my yard and then I lost track of where he went,” he said, adding that the person they were chasing appeared Hispanic.

When agents asked if they could search for the man, Kyle said no, and looked himself. By then, he said, the man was gone. “So I assume he just kept going through people’s yards to get away.”

The agents repeatedly told Kyle that the man they were chasing was a felon. “I’m not really sure about the validity of that,” he said.

About 15 minutes later, the abandoned car was gone. According to neighbors, the man — clearly distressed — emerged from a nearby hiding spot, retook his car and drove off.

ICE policies regarding “emergency driving” are governed by a 2012 handbook, which asks agents to consider if the “severity of the criminal offense outweighs the danger” to the public before deciding to engage in a chase.

But ICE has been criticized for aggressive tactics that have lead to deaths and injuries across the country this year. On Monday morning, ICE agents allegedly shot and killed a person in a vehicle in Maine. 

Last week in Houston, agents shot and killed a man during a vehicle stop. ICE chases led to two crashes in Detroit in May and June, leaving both civilians and agents with injuries. A woman was killed in Georgia in February by a man who was fleeing from ICE arrest.

ICE has yet to respond to a request for comment regarding the agency’s policies and tactics.

“I hate hearing about ICE activity in our community. It does not reflect our values, it does not reflect who we are as local citizens or as local leaders,” Shoreline Mayor Betsy Robertson told The Osprey on Monday when asked about the incident.

“This activity is not welcome in Shoreline. It’s wildly frustrating that these agents are fanning their noses at the laws that have been passed in our state,” Robertson said, urging that residents document “illegal activity” — such as ICE agents violating the state’s mask ban for law enforcement — with police reports and video recordings.

“It sounds like documenting might have defused the situation,” she said.

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Flag Lowering - July 14, 2026 (Sen. Lindsey Graham)

Gov. Bob Ferguson:

Flag Lowering - July 14, 2026 (Sen. Lindsey Graham)

Pursuant to the Presidential Proclamation, I hereby direct that Washington State and United States flags at all state agency facilities be lowered to half-staff immediately.

Flags should remain at half-staff until 6:00pm on Saturday, July 18, 2026, or first thing Monday morning, July 20th.

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

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Crafts Day at the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market July 19, 2026

Get ready for one of the most anticipated events of the season - Crafts Day at the Market!

Sunday, July 19, 2026 from 10am – 2pm at the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market 17171 Bothell Way NE (in front of City Hall)

Join us for a full day of shopping, discovery, and community as we celebrate the incredible creativity of Washington’s local makers. You’ll find an amazing selection of handcrafted treasures from talented artists and crafters, all made right here in Washington State.

Explore unique finds like:

• Stunning jewelry
• Luxurious natural skincare
• Hand-poured candles
• One-of-a-kind home décor
• Beautiful textiles and clothing
• Fine art, ceramics, and much more!

Whether you're shopping for yourself, picking up gifts, or just enjoying a beautiful summer outing, there’s something for every taste and style. With returning favorites and exciting new vendors, this year's lineup promises the best shopping day of the summer.

And while you’re there, make sure to stock up on the freshest produce, baked goods, sweet treats, fish, meat, gorgeous flowers and more with our wide selection of farmers and vendors.

Mark your calendar, bring your friends, and come ready to shop local!

We look forward to seeing you at the Market!

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An incredible day at the LFP PD Safety Day at Town Center

At the start of a race

What an incredible day at Lake Forest Park Police Department Safety Day event on Saturday July 11, 2026 at LFP Town Center! 

Thanks to everyone who joined us, it was a tremendous success, with hundreds of smiling kids and parents coming together for a fun, interactive day focused on safety and community.

Checking out the public works vehicle

The kids had an amazing time racing through the bicycle and tricycle course, sharpening their soccer skills at the inflatable target, exploring our patrol vehicles and fire department apparatus, and climbing aboard Public Works tractors and backhoes. 

There was truly something for everyone to enjoy.

Helmets were funded by LFP Rotary 

A special thank you goes to the Lake Forest Park Rotary for their generous support. 

LFP Rotary members pose with Mayor Tom French on the low-rider

Their contribution allowed us to provide hundreds of bicycle helmets and water safety vests to local families, helping keep our community's children safer both on land and in the water. 

Mayor Tom French leading the way

A big thank you goes also to the city employees who assisted us in making this event a success.

Our officers had a great time meeting and interacting with everyone who attended. Events like these are a great reminder of the strong partnerships that make Lake Forest Park such a wonderful community.

An early start at the soccer target

Finally, a well-deserved recognition goes to Traffic Support Officer Amanda Johnson, whose leadership, dedication, and countless hours of planning made this event possible. 

Amanda Johnson getting her photo taken with a young participant.

Outstanding job, Amanda, and thank you to everyone who helped make this year's Safety Day such a memorable success!

--LFP PD

--Photos from multiple sources

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