Showing posts with label politics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label politics. Show all posts

Paula Goode Candidate for LFP Council Position #6

Thursday, October 26, 2023

Paula Goode, candidate for LFP
Council Position #6
I’m Paula Goode, running for LFP Council. My family moved here for the community and beauty. We renovated the historic Sheridan Market as a labor of love, turning it into a music/community space. 

We updated the connected apartments, providing affordable, below market rentals. We love living along a stream among old growth trees and have become environmental advocates in our neighborhood.

I am deeply committed to preserving LFP’s special quality of life. As a cofounder of Citizens Organized to Rethink Expansion of 522, we turned out two of the most attended citizen comment sessions in LFP history. 

I will reach out, listen, and be an effective, active Council member representing you and your concerns.

I know how to work collaboratively to get things done. My background, knowledge, and experience is in business, working with city codes and managing budgets. 

I have attended many Council, Planning Commission, and other public meetings, so I understand the issues that impact our city.

Sound Transit Plans

ST’s current design would forever alter our environment and over 100 residences. I am advocating BRT design changes and mitigation for a less destructive, costly design.

Housing Affordability

Growth requires strategic thinking and innovative approaches that encourage young families to move here and long-time citizens to stay. I will advocate for practical affordability and housing diversity that fits our LFP.

Tree, Streams, Ravines

Our tree canopy provides climate change benefits, cooling in summer and warmth in winter, and preserving city infrastructure. I will work to protect our tree canopy and streams, and encourage conservation by our residents.

Smart Budgeting

I will ensure sure our budget is sound and provides for public safety and other essential services. I support securing grant funds for the new Lakefront Park and other opportunities.

I ask for your vote!

Paula Goode 

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Stephanie Angelis Candidate for LFP Council Position #6

Stephanie Angelis, candidate for
LFP council position 6
My name is Stephanie Angelis, I moved to Lake Forest Park to be surrounded by the vibrant, healthy ecosystem. With coming changes, Lake Forest Park can still retain its character for decades to come. 

With my background in environmental sciences and community outreach programs, I am uniquely qualified to ensure our community voice is prioritized through meaningful outreach.

I am here to listen, and represent the diverse needs of all of our residents, from Ballinger to Brier, and Kenmore to Seattle. I plan to engage everyone with the goal of reaching equitable outcomes where no one feels their voice is left unheard. 

If I am elected for Lake Forest Park city council position 6, I will prioritize the implementation of the waterfront park.

I believe this park will invigorate our waterfront, invite residents and visitors to join together and support a thriving town center. On city council, I will advocate for a small business incubator to increase outreach to potential business owners, and help to build future revenue sources.

I would like LFP to encourage university capstone and graduate projects to capture valuable semi-professional volunteer hours. Students would be largely autonomous and require college faculty management partners; the City staff would provide resident and municipal requests for volunteer research, hard-work and documentation. These Research Projects can run multiple years if future students take up the mantle, but they often have a planned deliverable at a one-year conclusion.

I will always strive to think outside of the box and bring in outside assistance wherever possible. Vote for me to be represented by a measured, Democrat voice who will stand up for a practical future vision of Lake Forest Park. I am happy to work with my colleagues, negotiate with all parties and demonstrate a willingness to listen and continuously learn.
THANK YOU!

Best Regards,
Stephanie Angelis
206-353-0614
StephanieAngelisforLFP@gmail.com


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Residents line up to sell guns to police at Gift Cards for Guns second event

Tuesday, October 24, 2023


All photos by Steven H. Robinson

On Saturday, October 21, 2023 King County, and the King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO), in collaboration with the cities of Shoreline and Kenmore, hosted a Gift Cards for Guns event.

This was the second event in a program that received a $100,000 allotment from the King County Council in July 2022.

People got in line early

It is a voluntary program that provides the public with a viable alternative for disposing of firearms and ammunition. The program was initiated by the King County Council County and King County Executive’s Office and aims to reduce gun violence and promote public safety.

The program aims to address the increase in gun violence in King County by implementing a voluntary firearm and ammunition return program that residents can easily access. 

Pull up, police will unload the guns

By reducing the number of guns in circulation, the program hopes to decrease the number of accidents, injuries, and deaths caused by firearms. The program also offers residents a safe, consistent option for returning unwanted guns and ammunition.


The event was held as a drive-through at Shoreline Community College, located at 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline, WA, 98133.

It was scheduled to run from 10am to 2pm or until all gift cards had been distributed. Participants were paid from Zero dollars for ammunition, pellet guns, toy guns, etc. to $300 for AR-15, AK-47, and machine guns.

As expected a variety of weapons were brought in

By 12:30pm about 265 guns had been collected and $28,200 of the $35,000 designated had been given away.


For more information about the KCSO Gift Cards for Guns Program, including event dates and locations, visit the KCSO Facebook page.

Our county councilmember Rod Dembowski said that 

"These events are a result of legislation I passed last year establishing King County’s firearm and ammunition return program. Similar efforts across the country have proven successful in allowing not only a place for secure disposal, but also ensuring firearms owners can know that their unwanted firearms will not fall into the wrong hands if resold in the private market. 
"I appreciate the professionalism and service to our community from the Sheriff’s department and their team who are managing this important program, and value their work using a range of law enforcement strategies to keep our communities safe. 

"Studies have repeatedly shown that guns in homes are more likely to lead to accidental shootings, assaults, or suicide attempts than to be used successfully in self-defense. Voluntary buyback programs can be effective at decreasing that risk. 
"While other public safety strategies are meant to address guns used in crimes, this particular strategy is about safety at home and reducing the risk of firearms injuries and deaths." 


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Ellyn Saunders Candidate for LFP Council position #4

Monday, October 23, 2023

Ellyn Saunders and family

Hello, I’m Ellyn Saunders and I’ve lived in Lake Forest Park for 17 years, with my husband Brian. We raised our twins here, who attended Brookside, Kellogg and Shorecrest.

This is my first time running for a political position and although I don’t have the experience as a politician, I DO have 25 years’ experience as a registered nurse, playing a key role as advocate, voice and representative for my patients.

I decided to run for city council because I am now in a position in my life to be a voice and advocate for the people of Lake Forest Park. There are several issues that need to be addressed and I would very much like to be part of that decision making process, to be involved and present in the community and help to build a bridge to inclusiveness. 

The main issues that are important to myself and to many citizens I’ve spoken to are:
  • affordable and equitable housing,
  • safer streets for pedestrians and bicyclists,
  • mental health awareness and services
  • protect our trees and environment
I am an active community volunteer with the arts, education, Stewardship Foundation, and have served on the PTA Board of Directors.

I was raised by parents who believed in the value of integrity, dependability and responsibility. I strive to live each day by these principles. If elected to be your city council member, I will bring with me these values and use these principles as your community voice, representing each and every one of the citizens of Lake Forest Park and this wonderful city I feel honored to be a part of.

I welcome you to visit my website to learn more about me: Ellyn4LFPcity.com

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Election information from League of Women Voters

Thursday, October 19, 2023

Election Day is coming up. 

If you have an interest in Snohomish County (Woodway, Bothell) visit the League of Women Voters of Snohomish County website: lwvsnoho.org. The League recorded forums with candidates in both the primary and general elections. You can access video and audio podcasts from those forums and hear from candidates in over 40 local races.

For all candidates, not just Sno county, visit VOTE411.org - the League’s online voter guide that is unbiased, relevant, and easy to use. 
  • See What's On Your Ballot
  • Check Your Voter Registration
  • Find Your Polling Place
  • Discover Upcoming Debates In Your Area
  • And Much More!
Election day is November 7. Voters can register by mail, online – or in person up to and including Election Day. For more information, visit VOTEWA.gov

Be an informed Voter – and vote!

The League of Women Voters was founded in 1920, the same year women won the vote. For 100 years, they have been a nonpartisan, activist, grassroots organization that believes voters should play a critical role in democracy. 


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Candidates for Shoreline School Board answer questions at public forum October 16, 2023

School board candidates
Photo by Mike Remarcke

By Mike Remarcke

The Shoreline PTA Council, representing 15 PTA’s in the Shoreline School District, hosted a candidate forum for those running for the Shoreline School Board.

The event was held at the Shoreline Center on Monday night, October 16, 2023. The moderator was from the League of Women Voters, volunteers manned the timers and approximately 40 concerned citizens attended.

Candidates running for board positions participated in the forum.
  • District No. 1 Meghan Jernigan - Unopposed incumbent
  • District No. 5 Sara Betnel - Unopposed incumbent
  • District No. 4 Sylvia Gil versus Hazim Ghanim (open seat)

Mehgan Jernigan began by introducing herself as an active board member since 2019. As a Native American mother of two in the school system, she sees firsthand some of the gaps in opportunities. She believes we need diverse voices to unlock the district’s full potential and meet the educational needs of all our students. She is running unopposed.

Sara Betnel was also sworn in to office in 2019. Her goal is to listen, learn, and work to improve student experience, engagement, and outcomes in every Shoreline school. She is also unopposed.

Hazim Ghanim lives in Shoreline and has a daughter in the second grade. He believes in the power of a diverse and inclusive school environment. He believes he can infuse a fresh perspective into the board and elevate the voices of those who are underrepresented. He is an Engineering Manager at Boeing.

Silvia Gil stated that equity is very important in the school district and must not be overshadowed by budget issues causing disparities within the community. She also has a child in the school system, is a former teacher, and now is the Director of Integrated Programs, Community Health Plans of Washington.

Candidates responded to a set of predetermined questions as well as a few spontaneous questions from the audience. 

Note: We will focus on the District No.4 race between Hazim Ghanim and Silvia Gil, as the other two candidates are running unopposed.

QUESTION: What experience do you have which prepares you to be an effective leader that values equity and social justice?
  • HG- He is involved in the DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) at the Boeing Co. which spearheads programs that promote these concepts.
  • SG – She is involved with the data gathering and analysis of programs that value the sense of belonging and equity and has roles in advocacy, strategy and leadership at CHPW.  
QUESTION: How do you see easing the issues of mental health in the school system?
  • All of the candidates agreed that this is an issue that needs to be closely monitored. It is an issue that teachers need training in spotting troubles, along with families, with ways to communicate with each other. More counselors are needed and more outside resources that can be called on. Once again, the issue of inclusion and having a healthy environment at the school level can reduce the issues of mental health. When kids feel accepted and safe, mental health issues can be held in check.
QUESTION: What is your view of the current budget challenges? Is increasing enrollment an option?
  • SG - She would like to learn and understand the budget process, learn and review the costs, understand the unintended consequences of cuts and do deep reviews at the end of each year.
  • HG – From his budgeting experience at work, he would deeply scrutinize the budget, review and fully fund the reserves, and make sure all monies from other sources, such as state and federal are received and utilized.
  • MJ and SB – They both fully understand the sources of funding and want to maximize potential and also find and maximize other sources to enhance income to the district. They both appreciate the Budget Advisory Team work on budget issues.
The question of increasing enrollment to get more state funds came up for discussion. 
  • The group agreed that there is no need to go recruiting more students, but to provide the best education and school experience for the students and that in itself will potentially draw other students into the district.
QUESTION: How would you deal with social issues such as bullying and physical/sexual violence?
  • Once again, all of the candidates were aware of and concerned with deviant behavior. All felt that teachers and staff need to be aware of the issues and trained on how to handle events, as with the counseling staff. Parents and the community in large had major roles in minimizing issues and events. Again, providing a safe environment is of utmost importance.
QUESTION: How do you intend to remain current?
  • The two incumbent board members had experience with this subject; the two vying for the position will learn this as they begin to participate on the board. 
  • There are resources in the school system itself including experts in the field. There are plenty of outside educational sources, association sources and agencies that can enhance a board member's understanding of a wide variety of subjects. (This reporter recently heard presentations by two Shoreline School District educators, one on multilingual learners, the other on literacy, at a seminar for the Power of One Volunteers. Both were excellent.)
QUESTION: How will you ensure that the board is accountable and open to the public?
  • First of all, the candidates all called for as much transparency and community involvement as possible. The four candidates discussed all the variety of communication options open to the public. 
  • There is a board website, and school websites. 
  • There is a highly regarded PTA organization at each of the schools. 
  • Board meetings are open to the public including the budget meetings and the Budget Advisory Team meetings. 
  • A weekly newsletter is open to the public by simply signing up. 
  • There are media outlets that report on school events, such as the Shoreline Area News.
QUESTIONS from the audience: Book banning? Free breakfasts? Edwin Pratt?
  • All of the candidates were totally against restriction of learning and diversity by banning books. The concept of banning learning tools is abhorrent. 
  • All the candidates would love to see free breakfasts and lunches, for they all know that good nutrition is most important for learning. The issue is funding. The school district has a couple of schools that have free lunch, but money is needed from the state and the feds.
  • Edwin Pratt Early Learning Center has been a godsend for parents over the years and all the candidates have used the after school care and gave it high marks. It looks like the operation may be turned over to an outside operation. This is an issue that is outside the realm of the schools and the school board and all they can do is support the decision of those that operate the after school center.
A video of the entire forum is posted online HERE

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King county council recognizes Dan Evans for outstanding service to the State of Washington

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

King County Councilmembers and Executive Constantine honored former WA Governor and U.S. Senator Dan Evans, alongside his wife, Nancy, at a ceremony at the King County Courthouse.

On the day after his 98th birthday, the King County Council recognized former Senator and Governor Dan Evans for his many years of outstanding service to the State of Washington, both at home and in the other Washington.

"Today we live in an era of division at all levels of government, but when Dan served, he was a master of reaching across the aisle, working with two Democratic senators when he was governor and with a Democratic governor when he was a senator.

“Dan was also a groundbreaking legislator when it came to the environment,” said Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer, who co-sponsored the Recognition. 

“In the early 1970s, when most politicians weren’t focused on the environment, Dan made Washington state a frontrunner in environmental protection. 

"From establishing the first, state-level ecology department in the United States and co-founding the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Coalition, to helping pass the 1984 Washington Wilderness Act and the 1988 Washington Park Wilderness Act when he was a United States Senator, Dan built an environmental ethos that still runs through our state today. 

"Dan took risks for the issues he believed in, even when they weren’t popular, and our state is eternally grateful he did.”

Dan Evans with Councilmember Rod Dembowski
Dan Evans has made a lifetime of public service. 

After serving in the Navy during the Korean War, Dan was elected to the Washington State legislature, where he was a state representative until running for governor in 1964. 

Dan served as Washington State Governor for three terms, from 1965 to 1977, and went on to serve as a U.S. Senator representing Washington state until 1988. 

Outside of his political career, Dan was active in education, presiding as President of the Evergreen State College, and serving 12 years as a regent at the University of Washington, which named its School of Public Affairs after him.

“There’s not been much of consequence that Dan Evans didn’t work on during his time in public office and in other work,” said co-sponsor of the Recognition Jeanne Kohl-Welles. 
“To me, he is a legend, a hero. A one of a kind who I can’t imagine being replaced. I was privileged to get to know him as a new legislator, in particular in sharing a love for and high priority for ensuring access to affordable, equitable, quality higher education.”


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Rep. Jayapal shares resources for connecting with friends in the Middle East

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Map courtesy Media Alert blog

From U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal

Amid the ongoing situation in the Middle East, I wanted to share some resources to assist with any concerns you may have regarding security for U.S. citizens in the region:

For the latest updates, please monitor messages from the U.S. Embassy in Israel to U.S. citizens: https://il.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/security-and-travel-information/

If you or someone you know is a U.S. citizen that is currently in Israel, please enroll your contact information in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): https://step.state.gov/step/

The State Department will post travel advisory updates for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/IsraeltheWestBankandGaza.html?wcmmode=disabled

The Department of State has a 24/7 coordinating group communicating with U.S. citizens and providing them assistance through phone calls and an online form. All U.S. citizens whether in Israel, the West Bank, or Gaza seeking to be in touch with the U.S. Embassy in Israel can fill out the form at https://cacms.state.gov/s/crisis-intake or call 1-833-890-9595 or 1-606-641-0131.


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The 2023 Student Mock Election is open for all Washington K-12 students

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

Image courtesy WA Secretary of State
OLYMPIA — Young Washingtonians across the state are invited to participate in the 2023 Student Mock Election presented by the Office of the Secretary of State.

The Student Mock Election is a non-partisan, educational event that teaches children to be informed voters. All K-12 students in Washington state are welcome to participate by casting votes on races and measures. 

In recognition of National Voter Education Week the first week of October, Secretary of State Steve Hobbs is calling on students and teachers across Washington to take part in the Mock Election.

“This opportunity is great preparation for young Washingtonians to become aware and involved as soon as they’re eligible,” Secretary Hobbs said. “I’m inviting educators throughout the state to use the Student Mock Election and help encourage lifelong participation in our democracy.”

Ballots, vote tabulation sheets, posters, and Voters’ Pamphlets available for download here. Free “I Voted” stickers can be ordered from the website as well. 

In this year’s Mock Election — History Edition, students have the opportunity to vote on historical questions from past Washington elections, including which city should serve as the state capital (an 1890 election), whether to lower the state voting age (1970), and other milestone decisions. 

An alternate ballot, also downloadable, offers participants choices of favorite desserts or seasons, or whether to ban pineapple as a pizza topping.

From October 6 until the November 7, 2023 General Election, participation statistics will be available on the Secretary of State’s Mock Election engagement dashboard website

The Mock Election website also offers a free Teaching Elections in Washington State curriculum book and a series of 30-45 minute lessons to help students learn how elections work.

“I’m proud to make this toolkit of free resources available to every teacher and home educator,” Secretary Hobbs said. “I hope to help students across the state learn the power of civic engagement.”

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. 

The office also manages the State Archives and the State Library, documents extraordinary stories in Washington’s history through Legacy Washington, oversees the Combined Fund Drive for charitable giving by state employees, and administers the state’s Address Confidentiality Program to help protect survivors of crime.


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Sen. Murray at Shoreline Community College to meet with State officials and providers on lapse of key Federal Child Care funding

Saturday, October 7, 2023

On Friday, October 6, 2023, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and a former preschool teacher, visited Shoreline Community College to hear about how Washington state is responding to the expiration of federal child care funding that she was instrumental in delivering in the American Rescue Plan.


Senator Murray was joined by Washington State Rep Tana Senn (D-LD-41); Allison Krustinger, Director of Public Affairs at Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Family Services (DCYF); Junaid Haq, Director of the Parent Child Center at Shoreline Community College; Deeann Puffert, CEO of Child Care Aware of Washington; and parents of children who are enrolled at the Parent Child Center at Shoreline Community College.

Senator Murray spoke about her efforts to extend federal child care stabilization funding, her comprehensive child care reform legislation, and her continued work to address the child care crisis through every possible avenue in Congress.

When the pandemic pushed the already-fragile child care sector to the brink of collapse, Senator Murray led Democrats in Congress by delivering a historic $24 billion in child care stabilization funding nationwide through the American Rescue Plan to save the sector from collapse.

U.S. Sen. Murray at Shoreline Community College

The funding made an enormous difference, keeping 220,000 child care providers afloat over the last few years and saving child care slots for up to 10 million kids nationwide — but the funds expired at the end of September.

Last month, Senator Murray introduced the Child Care Stabilization Act, which was cosponsored by dozens of her Democratic colleagues and would extend the child care stabilization funding and ensure that providers can keep their doors open — and she is working to build the support needed to get it to the President’s desk.

“As a former preschool teacher and someone who got my start in politics advocating for my kids’ pre-k program, child care has always been an issue that is close to my heart,” said Senator Murray.
“No matter where I go, I am constantly hearing from families who are stressed trying to figure out how they will find a child care opening, and how they will afford it if they can get off the waitlist.
 
"I led the efforts in Congress to save the child care sector from collapse when COVID hit our country hard — and the investment we made in child care, which was the largest one-time investment ever, helped over 220,000 providers keep their doors open and serve up to 10 million kids nationwide.”

“But," Murray said, "those funds expired at the end of September — threatening to make it even harder than it already is for parents and families to find child care. That’s why I’ve introduced legislation to extend these critical child care stabilization funds to help providers keep their doors open and serve families.

"Because let’s be clear: our child care system isn’t just stretched thin — it’s broken. I’m going to continue working every avenue available — and work with every willing partner in Congress and in Washington state — to help families in our state find and afford quality child care,” Murray said.


Junaid Haq, Director of the Parent Child Center at Shoreline Community College, said, 

“As the Director of a Parent Child Center, I truly understand the importance of serving our faculty, students, and community with high quality childcare. 
"My center helps our faculty and community families to continue to work, and our students to follow their goals and future endeavors. 
"I strongly believe that further investments in childcare will help with families that receive financial assistance and the amount that childcare providers are paid."

Earlier this year, Senator Murray reintroduced her Child Care for Working Families Act, comprehensive legislation to solve the child care crisis and ensure families across America can find and afford high-quality child care.

Senator Murray has long fought to strengthen the Child Care and Development Block (CCDBG)—and last year as Chair of the Labor-HHS Appropriations Subcommittee, she successfully secured a 30% increase in funding for the program. 

As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Murray secured another $700 million increase for CCDBG in the draft fiscal year 2024 funding bill that passed out of Committee in July.



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Three Jumbo ferries to be converted to hybrid-electric power

Saturday, September 30, 2023

Jumbo Mark II-class ferries to be converted to hybrid-electric

Work has begun on the first of three ferries, the Wenatchee, to convert it to hybrid-electric power.

A $100 million contract was awarded to Vigor Marine who will conduct the work to convert the vessels at its Harbor Island shipyard in Seattle.

The $100 million contract covers the conversion of two Jumbo Mark II-class ferries to hybrid-electric power, with a fixed-price option of $50 million to convert the third vessel in 2025. The contract also includes planned replacement of the propulsion control systems, which will increase reliability and the lifespan of the three ferries.

Vigor Marine will modernize the ship’s controls and other outdated systems. These updates will improve reliability and help ensure these 22-year-old ferries serve our communities for decades longer.

The Jumbo Mark II vessels are the largest in WSF’s fleet and produce 26% of WSF’s total annual greenhouse gas emissions. They also serve the most densely populated urban areas in Central Sound.

Vigor Marine has started work on Wenatchee, expected to reenter service next summer. Vigor will also begin converting Tacoma in 2024, with the option to convert Puyallup in 2025.

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) announced that $44.6 million (15.4%) of the $290 million project cost of converting three Washington State Ferries to hybrid-electric propulsion systems will be covered by federal funding that has already been awarded.

“This announcement charts a course for our ferry system to be cleaner, more sustainable, and more reliable, using the world-class labor of Washington’s shipbuilders,” said Sen. Cantwell. 
“Converting the fleet’s three biggest emitters from diesel to hybrid-electric power will drastically reduce emissions and fueling costs. Federal funding to improve our nation's transportation system and fight climate change made this milestone possible, covering a portion of the cost of modernizing these iconic ferries.”

Federal funding for the entire $290 million project is an estimated $44.6 million, 15.4% of the total cost.



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WIC can continue for two months beyond the federal government shut-down

Friday, September 29, 2023

The federal government will shut down at midnight on Saturday night (unless there is a last minute agreement, which does not seem likely).

One of the programs that may suffer is the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, or WIC, which provides food aid for mothers and children up to 5 years old. 

According to reporting the The Washington State Standard, the state's Department of Health, which oversees Washington's WIC program, said they have enough cash to keep the program going for at least a couple of months, even if a shutdown cuts off the normal flow of funding for it.

“We are not planning to institute any changes in the program at this time,” said Paul Throne, director of the department’s Office of Nutrition Services. “If we need emergency finding, we would work internally, and as needed, with the Governor’s Office and Legislature to identify possible sources,” Throne added. 

He noted that, during a five-week shutdown that began in December 2018, the state avoided WIC cuts. About 130,000 people rely on the program statewide.

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First Lady Jill Biden visits Seattle to meet with Fred Hutch staff

Saturday, September 23, 2023

Dr. Jill Biden in Seattle this week
First Lady Jill Biden visited the Northwest this week.

Biden spent Thursday and Friday in the Seattle area, capped by remarks at Seattle's Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in support of President Joe Biden's "Cancer Moonshot Initiative."

Her remarks at Fred Hutch:

"Of all the things cancer steals from us, time is the cruelest. We can’t afford to wait another minute for better solutions, better treatments, better cures.

"That’s why my husband, President Biden, and I reignited the Biden Cancer Moonshot – our White House initiative to build a world where cancer is not a death sentence. Where we stop cancer before it starts. Where we catch it early and help people live longer, healthier, happier lives. Where we invest in innovative research and help patients and their families navigate this journey.

"For survivors, that journey doesn’t end when they are declared “cancer free.” Side effects from treatment and the constant fear of that next doctor’s appointment linger through remission.

"But with research and the right care for survivors, we can mitigate those side effects and help ease those fears.

"That’s what’s happening here at Fred Hutch, where researchers are working to prevent breast cancer from coming back and metastasizing in survivors, and where clinicians are supporting survivors with quality care that’s designed to meet their unique needs.

"There are 18 million cancer survivors across our country, and thanks to the amazing work being done here, we are adding to that number each day.

"As I’ve traveled the country and the world – I’ve seen innovative programs and partnerships that are making progress. I’ve seen what is possible when we invest in cutting edge research. And I’ve seen that there is so much hope to be found.

"I see that hope here today as well. Your work will change lives, and save lives.

"Through the Biden Cancer Moonshot, we are putting American innovation to work for patients.

"And together, we will make it so the word cancer loses its power, so fewer families know the pain of losing a loved one to this disease.

"That’s the reason we’re all here. That’s why I’m asking you to lean in just a little more, to push your staffs just a little harder – for all the families touched by cancer across the country that are in a race against time.

"That is the urgency of now.

"For Joe and me, this is the mission of our lives. And we are ready and proud to work beside you.

"Now, I look forward to hearing your insights today, and I will bring your stories back to the White House so that others can benefit from your expertise."


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Your Voice, Your Choice: A Guide to Voting for Judges - online Tuesday September 26, 2023


Your Voice, Your Choice: A Guide to Voting for Judges, Tuesday, September 26, 6:30 – 8 pm. King County Library System Online Event

Voting for judges is an important part of our democracy. Join a panel discussion to learn what judges do and how to vote for them.

Panel includes: 
  • Moderator William Covington, Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Director, Technology Law and Public Policy Clinic and teaching professor at the University of Washington School of Law; 
  • Washington Supreme Court Justice Mary I. Yu; 
  • King County Superior Court Judge Karen Matson Donohue; 
  • Retired King County Shoreline District Judge Marcine Anderson.

Sponsored by the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle. Registration required.


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Tele-town hall with Rep. Jayapal on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at 6pm

Monday, September 18, 2023


Congressional Rep. Pramila Jayapal is hosting a tele-townhall at 6:00pm PT to give updates on her work in the district, discuss the looming #RepublicanShutdown, and answer your questions. 

To join, call 833-305-1687 or go to http://jayapal.house.gov/live.

Rep. Jayapal represents the 7th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The 7th district encompasses most of Seattle and surrounding areas including Shoreline, Vashon Island, Lake Forest Park, and parts of Burien and Normandy Park. 


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AG Bob Ferguson kicks off campaign for Governor

Sunday, September 10, 2023

Bob Ferguson kicks off campaign for governor at a packed rally in Central Seattle.
Photo by Janet Way

Attorney General Bob Ferguson, who previously represented Shoreline and Lake Forest Park on the King County Council, formally announced his campaign to succeed Jay Inslee as Washington state governor at a packed rally at the Washington Hall Ballroom, 153 14th Ave, Seattle on Saturday, September 9, 2023.

Washington political figures spanning the Democratic ideological spectrum and multiple generations of Democratic leadership in Washington attended the rally.

Notable attendees included Governor Jay Inslee and his wife, Trudi, who today announced their endorsement of the Ferguson campaign, former Governor Chris Gregoire, King County Executive Dow Constantine, U.S. Representatives Suzan DelBene and Pramila Jayapal, King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay, and Bob’s wife Colleen and their twins, Jack and Katie.

“I’m grateful for the outstanding support we’ve earned during the exploratory phase of this campaign — including from Governors Inslee and Gregoire, as well as unions statewide, Planned Parenthood, Pro-Choice Washington, small businesses, local Democratic Party organizations, and thousands of individuals throughout the state,” Ferguson said. 
“As Governor, I’ll take on tough challenges with bold leadership and policies that center the people of Washington. I’m excited for the months ahead as we continue building our grassroots campaign.”
Ferguson campaign information:

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Party declarations certified for Washington’s 2024 Presidential Primary

Thursday, August 31, 2023

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.


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Campaign season reminder – Rules for political signs in Lake Forest Park

Saturday, August 26, 2023

During this campaign season, the City of Lake Forest Park would like to remind the community about the rules for political signs:

Political signs may be placed on public rights-of-way or on private property with permission of the owner. 

However, they must be situated in such a way as to not create a traffic or safety hazard. 
All political signs must be removed within five days following the election.

According to RCW 29A.84.040

“A person who removes or defaces lawfully placed political advertising including yard signs or billboards without authorization is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable to the same extent as a misdemeanor that is punishable under RCW 9A.20.021. The defacement or removal of each item constitutes a separate violation.”

The LFP Police Department patrol officers are aware of these regulations and are keeping an eye out for violators.


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CORRECTION: Elections: Final primary results for Shoreline, LFP, Kenmore, Port of Seattle

Tuesday, August 22, 2023

King county has certified the primary election, and as expected, there were no changes from the early results.

Shoreline School Board
  • Sylvia Gil 8,153
  • Hazim Ghanim 3,558
  • Zack Stallings 2,994
Sylvia Gil was a runaway favorite for the open Shoreline School Board position, pulling 50% of the vote. She will meet Hazim Ghanim in November. Third place Zack Stallings has thrown his support to Ghanim but their combined vote total is still far below Gil.

The other positions are uncontested, giving Meghan Jernigan and Sara Betnel an additional term.

City of Lake Forest Park
Council Position 6
  • Paula Goode 1,974
  • Stephanie Angelis 963
  • Dustin Shaffer 842
Paula Goode took 52% of the vote in the primary and will be faced by Stephanie Angelis for the open seat now held by Tom French.

In other LFP races, 
  • Lorri Bodi is unopposed for Council Position 2 and will continue in her position.
  • Nigel Keiffer and Ellyn Saunders will vie for the open seat for Council Position 4, now held by Phillippa Kassover, who is retiring.
  • Tom French is running against Jeff Johnson for Mayor.

City of Shoreline

The Shoreline council had no races in the primary. In fact neither Keith Scully nor Betsy Robertson have opponents, so have effectively been re-elected to their seats on the council.

Long time council member Doris McConnell is being challenged by Annette Adamasu.

Shoreline Fire Commissioners
David Harris is unopposed.
Barb Sullivan and Larry Hadland will compete for a position in November.

Port of Seattle
Commissioner Position No. 5
Fred Felleman, who received 56% of the vote will face Jesse Tam.

Kenmore

The surprise in Kenmore was the result of the primary race for Council Position 5, with Jon Culver coming in ahead of 20 year councilmember and former mayor David Baker. They will face off in November.

In Position 7, Corina Pfeil will face Nathan Loutsis. 

Position 1 and 3 were not on the primary. Position 1 will be on the general in November with Melanie O'Cain facing Kara Macias. Position 3 will have Josh Kurcinka and Valerie Sasson.

Council Position No. 5
  • Jon Culver 2,022
  • David Baker 1,951
  • Mark Prince 1,089 
Council Position No. 7
  • Corina Pfeil 2,024 
  • Nathan Loutsis 1,607
  • Nathan MacDonald 1,482

Correction: In the Lake Forest Park council races, the original article misstated the Position numbers and current office holders for positions 4 and 7.

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Local election results as of Thursday August 10, 2023

Friday, August 11, 2023

Photo courtesy King County Elections
Election results as of Thursday, August 10, 2023
 
Results will continue to be released until August 15, 2023, as mail in ballots continue to arrive and signature discrepancies are resolved.

Proposition No. 1 Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services levy renewal
Approved......291,345..... 71.59 % 
Rejected....... 115,595..... 28.41 %

Shoreline School District No. 412 Director District No. 4
Top two advance to November election

Sylvia Gil............8,138...... 55.13 %
Zack Stallings ....2,986...... 20.23 %
Hazim Ghanim.. 3,554...... 24.08 %
Write-in.................. 83......... 0.56 %

City of Lake Forest Park Council Position No. 6
Top two advance to November election

Paula Goode......... 1,969 52.02 %
Dustin Shaffer......... 840 22.19 %
Stephanie Angelis... 960 25.36 %
Write-in.................... 16... 0.42 %

Port of Seattle Commissioner Position No. 5
Top two advance to November election

Jesse Tam............ 97,334... 25.63 %
Fred Felleman... 214,669... 56.52 %
Todd Curtis ..........65,790 ..17.32 %
Write-in................. 1,999.... 0.53 %


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