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Thursday, August 31, 2023

Jobs: WSDOT Design Project Team Lead (TE3)

WSDOT
Design Project Team Lead (TE3)
Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$76,179 – $102,475 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking an experienced engineer to serve as a Design Project Team Lead responsible for delivering assigned highway projects within scope, schedule, and budget. In this role, you will also supervise engineering employees while aiding their development to become future leaders of WSDOT. 

The Design Project Team Lead has a high impact to WSDOT's mission to provide and support safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options to improve livable communities and economic vitality for people and businesses. If you are passionate about leading teams, project delivery, and helping individuals develop and grow, we have an excellent opportunity for you and encourage you to apply!

Job description and application


Compass Housing: Pew Charitable Trust says that homelessness is a housing problem

Two Worlds. Photo copyright Marc Weinberg

From Compass Housing Alliance

You've heard us say this a few times over the years, but the Pew Charitable Trust has just confirmed this with a new study just released in August.

The study shows how housing costs drive levels of homelessness and the cities with the higher costs of living have higher cases of homelessness.

"A new analysis of rent prices and homelessness in American cities demonstrates the strong connection between the two: homelessness is high in urban areas where rents are high, and homelessness rises when rents rise."

Read the full article here



Sno-Isle Genealogy Meeting Wednesday: Ever wonder what gets tossed into a privy?

Wicker's Building, Heritage Park, Lynnwood
Photo from wikimedia commons
Sno-Isle Genealogy hybrid meeting Wednesday, September 6, 2023

Ever wonder what gets tossed into a privy (outhouse)? or how this relates to genealogy? 

Megan Caves' thesis research weaves together multiple stories of indigenous and Euro-American families who surrounded and interacted with an archaeological deposit originally excavated and analyzed in 2008 from Arlington, WA. 

Her reanalysis of the archaeological assemblage employs a biographical approach which looks at how the "lifetimes" of artifacts discarded in the privy are connected to families who owned and occupied the site between 1890 and 1940. 

This is the topic of a presentation at the Sno-Isle Genealogy Society meeting on Wednesday September 6, 2023, to be held 7 to 9pm at the Wicker's Bldg, 19921 Poplar Way, Heritage Park, Lynnwood

You may attend in person or via zoom at https://bit.ly/SnoIsleSept23 

  • Passcode: 436122
  • Meeting ID: 854 1305 2523

Megan Caves has worked as an archaeologist in the Pacific Northwest since 2018 and just received her Master's Degree in anthropology.


Jobs: WSDOT Acquisition and Relocation Specialist (PAS4)

WSDOT
Acquisition and Relocation Specialist (PAS4)
Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$65,635 – $88,210 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is currently seeking a real estate professional to operate with limited supervision, managing acquisition and relocation assignments per a defined schedule and in compliance with regulatory laws and policies. 

The purpose of this position is to, in compliance with the Uniform Relocation Act, investigate, negotiate, and conclude complex transactions with landowners concerning purchase, lease, rental or use of real property and property rights. 

The successful candidate appointed to these positions will support WSDOT’s Fish Passage program, working directly with multiple project engineers and members of their design teams to assist in identifying the property needs for WSDOT projects. This unique position will serve a vital role in support of WSDOT’s mission to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options to improve communities and economic vitality.

Job description and application


UPDATES: Scene on the Sound: Under tow in the darkness of our thunderstorm

Photo by Jan Hansen

Story and photos by Jan Hansen

Photo by Jan Hansen

Gray ships on a gray canvas and the first time that I have seen a Naval warship under tow. The ship in tow is number 53. 

This is the USS Mobile Bay (CG 53) Ticonderoga class guided missile cruiser under tow by the salvage vessel USNS Grasp (T-ARS 51).

Photo by Jan Hansen

The Mobile Bay was decommissioned on August 10th in San Diego and is being bought to the Navy’s Inactive Ships facility in Bremerton, Washington where they will be in a Logistic Support Asset (LSA) status. (See article from Fleet Command)  

Updated 8-31-2023 Thanks to John Slomnicki and Earl Thompson for the updated identification.



Party declarations certified for Washington’s 2024 Presidential Primary

OLYMPIA — As required by state law, the political party declarations that voters must sign when participating in the 2024 Presidential Primary were certified Tuesday morning by Secretary of State Steve Hobbs.

Washington’s voters do not register as members of a political party. 

However, state law RCW 29A.56.050 requires voters to declare on their ballot envelopes whether their party of preference is Republican or Democratic to have their votes counted in the Presidential Primary. 

The voted ballot inside the envelope will only count toward the candidates of the party declared on the envelope.

No other election in Washington’s four-year cycle requires this type of party declaration.

Under RCW 29A.56.031, each party must provide its list of potential presidential nominees for the ballot by 63 days before the primary, which is scheduled for March 12. Once submitted by the party, state law forbids changes to the candidate list for the ballot.

The declaration language on the ballot envelope for each party is identical except for the party name. Voters will choose between these options:

  • “I declare that my party preference is the Democratic Party and I will not participate in the nomination process of any other political party for the 2024 Presidential election.”
  • “I declare that my party preference is the Republican Party and I will not participate in the nomination process of any other political party for the 2024 Presidential election.”

A voter’s party declaration is accessible in the public voter files for 60 days following the election under Washington Administrative Code 434-219-330.

Washington’s Office of the Secretary of State oversees a number of areas within state government, including managing state elections, registering corporations and charities, and governing the use of the state flag and state seal.


LFP Garden Club: Good Bugs and Bad Bugs presentation September 12, 2023

Sharon Collman, WSU Emeritus Professor
On September 12, 2023 at 10:30am the LFPGC will host Sharon Collman, who will talk about “Good Bugs and Bad Bugs”

The topic will cover some of the common pests (aphids and other suckers, chewers like caterpillars and cutworms, slugs, etc.) and the insects that attack the pests. Integrating the good with the bad so they’ll know what to look for.

Business Meeting at 9:30am and speaker at 10:30am in LFP Town Center upper level stage area.
Located at Bothell and Ballinger Way NE in LFP.

All are welcome to attend the meeting. We ask that after you attend two free meetings that you join the club for $35.00 a year membership fee.


Shorewood Cheer excels at Cheerleadership Camp

Each summer, the Association of Washington Student Leaders and the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) pair up to host CheerLeadership Camp at Central Washington University. 

Shorewood Cheer represented the Shoreline School District well this summer. 

Focused on the goal of coming out stronger and better, the team not only did that, but came home with some hardware to prove it. 

Shorewood Cheer was awarded TOP TEAM CHEER, TOP CHEER CHANT and the HERKIE TEAM AWARD. 

The Herkie award is given to the team that best exemplifies leadership and spirit while at camp; among the 30 teams in attendance, Shorewood was selected for this honor. 

The team also had two athletes, Audrey Eng and Ameila Uran, chosen as ALL AMERICAN, an honor that calls out the best cheerleaders in the nation. Along with being noticed for their impressive skill set, Shorewood Cheer was also awarded the Spirit Stick and received Leadership awards all four nights of camp. 

Over half the team is new this year and have proven they are a team to watch. Go Stormarys!

--  Brianne Sturm, Shorewood Cheer Advisor

Briarcrest Neighborhood Picnic returns after a three year 'pandemic pause'

A lovely day in Hamlin Park

Story by Jean Hilde
Photos by Jean Hilde and Sara Kaye

On August 27, 2023 the Briarcrest Neighborhood Picnic returned to Hamlin Park after a three-year "pandemic pause" and everyone had a wonderful time!

Hamlin Park is a beautiful setting for a picnic

Estimated guest count was between 60 and 70, loads of kids, and a very diverse crowd including new folks and returnees. 

Fabulous food!

Guests enjoyed free hot dogs and burgers (beef and veggie options) provided by the Briarcrest Neighborhood Association and the City of Shoreline alongside a fabulous potluck of neighbor-shared favorites. 

An Ice Cream Feed (thanks to Shoreline Christian Reformed Church) and the Celestial Cake Walk had lots of eager participants. 


Guests viewed the design for the new Briarcrest Park, enjoyed a "Happy 75th Birthday, Briarcrest!" display complete with a history of the 'hood and original pics of many neighborhood homes from the 1940s.

History of the neighborhood

They chatted with City of Shoreline staff about the City's new Surface Water and Comprehensive Plans, and learned how to get earthquake-ready from the BNA's Emergency Prep team.
 
Hopscotch and other games

A great time was had by all! Hope to see everyone again next year!


Destinations: BrickCon LEGO® convention September 9 - 10, 2023 in Bellevue

BrickCon 2023 Annual LEGO® art exhibition September 9-10, 2023

BrickCon, the premier LEGO® convention of the Pacific Northwest, is ready to open the doors for its 22nd annual event. 

This year, nearly 500 convention attendees from all over the world will show off hundreds of LEGO® models. Anyone who is a LEGO® enthusiast is invited to visit the public exhibition and see the amazing creations attendees have brought. 

Tickets are on sale now for several sessions Saturday, Sept. 9 and Sunday, Sept. 10 at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue 11100 NE 6th St, Bellevue Washington 98004

In addition, there will be special autograph sessions with the cast of the upcoming season of the LEGO® Masters television show. 

Also more space has been added for the very popular Battle Bricks tournament, where LEGO® robots square off in an arena, similar to the television show Battle Bots©. As an added bonus, the real-life robot Big Dill will be on display during the competition.

Traditionally, BrickCon is held at the Seattle Center. However, this year, a change was made to accommodate an increase in exhibits, attendees, vendors, activities and public visitors. 

"This year will be a new experience for everyone and we look forward to welcoming the public to this new venue," said Steve Walker, executive director of BrickCon. "We encourage everyone to bring their friends, family, coworkers, or anyone who loves LEGO®. There are some really nice exhibits this year.”

Eastside CHADD virtual meeting September 14, 2023

Eastside CHADD (Children and Adults with Attentional Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder)

FREE virtual meeting 
Thursday, September 14, 2023 
7 to 8:30pm PDT

Best Practices for Positive Behavior Support for Students with ADHD

Presenters: Dr. Jaimee Kidder, Special Education Program Improvement, Program Supervisor, OSPI and Scott Raub, Special Education Policy and Community Engagement, OSPI

Students with ADHD deserve effective and evidence-based support to help them thrive in school settings while addressing their unique needs in a positive way. 

This presentation will share the fundamentals of behavior teaching and learning, describe connections between positive behavior support and special education processes such as the Individualized Education Program (IEP), and explore strategies for collaboration between parents/students and educators to develop student-centered and effective supports for behavior learning.

This Zoom presentation is FREE, but you must register here but you must register here (http://www.eastside-chadd.org/Meetings) so we can send you a Zoom link on the day of the presentation.

For questions or more information Send email to: eastside@CHADD.org


Pickleball is growing in Shoreline

Photo credit Pickleheads
By Brandon Mackie

If you haven't heard of pickleball yet, it's time to get in on the game that's taking Shoreline by storm. 

Pickleball, a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, is rapidly gaining traction in the community.

Whether you're a seasoned athlete or someone looking for a new and exciting way to stay active, pickleball offers a fun and accessible option for players of all abilities.

Photo credit Pickleheads
Pickleball is played on a playing surface slightly smaller than a traditional tennis court. During matches, players will hit a small, perforated plastic ball over a low net with large, paddle-shaped rackets, in the hope that their opponents will be unable to return it.

Pickleball can be played in a singles or doubles format, and is known for being less strenuous than the likes of tennis. What’s more, because of the simple rules and low-impact gameplay, newcomers often find it easy to learn how to play pickleball.

The sport provides an opportunity for players to challenge themselves physically while also enjoying social interactions on the court. It's not just about hitting the ball back and forth – it's about strategy, agility, and having a blast while doing it.

Photo credit Pickleheads
The year 2022 saw a remarkable 36.5 million pickleball players take to courts across the US, solidifying the game’s status as the country’s fastest-growing sport.

For those eager to jump into the world of pickleball, there are numerous options available in Shoreline. Local community centers, sports clubs, and recreational facilities have recognized the demand for pickleball and are offering classes and open play sessions.

If you’re currently living in Shoreline, here’s some of the best pickleball courts near you.

Shoreline Park Pickleball and Tennis Courts is among the most popular pickleball venues in Shoreline. The park offers four pristine asphalt courts with permanent markings and portable nets, all free of charge. It also includes essential amenities like restrooms, advanced lighting, and a water station. The courts can be reserved in advance.
Photo credit Pickleheads

Hillwood Park is a premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts, with four outdoor concrete courts adorned with permanent lines. While players need to bring their own net, on-site restrooms and water access make for a comfortable playing experience. Best of all, the courts can be used free of charge.

Shoreview Park, near Shoreline Community College, has six outdoor concrete courts. The lines are overlaid on a tennis court, so the net is a little taller than a normal pickleball net. The facility includes amenities like restrooms, water, and wheelchair accessibility. The courts can be reserved. The courts are free
Photo credit Pickleheads

Richmond Beach Community Park has four outdoor concrete courts. The lines are permanent, but you'll need to bring your own net. The courts are free.

Twin Ponds has two outdoor asphalt courts. The lines are permanent, but you'll need to bring your own net. The courts are free. Amenities include restrooms.

In Lake Forest Park, Horizon View Park has one outdoor hard court. The lines are overlaid on a tennis court, so the net is a little taller than a normal pickleball net. The court is free.

Dale Turner Family YMCA  Dale Turner YMCA has three indoor courts so players can enjoy matches rain or shine. Courts cannot be reserved, but there is open, drop-in play M-F, 7-9 am for members and guests. Saturday and Sunday open play also available.

Court reservations can be made, but a membership fee is required.
Photo credit Pickleheads
With three indoor courts, Spartan Recreation Center is another great place for a game. The courts feature permanent lines, and while you'll need to bring your own net, modern lighting ensures thrilling matches any time of day. A one-time fee is necessary for access.

With pickleball growing in Shoreline, now is the perfect time to dip your toes into the excitement. So, grab your paddle, join the pickleball revolution today, and discover the fun, fitness, and friendships that come with this dynamic sport.

Updated info on Dale Turner Y from reader comment


Wednesday, August 30, 2023

Goats on Parade

Despite the less than perfect air quality on Saturday, August 26, 2023 the Earthcraft Services goat herd enjoyed their chance to once again dine on a diet of weeds at 'Midvale Gardens' located at 192nd and the Interurban Trail in Shoreline.

If you missed this opportunity, there will be another chance.

The next 'goat day' is tentatively scheduled for the third Saturday in September.

Shoreline Police Officer Mainaga makes friends with the goats.

Ed Portnow (goat herd owner) explained the advantages of using goats to clear overgrown properties.

The herd is funded by donations through Diggin' Shoreline

Derek and Diggin' Shoreline set up a Goat Fund Me Diggin' Shoreline site to raise money from the public.

--Story and photos by Derek Creisler


FULL: Shoreline / Lake Forest Park senior citizens - Build a free GO Bag September 28, 2023 at the Senior Activity Center

Seniors can build a free GO Bag
THIS EVENT IS FULL and registration has been closed.

========================================

The Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center will host a 3-hour Emergency Preparedness event, which will include a 2-hour presentation by Kevin Lowery, Director of the Northshore Emergency Management Coalition (NEMCo).

Learn what to do in case of a major disaster such as volcanic eruption, earthquake, or major fire across our community.

Following Kevin’s presentation, you will be provided a free packet and a list of contents. You will proceed through an assembly line, stuffing your backpack with important items to help keep you safe for up to three days. 

You will also receive a brochure, noting additional specific needs that adults 50 and over may need in an emergency..

Date: Thursday, September 28, 2023
Time: 1:00pm – 4:00pm
Cost: Free
Where: Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center, 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline WA 98155

Open to: Adults age 65 and over who are residents of Shoreline or Lake Forest Park

*We are limited to 70 backpacks
One backpack per person/no exceptions

Must register in advance by calling 206-365-1536

Correction: Thursday, not Friday


SAGE events at the Shoreline Teen Center this fall


Sexuality and Gender Equality Club Fall Events
  • September 8th Back to School BBQ
  • October 13th Masquerade Tea Party
  • November 17th Teen Night Trivia
  • December 8th Cookie Decorating
All Events happen on Friday at 4:00pm at the Shoreline Teen Center during our drop-in teen center hours.

More details for each event can be found in any of the following ways:
Email mhale@shorelinewa.gov with any questions.

The Teen Center is located at 16554 Fremont Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133


Obituary: Ed Cruver 1938 - 2023

Edward Lawrence Cruver
July 1, 1938-August 12, 2023

Edward Lawrence Cruver passed away at the age of 85 on August 12, 2023, after a brief illness.

Ed was born in Tacoma, Washington to Earle and Ferne Cruver. He grew up with his siblings Cami and Jim in a bungalow across the street from Greenlake in Seattle, Washington. He graduated from Lincoln High School. He was involved with the Guilio Theatre School of dance as a teen, playing piano for classes and dancing in productions. 

He loved cars and even picked up a trophy driving his Volvo sports car in a race. After many years as a resident of Seattle he, along with his wife, JonAnn, moved to the City of Shoreline. He loved taking part in the community. One of his favorites was playing the pianos scattered about the community, making it a goal to play a jazz tune at each location.

In his early years, he experienced perilous winds as he worked as a part of the construction crew building the top of the Space Needle. An accomplished jazz pianist, he spent his life sharing his talents with others wherever he was needed. 

Ed attended Central Washington University, where he earned his B.A. in Sociology and met his wife to whom he would be married for 56 years. He also earned his Masters from the University of Utah. Ed spent his career helping others in employment security for both government and private organizations, changing lives by giving aid and advice to the vulnerable.

He traveled the world with his wife, visiting China, Britain, Ireland, Spain, and France. He dearly loved caring for his three grandchildren. He was an advocate for several political issues. Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center benefited from his volunteer service; he enjoyed attending exercise classes. Ed loved his wife and family more than anything and was happiest in their company.

Ed was a friend to everyone, quickly making bonds with people he met from around the world to the staff at the counter of Little Coney at Golden Gardens where he especially loved to get a pre-walk affogato. The respect and interest he showed for all was an inspiration to many and is one of his greatest legacies.

He is survived by his wife, two children, and three grandchildren.

In his memory, suggested donations to the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center, 18560 1st Ave NE, #1, Shoreline, Washington, 98155. Also, in his memory, go get an affogato at Little Coney at Golden Gardens and take a walk on the beach, if you can. That was his favorite thing to do.


Shorewood Select Hoop tryouts coming up on September 11 and 13, 2023

The Shorewood Select Hoops (SSH) will be holding its 2023-24 tryouts for Shoreline area boy basketball players in grades 4-8 on Monday, Sept. 11 and Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. 

Players can go to both tryouts, but only one is required.

Here are the times and locations for each grade level:
  • 4th grade: 5:30-7pm at Echo Lake Elementary, 345 Wallingford Ave. N.
  • 5th grade: 5:30-7pm at Meridian Park Elementary, 17077 Meridian Ave. N.
  • 6th grade: 7:15-8:45pm at Meridian Park Elementary.
  • 7th grade and 8th grade: 7-8:30pm at Einstein Middle Schoo, 19343 3rd Ave. NW.
More information here or e-mail your contact information to thunderbirdselecthoops@gmail.com.

SSH is a developmental select feeder program for boys who will attend Shorewood High School. Established in 2007, Shorewood Select Hoops is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization that provides an opportunity for boys in grades 4-8 to develop basketball skills and to play in a competitive environment.

Tryouts are free with no commitment. A SSH board member will be hand to answer any questions for interested families. Selected players will practice at Shoreline gyms twice a week while games and tournaments will be held around the Puget Sound area during the weekend.


Icebreaker Healy back in the Arctic

Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Edge stood bear watch from the bridge wing, a critical safety component for working at high latitudes. Photo courtesy Healy crew.

Let's go to the Arctic and check back in with the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy!


The Healy crew and scientists have been working hard over the past few weeks. They have been conducting some interesting science missions in the Beaufort Sea.


Working in cooperation with the Office of Naval Research (ONR) they offloaded a diverse collection of equipment on to an ice floe carefully selected for its size and composition of multi-year ice. 


The ONR Arctic Mobile Observing System program focuses on developing technologies for making continuous, long-term scientific observations of the Arctic marine environment. 

The blue and white ice is a function of multi-year ice

The sea ice covers in the Arctic Ocean is a critical environmental parameter that impacts maritime operations, and more direct observations of Arctic sea ice are needed to enable a better understanding of the changes going on in the Arctic.

A bear showed up the day after the crew finished on the ice

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy is homeported in Puget Sound.


School starts next week - LFP PD reminds you to pay attention to your driving

Just a friendly reminder that the upcoming school term will start next Wednesday, September 6, 2023. 

Take note that school zone cameras will be in operation from Monday to Friday, specifically during the hours of 7:30am to 9:30am and 2:30pm to 4:30pm. 

On Wednesdays with early release, the camera times will be adjusted to 7:30am to 9:30am and 1:00pm to 2:30pm.

We kindly urge you to exercise extra caution when traveling in school zones, keeping a vigilant eye out for pedestrians and buses. 

Please anticipate some potential delays during the drop-off and pick-up times.

We greatly appreciate your patience and your commitment to ensuring the safety of our children. 

While we may not be able to respond regularly to social media posts, please feel free to reach out at 206-364-8216 if you have any inquiries. Thank you.

--Lake Forest Park Police Department


Frank Workman: A high school senior's letter to Mom and Dad

Frank Workman
Frank Workman was the longtime voice of Shoreline sports, serving as announcer for soccer, football, basketball, baseball, wrestling, and volleyball. 

He’s now retired and living in San Diego (to be near his granddaughters).

A high school senior's letter to Mom and Dad

By Frank Workman


Dear Mom and Dad –

You know how you like to write me a letter before my sports seasons begin, offering me encouragement, advice and good wishes?

This season I want to turn the tables and write a letter to you, especially since this is my senior year, and likely to be my last time playing organized sports.

I know there have been times before, during, or after my games when you’ve said or done something that has annoyed me. I realize you’ve meant no harm, but I want to spell things out for you so the memories we’ll take from this last year of my playing ball will be good ones.

First, I want to thank you for respecting my wishes by letting me play football, basketball, and baseball, and not making me specialize in just one sport.

The money you spent for me to play on various Select teams wasn’t some sort of guaranty that I’d ever become good enough to play college ball. What my Select ball experience did was improve my skills and help keep me on the right track, instead of drifting off doing who-knows-what with my idle time. I am only guaranteed a chance to play when it comes to high school ball – nothing more.

Look, I know deep down that I’m not going to get an athletic scholarship to college. I’m a good athlete, but I am not the elite, almost freakish one that gets a free ride. I’ve learned something about genetics in Biology class, and I got your genes, which explains why I’m not 6’10”, or 275 pounds, or run the hundred in ten-flat. So don’t blame me for not playing at the next level – look in the mirror. Just kidding. I wouldn’t change a thing about me – or you.

I need you to understand that it’s not just me who gets to have a sports season. But the sports season the two of you get to have is going to be an entirely different one from mine.

I’ll be learning life lessons in the “non-traditional classroom” that high school sports represent. I’ll be learning what dedication and commitment are, not just by playing the games, but by working hard in practice, testing my courage, running until my lungs feel like they could burst, dealing with the hurts and pains that come from sore muscles, bruised bones and scraped knees. 

By finding out how much I can care about something, how much I’m willing to do beyond what I think is possible in order to help our team be successful, how much I’m willing to sacrifice myself for the good of the team, I’m going to be learning important things about life.

I’m also going to experience the fun times, too, times that you can’t be any part of, like the ten minutes in the locker room right before a game, and the ten minutes in the locker room after a game, regardless of if we won or lost, happy or sad – or the bus rides to and from games, and the silly times in the dugout or locker room when I’m just having fun with my friends, still just being a kid.

This goes without saying ---

While this has never been a problem with you in the past, if for some reason you indulge in adult beverages before one of my games and think it would be a good idea to show up and be loud, abusive, possibly even vulgar - DON’T. EVER. That sort of behavior from you would embarrass me to death, and would become your signature moment, to be remembered forever. And should one of the other parents come to a game in that condition, do everybody a favor and quietly suggest to them that they leave. Or better still, discreetly talk to one of the school’s administrators who are at the game, and let them handle the situation.

I want you to get the other parents on the team to sit together at our games.

You and the other parents get to have fun, too, as you band together and root for us all season. It’s sort of like getting on a ride at Disneyland, with all the ups and downs, thrills and spills.

Here’s a golden opportunity for a couple old fogies like you to make some new friends, and when was the last time that happened? I’m not saying you have to sit next to that blowhard who is always bragging about his life, who distracts you from the game you’re intently watching – avoiding getting stuck sitting next to him is going to have to be a new move you’ll have to work on this year, I guess. 

I’d like you to seek out the parents of the new kids on the team, the ones who don’t really know any of the other parents yet, and bring them into the fold. You’re always telling me how some of my high school buddies are going to be my friends for life. Maybe the same can be said for you about other parents on the team. Who knows, maybe you’ll find your next best friends at my games this season.

This year, I want to hear you cheering for my teammates, too, and calling them by name, not just me.

I’d really like it if you went out of your way to get to know some of the other guys on the team. I am not the only story on the team. Every player has his own story worth being aware of. Unlike the college or pro teams in town who you can only cheer for from a distance, you can actually meet and get to know the kids I play with. The more kids you know on the team, and the more you know about them, the more you will enjoy watching us play.

I know you like to root for me at my games. I can hear your voice every time you do – I’ve been trained all my life to listen for it. But I also want you to cheer for my team and teammates so much that a stranger in the gym can’t tell that we have the same last name. With any luck, the other parents will get the hint and root for all of us, not just their own kids.

They’re just our opponents – they’re not our enemies.

It’s also OK with me if you acknowledge a good play or effort by an opponent. You know, those kids are just like me, they just live in a different town than we do. They care about the sport we love, they probably like the same music and movies that we do, and there’s not much difference between them and us, other than the color of the shirt they’re wearing that particular night. At the end of each game, we show them respect by going through the handshake line with them. I want you to show them respect, too.

Just because the call wasn’t in our favor doesn’t mean it was a bad call.

And while I’m on the topic of showing respect, I want you to be respectful to the game officials. I know there are times when we all disagree with their calls, or are at least disappointed when one doesn’t go our way.

It’s OK to disagree with them, but don’t be disrespectful. They are the game’s authority figures, and since you’re always telling me to respect authority, I expect you to do the same.

Besides, those guys are right most of the time, and they almost always know our rules better than anybody up in the stands does, especially since the rules can be different for high school, college and pro ball.

The team comes first. Not me. Not any one single player. Certainly not you or any of the other parents.

Our coaches do a great job of instilling in us team values, to put aside any selfishness we may feel in favor of support for our common effort. If any of us are unhappy about our playing time, the position we’re playing, or the way we’re being treated, he wants us to come to him and talk with him about it. All of us are OK with this arrangement. Most of the time, the guys who are second-string understand that the guys ahead of them are better than they are. Our coaches work really hard to nip any jealousies or disagreements in the bud.

The most important thing for us when we’re on a team is …… The Team.

When comments are made by outsiders (parents, particularly) that are critical of us or the coaches, they tear at the very fabric of the team. The louder they are, the more they damage the sense of unity and togetherness we’re trying to establish.

Instead of thinking about the next play or the next game, we wind up spending time dealing with stuff that takes our eye off the ball, so to speak.

But our coaches know more about the game than you do, I’ll bet. When a play doesn’t work, they know – right then- who it was that caused the play to fail, as opposed to the fans in the stands who only know that the play didn’t work.

The coach has earned the right to fill out the line-up card - to decide who plays where, when, and what plays we run.

My head coach probably spends 750-1000 hours a year on his sport, between planning practices, watching game films, game-planning for each week’s opponent, running practices, and actually coaching the games, not to mention attending coaching clinics, dealing with the paperwork side of coaching, and keeping in touch with us players all year round. 

He spends more waking hours during the season with us than his own family. Fact is, I see more of him each week than I do you during the season. On top of that, you might know only 5 or 10 of the kids on the team. Coach knows each and every one of us. He cares about us, not just as players, but as people.

Just because you disagree with the coach, doesn’t mean he’s an idiot.

Dad, I know how much you love sports, and how much you think you know about them from having played when you were young, and from watching games week after week, year after year. You know a little about a lot of sports. My coach is the world’s greatest expert on the subject of my team.

Just remember that there are three things every guy thinks he can do better than anybody else – build a campfire, grill a steak, and manage a ballclub. There’s an old saying – ‘a little knowledge is a dangerous thing’. There are bound to be times when you disagree with something he does. When that happens, keep it to yourself, please.

I hope you’ll get to know my coach.

If you want to have a relationship with my coach, make sure it’s a non-critical, supportive one. Thank him after the games for his hard work, be appreciative of all he does and be thankful (as I am) that we have him on our side. And while you’re at it, be a friend and supporter of his wife, too. She comes to all the games and roots harder (if only to herself), and cares about it more than you do. While all you parents have a son on the team, she has fifty of us. 

She hears every comment that gets made up in the stands, and somehow manages to keep her cool when somebody up there says something critical or stupid about the team or her husband. When the game is over and you’re on your way home, the game may not even be on your mind by the time you pull into the garage. I’m sure Coach’s wife lives with the outcomes (especially the losses) a lot longer than any of you parents do.

I know you’ve always told me that my schoolwork is more important than sports. I guess that means that if you’re going to get to know my coach, you better get to know all my teachers this year, too. I want both of you to come to Back To School Night and meet my teachers, maybe shoot them an email afterwards.

As you would no sooner try to tell my English teacher how to conduct her class or criticize her in public, the same probably should be said about your demeanor toward my coaches.

If you want to analyze and re-hash the game in-depth, I’ll do it with you, but won’t it keep until the next morning?

When the game is over, don’t expect me to be all chatty and happy to talk with you, at least not right away. Games are physically, mentally, and emotionally draining for me, for you, for all of us. Everybody’s nerves might be raw and on edge right after a game. Sure, I’ll take your hugs, win or lose, as will my teammates. 

But give me some time to decompress, to think through what just happened out there and what the coaches had to say afterwards before you start peppering me with all sorts of ‘what happened?’ questions. And don’t ask me to violate the sanctity of the locker room. What gets said in there stays in there – sort of like going to Las Vegas.

Look, if all you want to know right after the game is what was so funny in the third quarter that all of us on the bench started laughing, I’ll tell you all about it.

Playing in games with my buddies, in front of our fellow students with all you moms and dads watching and cheering us on; it might just be the most fun I’ll get to have in my whole life.

I know we’ve talked in the past about what it’s like for me to be playing during the pressure situations that can develop during the games, and how your stomachs get twisted into a knot, and how mom sometimes has to hide her eyes.

But from my perspective, I’m so busy playing, so locked in and focused on what I’m doing, that I don’t have time to think about the consequences of failure, of what happens if I drop the pass, or miss the shot, or strike out.

What you call ‘pressure’ is, for me, pure fun.

Everybody’s always saying how playing sports builds character. You’ve told me that yourself on several occasions.

My coach says that while it’s true, there is a greater truth to be said about sports.

He says ‘sports reveals character’.

As my last year of playing sports begins soon, I hope that the character I reveal will make you proud of me.

And I hope that I’ll be proud of you.

I have to go now. First practice of the season is in the morning.

Here’s to a great season.

For you.

Love,
Your Child


Seattle detectives investigating homicide in Lake City neighborhood

Photo courtesy Seattle Police Department
By Officer Shawn Weismiller

Seattle Police Department Homicide detectives are investigating a shooting that left one man deceased in the Lake City neighborhood Monday night, August 28, 2023

Shortly after 11:00pm, officers responded to a report of a male shot in the 13700 block of 32nd Ave NE. Police arrived and located a male with a gunshot wound.

Officers attempted life-saving measures until Seattle Fire Department personnel arrived. The victim was transported to Harborview Medical Center in critical condition. Despite all life-saving efforts, the victim was pronounced deceased.

The circumstances that led up to the shooting are unknown at this time.

Members of the Crime Scene Investigation Unit and Homicide detectives responded to the scene. The Homicide Unit will be leading the investigation.

If anyone has information regarding this investigation, please call the Seattle PD Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000.



Tuesday, August 29, 2023

Dunn Gardens workshop: Gardening with Ferns

Photo courtesy Dunn Gardens

Gardening with Ferns- Wednesday, September 13, 2023 @ 6:30pm
Cost: Members-$15 | Not-Yet-Members-$25

Ferns are the ultimate foliage plants for our Pacific Northwest Gardens. There are few other plants that can provide the grace and beauty that a well-placed fern can provide, yet they are often underused or overlooked as we develop our gardens. 

Richie Steffen, Executive Director
Elisabeth C. Miller Botanical Garden
Richie Steffen, executive director of the Elisabeth C Miller Botanical Garden, will share his tip and techniques for using these plants in the landscape as well as share some of the best and most beautiful that will thrive in our climate.

Few people have a passion for plants or an excitement about gardening more than Richie Steffen. Richie is the executive director for the Elisabeth C. Miller Botanical Garden, overseeing the development of the garden, its programs and the rare plant collections. 

His expertise comes from over thirty-five years of experience in the horticultural field, with the last 23 years spent at the Miller Garden. 

Ferns have become a specialty for him, and Richie maintains extensive collections at the Miller Garden and his home garden. He has traveled to Europe, Japan, Chile, New Zealand and Costa Rica as well as numerous trips around the US studying ferns and other plants.

He is active in the gardening community and is currently past president of the Hardy Fern Foundation and the Northwest Horticultural Society. A noted lecturer, writer and photographer, Richie is the co-author of the “Plant Lover’s Guide to Ferns” with his friend and fern mentor Sue Olsen."


City of Lake Forest Park offers locking mailbox program to residents of single family homes including duplex and triplex

The City of Lake Forest Park is very interested in reducing mail theft within our community. 

The Locking Mailbox Program is intended to further this goal by making our property owners aware of the value of locking mailboxes for deterring theft and by helping minimize the burdens of cost and installation of a locking mailbox.

Who Can Participate?

Property owners of single-family residential units (including duplexes and triplexes) are eligible to participate in the program. Tenants may also participate with written permission from their landlord (necessary as the mailbox will be owned by the property owner). Mailboxes are available on a first come first served basis and limited to one mailbox per addressed residence within the City of Lake Forest Park.

What are the Program Details?

Property owners may sign up for the program by submitting a completed application, including payment, to City Hall. Applications are available Applications are available here or in-person at City Hall in Town Center.

A mailbox will be reserved upon receipt of a complete application and payment. Once the city has received a significant number of applications, we will place a bulk order for mailboxes. Once we receive the mailboxes, you will be contacted to pick yours up.

The Mail Boss 7500 Mail Manager Pro in black has been selected for the program based on durability, security, product warranty, and price. 

The mailbox will cost $121.44, which includes $11 shipping and $11.24 sales tax, which is significantly lower than the retail cost of $160. Payments can be made in person by cash, card*, or check (*additional service fee applies).

The program also provides the opportunity for free installation of the mailbox through the Lake Forest Park Rotary Club. Upon installation, the mailbox and related support structure become the complete responsibility of the property owner.

For questions regarding the program or assistance with filling out the application, contact City Hall at 206-368-5440.

Updated article to include sales tax in the cost of a box.

Shoreline Police Department announces Open Data Dashboard


The Shoreline Police Department has a new online Open Data Dashboard. 

With this tool, you have access to the public safety information that matters most. Visit this site to learn more about the work done by your Shoreline PD.

You can access it through the QR code or use this link. There are filters for category of crime and data range. Hint: the map is a lot less intimidating if you select for a one month range.

Clicking on a crime dot will bring up the information. Scrolling through the list of incidents will help find an explanation for a recent incident.



Scene on the Sound: Cruise ship heads north in haze and clouds

 
Photo by Lee Lageschulte

The Ovation of the Seas cruise ship heads to Alaska past the Edmonds ferry dock. The haze might be wildfire smoke or our normal moisture-laden air.



Shoreline ACS marks major milestone with primary repeater antenna at 285 feet


The Shoreline Auxiliary Communication System (ACS) celebrated the conclusion of a two year project to move their primary repeater antenna at the CRISTA tower on Fremont and N 193rd from 185' to 285' . 

This move was required to make room for a new cellular company on the tower at their old location. 

There just happened to be abandoned cable at the new location, so the tower crew moved our antenna. 

And what a difference. 

We have handheld portable radio coverage from Puget Sound to Lake Washington. 
Not sure yet how far south, but at least Everett to the north.

ACS at the Farmers Market

The Shoreline ACS is a non-profit 501(c)(3) that supports the City of Shoreline's Emergency Operations Center and the Shoreline Police Department, in addition to the Fire Department.

The team, consisting of about 35 volunteer amateur radio operators, trains to provide emergency communications in the event of disasters, since normal communication methods can quickly become overloaded during such an event, if they survive at all.

The ACS team, with their fully equipped van, is appearing at the farmers market, Ballinger Friendship Festival, Ridgecrest Outdoor Movie and other community events.