Restful Facade hides a hive of activity

Shaded morning chairlift perch
Photo by Lee Rolfe

By Lee Rolfe

Do you ever walk your dog down a quiet residential street and wonder about the yard that lies behind that comfortable little single-storied house? You could stop the advance of your eager friend and consult an aerial view on Google Maps. 

Or, mark your calendar for June 20, 2026 the date of the 22nd annual Secret Gardens of Lake Forest Park Tour. This year’s event affords you a whole Saturday to explore six imaginative gardens, each of them enhanced by live onsite music, plein air artists, and the company of fellow garden makers.

One such garden on this year’s tour lies behind a conifer-shaded house with an air of introspection. Although the Little Free Library out front suggests a house of physical languor, the comfortable little single-storied house hides a deep back lot filled with colorful activity and industriousness. 

Here among the many plants lie two outdoor points of repose and two indoor points of personal craft and professionalism.

The first outdoor point is an open air platform swing recalling alpine adventures. Sitters can sway, overlooking colorful perennial beds, bird feeding stations, and the neighbor’s evergreen property line. 

The second outdoor point is a shaded, vine-draped open air patio, furnished with cushioned seating for seasonal gatherings. It must have hosted many grateful friends during COVID times, as a point of fragrant, ventilated shelter.

A frisbee’s throw from these open-air destinations are two additional mini-structures, both eaved and hospitable in all weather. 

One, a writer’s hideaway painted pea green with coral trim could have been transplanted from Astrid Lindgren’s imagination. The owner occupies it near daily to focus and create. 

The other, a zinc-white, porched and bell-towered little bungalow could have sprung from a village in north Marin County. This building serves as the newer home of a long-standing professional practice, ending many years of commuting to a distant office space.

Although the scores of tulips blazing there today will be gone by June, the buildings’ paint trims echo their palette. There will be painted accents of vivid magenta, paprika red, and Scandinavian golds holding forth against the gray-green of winter.

While the structure of the garden owes much to these built environments, the plants occupy center stage. Doug fir, cedar, magnolia, cherry and many rhododendrons fulfill the woody role. The vines onsite include wisteria, honeysuckle, and three cultivars of grape are developing their chops. 

Creeping Jenny, sweet woodruff, and forget-me-nots edge the beds. These days they are filled with chartreuse euphorbia, glossy bold acanthus leaves, and a many textured collection of ferns and bamboo. The timber-bordered beds contain hosta, rose, peony, hydrangea, iris, geranium and foxglove; in the owner’s words, many “generous-spirited plants”.

The accomplished gardener-owners and their now adult children have all contributed to the success of this garden. The former can be consulted for insights on plant-sourcing, how to interest teens in doing garden maintenance, the benefits of applying six yards of mulch, and the merits of enlisting a certified arborist. Their pets can comment on the ingenuity of rabbits and coyotes on the block.

Check it out!

Buy tickets here

Secret Gardens of Lake Forest Park Garden Tour and Market
Saturday, June 20, 2026
9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Gardens throughout Lake Forest Park

Map Pick up - Third Place Commons

17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park WA 98155

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Northbound I-5 lane, ramp closures expected in Shoreline overnight Thursday, May 21

Northbound Interstate 5 will have lane and ramp closures between NE 175th Street to State Route 104 (NE 205th Street) in Shoreline from 11pm Thursday, May 21 to 5am Friday, May 22, 2026 for sign maintenance.

During the closure, the right lane of northbound I-5 will be closed as well as the northbound on-ramp from NE 175th Street. 

Washington State Department of Transportation maintenance crews will replace overhead signs during this closure. This work is weather-dependent.

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Shorewood girls varsity golf team headed to State

Shorewood girls varsity golf team with coach Val Patrick
Photo by Brittany Shelly

Shorewood girls golf is heading to state for the 1st time ever!! 

Coach Val Patrick & her Varsity girls golf team placed 3rd in the NW district 1 3A tournament last Tuesday, May 12, 2026. 

They will now be traveling to Spokane to compete in the State tournament on Tuesday May 19th. 

It is the first time SW has gone to state as a team in the history of their girls golf team!  

The players are Senior, Sadie Austad, Junior Julia Kang, Junior Ivy Ren & Freshman Skylar Helstad. 

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Business Spotlight: Making Complex Clear: Sara McArdle Design Helps Organizations Communicate with Purpose

Local Spotlight brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, DestinationShoreline.com

Making Complex Clear: Sara McArdle Design Helps Organizations Communicate with Purpose

Turning Complex Ideas Into Clear, Impactful Design for Organizations That Matter

Behind every strong nonprofit, healthcare system, or community organization is clear, thoughtful communication, and that’s where Sara McArdle Design comes in. Based in Shoreline’s Ridgecrest neighborhood, Sara partners with organizations doing meaningful work to help them communicate more clearly, consistently, and effectively. Through brand strategy, publication design, and systems thinking, her work goes beyond visuals, helping teams function better and connect more deeply with the people they serve.
 
Q & A with Sara McArdle Design

Q: What inspired you to start your business?

A: I’ve always liked helping organizations make the complex clearer—whether that’s their brand, their publications, or just how they communicate overall. After years of working in-house for nonprofits and healthcare systems, I realized my favorite part wasn’t just designing something new, but building systems that made people’s jobs easier long-term. Freelancing full-time lets me work closely with a wider range of organizations and businesses doing meaningful work, and create campaigns and collateral that are both strategic and well-designed. I especially enjoy supporting those that either don’t have an in-house designer or need extra capacity when their teams are stretched.
 
Q: What service does your business provide for our community?

A: I provide graphic design, brand strategy, and publication and template design for organizations that are actively helping people—healthcare systems, nonprofits, education, unions, and community-focused businesses. That can mean annual reports, newsletters, brand refreshes, event campaigns, or helping teams organize and strengthen the materials they already have so they work better and feel more consistent.
 
Q: What do you love the most about Shoreline?

A: I love how much of a true community it feels. When I lived in Seattle, things often felt more anonymous, but in Shoreline there’s a real sense of connection. The checkers at Ballinger Thriftway recognize me and ask how I’ve been, I know my postal worker, and we know all the neighbors on our block, some well enough that they've come over for dinner. There are also so many community programs that make people feel invested here—from free e-bike programs and tree giveaways to environmental mini-grants and neighborhood improvement programs. If you report an issue with a street or a park, the city actually responds quickly. It feels like a place where people care and where being involved makes a real difference.
 
Q: What has been your proudest moment in business so far?

A: Going full-time with my freelance business in 2025 was a big one. It was a leap, but it felt like the right one. I’ve also been proud to win national healthcare design awards for work I created while supporting Overlake Medical Center & Clinics—especially because those projects directly supported patients, donors, and the broader community, not just the organization itself.
 
Q: How do you approach customer service, and what sets you apart?

A: I try to make the process feel calm, clear, collaborative—and fun! Design projects can feel overwhelming, so I focus on strong communication, realistic timelines, and creating systems that are actually useful—not just pretty. I’m also certified through an International Coaching Federation-accredited coaching program, which helps me facilitate conversations, ask better questions, and get to the root of what clients actually need—both when planning a project and when gathering feedback. The final product isn’t about me; it’s about helping clients see blind spots, find clarity, and create something that truly works for them.
 
Q: What advice would you give to someone starting a business in Shoreline?

A: Start by talking to people. There are some genuinely great networking groups here, and the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce is a great place to start—it makes networking feel much less intimidating and much more like building real relationships. Reconnect with existing contacts, let people know what you do, and say yes to opportunities to attend local events and meet other business owners. A lot of business really is about who you know and who knows you. Confidence usually comes through action, not before it, so don’t wait until you feel completely ready.
 
Q: How does your business support or give back to the local community?

A: A big part of my work is choosing clients whose work directly helps people—healthcare, nonprofits, education, and community programs. I see design as a way to support that by helping them communicate clearly, raise support, and better serve the people they’re trying to reach. I also volunteer my time and skills for community organizations and industry events, and I believe strongly in supporting other local small businesses through referrals, collaboration, and staying involved in the Shoreline community.
 
Q: What future plans or goals do you have for your business?

A: I’d love to keep building long-term relationships with clients who care about people and community impact—nonprofits, healthcare, education, arts and culture, civic organizations, and local businesses doing meaningful work. One of my goals is to grow more ongoing retainer partnerships, where I can function as a trusted creative partner—almost like an extension of a client’s team—supporting them consistently as needs come up without being full-time staff. Helping clients build stronger systems—not just better-looking materials—is already central to how I work, whether that means making their brands clearer, easier to use, or more sustainable long-term. My goal isn’t to become the biggest studio—it’s to build thoughtful work with people who value strong relationships and design that actually solves problems.
 
Connect with Sara McArdle Design
 Shoreline (Ridgecrest area)
 206-657-7412
 www.saramcardledesign.com
 sara@saramcardledesign.com
 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/saramcardle

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Letter to the Editor: Remind the City Council that they represent all citizens

To the Editor:

I moved to Shoreline in 1980 when I was young, so I walked, bicycled and used public transit. But I grew older, and as you get older you can no longer walk as far and bicycling becomes difficult or impossible. Transit has changed to focus on access to light rail. And scooters? Haha.

Plans for the City include more biking, more walking and less driving. However, this is practical only for younger people. There are a lot of people that live beyond that mobility age and those people also need the means to go to the store to buy food or pick up prescriptions. It is unrealistic to think that people can continue to only walk or bike or use public transit all of their lives.

If you want to go to a local grocery store to buy a few things you will need a vehicle because you need a means to bring everything home. It is difficult to carry several items home if you are a senior and walk to the store.

If you need to buy groceries for a week, it is important that you’re able to go to the store and buy those things and get them home. You may not be able to do this if you have to balance them on a bicycle or carry them when you walk all of the way home.

If you have to buy just a few things for yourself, or you and your partner, then you may be able to do it. But if the family is more than you and your partner, you have to have the ability to carry several things home - including milk, soda, laundry detergent and other heavy items.

I believe that our city is so focused on getting people off of the roads that we have forgotten that people need to have access to things even if they are unable to use a bicycle or walk and carry heavy things. Even some younger people can’t or don’t wish to carry 30 or 50 pounds from the store to their home. At least there are now delivery options.

By the way, it does occasionally rain here.

I’m not against walking. I still walk daily but cannot carry groceries home.

We have to remember that there are many ages in Shoreline. It’s also important that people remember that laws and other changes to what we can do, whether you call it zoning or priorities, need to support everybody - not just a few young people or the disabled.

If this is not what you want, then fine, just tell people that this is a city only for people who are young. We are supporting only people who are riding bikes or walking, and if you are too old to do either of those things, then move somewhere else.

The City needs to continue to support people who are older so that they can continue to live a real life in the City of Shoreline.

We need to remind the Shoreline Council members that they represent all citizens.

Pam Cross

Shoreline

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Poison control specialists

Certified Specialists in Poison Information

By Diane Hettrick

When my child was a toddler, I had to call Poison Control so many times that I was afraid I'd be reported to Child Protective Services (CPS).

But we made it through and although I haven't called them for many years, I'm still grateful we have such a wonderful resource.

Even then I didn't realize how highly trained many of the responders were.

Congratulations to our three call center pharmacists who took their exams to become Certified Specialists in Poison Information! 🎉 

Becoming a CSPI requires:
🤓 Over a year of training in treating poisonings (on top of training to be a Doctor of Pharmacy)
🫶 Helping at least 2,000 people who call the Poison Center with a potential poisoning
☎️ The next time you call, you might speak with one of these amazing individuals!!

Washington Poison Center

Independent 501(c)3 nonprofit providing free emergency medical services 24/7/365. 

Call us at 1-800-222-1222.

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Alphabet Resistance May 14, 2026

May 14, 2026 ALPHABET RESISTANCE on the NE 50th St overpass, Seattle.

Showing up and being heard.

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Jobs: WSDOT Field Operations Supervisor (TE4)

WSDOT

Field Operations Supervisor (TE4) 

Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$91,400 – $122,976 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is currently seeking a Field Operations Supervisor (Transportation Engineer 4) to support the agency’s mission of delivering safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation solutions. This position plays a key leadership role in promoting a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative work environment grounded in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Serving as a technical program specialist, this role is integral to highway design, construction, and right of way (ROW) efforts. The incumbent will oversee survey crews and ensure the accurate preparation of survey records and documentation. 

See link for more information, including details on how to apply: LINK

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♟️ Save the Date! The Giant Chess Set Returns to Third Place Commons ♟️

After disappearing during the pandemic, the beloved giant chess set is finally coming back! Join us on Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 10am–12pm as we celebrate the return of this iconic community favorite to Third Place Commons.

Thanks to an incredible team of volunteers, the oversized chess pieces have been fully restored and paired with a newly designed custom board, ready once again for players of all ages and skill levels.

Enjoy a morning of chess, community, and fun featuring:
Parade of Pieces
Chess Costume Pageant
Chess books with Third Place Books
Arts & crafts with Shorelake Arts
Chess workshops and open play
Chess cake showcase

For those interested, participation is encouraged! To make this celebration as grand as the star of the show, please sign up here.

The board is set, the pieces are ready, and the only thing missing is you. Make your move and join us for this special community celebration!

More details here.
Third Place Commons
17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park
Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 10am–12pm

Questions? Email director@thirdplacecommons.org

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Middle School STEM night May 29, 2026

Middle School STEM Night

(Science Technology Engineering Math)

Friday May 29, 2026 from 6-8pm

Kellogg Middle School

16045 25th Ave NE, Shoreline, WA 98155

Join us for the 3rd Annual Middle School STEM Night!

This district-wide event is open to all middle school students and families across Shoreline and Lake Forest Park and is designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and excitement around science, technology, engineering, and math.

Students will have the chance to explore hands-on activities, connect with exhibitors, and learn how STEM connects to future classes, college pathways, and careers.

STEM Night is sponsored & supported by Shoreline PTA Council / Hi-Cap Advocacy Committee, Kellogg Middle School PTSA, and Einstein Middle School PTSA.

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Taste of Spring Fundraiser & Auction at St. Dunstan's to raise funds for their Feeding Ministry

The Taste of Spring Fundraiser & Auction at St. Dunstan's invites you to don your spring hat and garden chic gloves, and come enjoy sparkling drinks with heavy hors d'oeuvres while perusing auction items for the season. 

There will be a silent auction, live auction, raffle items, photos, prizes and more! 

Some of the unique items up for bid include: a sailing excursion, a classic restaurant gift certificate, specialty food items, a handcrafted baby quilt, and hosted meals! Cap the night off by winning a cake from the Queen Mary Tea Room for dessert!

Saturday May 30, 2026 at 5:30pm

St. Dunstan's 722 N 145th St, Shoreline, WA 98133

Doors open at 5:30pm for silent auction bidding and a first round of appetizers. A special program and live auction begin at 7:00pm. 

A suggested donation of $50 will be collected at the event. RSVP by May 26 online via Eventbrite.

The St. Dunstan's Feeding Ministry serves a weekly buffet-style meal on Tuesdays at 5pm and delivers meals to local area permitted camps. Since 2014 over 195,000 meals have been served. All donations are tax-deductible.

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Local student named to Columbia College Spring 2026 Semester Dean's List

COLUMBIA, Mo. (May 13, 2026) - Columbia College recently announced its dean's list for the Spring 2026 Semester (January-May 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.

Among those named to the dean's list is 

• Jessica Cantora Perriatt of Shoreline, who attended Online.

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.

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Jobs: WSDOT Office Engineer – Transportation Projects In-Training (TE3)

WSDOT

Office Engineer – Transportation Projects In-Training (TE3)
Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$82,858 – $111,409 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is currently seeking a motivated Office Engineer (TE3) to join Northwest Region’s Traffic Signal Operations Team. This position will optimize traffic signal operations by identifying and implementing improvements to signal control system software and field device hardware. Traffic signal operations directly affect motorist safety; this work requires sound judgment and adherence to departmental and Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) guidelines. Operate signal control hardware and software and use advanced computer simulation and optimization tools to identify deficiencies and develop solutions. This position will lead and support departmental discussions with local agencies on matters related to cooperative, interagency signal operations.

See link for more information, including details on how to apply: LINK

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Join the Resistance social hour May 17, 2026

Shoreline Solidarity Group

Resistance Social Hour

Sunday May 17, 2026 from 5-7pm

Drumlin Pub

522 NE 165th St, Shoreline WA 98155

Want to get involved but not sure where to start?

Join us for a drink and connect with groups working to fight ICE, protect and strengthen our communities, and build a brighter future.

Learn about the awesome things folks are doing and find ways to plug in.

• More information here
• Email information@freeWAproject.org

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Michael Lee Beggs 1961-2026

Michael Lee Beggs
12/14/1961 - 5/8/2026

Michael Beggs, 64, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Highland Heights, Kentucky.

Michael was born in Seattle, WA to Jerry Beggs and Leta (Dozier) Beggs. He met his wife, Teresa, while attending seminary in Dallas, TX, and they shared 35 years of marriage together. Their sons, Joshua and Jeremy, were born in London, England while Mike was completing his doctoral studies.

Mike graduated from Shoreline High School in Lake Forest Park, Washington. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Seattle Pacific University, a Master of Divinity from the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University, and a PhD in Philosophy on the Authority of the Bible for Theological Education from King's College London.

Michael is survived by wife Teresa (Ellis) Beggs; sons Joshua (Lily) of Alexandria, KY and Jeremiah of Issaquah, WA; granddaughter Evelynn; brother Allen (Pamela), several nieces and nephews, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by parents Jerry and Leta Beggs; sister-in-law Becki Beggs; and grandchild Kai.

Michael served as pastor to several congregations within the United Methodist Church and the Anglican Church in North America. He was a devoted reader whose extensive library was both well loved and frequently used. Mike especially treasured time spent with family and friends and was known for his gift for storytelling, often sharing tales with a wonderful sense of humor and a steady supply of memorable “dad jokes.”

A passionate drummer, Mike enjoyed a wide range of music, particularly classic rock and jazz. He also possessed a deep understanding of theology and valued thoughtful conversations with family, friends, and members of his congregations. Serving local churches brought him great joy and was a privilege he held close to his heart.

Visitation will be Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 1:00 The Mission Cincinnati 2221 Slane, Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45212. The funeral service will follow at 1:30. Burial will be at Saint Mary Cemetery 2201 Dixie Hwy Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Anglican Relief and Development Fund (https://ardf.org/).

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Bluebells blooming at Twin Ponds Park

Photo by Isis Charest

Bluebells blooming at Twin Ponds Park 155th Ave NE and 1st Ave NE in Shoreline.

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Shorewood Boys Soccer Advance To District Final, Going To State

Shorewood

Shorewood high school boys varsity soccer team put on a redoubtable performance last Tuesday night in clear, cool conditions at the 3A District 1 playoff semi-final match of the league postseason soccer tournament. 

They had a grind against a tough Snohomish team in the quarter-final match last Saturday, but prevailed with tactical nous and by taking opportune chances. In the semi-final, they faced #5 seed Lynnwood at Shoreline Stadium, a familiar league foe. 

Shorewood wrapped up the Wesco South league title on May 1st with a record of 11-0-0, qualified as the #1 seed for the District playoffs, with the best RPI ranking in District 1. 

But #5 seed Lynnwood did not care one whit about seedings nor RPI as they knocked out favored Wesco North champs Monroe three days ago, 2-1 in double OT. And they brought that same fearless attitude against Shorewood at Shoreline Stadium, in a see-saw battle. 

Rays ace striker #10, lethal in the 18-yard box, started fast and drew first blood within the first two minutes, 1-0. But the Royals did not cower and crumble, but instead decided to go for broke, throwing caution to the wind. Lynnwood struck back, breaching the usually impregnable Shorewood defense in the seventh minute with the equalizer, 1-1. 

Rays shook off the setback, and responded with their usual methodical play. But Royals had taken a page from the Snohomish defensive playbook, and stymied the Rays attacks, with their GK #1 pulling off some superb saves. At the half, they had the Rays deadlocked at 1-1, all square - an improvement on two lopsided defeats during the league season.

In the second half, Lynnwood decided to come out as the aggressor, with the audacity to go on the attack, and within three minutes rocked Shorewood by taking the lead, 2-1. Rays had rarely trailed, and this was a gut punch, that had the Rays on their heels (if rays had any heels). 

Did the Rays have the fortitude to come back from being stunned? Shorewood awakened from their torpor, and eight minutes later, on a fast break clawed their way back with a brace from star striker #10 equalizing, 2-2. Momentum ebbed and flowed, but Rays seemed to regain their swagger as they reasserted their normal attacking ferocity, while GK #22 kept the Royals at bay. 

Invoking the mantra of their hitherto perfect, unbeaten season, striker #9 conjured some magic and fired a laser into the bottom right corner, 3-2. Just after the hour mark, Rays had rebounded just in the nick of time, closing the game out, they live to fight another day. 

As the final whistle blows, there was more relief than joy, for a hard-earned victory that tested their nerve, as Shorewood has advanced to the District final, and qualified for State! 

Notwithstanding that they are aiming to match their predecessors with a District championship, but also to extend the streak to four District titles in a row. But Coach Warner has only one incantation: One Game At A Time.

Shorecrest

At the other semi-final of the District 1 playoffs, #10 Edmonds-Woodway pushed #3 Shorecrest to the brink, tied 1-1 after regulation and overtime, ending in PKs, 5-4 in favor of the Scots. 

In the 3rd/4th playoffs, #8 Snohomish edged Wesco North champ #4 Monroe, 1-0; #2 Mount Vernon overcame #6 Everett 2-0. 

So the final matchup (for 1st/2nd) is Shorewood vs Shorecrest, on Saturday 5/16, both qualify for State, win or lose. 

3rd place matchup is Snohomish vs Edmonds-Woodway, 4th place matchup is Mount Vernon vs Lynnwood, both on Thursday 5/14, the winners qualify for State. 

With qualification assured, the final should be carefree and free-flowing. Whereas the consolation matches will have more urgency and exigency as it’s win or go home. All matches will take place at Shoreline Stadium, so this is your chance to still go witness the exuberance of youth and the purity of sports.

--TCA

Shoreline Stadium is located at 400 NE 185th St, Shoreline, WA 98155

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Recycling Collection Event for Lake Forest Park and Kenmore May 16, 2026

Rain barrel and compost bin sales
$25 each - cash only

The Cities of Lake Forest Park and Kenmore are partnering for a combined Recycling Collection Event! 

Take a look at the Event Flyer to view the full list of what you can and cannot bring. Please be aware fees do apply for certain items. 

The collection event will take place Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 9:00am to 3:00pm at a NEW Location: Kenmore Park and Ride and Heron Haven Kenmore Women’s Shelter

7346 NE Bothell Way, Kenmore, WA 98028

!! Please note that the Kenmore Park and Ride location entrance will only be accessible on Bothell Way from the East !!

While supplies last, for cash only, you can purchase a Rain Barrel or Compost Bin for $25!

Items you can bring (please view the event flyer for full details and information):

• Tires*, Propane Tanks*, Appliances and Scrap Metal*, Porcelain Toilets & Sinks*, Lead Acid & Household Batteries, Mattresses*, Paper Shredding (4 box limit), Clean Bulky Wood, and Refrigerators & Freezers*.
• *Fees apply

Please note: No flat beds or dump trucks allowed. We reserve the right to refuse over-sized, commercial, contaminated, excessive, or unacceptable loads.

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Stand up and be counted - sign waving continues on Aurora Sunday

War Cost = $2 Billion Per Day
Photo by Pam Cross

By Pamela Mieth

Social Justice Sundays sign-waving, this Sunday, May 17, 2026 at the Shoreline-Edmonds line is an opportunity to stand up and make your voice heard on so many issues facing this country.

It is also a good time to honor our men and women in the Armed Forces - all active-duty, Reserve, and National Guard service members - coming just after Armed Forces Day on Saturday.

As the president continues his chaotic policy on war with Iraq using amateur negotiators and with folks like Putin whispering in his ear while selling drones to our adversary, our troops deserve to know we have their backs and are calling for them to be in harm's way only in our national interest, not narcissistic gamesmanship.

Bring a sign or just yourself (some will be available to borrow). Participants should be committed to peaceful protest. Non-perishable food and toiletry items will be accepted for donation to a local organization assisting those in need.

Join Everyday Activists (@everydayshoreline.bsky.social) this Sunday or another, with sign-wavings scheduled every Sunday in May, 1-2 pm at the intersection of Aurora Avenue North and N 205th St.

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Chennai Cafe owners Official Response Regarding Current Status

On Friday May 8, 2026 we published a story about the Health Department closing the Chennai Cafe (read it here). The owners have responded with their current status.

Chennai Cafe

---
As owners of the business, I would like to clarify the facts for anyone reading this.

The Chennai Cafe is temporarily closed as we are currently undergoing an extensive commercial kitchen remodel and equipment upgrade, which includes addressing the refrigeration concerns mentioned in the health department notice.

Regarding permits: We submitted our transfer of ownership application in January 2026 and are working through the city's standard processing timeline. The refrigeration equipment that was flagged is being replaced as part of our planned kitchen upgrade.

We are handling all regulatory requirements properly and working closely with the health department to ensure full compliance before reopening. We look forward to welcoming our community back soon with an upgraded kitchen and enhanced operations.

Thank you for your patience during this transition.

--praveena sambasivadoss

The Chennai Cafe is located at 14553 Bothell Way NE, Shoreline WA 98155

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Five weeks of evening and night time temporary lane closures on SR 522 in Kenmore

Overnight lane closures planned on Bothell Way

Beginning Monday, May 18, 2026 Sound Transit will conduct two months of evening and night time lane closures on SR 522 (NE Bothell Way) between the 61st Ave NE and 80th Ave NE intersections. This work will take place on weekdays, between 6pm and 6am.

Traffic lane shifts will change as work progresses. Signage will be present to indicate all lane closures. This is not a full closure, so the road will remain open to traffic.

The evening and night time work will allow the contractor to construct water and utility infrastructure at the Stride station locations in Kenmore. This work must be done at night, as daytime work hours are not long enough to set up and complete the work.

Weekdays: 6pm- 6am
May 18 - July 31

Steel road plates will temporarily be used during this time.

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Jobs: WSDOT IT System Administrator – Senior/Specialist

WSDOT

IT System Administrator – Senior/Specialist
Shoreline, WA – Headquarters
$97,393 – $130,898 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking an IT Systems Administrator (Senior/Specialist) for a vacancy in Shoreline, WA. The position’s duties include Windows server administration, Active Directory administration, server backup and restore, application management, VMWare, cloud services, network diagnostics and troubleshooting, and operational technology management in an active directory environment. A strong candidate will possess advanced systems and network administration expertise, strong troubleshooting skills, and experience supporting complex and mission-critical environments.

See link for more information, including details on how to apply: LINK

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Jobs: North City Water District - Executive Assistant / Operational Support Person

North City Water District

Executive Assistant / Operational Support Person

Hourly Wage:  $40.00 to $48.66/hour depending on experience

Resumes Due: on or before Thursday May 21, 2026
First Review/Interviews: the week of May 26 and June 1, 2026

Why Work for North City Water District?

Founded in 1931, North City Water District currently serves approximately 27,000 people within the cities of Shoreline and Lake Forest Park, covering a roughly 5 square mile area. As a public water district, we operate independently from the Cities of Lake Forest Park and Shoreline.

Our District is governed by a three member Board of Commissioners elected by the voters in our service area. We employ a variety of professional staff including civil engineers, accountants, operations personnel, and administrative staff, all overseen by a District Manager. Together, our mission is to provide high quality drinking water to our community in a manner that promotes conservation, maintains customers’ trust and protects their financial investment in the District.

North City Water District believes our employees are the key to our success; we work hard to ensure a strong, supportive, team environment. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, and a drug, alcohol and tobacco/nicotine-free work environment. 

Full-time employees receive the following benefits:

• Competitive Wages
• Employee Assistance Counseling Training
• Optional participation in State of Washington Department of Retirement Systems Deferred Compensation Program
• Participation in State of Washington’s Health Care Authority’s Medical and Dental Benefit plans
• Participation in State of Washington Department of Retirement Systems Plan
• Vacation and Sick Leave Programs
• VEBA Medical Savings Account

Read the Job Description >

Download the Employment Application >

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Nominations open for Verity Credit Union's Grants for Growth

Verity team with past recipients

Verity Credit Union, a $735 million asset financial institution based in Seattle and focused on socially responsible banking, is accepting nominations for its annual Grants for Growth program at a time of great need for many community-rooted organizations and microbusinesses. 

A champion of building wealth for underserved individuals and businesses, Verity will provide $50,000 in unrestricted funding to selected Washington nonprofits and microbusinesses that strengthen underserved communities. 

Makini's Kitchen was a 2025 recipient

In 2025, Verity’s Grants for Growth program awarded grants to 16 nonprofits and microbusinesses throughout the region.

Applications to become a 2026 grant awardee are being accepted through May 31, 2026, in honor of Small Business Month. Membership is not required, and prior applicants are welcome. 

Submissions will be evaluated by a Verity review committee focusing on alignment with Verity’s values, potential community impact, and financial need.

Verity is proud to award five $5,000 grants for each category below to support the microbusinesses and nonprofits making a difference in our community: 

1. Microbusiness Grant: For microbusiness owners with under $1M in annual revenue and fewer than 10 employees, operating for fewer than five years. Priority applicants include BIPOC-, women-, LGBTQ+-, and veteran-owned businesses.
2. Nonprofit Grant: For grassroots 501(c)(3) organizations with assets under $250,000, led by or serving historically marginalized communities, with a focus on social justice, environmental justice, equity, or financial wellness.

Funding is flexible, and recipients may use grants where they are needed most, with no spending limitations.

"Grants for Growth exists because we believe the businesses and organizations rooted in the communities that make up the fabric of the greater Seattle area deserve access to real investment,” said Tonita Webb, CEO of Verity Credit Union.

“The businesses and nonprofits we fund through Grants for Growth are the heartbeat of their communities. When a microbusiness expands, when a grassroots nonprofit deepens its reach, the whole community feels it. Verity is honored to play a part in that, and deeply committed to continuing this work for years to come."

Beyond direct funding, grant recipients have access to ongoing relationships and advocacy, including increased visibility, financial coaching, and additional Verity resources such as business loans. 

Unlike traditional grant programs that can be exclusionary and overly formal, Verity's Grants for Growth is straightforward and welcoming by design. As a community development credit union, Verity prioritizes authenticity, transparency, and access to real people behind the brand.

Eligible microbusinesses and nonprofits are encouraged to apply by May 31 at this link.

Verity Chief Impact Strategy Officer Ziquora Banks
and Community Impact Manager Mandy Lee 

Verity Credit Union is one of Washington State’s longest-standing credit unions, putting people, the planet, and prosperity for all above the bottom line. Our mission is to make meaningful, positive, and lasting change by partnering with our members and communities to co-create solutions. 

As a socially responsible financial institution, about 87% of our deposits support the local economy and members with loans, big and small, to improve the well-being of businesses and individuals, especially those who have been historically left out of the financial system. 

We are one of a few financial institutions with a Black woman CEO and a leadership team and board that identifies predominantly as female, allowing us to embody the change we’re working towards. Together, we can create stronger, healthier, more sustainable communities by making people-centric decisions.

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La Guitarra Española - Music from Spain’s Master Composers for Guitar - free program at Senior Activity Center May 19, 2026

Guitarra Española | Music from Spain’s Master Composers for Guitar

Tuesday May 19, 2026 from 1:30 – 3:30pm

Senior Activity Center 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline WA 98155

Free

In this program, guitarist Reyes González will perform selected pieces from the guitar and piano repertoire that imbue the listener with old world characteristics rooted in European-Spanish-Iberian tradition of charm, passion and soul. 

Join us for an afternoon of classical guitar, featuring the music of Spanish master composers Joaquín Rodrigo, Isaac Albéniz, Francisco Tárrega, Fernando Sor and more.

This program is in partnership with KCLS

Free - Call or visit the senior center 206-365-1536

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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Flue

 

Cartoon by Whitney Potter

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Demystifying Your Medical Bills May 14, 2026 at Senior Activity Center

Demystifying Your Medical Bills 

Are you confused by your medical bills? This session will help you understand them and learn how to get errors corrected when they occur. 

Presenter Jim Becker recently retired from a career developing and supporting healthcare software systems, and his presentation on demystifying the medical bills which are generated by such systems has been well-received at KCLS libraries, senior centers, and senior living facilities in the Seattle area.

WHEN: Thursday May 14, 2026 from 1:00 – 2:00pm
COST: Free
LOCATION: Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center, 18560 1st Ave NE
REGISTRATION: Call or visit the senior center 206-365-1536

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Shoreline offers after-hours virtual appointments for permits on June 3, 2026

The City of Shoreline is offering off hours appointments for permitting counseling.

"We know it’s hard to get permitting help during the workday. 

"That’s why we’re piloting a virtual after‑hours appointments on June 3, 2026 from 6–8pm."

Bring your project questions and get guidance from city staff before you begin. 

Sign up here

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Jobs: WSDOT Office Engineer – Transportation Projects In-Training (TE3)

WSDOT

Office Engineer – Transportation Projects In-Training (TE3)
Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$82,858 – $111,409 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is currently seeking a motivated Office Engineer (TE3) to join Northwest Region’s Traffic Signal Operations Team. This position will optimize traffic signal operations by identifying and implementing improvements to signal control system software and field device hardware. Traffic signal operations directly affect motorist safety; this work requires sound judgment and adherence to departmental and Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) guidelines. Operate signal control hardware and software and use advanced computer simulation and optimization tools to identify deficiencies and develop solutions. This position will lead and support departmental discussions with local agencies on matters related to cooperative, interagency signal operations.

See link for more information, including details on how to apply: LINK

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Flags at Half-staff May 15, 2026 for Peace Officers Memorial Day

Flag Lowering - May 15, 2026 (Peace Officers Memorial Day)

Washington state and United States flags at all state agency facilities will be lowered to half-staff on Friday, May 15, 2026, in recognition of the Annual Peace Officers Memorial Day.

Flags should remain at half-staff until close of business or sunset on Friday, May 15, 2026.

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

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Calvin Presbyterian Free Community Advocacy Dinner features NUHSA on May 18, 2026

Calvin Presbyterian Church is hosting another Community Advocacy Dinner on May 18, 2026 at 6pm. We will be joined by NUHSA, the North Urban Human Services Alliance, and hear more about what they do and how we might get involved in the work they are doing here in Shoreline and beyond. 

That evening's menu will include BBQ ribs and chicken, pasta salad, and a special dessert.

Come learn how you can help make Shoreline a better place for all those who call it home. 

Our dinners will take a break for the Summer but return in September.

Calvin Presbyterian Church 18826 3rd Ave NW, Shoreline WA 98177

RSVP to norm@calvinpc.org

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