City discontinues Celebrate Shoreline Parade

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Corrected 1-23-2013 9:45pm
From the City of Shoreline

Celebrate Shoreline is the City’s week-long signature event held each August. Over the past 17 years Celebrate Shoreline has grown to include a DogFest at Hamlin Park, the North City Jazz Walk, a skateboard competition at Paramount Park, and the sandcastle building competition at Richmond Beach, in addition to the original parade and festival. These events have provided residents an opportunity to come together as a community and celebrate what it means to live in Shoreline.

While many of the events are very well attended and even growing in popularity, like the North City Jazz Walk, parade participation has dropped by 38% over the last 6 years. This drop, combined with other factors such as Cromwell Park’s redesign completion, has led City Council to support staff in transitioning to a new event format for 2013.

The most visible changes to the event will be the discontinuation of the parade and the relocation of the festival from Ridgecrest Elementary to Cromwell Park. Releasing the parade to the annals of history will allow financial resources to be redirected to a revitalized festival. Council and staff are excited to move the festival to a central location in the City while having the opportunity to show off one of Shoreline’s newest parks.


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Today's Business: Bill the Butcher opens in Edmonds


"Holy Cow ... We're Open!!!!"
Photo by Marc Weinberg

By Marc Weinberg

After two years of waiting and reading the sign in the window "Coming Soon" at 323 Main St (corner of Main and 4th) in downtown Edmonds, Bill the Butcher opened the doors for business at noon on January 20, 2013.


People lined up down the block for the opening
Photo by Marc Weinberg

People were lined up outside for at least 30 minutes before the opening. 30 minutes after the opening the line at the register was nearly 20 people deep.


Shelves are full of sauces and glazes
Photo by Marc Weinberg

You name it - in chicken and beef - and you'll find it at this refined shopping location. The shelves are also full with sauces, glazes and other treats to spice up your cooking.

For a more detailed look at the features in food go to their website.

Edmonds Shop, 323 Main St, Edmonds, WA 98020, 425-361-1341


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Husky Smiles - free dental screening for children 6mos to 18 years



Free Dental Screenings through a partnership between Center for Human Services and the University of Washington School of Dentistry. Feb 16, 2013 11am - 1pm in Shoreline.


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Shorewood Big Band swing dance Friday Feb 1


Friday, February 1st, 2013, 7:00 – 11:00pm

#9000 Main Dining room, Shoreline Community College
Shoreline 98133

Enjoy the jazzy sounds of Shorewood High School Jazz band, Einstein Middle School Jazz band and SCC Jazz Band on this special evening of music.

Learn to swing dance with instructors from Eastside Stomp, and enjoy a wonderful evening to support the Shorewood music program.

Tickets are sold in advance through Shorewood and Einstein Jazz band students, at the door, or by pre-ordering by calling the Shorewood Music Office at 206 393-4717.

Tickets:
  • Adult - $15 pre-sale ($18 at the door)
 
  • Seniors/staff/students: $10 pre-sale ($12 at door) 
Check the Shorewood High School website for more details.


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NUHSA Board Member named to King County advisory panel on transit mobility


The Metropolitan King County Council today gave its unanimous approval to the members appointed by the County Executive who will explore developing fare programs for low income communities who use public transit as their primary source of transportation.

Rob Beem, board member of the North Urban Human Services group, and Shoreline city staffer, was named to the advisory panel.

Council Chair Larry Gossett, prime sponsor of the motion, said that
“The goal of the committee is to explore how we continue to provide vital transit service that is both accessible and affordable to all transit users. The makeup of the committee ensures that a wide range of voices—including those who depend on Metro as their only source of transportation—will help in providing the information we need.”
Larry Phillips, chair of the Council's Transportation, Economy and Environment Committee, added 
“The economic downturn, the end of the Ride Free Area, and transit fares increases have made it harder for low- and no-income people to get to work and appointments on public transportation. I thank the members of the Low Income Fare Advisory Committee for their commitment to coming up with recommendations for making King County’s public transit system accessible to people of limited means.”

In October 2012, the Council took the proactive step of addressing the mobility needs of low-income residents throughout King County by unanimously adopting the formation of the advisory panel.  The group, which consists of representatives from a wide range of human service agencies as well as those who might benefit from the recommendation of the panel, will assist in the development of public transportation fare programs for low income communities in support of the “fair and just” principles that are part of the King County Strategic Plan.

The scope of work for the committee includes a number of issues:

  1. Establishing a common understanding of mobility barriers for low income populations, and how transit fare price points affect access and use of transit by low-income persons;
  2. Reviewing the different types of transit fare options available to meet the mobility needs of low-income persons;
  3. Reviewing costs of potential King County low income fare programs;
  4. Recommend definitions of low income to be used for the implementation of transit fare programs;
  5. Making prioritized recommendations related to the establishment of King County low-income fare programs;
  6. Identifying different options for funding low income fare programs and potential partners that may be willing to support such programs;
  7. Identifying opportunities and recommendations for regional low income fare programs for potential consideration by agency partners of the ORCA joint board.

The committee would present its recommendations to the Council this summer.


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59 utility poles in Lake Forest Park to be replaced


Lake Forest Park pole replacement starts February 4th

Seattle City Light’s contractor, Potelco, will be replacing fifty-nine aging utility poles in portions of Lake Forest Park beginning in February. Affected customers will be receiving a letter detailing the work. The project is necessary maintenance and will improve electrical reliability.

Besides installing the new poles, crews will relocate the old pole’s electrical wires to the new poles and replace equipment.

The start date for work is February 4, 2013 and the project should take six to eight weeks. Once the electrical equipment is relocated to the new poles it will take a few weeks for the other utility companies to make their transfer, so City Light can remove the old pole. City Light will monitor the situation to ensure the old poles are removed in a timely manner.


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Death notices as of January 22, 2013

Obituaries are condensed biographies of people's lives, written by the people who loved them. Like a memorial service, they tell us things we may not have known about the person, and may leave us wishing we had known them better.


Ronald L. Bullock  1957-2012  Shoreline resident. As a college student he designed the first computerized scheduling system for the Seattle Parks Department.

Ruth Chamberlin (Reiss) McQuaker  1922-2012  Lived at Aegis of Shoreline the last seven years of her life.

Donald N. Griffin  age 86  Pastor Don was an ordained Presbyterian minister who served six congregations over 60 years. Services were held at Lake Forest Park Presbyterian Church where a memorial fund has been set up in his name.

Virginia Elizabeth Chambers  1926-2012  Taught at the Acorn Academy at Shoreline Community College.

Gloria Jean McDaniel  1944-2012  Graduated from Shoreline High School in 1962.

Cecile "Memere" Beaudoin   1926-2012  Died Christmas Day in Shoreline. Lived at Aegis Callahan House.

Beverly Clauson  1927-2012  Memorial services at First Lutheran Church of Richmond Beach.

Dorothy M. Johnson  1918-2012  Long-time resident of Shoreline. Employed as a nurse at Northgate Hospital. Active in her church and Shoreline YMCA. Services at St. Mark Parish.

William "Bill" R. Pontious  age 68  Construction project manager who worked all over the world. Services at Shoreline Church of the Nazarene.

Deanna Fournier  age 64  Graduated from Shoreline High in 1966 and attended Shoreline Community College. Worked at Fircrest School, retiring in 2010.

Jesse Milton Grigsby  1931-2012  Active in Bethel Lutheran Church for nearly 50 years where he ushered and served on its board.

Robert K. Smith  1920-2012  Died in Shoreline at the age of 92.

Shirley E. Merendino  1918-2012  Organized the first Girl Scout troop in Shoreline. Among many civic activities she was active in The Highlands Unit of the Children's Hospital guild, and a devoted participant of St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church.

Elna M. Yantis  1931-2013  She and her husband moved to Shoreline in 1965 and raised three boys here. She was a speech therapist and administrator for Edmonds School District until she retired in 1991.

Christopher W. Manning  1986-2013  Raised in Shoreline, attended St. Luke School. Services held at St. Luke Catholic Church in Shoreline.

Mary Theresa Contenta  1927-2013  Lived in Lynnwood, passed away in Shoreline.

Margaret "Peggy" Smith  1923-2013  Timpanist for Bremerton Symphony, office manager for Rev. Dale Turner. Passed away at Crista in Shoreline.

Kristina Anne (Lind) Miller  1953-2013  Born and raised in Shoreline. Graduated from Shoreline High School.

Joyce Elaine Malakoff  1933-2013  A memorial service was held at her Lake Forest Park home. "her garden was admired for its beautiful display of unusual plants and flowers."

Claire E. (Joe) Erickson  1917-2013  Woodworker, construction and painting contractor, painting supervisor at Shoreline School District from which he retired in 1976. Services at Berean Bible Church in Shoreline.

John S. Satterthwaite  1924-2013  Engineer-contractor who worked and lived up and down the west coast, but retired to Shoreline in 1999. Services at First Lutheran Church of Richmond Beach.

Marjorie Elaine Cannon  1926-2013  Lived in Kenmore. Services at Aurora Church of the Nazarene.

Olga Signe (Larsen) Madsen  1915-2013  of Shoreline, passed away at Crista. "Proud of her Norwegian heritage, she was a wonderful cook, seamstress and gardener."

Joan M. Meredith  -2013  a celebration of her life was held at Joan's home in the Forest Hills condos in Shoreline.

Robert D. Robertson  age 87  Passed away peacefully at his home in Shoreline.


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Masha Shtikel of Shorewood leads Wesco 3A South in scoring

Shorewood Center Masha Shtikel
Photo by Wayne Pridemore


Shorewood center Masha Shtikel leads the Wesco 3A South Division in scoring going into a Wednesday game at Meadowdale.

Shtikel has scored 312 points in 16 games for an average of 19.5 points per game.

The Thunderbirds (9-1 Western Conference 3A, 11-3 overall) can clinch home-court advantage in the first round of the Northwest District 3A tournament with a victory over Meadowdale (6-3 Wesco 3A, 11-5). Both teams already have clinched berths in the tournament.

The Shorewood junior varsity team meets Meadowdale at 5:40pm Wednesday with the C-team game at 3:45pm.


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Meadowdale knocks off Shorewood wrestling

In the 182 lb. class Meadowdale’s Josiah Evans, on left,
meets Konnor Carpenter of Shorewood.
Photo by Wayne Pridemore


Shorewood could not match the depth Meadowdale had Tuesday night as they lost 52-30 in their last dual meet of the season.

After the first six matches it was a tie score at 18 apiece, but Shorewood would only win two of the next eight matches.

Thunderbird Andrew Chum has a lock on his opponent in the 170 lb. class.
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

In a possible preview of next week's district title at 145 lbs Meadowdale senior Nate Tibbott wrestled Thunderbird sophomore Braden Kalloway. Kalloway pinned Tibbits on his back before being reversed to his back and getting pinned in the second round.

Shorewood Record: 7-6 Overall, 2-2 League
SW 30 - MD 52

106: Adrian Guzman (MD) win by forfeit
*113: Mark Evanks (MD) pinned Abiel Tesfamarian 2:29
120: Beck Millet (MD) win by forfeit
126: Edom Tesfaye (SW) pinned Ryan Kieith 1:07
132: Matthew Floresca (SW) pinned Trevor Coleman 3:05
138: Rikio Campbell (SW) pinned Luke Lindergin 1:05
145: Nate Tibbott (MD) pinned Braden Kalloway 3:25
152: Colton Davis (MD) maj. dec. Dawda Dibba 16-2
160: Morgan Smith (MD) pinned Nathan Lee 3:47
170: Mason Smith (MD) pinned Andrew Chum 4:16
182: Konnor Carpenter (SW) pinned Josiah Evans 3:07
195: Crayson Wallace(MD) win by forfeit
220: Ciaron Ball (MD) win by forfeit
285: Erca Erdenebayer (SW) pinned Tim Smith 2:10

In the final match of the evening Shorewood’s
Erca Erdenebayer works his opponent in the 285 lb. class.
Photo by Wayne Pridemore


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Today's Business: Euro Deli - Lakomka

Monday, January 21, 2013

Euro Deli Lakomka
Photo by Marc Weinberg


Euro Deli - Lakomka, 20011 Aurora Ave. North in Shoreline -  (NW corner of 200th and Aurora)
By Marc Weinberg

I know many people who emigrated to the United States. For those who were at least teenagers at that time they left their country,  one thing they all seem to have in common is that they miss certain foods and beverages. I often hear  comments about the bread in the US isn't as good as....,  or I can't find the cheese we used to have with....., or why don't we have the smoked fish or beer I remember having with my family and friends. And so it goes like that.


Flavors from another culture at the Euro Deli
Photo by Marc Weinberg

Here's the perfect chance for some enterprising people to fill the void for not only emigrants from other countries, but to promote the interest in flavors for another culture to long time residents of the US.

And that's exactly what Maria and Gino have created with Euro Deli - Lakomka (translation = gourmet). Euro Deli Lakomka is on Aurora Ave N. just north of 200th St near the NW corner, 20011 Aurora Ave N, 206-629-5478. Hours Mon-Sat 11am-9pm, Sunday 12-6pm.


You'll be surprised by the variety of meats and cheeses
Photo by Marc Weinberg

For a small store you'll be surprised by the variety of meats, cheeses and other flavors in the cold cases. Then there are shelves of everyday and specialty foods, candies and drinks. My particular favorites are the breads and rolls imported from Germany.

I don't know how they do it, but Gino has me hooked on one bread. Now I don't even have to go in to find out if he has a fresh one for me. I just call and ask for him to pop one in the oven and I stop by around 4pm and there it is - still warm and waiting for me. I love it. Yes, I mean the bread, but also the special friendship and chat I have with Maria and Gino. One day I happened to tell Gino I was remodeling my garage and for a few weeks after he never failed to ask 'how is the garage project going?'  In our hurried world and big crowded stores, even though you may go to them often, it isn't the same as going to 'your deli' and having a chat with the folks behind the counter.

Give Euro Deli Lakomka a try. Experiment with some of the foods if you're not familiar with them.  You may even be eating something like it now and don't know where it originated.  Learn something new about foreign flavors and tell your friends. I'm sure you will like it. And please, be sure to say 'hi' to Gino and Maria and tell them you heard about them from me. 


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Rep Farrell gets State House leadership position

Rep. Jessyn Farrell
Newly Elected Democratic 46th District State Rep. Jessyn Farrell has been named assistant majority whip.

Farrell was elected in November to the 46th Legislative District seat that retired Democratic Rep. Phyllis Kenny previously held.

Fellow House Democrats chose Farrell to be part of the party’s House leadership team for the 2013 legislative session.

As an assistant majority whip, Farrell will aid the majority whip, Rep. Kevin Van DeWege of Sequim, with internal caucus matters such as member attendance, vote tallying, and new member mentorship.

“I am very excited to serve our caucus in this role,” Farrell said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to create family-wage jobs, fully fund our education system, protect our environment, and provide opportunity for all Washingtonians.”

House Democrats elected their top leaders in late November 2012, but left the two assistant whip positions open until the beginning of legislative session. Another freshman Democrat, Rep. Marcus Riccelli of Spokane, was elected to the second spot.

In addition to her leadership position, Farrell will also serve on the Environment Committee, Early Learning and Human Services Committee, and Transportation Committee.

Her district includes Lake Forest Park, Kenmore and northeast Seattle.


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Critical Mass at Tula's January 29 with conductor Keith McClelland



Shoreline resident Keith McClellan reports a fabulous turn out at the North City Bistro with his Shear Jazz tribute to Dave Brubeck on January 11. Pat and Larry at the Bistro reported a sell out! They've asked the group back in the early spring. 

That night Keith announced that Critical Mass, the 16-piece jazz orchestra he conducts, will play Tula's on January 29. Featured artist is Bill Ramsay.

Tula's is in downtown Seattle, 2214 Second Ave, 206-443-4221. $15 cover and reservations strongly recommended.


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Savvy Seniors: Steps to Avoiding Scams



January is Stalking Awareness Month. Not all who stalk intend physical harm. Many stalk in order to steal from older adults.

In November 2012, the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report to Congressional Requesters calling the financial exploitation of seniors “an epidemic with society-wide repercussions.” In 2010 alone, older adults were scammed out of $2.9 billion. 

Once scammed, Seniors often cannot replace lost resources. People have lost their financial ability to remain independent. For some, the losses can be so devastating that there is a rapid decline in health.

The Calvin Presbyterian Church Fitness and Wellness Program is designed to help older adults gain strength, improve balance, and build confidence in order to preserve their independence.

Would you like to learn about the ten most popular scams? We will talk about the eight ways you can protect yourself. Know that you are doing all that is in your power to prevent cyber-stalking.  You will leave knowing exactly what to do if somebody scams you.

If you think you are completely safe, come to hear the wrenching personal story of one family. There will be expert guest speakers from local government, community business, and law enforcement.

Friday, January 25th, 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm 
18826 3rd Ave NW 98177
206-542-6181
$10

Shoreline Councilwoman Doris McConnell will present opening remarks. Free handbook to take home to the first 35 attendees from the National Council on Aging.

For questions, or to volunteer contact Coach Lisa 206-524-6788.

Future Seminars:

  • Feb 22 - Heart Healthy Eating 
  • Mar 22 - Medication Safety Training 
  • Apr 26 - Alcohol Awareness 
  • May 24 - Nordic Walking Clinic



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Thursdays are Write Nights in Shoreline


Write Night, a weekly writer's support/critique class for fiction and nonfiction writers, meets Thursdays in Shoreline. Writers of all levels are welcome.

Enjoy mini workshops, writing exercises, coaching, and a chance to share your writing with people who understand you. Get regular feedback, publishing and marketing advice and create a support system for your writing life. Write Night can become your built-in deadline and will help you write more, high-quality manuscripts.

The class meets at the Richmond Masonic Hall, 185th St and Linden Ave N, 6:45- 9pm.

Instructors are Christine Dubois, an awarding-winning nonfiction writer and editor, and Leslie Adkins, a fiction writer and well received writing instructor all around the Northwest.

“Chris and Leslie have created a truly beautiful forum for writers - respectful and genuine,” says Rob, a Write Night regular. “Personally, I know that this group has improved my writing exponentially. It is a very special group. I'm just glad I found them.”

Cost for Write Night is $90 for a 6-week session. Drop ins are welcome at $20/class. The next session runs Feb. 21-March 28.

For more information, email or look for Write Night on Facebook.


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Wine and Watercolors Party in Bothell

Winter Wonderland by Charlene Collins Freeman


The Kaewyn Gallery is hosting its first wine and watercolors party on February 23rd, from 6-9pm in Bothell at FrameWright, 10101 Main Street, Bothell, WA  98011. Directions and Map.

Charlene Collins Freeman will be your art instructor for the evening as you create your own version of her winter wonderland watercolor, The Holidays.

The cost is $50/person or $90/couple. The fee covers art instruction, art supplies, appetizers and two glasses of wine per participant.

RSVP to Charlene by February 18.


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Executive Constantine congratulates Chris Hansen and partners on purchase agreement for NBA franchise


King County Executive Dow Constantine today congratulated Chris Hansen and his investment partners on reaching agreement for purchase of an NBA franchise:

"The return of our hometown team is now within reach. 
“I was a high school kid in the spring of 1979 when I joined 300,000 fellow fans on the streets of downtown Seattle to celebrate our Supersonics winning the NBA Championship. Those were great days for our community. 
“Thanks to Chris Hansen and his investment partners Steve Ballmer, Peter and Erik Nordstrom, and the strength of regional partnerships and our collective can-do spirit, we can now look forward to celebrating the day we can say, "Welcome home, Sonics!”


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Dancers perform at Hoopapalooza half-time show

Two dance teams from Shorecrest High School performed at the half-time show for the girls' basketball game between Shorecrest and Shorewood for Hoopapalooza IV.

Shorecrest Highland Dancers perform at Hoopapalooza IV
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

Shorecrest Hip Hop Dance Team at Hoopapalooza
Photo by Wayne Pridemore


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Shorecrest wrestlers host Glacier Peak Tuesday; Shorewood wrestles at Meadowdale


The Shorecrest wrestling team plays host to Glacier Peak Tuesday, while Shorewood wrestles at Meadowdale.

Shorecrest takes a 0-2 Western Conference 3A South Division dual-meet record (3-7 overall) into the match with division-leading Glacier Peak (2-0 Wesco 3A South, 6-1) at 7 p..m. Tuesday at Shorecrest High School.

Second-place Shorewood takes a 2-1 Wesco 3A South record (6-4) into the match at Meadowdale (1-1, 6-3), also at 7 p.m. Tuesday.

Shorewood defeated Shorecrest 42-28 last week.



WESCO 3A SOUTH WRESTLING STANDINGS
Team ------------------ Division -- overall
Glacier Peak ------------ 2-0 --------- 6-1
Shorewood ------------- 2-1 --------- 6-4
Meadowdale ------------ 1-1 --------- 6-3
Mountlake Terrace -- -1-2 --------- 2-7
Shorecrest -------------  0-2 -------- 3-7

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Burn bans lifted for King and Snohomish counties


The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency is lifting the air quality burn bans in King and Snohomish counties, effective at 1pm on January 21, 2013. A Stage 1 burn ban continues for Pierce County until further notice.

"We are lifting the burn bans in King and Snohomish counties because winds are picking up and temperatures are warming," said Dr. Phil Swartzendruber, agency forecaster. "But Pierce County is still under the influence of cold and calm conditions, which could cause pollution to build up in areas where wood-burning is common. We need to keep a Stage 1 burn ban in effect to protect air quality in those communities."

Clean Air Agency staff follow a protocol set by state law to determine when and where to issue a burn ban, and when to lift a burn ban.


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Robber hitting coffee shops in Shoreline, LFP, Bothell


Our news partner KING 5 reports a serial robber is hitting sandwich and coffee shops in Shoreline, Bothell, and Lake Forest Park.

A man wearing a hooded sweatshirt and bandana on his face tried to rob a coffee stand in Bothell on Saturday.
    
That occurred after robberies at Subway sandwich shops in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park on Saturday.

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King County honors its namesake for the 26th year

Sunday, January 20, 2013



Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. remembered at annual event

Hundreds of people filled the 5th Avenue Theatre in downtown Seattle on January 17, 2013 to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during King County's 26th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. The theme for this year’s event was “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

 “Dr. King told us something very important: we are all connected,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine, the keynote speaker for today’s celebration. “Every success is built on a network of support. The actions we take as a county to create strong, healthy, and vibrant communities benefit us all.”

 "This week as we celebrate Dr. King’s birthday, we are also cognizant that it is the 50th anniversary of the ‘March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom’ where Dr. King gave his renowned speech, ‘I Have a Dream,’” said King County Council Chair Larry Gossett. “Many of the issues that Dr. King spoke about at the March on Washington remain relevant today, reminding us that we have a long way to go to reaching equality and freedom in the U.S. and abroad. However, the one big difference on Monday is that on Dr. King’s birthday this year, our nation will be seeing an African-American President sworn in for his second term.”


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Lake Forest Park seeking volunteers for Commissions and Committees



Looking for ways to become more involved in your local government? Does influencing and improving the quality of your City’s decision-making sound appealing? Then serving on a Lake Forest Park commission or committee may be just for you!

Citizen advisory commissions and committees are extremely important in Lake Forest Park. If you are a resident of Lake Forest Park and are interested in working with fellow community members to help recommend policies and ideas to the Mayor and City Council then you meet the qualifications to be considered for service. Our current commissions and committees have taken active roles in impacting the City today and helping make it a better place for tomorrow.

If you’re interested in serving, please contact Mayor Mary Jane Goss at City Hall at 206-368-5440.


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Gardening with Jennifer: January’s Bounty - The Joy of Seed Catalogs

Updated and corrected 1-21-2013 9:16pm

Seed Packets from a Local Seed Farms
Photo by Jennifer Rotermund

By Jennifer Rotermund

The world did not end in 2012, but our frosty, dreary January gardens look like they didn’t get that memo. How does a gardener survive until Spring?! Answer: by taking advantage of indoor plant sales at local nurseries and drooling over seed catalogs! Any seasoned gardener knows that there is always something to look forward to after all of the holiday hubbub passes - oh, the joy of Seed Catalogs! What possibilities! So much inspiration placed in front of our eyes, captured in small sunny brightly-colored photographs of every flower and vegetable you can image. Who knew that Winter’s grey skies had already dulled our memory of Summer’s vibrant colors. This is the beauty of the seed catalog.

But there are so many. “Ugh, the seed catalogs have begun to arrive,” a friend recently sighed. As if these catalogs arrived and sorted themselves neatly into two boxes, one sitting on each of her shoulders, weighing her down. Don’t let that happen to you! Gardening is not a burden - it’s a joy! - and therefore garden planning is best enjoyed as a Winter indulgence, a time to let your imagination run wild and bring inspiration back into your life! If it’s anything less than that, I question whether gardening is for you. Save yourself from overwhelm by being picky about which catalogs you receive and from which farms or nurseries you purchase.


Lettuce Seed I Grew and Harvested
Photo courtesy Jennifer Rotermund

My first criterion is that the company grows organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) seed or plants. Monsanto and its subsidiaries are the source of most GMO (genetically modified organisms) or GE (genetically engineered) seeds and plants. These companies maintain that their products provide for a more sustainable planet, but there is an increasing body of evidence to the contrary. The Institute for Responsible Technology provides a thorough explanation. You can even take it a step further and look for companies that offer “open-pollinated” and “heirloom” seeds. Monsanto is steadily buying up the legal rights to many of our favorite garden-variety seeds (like Burpee’s Big Boy tomato) and selling them through their seed-selling company, Seminis, These seeds are either modified to be sterile (i.e. they won’t produce viable seeds you can save) or if you do save the seeds, Monsanto can slap you with a lawsuit - and they are actively doing this. Buying open-pollinated, heirloom seeds will ensure not only high quality, healthy seed, but seeds you have the freedom to save and grow year after year.

Nigella (Love In A Mist) Wildflower Seed I Grew and Harvested
Photo courtesy Jennifer Rotermund

My other criterion involves what I call the “small-local factor.” I don’t like the idea that the seeds I buy were grown on a industrial mega-farm, mass-processed through a giant seed packaging factory, and then sold in a big box store that pays our friends and neighbors who work there something barely over minimum wage. Our gardens are intimate spaces and our food directly correlates to our health - neither of which can be qualitatively sustained by a big corporation. And, in a world increasingly driven by gadgets supplying us with instant access to the world, I find great comfort in being on a first name basis with the person who grows my food - or at least knowing the name of their family farm. I can see the passion in their eyes when they tell me about the product they grew, and that’s where I wish to put my money. Whenever possible, I seek out a small seed-producing farm or seed-selling business. Likewise, when the seeds or plants you buy are grown in your region, they’re much more likely to succeed in your garden. Like any local, they understand the culture and know what to expect!

The following are a few of my favorite companies


From the Northwest:



Some Great Non-Local Companies and Organizations to know about are:



Happy Garden Planning!

Jennifer Rotermund is the owner of Gaiaceous Gardens (an urban farming and wildlife gardening business with a teaching garden/urban farm and certified wildlife habitat / sanctuary located in Shoreline). She is certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a Habitat Steward and is a Docent at the Kruckeberg Botanic Garden.


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ECA presents Portland Cello Project and Zoe Keating

Zoe Keating uses technology
to create layered sound for her cello
Portland Cello Project and Zoe Keating, Saturday January 26, 2013, 7:30pm at the Edmonds Center for the Arts

Sponsored by: David and Ruth Arista/Arista Wine Cellars and Edmonds Bookshop  
Ticket prices are $25-$35, $15 youth

A contemporary cello tour de force, Zoe Keating is a one woman orchestra who combines  classical music sensibility with state of the art electronics.  ZoĂ« is known for both her use of technology - which she uses to sample her cello onstage - and for her DIY ethic which has resulted in the sale of over 45,000 copies of her self-released albums and a devoted social media following.

Born in Canada and classically trained from the age of eight, Zoë obtained a liberal art degree from Sarah Lawrence College and then spent her 20's working in software while moonlighting as a cellist in rock bands.

In 2003 Zoë quit her comfortable tech job to focus on her layered cello music. Her project drew little interest from anyone in the music industry and since observation of the career trajectories of signed bands had already made her wary of record contracts, she made the choice to release her music online without a label, believing that her listeners were out there and she just needed to find them. See her performance at the 2011 MacWorld conference here.

The Portland Cello Project has wowed audiences all over the country with extravagant performances, mixing genres and blurring musical lines and perceptions wherever they go.  Portland Cello brings their unique stamp to everything from Beethoven to Arvo Part to instrumental covers of Kanye West and Pantera.  Listen here to a live performance from the KEXP-FM studios in Seattle.

Edmonds Center for the Arts is located at 410 4th Avenue North, Edmonds, WA 98020.
425-275-4485


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Sky Nursery - fruit tree selection and care Jan 26

Saturday, January 26th 11:00 am – 12:30 pm

Fruit Tree Selection and Care with Charlie Shull

Charlie will go over everything the beginning (or not-so-beginning) orchardist needs to know.  Where to site your trees, the best varieties for western Washington (and for you), how to plant, fertilize, prune, and deal with problems.

After the presentation, Charlie will be available to answer questions. 

Sky Nursery 18528 Aurora Ave N Shoreline 206-546-4851 

Check the events calendar as the event approaches for a detailed schedule for the day.


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Sound Transit thanks riders, featured on Japanese travel show

Joni Earl, CEO
Sound Transit

Selected stories from the CEO Newsletter of January 18, 2013

Tabi Salad

Sometimes you’ll find more than trains and passengers at our Link light rail stations. That was true earlier this week when a Japanese film crew rode a Link train to the SeaTac/Airport Station gathering footage for an upcoming episode of “Tabi Salad.”

OK, you’ve probably never seen the show, but Tabi Salad is a travel program watched by more than four million households throughout Japan. It highlights iconic destinations around the world and Seattle is featured in an episode that will air in Japan next month.

On Tuesday, the show’s host was filmed buying a ticket and riding Link to the airport, which brought a few stares from regular passengers but no disruption of service. Link is becoming a popular backdrop for various television shows, movies and commercials that are filmed in Seattle.

Thanks to our riders

I was very happy to see so many passengers returning this week to ride our Sounder North Line service between Everett and Seattle. Mudslides have knocked out North Line service in record numbers this winter and we’re continuing to work with the state Department of Transportation and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railways on the problem.

Thanks again to our loyal customers for their patience and for sending us letters of appreciation about the staff members who helped with the special bus service during the service disruption.


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Shorecrest basketball teams fight for spots in district tournament - Shorewood already in

When the Shorecrest boys' basketball team plays at Glacier Peak Tuesday and the Scot girls' team plays host to Glacier Peak Wednesday, both will be fighting for berths in the Northwest District 3A tournaments.

The Shorewood, Glacier Peak and Mountlake Terrace boys' teams, and the Shorewood, Glacier Peak and Meadowdale girls' teams already have qualified for the District tournament from the Western Conference 3A South Division, with only the Stanwood boys and girls having clinched berths from the Wesco 3A North.

The top three teams in each of the two Wesco 3A divisions qualify for the eight-team District tournament, along with the top two teams from among the remaining teams in the two Wesco 3A divisions and Ferndale, the only 3A team in the Northwest 3A/2A/1A Conference.

With Ferndale having clinched a place in the girls’ tournament and being likely to take one of the boys’ tournament berths, the Shorecrest teams could qualify for District play with the better fourth-place record in the two Wesco 3A divisions.

Currently, the Shorecrest girls hold that spot with a 5-4 Wesco 3A record (8-8 overall) and can clinch a district berth with one victory in their last four games or two losses by either Marysville-Pilchuck or Oak Harbor of the Wesco 3A North or one loss by Mountlake Terrace of the Wesco 3A South. The Shorecrest girls also can tie Meadowdale (6-3 Wesco 3A, 11-5) for third in the South and clinch a tournament berth with a victory over Glacier Peak (7-2, 12-4) and a Meadowdale home loss to Shorewood (8-1, 13-3).

The Shorecrest boys also hold fourth in the Wesco 3A South with a 3-6 Wesco 3A record (9-7 overall) and can hold that position with two victories in their last four games or two Meadowdale losses or with one victory and one Meadowdale loss. The Scots can hold off Wesco-3A-Norh fourth-place Everett with any combination of Shorecrest wins and Everett losses adding up to three.

The Shorewood boys take an 8-1 Wesco 3A record (13-3 overall) into a home game with Meadowdale (1-8 Wesco 3A, 3-13) Tuesday at 7:15 p.m. with the Thunderbird junior varsity (3-6, 8-8) meeting Meadowdale (5-4, 8-5) at 5:40 and the "C" team (7-2, 11-5) playing Meadowdale (5-4. 9-4) at 3:45. Shorecrest takes its 3-6 (9-7) record into the game at Glacier Peak (7-2, 13-3) Tuesday at 7:15, with the Shorecrest JVs (7-2, 12-3) meeting Glacier Peak (6-3, 10-5) at 5:40 and the Scot C-team playing Glacier Peak (5-4, 7-6) at 345.

The Shorecrest girls play Glacier Peak at home Wednesday at 7:15 p.m., with the junior varsity team (7-2, 11-5) meeting Glacier Peak at 5:40. The Shorewood girls take an 8-1 (13-3) record into a game at Meadowdale Wednesday at 7:15, with the JV team (4-4, 7-7) meeting Meadowdale (8-1, 14-2) at 5:40 and a C-team game at 3:45. The Shorecrest girls’ junior varsity defeated Shorewood Saturday, 44-34.

The Shorewood boys’ and girls’ teams need to hold their current positions to get to play their opening tournament games at home, an honor given to the top four boys’ and girls’ teams.

Wesco 3A North

 Conf.  
Overall
 Team
W
L
W
L
“Stanwood
8
1
11
5
Oak Harbor
4
5
8
8
Marysville-Getchell
4
5
6
10
Everett
2
7
5
11
Marysville-Pilchuck
0
9
0
16
Northwest 3A
Ferndale
5
3
8
8

Wesco 3A South
*Mountake Terrace -- 8-1 (14-2)
*Shorewood ---------- 8-1 (13-3)
+Glacier Peak --------- 7-2 (13-3)
Shorecrest ------------ 3-6 (9-7)

Meadowdale ---------- 1-8 (3-13)

Girls’ Basketball Standings
 Wesco 3A South
 Conf.  
Overall
 Team
W
L
W
L
*Shorewood
8
1
13
3
*Glacier Peak
7
2
12
4
*Meadowdale
6
3
11
5
Shorecrest
5
4
8
8
Mountlake Terrace
2
7
4
11
*Clinched Northwest District 3A tournament berth

 Conf.  
Overall

W
L
W
L
*Stanwood
9
0
14
2
Everett
3
6
7
9
Marysville-Pilchuck
2
6
4
10
Oak Harbor
2
7
5
11
Marysville-Getchell
0
8
2
13
Northwest 3A
*Ferndale
8
0
14
1

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