Wanted: Co-Ed Softball Teams

Friday, June 14, 2013

This could be you!

The City of Shoreline Parks and Recreation Department is looking for Co-Ed softball teams to participate in their Summer Softball League. All games take place in Shoreline beginning on June 26th.

This is a recreational league. Doubleheaders are played on Wednesdays after 6:00pm. If you are interested in participating contact Courtney Brown at 206-801-2635.


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Local pastor's email hacked - he is safe at home

The Ridgecrest Neighborhood Association reports that Pastor Ruhlman, from Tabernacle Baptist Church in the Ridgecrest Neighborhood, did not send an email message telling people that he was robbed at gun-point and is stuck in the Philippines - and he does not want you to send money to him there.

Pastor Ruhlman is safe and sound, here in the US.

This particular email scam has been around for years, but if you have never received one, it can be very convincing. You receive an email from someone you know, from their correct email address. The message says that they are visiting in a foreign country (logical in the summer, right?), and they have been robbed of their money and passport. They need just enough money to get to the nearest American Embassy - and can you please wire them money?

The victims respond to the stress and urgency in the message and act quickly to come to the rescue, only finding out later that they have been scammed.

Usually the person whose email was hacked has no idea any of this is happening. However, in Pastor Ruhlman's case there was an evil twist. Whoever hacked his address book not only sent the Rescue Me message to everyone in his address book, they deleted all his addresses.


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Shoreline Pool is open for business



The Shoreline pool opened for regularly scheduled programming beginning Wednesday, June 12 at 5:30am. 

Thank you for your patience as we worked through the issues involved in installing a new boiler in our aging facility. Please call the pool at (206) 801-2650 #4 with questions. We apologize for any inconvenience the pool closure has caused and we look forward to seeing you back in the water!

The Shoreline Pool offers lessons for all ages, lap swims, pool rentals and water safety classes. 19030 1st Avenue NE. Shoreline, WA 98155, 206-801-2650.





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Edmonds Arts Festival Friday, Saturday, Sunday



The Edmonds Arts Festival - Friday, Saturday, Sunday, June 14-16 - is a huge, free event centered around the Frances Anderson Cultural Center in the Edmonds bowl at 700 Main Street, Edmonds, WA, 98020,

This family friendly event has arts, shopping, performing arts, food and a fun atmosphere.

Do not even try to drive to the event - instead park at the old Woodway High School, 23200 100th Ave W, Edmonds, and take the frequent shuttle busses. They run about every 15 minutes and drop you off (and pick you up) right in front of the Edmonds Library, adjacent to the Anderson Center.


Edmonds Arts Festival
June 14, 15 and 16, 2013 
Fri and Sat 10a-8p; Sun 10a-6p
700 Main Street
Edmonds, WA 98020



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County Council to hold public hearing on sale of surplus county property to city of Shoreline

The 'decant facility' by Brugger's Bog
Photo by Steven H. Robinson


The Metropolitan King County Council will hold a public hearing on Monday, June 24, 2013 to take testimony on a proposed ordinance that would authorize the execution of an agreement for the sale of surplus King County property to the city of Shoreline.

The public hearing on the proposed sale will be held before the full council at the King County Courthouse, Room 1001 on Monday, June 24, 2013, at 1:30pm.

The city of Shoreline is acquiring a 2.87 acre surplus parcel commonly referred to as the Brugger’s Bog facility from the King County Roads Services Division. The site was previously used as the North maintenance site for the Roads Services Division.

After the city of Kirkland annexed the Juanita/Kingsgate/Finn Hill areas, the Roads Services Division declared the property surplus to its needs and an agreement to sell the site to the city of Shoreline was developed.

This property is located in the city of Shoreline at 19547 25th Avenue Northeast in District 1. Shoreline plans to continue to use the property for maintenance purposes.

Copies of proposed ordinance 2013-0155 are available upon request from the Clerk of the King County Council, Room 1200, King County Courthouse, 516 Third Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104, telephone 206-296-1020. The ordinance is also available online.

The purchase was recently approved by the Shoreline City Council.



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Shoreline police blockade neighborhood to search for burglars

Thursday, June 13, 2013

At about 7pm Thursday evening, homeowners in the 197th block of 10 Ave NE returned home to find a suspicious black Dodge truck in their driveway. The homeowner contacted the driver (slender white female, 20-30 years old, with shoulder length blond hair) and asked what she needed. She claimed she had vehicle trouble but quickly fled in the vehicle southbound.

The homeowner then encountered another suspect (white male, 20-30 years old, dark hair) in the backyard. This suspect fled on foot over the fence, also headed southbound.

Now realizing that the suspects had burglarized and ransacked his home, he called 911. Shoreline Police quickly established a perimeter and the black truck was located unoccupied two blocks south of the scene.  

The K9 unit responded and tracked the suspects in a south-west pattern. It is believed that the suspects dumped the vehicle and fled on foot over the I-5 pedestrian bridge on NE 195th. The K9 track ended in the 19600 block of 5th Ave NE where they most likely fled in another vehicle.

The suspects are still outstanding. The black truck has been impounded and will be processed by detectives over the next few days.

Neighbors who came upon the scene while the search was still in process were startled to be met by police blockades.

Anyone with any information about this crime can call the 24-Hour Non Emergency line at 206-296-3311, or call 911 and say "non emergency".


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New cell tower installed in Kenmore


Jerry Pickard stopped for lunch at the Taco Time restaurant on the corner of 68th Ave NE and NE 181st St in Kenmore and noticed a new cell tower in process of being installed.  So naturally he got out his camera and took a few pictures.



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Dale Turner Family YMCA Summer Meals Program for children


Just as learning does not end when school lets out, neither does a child’s need for good nutrition.

The Dale Turner Family TMCA is proud to announce the sponsorship of the Summer Food Service Program for Children (SFSP), which provides free, nutritious meals and snacks to help children get the nutrition they need to learn, play and grow throughout the summer months when they are out of school.

Hunger is one of the most severe roadblocks to the learning process. Lack of nutrition during the summer months may set up a cycle for poor performance once school begins again. 

Hunger also may make children more prone to illness and other health issues. The SFSP is designed to fill out nutrition game and make sure children can get the nutritious meal they need. Meals will be made available at no charge to attending children 18 years of age and younger.

Meals will be provided at the following sites
plus one in Bothell

The Vineyard Church/Turning Point
1315 N 160th St Shoreline WA 98133
July 9 – August 1; Tuesdays and Thursdays
Lunch 12:00pm-1:00pm

Contact: Anna Ketola 425-770-6373

Ronald United Methodist
17839 Aurora Ave N Shoreline WA 98133
June 24 – August 29; Monday - Thursday
Lunch 11:45am-12:45pm
Contact: Bryana Hoffman, 206-569-7014

Kenmore Elementary School
19121 71st Ave NW Kenmore WA 98028
July 8 – August 30; Monday - Friday
Lunch 12:00pm-1:00pm
Contact: Abbey Reed 425-485-9797


Turning Point days and contact person corrected 06-20-2013 10:54pm

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Study confirms evidence of human fecal bacteria in Seattle’s Thornton Creek



The Thornton Creek Watershed reaches into Shoreline as far as NE 193rd.

A two-year investigation by Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) has confirmed human fecal bacteria are likely entering North Seattle’s Thornton Creek at multiple locations.

Funded by the Washington Department of Ecology and led by SPU stormwater scientist Jonathan Frodge, the study was based on samples collected at 45 sites throughout the watershed, under a variety of conditions

It has been known for years that fecal coliform bacteria concentrations in Thornton Creek exceed the state water quality standard and pose a potential threat to public health. The new study confirms human bacteria are present and contribute to the water quality problem. The study is also the first to identify sub-basins (general areas) where bacteria appear to be entering the stream.

The study is seen as an important step toward identifying and correcting bacterial sources in the creek.

Among the most urbanized streams in King County, Thornton Creek consistently ranks among the highest for fecal coliform bacteria.

SPU stormwater investigators are continuing their work to locate sources of bacteria in the creek, and will be working in the Thornton Creek watershed this summer.

“Human waste shouldn’t be in this creek,” said SPU Director Ray Hoffman.


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Book Review by Aarene Storms: Bomb: the race to build -- and steal -- the world's most dangerous weapon

Bomb: the race to build -- and steal -- the world's most dangerous weapon by Steve Sheinkin

The world will never forget what happened at Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, and at Nagasaki a few days later. The detonation of atomic weapons changed warfare -- and life -- on Earth forever after.

But the path to the creation of the atomic bomb was twisted and strange, involving some of the greatest scientists, the most expert spies, the most experienced military agents, and the most astonishing cast of political leaders of the time.

Bomb chronicles the complex story in a fascinating and quick-to-read volume. Illustrated with period photos and laden with well-documented primary source material, the book will catch and hold the attention of readers who want to know more about the time period, the science, the spycraft, the bomb builders, or the politics ... and provide a complete view of the "gadget" those folks built out at Los Alamos and dropped on Japan.

Rating:
Highly recommended for ages 12 to adult.

The events may not have happened; still, the story is true. --R. Silvern

Aarene Storms, youth services librarian
Richmond Beach and Lake Forest Park Libraries, KCLS


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Have fun and do something meaningful this summer - be a volunteer camp counselor



Seeking Volunteer Camp Counselors!

Do you want to have fun and do something meaningful this summer? Come and volunteer at Camp Ballinger and play games, create art, and chaperon field trips!

Center for Human Services offers Camp Ballinger, a summer day-camp, to residents of Ballinger Homes, a low income housing complex of the King County Housing Authority. Volunteer camp counselors and mentors help run Camp Ballinger, providing stimulating summer activities and social-emotional support and to children ages 6 to 18 years of age.

Camp is held Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Volunteer camp counselors are needed 11:30am — 5:30pm for six weeks starting July 9th – August 15th, 2013. Volunteers must be 18 years or older, attend the summer volunteer training, and commit to one, two or three days per week.

If you are interested, contact Sheryl Passarge at 206-631-8835. Summer Volunteer Training is required for volunteer camp counselors:

Tuesday, June 25, 2013
2:00-4:00 p.m.
Ballinger Homes
2200 NE 201st Place
Shoreline, WA 98155


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School District calendar approved

Andreanna Moya Photography  

The Shoreline School Board and Shoreline Education Association (SEA) have approved the 2013-14 school year calendar. This calendar:

  • maintains the same number of student instructional days offered in 2012-13
  • reinstates the 3.5 non-student work days for SEA members lost in 2011-12 and 2012-13 due to the State's reduction in funding for teachers and other instructional staff
  • adds one non-student work day for SEA members specifically for professional development related to implementation of the new teacher evaluation process
  • first day of school is the Wednesday following Labor Day (Sept. 4)
  • last day of school is Friday, June 20

Here are the key dates:

  • Sept. 4: First day of school
  • Sept. 27: Early Release for students
  • Sept. 30: No School, staff work day
  • Oct. 9 to 11: Elementary parent conferences
  • Oct. 25: No School, staff work day
  • Nov. 11: Veterans Day
  • Nov. 27: Early release for Thanksgiving break
  • Nov. 28-29: Thanksgiving break
  • Dec. 2: No School, staff work day
  • Dec. 23 to Jan. 3: Winter Break
  • Jan. 20: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
  • Jan. 21 to 24: Elementary parent conferences
  • Jan. 27: No School, staff work day
  • Feb. 17 to 21: Mid-Winter Break
  • March 21: No School, staff work day
  • April 7: No School, staff work day
  • April 21 to 25: Spring break
  • May 23: No School, staff work day
  • May 26: Memorial Day
  • June 9: No School, staff work day
  • June 20: Early release, last day of school


The complete calendar is posted. The 2013-14 District wall calendar will be published in August.


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Ospreys return to North City water tower

Jerry Pickard took this remarkable series of photos in Shoreline - a few moments in the life of a pair of ospreys.

The Ospreys have returned to the cell tower just to the north of Lena's Restaurant on 15th NE in North City. They have nested here before. Mother Osprey was feeding on fish.

The male osprey heads straight for the female

They mate

Admiring the view from what is probably the highest spot in the entire city of Shoreline


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Introductory statements from candidates for one of two seats on the Ronald Wastewater District Board

By Evan Smith


Voters in Shoreline and a few in the far southwest corner of Snohomish County will elect two commissioners of the Ronald Wastewater District in the 2013 election.

Three candidates are running for a full six-year term that begins in January.

Three others are running for what ballots call a “short and full term” that begins in December. The “short” term is the last month of the term that incumbent Richard Matthews holds by appointment.  The “full” term is for six years starting in January. The position is one of two created when the Board expanded from three to five commissioners last year.

Both the full six-year-term position and the short-and-full-term position will appear on the Aug. 6 primary ballot, with the top two vote getters for each position advancing to the Nov. 5 general-election ballot.

Running on this year's ballot for the short and full term for the new position are Craig Degginger, Matthews and George Webster.

A second new position will appear on the 2015 District ballot.

Here are introductory statements from the three candidates for the short and full term in this year’s primary. They are listed in alphabetical order.

Craig Degginger

Craig Degginger is seeking this position because he cares deeply about Shoreline’s future. In his role as Shoreline School District’s Public Information Officer, Craig worked tirelessly to achieve the community’s goal of replacing both high schools, providing our children with the buildings they deserve.

Last year, Shoreline citizens voted overwhelmingly for acquisition of the city’s portion of Seattle Public Utilities’ water system. The majority of Ronald Wastewater’s board opposed this acquisition. As the City prepares to implement the assumption of the Ronald Wastewater District by 2017, it’s time to elect new leadership that will work as partners with the City.

Richard Matthews

I’ve served as Ronald Wastewater Commissioner since August 2012. My legal background emphasizing real-estate and business transactions has helped the District in decisions faced this year. My record of commitment to the public (Little League; Rotary; The SCC Foundation; City task forces and commissions) demonstrates that I have the experience and skills to serve to protect ratepayers and the sanitary system.

I have solid working relationships with all segments of our community — elected officials; school district and college; utilities and businesses.

I will continue as Commissioner to collaborate with all groups and ratepayers to meet challenges the District faces.

George R. Webster

George and his wife have lived in Shoreline 34 years. Two children, Robert and Robin, graduated from Shoreline High School.

A licensed Professional Environmental Engineer with 46 years experience included: two-years as Technical Representative to the OECD in Paris, France, while working ten-years as a GS-15 Senior Environmental Engineer with the EPA in Washington, D.C. Honors included:  Diplomate of the American Academy of Environmental Engineers with Water and Wastewater expertise.

George’s former company, WEBSTERS' Inc., specialized in asbestos inspections and abatement management for WSU, UW, and ten local school districts. George now works as a consultant to local environmental firms.

Evan Smith can be reached at schsmith@frontier.com


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Take granddad and dad for lunch at the Senior Center

Father’s Day Celebration, June 17th


Bring your dad, granddads, and husbands to the Senior Center for a Father’s Day Celebration.  

There will be a special drawing for two $25 gift cards.

You will get to enjoy a special Father’s Day meal of; BBQ Port Ribs, mashed potatoes, pineapple coleslaw, cornbread and watermelon.

Meal starts at 11:45am but arrive early to assure you will have a seat. A $3.00 donation for seniors 60 and older is recommended, participants under 60 can enjoy this meal for $6.

The Senior Center is located at the south end of the Shoreline Conference Center at NE 185th and 1st NE.


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Fathers get half-off on dog adoptions on June 16

This Father's Day, let a furry friend from the Seattle Humane Society show you unconditional love. For one day only, June 16, all fathers get HALF OFF the normal adoption fee for any dog 1 year and up - and the fee for adult cats is 100 percent waived for the month of June.

If you’ve been thinking about adopting a furry companion, make this Father's Day extra special. Bring the whole family down to Seattle Humane in Bellevue between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. to meet hundreds of cats, dogs, and critters looking for a father’s love and affection. Give yourself the gift of constant companionship and give a pet in need a parent they can depend on.

Every pet in our care has been vaccinated, microchipped, health-checked, and spayed/neutered. Your adoption also includes 30 days of pre-paid health insurance, a collar and identification tag, and a certificate for an examination by a King County veterinarian. To learn more and view adoptable pets visit seattlehumane.org.

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U.S. Representative Jim McDermott co-sponsors legislation to protect Mountains to Sound Greenway


U.S. Representative Jim McDermott joined as co-sponsor to legislation introduced by Reps. Dave Reichert and Adam Smith to designate the Mountains to Sound Greenway as a National Heritage Area.

“The Mountains to Sound Greenway is a state and national treasure with rich natural and cultural resources. Its conservation should be a top priority. Washingtonians understand the value of preserving this unique landscape, and I am pleased to work towards establishing the Pacific Northwest’s first National Heritage Area,” says Congressman McDermott.

A National Heritage Area is a large, lived-in area designated by the United States Congress where natural, cultural, historic and recreational resources combine to form a landscape of national distinction. This designation provides a flexible framework to encourage residents, government agencies, nonprofit groups and private partners to collaboratively work together and implement projects to conserve a landscape, without affecting private property rights.

“Mountains visible from your downtown office. Trails you can get to from your home. A place for teenagers to explore the woods. A place where busy people can take two hours on a weekday afternoon for a hike. We enjoy nature on our doorstep in the Mountains to Sound Greenway, which is why we are asking Congress to officially recognize this special place as a National Heritage Area,” says Bill Chapman, Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust President. “We are thrilled to have Congressman McDermott co-sponsoring this important bipartisan legislation.”


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I’ve never – or rarely – ridden a bus…how do I ride a bus? - Part 4



I’ve never – or rarely – ridden a bus…how do I ride a bus? 
(part 4)
By Brian Doennebrink

Where we last left off, you made it on the bus, you’ve paid your fare. Now what?

If you don’t know where you’re going or how to get there, ask your driver. Caveat: many drivers don’t know many of the routes in their own system, they only know their route or a handful of routes they’ve driven recently. Some drivers are part-time, while others have a different schedule every day. It’s even more iffy that your driver will know of another transit agency’s routes beyond ones they often have transfers to/from. The odds go down as transit agencies make substantial changes to their routes, as some have lately.

At the front of the bus are seats that are reserved for those with wheelchairs, seniors, and/or disabled riders. If you aren’t in one of these categories, be sure to vacate/offer to vacate your seat to a rider of this type.

Don’t be a seat hog, share your seat.

Use your cell phone sparingly, if at all. Not only are cell phones a favorite target of thieves, but seemingly “normal-level” conversations are often heard at least several feet away.

Beware! Occasionally, you’ll encounter smelly passengers. Other than finding a seat that’s further away – sometimes much further – the only other option is getting off the bus and taking the next one, which may or may not be practical.

Beware! Occasionally, there will be difficult passengers, many with issues. These tend to “occur” near the front or back of the bus. There’s no fool-proof way to counter these, but – especially when riding at night – sit within eyesight of the driver – I go for a seat or two behind the disabled/senior seating.

If you’re a young female, you’re particularly vulnerable, so travel with a friend when possible, especially if you’re riding at night.

Be sure to pull the cord/push the button well in advance of your stop so that the driver has ample time to slow down. Watch your balance as you get off and take care leaving the bus, both in avoiding others’ items on the floor, for example, and when stepping off to what might be an uneven surface.

Always thank your driver where deserved.

Other articles in this series can be found on the front page under Features "Public Transit Choices"

Previous articles on How do I ride a bus?

The differences for Bus Rapid Transit, brand named Swift and Rapid Ride, will be covered in the next article.

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Kenmore and Lake Forest Park to hold joint city council meeting Thursday

The City Councils of Kenmore and Lake Forest Park will hold a special, joint meeting this Thursday from 6pm - 7:30pm at Lake Forest Park City Hall, 17425 Ballinger Way NE.

The proposed agenda includes but is not limited to discussion of issues of mutual interest including SR 522 projects, SR 522 speed limits and tolling mitigation issues; public safety improvements and access; development projects.

A reception honoring commissioners and volunteers will be held from 7:30 - 8pm, and the Lake Forest Park regular council meeting will begin at 8pm,





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Northshore Fire Open House Saturday



Northshore Fire Open House Saturday, June 15; 9 to 12pm at Northshore Fire Headquarters, 7220 NE 181st St.

Join in the fun at the annual Northshore Fire Department Open House. This free event features a pancake breakfast (from 9-11am), a health and safety fair, and live firefighter demonstrations.

Lots of activities for kids, including an opportunity to tour the fire engine, aid car, and rescue truck.


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3 Simple tips even smart parents need to take the STING out of the Bird + Bees Talk




The birds and the bees can be tough to talk about, but with a little information, skills, some careful thought and planning, it us possible to have comfortable and effective sex talks with your kids that don't make either of you nuts! Join the Changes Parent Support Network with Amy Lang from Birds + Bees + Kids® who will take the sting out of talking to kids about sex, love, and relationships!

Amy Lang created Birds + Bees + Kids® in 2005 and has been featured in Seattle Magazine and Seattle’s Child. She has been a regular guest on NW Cable News’ "Northwest Parenting" segment and other radio and TV programs.

Saturday
June 15, 2013
10 AM - noon

Shoreline City Hall
17500 Midvale Ave N
Community Room #301
Shoreline, WA 98133

There is no charge for this seminar. Parents and professionals welcome.


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Overcoming barriers to employment for people with disabilities

Wednesday, June 12, 2013



Overcoming barriers to employment for people with disabilities

A free workshop will be held on September 6, 2013 for 8:30am to 2:30pm (free lunch included) at Shoreline Community College, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline 98133.

If you are over 16 years of age with a disability seeking employment, this event is designed to assist job seekers with disabilities navigate the road to employment. Parents and advocates of persons with disabilities are encouraged to attend.

The keynote Speaker will be John Evans, from the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, who will talk frankly about the what some of the barriers to employment are and what you can do to overcome them.

Workshop samples: Job search on the Internet; How DVR can help you get a job; Accommodations in the work place; Volunteer as a pre employment experience, Apprenticeship as a pathway to employment; How to navigate Work Source; Secrets to a successful interview.

 Pre-registration is required  Last day for registration is August 26th.

This event is provided through a grant offered by the Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.


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5th Annual Celebrate Shoreline Soccer Classic Fri-Sun June 14-16



The 5th Annual Celebrate Shoreline Soccer Classic kicks off this Friday evening on our local Shoreline fields. 52 teams of U11-14 boys and girls teams from throughout King and Snohomish Counties will play 101 games through the weekend, with group stage games Friday and Saturday, culminating in age-group Finals on Sunday afternoon at Shoreline Stadium and the Shoreline AB fields.

Unique to youth soccer tournaments in Western Washington, all Celebrate Shoreline games will be played on beautiful all-weather synthetic turf surfaces throughout our city at Kings, Einstein, Twin Ponds, Shorecrest, Kellogg and the Shoreline Center.

Now in its 5th year, the Celebrate Shoreline tournament is jointly organized and sponsored by volunteers from the Shorelake and Hillwood Soccer Clubs, members of whom have worked together for many years, first as part of FCShoreline select soccer, and more recently as the Seattle United Shoreline regional soccer committee. All are part of the Seattle Youth Soccer Association.

Proceeds from the tournament benefit youth player and coach development programs in the our local Shoreline clubs, from coaching clinics designed for coaches of teams up to high school age, to footskills programs for the youngest U6-U10 players which will take place in later summer and into the fall recreational league season.

The weather is supposed to be great, so relive your days as a youth soccer player or parent by coming by one of the fields and watching a game this weekend!



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What's cooking at Central Market?

If you're looking for inspiration, answers, tips or new recipes - come by the Culinary Resource Center near Produce at Shoreline's Central Market. There's often something to sample, and always recipes for the taking.

Here's the lineup for demonstrations. The kiosk is staffed 10 am-6:30 pm daily (9 am-5:30 pm Sundays) with sampling noon to 4:30 pm. If a line appears under the recipe, click to go to the full recipe. 

JUNE 12-18, 2013 

Thurs, 
June 13 

Fri, 
June 14 

Sat, 
June 15 
Bacon Pancakes with Maple Syrup 

Sun, 
June 16 
Happy Father’s Day! 
Try our Deli’s new finishing butters on Brentwood sweet corn 

Mon, 
June 17 
Spice Up Your Nuts! 
Try our Bulk Foods spice blends on mixed nuts – customize for unique flavors 

Tues, 
June 18 

Shoreline Central Market, 15505 Westminster Way N, Shoreline 98133, 206-363-9226.


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Women in Stitches yarn bomb Richmond Beach Park sign

International Yarn Bombing Day was June 8


Every Monday morning a group of women meet in a home in Richmond Beach to knit, crochet, and do handwork together. They call themselves Women In Stitches referring as much to the fun they have together as to the beautiful hand crafted garments they create.

Women in Stitches

Motivated by the Seuss-like trees they saw decorated last summer near Ronald Bog Park, the group decided to participate in International Yarn Bombing Day on June 8th. Together they created and installed a piece of yarn art to decorate the sign at the entrance to Richmond Beach Park. The piece will be up until June 14, 2013.


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Shoreline City Council Business Meeting June 10, 2013

Devon Vose Rickabaugh
Photo by Jerry Pickard

Updated 06-12-2013 10:35pm

Shoreline City Council Business Meeting June 10, 2013
By Devon Vose Rickabaugh

The main business under consideration at the Shoreline City Council Meeting was a plan for starting to develop the Aurora Square Area which has been determined to suffer from “economic blight”. This designation allowed the city to establish Aurora Square as a Community Renewal Area (CRA).

Economic Development Manager Dan Eernissee explained The CRA Plan relies on healthy, market-driven private enterprise, and it is the key to the Plan’s success.

“The key question is whether the City will be in a strong enough position to contribute sufficient resources to make the this public private partnership attractive to the private sector.”
Eernissee introduced an offer by the Mill Creek Residential Trust to purchase and develop the property between 155th, Westminster, and Aurora  Avenue to build 300-350 apartment  homes in a podium style building which he anticipates will catalyze redevelopment in the area. Sean Hyatt Managing Director of Mill Creek Residential said his company “has developed numerous Seattle-area communities including Circa Green Lake which recently sold for $420,000 per unit.”

Hyatt says purchasing and developing this property is contingent on receiving a “capitol allocation from the city in 2013 with permits by the year’s end as well as receiving a 12 year property tax exemption to ensure financeable economic return.”

City Manager Julie Underwood said that “the number 1 goal of the City Council has been to strengthen Shoreline’s economic base and tonight’s plan could further this goal.”

Council member McConnell said this sounds like a great catalyst and “we need one”. She said she would agree to the 12 year property tax exemption.

Deputy Mayor Eggen said he was in support of moving forward with the plan. He said, “We should think about  why we need to raise the property tax exemption from 5 year to 12years” for affordable multifamily units.

Mayor McGlashan and council member Winstead both wanted to make sure the design of the buildings don’t clash with the design on the over bridge along Aurora.

Eernissee said that July 8th there will be a public hearing before voting  to adopt the initial part of the  plan.

In other business following an Executive Session the council voted to refund $103,000 to New Cingular Wireless for overpayment of taxes. Under terms of that settlement New Cingular Wireless will deposit refunds in a settlement trust for the benefit of the ratepayers. In April 2012 New Cingular filed suit against over 100 Washington cities, including Shoreline, seeking a refund of these tax payments.


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Father's Day on Sunday: Give Dad a gift to appreciate for years


lily. Photo by Pete Hamill

This Father's Day, give your dad a green thumbs up by giving him the gift of shrubbery, or flora. 

From fantastic flowering shrubs to bountiful berry producing shrubs, there are many types of shrubs that he's sure to appreciate.

Fruit and Flowering: Prized for their flowers or for their bright, colorful berries, these types of shrubs are perfect for experienced gardeners.

Practical Shrubs: Whether for decoration or for privacy, there are many shrubs that serve purposes beyond their aesthetic appeal.

When you give dad the gift of shrubbery you'll be giving him a beautiful, easy to maintain gift that he'll be able to appreciate for years to come.

--Linda Reinke Williford


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Statement from State Superintendent Randy Dorn on the end of the Legislature’s Special Session


Randy Dorn
State Superintendent of
Public Instruction
June 11 — Today, the state Legislature adjourned after failing to pass an operating budget. Gov. Jay Inslee has called all legislators back tomorrow for a second special session. Below is a statement from State Superintendent Randy Dorn on the first special session.

I’m disappointed that the Legislature didn’t pass a budget.

The most recent budget we saw was the Senate’s, which passed this past weekend. It continues to underfund the Supreme Court’s call to adequately fund basic education.

In addition, the Senate’s proposal makes troubling decisions similar to those they made in their original budget in April:
  • It consolidates many smaller programs into the Learning Assistance Program. The Senate’s proposal folds many dropout-prevention programs into LAP. LAP is its own program and is not designed for dropout prevention.
  • It effectively eliminates state funded Career and Technical Education. The Senate’s proposal cuts $49.2 million materials, supplies and operating costs (MSOC) for CTE students. It would give districts less money for those students than for non-CTE students, which would effectively end state funded CTE programs.
  • It changes testing requirements, which will lead to fewer graduates. The Senate’s proposal assumes that the Smarter Balanced Assessment will be used as the state’s high school graduation requirement. That assessment, though, isn’t designed to be a test to measure high school proficiency, and could lead to as many as 65 percent of our students not passing.
More generally, the Senate’s proposal increases basic education funding by roughly $1 billion. Last week I said the House budget, which increased basic education about the same amount, didn’t go far enough to satisfy the Supreme Court’s McCleary decision. I feel the same way this week about the budget passed by the Senate.

The minimum amount needed to put this state on the path to adequately funding education, according to the Quality Education Council, is $1.4 billion. Anything less puts this state in danger of failing to meet its constitutional duty.

Finally, I’m troubled by how different the Senate and House budgets are. As we head into a second special session, it doesn’t appear that the two chambers are close to an agreement. A government shutdown would be a disaster for our schools.  On Friday I delivered a letter (attached) to legislative leaders laying out some of the effects of not passing a state budget.

It is time for the House and Senate to agree to put off divisive policy debates and simply pass a state budget that meets our basic constitutional responsibilities.


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Semi-annual used book sale at Third Place Books June 15-16


Third Place Books, Lake Forest Park Town Center, Bothell Way and Ballinger Way,


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Home Girls: housing market heats up in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park this month

Home Girl Nan Skinner, of Keller Williams, reports that since June 1st, 14 single family homes have been sold in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park.

Nine of those sold in less than 10 days!

Five of those homes were sold at a price higher than the list price.

Five others were sold at list price or just pennies above list price.

The remaining four sold just under list price.

Nan can be reached at 206-734-9289 if you have questions.


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Installation of officers at American Legion Post 227

Updated 06-12-2013 11:05pm

From left: Jake Cabuag Past Dept. Cmdr. WA; Jerry Pickard, Historian; Larry Fisher;
Ken Bradford, Finance Officer; Richard Seslar, Post Commander

American Legion Post 227 held its officer installation ceremonies on Tuesday June 4, 2013 for the Post members and for the Legion's Ladies Auxiliary.

Members of the Women's Auxiliary are sworn in

The women's auxiliary provided a reception for the event



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Public meeting for planned development at 19012 20th Ave NW

Hear a presentation for a proposed development at 19012 20th Ave NW, Shoreline, WA. At this meeting the developer's representative will discuss the specific details and solicit comments on the proposal from the neighborhood.

Meeting Information:

Proposal: 4 lot single family detached subdivision.

Zoning: R-6 
Land Use Applications required: Demolition Permit, Preliminary Short Plat, Site Development Permit, Right-of-Way, and Final Short Plat.

Date: Monday June 17th, 2013

Time: 5:30-6:30pm

Location of Meeting: Small Meeting Room at the Shoreline library located at 345 NE 175th Street, Shoreline, WA 98155.



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Book Review by Aarene Storms: Starting From Here

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Starting From Here by Lisa Jenn Bigelow

You wouldn't want Colby's life. Her mom died of cancer. Her truck driver dad is gone most of the time. And her girlfriend just dumped her ... for a guy.

Then by chance Colby rescues Mo, a stray dog hit by a car. Mo survives the amputation of his leg, and caring for him propels Colby into friendships she would never have imagined.

This potentially too-sweet story is enlivened by an imperfect central character with the knack for screwing up relationships. Fortunately, Colby is determined to live with her own choices, and the strength of her character makes up for a lot of bad judgement. Supporting characters are worthwhile as well: her buddy Van, her absent-but-loving dad, and the cute girl at school who just might forgive Colby's screw-ups, if only she gets the chance.

Rating:
Recommended for readers ages 14 to adult. No violence; some cussing, some kissing, and one very tactful incident of Star Trek Sex.

The events may not have happened; still, the story is true. --R. Silvern

Aarene Storms, youth services librarian
Richmond Beach and Lake Forest Park Libraries, KCLS


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The photo says it all: Shorewood Wesco Champs in Boys soccer and baseball

Shorewood High School team captains pose with their banners - Champions!
Photo courtesy Shorewood Athletics



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Four Shorecrest golfers, two from Shorewood on All-Wesco 3A South team


Four Shorecrest golfers -- three girls and a boy -- and two Shorewood boy golfers have won positions on the all-Wesco-3A-South teams.

On the all-division boys' team are Trent Jones of Shorecrest, and James Wright and Stuart Schachle of Shorewood along with two players from Glacier Peak and one from Meadowdale.

On the all-division girls' team are Shorecrest players Audrey Penner, Claire Mrozek and Stephanie Taylor along with three golfers from Glacier Peak.

Jones tied for 13th in the State 3A boys ’ tournament after he placed second in the Northwest District tournament with Schachle fourth and Wright tied for seventh.

The Shorecrest boys’ team placed third in the 11-team District tournament. 

Penner tied for 31st in the State 3A girls’ tournament, after Penner tied for third in the Northwest District tournament, with Mrozek seventh and Taylor tied for 12th.

Penner led Shorecrest to second place in the Western Conference 3A championships.



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Shorewood Athletic Awards for 2013

Winners of Shorewood Athletics 2013 Awards
Photo courtesy Shorewood Athletics


Shorewood Athletic Awards:

  • Masha Shtikel and Josh Hawkinson - Athletes of the Year
  • Lauren Thompson and David Fan - Scholar Athletes
  • Mackenzie Cornell-Maier, Chris Namba, and Bailey Wilson are State WIAA Cliff Gillies Award winners



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St. Luke School wins CYO Championships in baseball and track


Capping off another strong athletic season, St. Luke School took home the Catholic Youth Organization Championships in both Baseball and Track this past weekend.

In Track and Field, the team used a dominant sprint performance to take home the overall team championship with 125 points, 79 points more than the next closest team.

In Baseball, the team defeated Assumption-St. Bridget 9-4 in the final game, capping off an excellent season on the diamond. 

For more information about St. Luke School, call the front office at 206-542-1133. 


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Get out your shopping baskets - the Shoreline Farmers Market is almost here

The 2013 season of the Shoreline Farmers Market starts 10am Saturday, June 15, 2013 at Shoreline City Hall.

To complement the all of the fine local producers, artisans, and musicians commonly found at the market – this year there will be two new programs in place in 2013. 

The first is the Shoreline Farmers Market’s SNAP Match initiative which is funded to match the first $10 of each Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) recipient’s dollars. This will introduce more community members to the market, help them stretch their dollars further and put healthy, local foods on their family’s tables. This program was based on a successful pilot initiative from Seattle Farmers Markets last year. For inquiries about this program please contact SFM Market Manager, Angela Bratt.


The other new program at the market is a newly formed partnership formed with The Center. The Center provides employment support, research and outreach services for local community members living with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The third leg of the stool in this partnership is J.J. Brenner Oyster Company. The folks at JJ Brenner are donating locally and sustainably raised shellfish for the market. Volunteers from The Center will work with staff members that have Autism to sell the Shellfish to shoppers – with all net proceeds going toward research and employment opportunities in the community. This program was piloted successfully last year in Federal Way and has chosen Shoreline and Issaquah Farmers Markets as new locations. KUOW did a feature story on the program.

The Shoreline Farmers Market looks forward to seeing you all summer long and is excited to build off of a successful 2012 campaign. You can find the SFM on Facebook or visit their website for vendor/volunteer/musician information.


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Ten days in, the community has Steps Up to the Million Stair Challenge



10 days into the City of Shoreline’s Million Stair Challenge, 197 participants have logged their stairs in the Stair Tracker for a total of 606,264 stairs! Those who log their totals on the online stair tracker will be eligible for special prizes,

During the month of June, the City of Shoreline is challenging the community to head out to Richmond Beach Saltwater Park, 2021 NW 190th Street, to see how many stairs we can all climb in an effort to stay healthy and active.

There are 188 stairs out at the park. The Million Stair Challenge will take place during the whole month of June and participants can log their totals on the paper tracking sheets located at the top of the stairs or the online tracking system on the website.

Challenge yourself, challenge others…take the Million Stair Challenge!

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Hilda Thompson leads LFP candidates in fundraising

By Evan Smith


Lake Forest Park City Council candidate Hilda Thompson leads all LFP candidates in fundraising for the Nov. 5 general election.

Thompson has reported raising $4,850 with no spending. Opponent Jason Colberg has yet to register with the State Public Disclosure Commission. The two are running for the position that Councilwoman Sandy Koppenol now holds. One contributor has given Thomson $300 and four donors have each given $250.

Candidate Mark Phillips reports raising $1,413 and spending $235. Opponent Edgar Escanda has not registered with the PDC. The two are running for the position that Councilman Don Fiene holds. Three donors have each given Phillips $250. He has taken out $221 in loans,

Candidate Edward Resha has raised $1,235, with no spending. Opponent Alan Kiest has not registered with the PDC, The two are running for the position that Councilman Bob Lee now holds.

Unopposed incumbent Councilman John Wright has reported no fundraising or spending.


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Commencement ceremonies at Shoreline Community College emphasize community and perseverance

Graduates pour out of the gym after the ceremony
Photo courtesy SCC


Community and perseverance were the themes at the Shoreline Community College Commencement for the Class 2013.
By Jim Hills

Comments by the speakers at the June 9 event - student William C. Holmes III, faculty member Mimi Harvey and State Rep. Cyrus Habib – all focused on the idea that when personal strength is combined with societal support, great things can happen for both the individual and community.

Grads check out their photos after the ceremony
Photo courtesy SCC

Holmes said he was a high school dropout who re-engaged through the Career Education Options program. He went on to lead the college’s DECA team that recently returned from an award-winning effort at the national and international competition for business, marketing and entrepreneurship. Holmes emphasized that his accomplishments came with the help and support of many.

Paige Grossman of Shoreline will transfer to WSU this fall.
Like many SCC students, she worked part to full-time
while carrying a full course load.
Photo by Kevin Grossman


Harvey, who teaches Communications Studies, focused on the concept of community, but then asked the soon-to-be-graduates and audience to make that concept a reality. “Look around you, really, look around,” Harvey implored. “This is community, this is coming together.”

Habib’s own story is inspirational on its own. The 31-year-old legislator from Kirkland was blinded by cancer by age 8. He went on to become a Rhodes Scholar, Truman Scholar and graduate of Columbia University (Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa), Oxford University and Yale Law School where he served as editor of the Yale Law Journal.




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