Sample Ballot: Shoreline

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Sample Ballot: Shoreline


By Evan Smith

Here are issues that will appear on Shoreline ballots for the Nov. 5 general election in addition to statewide and countywide issues that we have posted separately.

Candidates appear in the order they will appear on the ballot.

CITY

City of Shoreline, Council Position No. 1
Keith McGlashan

City of Shoreline, Council Position No. 3
Will Hall

City of Shoreline, Council Position No. 5
Shari Winstead

City of Shoreline, Council Position No. 7
Christopher Roberts
Michael Javorsky

SCHOOL

Shoreline School District No. 412, Director District No. 2
Debi Ehrlichman

Shoreline School District No. 412, Director District No. 3
David Wilson

SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICT

Shoreline Fire Department, Commissioner Position No. 2
Kimberly Fischer

Shoreline Fire Department, Commissioner Position No. 5, short and full term
Ken Callahan

Shoreline Water District, Commissioner Position No. 2
Larry Schoonmaker

Ronald Wastewater District, Commissioner Position No. 2
Gretchen Atkinson
Ginny Scantlebury

Ronald Wastewater District, Commissioner Position No. 4\short and full term
George R. Webster
Richard Matthews


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Obituary: Jack Rogers

Jack Rogers
Photo by Vicki Stiles

We have received word that Jack Rogers died on October 15, 2013. A long-time school teacher and administrator, he was editor in chief for Shore to Shore and Line to Line: A History of the Shoreline School District 1944 to 2004. 

His biography from the book jacket says that:

"Jack taught sixth grade in Shoreline from 1968 to 1983.  He was an administrator from 1983 until his retirement in 1996. In 1982 he was named Shoreline Teacher of the Year, and Washington State Teacher of the Year the following year. He was recognized three times by the Shoreline PTA with two Golden Acorn Awards and a lifetime membership honor.
                                    
"Jack was an active member of the Shoreline Education Association, serving as a building representative and chair of the Political Action Committee for many years. In 1973 he served as president of SEA. Since retirement, he has been an active member of the Sno-King School Retirees' Association.

"As a citizen of the Shoreline/Lake Forest Park community, Jack has been involved in many projects. He has worked with others to pass school district levies, establish the City of Shoreline, and set up the Lake Forest Park Teen Court and the Shoreline Public Schools Foundation.

"Jack was a member of the Shoreline Community College Foundation and Shoreline Breakfast Rotary. He was also an elected representative of the Northshore Fire Commission."

Updated 10-20-2013 5:35pm

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A Conversation about Identity & Modernity at SCC Friday



A Conversation about Identity and Modernity

Hubert H. Humphrey International Fellows
The Evan’s School of Public Affairs, University of Washington

A panel of professionals from Algeria, Egypt, Madagascar, and Uruguay will share their views on the meaning of “national identity” and “modernity” at home. 

Friday, October 18, 12:30-1:30pm
Shoreline Community College, Room 1508 PUB (map)

This event is FREE and open to the public.

Part of the Global Eyes series organized by the Global Affairs Center.


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Public Notice: King County Fire Protection District No.16


Notice of Continuation of the Public Hearing for Northshore Fire Department
King County Fire Protection District No.16

TO: All residents and owners of personal property and improvements to real property located within the geographical boundaries of King County Fire Protection District No. 16 (which includes the Year 2013 for the City of Lake Forest Park, and the City of Kenmore);

NOTICE IS HERBY GIVEN that the Board of Commissioners of King County Fire Protection District No. 16 have continued the public hearing from October 15, 2013, to the date, time and place specified below to:

  • Review revenue sources for the District’s Year 2014 expense budget including revenue from property taxes and possible increases in property tax revenues, if any, as required by RCW 84.55.120; and    


  • Review and establish the Fire District’s benefit charges to be imposed in Year 2014 for the support of its legally authorized activities, which will maintain or improve the services afforded in the District, as provided in RCW 52.18.060.


DATE OF HEARING:

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

TIME OF HEARING:

7:00 P.M.

PLACE OF HEARING:

Headquarters Station 51
7220 NE 181st Street
Kenmore, Washington 98028

DATED this 16th day of October 2013.

ERIC ADMAN,
Chair
Board of Commissioners,
KCFPD No. 16

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CORRECTION: Program for 46th Dems is not as reported


It was reported in error that Mayor Mary Jane Goss would be one of the speakers at the Thursday, October 17 meeting of the 46th District Democrats.

It was stated that Mayor Goss would present the "Gateway Project". Actually the Southern Gateway Project of residential development just north of 145th on Bothell Way, the developer is still in the process of working with the City Planning department to get permits for the site.

The Southern Gateway site was the former home of the Lake City Elks, who are building a new facility in Shoreline on 15th NE just north of NE 145th.

Mayor Goss is scheduled for a different meeting that night.


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Man uses phone app to lure 12 year old Lake Forest Park girl


Story from Q13 Fox

A cellphone app led to the sexual assault of a 12 year old Lake Forest Park girl

“Every single day a new app comes out on a phone and as parents we really need to be involved,” Lake Forest Park Police Chief Stephen Sutton said. “That was the cause of this.” 
Adults may not have heard of many of the apps, but teens are increasingly using sites and apps like Ask.fm, Spraffl or Whisper, where they can remain anonymous and post secrets about themselves. 
“Facebook is barely used anymore,” Leen, a junior at Shorecrest High School, said. “Because when you say something, you actually know who’s saying it.” 
In the case of the 12-year-old, police said she was communicating with 21-year-old Ron Peterson via the app, Whisper. The app allows users to reveal secrets while staying secret, but there is also the option to see if other users are nearby and chat with them. In their conversations, the girl lied to Peterson and told him she was older. 
Peterson told detectives he found the girl on the app, and eventually convinced her to climb out of her window at home and take off with him. He took her to a nearby motel where he told police he had sex with her.



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Gold in the trees

Photo by Lee Lageschulte

We don't always have fall colors in the Pacific Northwest - or sunny days in late October. Get out, if you can, and enjoy the colors in person. If you can't, enjoy Lee Lageschulte's photo of golden trees in Shoreline.


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A Conversation about China’s Worldview, Thursday at SCC

Joe Borich

A Conversation about China’s Worldview with Joe Borich, President, Washington State China Relations Council

A forum on China’s national and international goals, how China’s leaders view their role in the world, and the evolution of the U.S.-China relationship, featuring Shoreline resident and former U.S. Consul-General in Shanghai, Joe Borich.

Thursday, October 17, 7-8:30pm, Shoreline Community College, Room 9215 PUB (map)

This event is FREE and open to the public.

Part of the symposium, No One’s World, organized by the Global Affairs Center.


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Birds at the Burke Saturday

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Puget Sound Bird Observatory is partnering with the Burke Museum for an annual event about birds from your backyard, and around the world.

Birds at the Burke, Saturday, October 19, 2013, 10 am – 4 pm
Included with museum admission; FREE for Burke members or with UW ID

Join the Burke Museum for a new annual event all about our feathered friends! See and touch hundreds of birds from the Burke’s ornithology collection, from hummingbirds to hornbills.

Activities include:

  • See beautiful nests with eggs from the Burke’s bird collection – on public view for the first time ever.
  • Also learn about the most common nests you can find in your backyard.
  • Meet a live macaw from Cougar Mountain Zoo (10 am - 12 pm) and a live owl from Woodland Park Zoo (1-3pm).
  • Discover how scientists safely capture and band wild birds for research with mist net demonstrations, and practice with toy birds.
  • Examine how birds are prepared for museum collections by viewing bird specimen preparation.
  • Hands-on bird crafts and family activities.
  • 11:30am & 1pm: join Neil Zimmerman from Seattle Audubon for a short bird walk around the museum grounds. Bring your Binoculars!
  • Talks throughout the day ranging from how birds learn to sing, to the lives of owls

Our "For the Birds" columnist Christine Southwick, President of the PSBO, will be at the event with exhibits on local birds and what they eat.



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King County Medic-One levy on November ballot


By Evan Smith
       
Our November ballots will include a King County proposition for renewal of a property-tax levy to support the Medic-One emergency-response system.
       
Here is the material that will appear in the voters’ pamphlets that will arrive at our homes in a few days: 

King County
60% Yes vote with a minimum number of 234,736 yes votes (RCW 84.52.069)

King County
Proposition No. 1
Medic One – Emergency Medical Services Renewal of Existing Levy

The King County Council passed Ordinance No. 17598 concerning funding for the county-wide Medic One emergency medical services system. This proposition would replace an expiring levy to continue funding of Medic One emergency medical services. It would authorize King County to impose regular property tax levies of $0.335 or less per thousand dollars of assessed valuation for each of six consecutive years, with collection beginning in 2014, as provided in King County Ordinance No. 17598. Should this proposition be:

Approved __
Rejected ___

EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

If approved by voters, Proposition No. 1 would authorize King County to levy a regular property tax at a rate not to exceed $0.335 per one thousand dollars of assessed valuation on all taxable property within the county. The levy proceeds would be used to fund county-wide Medic One emergency medical services as more fully described in Ordinance No. 17598 and RCW 84.52.069. The levy would be authorized for a six-year period, with collection beginning in 2014. The levy would be exempt from the rate limitations in RCW 84.52.043, but would be subject to the chapter 84.55 RCW limitations on levy increases in years two through six.

Statement For

Renew our commitment to Medic One.

Every year, Medic One saves hundreds of lives. Last year, over 4,000 dedicated firefighters and paramedics responded to over 172,000 medical 911 calls for help (one every 3 minutes).

Medic One is recognized as one of the best emergency medical services systems in the world. Our cardiac arrest survival rate for the most common type of cardiac arrest is 57% - the highest reported anywhere and 4-5 times higher than most other communities.

The Medic One levy is not a new tax; it's a renewal of a program that provides critical emergency services for all residents of King County. King County voters have supported Medic One by passing levies for nearly 35 years.

At the proposed levy rate, the average homeowner will pay approximately $107 a year for Medic One - this is actually less than the average homeowner paid in 2008 for these same services.

The Medic One system serves nearly 2 million people in King County. We depend on Medic One to be there when we need it, 24 hours a day, every day.

Now it's our turn to be there for Medic One. Renew our commitment. Vote YES on Proposition 1.

Statement submitted by: Reagan Dunn, Denis Law and Mickey Eisenberg mickeyeisenberg@gmail.com

Statement Against

Tax increases pass with simple majorities in King County but require 60% voter approval in other jurisdictions. Renters generally support spending initiatives financed with property tax increases but oppose those financed with sales tax increases, regardless of purpose. These facts explain why proposals for higher property taxes never fail and continue being sponsored. Why can't officials adopt budgets predicated on revenue from existing sources, without recurring excess levy requests? Because criminal defense law firms have carte blanche to bill taxpayers for attorney, investigator and associated staff expenses as well as for seemingly endless court appeals. You won't see councilmembers calling on Olympia to end the death penalty because doing so would compromise their trial lawyer friends' income. Also, some government services should be moved to the private sector where they could be delivered just as efficiently but more economically.

Rebuttal Of Statement For

More delinquent accounts will be added to the Assessor's tax rolls if homeowners remain victims of government's inefficiency and inability to prioritize and cut spending. Property taxes are too high and going higher because valuations have risen, again! Government must find other ways to deliver essential services and finance capital improvements. Instead, it says "yes" to renters and public employees, "no" to privatization and tax relief. Voters should use their ballots to proclaim "no more!"

Statement submitted by: John Shackleford

Rebuttal of Statement Against

No rebuttal submitted.


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Hamlin Halloween Haunt this Friday for little ones and their families


The Hamlin Haunt is a family-friendly event held in the woods of Hamlin Park, with campfire, hayrides, games, and more. All activities are outdoors, so dress warmly and bring a flashlight.


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22nd Annual Calling for Kids Phone-A-Thon Nov 3


The Shoreline Public Schools Foundation (SPSF) Fall Campaign for Kids is coming to a close on Nov. 3 with the 22nd Annual “Calling for Kids” Phone-A-Thon.

Your donations can support and enhance the education of every K-12 student in every school in the Shoreline School District. Donations from the past year allowed SPSF to fund a large variety of needs district wide: from IXL Math grants in the elementary grades to music enrichment, tutoring and author programs in middle and high schools, to Bike Rodeos for our special needs students and the funding of Elementary and Secondary Summer School. SPSF’s commitment to expand the education of every child in the district means funding large and small needs on a regular basis.

There are many opportunities for you to donate during the next month. 

  • You can donate online
  • Click the link that will be sent to you through your schools’ emails or 
  • Answer your phone on Sunday, November 3rd in our culminating “Calling for Kids” Phone-A-Thon! (Donations online eliminate the need for a phone call to your home on November 3rd.)

Your donation will help SPSF reach their Fall Campaign for Kids goal of $40,000 and provide resources to help all students achieve their full academic potential. Let’s all work together and share in the commitment to improving the Shoreline Public Schools through the Shoreline Public School Foundation and strengthening our community.


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Shoreline Water's District Manager joins Washington State Public Works Board

Diane Pottinger, District Manager
Shoreline Water District
Shoreline Water District, a special purpose district serving residents of Shoreline and Lake Forest Park, is proud to announce their District Manager, Diane Pottinger, PE, has accepted Governor Inslee's invitation to join Washington State's Public Works Board.

Last spring, the American Society of Civil Engineers gave a statewide report card “C” grade to Washington state’s infrastructure, due to the lack of planned and guaranteed funding and inadequate maintenance reported across a number of different categories. Washington State's Public Works Board seeks to change that grade with a nationally recognized infrastructure funding program offering progressive, sustainable and affordable strategies to meet the public health, environment and economic development needs of Washington communities. 

“We are thrilled to have Diane represent our District—not only on local issues in the Lake Forest Park and Shoreline communities—but to also to state legislators. We are confident that her enthusiasm and energy will help legislators make sound decisions that ensure well-functioning drinking water, sewer, storm water and solid waste infrastructures," said Shoreline Water District's Board President, Larry Schoonmaker. 

During her four year term, Ms. Pottinger will work closely with 12 other Board members to review financing applications, create the Public Works Trust Fund Construction Loan list, tour financed projects, attend workshops, conferences, and meetings on behalf of the Board, and participate in training courses related to infrastructure issues. Their goal will be to create a world class system of services that allows a community to access both financial and technical resources that lead to sustaining their infrastructure systems. Public Works Board members receive no compensation for their involvement and meet monthly throughout the year.

Ms. Pottinger's background and experience was key to her appointment: as the District Manager at Shoreline Water District, she oversees an annual operating budget of approximately $5 million. She has helped the District participate in three public private partnerships and two state revolving fund loans in 2012 in order to keep water rates affordable. She has a first-hand understanding of sewer and water infrastructure due to her extensive engineering background with CHS Engineers, LLC, Trihey & Associates, R.W. Beck, and the United States Army. She is also a member of the Washington Association of Sewer and Water Districts, Shoreline Breakfast Rotary and the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce.

Says Ms. Pottinger, "I feel deeply honored to our State's Board of Public Works, and am particularly excited about the opportunities to apply my local insight and experience towards an expanded regional outreach in our state's infrastructure."

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Ridgecrest Neighborhood uses mini-grant for beautification

The Ridgecrest Neighborhood Association recently was approved to receive a Neighborhood Mini-Grant from the City of Shoreline.


Funds from the grant, and donations of materials and labor will result in the beautification of the southwest corner of 5th Ave NE and NE 165th.

Currently the corner looks like this
Photo by Patty Hale

There obviously is a need for visual respite from asphalt, concrete and vehicles at this intersection. 

The project design will soften the hard-scape. Visual interest will be added by various textures and forms of plants and shrubs. Habitat enhancements include the installation of 3 birdhouses for violet green swallows. 

The installation of a Ridgecrest Neighborhood sign will add to community sense of place, pride and identity. Seating options have been incorporated into the project, which is located between to 2 major bus stops.

 Schematic for site layout

Last week, the Ridgecrest Board of Directors selected an art piece to be installed as a horizontal mural. The winners were Ridgecrest artist residents and neighbors, Sara Snedeker (winning design) and Rebecca Rosman, who submitted a joint proposal. The concrete and metal vault situated in the middle of the site will be transformed over the next three weeks with bright colors and a touch of whimsey. The artists chose native plants and Pacific Northwest Tree frogs in various forms of development as their subject, "...because Ridgecrest Neighborhood is also going through different stages of metamorphism." 



Patty Hale, Project Coordinator, invites neighbors to get involved in this great "Place Making" opportunity.  There will be a planting party scheduled for later in the month or the first part of November. "Not only will we be putting plants in the ground, but will also be spreading top soil, gravel, river rock, mulch and more."

Updated 10-16-2013 5:04pm

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October Shoreline Caucus meeting cancelled


The Shoreline Caucus has cancelled its October 17, 2013 meeting but hopes to schedule a meeting in November.

Let Ginny Scantlebury know if you have a topic you might be interested in for that meeting.


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Shoreline Neighborhood Mini-grant brings wellness programs and adult exercise equipment to Hillwood neighborhood

Monday, October 14, 2013


City Manager Julie Underwood and City Council Member
Doris McConnell wield the scissors at ribbon cutting


A Shoreline Neighborhood Mini-Grant with three partners has brought wellness programs and outdoor adult exercise equipment to Hillwood neighborhood. Hillwood Community Network, Calvin Presbyterian Church and Mud Puddle Fitness joined forces to accomplish this work.

There are now three pieces of brightly colored adult exercise equipment available for public use in Hillwood Park, 19001 3rd Avenue NW, Shoreline 98177.

Rob Beem of Shoreline Human Services and City Council Member
Doris McConnell try the two-seated leg lift.

A two seat leg press trainer, a two-sided rotator, and a self-weighted rower are positioned adjacent to children's play equipment and ready for adult use.

"We hope that parents watching their children at play will get some exercise too.  Plus the new equipment is located right next to the Einstein Middle School track where neighbors often walk or run. This provides exercise opportunities for all ages and all fitness levels", said Ann Erickson, chair of Hillwood Community Network.

Self-weighted rower decked out in balloons.

A dedication for this new equipment was held September 27 at the conclusion of the Falls Prevention Workshop, the first of several wellness events for the Hillwood neighborhood. City Council member Doris McConnell and City Manager Julie Underwood were guest speakers.

Other wellness programs planned include a Personal Safety and Property Security Workshop, Friday, October 25, from 1 to 3pm. Guest speakers Deputy Steven Perry, Shoreline Police, and Melanie Granfors, Shoreline Fire, will give safety and emergency training. Admission is free and all Shoreline residents are welcome.
Kathi Bonello of Calvin Presbyterian Church on the rotator.

Meaningful Movie Nights will show HBO’s  “The Weight of the Nation” a four-part documentary series, featuring case studies and interviews with leading experts which spotlights the facts and myths of this urgent public health issue. They will be followed by a discussion session led by Lisa Steubing of Mud Puddle Fitness.

This series of four films will be shown on Thursday nights. The first film was aired on October 10; the remaining three will be October 24, and November 7 and 21 from 7pm to 8:30pm in the Fireside Room at Calvin Presbyterian Church, 18826 3rd Avenue NW.  

Admission is free and all Shoreline residents are welcome.



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Sample Ballot: County and Port issues

By Evan Smith

Here are King County and Port of Seattle measures and candidates that will appear on our ballots for the Nov. 5 general election.

Measures appear as they will appear on the ballot. Candidates appear in the order they will appear on the ballot.


KING COUNTY

King County Charter Amendment No. 1
County Department of Public Defense

Shall the King County Charter be amended to create an appointed office of county public defender, a department of public defense, and a public defense advisory board, and require the executive to consult with the county public defender on the executive’s bargaining with employees of the department of public defense?

Yes __
No ___

King County Proposition No. 1
Medic One – Emergency Medical Services Renewal of Existing Levy

The King County Council passed Ordinance No. 17598 concerning funding for the county-wide Medic One emergency medical services system. This proposition would replace an expiring levy to continue funding of Medic One emergency medical services. It would authorize King County to impose regular property tax levies of $0.335 or less per thousand dollars of assessed valuation for each of six consecutive years, with collection beginning in 2014, as provided in King County Ordinance No. 17598. Should this proposition be:

Approved __
Rejected ___

King County Executive
  • Dow Constantine
  • Alan E. Lobdell

King County Sheriff
  • John Urquhart

Metropolitan King County Council District No. 1, short and full term
  • Rod Dembowski
  • Naomi Wilson


COURT OF APPEALS, DIVISION NO. 1, DISTRICT NO. 1
Judge Position No. 3, unexpired 2-year term
  • James R. Verellen


PORT OF SEATTLE
Commissioner Position No. 1
  • Pete Lewis
  • John Creighton

Commissioner Position No. 2, unexpired 2-year term
  • Courtney Gregoire
  • John Naubert

Commissioner Position No. 3, short and full term
  • Stephanie Bowman
  • Michael Wolfe

Commissioner Position No. 4
  • Richard Pope
  • Tom Albro


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Shorecrest Shorewood girls soccer game to air Thursday night

This Thursday, the Live Video Production Club of Shorecrest and Shorewood will televise the rematch of the two schools' girls soccer game from September 17, which the T-Birds won,  2-1.  The game will air live at 7:30pm on Comcast Channel 26.  The game will also be streamed live

Zoe Vincini's goal with four minutes remaining in the second overtime handed Shorecrest their only loss of the season (going into the Scots' home game Tuesday against Marysville-Getchell).  

SC student body president Ben Pedigo will join Frank Workman on the call of the game.

Anxhelos Pere, from Shorewood's Rotary Cup-winning football team, will be the halftime guest.

Revised 10:12pm

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WeatherWatcher: Weekly Weather, More Sunshine on the Way

  • Forecast
  • Last week's data:
Forecast - I hope you are a fan of morning fog and afternoon sunshine. We have a strong ridge of high pressure that is dominating the region. All forecasts I've looked at and follow seem to agree that this sun is likely to last for the next 7-10 days. Later this week we may see a high temperature reach near 70°F. In general though we're looking at the mid 50's to mid 60's on most days for high temperatures. The ridge of high pressure may break down a little bit from time to time to allow some clouds to move through but I don't think we'll see another moderate weather event until about a week before Halloween.

Last weeks data:
High temperature: 70.2°F (Sunday)
Low temperature: 38.7°F (Wednesday)
Rainiest day: 0.12 inches (Monday)
Total rainfall: 0.20 inches
Warmest day: 55.8°F (Sunday)
Coldest day: 46.4°F (Wednesday)
Average temperature: 50.9°F (0.5°F colder than average)
Station historic average temperature for last week: 51.4°F

Average Daily Temperature October 2013
Graphic by Carl Dinse

Graphic by Carl Dinse

Warmest and coldest days are based on average temperature of the entire day, starting at midnight. All other averages are based on the whole week, starting Saturday morning at midnight. All weather data unless otherwise noted is sourced from Carl's weather station located in the Echo Lake neighborhood of Shoreline, Washington. For up to the minute weather conditions and historic data, as well as links to weather information and resources, check out my page.

Follow me on Twitter: @SWeatherWatcher for any updates on weather events approaching our area.


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Annual Chamber dinner and auction Nov 16 - Cirque du Shoreline



Don't miss the chance to help the Chamber support our local businesses, help our local students attend college, have lots of fun, a fabulous dinner and purchase some amazing Auction items.

Join us on Saturday, Nov. 16, 5:30pm, for the Annual Auction and Dinner at the Shoreline Center. The theme this year is "Cirque du Shoreline" so come in your favorite circus costume or casual attire to this fun event! MC for the evening will again be Brandi Kruse, KIRO 97.3 radio reporter. Tom DiNardo, founder of DiNardo / Lord Auctioneers, will be auctioneer this year. It promises to be an entertaining evening.

Prices for this auction will remain the same as last year so be sure to contact the Chamber to reserve your table or seats today. Individual tickets are only $50.00, and a corporate table for 8 is only $350.00 - buy 7 and get 1 FREE! This event provides support for the Dollars for Scholars program for local graduating seniors and Chamber operating funds. This year's scholarships were awarded on June 5 to 12 local graduating seniors. 

The Chamber is always in need of more volunteers for this event, "even if you only have a few spare hours to help out we could use help now with planning the auction."  Auction donations are already being collected, both large and small, along with opportunities for sponsorship.  Call auction chair, Diana Stephens, or Sharon at the office with any questions about donating, volunteering or attending this event 206-361-2260 or email. Register on-line for your seat or table.


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Shoreline Detective Cary Coblantz honored on Washington's Most Wanted

From left, Host David Rose, Deputy Coblantz
and Sheriff John Urquhart


Shoreline Police Officer Cary Coblantz, a Detective in the burglary / larceny unit, and King County Officer of the Month,
 was recently honored on Q13's Washington's Most Wanted.


By David Rose, Host of Washington's Most Wanted

King County Sheriff’s detective Cary Coblantz was honored for his dedication and work catching a dangerous Washington’s Most Wanted fugitive.

It wasn’t a viewer tip that helped catch Mallory “Bugs” Gholson, it was the sharp eyes of Coblantz.

“It was a Saturday morning, afternoon, I was working the uniform patrol in Shoreline and I was looking for a different domestic violence suspect who might be staying at the Shoreline Motel. While I was doing an area check looking for that person, I came across a vehicle that was associated with Mallory,” Coblantz said.

Gholson has a history of assault, burglary and drugs and was wanted for a new case by Seattle officer Randy Maxwell.

“Officer Maxwell is a good friend of mine, and a superstar for the Seattle Police Department. We work hand in hand and we do fugitive apprehension together for the most part when bad guys cross jurisdictional lines.”

Gholson is known for leaving a wake of victims behind – and he didn’t want to come out of the motel room.

“Based on his history, we did try the easy route of him giving him up. He chose not to, barricaded himself. We initiated a SWAT team call-out. After about a half hour of negotiations, we were able to talk him out and took him into custody without incident,” Coblantz said.

“Well, first of all, I wasn’t the least bit surprised. I’ve known Cary a long time. I know the kind of cases he puts together. He’s a dogged detective and that’s why he does such a good job,” Sheriff John Urquhart said.

Urquhart said he wishes he had a 100 detectives like Coblantz.
“Cary works with other agencies. You’ve heard him talk about that. The Seattle Police Department, the Edmonds Police Department — that’s real teamwork. He’s not looking for all the credit. He’s trying to help them make their cases as well and that’s tremendous.”

“Guys like that, it’s always important for me try to do everything I can to catch them and not just catch them, but present a good case and hold them accountable,” Coblantz said.

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New PTA for parents of Special Needs children

Shoreline/Lake Forest Parents form Special Needs Parent Teacher Association

The first weeks of school are filled with new clothes, new teachers, and this year, a new Parent/Teacher Association in the Shoreline School District. Meeting in the Shoreline PTA Council Chambers at the Shoreline Center in mid-September, 48 parents, teachers and advocates formed a Special Needs PTSA in Shoreline.

“There is a palpable desire for parents of children with special needs to connect,” said President Katie Rohs. “Parents are great resources for each other to learn how to best advocate for their children’s education plans. Every district surrounding Shoreline has a special needs parent group of some kind. It’s time the parents in Shoreline organize and work together for our children’s future.”

The mission of the Special Needs PTSA is to foster communication and collaboration among parents, students, teachers, schools and the community to support students with special needs.

The PTSA will host its kickoff celebration Wednesday, October 16, at 6:30 pm in the Shoreline Room at the Shoreline Center, featuring guest speaker Attorney Elizabeth Caldwell, U. S. Department of Education

For more information, contact: Katie Rohs, President, 206-9448-9123

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Lake Forest Park staff prepare for an earthquake

Mayor Mary Jane Goss proclaimed October Emergency Preparedness Month for Lake Forest Park. 

City staff will be participating in the 2013 ShakeOut earthquake drill, which will take place on Thursday, October 17, 2013 at 10:17am. 

Mayor Goss encourages individuals, companies, and governmental agencies to review their emergency preparedness plans, information, and emergency kits, in order to be prepared during an emergency.


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Shorecrest swimmers at home Tuesday after loss to Jackson; Shorewood at Mariner after victories over Edmonds-Woodway and Lynnwood


The Shorecrest girls’ swimming and diving team plays host to Meadowdale Tuesday after a loss to Jackson Oct. 8, and Shorewood meets Mariner at Kamiak High School in Mukilteo after a double-dual victory over Edmonds-Woodway and Lynnwood.

Shorecrest and Meadowdale meet at 3:30pm Tuesday at Shoreline Pool, and Shorewood meets Mariner at 3:15 at Kamiak.

Girls’ Swimming, Tuesday, Oct. 8
At Shoreline Pool
Jackson 105, Shorecrest 70

200-yard medley relay—Jackson, 1:58.14
200 freestyle—Limargo, J, 2:12.22
200 individual medley—Stamey, J, 2:23.68
50 free -- Pressler, J, 26.36
Diving—Alonso, J, 109.80
100 butterfly —Stamey, J, 1:04.89
100 free —Pressler, J, 56.23
500 free —Limberg, J, 5:37.03
200 free relay —Jackson, 1:50.64
100 backstroke —Emily Strathy, SC, 1:07.27
100 breaststroke —Limberg, J, 1:08.56
400 free relay —Shorecrest (Selina Deiparine, Margo Coxon, Mara Childs, Emily Strathy) 4:14.43.
At Lynnwood Pool

Shorewood 104, Edmonds-Woodway 66
Meadowdale 116, Lynnwood 51

200 medley relay—Shorewood (Blomso, Garrison, Tardiff, Norberg) 1:58.18
200 free—Keane, M, 1:57.28
200 individual medley—Brock, EW, 2:14.55
50 free —Dickens, EW, 25.33
100 butterfly —Brock, EW, 1:03.18
100 free —Dickens, EW, 55.79
500 free —Keane, M, 5:28.09
200 free relay —Meadowdale, 1:48.73
100 back —Nicola Gerbino, SW, 1:08.45
100 breast —Christina Garrison, SW, 1:11.99
400 free relay —Edmonds-Woodway, 3:57.10.


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Join the McKinnon Creek Pedestrian Trail project this Saturday




The construction of the McKinnon Creek Pedestrian Trail project will begin this Saturday, October 19th from 9:30am—3:00pm.

The City has contracted with Volunteers for Outdoor Washington (VOW) to help construct the trail. VOW’s leader, Annik Wolfe, is preparing for your energy and participation to help make this a great project.

If you cannot make it this Saturday, not to worry! VOW will be out in full force each Saturday from 9:30am-3:00pm through December 14, 2013. Sign up directly on VOW’s website for work party dates of your choice.

WHAT TO BRING: a lunch, water and gloves. Please wear sturdy shoes, long sleeves and pants. *Don’t forget your RAIN GEAR. We will work rain or shine.* No previous trail building knowledge or experience is required. Refreshments will be provided as supplies last!

DIRECTIONS/PARKING: There is minimal parking on site; therefore, please plan to be dropped off, carpool or park in the City Hall parking lots and walk to the project location. Directions: from City Hall, walk up Ballinger Way NE, make a right at NE 184th St, walk to the end of the street and you will see a sign for where the project begins.

QUESTIONS? Work party questions can be directed to Annik Wolfe with VOW 206-368-2688 or to Lauren at City Hall 206-368-5440.


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Haunted Trails at Bastyr in Kenmore starts Friday

You never know who you'll meet on the Haunted Trails

Halloween festivities at Bastyr run Fridays and Saturdays, Oct. 18-19 and 25–26

Bastyr University's annual “Haunted Trails” event is returning for another year of spooky fun! Hosted in the forest behind Bastyr University's Kenmore campus for two consecutive Fridays and Saturdays (Oct. 18-19 and 25-26), the event, now in its 15th year, is one of the Eastside’s longest-running and biggest fright fests. It includes enjoyable activities for teenagers and adults, as well as trick-or-treating and a carnival for younger children – and is all for a good cause, as proceeds benefit student study-abroad programs.

Events for ages 8 and older (7-11pm): 
  1. Haunted Trails: Complete with ghosts, ghouls and goblins, the Haunted Trails tour through the forest offers frights and delights around every corner. Enter if you dare!
  2. Hades Labyrinth: With ghouls and monsters haunting all who enter, participants must find their way through a 2,400-square-foot maze of misty tunnels or be lost forever in the underworld.
  3. Cemetery Hill: Is there anything creepier than a foggy cemetery at night? Yes — a foggy cemetery at night, filled with the living dead!
  4. Circus of Horrors: Evil clowns make for a nightmarish experience under the big top.
  5. Mummy’s Tomb: It’s cool to see mummies of the past … until they arise.

Cost: $20 per person for all five events. Major credit cards accepted. Tickets are available for purchase at the event or online . Ticket sales and check-in begin at 6:30 pm. The event is rain or shine and all ticket sales are final.

Please note: A limited number of tickets are sold each night. Tickets are sold online and at the event, and if tickets are sold out online they may still be purchased at the event. Online buyers are encouraged to check in at the event by 8pm to reserve their space in the event line. The second weekend of Haunted Trails (Oct. 25-26) promises to get very busy and tickets can sell out as early as 8:45pm. Visitors are advised to come the first weekend, Oct. 18-19, when lines are shorter.

Events for children ages 7 and younger (5-9 p.m.):
  1. The Great Pumpkin’s Trick-or-Treating Adventure: Bring the kids for trick-or-treating at Bastyr University’s Garden. Take pictures of the little ones as they receive candy from some of their favorite characters. Cost is $5 per child. Cash only. (Runs 5-6:45pm)
  2. Children’s Carnival: Entertain the younger children with various games and indoor events just for them. Cost is dependent on activities. Cash only. (Runs 5:30-9pm)

Food, gags and more:
  1. Spook and Scare Shop: Buy glow sticks, glow wands, glow masks, glow Frisbees, monster balloons and more at this spook-and-scare store.
  2. Food and drinks: Food and drinks are available for purchase at the event and in Bastyr University’s Award-Winning Dining Commons.
  3. Parking: Free event parking is available on the Bastyr University campus, 14500 Juanita Drive N.E., Kenmore, WA 98028.

For more information: Contact the Bastyr University Haunted Trails Hotline at 425-602-3303, email  or visit the webpage. You can also follow us on Twitter (@hauntedtrailsbu) and like us on Facebook.

ABOUT HAUNTED TRAILS

Created in 1998, Bastyr University's Haunted Trails has grown in size and popularity each year. It now attracts thousands of guests from throughout the greater-Seattle area. All proceeds support the University's study abroad programs, including the Department of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine's annual study trip to China. The fundraiser is run entirely by dedicated volunteer teams of Bastyr University students, faculty and staff.

ABOUT BASTYR UNIVERSITY

As the largest accredited university for natural health arts and sciences in the U.S., Bastyr’s campus located near Seattle, Washington, offers more than 17 degree and certificate programs in fields such as naturopathic medicine, acupuncture and Oriental medicine, and whole-food nutrition.


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Sample Ballot: Statewide measures

Sunday, October 13, 2013


By Evan Smith

Here are statewide measures that will appear on our ballots for the Nov. 5, 2013 general election. Measures appear as they will appear on the ballot.

The two initiatives to the legislature are on the ballot because the Legislature did not act on them. 

Initiatives to the Legislature

Initiative Measure No. 517

Initiative Measure No. 517 concerns initiative and referendum measures. This measure would set penalties for interfering with or retaliating against signature gatherers and petition-signers; require that all measures receiving sufficient signatures appear on the ballot; and extend time for gathering initiative petition signatures. Should this measure be enacted into law?

YES __
NO ___

Initiative Measure No. 522

Initiative Measure No. 522 concerns labeling of genetically-engineered foods. This measure would require most raw agricultural commodities, processed foods, and seeds and seed stocks, if produced using genetic engineering, as defined, to be labeled as genetically engineered when offered for retail sale. Should this measure be enacted into law?

YES __
NO ___

Advisory Votes

Advisory Vote No. 3 Substitute Senate Bill 5444

The legislature eliminated, without a vote of the people, a leasehold excise tax credit for taxpayers who lease publicly-owned property, costing approximately $2,000,000 in the first ten years, for government spending. This tax increase should be:

REPEALED ____
MAINTAINED __

Advisory Vote No. 4 Senate Bill 5627

The legislature imposed, without a vote of the people, an aircraft excise tax on commuter air carriers in lieu of property tax, costing approximately $500,000 in its first ten years, for government spending. This tax increase should be:

REPEALED _____
MAINTAINED __

Advisory Vote No. 5 Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1846

The legislature extended, without a vote of the people, the insurance premium tax to some insurance for pediatric oral services, costing an amount that cannot currently be estimated, for government spending. This tax increase should be:

REPEALED _____
MAINTAINED __

Advisory Vote No. 6 Second Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 1971

The legislature eliminated, without a vote of the people, a retail sales tax exemption for certain telephone and telecommunications services, costing approximately $397,000,000 in the first ten years, for government spending. This tax increase should be:

REPEALED _____
MAINTAINED __

Advisory Vote No. 7 Engrossed House Bill 2075

The legislature extended, without a vote of the people, estate tax on certain property transfers and increased rates for estates over $4,000,000, costing approximately $478,000,000 in the first ten years, for government spending. This tax increase should be:

REPEALED ____
MAINTAINED __


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Shoreline Art Walk next Saturday Oct 19

Who lives in the Toadstool House?
They're home at night, because the lights are on.
Shoreline Art Walk, Saturday, October 19, 10am

Walk around the city to view some of the wonderful outdoor public art on display on the trails, in the parks and in some surprising places in Shoreline. Walk leader Mary Jo Gerst will lead the group in this approximately 4 mile walk that will last about 2 hours. 

Meet at: Shoreline City Hall Court Yard, 17500 Midvale Ave. N.

This will be the last walk in 2013 for the Shoreline Walks Community Walking Program. Walks will start up again in early spring 2014.  More information can be found here or call Marianne Johnson, Recreation Assistant II at 206-801-2638.


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Proposed County charter amendment on November ballot would create County Department of Public Defense

By Evan Smith


Voters in Shorecrest, Lake Forest Park and the rest of King County will decide in the Nov 5, 2013 general election on an amendment to the County charter that would create a county department of public defense.

The proposed amendment is a response to a court order that public defenders, who traditionally have been employees of private organizations, need to be treated as county employees.

Here’s material on the amendment that will appear in voters’ pamphlets that will arrive in a few days:

King County
Simple Majority (King County Charter Section 800)

King County
Charter Amendment No. 1
County Department of Public Defense

Shall the King County Charter be amended to create an appointed office of county public defender, a department of public defense, and a public defense advisory board, and require the executive to consult with the county public defender on the executive’s bargaining with employees of the department of public defense?

Yes __

No  __

EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

This proposed amendment to the King County Charter concerns the creation of a county department of public defense within the county’s executive branch. Historically public defense counsel has been provided by non-profit corporations who provided the services to clients through contracts paid by King County. This charter amendment is part of a process of moving the contractors to the county as county employees. This move follows a class action lawsuit in which the court ruled that the nonprofit employees were legally entitled to certain county benefits.

Under the proposed charter amendment, the department of public defense would be an executive branch department and would be responsible for providing counsel and representation to indigent individuals to the extent required under the State and Federal Constitutions. The department would also be responsible for fostering and promoting system improvements, efficiencies, access to justice, and equity in the criminal justice system. 

The department would be managed by the county public defender, who would be appointed by the county executive from a list of candidates recommended by the public defense advisory board (described below). The executive’s appointment would be subject to confirmation by the county council. The county public defender would serve a four-year term and would be eligible for re-appointment to additional terms.

The proposed charter amendment would also establish a public defense advisory board to review, advise and report on the department and on matters of equity and social justice.  Membership on the board and the process for appointment would be prescribed by the county council by ordinance.

Statement For

This amendment is necessary to implement changes to the King County public defense structure resulting from a recent settlement agreement in a class action lawsuit. King County historically has contracted with private, non-profit corporations for the provision of public defense services. Because these corporations were viewed as independent contractors, their employees did not receive county benefits.  As a result of the settlement, public defenders became county employees July 1, 2013, requiring restructuring of the public defense system.

A properly functioning and independent public defense system is paramount to the fundamental principles of our justice system. Public defenders perform a vital role within the justice system by advocating for the rights of all citizens regardless of income. They represent individuals who cannot afford to pay for their own lawyer, primarily in criminal, civil commitment, and termination of parental rights cases. This amendment protects the strengths of our nationally recognized public defense system while meeting the requirements of the Court settlement. 

Please vote yes to give King County’s Public Defender the strong, independent voice needed to continue our tradition of excellence and independence in protecting the civil liberties of the most vulnerable residents of King County.

Statement submitted by: Christie Hedman, Larry Gossett and Jacqueline McMurtrie publicdefense2013@gmail.com
Statement Against

No statement submitted.

Statements in favor of and in opposition to a ballot measure are submitted by committees appointed by the jurisdiction. No persons came forward to serve on the committee and to write a statement in opposition. If you would like to be involved with a committee in the future please contact the jurisdiction.

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Letter to the Editor: My intent was to raise questions

To the Editor:


My response to Linda Holman’s SAN letter about my Facebook ads and blog posts:

I did not intend my posts about John Resha and Hilda Thompson to be personal attacks. My intent was to raise questions that I haven’t heard elsewhere.

With regards to John Resha, he has conflicts of interests, in my opinion, even if a lawyer parses it otherwise. If you’re nearly 50 percent funded by unions, and you are negotiating with a union, who will you represent? As principal advisor to King County Council on LFP impacting issues, how will he represent both? His position has influences on LFP that Alan Kiest's do not.

With regards to Hilda Thompson, I’m questioning her empty resume and ability to represent the challenges of most LFP adults. My question about putting a child through our schools was one of 14 questions I think voters should ask (of course you don't need to have children to be an effective council member).

I asked Hilda to comment on my post, and she asked a sitting Council member to tell me to stop. Is this how she’ll deal with tough issues?

Linda is concerned that if we don’t put this 22 year old on our Council, young people will move away. I’m not worried.

If Lake Forest Park had its own dedicated media, I would be less concerned about lack of voter exposure to all points of view. My posts are a way to give voters something to consider.

This is an interview for an important position. Tough questions should be asked.
Let the people read the posts and decide for themselves.

Jon Friesch
Lake Forest Park


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Bright lights at Paramount will save historic theatre $43,000 per year

Chandelier at Paramount after LED retrofit
Photo courtesy Seattle City Light


The Paramount Theater opened its Broadway season October 9, 2013 under new bright lights that will reduce the historic theater’s energy consumption enough to save $43,000 each year.

The $438,000 project replaced about 4,800 lights at the Paramount, including its massive chandeliers, with energy efficient LEDs, compact fluorescent lamps and T-8 tube lighting. Seattle City Light supported the project with $136,000 in energy efficiency incentives.

“When you consider the number of bulbs in this theatre and what it takes to simply keep them all in good working order, this project is just good dollars and sense,” Seattle Theater Group Executive Director Josh LaBelle said. “Part of being a good steward of these historic venues, also means being a good environmental citizen, and this lighting project helps us accomplish such in great measure.”

House lighting as well as stage lighting was replaced with dimmable lights. Workers built catwalks high above the theatre floor to access the lights in and near the ceiling. 

Lori Moen and Josh LaBelle of the Paramount

This is the second lighting upgrade City Light has helped the Paramount complete. In 2009, utility incentives supported a retrofit of the Paramount’s signature neon sign. In both projects, the upgrades were made while preserving the historical character of the theater.

“The Paramount Theater demonstrates how energy efficient lighting can meet the needs of the most demanding professionals and audience members, while lowering operating costs,” Conservation Resources Director Glenn Atwood said. “We are excited to partner with the Paramount in another act in our long-running conservation program, in which helping our customers use electricity more efficiently provides the first-choice energy resource for the future.”

City Light offers numerous incentives for businesses and homeowners to increase their energy efficiency. Learn more about them here.


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Sunset School Park dedication Saturday, Oct 19


Join the City of Shoreline, the Shoreline School District, the Friends of Sunset School Park, and your fellow neighbors in dedicating Sunset School Park. In January, the old school buildings on the site were demolished and the City began making $205,000 worth of improvements. Improvements included grading the site, adding top soil, installing irrigation, and seeding.


Sunset School Park Dedication, Saturday, October 19, 2013, 1pm, 17800 10th Ave NW, Shoreline 98177 


The site has been blocked off to allow the grass time to take root. In addition, new pathways and accessible ramps have been constructed, parking stalls restriped, overgrown vegetation
removed, play equipment repaired, and new entry signage installed. Additional work continues this fall with the construction of a community garden.

In November, the City will find out if it has received a grant to add play equipment for younger children, construct a new basketball court, make additional field improvements, and add a portable restroom enclosure.

Sunset Elementary School closed in 2007 and the community, led by the Friends of Sunset Park, have worked for several years to bring their vision of a park on the site a reality.




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